Orders security chiefs to implement earlier directive for lasting peace Tasks Alia to convene reconciliation meeting among warring factions to end bloodshed Pope Leo XIV, northern CAN condemn massacre, pray for victims, sue for peace
US President expresses hope of quick return to normalcy 40,000 tourists stranded in Israel as missiles fly, planes grounded
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
President Donald Trump vetoed an Israeli plan in recent days to kill Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, two US officials told Reuters yesterday.
The officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said top US officials have been in constant communications with Israeli officials in the days since Israel launched a massive attack on Iran in a bid to halt its nuclear programme.
"Have the Iranians killed an American yet? No. Until they do, we're not even talking about going after the political leadership," said one of the sources, a senior U.S. administration official.
They said the Israelis reported that they had an opportunity to kill the top Iranian leader, but Trump waved them off of the plan.
The officials would not say whether Trump himself delivered the message. But Trump has been in frequent communications with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
When asked about the Reuters report, Netanyahu, in an interview on Sunday with Fox News Channel's "Special Report With Bret Baier," said: "There's so many false reports of conversations that never happened, and I'm not going to get into that."
"But I can tell you, I think that
we do what we need to do, we'll do what we need to do. And I think the United States knows what is good for the United States," Netanyahu said.
Trump has been holding out hope for a resumption of US-Iranian negotiations over Tehran's nuclear programme. Talks that had been scheduled for Sunday in Oman were canceled as a result of the strikes.
Trump told Reuters on Friday that "we knew everything" about the Israeli strikes.
Also, despite evidence that the conflict between Israel and Iran is escalating, Trump has expressed optimism that peace would come soon and cited the possibility that Russia's Vladimir Putin could help.
In a social media post, Trump said there were many unspecified meetings about the issue happening and encouraged the two countries to make a deal. And in an interview with ABC News, he said he was open to Putin, whose forces invaded Ukraine and who has resisted Trump's attempts to broker a ceasefire with Kyiv, serving as a mediator.
Israel and Iran launched fresh attacks on each other overnight into Sunday, killing scores.
"Iran and Israel should make a deal, and will make a deal," Trump wrote on his Truth Social site. "We will have peace, soon, between Israel and Iran! Many calls and meetings
are now taking place," he added.
Trump did not offer any details about the meetings or evidence of progress toward peace. His assertion contradicted comments by Prime Minister, Netanyahu, who said on Saturday that Israel's campaign against Iran would intensify.
Trump told ABC News that Iran wanted to make a deal and indicated something like the Israel strikes would accelerate that. "Something like this had to happen because I think even from both sides, but something like this had to happen. They want to talk, and they will be talking," Trump said.
The United States has engaged in talks with Iran about its nuclear
TINUBU: BENUE KILLINGS DEPRESSING, WE MUST NOT ALLOW THIS TO CONTINUE, ENOUGH IS ENOUGH
warring factions for lasting peace.
Pope Leo XIV, yesterday, expressed deep sorrow at the murderous attack on Benue State, which resulted in the massacre of about 200 persons. The pope spoke during Mass at the Vatican. He offered solemn prayers for the deceased and Nigeria, in general.
Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) called on Tinubu to declare war on criminal elements unleashing mayhem on communities in Benue State and other states in the region.
Similarly, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; Deputy Governor of Benue State, Sam Ode; former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi; and Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) condemned the cold-blooded killings as shocking.
Benue State Youths converged at Wurukum Roundabout early yesterday morning in protest against the unremitting carnage in the state by suspected Fulani herdsmen. They were later tear-gased by policemen deployed to the area.
The attacks in Benue State occurred at night between June 13 and 14 in the town of Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area.
THISDAY gathered that most of the victims were internally displaced persons receiving care at a hospital operated by a local Catholic mission.
Tinubu, in a statement by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, renewed his order in the wake of the latest round of attacks, which had led to the death of many people.
On the president's directive, intelligence chiefs, the police, and the military have arrived the state to direct security operations and restore sanity.
Tinubu Alia to convene reconciliation meetings and dialogue among the warring parties to end the bloodshed and bring lasting peace and harmonious co-existence between herders and the indigenous communities.
Describing the killings as inhuman and anti-progress, the president called on political leaders and community leaders in conflict areas to stop fuelling the crisis through unguarded utterances that could further inflame tensions. He said leaders should rein in those who were out to cause provocations and ignite reprisal attacks.
The statement quoted Tinubu as saying, "The latest news of wanton killings in Benue State is very depressing. We must not allow this bloodletting to continue unabated. Enough is now enough.
"I have directed the security agencies to act decisively and arrest perpetrators of these evil acts on all sides of the conflict and prosecute them.
"Political and community leaders in Benue State must act responsibly and avoid inflammatory utterances that could further increase tensions and killings.”
The president said, "This is the time for Governor Alia to act as a statesman and immediately lead the process of dialogue and reconciliation that will bring peace to Benue.
“Our people must live in peace, and it is possible when leaders across the divides work together in harmony and differences are identified and addressed with fairness, openness and justice."
Pope Leo XIV expressed deep sorrow at the recent attack on Benue, during Mass at the Vatican, offering prayers for the deceased and Nigeria, in general.
Describing the killings as a “terrible massacre” carried out with “extreme cruelty,” the pope called for an end to the cycle of violence.
He said, “A terrible massacre took place, in which about 200 people were killed, with extreme cruelty, most of whom were internally displaced, hospitalised by the local Catholic mission.”
Visibly moved during his remarks at the Vatican, the pope called for an end to the ongoing cycle of violence plaguing Nigeria, a country he referred to as “beloved” but “so affected by various forms of violence”.
He stated, “I pray that security, justice and peace prevail in Nigeria, a beloved country, so affected by various forms of violence. And I pray, in particular, for the rural Christian communities of Benue State, which have been incessantly victims of violence.”
The pope’s statement added to the growing international condemnation of the persistent violence in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, a region often wracked by sectarian and communal conflict.
The pope urged the global community not to forget those suffering in silence. He called on the Nigerian authorities to uphold the safety and dignity of all citizens.
CAN to Tinubu: Declare Total War on Criminals Terrorising Benue, Borno, Others
Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) called on Tinubu to declare war on criminal elements terrorising communities in Benue State.
CAN also urged the government to stop the resurgence of the activities of Boko Haram terrorists in Borno State.
The association, in a statement yesterday in Kaduna, urged the president to urgently take decisive action to end the bloodshed and destructions.
The statement, signed by Secretary General of Northern CAN, Sunday Oibe, condemned Saturday's killings in Benue communities, declaring that the persistent attacks by suspected herdsmen are unacceptable.
The association expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in Benue, Borno, and other parts of the country.
Oibe stated that the violent activities perpetrated by suspected herdsmen and Boko Haram terrorists had made life increasingly unbearable for innocent
citizens.
The statement said, "On Saturday, June 13, 2025, we received distressing reports of attacks by suspected herdsmen in Yelewata and Daudu communities in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.
"Available information indicated that over 100 people were killed in the attacks, which occurred less than 48 hours after the tragic killing of 25 people in Mtswenem and Akondotyough Bawa communities in Makurdi LGA
"Reports indicated that many internally displaced persons (IDPs) and farmers were killed, with some reportedly burnt alive in makeshift shelters.
"The gunmen, armed with sophisticated weapons, were said to have launched the attack around midnight and operated for over two hours.
"Similarly, last week in Borno State, one person was killed, while Rev. Fr. Daniel Afina, a Catholic priest and project coordinator of a Christian NGO, along with nine others, were abducted by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists on the Gwoza-Limankara Road as they were ambushed while returning from Mubi in Adamawa State."
Oibe lamented that the security situation appeared to be worsening at a time when it seemed that the criminal elements had been contained by security agencies.
He said in the statement, "We urgently call on the federal government to take decisive and comprehensive action to stop the killings and restore peace and security.
"President Bola Tinubu’s administration has made initial progress in curbing these violent activities. However, these gains must be sustained and expanded.
"We urge the president to urgently declare total war against these criminals and direct security agencies to neutralise the threat within a clear and enforceable time frame.
"Should the situation prove beyond the capacity of Nigeria’s security forces, the government should seek international assistance to halt the killings and abductions.
"The killings are unacceptable, even within the animal kingdom. This brutality is rare, yet, in Nigeria, innocent lives are lost senselessly and repeatedly."
Deputy Governor of Benue State, Sam Ode, who visited the scene of the bloodshed on the directives of the governor, said the governor was not resting on his oars in efforts to ensure the state experienced peace.
Ode stated, "Governor Hyacinth Alia acknowledges and shares in the pains and grief caused by the this attacks on the community by criminal elements suspected to be armed herdsmen.
“The state government is consistently engaging with federal security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders, and relevant stakeholders to strengthen security interventions and provide
lasting solutions to these persistent attacks.
"We assure citizens that more tactical teams have started arriving to Benue from the federal government and additional security deployments are being arranged for vulnerable areas.
"Response squad teams are also deployed and will be in Benue from Sunday, strategic community dialogues are ongoing to enhance active intelligence sharing.”
Ode added, “The state’s joint operations units are also being strengthened, and will not relent in its utmost commitment to defending the lives and properties of all residents.
“In the spirit of peace and unity, we call on religious, traditional, and political leaders across the state to sensitise and guide the youths under their influence against unlawful gatherings or confrontations that may spiral out of control.
“We appeal to the public to make use of official communication channels to report any suspicious activities and to stay informed through credible sources.
“Benue State remains committed to justice, peace, and security for all.”
Atiku Shocked over Fresh Benue Attacks
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar expressed shock and anguish at the killings in Benue State.
Atiku called on the federal government to move in and ensure that the perpetrators of the heinous crimes were arrested and prosecuted
In a statement, the former vice president lamented that the killers were targeting defenceless Nigerians.
He suggested, “Enhanced security presence in the region, deploying necessary resources, personnel, equipment, and intelligence to guarantee the protection of vulnerable rural areas.”
Atiku stated, “I am deeply anguished and shocked by the devastating news of the fresh attacks in Benue State, where over 100 innocent lives are feared lost.
“These killings, once again targeting defenceless communities, underscores the escalating insecurity crisis facing our nation. Words cannot adequately express the sorrow felt by those left widowed, orphaned, or displaced.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the families and communities who have suffered unimaginable loss. As a nation, we must pause and reflect on the mounting human toll of this senseless violence.
“I urge the federal government and Benue State authorities to launch a prompt, transparent investigation into the attack.
“The identities of the perpetrators must be swiftly uncovered and justice served.”
The former vice president said the federal government should, “Enhance security presence in the region, deploying necessary resources, personnel, equipment, and intelligence to guarantee the protection of vulnerable rural areas.
“Engage affected communities
programme and Trump has told reporters previously that the talks were going well. But another round of discussions scheduled for Sunday in Oman was canceled after the Israeli and Iranian strikes.
Trump said he and Putin had discussed the situation in the Middle East on Saturday in a call that focused more on that conflict than the Russian war in Ukraine. Meanwhile, thousands of tourists in Israel have found their holiday plans upended by the country's conflict with Iran.
through dialogue, traditional leadership, and civil society to restore confidence and foster resilience.
“Accelerate compensation and support effort, including medical aid, trauma counselling, and livelihood restoration for survivors and bereaved families.”
He said, “This assault on innocent Nigerians is not just a local tragedy, it is a national emergency that demands immediate attention and decisive action.
“I call on all Nigerians, regardless of tribe or religion, to unite in condemning this atrocity. We must hold our leaders accountable and insist on sustainable solutions to the violent tragedies claiming lives across the country.
“May God comfort the grieving families, heal our nation, and help us reclaim peace and security for all.”
Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, condemned the Benue killings, describing them as a direct consequence of leadership failure in Nigeria.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, Obi expressed heartbreak over the attacks, which claimed the lives of women, children, soldiers, and displaced persons.
He called for an urgent national response, warning against the growing normalisation of mass killings in the country.
Bi stated, “My heart is heavy as I learn of yet another horrific series of killings in Benue of women, children, soldiers, and displaced persons, all senselessly slain.
“This tragedy has become too common in our national life, and the Benue situation now calls for a national emergency.”
According to the former Anambra State governor, the scale of the killings go beyond isolated violence, but reflects systemic governance failure.
“Over 200 lives have reportedly been extinguished in a single onslaught, homes burnt, families shattered, communities left in ruin. This is not merely violence. It is a failure of leadership, a stain on our collective conscience,” Obi stated.
Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) issued a stern warning to the federal government, urging it to urgently halt the continuous attacks by suspected Fulani herdsmen or risk widespread armed resistance by other ethnic groups in the country.
The rights group described the recent massacre of over 200 persons in Benue State as a crime against humanity and a dangerous escalation that could spiral into nationwide ethnic violence.
HURIWA gave the warning in a press statement issued in Abuja by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, following the bloody attack by herdsmen on the Tiv-speaking Yelewata and Daudu communities
in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. The group said despite prior intelligence from residents about the impending attack, the federal government and security agencies failed to intervene or deploy adequate forces to the area.
HURIWA alleged that attackers stormed the communities from two flanks, overpowered local youths and police operatives, and then proceeded to open fire on defenceless civilians, including IDPs sheltering in market stalls.
HURIWA condemned what it termed the “persistent inaction” of the federal government, describing the security chiefs and the National Security Adviser as grossly incompetent and complicit.
The association warned that should the government fail to act decisively to bring an end to the targeted killings allegedly carried out by armed Fulani insurgents, Nigeria might descend into an unprecedented civil crisis, as ethnic groups facing continued invasions might begin to arm themselves for self-defence.
Benue State Youths converged at Wurukum Roundabout on Sunday morning to protest the killings of innocent people in Benue State by murderous Fulani herdsmen. But they were teargased by policemen deployed to the area.
The protests had been triggered by the gruesome attacks on Yelewata town yesterday by suspected herdsmen, which resulted in the deaths of almost 200 persons, including women and children, as well as the aged.
The protesters demanded action from Governor Hyacinth Alia and the federal government against the terrorists, who were on a rampage across the state.
The protesters had refused to be addressed by Benue State Commissioner of Police, Emenari Ifeanyi, who went personally to the protest venue.
The police commissioner initially sought to address the protesting youths but he was loudly condemned amid angry chants of "CP, Go To Yelewata". And when he eventually addressed them, he was confronted with some questions that he declined to answer, stirring another round of anger. It was also observed that while some military personnel arrived the venue of the protest, the youths continued to press their demands for action from government.
An activist, Comrade Bemgba Iyortyum, wrote on his Facebook page, “I urge the youths to maintain their peaceful and orderly conduct as has been seen in the course of the protest so far, and to stand resolutely by their demands for action from government. "Together we will win this war against the terrorists who seek to wipe us off the face of the earth and take over our land."
Addeh in Abuja and Peter Uzoho in Lagos
Africa's richest man, Aliko Dangote yesterday fulfilled a promise to significantly ‘shakedown’ the downstream petroleum sector, with the company announcing that the 650,000 barrels per day Dangote Petroleum Refinery will commence direct distribution of fuel nationwide from August.
Chairman of the Dangote Group had last week pledged to President Bola Tinubu and Nigerians that there will be a major overhaul of the downstream sector, following the visit of the Nigerian leader to the $20 billion facility located in Lagos.
“Now that the President has visited and he has given us additional energy, we will inform you, you will hear from us soon, and that will be one of the major shakedowns in the entire country. It is not the reduction of price, it will be the total overhaul of the downstream,” he stated.
In a statement, the company stated that effective August 15, 2025, it would begin the distribution of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) commonly known as petrol, and diesel to marketers, petrol dealers, manufacturers, telecoms firms, aviation, and other large users across the country. The company said the arrangement comes with free logistics to boost the distribution network.
To ensure smooth take-off of the
scheme, Dangote Refinery said it had invested in the procurement of 4,000 brand-new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered tankers. It said that this phase of the programme would continue over an extended timeframe.
According to the statement, the refinery is also investing in CNG stations, commonly referred to as daughter booster stations, supported by a fleet of over 100 CNG tankers across the country to ensure seamless product distribution.
"This strategic programme is part of our broader commitment to eliminating logistics costs, enhancing energy efficiency, promoting sustainability, and supporting Nigeria’s economic development. It affirms our dedication
to improving the availability and affordability of fuel, in support of broader efforts to strengthen the economy and improve the wellbeing of all Nigerians.
"Under this initiative, all petrol stations purchasing PMS and diesel from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery will benefit from this enhanced logistics support. Key sectors such as manufacturing, telecommunications, and others will also gain from this transformative initiative, as reduced fuel costs will contribute to lower production costs, reduced inflation, and foster economic growth. Players in these key sectors and others can purchase directly from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery.
Commends FG’s reforms, says economic pains temporary Leemon Ikpea Felicitates Tinubu, Nigerians on 26 Unbroken Years of Democracy
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Prominent businessman and industrialist, Chief Leemon Ikpea, CON, has congratulated President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian people on the occasion of the celebration of 26 unbroken years of democracy in Nigeria.
In a statement yesterday, Ikpea, who is the Founder and Executive Chairman of Lee Engineering Group and Allied Companies Limited, praised the administration’s determination to steer the country through tough but necessary reforms.
Besides, he praised the administration of Tinubu for staying the course in implementing difficult
but necessary policies aimed at repositioning the economy for long-term growth and stability.
He also welcomed the recent strategic changes at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), describing them as a bold move toward sanitising the country’s oil and gas sector and restoring confidence in its operations.
“This Democracy Day, we are not only marking our return to civilian rule, but also a season of courageous decisions and visionary leadership.
President Tinubu has shown that he is willing to make the hard calls needed to reposition Nigeria,” the Esan Chief added. He hailed the resilience of
Nigerians over the years, particularly in navigating the economic challenges that have followed recent reforms, stating that the reforms had begun to yield the expected results.
“This year’s Democracy Day celebration is especially significant as it comes at a time when our country is taking bold steps to redefine its economic trajectory. While the path has not been without pain, I commend President Tinubu and his team for their focus on reforms that are now beginning to yield real and measurable results,” he stressed.
Ikpea acknowledged that the removal of fuel subsidies, exchange rate unification, and other fiscal adjustments initially brought hardship to many
Nigerians. However, he noted that these policy shifts were long overdue and are now creating room for a more transparent, market-driven, and sustainable economy.
N39bn ICC Renovation Contract: CP-PDP Petitions EFCC
Declares contract a rip-off, demands contract details Says renaming complex after president Tinubu will not stop probe
The Conference of Professionals in the Peoples Democratic Party (CPPDP) has petitioned the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) over the N39 billion claimed to have been spent in the renovation of the already functioning International Conference Center (ICC) under the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Nyesom Wike.
The decision to petition the EFCC is
part of the outcome of the CP-PDP’s emergency Governance Policy and Monitoring Review Roundtable in Abuja, yesterday
According to a statement by the chairman of the PDP Professionals, Obinna Nwachukeu, ''After a thorough review by our body of engineers, architects, quantity and quality control experts, the CP-PDP declares the N39 billion renovation contract as questionable and apparent case of Advanced Treasury Swindle (ATS).
''As professionals, we find the attempts by the minister to defend such humongous sum for the renovation project as disturbing'', the statement said.
The Conference said that it is appalled that in the face of widespread queries by Nigerians, given the overwhelming comparative global indicators of contract overprice, the minister had no answers but chose diversionary dismissive denunciations of critics as not having “good taste”.
The CP-PDP demanded that ''the
FCT Minister must come clean to Nigerians by providing the details of the contract including the official Invitation to Tender, showing the Bids by contractors, the Bill of Quantities, the scope of job and the due process certification documents warranting the N39 billion claimed to have been spent for the renovation of the ICC, four times higher than the N8.3 billion allocation for Agriculture for the entire over 3 million FCT residents in the 2025 budget.
"In addition, the refinery will offer a credit facility to those purchasing a minimum of 500,000 litres—allowing them to obtain an additional 500,000 litres on credit for two weeks, under bank guarantee. This pioneering effort marks a major milestone in our vision to revolutionise Nigeria’s energy sector," the company added.
Stressing that it was dedicated to ensuring that no place was left behind, it pointed out that "Our goal is to provide equitable access to affordable fuel for all Nigerians, regardless of location, making energy more accessible and sustainable for everyone, wherever they may be."
The company said the move was expected to revitalise previously inactive petrol stations, thereby driving job creation, stimulating small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), increasing government revenue, improving fuel access in rural and underserved communities, and strengthening investor confidence in
Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector. It added that the initiative was inline with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, reflecting the company’s shared commitment to economic progress, stability, and inclusive development.
"We sincerely thank the federal government for its continued support, especially through the Naira-for-Crude scheme, which has helped stabilise fuel supply amid global price volatility. It marks a major revolution in the midstream and downstream sectors and stands as a key example of President Bola Tinubu’s bold and reformative economic policies.
"We invite marketers, petrol dealers, manufacturers, telecom companies, and all key stakeholders to embrace this landmark initiative. The registration process, including Know Your Customer (KYC) verification, will take place from 16 June to 15 August, spanning a total of 60 days", the Dangote Refinery stated.
Wale Igbintade
Following a petition by the founder of PRNigeria, Yushau Shuaib, accusing the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) of unjust treatment and cybercrime, the institute’s Director General, Professor Ayo Omotayo, has officially ordered his withdrawal from the Senior Executive Course (SEC) 47, citing “misconduct and disregard for constituted authorities.”
In a letter addressed to a professional body which Shuaib belongs to, the DG NIPSS stated that the decision, approved by its management followed a disciplinary committee’s recommendation to expel Shuaib over alleged breaches of confidentiality and institutional guidelines.
However, the withdrawal letter signed by Muhammad Kabir Suleiman on behalf of the Director General, did not specify the exact offences constituting "misconduct."
It concluded by requesting a bank account details to process a prorated refund of Shuaib's course fee.
Shuaib had earlier petitioned President Bola Tinubu, detailing what he described as "unjust, humiliating, and deeply distressing" treatment at NIPSS.
In his petition, titled ‘Unjust Treatment at NIPSS Over Articles Supporting Digital and Blue Economy Reforms,’ he alleged harassment,
cyberbullying, and professional ostracisation—despite claiming full compliance with institutional guidelines. He further stated that he was abruptly asked to vacate the NIPSS premises following his suspension on May 2, 2025, a move that reportedly shocked his family and colleagues, especially as other participants remained in the programme.
Shuaib argues that he was unfairly queried for innocuous articles, including a news story titled "NIPSS Goes Digital," which he neither authored nor edited, as well as a positive opinion piece on the "Blue Economy" that made no mention of NIPSS.
Among several troubling episodes, he cited a discriminatory instruction forbidding him from identifying himself as a Member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (mnipr) during plenary sessions.
“This was particularly baffling,” he said, “since others were freely allowed to use their professional affiliations, including informal titles like ‘Dagger’ and ‘Sword.’”
Additionally, he claimed that during a disciplinary panel, he was denied the opportunity to defend himself, with the panel allegedly relying on a rewritten response imposed by Rear Admiral A. A. Mustapha on behalf of Barrister Nima Salman Mann, the acting Director of Studies.
Passes 108 bills, reiterates support for Tinubu’s tax reforms for $1tn economy
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
As the 10th Senate marks its midterm anniversary, the upper chamber has outlined its key legislative priorities for the next two years - chief among them being electoral reform, constitutional review, and comprehensive judiciary restructuring.
In a statement commemorating the second legislative year of the 10th National Assembly, Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, said the Senate had introduced a total of 983 bills - 506 of them in the 2024/2025 session alone - with 108 successfully passed into law between June 2023 and June 2025.
According to Bamidele, this milestone represents a significant legislative achievement, with a 232% increase in enacted bills compared to the previous session.
Bamidele said: "The 10th Senate has focused on stabilising Nigeria’s fiscal, monetary, and political environment through strategic legislative engagement. The legislative uptick is a testament to our commitment to national development.”
He listed landmark legislations such as the National Social Investment Programmes Act (2023), Student Loan (Access to Higher Education) Act (2024), National Minimum Wage Amendment Act (2024), Investment and Securities Act (2025), and the Regional Development Commission Establishment Acts (2025), among others.
Bamidele highlighted the Student Loan Act as a transformative tool for expanding access to higher education.
According to data from the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, over 1.09 million students have applied, with more than half already benefitting through tuition and upkeep loans.
Electoral, Judicial Reforms top Legislative Agenda
Looking ahead, Bamidele assured Nigerians that electoral reform, constitutional amendment,
and judiciary restructuring will dominate the Senate’s focus in the coming months. “Our aim is to ensure that every vote counts and to boost voter confidence in the system. Electoral credibility is vital for democracy,” he said. On judicial reform, Bamidele confirmed the existence of several pending bills targeting the appointment process, tenure, and welfare of judicial officers.
Senate Finance Chair: Tax Reform will Eliminate
Meanwhile the Chairman, Senate Committee on Finance, Senator Sani Musa, has expressed the red chamber's determination to support President Bola Tinubu’s comprehensive fiscal reform bills, describing them as critical steps toward eliminating
structural inefficiencies, easing tax compliance, and attracting foreign investment.
Musa in an interview with journalists in Abuja at the weekend said: "We are confident these reforms will help Nigeria achieve a $1 trillion economy by the end of President Tinubu’s tenure.” Musa, provided insight into the sweeping tax reform efforts championed by the Tinubu administration.
He revealed that the proposed
fiscal legislation will harmonise Nigeria’s fragmented tax structure - reducing 73 different levies across federal, state, and local governments - and provide exemptions for low-income earners.
“If you earn less than one million naira annually, you are now exempt from personal income tax. This directly benefits lowwage earners and small business owners,” Musa said.
He also confirmed that existing
VAT (7.5%) and corporate income tax (30%) rates will remain unchanged to maintain fiscal stability while enhancing compliance.
Musa said: “To improve revenue collection, all government income streams are now being channeled through a centralised system.
“We are closing leakages and plugging holes, especially in sectors like oil and gas, where inefficiencies have cost the country trillions,” he said.
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Peter Uzoho, Dike Onwuamaeze in Lagos
The Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprises (CPPE) has projected that the outbreak of fresh conflict between Israel and Iran, which led to an increase in the price of crude oil by close to 15 per cent in the international market, would escalate energy cost, increase inflationary pressure and undermine the profitability of businesses in the Nigeria.
These projections were made yesterday by the Founder/Chief Executive Officer of CPPE, Dr. Muda Yusuf, in a public statement titled: “Israeli-Iran War: Risks and Upsides for Nigeria Economy.”
Yusuf said: “With the outbreak of the Israeli-Iranian war, crude oil prices had surged to $75 per barrel from $65 per barrel a week before. This is a 15 per cent jump within days. This has obvious implications for petroleum product prices globally like a surge in the price of petrol, diesel, jet fuel, gas and related products in the near term.
“Energy cost is a major factor in the Nigerian inflation equation. It impacts production cost, logistics cost, transportation costs, and the cost of power generation. This presents an inflationary scenario. In addition, energy prices have global
inflationary implications. Therefore, there is also an expectation of imported inflation in the unfolding geopolitical scenario.”
He also predicted the likelihood of tighter monetary policy as monetary authorities respond to the inflation outcomes of current geopolitical headwinds.
“A tighter monetary policy regime is expected in Nigeria and other monetary jurisdictions. The expectation is that economies around the world may experience renewed pressures on interest rates. Higher global interests could adversely impact portfolio flows with implications for foreign reserves,” Yusuf said.
According to him, high energy cost, elevated inflationary pressures and a spike in interest rates are headwinds that could undermine the profitability of businesses in the economy, with investors in the non-oil sector likely to be more vulnerable in the present situation.
He added that Nigerian firms with strong business links in the Middle East and those with strong supply chain linkages in the region would be vulnerable at this time because of the current instability in the region.
Yusuf, however, said that if the current conflict between Israel and Iran persists and escalates, the Nigerian economy might experience
improved foreign exchange earnings from sale of crude oil.
“This development would also positively impact the country’s foreign reserves, ensure better foreign exchange liquidity and ultimately the stability of the Naira exchange rate.
“The oil sector currently accounts for about 50 per cent of government revenue. An improvement in crude oil price would therefore have a significant impact on government revenue. An improvement in revenue would positively impact fiscal consolidation and hopefully moderate the growth of the fiscal deficit,” he said.
According to him, investments in the oil and gas sector would post better returns if the conflict persists since high oil prices are good news for upstream oil and gas investors.
Meanwhile, Nigeria's oil production remained stunted for the fourth consecutive month in May, with an output of 1.452 million barrels per day in May 2025, representing a 2.20 per cent drop compared to the 1.485 million bpd pumped in April.
In the same vein, aside from January when Nigeria hit 1.53 million bpd, it has since then been unable to repeat the feat, only managing to 1.46 million bpd in February and 1.4 million bpd in
March this year.
However, these figures represent oil production alone, excluding condensate, which is a mixture of light liquid hydrocarbons, usually separated from a natural gas stream at the point of production. Although it is also oil, it is excluded from the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) quota calculation.
Data from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NUPRC) showed that with the addition of condensate, oil production still dropped from 1.68 million bpd in April to 1.65 million bpd in May.
Nigeria’s 2025 budget is anchored on an oil price benchmark of $75 per barrel, with an ambitious daily production target of 2.06 million barrels per day.
But in January, it was 1.73 million bpd, with the addition of condensates, while it was 1.67 million bpd and 1.60 million bpd in February and March respectively.
The situation shows that Nigeria is unable to quickly take full advantage of the current sharp rebound in the global oil price as Brent Crude, the global benchmark for oil price, hit $78.50 last Friday following Israeli attack on critical infrastructure in Iran.
The upstream regulator also noted that the average crude oil production for May represented
97 per cent of the 1.5 million bpd quota set for Nigeria by OPEC. It said: “lowest and peak combined crude oil and condensate production in May were 1.61 million bopd and 1.810 million bopd respectively. The daily average production in May was 1,657,435 barrels per day, comprising both crude oil (1,452,941 bopd) and condensate (204,493 bopd). Nigeria’s inability to produce enough oil, despite having some of the largest reserves in Africa, is the result of a complex mix of structural, operational, and political challenges that have persisted for decades.
At the heart of the issue lies a fragile oil infrastructure system, burdened by decades of underinvestment, sabotage, and bureaucratic inefficiencies. Pipelines, flow stations, and export terminals are often in poor condition, leading to frequent breakdowns and the loss of substantial volumes of crude through leaks or technical failures. Although gradually reducing, one of the most damaging factors is oil theft, which has become a deeply entrenched problem, particularly in the Niger Delta region. Sophisticated networks siphon off millions of barrels annually through illegal tapping points and vandalism, severely undermining the country's production output.
Some analysts see move as
Mixed Reactions have trailed last weekend's directive by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to banks under regulatory forbearance to temporarily suspend dividends, bonuses and new investments in foreign subsidiaries.
In a circular dated June 13, 2025, and signed by the Director of Banking Supervision, Dr. Olubukola Akinwunmi, the CBN instructed all banks currently under regulatory forbearance to suspend the payment of dividends to shareholders, bonuses to directors and senior executives, and investments in offshore subsidiaries or new foreign ventures.
The move, according to the apex bank, is part of a broader strategy to ensure that banks operating under forbearance supervision strengthen their financial resilience and fully comply with capital adequacy and loan provisioning standards.
The CBN emphasised that the restrictions are temporary and will be lifted once key conditions are met, a full exit from regulatory forbearance, and independent verification of capital and provisioning levels as being within acceptable regulatory thresholds.
While some analysts see the CBN's intervention as timely and strategic in accelerating the resolution of nonperforming loans (NPLs) and improving capital buffers, others expressed apprehension that the action might
trigger some kind of pressure on banks stocks due to uncertainty.
Some analysts who hold the view that the new directive could lead to pressure on banks stocks at the initial stage, argue that this would be due to the failure on the part of the apex bank to list or identify the banks involved in the forbearance.
While initial reactions from some stakeholders included concerns about investor impact and even share price decline, financial analysts argue that the directive is designed to encourage swift corrective action from the banks ensuring that bad loans are fully provided for, and that future dividend payments are backed by genuinely sound balance sheets.
Chief Executive Officer of CFG Advisory, Adetilewa Adebajo, described the CBN’s decision as a positive step that will ultimately benefit shareholders and the banking system:
“This move, from all accounts and the explanation in the circular, is around capital positions and provisioning adequacy to address the issues around the loan portfolio of banks once and for all.
"The bottomline is that all banks that want to continue paying dividends must make full provisions for their Non-Performing Loans (NPL), which will invariably impact their profitability. As banks are recapitalizing, it is important that the fresh capital is used to clean up and improve the quality of their risk asset portfolio.
The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has again reiterated his call for necessary support and encouragement to local businesses. Obi, who flew into the United Kingdom at the weekend on a local airline, Air Peace, wrote in his X handle that the flight was smooth and lively. He appealed to Nigerian elites to always support and patronise local businesses as it's not easy to establish and sustain a viable business.
"I just arrived in the UK this morning, on Air Peace from Lagos to London. I have now taken almost a dozen flights to or from London on this airline. I want to sincerely thank the management and staff of Air Peace for their professionalism,
consistency, and competence on this route.
"Once again, I use this opportunity to appeal to Nigerian elites and political leaders to give strong and deliberate support to indigenous businesses.
“It is never easy to run any business in our difficult environment, let alone highly capital-intensive sectors like air and land transportation, especially given the challenges of competitiveness and rising operational costs.
"Nigerian businesses need our encouragement and patronage, not harassment or unnecessary intimidation.
“Supporting local businesses, particularly those that create Qmassive employment, is critical for job creation, economic growth, and sustainable national development.”
"Non-payment of dividends, bonuses and offshore investments obviously improves capital retention and should boost stock values,” he said.
Adetilewa added that the policy sends a strong signal of regulatory intent to restore long-term investor confidence through stronger governance and transparency, even if it comes with short-term trade-offs.
On his part, the Head of Financial Institutions Ratings at Agusto & Co., Ayokunle Olubunmi, noted that CBN had already hinted that forbearance would
be called off by the end of the first half of the year, however the timely does indicate the seriousness of CBN’s intent.
He said: “Many banks didn’t expect the CBN to take this particular approach. I think they assumed the CBN would simply ask them to make provisions on those loans or classify them. In fact, many of the affected banks had already started working on those facilities even before now.
“But with this move by the CBN, those efforts may be disrupted. For banks that typically pay dividends in
June, this might affect them, because they may not be able to resolve those loan issues before the end of the month.
That’s why their dividend declarations may be impacted.
On the suspension of investments in foreign subsidiaries of the affected banks, he stated, “Yes, that too will be affected to some extent. But you see, investments in subsidiaries aren’t immediate as they take time.
"You can delay those for a year or two if needed. Unlike dividends or bonuses, which have more immediate
impact, subsidiary investments can wait.
"That said, many international banks except maybe Access Bank were planning to expand internationally using proceeds from their recent capital raises. So yes, it could affect those plans.
"But from what I know, most of the significant investments weren’t planned for this year anyway. Many of them were looking at 2026, so I don’t think the impact will be major in the short term. But again, I believe many of the unresolved facilities will be cleared before the end of the year.”
Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja
Senator Sunday Karimi representing Kogi West has disclosed that President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly should not be held responsible for the slow or near-non implementation of the Supreme Court judgement granting local government financial autonomy.
Karimi who disclosed this while speaking in a chat with journalists in Lokoja yesterday noted the presidency and National Assembly are not culpable for the slow process of the local government autonomy .
He said President Tinubu's vision leading to the favourable judgement of the supreme court is aimed to free the people from slavery and underdevelopment, which starts with financial autonomy for the third tier of government.
He urged Nigerians to continue to
support the president in his effort to bring good governance close to the people at the grassroots.
"The provisions of Section 235 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, (As Amended) within Chapter 7, Part 1, deals with the finality of determinations by the supreme court.
"It states that no appeal can be made to any other body or person from a decision of the supreme court, except for the powers of the president or a state governor regarding the prerogative of mercy.
"In essence, this section establishes the supreme court as the final arbiter of legal disputes within the country, with its decisions being binding and unappealable.
"Without prejudice to the powers of the president or of the governor of a state with respect to prerogative of mercy, no appeal shall lie with any other body or person(s) to revalidate
the already determined matter or dispute by the supreme court"
Responding to question on why the senate has not deemed it fit to give any legislative backing to the supreme court judgement of the 11th July, 2024 on local government autonomy, Senator Karimi described the supreme court judgement granting full autonomy to the councils as the president's trump card to legally and holistically address the local government challenges once and for all.
"That was why the Attorney General and Minister of Justice of the Federation went to supreme court to institute that case", he said.
He emphasized the importance of local government autonomy, stating that case instituted by the attorney general at the supreme court, and mid-wived by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, demonstrates the federal government's commitment
and support for a functional local government system in the country.
He further stressed that "As a means of solving local government problems, the president wants autonomy for local government. If the Federal Government of Nigeria doesn't want local government autonomy, it wouldn't have instituted the case in the first place.
"And for us in the National Assembly, we are fully in support of local government autonomy and the steps so far taken to restore proper governance at the local level in Nigeria.
"I don't want to say much about it before when I came in. But we will talk about it. Local government autonomy must come to stay. It's not for National Assembly alone but for the good of every Nigerian, therefore, it is a fight for all of us, because if we keep quiet, that autonomy will not stand.
Chairman of THISDAY editorial board and former presidential spokesman, Olusegun Adeniyi, will today release his latest book, THE GHOST OF JUNE 12. It is a compilation of four books he wrote between 1992 and 2005 on the transition to civil rule of Generals Ibrahim Babangida and Sani Abacha.
Adeniyi said he decided to make the compilation for “members of a generation that do not know what Nigerians went through under the military or what the whole ‘June 12’ story is all about,” while also stating that there will be no public presentation. “The period
between 1992 and 1998 was one of betrayal, resistance, and hope. It was a time when the Nigerian people demanded democracy but were repeatedly denied. It was also a time when individual sacrifices played a crucial role in shaping the future,” Adeniyi wrote in the introduction. “This book is therefore more than a recounting of events. It is a reminder of where we have been and how easily history can repeat itself if we are not vigilant.”
The four books compiled into one are ‘Fortress on Quicksand’, published in 1992 on the 23 presidential aspirants of the
defunct and military-created Social Democratic Party (SDP) and National Republican Convention (NRC) who were all disqualified and banned from contesting elections; ‘POLITRICKS: National Assembly under Military Dictatorship’, published in 1994 to detail the intrigues of having a civilian legislature with General Babangida as a military president; ‘Abiola’s Travails’, published in August 1997 to mark the late M.K.O. Abiola’s 60th birthday at a period he was in detention and ‘The Last 100 Days of Abacha’ published in August 2005. Although written at different
moments, these four books capture distinct yet interwoven aspects of the transition process. Combined, they piece together the threads of those turbulent years. The unified volume, according to Adeniyi, presents the story of ‘June 12’ in its full context, revealing how the military’s hold on power shaped the fate of Nigeria’s institutions and people. “The compilation is a story of political manipulation, of courage and betrayal, and of a nation’s determined struggle to reclaim its voice.”
Adeniyi said the book will be available in bookstores as well as on Amazon and Kindle.
Mary Nnah
The Onisabe of Igbobi-Sabe Kingdom, Shomolu, Lagos, Oba Owolabi Adeniyi, has called on President Bola Tinubu to prioritise security and address the rising insecurity in various parts of the country.
Addressing journalists on the state of the nation at the weekend in his palace, the monarch expressed concern over the killings and fear-mongering in Plateau, Benue, Taraba, and
Borno States, which have affected farmers and contributed to food shortages and hunger in the nation.
Oba Adeniyi said: “It is so easy to demolish or pull down skyscrapers within one hour, but extremely difficult to build, as it could take many years to achieve. That’s exactly the situation with our country.
“The president inherited a struggling economy and several challenges that have been with us for long years, which will
Igbawase Ukumba in lafia
In a bid to mitigate the effects of climate change in Nasarawa State, a non-governmental organisation, One Acre Fund Nigeria, has commenced the distribution of over 2.3 million Albizia Lebbeck and Moringa tree seedlings to no fewer than 82,150 smallholder farmers in the state.
Speaking at the flag-off of the exercise in the Adogi community of Lafia Local Government Area of the state yesterday, the Trees Lead of One Acre Fund Nigeria, Zainab Haruna, noted that the organisation aims to support farmers by providing them with access to high-quality agricultural inputs to end poverty, hunger and generally improving their livelihoods.
While explaining that the gesture was done in order to
reduce the devastating effects of climate change in the state, she noted that trees planting was part of the avenues the organisation uses to support farmers to continue to feed themselves, their families and generally enjoy financial stability.
The trees lead further explained that if the trees are well nurtured, the farmers will be able to harvest the trees when they reach maturity and enjoy their numerous environmental benefits which include protecting their farmlands from erosion, adding that they will also be able to sell some of the trees for furniture purposes.
She said: “In 2025, One Acre Fund Nigeria aims to reach 471,700 smallholder farmers across the three states of Nasarawa, Kwara and Niger with 12.5 million tree seedlings.
require collective support and prayers of Nigerians to overcome.”
The Oba congratulated President Tinubu on
the achievements of his administration over the last two years, and praised the decision to honour the heroes of the June 12 struggle with
posthumous awards.
“I want to start by congratulating President Bola Tinubu on the landmark achievements in the last two
years of his administration and also to remind him that there is more that needs to be done in tackling the insecurity and hunger in the land,” he said.
Omolabake Fasogbon
Experts have called for the prioritization of large-scale investments in Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) for seamless movement of goods, services, and persons, to stir growth and sustainability.
The experts described TOD as a planning strategy that concentrate jobs, housing, and services around public transport stations, suggesting it’s an ideal model to manage Lagos State expected population boom.
According to a report, Lagos is projected to become Africa’s most populous city by 2050 and one of world’s largest urban centres with over 30 million residents.
The Strategic Advisor at Diya Fatimilehin and Co., Mr. Lanre Olutimilehin, while delivering a keynote address at the launch of ‘Eko Dream Homes, Phase 1’ by Cube Square Concepts Projects Limited in Lagos recently, tasked Lagos State Government on proactive efforts to be able to withstand projected population surge and consolidate its status as local economic power house. Speaking on ‘Creating Livable Cities, The future of residential development in Lagos’, Olutimilehin charged the state administrators on innovations that will make the state worth living in and not just a place to live.
Raheem Akingbolu
At just 19 years old, Nigerianborn innovator, Ifeoluwa Afolayan, a Master’s student in Design Engineering at Imperial College London and the Royal College of Arts, has emerged as one of the first-prize winners at WE Innovate, Imperial
College London’s flagship pre-accelerator programme supporting women-led ventures. Her team was awarded €15,000 to further develop their innovative agricultural initiative, which aims to transform farming practices and contribute to a sustainable planet.
The solution, Aeropod (by Muju Earth) is a capsule designed to aerate and enrich soil that activates in response to heavy rain, helping to provide a climate-proof alternative to intensive farming methods.
Ifeoluwa, founder of Aeropod, alongside her talented team members — Yuchen Cai, Alex Clark, and Ocean Hu — pitched their groundbreaking project at WE Innovate. The programme supports the next generation of women entrepreneurs by helping them develop new businesses through masterclasses, business coaching, expert support, and peer mentoring.
Olusegun Samuelinyenagoa
The Bayelsa State Government has announced the unveiling of a landmark Bayelsa E-Commerce Entrepreneurship Program (BEEP 2025) set to equip 500 business owners with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the e-commerce space.
This flagship initiative under
the MPOWER500 Programme is expected to be launched on June 17, 2025, by the state Governor, Douye Diri, at the Government House banquet hall, Yenagoa, the state capital.
Addressing the media at the weekend, the state Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs. Ebiowou Kolu-Obiyal, said the programme aligns perfectly
with the Prosperity Agenda, which prioritizes economic inclusion, youth and women empowerment, and sustainable development.
She said: “This year, the government intends to equip 500 business owners with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the e-commerce space through BEEP. This programme will not only empower our youths and women but also contribute to the economic development of our state.
“I urge all stakeholders, including our citizens, entrepreneurs, and business leaders, to take advantage of this opportunity. Let us work together to build a prosperous Bayelsa State, where everyone has access to opportunities and resources.”
In Nigeria’s turbulent energy sector, where shifting regulation, volatile oil prices, and the retreat of international oil majors have redrawn the map of control, Oando Plc, is not just surviving, but has sustained its growth trajectory, writes Emmanuel Addeh.
In recent times , Oando Plc, one of Nigeria’s foremost energy companies, has moved from a phase of quiet integration to visible and strategic assertion across multiple fronts: upstream, trading, financial management, and policy influence.
The company’s recent string of achievements signals not just growth, but a deep consolidation of its position as a leading indigenous energy player, one that has, for a long time, been associated with doing ‘big things’, as it were, in the energy sector.
At the heart of this chapter is a string of bold moves propelled by its Group Chief Executive, Wale Tinubu. After the acquisition of Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC) from Italian giant Eni, in a deal valued at over $780 million, this has more than changed the numbers on Oando’s balance sheet, it has altogether transformed the trajectory of the firm.
For one, it has given Oando full operational control of key oil mining leases, significantly boosting its reserves, and planting it firmly in the space once occupied by larger multinationals retreating from Nigeria’s onshore terrain.
The NAOC acquisition didn’t just catch the industry’s attention, it swept up accolades almost immediately. From Lagos to Cape Town, Oando was celebrated for pulling off what many called the energy deal of the year, recognised not just for its scale but for its strategic timing.
At a moment when global players are reevaluating their portfolios in Africa, Oando did the opposite, it doubled down. And the markets noticed. The company’s revenue surged, production numbers climbed, and its profit margins, confirmed by the recent release of its 2024 financial statement, held firm despite the volatility that continues to roil the oil sector.
But beyond the numbers lies something more enduring, a shift in narrative. Oando is no longer just an indigenous oil company fighting for relevance; it is positioning itself as a continental energy force. At major investment forums and energy summits, the company has begun to articulate a vision that goes beyond hydrocarbons.
Even in the face of operational challenges, such as recent sabotage-related disruptions in the Niger Delta, the company has been quick to respond, rebuilding pipelines and reinforcing its relationships with host communities. Its environmental and social responsibility strategy, once seen as a box-ticking exercise, is gradually taking on a more grounded, pragmatic tone. In boardrooms and on drilling sites, the sense is clear: there’s no slowing down for the company. Oando has become a company with the dare to scale, the humility to adapt, and the ambition to lead in a future where Africa’s energy mix will be shaped not just by foreign giants, but by companies that call the continent home.
From the acquisition of Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC) assets to stunning the markets with the announcement of a multi-billion-naira stock dividend, Oando has this year reeled out impressive numbers.
Oando’s year, measured in numbers, tells the story of a company strengthening its hold on the energy space. Revenue for the full year surged to N4.1 trillion, a 45 per cent increase that affirms both the successful integration of newly acquired assets and the momentum in its core operations.
In the same period, namely the 2024 financial year, Profit After Tax (PAT) rose to N65.5 billion, marking a 9 per cent climb and offering reassurance to shareholders who had waited patiently through earlier cycles of restructuring. That wasn’t all. Production figures were equally telling. The company recorded peak operating production of over 103,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day. On average, its daily output held around 23,900 barrels, a clear
improvement on previous years, largely due to the additional stakes and operatorship of oil blocks inherited from its acquisition of NAOC . In the same vein, that transaction alone boosted its 2P reserves to approximately one billion barrels of oil equivalent, putting Oando in a league far beyond its earlier dimensions.
Besides, Oando issued stock dividends totaling 1.28 billion shares, signaling confidence in its long-term trajectory and strengthening its appeal to investors.
In a statement, the organisation attributed its financial performance to the effectiveness of its business model, which focuses on cost optimisation, operational efficiency, technology and better procurement policy.
“The year 2024 was of transformation for Oando, the key highlight being our successful acquisition and subsequent integration of NAOC Ltd, which significantly enhanced our production capacity, attaining peak operated production of 103,206boepd and net entitlements of 45,000 boepd.
“Despite a challenging operating environment, we achieved a 45 per cent increase in revenue to N4.1 trillion, reflecting the strength of our business model, and a 9 per cent rise in profit after tax to N65.5 billion, notwithstanding the costs associated with the onboarding of NAOC,” Wale Tinubu, said.
Beyond the balance sheet, Oando is now playing a pivotal role in shaping the operational landscape of Nigeria’s oil industry. Its trading arm, Oando Trading, has taken the lead in exporting Nigeria’s emerging crude blends, including the debut shipment of Obodo crude in June.
Capping this run of successes was the recognition of Oando as the recipient of the “Energy Deal of the Year 2024” at the Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES), a nod not only to the scale of its NAOC acquisition but to the maturity of its execution.
Together, these milestones paint a picture of a company that has evolved from survivalist instincts to strategic dominance, positioning itself as a central figure in Nigeria’s energy transition, indigenous capacity expansion, and upstream revitalisation.
In a climate of uncertainty, Oando has managed to carve out a zone of clarity, essentially driven by vision, steadied by discipline, and now validated by results.
Penultimate week, Oando quietly recalibrated its financial muscle by successfully upsizing its RBL2 reserve-based lending facility to $375 million, in collaboration with Afreximbank and Mercuria. This move came after disciplined deleveraging from an original $525 million facility in 2019 down to just $100 million by year-end 2024, clearing the runway for this strategic refinancing . By tying available financing directly to its 1 billion-barrel 2P reserve base, the upsized facility extends runway into January 2029 and aligns capital with performance potential across Oando’s upstream assets. This wasn’t just financial housekeeping, it was a deliberate move to turbocharge production, fund aggressive drilling, upgrade pipelines and processing plants, and sharpen efficiency through new tech deployment.
Ultimately, the $375 million facility is more than liquidity, it’s a vote of confidence from leading lenders, signaling that Oando has the financial structure, operational discipline, and asset quality to deliver on its ambition of reaching 100,000 bopd and 1.5 Bcf/d gas production in the near future.
“Our Joint Venture holds extensive reserves with the potential to generate over $11 billion in net cashflows to Oando over the assets’ life. This working capital facility is a critical enabler towards efficiently extracting and monetising these resources.
“We appreciate the continued partnership of Afreximbank and Mercuria, whose unwavering support underscores their alignment with our long- term focus on maximising production, optimising asset performance, and delivering sustainable value to all stakeholders,” Wale Tinubu, said.
In the last few months, Oando Plc has moved decisively to cement its position in Nigeria’s volatile oil and gas landscape, but as a frontrunner in the country’s indigenisation wave.
With calculated financial moves, national-level visibility, and new responsibilities in Nigeria’s evolving oil production matrix, the company entered what industry observers now regard as a consolidation phase, one that fuses recent acquisitions with operational maturity and investor-minded reforms.
Oando’s trajectory over these past few months has been defined by three key pillars: Reward and reassurance to shareholders, deepened integration in national energy strategy, and
visible leadership in the drive for indigenous industry capacity.
This stretch has not been about headlines alone. It has been about underlining presence, projecting competence, and staying strategically relevant in a highly political and price-sensitive sector.
On February 14, 2025, Oando surprised shareholders with the announcement of a stock dividend. The company revealed it would issue 1,268,605,783 ordinary shares, distributing them at a ratio of one new share for every twelve held. The total value of this exercise, based on prevailing market prices at the time, was in the region of N97.6 billion.
Importantly, the dividend was structured in two tranches: the first half was issued immediately, while the second is scheduled for June 30. This deliberate sequencing achieves two goals: it rewards loyalty while helping manage liquidity. The message was simple: Oando’s leadership believes the company has emerged from years of operational uncertainty and can now focus on creating long-term value. While the dividend was non-cash, shareholders interpreted it as a confidence boost. It reflected underlying earnings strength, prudent financial management, and readiness to recalibrate the company’s capital structure without eroding liquidity at a critical growth stage.
In June 2025, Oando Trading, the company’s commodities arm, played a lead role in marketing Obodo crude, a newly blended stream from Conoil’s offshore production. The cargo was the first in a new wave of indigenous blends now entering the global trading system blends created out of necessity, as international oil companies withdraw from shallow and marginal Nigerian fields.
This is no small shift. For years, Nigeria’s oil marketing was dominated by foreign traders, with indigenous firms participating largely on the sidelines. But Oando has gradually repositioned itself to become the first call for lifting and marketing locally produced crude.
The Obodo blend is symbolic as it reflects a generational transition in Nigeria’s upstream system, and Oando is at the centre. Trading, often the quiet engine of oil companies, has become a strategic arm of Oando’s growth. With every cargo lifted, the company deepens its export footprint, expands its foreign exchange inflows, and enhances its integration across the oil value chain.
Oando’s story cannot be told in isolation. It is part of a wider movement: the rise of Nigerian and African indigenous oil companies taking over assets abandoned by majors. From the Niger Delta to Equatorial Guinea, the old order is shifting.
In this new reality, competence is not defined by multinational logos or foreign boards, but by local know-how, community acceptance, and the ability to operate efficiently in difficult terrains.
Oando’s leadership understands this. The company wants to be seen not just as a business, but as a national asset and a bridge between extractive wealth and local prosperity.
In the space of a few months, Oando has matured from a company trying to prove it belongs at the top to one that has clearly arrived. The 2025 dividend announcement, financial results, and deal recognitions are not standalone moments, they form the narrative of a company remade: financially stable, operationally aggressive, and politically astute.
As Nigeria and other African states reshape their oil and gas industries, shifting from IOC-led models to homegrown champions, Oando’s story will likely be viewed as a template: bold and ultimately resilient and rooted in strategic patience.
Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com
Deji Elumoye writes that this year’s Democracy Day was marked for the first time with an address to a joint sitting of the National assembly by President Bola Tinubu last Thursday.
June 12 has become a watershed in the history of the Nigerian nation. It was a day Nigerians of voting age voted in their numbers to elect the candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola emerging as the clear winner against the candidate of the National Republican Convention (NRC), Alhaji Bashir Tofa.
Few days after, the then Military President, General Ibrahim Babangida annulled the election, described globally as the freest and fairest poll in the nation’s political history, sparking widespread protests and civil unrest across the country.
The June 12 election demonstrated Nigerians’ ability to put aside ethnic, religious, and regional differences to vote for a leader who would bring positive change.
The annulment and subsequent protests highlighted Nigerians’ commitment to democracy and their determination to hold leaders accountable.
Abiola’s courage and determination in the face of adversity in the wake of the annulment made him a symbol of Nigeria’s democratic struggle.
By the turn of the Fourth Republic in 1999, President Olusegun Obasanjo, who never from the onset believed in the principle of June 12, did nothing to remember the day throughout his eight-year reign. His successors, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and Dr Goodluck Jonathan, followed his path.
Not until during the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari who in 2018 declared June 12 as Nigeria’s new Democracy Day to honor the significance of the June 12 election and its aftermath.
This decision replaced May 29, which had previously been celebrated as Democracy Day to mark the transition to civilian rule in 1999.
This year’s Democracy Day on June 12 was however marked with a difference. Rather than the day being celebrated with a parade at the Eagles Square in Abuja, President Bola Tinubu decided to take the celebration to the chambers of the legislative arm of government,
the National Assembly.
It was there at the House of Representatives Chamber that he addressed a joint session of both the Senate and the House of Representatives.
The session was attended by past Presidents of the Senate and ex-Speakers of the House of Representatives including Dr Bukola Saraki, Anyim Pius Anyim. From the executive side, was Vice President Kashim Shettima; Chief of Staff to the President, Hon Femi Gbajabiamila; National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, Ministers, heads of departments and agencies.
President of the Senate who doubles as Chairman of the National Assembly, Senator Godswill Akpabio presided
over the session by welcoming President Tinubu to the first ever joint session of the National Assembly to commemorate Democracy Day.
The President in his detailed address before the federal legislators touched on politics, economy and other salient issues affecting the country.
President Tinubu conscious of his background as a pro-democracy activist told the lawmakers in particular and Nigerians especially law enforcement agencies in general that his two-year-old administration is open to criticism and that nobody should be crucified for calling him names.
His words: “Do not be afraid to hear an unkind word spoken against you. Some of the best advice a politician gets sometimes comes from his most ferocious opponents. We dare not seek silence because the imposed silence of repressed voices breeds chaos and
Of note, however, is the fact that President Tinubu in his speech left out some prominent pro-democracy activists who were also in the trenches with him who deserve national honours. It will therefore not be out of place if the list is reviewed to accommodate the underlisted activists as well as others before the investiture of the awardees in July, 2025. They include leader of Afenifere and National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), a key figure in the pro-democracy movement, late Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin; NADECO Deputy leader and prominent activist, Chief Anthony Enahoro; NADECO General Secretary, Ayo Opadokun; Chief Abraham Adesanya; and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Oba Olu Falae.
ill will, not the harmonics of democracy in the long term.
“While malicious slander and libel should not go unattended, no one should bear the brunt of injustice for merely writing a bad report about me or calling me names. Democracy requires a fair degree of tolerance for harsh words and stinging insults. Call me names, call me whatever you will, and I will still call upon democracy to defend your right to do so.”
The lay back posture of the opposition parties also attracted the attention of the President who used the forum to taunt the parties especially the main opposition party, People’s Democratic Party. To Tinubu, the PDP has become tattered that it can no longer pose any serious threat to the ruling All Progressives Congress.
He, therefore, appealed to the leaders of the PDP to tackle their internal crisis which is making their leaders to defect in droves to the APC. He also denied insinuations that the APC was moving to turn Nigeria into a one party State.
According to the President: “To those who ring the alarm that the APC is intent on a one-party state, I offer you a most personal promise. While your alarm may be as a result of your panic, it rings in error. At no time in the past, nor any instance in the present, and at no future juncture shall I view the notion of a one-party state as good for Nigeria. I have never attempted to alter any political party registration with INEC. Equally, my friends, we cannot blame anybody seeking to bail out of a sinking ship even without a life jacket.
“Look at my political history. I would be the last person to advocate such a scheme. In 2003, when the then-governing party tried to sweep the nation clean of political opposition through plot and manipulation, I was the last of
The Foundation for Advocacy, Innovation and Research recently unveiled “The State of Women’s Health in Nigeria Report” at a high-level event themed the Banking on Women’s Health Conference. This landmark report presents a detailed, state-by-state analysis of health outcomes for women across Nigeria’s 36 states, highlighting urgent gaps, persistent inequalities, and critical opportunities for reform. Designed to amplify the often-overlooked struggles faced by Nigerian women, Mary Nnah writes that the report offers robust data and practical insights intended to guide policymakers, health professionals, researchers, and advocates toward transformative action
In a packed conference hall at the Federal Palace Hotel in Lagos recently, a sense of urgency filled the air as women from all walks of life gathered to discuss a pressing issue that has long been neglected: women’s health. The Banking on Women’s Health Conference was more than just a meeting – it was a call to action, a beacon of hope for a brighter future where women’s health is prioritised and valued.
Setting the Tone for Change
Ifeoluwa Dare-Johnson, CEO of Healthtracka and founder of the Foundation for Advocacy, Innovation and Research (FAIR), set the tone for the conference, her words echoing the sentiments of many women in the room.
“From the beginning of womanhood to menopause, to cancers, to fertility problems, it just feels like women can never get a break”, she said, her voice filled with empathy and determination.
“Women’s health has always been underresearched, under-prioritised, and under-funded, and it’s time to change that”, she noted with enthusiasm.
FAIR’s mission is to transform health outcomes for women by closing knowledge gaps, stimulating cross-sector collaboration, and pushing for systemic reforms that make healthcare more accessible, equitable, and impactful for every woman.
“We believe that when we bank on women’s health, we invest in the future of families, communities, and nations. When a woman’s health is neglected, it’s not just her that suffers, it’s her family, community, and her dreams”, Dare-Johnson emphasised.
This powerful statement resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting the far-reaching impact of women’s health on society.
The “State of Women’s Health in Nigeria Report”, launched at the conference, painted a stark picture of the challenges faced by Nigerian women.
Over 82,000 women died from pregnancy-related complications in 2020 alone. Nigeria faces one of the highest maternal mortality rates globally, with an estimated 576 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births. These statistics underscore the gravity of the situation and the need for immediate action.
The report, which offers a state-by-state look across Nigeria’s 36 states, reveals the patterns, gaps, and opportunities that demand urgent attention from policymakers, healthcare leaders, researchers, and advocates alike.
Dare-Johnson explained that the report is the foundation’s effort to shine a light on the silent battles many women fight every day, and to provide real data and real insights that can drive change.
The conference, at which the report, was launched, was a platform for women to share their stories, to break the silence that has shrouded women’s health for far too long.
Driving Innovation Through Recognition
The conference introduced the Banking on Women’s Health Innovation Award, which aims to recognise and support innovative solutions that address the challenges faced by women in Nigeria.
Dare-Johnson noted that “innovation needs to come from people who understand what’s going on with women on the ground.” The award seeks to encourage and empower innovators to develop solutions that cater to the unique needs of Nigerian women.
Breaking the Cultural Silence
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Women’s Health, Dr. Adanna Steinacker, spoke from the heart, sharing her own experiences as a Nigerian woman and advocate. “The cultural silence was loud,” she said, her voice filled with
L-R:
conviction. “I think a lot of us can relate to that. A lot of these conversations that are very important in moving our health agenda forward are often hushed. We are not supposed to speak about that publicly”, Steinacker added. Steinacker’s words resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom have had similar experiences.
“As a teenage girl, I remember gatherings with my twin sister and our friends, huddled in the corner of our dormitory, speaking quietly about the things we were just beginning to understand. We talked about the awkwardness of our periods, why some girls were in agony, and why no one explained to us anything about periods. I heard about sex for the first time through a friend who shared an experience
that she had not consented to. It was confusing, painful, and we didn’t even have the language or the safe spaces to fully process it’, she recalled. Steinacker called for a new culture where women’s health is spoken about loudly, boldly, and backed by action. “We are at a crossroads in Nigeria, a time we must decide whether we will continue to patch the surface or we are going to dig deeper to rebuild. And of course, we cannot talk about those solutions without honouring those already changing the game”, she said.
As Steinacker so eloquently put it, “Courage is not the absence of fear; it is the decision to act anyway.” The time to act is now, and it requires collective commitment, innovation, and resilience. Johnson emphasised the importance of prioritising women’s health, saying, “We cannot pour out of an empty cup. Today, we flipped the script. Today, we say you deserve to be well, not just functionally, not just strong, for everyone. You deserve to be bold, you deserve to be seen, you deserve to be heard, and you deserve to be prioritised.”
A Call to Bold Leadership Steinacker said, “Let this very moment be the moment that we commit to write our own stories, to lead with boldness, and to act with urgency. Because when a woman’s health is protected, a nation’s heart beats stronger. Let us move forward together, with courage, with clarity, and with a commitment to building a healthier, more just future for every Nigerian woman and girl.”
The conference highlighted the grim reality of women’s health in Nigeria, but it also celebrated the progress being made. Ifeoluwa Dare-Johnson’s innovations, such as at-home lab testing kits and Lola AI, a menstrual health chatbot, were recognised as game-changers in women’s health.
The Women in Healthcare Nigeria Network, led by Dr. Modupe Elebute Odunsi, was also honoured for its work in elevating the voices of female professionals in healthcare.
Partnerships and the Way Forward Deputy Director of Family Health at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Rodio Diallo, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to advancing women’s health in Nigeria.
“Nigeria faces one of the highest maternal mortality rates globally, with an estimated 576 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births, ranking as the fourth highest worldwide”, she said, her words underscoring the gravity of the situation. “Every day, preventable complications during pregnancy and childbirth claim the lives of women who are the backbone of their families and communities.”
The conference concluded with a call to action, urging attendees to work together to create a brighter future for Nigerian women. As the conference came to a close, the message was clear: women’s health is not just a women’s issue; it’s a national issue, an economic issue, and a human issue. The time to act is now, and it requires collective commitment, innovation, and resilience. The voices of Nigerian women are crying out for health and equality, and it’s time to listen.
The Future Starts Now
The “State of Women’s Health in Nigeria Report”, serves as a wake-up call for stakeholders to take immediate action to address the challenges faced by Nigerian women. With the report’s findings and recommendations, Nigeria can take a crucial step towards improving women’s health and building a healthier, more prosperous future for all.
The Banking on Women’s Health Conference has set the stage for a new era of advocacy, innovation, and collaboration in women’s health. As Dare-Johnson noted, “The time to act is now. It’s time to bank on women’s health.” The future of Nigerian women is in our hands, and it’s time to take action.
Kayode Tokede
Following gradual improvement in economic indicators, loan impairment charges in the nation’s banking industry has begun to trend southward.
Specifically, nine banks listed on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) impairment charges declined to N264.88 billion in the first quarter of 2025, about a 5.1 per cent decline when compared to N278.97 billion in the first quarter of 2024.
This is according to the banks’ unaudited results and accounts for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025 published by the NGX.
The banks are: Zenith Bank Plc, Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI), United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, First Holdco Plc, and Access
Holdings Plc.
Others are: Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO), Fidelity Bank Plc, Wema Bank Plc FCMB Group Plc.
The nine banks had in 2024 declared loan impairment charges of N2.28 trillion, representing a significant increase of 66.31 per cent from the N1.37 trillion declared in the 2023 financial year. Loan impairment charges refer to the adjustments made to the value of a loan when it becomes probable that the borrower will not meet their obligations as per the original terms.
This typically occurs when the borrower faces financial difficulties, leading to missed payments or a restructuring of loan terms.
In Q1 2025, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) retained its
Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) or interest rate at 27.50 per cent.
During the period under review, Nigeria’s headline inflation rate surged to 24.23 per cent in March 2025 from 15.44 per cent (rebased) in December 2024, according to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
This marks a significant increase from the 23.18 per cent recorded in February 2025, demonstrating the persistent pressure on household incomes, rising food prices, and the broader cost of living across the country.
The NBS data showed that inflation continues to accelerate, driven largely by increases in the prices of essential food and non-food items.
This has further strained the finances of millions of Nigerians
grappling with sluggish wage increases and economic uncertainty.
While banks increased their lending partly due to the CBN’s policy on the loan-to-deposit ratio (LDR), which is put at 65 per cent, macroeconomic challenges in Nigeria and sub-Sahara African countries where they operate have disrupted economic activities, and it is expected to affect most risk assets.
THISDAY analysis of the banks’ results revealed that UBA Plc significantly hiked its loan impairment charges, while most of the other banks reduced loan impairment charges in the period under review.
As UBA declared N11.12 billion loan impairment charges in Q1 2025, about a 592.96 per cent increase over N1.61billion in Q1 2024, Wema Bank
posted N1.82 billion loan impairment charges in Q1 2025, representing an increase of 64.7 per cent from N1.1 billion in Q1 2024.
ETI’s loan impairment charges stood at N114.32 billion in Q1 2025, up by 7.8 per cent from N106 billion in Q1 2024.
Zenith Bank declared N49.4 billion loans loan impairment charges in Q1 2025, about a 12 per cent decline from N55.97billion in Q1 2024; GTCO reported N13.42 billion loan impairment charges in Q1 202, representing a decline of 0.47 per cent from N4.05 billion in Q1 2024; First Holdco announced N37.25 billion loan impairment charges in Q1 2025, a decline of 11.2 per cent from N41.93 billion in Q1 2024 and Access Holdings closed Q1 2025 with N21.77 billion loan impairment charges about 4.5
per cent drop of N22.79 billion in Q1 2024. In addition, Fidelity Bank announced N6.29biillion loan impairment charges in Q1 2025, about a 49 per cent decline from N12.37billion in Q1 2024, while FCMB Group said its loan impairment charges declined from N23.71 billion in Q1 2024 to N6.3billion in Q1 2025 (a decline of 49.2 per cent).
Analysts posit that the decline in loan impairment charges does not come as a surprise given the improvement in economic indicators, as they noted that banks are battling with rising loan default, unstable foreign exchange, and hikes in interest rates.
A report by Renaissance Capital Africa has disclosed that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) forbearance loans for FBN Holdings and six other banks amounted to $4.01 billion, as the CBN announced plans to phase out regulatory forbearance gradually in Nigeria’s banking sector.
Renaissance Capital Africa in a report titled, “Phasing Out Regulatory Forbearances–Exploring Scenarios”, stated that based on its estimates, forbearance loans for FBN Holding alone amount to $535 million.
The report said that the gradual phase-out of regulatory forbearance
would allow banks to adapt, mitigating potential disruptions to capital adequacy and liquidity while maintaining sector stability.
During the recent Federal Government of Nigeria investor roadshow for its Eurobond issuance, the CBN announced plans to phase out regulatory forbearance gradually.
Renaissance Capital Africa in the report said the phased approach is more appropriate than an immediate and complete elimination, as it would mitigate the adverse effects of a sudden and total removal of regulatory forbearance, which has now outlived its purpose.
On May 27, 2020, the CBN
approved regulatory forbearance measures for Nigerian banks in response to the adverse economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
These measures applied retroactively from March 1, 2020, included a one-year moratorium on all principal repayments for CBN intervention facilities, a reduction in interest rates on CBN facilities from nine per cent to five per cent, and the restructuring of loans for affected households and corporations.
“Consequently, the asset quality of Nigerian banks remained relatively stable despite the economic challenges brought about by the pandemic, with Non-Performing Loans (NPL)
ratio of 4.3per cent (Sector average) staying below the CBN’s regulatory benchmark of five per cent,” the report explained.
The pandemic particularly impacted the Oil & Gas sector, which accounted for most of the restructured loans by Nigerian banks. Notably, a significant portion of these forbearance loans is classified as Stage 2 loans under IFRS 9.
According to the report, the CBN’s gradual phase-out of regulatory forbearance across the banking sector would likely be adopted on a sector-by-sector basis.
“The power sector, having benefited from recent tariff hikes, is expected to be the first to transition
out of the forbearance regime. The agriculture sector would likely follow, while the oil and gas sector—where forbearance loans are most concentrated—is anticipated to be the last to exit.
“In this scenario, banks may need to take a 10per cent provision for forbearance loans through equity. These provisions would be passed through equity in the nondistributable, non-capital-qualifying regulatory risk reserve (RRR). This treatment should help preserve profitability metrics, though it will exert modest pressure on CARs.
“Based on our adjusted Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) estimates, assuming a 10 per cent provision for our selected banks, we project
the following declines relative to H1’24 reported CARs: 60bps, 149bps, 198bps, 394bps, 17bps, 124bps, and 128bps for Access Bank, FBN Holding, FCMB, Fidelity Bank, GTCO, UBA, and Zenith, respectively.
“Discussions with the banks suggest that GTCO and Zenith have proactively provisioned for their forbearance loan exposures. Notably, GTCO has provisioned 80per cent of its forbearance loans, with the remaining balance to be gradually written off through equity, while Zenith has provisioned 20per cent.
In this Interview, the 13th President and Chairman of Council of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers, Oluropo Dada posits that stable macro-economy driven by federal government’s policies, improved corporate performance are responsible for the massive rally at the stock market
What is driving the ongoing upswing on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX)?
Aconfluence of macroeconomic stability, improved corporate performance, and renewed investor confidence is fuelling the current rally on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX). Some of the Key drivers include: Efforts of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in managing forex. The CBN has made significant progress in clearing forward backlogs and has adopted tighter monetary policies to stabilise the Naira.
Does the rally also have to do with the activities of foreign portfolio investors?
Relative stability in the economy and the fact that shares of many of quoted companies are undervalued relative to their intrinsic values have boosted confidence of Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs). There is improved liquidity in the forex market and the Naira is relatively stable. Many bluechip firms—particularly in the banking, telecoms, and consumer goods sectors have posted robust Q1 2025 earnings with improved margins. This is on the back of forex gains and cost optimisation. The outstanding performance has strengthened investor appetite for the companies’ stocks. The market has recorded moderate foreign portfolio inflows, which indicates optimism in our market.
What about the local institutional participation?
We have seen renewed patronage from domestic institutional investors, especially Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs). They are reallocating capital into equities to capture long-term value opportunities. The momentum is spurred by improved economic indicators and less forex related uncertainty. We cannot also rule out technical momentum sentiment. The NGX All-Share Index has breached several resistance levels since late 2023, drawing in speculative investors and retail investors. Increased trading volumes, new listings, particularly in fintech and upstream oil and gas also enhance market depth. The NGX rally is underpinned by structural reforms, stronger earnings, forex market improvements, and strategic asset reallocation. Barring external shocks, the momentum is likely to persist. However, we cannot rule out short-term corrections from profit-taking or policy risks as the market has self-correction mechanism.
Is the current upswing on the Nigerian equities market sustainable?
Yes, the rally is potentially sustainable in the medium term, provided that macroeconomic reforms are followed through, forex stability is maintained, and earnings momentum continues. However, Nigeria remains a high-beta market. Investors should stay grounded in fundamentals, adopt a disciplined accumulation strategy, and monitor policy direction closely. Sustainability of the
ongoing upswing on the NGX depends on the alignment of several supportive macroeconomic, corporate, and policy factors, balanced against notable risks. While the outlook is cautiously optimistic in the medium term, it remains highly sensitive to execution and external shocks.
What factors can enhance sustainability?
Macroeconomic Reforms with Consistent Execution is one of the key factors. Continued implementation of credible reforms such as fiscal discipline, forex market liberalisation, subsidy rationalisation, and tax reforms amongst others will deepen investor confidence and attract sustained capital inflows. Strong and Broad-Based Earnings Momentum, especially in banking, telecoms, and consumer goods will strengthen sustainability. These sectors are benefiting from gains, inflation-linked pricing, and higher interest margins. If Q2 and Q3 earnings maintain this trajectory, it will support more rally. Pension Funds, insurance firms, and fund managers are allocating more to equities to hedge inflation and preserve value amid limited fixed-income upside. Their long-term capital adds depth and reduces speculative volatility.
The CBN’s ongoing efforts to clear forex backlogs and attract diaspora remittances and Foreign Portfolio In Investment (FPI) inflows are making the forex market more predictable by boosting investor confidence and improving corporate planning. If we consider the metrics like Price-to-Earnings (P/E) and Price-to-Book (P/B), Nigerian equities, particularly financials, remain undervalued relative to their frontier and emerging market peers. These present buy signals. Increased access to digital trading platforms and growing financial literacy are also fuelling a new wave of retail investors. This bottom-up demand is complementing institutional flows and broadening market participation.
Can you comment on risks that can undermine rally?
Policy Inconsistency or Reversals remains an elephant in the room. Any rollback of reforms such as reintroducing fuel subsidies, renewed forex controls, or unclear fiscal policies could erode confidence and trigger capital flight if not properly implemented. I must equally state that high inflation, if not accompanied by productivity gains or real wage growth, could erode purchasing power, reduce corporate
margins, and affect consumer-oriented stocks. A sharp depreciation of the Naira, especially in the parallel market, could reignite forex losses for corporates and deter foreign investors. Insecurity, labor strikes, or political missteps, especially ahead of critical policy decisions, could spook investors and disrupt economic activity. After an extended bull run, the market is vulnerable to short-term corrections or sector rotations. Such pullbacks are healthy but could test investor sentiment.
What diversification strategies can help reduce a portfolio’s exposure to market volatility?
Diversification is key to managing investment risks. There are practical strategies that investors can adopt to minimise risks. This should begin from diversification of assets classes in line with the investment objectives and risk tolerance of an investor.
Combination of equities (for growth) with fixed income (for stability) is a risk-aversion measure. Add real assets like real estate or commodities (e.g., gold) for inflation protection and alternative correlation.
Spread investments across unrelated sectors e.g., financials, healthcare, consumer goods, industrials, and technology to cushion sector-specific shocks. For currency diversification, an investor can hold assets denominated in stronger currencies (USD, EUR, GBP) to hedge against Naira depreciation and local inflation. Consider USD-denominated Eurobonds or global mutual funds. Time Diversification of Naira-Cost Averaging is another way to hedge against risk. Invest periodically rather than lumpsum. This strategy smooths out entry-point risk and minimises the effect of short-term volatility. In the area of time diversification, balance growth stocks (for upside potential with value stocks for downside protection while a combination of large-cap for stability and small-cap for aggressive growth investments are appropriate. There is a need for rebalancing of portfolio. An Investor through his stockbroker can review and adjust portfolio periodically to maintain a clear risk profile and avoid overexposure to any asset class. Diversification doesn’t eliminate risk but it aligns your investments with your goals and tolerance for risks.
Which sectors are more resilient during market downturns?
Defensive sectors tend to perform better or remain stable during market downturns due to steady demand for the companies’ products and essential service offerings. These include consumer staples, food and beverages, and household essentials. They are always on in demand regardless of economic cycles.
NOTE: Story continues in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com
In a bold reaffirmation of its mission to bridge the gender and economic divide through financial inclusion and promoting literacy, HerVest, an inclusive fintech platform, convened a diverse audience of professionals, entrepreneurs, and young changemakers for the third edition of its flagship event, ValueUp 3.0. Held in Lagos, the event was themed, “Financial Wellness: Adapt, Grow & Thrive,” and explored practical strategies for building financial
resilience and achieving long-term economic stability.
Delivering her opening remarks, the event convener and Chief Executive Officer of HerVest, Solape Akinpelu said; “The journey to an equitable and prosperous society is not an isolated one. It starts with me and you and to everyone in the room whose presence embodies the possibility of equal opportunities. Financial inclusion for us is not just about access to money. Rather, it is about access to knowledge, networks, and long-term growth.”
“This year’s theme challenges us all
to not just pursue success, but to be financially and emotionally prepared for the future. When I started HerVest, it wasn’t just an ambition. It was out of a quiet conviction that women’s financial growth should be normal, not extraordinary. It was born out of a desire that access, and capital should be available, woven around women’s realities and peculiarities such as the unpaid labour, biological functions leading to career and business pauses amongst others.”
Akinpelu stated, “Financial literacy and inclusion are catalysts for change.
We are building an ecosystem where women are equipped with the skills and resources needed to lead financially empowered lives. We will continue to create spaces where people can learn, grow, and build a prosperous future.”
In her keynote address, the Founder of Beyond Limits Global and Former Director at Google West Africa, Dr. Juliet Ehimuan, stressed the critical need for individuals to recalibrate their understanding of wealth beyond income or status, particularly in today’s evolving economic landscape and the need to have the courage to make
informed financial decisions. “We must embrace change, harness the power of technology, and take bold steps toward economic independence. The goal is no longer just financial access, but financial adaptability,” Dr. Ehimuan said.
This year, the ValueUp 3.0 event featured three deeply engaging panel sessions that addressed entrepreneurship, career development in the digital age, and strategic wealth building. The entrepreneurship panel, titled ‘From Side Hustle to Scalable Venture: What It Takes,’
had respected voices like popular Costume designer, Film & Television Yolanda Okereke, Guinness Worldrecord Chef, Food Entrepreneur & Television Personality, Hilda Baci, and Founder, Caladium Consulting, AyoBankole Akintujoye, share personal insights into the discipline, systems, and support structures needed to grow informal businesses into scalable ventures. Usman Imanah moderated the session, steering conversations around opportunity identification, resilience, and fundraising.
Director General of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB),Captain Alex Badeh Jr., on Friday, paid a courtesy on Mr. Esayas Woldemariam Hailu, Chief Executive Officer of Asky Airlines, in Lomé, Togo to strengthen collaboration in the region.
The high-level engagement marked a significant step in fostering regional cooperation and mutual alignment on aviation safety, investigative transparency, and technical training.
collaborating on safety investigation procedures in accordance with ICAO-recommended standards.
The meeting, held at Asky Airlines’ headquarters, focused on strengthening bilateral ties between Nigeria’s Transportation Accident Investigation Agency and West Africa’s leading carriers. Discussions centred on the importance of harmonising safety practices, establishing a framework for operational support, and
He underscored the regional responsibility of the NSIB and the importance of engaging with airline stakeholders to proactively enhance safety outcomes.
“The future of aviation in West Africa depends on how well we collaborate today. This visit goes beyond being
a gesture of goodwill; it is a deliberate step towards building a network of trust, cooperation, and accountability in West African aviation. We believe that together, through shared knowledge and operational integrity, we can ensure the skies remain safe for all.
“We are moving away from a system where aviation rules are written in response to tragedy. Our
focus is on building a framework grounded in science, data, and technology to stay ahead of threats. This shift enables us to detect risks before they escalate into incidents, spot trends before they become statistics, and prevent tomorrow’s accidents today. This approach requires open collaboration with key stakeholders, grounded in trust and knowledge exchange,” he said.
A statement by Mrs. Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance, NSIB, said both leaders expressed optimism about the opportunities for ongoing collaboration, including the exchange of investigative insights, capacity-building initiatives, and the establishment of shared safety training programs aimed at elevating the regional aviation framework.
In a strategic move to position Nigeria’s capital market as a catalyst for cross-border investments, Nigerian Exchange Group Plc (NGX Group) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), have reaffirmed their commitment to fostering crossborder capital market partnerships. Their current engagements in China
reflect a broader drive to strengthen Nigeria’s connectivity to global financial markets and attract new investment flows.
This commitment was demonstrated at the China-Africa CEO Dialogue, organised by Choice International Group in strategic collaboration with NGX Group. The event took place on the sidelines of the 4th China–Africa
Chinedu Eze
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), has endorsed a client-based solution unveiled by a consortium to resolve challenges associated with travel, in particular re- protection for passengers triggered by operational, weather related and other infractions.
The new solution: “Propel Reprotection System,” is a unique tech – powered platform designed to help Nigerian carriers reprotect passengers when flights disruptions occur.
According to the promoters, Propel Reprotection, happens easily and airlines can make passengers’ transfer to available flights of other partner airlines during crucial period, ensuring no revenue loss as well as elevated passenger satisfaction.
NCAA Director General, Captain Chris Ona Najomo said the new solution, which will boost efficiency in air travel is a product of powerful collaboration between three industry leaders to ensure seamless coordination, funding and operational reliability.
The three industry leaders: Aviation Assist Hub, an aviation operations and support logistics firm, Aviation Technology Solutions (Avitech) – the tech engine powering the Propel platform and Leadway Assurance, financial protection and funding partner designed the platform as the bright future of aviation in Nigeria.
Represented by the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr. Micheal Achimugu he said, “Ladies and gentlemen, we are on the threshold of history of what we are able to achieve for which we are gathered here for. It is not a day for flowery words. The Honourable Minister wants flight disruptions reduced to the barest minimum. In this industry, the passenger is
the reason every other stakeholder exists. They are entitled, therefore, to better services and in accordance with global best standards.”
Speaking, the Managing Director of Aero Assist Hub, Managing Director of Aero Assist Hub, Mr. Olumide Ojutalayo said the consortium has worked hard d to drive the solution. He said:” We are a consortium with three organisations. We have Avitech Technology Solutions, experts and industry leaders in aviation sector. We have Leadway Assurance. We basically crafted this solution, working with these two organisations. The idea is to put a final solution to this whole chaotic problem of flight disruption in Nigeria. We are not just coming with an idea; we are also coming with finance.”
Also speaking, Head, Legal Unit of Aero Assist Hub, Funke Junaid said: “It is something that comes as a solution to what has been happening in the industry, regarding delays and cancellations. From a legal perspective concerning the customers rights, for example, because it’s all about the customer basically, what we are doing here, the customers will be deriving their rights from the airlines; because it is actually the airlines and PROPEL, the consortium, that will be entering into a contractual partnership.’
Also speaking, representative of Leadway Assurance, Diana Mulili said the government introduction of the Propel platform will revolutionise air travel in Nigeria. She said: “This is how we are looking at it. When we approached this problem, we realized that it was a growing problem across the industry, and we needed to create a product that would work to solve the local problem. So, none of our other existing products, travel products, are going to solve for this.
Economic and Trade Expo in Changsha, where NGX Group, SEC, and other leading African institutions engaged Chinese corporates, regulators, and financial institutions to explore mutually beneficial partnerships.
Speaking at the dialogue, Group Managing Director / CEO, NGX Group, Temi Popoola, noted that deepening capital market partnerships is key to unlocking new investment corridors between
Nigeria and China. He highlighted NGX Group’s engagement with institutions such as the Shanghai Stock Exchange and Hong Kong Stock Exchange, aimed at creating pathways for Chinese corporates to raise capital locally, whether through bonds, commercial papers, or equity, to help mitigate currency and operational risks while driving growth in key sectors like manufacturing, ICT, and automotive.
He said, “Financial flows are often the missing link in many China-Africa engagements,” Popoola said. “By opening these corridors, we are positioning Nigeria as a hub for cross-border investments and supporting the country’s economic diversification agenda.”
From a regulatory perspective, Director-General of SEC, Dr. Emomotimi Agama reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to providing
a safe, transparent, and enabling investment environment.
“Our job is not just to provide the framework, but to assure investors that if they come to Nigeria, they’ll find justice when they need it. Transparency and credibility are key to building investor confidence. While risk is inherent in every business, our role as regulators is to mitigate those risks and ensure a level playing field,” he stated.
Nume Ekeghe
Businesses across Nigeria are betting on a stronger naira in the coming months, but many also see borrowing costs heading higher, according to the latest Business Expectations Survey released by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
The survey’s positive outlook on the naira aligns with recent market performance, as the currency closed the week stronger against the US dollar. After months of volatility, the naira firmed up at both the official and parallel markets, reflecting improved FX liquidity and cautious optimism
among investors, a development that appears to support business expectations of further appreciation in the coming months.
The survey shows that firms remain generally optimistic about the macroeconomic outlook, with many expecting an improvement in the value of the naira against the US dollar across the review periods. “Respondents expect the naira to US dollar exchange rate to appreciate across the review periods, as indicated by a positive index,” the report states.
At the same time, however, the report said most businesses anticipate that borrowing rates
will rise highlighting concerns about access to affordable credit, even as they prepare for expansion.
The report noted that outlooks on total orders, business activity, and financial conditions were positive for the review month. Firms also said they expect business activity to improve further in June, August, and November 2025.
Sector by sector, the survey paints a picture of cautious growth adding, “The Agriculture sector led the way in terms of confidence and current capacity utilisation. Meanwhile, firms in the Mining and Quarrying and the Electricity, Gas and Water Supply sectors reported the strongest
expansion plans for June. The Construction sector, on its part, showed the highest employment prospects, with businesses saying they expect to hire more workers in the coming month.
“Still, for all the optimism, several challenges continue to weigh heavily on business decisions. Insecurity was flagged as the biggest constraint by 74.5 percent of respondents echoing a long-standing concern across industries. High interest rates, 73.9 per cent and high taxes 73.4 percent followed closely behind, showing that financial pressures remain a key hurdle for businesses looking to grow.
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia
Abia State Governor Alex Otti has said that his government was presently engaged in negotiations to acquire the moribund Star Paper Mill, Aba and bring the industry back to life.
He made this known during a grand civic reception organised in his honour by the Abiriba Communal Improvement Union (ACIU) at the Enyimba International Stadium, Aba.
Otti said that his government has already made a buyback offer to the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria(AMCON), which took over the Paper Mill after it shut down.
The Abia Governor noted that the hitherto blossoming Star Paper Mill had gone under thereby necessitating its takeover by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria(AMCON), which is yet to revive it.
“I grew up here (in Aba), I was born here, I knew how important
Chinedu Eze
Nigeria’s Air Peace, has drawn a brand-new arc across the Atlantic with the deployment of a Boeing 777 aircraft, which lifted off from Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport and, ten unbroken hours later, touched down at Robert L Bradshaw International Airport in Basseterre on Thursday.
This marks the first-ever Nigerian dateline on St. Kitts & Nevis’s arrivals board.
The milestone service, arranged for a Pan-African business conference in the Eastern Caribbean, carried delegations from Nigeria, thereby underscoring the airline’s growing trajectory and strategic foray into the global market.
The St. Kitts & Nevis flight is the airline’s third foray into the
Star Paper Mill was, not just to Aba, not just to Abia State, not just to the East of the Niger, but to Nigeria,” Otti recalled with nostalgia. As we speak, we know that Star Paper Mill has been taken over by AMCON. (But) one thing you can take to the bank is that under our watch, Star Paper Mill will be back,” Otti assured.
Star Paper Mill, which in its hey day, ranked among Nigeria’s finest producers of exercise books, tissue paper and other paper products, was owned by a renowned Aba-based,
Caribbean in five years. On 21 December 2020, the carrier operated an 11-hour flight from Lagos to Montego Bay, establishing the first nonstop link between Nigeria and Jamaica, and showcasing the long-range potential of Air Peace’s then-new triple-seven fleet The flight relied on one of Air Peace’s two Boeing 777 aircraft, which also sustain the airline’s daily Lagos–London Gatwick
Abiriba-born industrialist, Nnanna Kalu. After his death, his son, (now late) took over the management of the paper mill but the harsh economic climate dealt a devastating blow to the company, forcing it to close down over a decade ago. Meanwhile, Otti has also promised to restore light to Ohafia Local Government which has been in darkness for over five years following the vandalism of electricity infrastructures in the area.
schedule launched on 30 March 2024—another historic achievement for a private Nigerian carrier. Chairman and CEO, Dr. Allen Onyema, has hinted that more long-haul aircraft are on the way. In April 2024, he told Arise TV that the airline is finalising acquisitions that will underpin the Abuja–London route, as well as planned services to Houston and New York.
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 11 June-2025, unless otherwise stated.
08097710984 (WhatsApp only) alekhuogien@yahoo.com
Tech was supposed to be Nigeria’s ticket to global relevance. Instead, for a growing number of young hustlers, it became a tool for deception, luxury, and ultimately, disgrace.
Using tactics like hacking, phishing, and online impersonation, several Nigerians gained global notoriety for executing multimillion-dollar cyber fraud schemes. But their obsession with flaunting wealth on social media showing off cars, cash, watches, and private jets ultimately betrayed them. What they believed to be invisible crimes were first uncovered through Instagram, leading law enforcement straight to their doorstep.
In 2019, the FBI unsealed a 252-count indictment charging 77 Nigerians with cyber fraud and international money laundering. The charges, which spanned business email compromise (BEC), romance scams, and elder fraud, painted a grim picture of how digital literacy was hijacked by greed and glamorised across social media.
They represented a new wave of young, tech-savvy Nigerians who appeared to have unlocked the secret to wealth in a nation plagued by economic disparity. On Instagram, they flaunted designer fashion, toasted champagne aboard private jets, and posed with luxury cars, their posts dressed in motivational quotes.
To their followers, they were the embodiment of digital hustle, self-made millionaires who turned laptops into money-making machines. But behind the filters and flashy displays was a darker truth: a world built on deception, cyber fraud, and stolen identities.
At the centre of this illusion stood Ramon Olorunwa Abbas, better known as Hushpuppi. With more than 2.5 million Instagram followers, he crafted a global image of wealth and exclusivity, shrouded in mystery. Fans admired his taste in fashion and access to elite spaces, seeing him as a symbol of digital-age success.
But behind the glamour was a web of cybercrime. Abbas ran a sophisticated network of BEC scams and laundered millions. His arrest in 2020 inside a Dubai penthouse shattered the illusion. Extradited to the U.S., he pleaded guilty to nearly $24 million in fraud and was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison.
His story mirrored that of Obinwanne Okeke—once celebrated as a rising star. Known as Invictus Obi, Okeke had earned a spot on Forbes Africa’s 30 Under 30 and built a reputation as a promising entrepreneur in energy and construction. He spoke at business summits and inspired many across the continent.
But that image, too, was a façade. In 2021, a U.S. court sentenced him to 10 years after
uncovering his role in a series of email fraud and wire transfer scams that defrauded American companies of over $11 million.
Also notable is Sapphire Egemasi, self-acclaimed entrepreneur and digital strategist who was once celebrated as a rising star in Africa’s tech ecosystem. The 28-year-old Nigerian software developer and self-proclaimed digital strategist, who built her image as a globe-trotting coder with stints at companies like British Petroleum and Zara, now faces a dramatic fall from grace. She is currently confronting the possibility of a 20-year federal prison sentence in the United States.
Her arrest by the FBI in April 2025 in the Bronx, New York, stems from her alleged role in a multimillion-dollar cyber fraud scheme that targeted American government institutions. Prosecutors claimed Egemasi was the lead technical mastermind behind spoofed websites designed to mimic official U.S. government portals. These sites were used in phishing and wire fraud operations that diverted more than $1.2 million from public agencies.
According to a 2024 grand jury indictment, Egemasi worked as the chief architect in a cybercrime syndicate headed by Ghanaian national Samuel Kwadwo Osei.
Egemasi’s case marks another high-profile chapter in the rise and unravelling of social media-savvy tech figures entangled in digital crime.
Nigeria’s cybercrime cases have blended audacity and manipulation like that of the Ushie brothers; Emmanuel (23), Matthew (28), and Henry Ushie (30) whose elaborate schemes combined impersonation, digital manipulation, and public deception.
The trio was arrested by Nigeria’s Intelligence Response Team (IRT) in June 2020 for running a cyber fraud operation that exploited the heightened fear and uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. From their base in Anambra State, they created a fake Facebook account impersonating Frank Mba, the spokesperson for the Nigeria Police Force, and opened a corresponding bank account at First City Monument Bank (FCMB) under his name.
Their arrest was part of a broader sweep that exposed 24 cybercrime suspects at the force headquarters in Abuja. But this was not their first brush with the law.
Henry Ushie, believed to be the ringleader, had been previously arrested in 2017 for impersonating former Assistant Commissioner of Police Abba Kyari on Facebook, defrauding unsuspecting Nigerians in the process. Matthew Ushie
also had an international record detained in Ghana after posing as the country’s Inspector General of Police, John Kudalor. He scammed local officers into paying for fake slots in non-existent UN peacekeeping missions.
SOCIAL MEDIA AS CRIMINALS’ PLAYGROUND
Their case underscores a troubling trend: how digital tools, when weaponised by skilled impostors, can erode public trust and exploit even the most secure institutions. Once designed for connection and selfexpression, social media has evolved into a double-edged sword especially in Nigeria, where it now serves both as a breeding ground for cybercrime and a key tool for law enforcement.
Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and WhatsApp are increasingly exploited by scammers to harvest personal data. With over 36 million active social media users in Nigeria, fraudsters gain easy access to names, phone numbers, relationship details, and emotional cues—prime ingredients for identity theft, phishing, and romance scams.
Victims are often drawn in through flattering messages, emotional manipulation, or fake crises, only to realize too late that the person behind the screen is a phantom. But scammers, in their bid to flaunt ill-gotten wealth, often expose themselves posting photos of luxury cars, designer labels, and wads of cash. These digital breadcrumbs can and often do lead investigators straight to them.
Ironically, the same platforms used to deceive are now critical tools for justice. Agencies like Nigeria’s EFCC and the U.S. FBI actively monitor social media, flagging suspicious patterns, tracking online behaviours, and linking aliases across accounts. Many investigations begin with a single tip-off or an incriminating post. As cybercrime becomes more sophisticated, so too does digital surveillance, making social media both the stage for the crime and the scene of its undoing.
In a country where over 33 per cent of youth are unemployed, Nigeria’s tech-savvy generation faces immense pressure to “make it” fast. Social media has become the stage for projecting success, whether earned or fabricated. Lavish lifestyles often go viral, while stories of honest hustle are drowned
out by filtered images of wealth.
This culture breeds a dangerous mix of aspiration and desperation. While some young Nigerians channel their energy into legitimate tech ventures, others resort to creating fake startups or engaging in fraud to keep up appearances. Hashtags like #StopPlaying, #Don’tPlay, and #Doings glamorize instant success, often without context or accountability.
The result is a blurred line between ambition and deceit where perception often matters more than the truth, and where the pursuit of the “soft life” can lead to hard consequences.
Tackling cyber fraud in Nigeria requires more than arrests and prison sentences. It demands systemic change, cultural shifts, and long-term investment in ethical digital education. While agencies like the EFCC and FBI have made significant strides in dismantling cybercrime networks, experts emphasize that prevention must take centre stage. The underlying causes youth unemployment, lack of digital ethics education, social pressures, and the absence of structured mentorship need urgent attention if Nigeria is to guide its tech-savvy youth away from the lure of fraud.
To succeed, the government must prioritise tech training programmes that integrate values-based learning. Schools, religious groups, and community organisations also have a critical role in challenging the pervasive “get rich quick” mentality.
One example of a proactive solution comes from Sabilink Accelerator Hub, a grassroots social enterprise dedicated to empowering young Nigerians through entrepreneurship and innovation. Accredited as an SAED trainer for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in the Federal Capital Territory, Sabilink is launching a digital course designed for prospective corps members ahead of their orientation camps.
Understanding the tight timeline of the three-week camp, the startup is developing video tutorials to pre-screen candidates and identify the most promising talents. Selected participants will then embark on a 12-month journey, six months of intensive training followed by six months building and launching their own startups.
By equipping youth with practical business and tech skills grounded in integrity, initiatives like Sabilink’s offer a powerful alternative to the hollow allure of the “soft life.” They pave a path toward sustainable success rooted in hard work and ethical innovation.
e xecutive d irector, Technical, a ccess a RM p ensions, Mr. a folabi Folayan, spoke to n ume e keghe on the pension industry assessing the impacts of reform policies and how his company contributing to the deepening of the industry. e xcerpts:
As Executive Director in charge of operations at Access ARM Pensions, what are the key areas you oversee daily to ensure efficient service delivery across customer touchpoints and internal processes?
At Access ARM Pensions, the Operations Directorate serves as the engine room of the organisation, ensuring that people, processes, and systems run seamlessly to deliver a superior client experience. I oversee all core operational functions including contribution processing, benefits payments, fund accounting, finance, human resources, and information technology. In simple terms, we ensure that pension contributions are received and processed promptly, investments are accurately accounted for at both fund and individual levels, and retirement benefits are paid efficiently and without delay. Supporting these activities, our finance, HR, and IT teams work cohesively to drive operational excellence, enhance service delivery, and support the broader strategic goals of the business.
Operational excellence is crucial amid macroeconomic headwinds. How is Access ARM Pensions adapting its systems and workflow to maintain efficiency despite inflation, FX volatility, and interest rate changes?
In a high inflation environment such as we are facing currently in the country, keeping the cost of business operations down is important to be able to serve customers efficiently and return value to shareholders. At Access ARM Pensions, we have adopted a multi-pronged strategy to strengthen resilience and ensure seamless service delivery across all customer touch points. Firstly, we have accelerated investments in automation, streamlining critical processes such as contribution reconciliation, benefit payments, and fund reporting. This has significantly improved speed, accuracy, and transparency across workflows, enabling faster decision-making and more proactive issue resolution. Secondly, we are actively optimising our vendor relationships to reduce currency exposure. Where possible, we are shifting toward local procurement—engaging domestic service providers and tech vendors—to minimise reliance on FX-denominated contracts and support the Nigerian enterprise ecosystem. Lastly, we continue to leverage the broader Access ecosystem to drive shared value, particularly in vendor management and IT infrastructure. This collaboration enhances cost efficiency while maintaining the high service standards our clients expect.
Pension contributors expect timely communication and transparent account management. What mechanisms have you put in place to improve customer engagement and issue resolution speed?
At Access ARM Pensions, we understand that trust and transparency are at the heart of pension administration. Our core values—excellence and service—guide every aspect of our operations. As a customer-centric organisation, we have built our operating model around delivering the best possible client experience, from contribution processing to benefits payment. Our customer promise is to offer best-in-class service, with speed and accuracy in remittance processing, investment tracking, and prompt benefit payouts. To uphold this, we have invested in a robust omni channel strategy that allows clients to reach us through eight distinct service and complaint resolution channels, some available 24/7. This is complemented by our extensive physical presence through branches and service centres nationwide, ensuring accessibility regardless of location. Digitally, our upgraded mobile app, WhatsApp and other platforms provide real-time access to account details and fund performance. Meanwhile, our enhanced contact centre, supported by trained agents and improved ticketing systems, ensures fast and responsive issue resolution. We also drive proactive communication through alerts, regulatory updates, and education delivered via email, and app notifications. Together, these measures reinforce our commitment to transparency, accessibility, and service excellence across every customer touch point.
As the industry leans more into infrastructure and alternative investments, how is your operations team evolving to support new asset classes from a compliance, monitoring, and reporting standpoint?
As you may know, beyond our core mandate of pension administration, we are also highly skilled and experienced investment managers. With the industry’s growing shift toward more sophisticated
asset classes—such as infrastructure—we have strengthened our internal frameworks to support this evolution. This includes enhanced due diligence processes, seamless onboarding of new instruments, and robust valuation protocols, all of which are critical to maintaining compliance, transparency, and long-term performance. We have also upgraded our reporting infrastructure to accommodate the unique lifecycle and risk profiles of these assets, ensuring timely and detailed performance reporting to both regulators and contributors. Our compliance and fund accounting units work closely with investment teams to track adherence to guidelines while adapting control processes to fit non-traditional structures such as project finance vehicles or private equity partnerships. We welcome the new developments and can see how this will enhance investment returns on our portfolios and we are well prepared for it.
Given the erosion of value caused by inflation, how is your operations unit working to ensure that contributors receive real-time insights into how their retirement savings are performing?
Inflation is often described as the cruellest tax—and understandably so, as it silently erodes purchasing power over time. From an operational standpoint, our role is to ensure contributors have timely, transparent insights into the performance of their retirement savings so they can make informed decisions in response to macroeconomic realities. At Access ARM Pensions, we provide real-time visibility through our digital platforms, allowing clients to view their balances, portfolio performance, and transaction history with ease. In addition to this, we publish monthly newsletters that detail fund performance and the asset allocation strategies across various RSA Fund types. This transparency enables contributors to assess how their savings are positioned against inflationary pressures. We also emphasize investment education, empowering clients to adjust their strategy based on age and risk tolerance—whether that’s moving to a more aggressive fund or increasing their Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVC) to boost long-term value.
Balancing national development objectives with fiduciary duty is a growing theme in pensions. From an operations standpoint, how do you safeguard contributors’ interests while facilitating strategic impact?
At Access ARM Pensions, we believe national development and fiduciary duty can and should coexist. Pension funds are uniquely positioned to contribute to economic growth by financing infrastructure, housing, and other productive sectors. However, this must never come at the expense of contributors’ long-term financial security. From an operations standpoint, we apply rigorous due diligence, compliance,
and risk management protocols to ensure that every investment—impact-focused or not—meets our standards for safety, liquidity, and return. Our internal governance frameworks are built to preserve asset integrity, while ensuring all initiatives align with both regulatory guidelines and our contributors’ best interests. Ultimately, we support strategic impact where it enhances value, not just for the economy, but for the contributors whose futures we are entrusted to protect.
With the implementation of residential mortgage access from RSAs, how is your team ensuring a seamless process for contributors, and what backend challenges have you encountered in deployment?
The operationalisation of the Pension Reform Act 2014 provision allowing contributors to access up to 25 per cent of their RSA balance for residential mortgage equity has been one of the most impactful reforms in recent years. Since the initiative launched, we have supported over 1,000 contributors on their journey to homeownership. Given the high demand, we swiftly established a dedicated mortgage desk as a one-stop hub to coordinate end-to-end processing—covering eligibility checks, benefit calculations, documentation, regulatory approvals, and disbursements to primary mortgage institutions (PMIs). While uptake has been strong, a key operational challenge has been coordinating with PMIs on timely submission of pre and post-approval documentation. To address this, we’ve adopted a proactive, agile engagement model—streamlining workflows and fostering real-time collaboration to shorten turnaround times and ensure a seamless contributor experience.
Digital transformation is reshaping pension administration. Can you share how Access ARM Pensions is using technology to streamline back-office processes, improve compliance, and enhance user experience?
At Access ARM Pensions, digital transformation is central to our strategy for operational excellence and customer satisfaction. We’ve made substantial investments in digital infrastructure—both in our backend systems and customer-facing channels—to drive operational efficiency, enhance compliance, and elevate user experience.
From a back-office perspective, we’ve automated key workflows such as contribution reconciliation, fund accounting, and benefits processing. This not only speeds up processing time and reduces error rates but also improves transparency and scalability as our client base grows.
On the compliance front, our systems now integrate smart controls and audit trails that ensure regulatory alignment. Real-time dashboards and automated alerts allow us to track and resolve anomalies proactively, strengthening governance across operations.
Most importantly, we continue to lead on customer experience. We have significantly upgraded our mobile app, web portal, chatbot, and email platforms—touchpoints that have become increasingly popular with contributors. These platforms enable contributors to initiate benefit processing, update personal data, and onboard seamlessly. We’ve seen a steady rise in the adoption of our digital platforms, as contributors experience first-hand the speed, convenience, and ease of engagement. That said, we are not resting on our laurels. We are committed to continuous investment in these platforms to deliver more services digitally, allowing contributors to manage their retirement journey conveniently, anytime, and anywhere.
As someone deeply involved in execution and system design, what structural or regulatory bottlenecks do you believe need to be addressed
to make long-term pension fund operations more scalable?
The Nigerian pension industry has made significant progress since the inception of the Contributory Pension Scheme in 2004, but as the system matures, now marking 20 years in 2024, some foundational policies require modernisation to support scale and efficiency. A key bottleneck remains the centralised approval of benefit payments by the National Pension Commission (PenCom). While this approach was necessary in the early days to build public confidence and ensure controls, it has become less tenable with over 10 million contributors. The recent decision by PenCom to delegate certain approval responsibilities to PFAs and streamline processing timelines is a welcome shift and will significantly improve service delivery and user experience. Another area ripe for reform is the centralised Retirement Savings Account (RSA) opening system. The current setup limits PFAs from independently assigning account numbers, creating avoidable delays. A system similar to the NUBAN framework used in the banking industry—where PFAs can generate unique, standardized account numbers would enhance flexibility and speed. In addition, enabling contributors to hold multiple types of pension accounts with different PFAs, such as separate accounts for mandatory contributions and voluntary or alternative retirement products would unlock innovation, encourage competition, and support financial planning across life stages. Reforming these structural elements will be critical to making pension operations more scalable, agile, and contributor-focused in the years ahead. How does your operations team engage with regulators like PenCom to ensure Access ARM Pensions stays compliant while remaining flexible enough to innovate around service delivery?
A constructive and collaborative relationship with the regulator is vital for a stable and forward-looking pension system. At Access ARM Pensions, we maintain continuous engagement with the National Pension Commission (PenCom) to ensure alignment with regulatory expectations while providing feedback on how policies impact contributors in real time. Our engagement with PenCom is daily and we have enjoyed the confidence of the Commission in adopting suggested operational changes to enhance service to the benefit of the contributor. We’ve been fortunate to enjoy the Commission’s openness to such input, and we’ve seen firsthand how some of our recommendations have led to service-enhancing updates that ultimately benefit contributors. To be fair, most of the guidelines are broad and allows for flexibility around implementation and innovation, so we have been extended great latitude around service delivery while remaining compliant.
Looking ahead, what are your top operational priorities for Access ARM Pensions over the next 12 to 18 months—from automation and client service to risk management and regulatory alignment?
Over the next 12 to 18 months, our operational priorities at Access ARM Pensions are focused on deepening efficiency, strengthening compliance, and expanding access, particularly with regard to automation, contributor engagement, and support for informal sector growth.
We are excited about the implementation of self-approval for benefit payments, a significant regulatory shift that will reduce turnaround time and enhance customer satisfaction. Similarly, the approval of Payment Solution Service Providers (PSSPs) for pension remittances marks a step-change in how contributions are collected—improving speed, accuracy, and transparency for both employers and contributors.
In response, our goal is to implement straightthrough processing across key workflows such as remittances, benefit disbursements, and customer onboarding. This will ensure seamless execution, minimize manual intervention, and support real-time reporting.
We also recognize the strategic importance of the informal sector and are gearing up operationally to support the expected expansion in micropension participation. This includes retooling our systems, client onboarding journeys, and reporting frameworks to cater to this emerging segment. Altogether, these initiatives reflect our commitment to delivering a high-performing, technology-driven, and contributor-focused pension experience.
Oban Tower is purpose-built to give those who choose to live there an impeccable luxury lifestyle, Bennett o ghifo writes
Oban Tower is part of the first phase of Azuri Peninsula, a superb residential development
launched by specialist Eko Development Company Ltd.
The tower is located in Eko
Atlantic, a city built on 10kmsq of reclaimed land by Victoria Island. It is the new multibilliondollar city destined to be West Africa’s financial city for the next couple of decades.
Oban Tower has exquisite four-bedroom apartments, six-
bedroom simplexes (penthouses) and seven-bedroom villas.
Features in this facility include air conditioners, CCTV, an alternative power generator, a gym, a playground, a sauna, secure parking spaces, a swimming
pool, and water treatment. Eko Development Company is a property development company with a head office located in the Marina District, Eko Atlantic, Lagos. The company has one ongoing project and one completed project.
Oluchi Chibuzor
Lagos State government has pledged their support for an inclusive hiring toolkit designed to guide public, private, and civil society actors on best practices for hiring and retaining persons with disabilities (PWDs).
Welcoming the delegates of The Irede Foundation (TIF) during an advocacy visit to key leaders of the state government recently, the General Manager of Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, praised the non governmental organisation inspiration and efforts in developing the document.
However, Mrs. OyetundeLawal stressed the importance of “involving the private sector and sharing success
stories to build trust and credibility around inclusive hiring.”
In collaboration with the Disability Rights Fund (DRF), TIF’s advocacy visit to the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development served as a launchpad for the toolkit which designed to guide public, private, and civil society actors on best practices for hiring and retaining persons with disabilities.
Speaking while presenting the toolkit also to the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende, Executive Director, TIF, Mrs. Crystal Chigbu, ssid the the inclusive hiring toolkit is designed to guide public, private, and civil society actors on best practices for hiring and retaining persons with disabilities.
According to her, “This
toolkit is a powerful step in removing barriers and changing the employment narrative for PWDs. The July 2025 stakeholder DEEP summit will convene employers, advocates, and policy makers to co-create lasting solutions and scale access to economic opportunities for PWDs. With a goal to train 150 PWDs and secure 20 internship placements, The IREDE Foundation is not just advocating change, it’s building it, one inclusive policy at a time.”
Responding, Ogunlende pledged the commitment of the Lagos State Government to the toolkit and said that, “this initiative is timely and necessary. The toolkit gives us a clear roadmap for inclusion, and we are committed to ensuring it’s fully implemented.”
Food Industrial Park Limited has signed a memorandum of understanding with Best Engineering Technologies based in Hyderabad, India, to offtake essential oils produced by the park. The offtake agreement covers over 500 tonnes of essential oils from various plants and spices yearly.
Speaking to the press after the inspection of existing facilities in selected locations, Mr. Pavan Kumar expressed optimism on the high level of potential and opportunities he had seen.
“We have visited Abeokuta, Tede, Ofodo, and Lokoja. I am really impressed by the readiness of our partners here in Nigeria, and I believe the results will be great,” Kumar said.
Chief Executive Officer for Food Industrial Park Limited, Michael Anibi, said that the partnership became possible because of collaborations and strategic alliances among several indigenous companies. The stakeholders involved in Nigeria include farmers, processors, and technical professionals.
“3,000 hectares of aromatic plants and crops will be cultivated across three states of Ogun, Oyo, and Kogi. Also, 1,250 youths and women will be engaged across the value chain with each earning over 1 million Naira yearly,” he explained. The main crops and plants include lemongrass, basil, thyme, ginger, and turmeric.
Preliminary work has commenced at the locations involving Food Industrial Park Abeokuta (FIPA), Tede Agri Industrial Cluster (TAIC), and Food Industrial Park Lokoja (FIPAL).
Director of Business Analysis for Nardus Limited, Abisola Keke, expressed confidence that the alliance would achieve the set goals of returns on investments, employment generation, and more prosperous value chain players.
“We have successfully processed lemongrass, basil, bamboo leaves, and water hyacinth in the past. And we are scaling up as the distillation equipment is expected by mid year,” she said.
Fast-rising financial platform designed to simplify global money management for Africans at home and in the diaspora, Raiz, over the weekend, announced that it processed a total of $2.6 million in transaction volume within just 90 days. Launched earlier this year, Raiz empowers users with USD banking, real-time currency exchange,
international and cross-border local payouts and collections, smart budgeting tools, and virtual cards, all accessible from a single, easy-to-use app. In a statement from the management, the company said its quick traction is a strong signal of user confidence, platform reliability, and the pressing need for seamless cross-border financial solutions tailored for modern Africans.
According to the CEO and Co-founder of Raiz, Segunfunmi Oyedele, “This milestone validates what we’ve believed from the start; the world is going borderless, and Africans should not be left behind.
“Hitting $2.6 million in processed volume within 90 days is not just a number; it’s proof that our product is solving real problems.”
In a beautiful show of community spirit and compassion, Terra Seasoning Cube has announced the selection of its highly anticipated Unwrap Smiles Squad, a group of five passionate individuals chosen to lead acts of kindness within their communities.
Last year, Terra Cube captured hearts nationwide with its Unwrap Your Smile campaign, where a woman was given a store makeover. At the time, many thought that was the high point, but true to form, the brand continues to raise the bar.
The Unwrap Smiles Squad campaign launched with a nationwide call for entries, inviting people to share how they would spread joy and smiles in their cities. The response was nothing short of remarkable. Hundreds of thoughtful, inspiring entries
poured in, revealing a country rich in empathy, generosity, and the enduring belief that small acts can spark lasting impact.
Following a rigorous review and selection process, five outstanding change-makers have emerged, each representing their city and community across the country. Adding an extra layer of excitement, Terra Cube Brand Ambassador, Chioma Akpotha, took to her social media to congratulate the newly selected squad members. In her words, “Welcome to the League of Joy Spreaders, the League of Smile Givers, the Good Vibe Only Champions. I’m so proud of you all. Let’s get ready to unwrap smiles together.”
Probal Bhattacharya, Chief Marketing Officer, TGI Group, shared his excitement about the
initiative, stating, “We believe brands have a responsibility beyond their products. We exist to serve communities, connect people, and uplift lives.
The Terra Unwrap Smiles Squad represents that spirit, showing how meaningful initiatives can have major impacts and unwrap smiles across communities.”
For years, Terra Seasoning Cube has built a reputation not just for delivering rich, quality flavour to Nigerian kitchens but for consistently investing in people-centric initiatives.
The Unwrap Smiles Squad is a natural extension of that legacy. Each squad member will receive resources and support to implement their kindness projects within their city, reinforcing Terra’s mission to add value both on the plate and in people’s lives.
Kayode Tokede
The shareholders of Chemical and Allied Products Plc have approved a final dividend of N2.40k per 50 kobo ordinary share, amounting to a total dividend payout of N1.9 billion for the 2024 financial year.
Reviewing the company’s performance at the 60th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held recently in Lagos, its board Chairman,
Mr. Folasope Aiyesimoju said the company reported a 52 per cent year-on-year increase in revenue to N36.4 billion, up from N23.9 billion in 2023. The company reported that its profit before tax rose by 60 per cent to N6.1 billion, while gross profit reached N14.8 billion, a 64 per cent increase over the previous year.
Aiyesimoju, attributed the strong performance of the company to the skill and
dedication of its employees, trust and entrepreneurial zeal of its trade partners and the continued patronage and support from customers. He stated, “A core theme for the year was elevating the experiences of our customers to drive growth. As a business, we will continue to expand our product portfolio, enhance operational efficiency, and strengthen our customer base.”
CAP Plc’s Managing Direc-
tor, Mrs. Bolarin Okunowo, provided further insight into the company’s financial results stressing, “2024 was another positive year for our Company. Our financial performance, amidst an unpredictable macro-environment, once again reflected the resilience of our business model and our capacity to thrive in spite of the challenges. In our resolve to embrace growth and deliver exceptional results, we
continued to adapt our strategies, strengthen our operations, and remain customer focused. Our retail network grew to 137 stores, we expanded our factory capacity, and we diversified our product portfolio, which included the launch of new products to cater to the mid-tier market segment.”
She also spoke about the company’s outlook and future plans, stating, “We are deeply encouraged by the
stellar performance of our company in 2024 and will focus on expanding our product offerings and increasing our market share in our target segments. We remain committed to delivering high quality products and services that exceed our customers’ expectations and leveraging technology to transform our operations and drive the growth and profitability of the business.”
L-R: Group Chief Executive Officer, MTN, Ralph Mupita; Chairman, Access Holdings PLC, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede; South Africa’s Minister of Communications and Digital Technology; Club Owner, Kaizer Chiefs FC, Jessica Motaung; Chief Executive Officer, NBA Africa, Clare Akamazi; Group Executive, Strategy, MTN, Chika Ekeji; and Board Member, NBA Africa, Tunde Folawiyo, at the Basketball Africa League Championship in Pretoria, South Africa… recently
The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) is set to hold its Biennial National Convention in Enugu from June 26 to 29, 2025, themed - “Building A Secure And Cohesive Nigeria: The Role of Dialogue, Inclusion And The Media."
In a statement signed by its President, Mr. Eze Anaba and the General Secretary, Dr. Iyobosa Uwugiaren, the NGE said that the convention will bring together over
400 editors, including prominent figures such as Prince Sam AmukaPemu, Publisher of Vanguard; Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, former Presidential Spokesman; Prince Nduka Obaigbena, Chairman/ Editor-in-Chief of THISDAY/Arise News Channel, and Dr. John Momoh, Chairman of Channels Television.
The convention will be declared open by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji
Mohammed Idris Malagi.
The Executive Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, will serve as the Chief Host, while Dr. Momoh will chair the convention.
Prince Amuka-Pemu, Chief Osoba, and Chief Ugochukwu have been assigned roles as Fathers of the Day.
The Director-General of the State Security Services (SSS), Mr. Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, will deliver the keynote address, titled ‘’Nation's
Security Future: Harnessing Diversity for Peace/Stability and the Media's Role.’’
The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, will also be at the national convention as special guest.
On the importance of the theme, the NGE emphasized that a nation's security and stability can be enhanced by leveraging its diversity, and that the media plays a crucial role in
Author and staunch supporter of the Bola Tinubu administration, Reno Omokri, has disputed an assertion by the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, that the current government has borrowed more money compared to all its predecessors.
In a statement Omokri argued that Tinubu has actually reduced Nigeria's national debt from $108.2 billion on May 29, 2023, to $94.2 billion today.
“President Bola Tinubu is rather too lenient. If he does not make a scapegoat out of fake news peddlers, they will eventually do irreparable damage to Nigeria's economy, Omokri wrote.
promoting this goal.
The Guild noted that diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation, and that inclusive governance ensures that all segments of society are represented and included in decision-making processes.
The NGE highlighted the media's social responsibility in promoting diversity, tolerance, and understanding, while also highlighting the importance of
national security and stability.
“The media can achieve this by highlighting diverse perspectives and experiences, combating hate speech, misinformation, and stereotypes, and fostering dialogue and understanding among different groups’’, the statement added.
The three-day convention will also witness the election of new executives who will pilot the affairs of the professional body for the next two years.
Laleye Dipo in Minna
He urged Obi to verify the debt data from the Debt Management Office's website or the International Monetary Fund (IMF) website.
“In Nigeria's history, only two civilian governments have been able to reduce the nation's indebtedness: the Obasanjo administration and now the Tinubu government. This is not the first time Peter Obi has told such monumental Goebbelsian lies targeted at destroying Nigeria's image,” he argued.
According to Omokri, Obi had to apologise for a previous public comment that the National grid had collapsed, when, in fact, it had not collapsed, and was instead experiencing
Omokri argued that if not because Tinubu is lenient, the remarks should have led to Obi’s prosecution for alleged cybercrimes and economic sabotage.
increased capacity.
He listed the others as Obi allegedly saying that Tanzania had produced so much energy that it had met all its power needs and had to shut down its dams.
“Tanzania shut its dams after Cyclone Hidaya flooded its major dams. At the time, Peter Obi was spreading lies that they had met their power needs, when in reality, Tanzania was facing nationwide power blackouts”, he stated.
He recalled that in 2024, Obi said that it was a national disgrace for Nigeria to receive wheat donations from Ukraine, but failed to tell Nigerians that Egypt, a country he visited, praised, and urged Nigeria to learn from, also received
grain donations from Ukraine. It is more dependent on Ukraine for its wheat than Nigeria.
Omokri listed other alleged instances as: when Obi allegedly said that a subsisting court judgment ordered the release of Nnamdi Kanu, and President Tinubu refused to obey it; his alleged 'I studied marketing at Harvard' remark and the claim that he loves Muslims.
He also picked holes in Obi's alleged January 14, comments that Tinubu paid for 1411 people to attend #COP28 with government money. “The truth is that only 422 of Nigeria's delegates were publicly funded, and not all of those publicly funded were financed by the Presidency,” he stated.
Operatives of the National Drug Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have arrested another businessman, 44-yearold Ezemokwe Chukwuebuka, at the Port Harcourt International Airport (PHIA), for ingesting 53 wraps of cocaine while on his way to Tehran Khomeini, Islamic Republic of Iran.
This is barely two weeks after a 60-year-old businessman Chinedu Okigbo heading to Iran with 65 pellets of cocaine in his stomach was caught at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano.
The spokesman of NDLEA, Femi Babafemi said Ezemokwe was arrested at the Port Harcourt airport on Saturday 7th June while
trying to board Qatar Airways flight QR1434 flying to Tehran Khomeini in Iran, via Doha.
After a body scan proved positive to ingestion of illicit drug, he was placed on excretion observation during which he expelled 53 wraps of cocaine in six excretions with a total weight of 1.172 kilogrammes.
He said the suspect claimed to have gone into the criminal trade two years ago, moving between the West African sub-region and Iran.
He disclosed that similarly NDLEA operatives at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Lagos in the early hours of Saturday intercepted an Italy bound passenger Edobor Ali on an Air France flight.
He noted NDLEA officers in collaboration with the Aviation Security of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), discovered drug consignments hidden in the luggage of the suspect during baggage scanning at the tarmac.
He said the suspect was thereafter brought down from the aircraft for baggage identification after which a thorough search of the bag led to the discovery of 14,410 pills of tramadol 225mg and 200mg concealed in winter jackets. In his statement, Ebodor said he lives in Italy where he was hired and sent on the all-expense paid trip to Nigeria to courier the drug consignments to Milan, Italy for a fee of 2000 Euros.
Babafemi said at the Onne Port, Rivers State, NDLEA operatives last Friday intercepted a shipment of 157,800 bottles of codeine-based syrup worth over N1.1 billion in street value, during a joint examination of a watch-listed container with men of Customs Service and other security agencies.
The opioid consignments were hidden behind 257 cartons of ceramic sanitary wares.
He said at least three suspects: Friday Achibong, 47; Abraham Anthony, 21; and Utibe Okon, 24, were arrested last Thursday 12th June when NDLEA operatives raided a warehouse in Obereakai, Odukpani local government area, Cross River State, where a total of 2,687 kilogrammes skunk, a strain of cannabis, was recovered.
Persons displaced as a result of the recent flash flood and are presently being quartered in Schools in Mokwa Town of Niger State are to leave the Internally Displaced Persons Camps within the next one week.
Not less than 3088 persons were displaced by the May 28 flood which ravaged three communities in Mokwa town.
As at the last count, 207 people have been confirmed dead as a result of the catastrophe
THISDAY learnt that preparatory to ejecting the displaced persons from the camps, their documentations commenced last Wednesday and continued through the weekend.
It was gathered that no fewer than 500 households have been documented in readiness for their leaving the camps.
According to findings, the state government is to provide funds for the IDPs to rent accommodations in Mokwa Town.
It was not known how much the government will be releasing to the people but an official who was among those carrying out the documentation said the "money will be for house rent and feeding" adding they may be in the rented houses until both the federal and state governments complete the construction of new houses for them as promised.
The federal government, it would be recalled, donated N2bn to the victims for their resettlement while on its part the Niger State Government gave N1bn apart from 100 trucks of food items pledged by the FG and 50 trucks of edible items by the state government.
In addition, the state government
is to construct the Mokwa to Raba Road already washed off which the contract valued at N7bn had been awarded.
It could however not be confirmed as at press time if these pledges have been fulfilled.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago speaking on Arise television midweek confirmed government’s lack of interest in people staying in IDP camps.
"The state government understands that keeping people in IDP camps is not okay; people will not live like human beings there" Governor Bago told the TV station. "IDP camps we have frowned at them at all levels of government we want to transition them to the town" he further said Meanwhile, the Taraba State Government has joined the league of sympathisers visiting the government and people of Niger State over the Mokwa flood disaster with a delegation from the state led by the senator representing Taraba Central, Senator Manu Haruna, calling at Government House, Minna to extend the condolences of the state government over the flood disaster during which the Taraba government donated N50m to the appeal fund Senator Haruna described the flood as "a monumental loss and a national disaster" adding that "Taraba State Government shares in the grief of the government and people of Niger State, especially the affected families".
Former Niger State Governor Dr Muazu Babangida Aliyu during a similar visit expressed deep sorrow over the tragic event and extended his heartfelt condolences to Governor Bago and the good people of Niger State.
L–R: Deaconess Oluwatoyin Isiaka; Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Deputy Governor of Ogun State; and Prince Gboyega Nasir Isiaka (GNI), during the Turbaning/Conferment Ceremony of GNI as the Seriki Adinni of Yewaland, held at the Ansar-Ud-Deen Playing Ground, Imeko, Ogun State, yesterday
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The Economic Community of West African States on Sunday announced plans to organise a summit: “the Future of the Community,” to strategize on life without exited member statesBurkina-Faso, Mali and Niger Republic.
This move trails the exit of the three francophone countries, who have since formed Alliance of Sahel States, Relations between the three countries and other members of ECOWAS got broken following the
rejection of undemocratic change of government in the now AES states.
Already, the Committee on Administration and Finance of the commission has commenced a three-day, mid-term evaluation of the sub-region’s implementation of the programmes and activities of the Community's institutions.
The committee which is sitting in Abuja will also look at the difficult financial situation of the Community and the state of recruitment within the institutions.
Speaking at the opening of the 37th ordinary meeting of the CAF, on Sunday, the Vice President of the Commission, Madam Damtien Tchintchibidja, called for speedy reforms needed to adapt to the current reality of the withdrawal.
Tchintchibidja said: “Today's meeting is part of a twofold dynamics: on the one hand, that of the commemoration of the fiftieth anniversary of ECOWAS and, on the other, that of the official withdrawal of three of our member states.
“One of the lessons learnt from the commemoration of our fiftieth anniversary and those learnt from the departure of the three member states is that it is essential and imperative for us to speed up the institutional, organisational, political and security reforms needed in order to adapt to the new realities. I therefore appeal to your sense of responsibility so that together we can undertake the necessary reforms.
“It is in this spirit that I am pleased to announce the forthcoming
Bassey Inyang in Calabar
The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has rested the controversy surrounding the execution of a road project in Nyanghasang community, Calabar Municipal, Cross River State.
An attempt by the federal government to commission the road project on the pretext that it was a constituency project of the Cross River State Senatorial District sparked serious outrage as officials of the state government intervened, and put the records straight.
Owing to the controversy surrounding the actual executioners of the road project, the NDDC has refuted claims that it is responsible for
the construction of the Nyanghasang community road project, saying the road project was that of the Cross River State Government.
Speaking to journalist in Calabar, the Commissioner representing Cross River State on the Board of the NDDC, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, while attributing the controversy surrounding the Nyanghasang Community Road project to attempts to downplay the contributions and initiatives of the Cross River State Government, said the road was not one of the projects captured for execution by the commission.
According to Duke, the Nyanghasang Community Road is a project of the Cross River State Government, and not that of
the NDDC.
He emphasised that the project’s origins dated back to the administration of former Governor Liyel Imoke and continues under the current Governor Bassey Out administration, who is actively intervening in road infrastructure across the Nyanghasang community.
Duke reinforced the state government’s earlier position, laying to rest speculation over the project’s ownership.
“If anyone is in a position to clarify this issue, it is me. I represent the NDDC in this state, and I am fully aware of all NDDC projects as captured in our budget....
“I want to categorically reiterate that the Nyanghasang Road project
is not an NDDC initiative. From inception to this point, the entire effort has been undertaken by the state government,” Duke said.
He criticised attempts by some federal lawmakers to take undue credit for state-led projects, describing it as a tactic to siphon public funds, and mislead constituents.
“Some individuals from the Senate came in, hurriedly asphalted a section of the road, and tried to claim ownership to divert funds. There is no Bill of Engineering Measurement and Evaluation (BEME), voucher, or award letter to substantiate their claim.
It is unfortunate that Cross River is being used as a smokescreen for financial misappropriation,” Duke asserted.
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
President Bola Tinubu on Sunday rejoiced with former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar as he clocks 83.
The President, in a tribute described General Abubakar whose regime midwifed the Fourth Republic in May, 1999, described the four-star General as an elder statesman and patriot of uncommon integrity whose service inspired generations of Nigerians in public life.
He lauded his steadfast commitment to peace, stability and good governance across the African continent.
President Tinubu in the birthday tribute stated, inter alia: "I celebrate the 83rd birthday of former Head of State and elder statesman, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd).
"I salute him for his decades of exceptional service to Nigeria, both in uniform and in retirement, and commend his steadfast commitment to peace, stability, and good governance
across the African continent.
"General Abubakar's legacy, particularly his role in leading Nigeria through a peaceful transition to democratic rule in 1999, remains a watershed moment in the nation's history. His selfless act of handing over power paved the way for Nigeria's Fourth Republic and strengthened the principle of constitutional democracy.
"As Chairman of the National Peace Committee, General Abubakar has continued to play a significant role in promoting dialogue, defusing
tension, and ensuring credible electoral processes in Nigeria.
"His voice of moderation, reason, and statesmanship is deeply valued in a time where unity and leadership are more critical than ever.
"He is a patriot of uncommon integrity whose service inspires generations of Nigerians in public life.
"As he marks another year of life, Nigeria honours his sacrifices, wisdom, and unyielding devotion to the peace and unity of our great nation.
organisation, in accordance with the decisions of the Heads of State and Government, of a Summit on the Future of the Community.”
She further said that “prior consultations will be organised, including with young people and women, to take into account all the needs for the future of the Community.”
Speaking on the importance of the CAF meeting, she said: “As you know, our organisation is currently going through an existential crisis and in such circumstances, we must sit down together, pose and examine the problems and challenges facing us without complacency and together redouble our efforts to find appropriate solutions.”
Tchintchibidja noted that ECOWAS is currently “at a crossroads, and this calls for a strong capacity to overcome the obstacles that stand in the way of integration and to project ourselves into the future,” stressing the need for the regional body to recognize the importance of unity.
She added that: “But beyond all
that, we must be aware and recognise that our strength lies in unity, solidarity and fraternity. Indeed, moving forward together on the road to development, in peace and stability, is priceless.” She also emphasized that “In many ways, this Golden Jubilee has been a time for collective reflection, introspection and assessment of our achievements, strengths and challenges. It has also enabled us to start looking to the future.” She said: “I would like to remind you that ECOWAS is all of us: you here today, me, and all the citizens of our community space. It lives through our collective commitment, our solidarity, our fraternity and our shared desire to build a more prosperous and forward-looking region, hence the theme of our Golden Jubilee: ‘Stronger together for a better future’ On his part, Chairman of the ECOWAS Committee on Administration and Finance, Ambassador Olawale Awe, called on ECOWAS to fast-track the process of filling the gaps left behind by the three departed states.
Don't Allow Troublemakers
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Hon. Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to intervene and prevent those planning to cause trouble over the fresh ruling by the Court of Appeal, Akure Division, on the local government election conducted on October 22 in the state.
Oyintiloye, a member of the defunct APC Presidential Campaign Council (PCC) who made the plea while speaking with newsmen on Sunday in Osogbo, said that the ruling delivered by the court on Friday had started generating tension across the state.
The APC Chieftain said that while the Court of Appeal in its wisdom struck out a request by APC to relist its appeal against the 2022 Federal High Court that nullified local government elections, the court did not nullify the judgement delivered on February 10, which reinstated the party's chairmen and councillors.
Oyintiloye, a former lawmaker,
said the misinterpretation given to the ruling by Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the state government may result into crisis across the 30 local government areas in the state, if not quickly checked. He said the interpretation given to the ruling by the state government that they now have the control of the local government areas and the planned invasion of the secretariats on Monday will result into crisis.
The APC cheiftain said that the crisis is obvious because the elected APC chairmen and councillors would resist any unlawful invasion of the secretariat, which they are currently occupying.
Oyintiloye said that the only way the crisis could be averted is for Tinubu to intervene by ordering the deployment of more security agencies to the state.
He said the loss of lives during similar crisis on Feb. 17, was still fresh in the minds of the residents, adding that such should not be allowed to happen again.
L–R: Founder/CEO,
Segun Awofadeji in Gombe
There was palpable tension, yesterday, as Northeast consultative stakeholders’ meeting in Gombe, endorsed President Bola Tinubu for the 2027 presidential election but was silent on the VicePresident, Senator Kashim Shettima. Unfortunately, this development ended the meeting in physical attacks over exclusion of Shettima in the proposed joint ticket for the 2027 general election.
The three zones of the Northern region – the Northwest Northeast and northcentral – appear to be in strong contention for the nation’s number two seat in the 2027 elections.
While the Northwest thinks it always churns out the highest votes in every election and therefore deserves it, the northeast’s argument is that they deserve the right of first refusal, having run the first term with the president in 2023. But the central is of the view that it
is the zone in the north that has always been handed the short end of the stick in every election permutation, despite always giving its all, and therefore demands a compensation with the number two seat in 2027.
Fortunately, for Shettima, all the three Northeast All Progressives Congress (APC) governors. – Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State, Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State and the host, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State – concluded their
speeches endorsing the joint ticket with Shettima as running mate to Tinubu in 2027 election.
In addition, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the APC and the National Assembly caucus of the party also endorsed the joint ticket of Tinubu-Shettima for the 2027 elections.
Yet, trouble started when the National Vice Chairman of the APC in the Northeast zone, Comrade Mustapha Salihu, did not mention Shettima in the joint ticket during his speech. NE,
Gideon Arinze
Enugu State First Lady, Mrs. Nkechiyere Mbah, has concluded her familiarisation tours across the three senatorial zones of the state during which she received massive support and warm receptions from royal fathers, women groups, professional bodies, youths and political stakeholders.
This was even as she promised to empower more women and prepare them for economic opportunities through skills acquisition and vocational trainings, while also continuing to prioritise the education
of the less-privileged children.
Speaking at Awgu, Enugu West Senatorial District, during the weekend, the First Lady, who had previously visited Amagunze and Nsukka, where she met with women, youths, and leaders of Enugu East Senatorial District and Enugu North Senatorial District, respectively, said the familiarisation tour was part of her commitment to reaching every part of the state and listening to the voices of the people.
“This familiarisation visit is an opportunity to connect with you and understand your unique challenges and aspirations. It is also a chance
to celebrate the unity and diversity that define our people.
“I am deeply impressed by the spirit of togetherness and the collective efforts of your leaders and stakeholders, who have continually worked to promote peace and development in the zones,” she said.
She lauded the contributions of the 17 local government areas that make up the three senatorial zones, noting their historical roles in building the economic and political foundation of the state.
The wife of the governor also commended the zones for their consistent dedication to peace,
unity, and social progress, and praised women of Enugu State for their tireless efforts in moving their families and communities forward.
Her words: “As I meet with stakeholders and the womenfolk from this district, I am reminded of women's critical role in community development and social transformation. Through your efforts, families are nurtured, businesses thrive, and communities grow stronger.
“I am, therefore, committed to supporting initiatives that empower women, enhance their skills, and provide platforms for their voices to be heard in decision-making.
The former minister of aviation, Dr. Kema Chikwe has described late Professor Jubril Aminu who passed on last week as “a national icon.”
Chikwe, in a tribute to Aminu yesterday said his intellect, integrity, and influence shaped generations and transformed institutions in Nigeria and beyond, and that his passing marked the end of a monumental chapter in Nigeria’s history.
Chikwe, who was Nigeria's Ambassador to Ireland, stated: “I join other associates of Professor Jubril Aminu not only to mourn his passing but to celebrate the life of an extraordinary Nigerian. Professor Aminu was more than a scholar; he was a national compass. As minister of education, he envisioned an
equitable and progressive system that empowered minds and bridged social divides. Later, as Minister of Petroleum, he steered one of Nigeria's most critical sectors with exceptional competence, transparency, and patriotic foresight.”
Ambassador Chikwe said the reforms Aminu implemented laid foundations that are still felt today in Nigeria.
Chikwe continues in the tribute: “Yet, perhaps, Aminu’s greatest legacy lies in the quiet, determined way he mentored others. To thousands, he was a teacher. To many more, he was a father figure, a counselor, a voice of reason in turbulent times.
He believed in excellence, discipline, and service above self - and he lived
those values until the very end.
“The late Professor Aminu was one of the closest friends of my late brother-in-law, Ajie Ukpabi Asika, and his wife, my eldest sister, Chief Mrs. Chinyere Asika. By extension, he became a cherished friend to our entire family. When he, as Minister of Education, sought to publish his visionary speeches on education in Nigeria, my sister introduced me to him.
“At the time, Dilibe Onyeama and I were on the planning committee for the first Enugu International Book Fair and served on the executive committees of both the Publishers Association and the Association of Nigerian Authors.
“Dilibe, being a well-known
author, was introduced to my sister and to Professor Aminu to collaborate on the project. Although Dilibe later withdrew from the project, I continued working on it. After editing the manuscript, I submitted it to Heinemann for publication. David Ogbodo, Professor Aminu's dedicated and resourceful Special Assistant, provided all the necessary logistics.
“Despite my several trips to Heinemann in Ibadan and my best efforts, the book was unfortunately never published due to circumstances beyond my control. Nonetheless, Professor Aminu recognised my intellectual potential and encouraged me. May Almighty Allah grant Aminu’s soul eternal rest.”
A majority of the delegates in the hall started shouting Shettima! Shettima!! Shettima!!!
Salihu could barely finish his speech when he was physically confronted on stage by one of the diehard supporters of Shettima causing commotion with chairs being thrown from one end of the hall to the other in the presence of dignitaries, party stalwarts and delegates.
This had quickly caused pandemonium in the entire hall of the International Conference Centre, Gombe, venue of the meeting.
The commotion which lasted over twenty minutes could not be fully calmed even when the National Chairman of the APC, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, concluded his speech without categorically mentioning Shettima on the joint ticket.
He, however, appealed for more unity stressing that the party was highly interested in the northeast.
According to him, the party got 1.2 million votes during the 2023 presidential election and expects over a triple of that in 2027. However, another account claimed that Governor Yahaya was actually not in support of the joint ticket but could not summon the courage to openly oppose it as the host.
According to him, Hon. Usman Kumo, Chief Whip of the House, representing Kumo Federal Constituency, from Gombe State, endorsed the ticket on behalf of the North-East House of Reps Caucus. From the senate, Senator M.T. Monguno, Chief Whip of the Senate, representing Borno North, endorsed the joint ticket on behalf of the Senate from the North-East while Hon. Ali Bukar Dalori, Deputy National Chairman (North) spoke on behalf of the other National Working Committee (NWC) members from the North East.
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting elderly citizens from various forms of abuse, including neglect, physical, emotional, and financial abuse within the territory.
It urged residents of the FCT to report suspected elder abuse using the phone number - 09164059609 or email geriatriccarehsesfct@gmail.com.
It said the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES) plans to upgrade geriatric services, train frontline health workers to detect and respond to abuse, and collaborate with community and religious leaders to raise awareness and uphold the dignity of older people.
This assurance was given by the Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES), Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, in commemoration of the 2025 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), celebrated under the theme “Beyond Age.”
A statement signed the Special Assistant (Media) to Fasawe quoted her as having said that WEAAD, provided an opportunity to raise awareness about the often-silent abuse
of older persons and to promote the protection of their rights and dignity.
She noted that under the leadership of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, the FCTA is actively supporting elderly residents through initiatives like the *Renewed Hope Initiative Support for the Elderly*, which aims to improve their overall wellbeing.
According to her, the Secretariat also supported the maiden edition of the initiative, spearheaded by the Office of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, which provided free medical screenings for elderly persons in Abuja.
To mark the 2025 WEAAD, Dr. Fasawe urged residents, community leaders, and health professionals to value older citizens for their experiences and contributions.
She advised the public to watch for signs of abuse such as unexplained injuries, fearfulness, sudden financial changes, and withdrawal and report concerns to the appropriate authorities.
She further called on federal ministries, NGOs, CSOs, and development partners to work with the FCTA in advancing policies that prevent exploitation, improve social inclusion and mental wellbeing, enhance access to care, and establish effective reporting and support systems for abuse cases.
L–R: Consultant Haematologist, Alimosho General Hospital, Dr. Adebukola Orolu; Assistant Director, Medical Laboratory Service, Lagos State Blood Transfusion Service (LSBTC), Mrs. Davies Folorunso; Executive Secretary, LSBTC, Dr. Bodunrin Osikomaiya; Corporate Service Manager, Fidson Healthcare Plc, Temitope Akindele; and Founder, Timilehin Leukaemia Foundation (TLF), Modupe
the
commemorate Y2025 World Blood Donor Day in Lagos State, weekend
Chuks Okocha in Abuja Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, SERAP, has urged President Bola Tinubu to promptly set up a presidential panel of enquiry to investigate the unlawful annulment of the elections of June 12 1993 and to identify those suspected to be responsible for the deliberate violations of Nigerians’ democratic freedoms.
SERAP urged Tinubu to direct the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, as a defender of public interest, to bring to justice anyone responsible for the unlawful annulment of the elections of June 12 1993, regardless of their political status or affiliation.
Also, to direct Fagbemi to urgently draft and send to the National Assembly an executive bill to amend the Electoral Act 2022, including making the electronic transmission of election results mandatory and allowing access of every voter to election documents.
SERAP urged him to direct Mr. Fagbemi to immediately discontinue all the cases of Nigerians arrested, detained and facing unfair
prosecutions solely for peacefully exercising their human rights, including participating in peaceful protests.
The president had, in his speech at the National Assembly to mark Nigeria’s Democracy Day, expressed commitment “to rededicate ourselves to the ideals of June 12; freedom, transparent and accountable government, social justice, active citizen participation, and a just society where no one is oppressed.”
In the letter dated June 14, 2025, signed by SERAP Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “These expressed commitments won’t be enough unless your government demonstrates the political will to combat impunity for the annulment of the June 12 elections and advance Nigerians’ democratic freedoms.
“No one is above the law, and there is no statute of limitations for violations of democratic freedoms.
The ‘ideals of June 12’ cannot be achieved, and real democracy cannot flourish in Nigeria without electoral accountability, democratic and human rights reforms and strict obedience to the rule of law.
The letter read in part: “Amending
Segun Awofadeji in Gombe Gombe State Governor, Alhaji Muhammadu Yahaya, expressed deep sorrow over the tragic electrocution incident that occurred in the early hours of yesterday, at Tudun Wadan Pantami in Gombe metropolis. It claimed the lives of five persons, including Permanent Secretary in the state’s Ministry of Special Duties and Regional Integration, Alhaji Muhammad Kulani.
Yahaya described the incident as heart-breaking and a colossal loss, not only to the immediate families of the deceased, but also to the entire Gombe State.
He stated, "I received with profound sadness the devastating news of the tragic electrocution incident that occurred in the early hours of Saturday, 14th June 2025, in Tudun-Wadan Pantami, which led to the death of five individuals and left several others injured.
"This heart-wrenching incident, reportedly caused by a high-voltage surge from a nearby electricity transformer, has plunged our state into mourning.
“The demise of Alhaji Yusuf Kulani and others in such a devastating incident is deeply painful. Alhaji Kulani was a diligent, disciplined, and patriotic officer who served our dear state with integrity and commitment.
“The loss of such valuable lives, including other promising citizens, is a painful blow not only to their immediate families but to the entire Gombe State.
"Let me assure the affected families and the general public that we will collaborate with relevant authorities to ensure a thorough investigation into the root cause of this tragedy and take all appropriate measures to prevent such heart-breaking incidents from recurring.”
The governor said, "On behalf of the government and people of Gombe State, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of all those who lost their lives in this tragic event.
“May Allah grant the souls of the deceased eternal rest in Aljannat Firdaus and give their families the fortitude to bear the huge loss. I also pray for the quick and full recovery of those who sustained injuries."
the Electoral Act to make the electronic transmission of election results mandatory and allow access of every voter to the results would ensure free, fair and transparent elections and improve public confidence in the electoral process.
“Impunity for the annulment of the June 12 elections has continued to encourage politicians to undermine the country’s elections and deny Nigerians their right to political participation and other human rights.
“Addressing impunity for the unlawful annulment of the June 12 elections and ensuring electoral and human rights reforms would improve Nigeria’s electoral process and citizens’ right to participate in their government in free, fair and transparent elections.
“Directing Mr. Fagbemi to immediately discontinue all the cases against Nigerians facing prosecutions solely for the peaceful exercise of their human rights would strengthen democratic freedoms and improve
respect for human rights and the rule of law.
“SERAP also urges you to direct Mr Fagbemi to urgently draft and send to the National Assembly an executive bill to amend all antifreedom of expression laws, including the provisions of the Cybercrimes Act and criminal defamation and injurious falsehood provisions in the Criminal Code and Penal Code.
“We would therefore be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within seven days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall consider appropriate legal actions to compel your government to comply with our request in the public interest.
“Our requests are brought in the public interest and in keeping with your expressed commitment to Nigeria’s Democracy Day, the requirements of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended], and the country’s international
human rights obligations.
“SERAP notes that section 74(1) of the Electoral Act only grants access to election documents to ‘parties to an election petition’. SERAP believes that the provision should be amended to allow every voter to access election documents to promote free, fair and transparent elections.
“The right to access election documents should give rise to claims under section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution and the Freedom of Information Act.
“SERAP notes and welcomes your expressed commitment made in your speech in commemoration of Nigeria’s Democracy Day, including to ‘rededicate ourselves to the ideals of June 12: freedom, transparent and accountable government, social justice, active citizen participation, and a just society where no one is oppressed.
“SERAP is concerned that antifreedom of expression laws such as the provisions of the criminal
defamation and injurious falsehood provisions of the Criminal Code and Penal Code continue to be used to target, arrest, detain and unfairly prosecute journalists, activists, critics and other Nigerians peacefully expressing their views.
“SERAP is also concerned about the use and potential chilling effect of strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs) law enforcement and security agencies and politicians to intimidate and harass journalists, activists, critics and other Nigerians simply for the peaceful exercise of their human rights.
“The combined effect of your expressed commitment, the Nigerian Constitution, your oath of office, and country’s international human rights obligations is the requirement for your government to combat the lingering impunity for the annulment of the June 12 elections, and advance the democratic freedoms and human rights of Nigerians.”
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has formally informed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of its plan to convene a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on June 30.
In a letter dated May 30 and addressed to the INEC Chairman, acting National Chairman of PDP, Umar Damagum, informed the commission that the 100th NEC meeting would hold on June 30 at the national secretariat of the party in Abuja.
The notification was in line with INEC’s regulations requiring a 21-day notice before any NEC meeting to decide on issues, like the national secretary and others.
The letter, with reference number PDP/DOM/GF.2/VOL.1J/25-078, was received by INEC on May 30.
The letter was titled, “Notice of 100th National Executive Committee Meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party,” and it read in part, “We write to formally inform and invite INEC that the leadership of our great party, PDP has scheduled our 100th NEC
meeting to hold on Monday, June 30, 2025 at the National Secretariat of our party, Wadata Plaza, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja.
“This is for the commission’s information and necessary action, please. While thanking you for your usual cooperation, kindly acknowledge receipt of this letter and please accept the assurances of our highest regards.”
The embattled national secretary of the party, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, did not sign the letter
A fortnight ago, friends of Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, had cautioned that any move made without involving or recognising Anyanwu as the national secretary would be considered invalid and could worsen the ongoing crisis within the party.
However, an insider disclosed that Damagum took the initiative to write to INEC at the 100th NEC meeting in line with the decision made at the 99th NEC meeting.
The insider said, “The letter is in order. The 99th NEC had already scheduled and announced June 30 as the date for the 100th NEC meeting.
“Due to many unresolved issues from the last meeting, the party had to write INEC ahead of the next NEC meeting to ensure the commission was involved in efforts to address those pending matters.
“Don’t forget that the 99th NEC set up the National Convention Committee and the Zoning Committee and assigned other responsibilities. So, the upcoming meeting will approve and populate the committees, as well as receive reports where necessary.
“Apart from that, the 100th NEC may also take decisive action to resolve the dispute over the national secretary position and is expected to ratify the zonal congresses, among other key matters.”
Attempts by THISDAY to get across to Anyanwu to know why he did not sign the letter failed, as he did not take his calls.
Damagum said he would hand over a more united party to the next National Working Committee (NWC) after the national convention.
He also said he resisted attempts to factionalise the party, stating, “Today, the PDP has only one national
secretariat, despite attempts to establish another factional secretariat for the PDP'. We have weathered the storm. All attempts to factionalise the party has failed. We have no factional secretariat anywhere.
“We will have our national convention and I, as the acting national chairman, will hand over a more united party to the next national executive that will come in Kano. I know what we encountered from different interest groups on the party.
“But with wisdom, we weathered the storms. After the June 30 National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting and, subsequently, the national convention, PDP, as a brand, will come up more united and stronger.” On speculations that he was planning to defect to All Progressives Congress (APC), where he will contest the governorship election, Damagum described the story as fake.
He said the story was not strange to him, as it was the handiwork of his political opponents in Yobe State, who wanted to rubbish his name. He said there were political dead woods in the state behind such story.
L–R: Managing Director/Chief Strategist, Chain Reactions Africa, Israel Opayemi; President, African Public Relations Association (APRA), Arik Karani; Group Corporate Communications and Events Manager,
Temitope Ashiwaju; and President, International Public Relations Association (IPRA), Esther Cobbah, during the SABRE Africa Awards held in Mombasa, Kenya, where Chain Reactions received four awards for its work in delivering measurable and impactful communications for its clients in Kenya… recently
Outrage as wanted terrorist kingpin engages Katsina communities in peace deal ONSA-NCTC, PAVE network move to strengthen local ownership, capacity in Nigeria NAF expedites procurement process for 12 new ah-1z viper attack helicopters
Michael Olugbode, Linus Aleke in Abuja and Francis Sardauna in Katsina
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has reiterated the need for a whole-of-society approach to combating terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other criminalities in the country.
The CDS also urged Nigerians to contribute to the fight against criminality by sharing intelligence with security agencies, promoting patriotism, and loving Nigeria.
Equally, yesterday, there was anger in Katsina State following the engagement of a wanted terrorists kingpin, Ado Aleru, in a peace deal with residents of Danmusa Local Government Area of the state.
At the same time, in a bid to deepen the domestication and implementation of the Policy Framework and National Action Plan for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PF-NAP) across Nigeria, the PCVE Knowledge, Innovation and Resource Hub (KIRH) would host a Training of Trainers (ToT) in Kano and Sokoto states.
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) said it was expediting the procurement process for 12 new AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters from Messrs Bell Textron, a United States manufacturer, to ensure
their delivery in the shortest time possible. It said the helicopters would enhance air interdiction against terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal elements across Nigeria.
Speaking at the seventh edition of Silent Heroes Award in Abuja on Saturday, Musa appealed to Nigerians to contribute their quota to the ongoing fight against insecurity in the country.
Represented by Chief of Defence Civil-Military Affairs, Rear Admiral O. A. Bankole, the CDS expressed worries over the increasing numbers of citizens at Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps.
The special guest of honour recalled visiting an IDP camp 20 kilometres from Makurdi, housing over 12,607 people, including about 6,000 children.
Bankole stated, "I need to mention that at this point in time, Nigeria needs silent heroes. Nigeria needs patriotic citizens. Nigeria needs dedicated citizens, more than ever before.
“Now we need people that are committed. We don't really need people that you need to blow their whistle and whatever, but in the silent corners of your room, in your office, let us love Nigeria, let us be patriotic.
"Last week, the CDS sent me to an IDP camp. There is this IDP camp about 20 kilometres from Makurdi, and when
Mary Nnah
A national coalition of NigerianAmerican physicians, health advocates, and community leaders, the Nigerian Physician Advocacy Group (NPAG), is offering practical solutions and proven talent at a time when the US is facing a critical shortage of doctors, especially in rural and underserved communities. NPAG just wrapped a successful two-day Advocacy and Lobby Day on Capitol Hill, where they met with bipartisan members of Congress to advocate common-sense visa reforms that would allow qualified doctors to serve where they are needed most.
A press release made available to THISDAY by the group, noted the delegation was warmly received by every office they visited, including Congressman Jonathan Jackson, Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester, Congressman James Baird, Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Congressman
Dan Crenshaw, and Congressman Chris Smith, highlighting the broad, cross-party support for solutions that strengthen America’s healthcare system.
At the heart of this effort is a legacy of service built by Dr. Ihenacho Emeruwa, who founded the Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas (ANPA) over 30 years ago.
His vision, to empower Nigerian doctors to serve with excellence both in the US and in Nigeria, has shaped generations of medical professionals committed to health equity and global partnership.
Today, NPAG continues that mission, ensuring the voices of Nigerian-American doctors are heard in policy conversations that directly impact patient care.
“Doctors from Nigeria are not just part of the system, they are the backbone of it,” said Dr. Susan Edionwe, who led the NPAG delegation. “They serve in the toughest areas, rural towns, inner cities, and underserved counties. And they do so with excellence, compassion, and commitment.”
I got there, we counted 12,607 people in that IDP camp. It says a lot of things.
“It's not that we have a full-fledged war; we have insecurity. I agree. But if you have 12,607 people in a camp, about 6,000 children, it says a lot. So we need to love ourselves, and that is why gatherings like this is important.
"Let us all know those who are heroes. But just like I mentioned, all of us are heroes in our own respective places. Let's shine the light. Nigeria has a lot of prospects. Let's radiate whatever God has given us. Nigeria is a blessed country."
In her address of welcome, Project Coordinator of Silent Heroes Awards Initiative, Seventh Edition, Mrs. Ozioma Sonia Odita-Sunday, said, “Silent Heroes Awards identify, honour, and celebrate those whose contributions to humanity are both significant and selfless and often made in the absence of recognition, applause, or acclaim.”
Outrage as Wanted Terrorists Kingpin Engages Katsina Communities in Peace Deal
There was resentment in Katsina State yesterday, following the involvement of a wanted terrorist kingpin, Ado Aleru, in a peace deals with residents of Danmusa Local Government Area. Aleru, who was declared wanted by Katsina State Police Command in 2020 for terrorising Katsina and Zamfara communities, attended a meeting in
the Bichi community of Danmusa with other terrorist leaders to explore ways of ending terrorism in the area.
The Saturday peace meeting, which sparked outrage and concern among residents of the state, was also attended by personnel of the Nigerian Army, Danmusa local government officials, traditional and religious leaders, as well as farmers in the area.
During the peace parley, Aleru was seen in a video clip addressing the gathering on measures to be taken by the government, herders, farmers and other communities to ensure peaceful coexistence in the banditry-ravaged local government.
But a top government source, who was against negotiations with terrorists in the state, described the resurfacing of the terrorist kingpin, who had been on the police watch list for over four years, as an attempt to evade justice.
In a chat with THISDAY, the source added that involving the terrorist leader in a peace deal might undermine government's ongoing efforts to tackle security challenges in the state “because he is not sincere in all his dealings”.
The source said, “Ado Aleru was declared wanted by the police in this state under the leadership of CP Sanusi Buba. The command even placed a N5,000,000 bounty on his head for anybody with useful information that could lead to his arrest.
“He (Aleru) has made himself
available now, they should go and arrest him to face the wrath of the law, but certainly not to negotiate with him because he is not sincere.”
However, the Commissioner for Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mua’zu, told BBC Hausa that Aleru and seven other terrorist leaders had voluntarily renounced terrorism and surrendered their arms to the security agencies.
Mua’zu said the terrorist kingpins renounced their nefarious activities during a peace parley and had since released 17 hostages, who had been handed over to their relatives.
He added that the terrorist leaders had also vowed to release all the abductees in their custody for peace and development to thrive in the local government.
In a bid to deepen the domestication and implementation of the Policy Framework and National Action Plan for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PF-NAP) across Nigeria, the PCVE Knowledge, Innovation and Resource Hub (KIRH) was scheduled to host a Training of Trainers (ToT) in Kano and Sokoto states.
In a statement, Mr. Ade Atambi of PAVE Network, said the four-day training
programme, scheduled to take place from June 16 to June 21, aimed to empower stakeholders with the tools, frameworks, and strategic capacities required for sustained, community-based, and evidence-driven PCVE programming. According to the statement, participants included officials from relevant state ministries, departments, and agencies, local government administrators, House of Assembly members, security agencies, community and traditional leaders, civil society organisations, and state PAVE network representatives. The statement said, “The simultaneous training in Kano and Sokoto states is part of ongoing efforts to promote peace and community resilience in the North-west region. The PCVE KIRH, an initiative of the PAVE Network, is working in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser - National Counter Terrorism Centre (ONSA-NCTC) and other strategic partners, with support from ActionAid Nigeria and funding from the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund (GCERF).
“The training programme will feature interactive technical sessions, panel discussions, and practical planning exercises, led by seasoned facilitators and subject matter experts. The event is expected to provide a platform for multi-stakeholder collaboration, cross-state learning, and mobilisation for sustainable peace and community resilience.”
Sylvester Idowu in Warri
High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, has thrown his weight behind President Bola Tinubu’s bid for re-election in 2027, describing him as a visionary and transformational leader, who deserves another term to consolidate his achievements.
Tompolo’s endorsement was contained in a goodwill message delivered on his behalf by Mr. Edgar Daniel Biu at a press conference, weekend, organised by PBAT Door-To-Door Movement held at the NAF Conference Centre, Abuja.
He stated that the Tinubu administration had recorded remarkable successes that had
positively impacted various sectors of the country's economy and promoted national unity.
Similarly, a foremost group in the South-south, Coalition of Niger Deltans for Equity and Justice (CNDEJ), advised the northern coalition led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Ex-Kaduna State governor, Malam Nasir El'Rufai, against truncating the re-election of Tinubu in 2027.
The group warned that there would be no peace should the northern coalition achieve its aim of denying the sitting president and in turn the southern part of the country of serving its eight years tenure as enshrined in the constitution.
CNDEJ, in a statement signed by its spokesman, Meshach Bebenimibo,
stated that Tinubu would surely complete his first tenure and win the re-election, to complete his eight years in office.
According to Tompolo, the president’s economic reforms have not only rescued the national economy from imminent collapse but also improved the ease of doing business and fostered shared prosperity.
He highlighted the prevailing peace and stability in the Niger Delta, attributing it to the president’s commitment to development and security in the region.
Tompolo commended the Tinubu administration for its decisive action against crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and sea piracy, which
had disrupted oil production and stifled socio-economic growth in the past.
He expressed confidence that Tinubu would achieve even more in a second term, urging Nigerians to rally behind the president to ensure continued delivery of democratic dividends. Tompolo PBAT Door-To-Door Movement was aimed at mobilising nationwide support for Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. He stressed that collective participation and unity of purpose were crucial to the success of the mission. He called on members of the movement to stay committed to its noble objectives declaring, “Together, we will succeed. We cannot afford to fail.”
L-R: Registrar/Chief Executive, Chartered Risk Management Institute of Nigeria, (CRMI), Victor Olannye; Head of the Risk Management Division, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Mrs. Grace Abioye; immediate past President, CRMI, Ezekiel Oseni; President, CRMI, Kevin Ugwuoke; Director Enterprise Risk Management, Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Mrs. Amal Haruna, and Deputy Group Managing Director, United Bank of Africa (UBA), Chukwuma Nweke, CRMI conferment handover/sent-forth ceremony in Lagos…recently
Linus Aleke in abuja
The Grand Patron of Ijaw Youth Congress and ex-House of Representatives aspirant, Prince Collins Eselemo, has kicked against a sinister plot by some security experts of Itsekiri origin to blackmail President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s led federal government into jettisoning the existing contract with Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited to provide
round-the-clock security for oil infrastructure in the maritime environment.
He also warned those behind the sinister move to delink the security of pipelines from the controversies surrounding the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ward delineation of Warri Federal Constituencies, as well as claims and counterclaims to the ownership of some ancestral lands.
Amby Uneze in owerri
As Nigeria gears up for the 2027 general election, a new group known as the ‘Renewed Hope Consolidation Mandate Efforts’ (RHCME), has been formed to canvass support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Explaining the motive for setting up the group, Founder and National Coordinator, RHCME, Rt. Hon. Kelechi Kennedy Nwagwu, told THISDAY that they are overwhelmed by the many transformational progress made by the Tinubu’s administration in just two years and believed that if another term is given to him, he would change the narrative of Nigeria development.
He said: “The RHCME aims is to consolidate the gains of the Renewed Hope Agenda, further entrenching President Tinubu’s vision for a prosperous and developed Nigeria. With a focus
on delivering tangible results and improving the lives of Nigerians, the mandate efforts are poised to make a significant impact.”
Nwagwu stated that the group is centred around several key areas, including: sustenance of economic growth, reducing poverty, and improving the standard of living for Nigerians, strengthening law enforcement agencies and promoting community policing to ensure the safety and security of Nigerians, as well as prioritising infrastructure development, including road construction, energy generation, and water resource management.
According to him, as the 2027 general election approaches, Nigerians can expect to see the fruits of the Renewed Hope Agenda. With the RHCME leading the charge, President Tinubu’s vision for a prosperous and developed Nigeria is set to become a reality,.
The traditional ruler of Ifetuntun in Ife South Local Government Area of Osun State, Oba Taofeeq Osunmakinde, has petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IG), Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, over alleged threat to destroy the community.
The monarch, who spoke with journalists in Akure, the Ondo State capital, at the weekend urged the IG to investigate and apprehend the perpetrators of unrest stemming from the ongoing border dispute between Ife and Ijebu over the 30-mile land area known as Ifetuntun.
He said: “We are appealing to the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun. We have submitted petitions with evidence to his office, as
well as to the Osun State and federal governments, to come to our aid. We are law-abiding citizens and cannot take the law into our own hands. We seek justice and government intervention.”
The monarch alleged that some top government officials are threatening to level Ifetuntun, noting that armed hoodlums are beginning to take control of the community while Amotekun, “acting on behalf of the commissioner, is victimizing law-abiding citizens.”
He also claimed that a group of hoodlums had been harassing residents along the federal road connecting Ife South to Ijebu West. He said the hoodlums have been extorting money from passersby, claiming to be acting on behalf of the state government.
Addressing a press conference in Abuja yesterday, Prince Eselemo reminded those scheming to truncate Tompolo’s contract with the federal
government to understand that Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has provided employment to hundreds of youths of the Niger
Delta, irrespective of tribe or cultural affinity, stating that its employment policy is an example of employment in diversity, equity, and inclusion.
He also noted that the Land Use Act empowers governors to issue certificates of occupancy to landowners within their jurisdiction.
A chartered accountant, taxation expert and Convener of the Blakey’s National Economic Conference, Chief Blakey Okwudili Ijezie, has called on Nigerians to adopt a new approach to navigating the country’s cost-of-
Omon-Julius Onabuinasaba
Leaders and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta North senatorial district have resolved to strengthen its mediation and conciliation machinery in order to forge greater unity, and chart a harmonious roadmap for
living crisis.
Delivering a keynote address on the theme, ‘Surviving and Thriving: Navigating Nigeria’s Cost-of-Living Crisis through S.M.A.R.T Investing’, at the conference held over the weekend in Lagos, Ijezie painted a stark picture of the reality facing Nigerians, citing skyrocketing prices
ensuring overwhelming victory for the party’s candidates particularly in 2027.
At a well-attended meeting and rally of the Delta North APC leaders and members held at IdumujeUgboko, the country home of the Senator representing the district in the National Assembly, Senator
of essential commodities, stagnant salaries, and a general sense of economic desperation.
According to him, “We meet at a time when the average citizen wakes each morning with more fear than hope. The cost-of-living crisis is no longer an economics textbook line; it is the defining hardship of our generation. “Let me bring this home, a single tuber of yam now costs N3,000, up from N800 two years ago. A 50kg bag of rice has tripled to N75,000, and that’s not even premium. School fees are now paid in instalments, not by policy, but by desperation.”
‘Ned Nwoko, at the weekend, the party unanimously passed vote of confidence in President Bola Tinubu, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Senator Ned Nwoko, as respective candidates of the APC, in the next general election in the country.
These were parts of a successful motion at the meeting, which also
indicated a generally welcome disposition of the people of the district at encouraging and supporting the ongoing efforts towards the realization of the Anioma State agenda, which Senator Nwoko - sponsor of the state creation Bill - described as ‘A done deal’.
Sunday Okobi
In a bold push for stronger collaboration across human, animal, and environmental health systems, the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), Lagos chapter, has called on the Lagos State Ministry of Health to adopt
the One Health paradigm to tackle public health threats, particularly antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and zoonotic diseases.
The call was made yesterday during a courtesy visit to the state Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, by the leadership of NVMA Lagos, led by its
Chairman, Dr. Ofua Mark, and the immediate-past President of the Commonwealth Veterinary Association, Dr. Olatunji Nasir.
In his address, Mark highlighted the urgency of a united front between the veterinary and human health sectors, citing Lagos’s vulnerability to emerging public health crises such as AMR and zoonoses. He said: “We come with a shared vision: to safeguard the health and well-being of Lagosians. We are sitting on a keg of gunpowder with the indiscriminate use of antibiotics in animals and humans.”
Oluchi Chibuzor
Executive Director and Chief Risk Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc, Mr. Kevin Ugwuoke, has formally assumed office as President of the Chartered Risk Management Institute of Nigeria (CRMI), with a reform-driven agenda focused on policy advocacy, ethical standards, and digital innovation to deepen risk governance across sectors in Nigeria.
Speaking during the presidential handover ceremony held in Lagos at the weekend, Ugwuoke, who also doubles as Acting President of the Federation of African Risk Management Associations (FARMA), described his emergence as “a call to action,” and pledged to reposition
CRMI as a thought leader and institutional partner in Nigeria’s national development discourse.
He said:“Our mission is beyond certification. It is about building national consciousness around risk governance. We will engage policymakers, raise awareness, and provide practical tools to help organisations institutionalise risk intelligence at all levels.” Ugwuoke announced a fivepronged strategy anchored on: strengthening professional certification and education; deepening regulatory engagement; accelerating digital transformation; integrating ESG and climate risk into corporate strategy; and promoting youth engagement in the risk management profession.
The Spokesperson to the Osun State Governor, Mallam Olawale Rasheed has lambasted the Managing Director of National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, for pushing out false statement on the recent decision by the Appeal Court on the local governments issue, noting that no amount of misguided twist will change the legal reality of the sack of the officials.
Mallam Rasheed, in a statement, accused Mr Oyebamiji of a deliberate attempt to misled the public on a judgement that is clear forward, saying that contrary
to the impression the Ikire-born politician tried to sell, the Appeal Court affirmed the judgement of the Federal High Court, Osogbo, on the sacked APC chairmen and councillors.
Mallam Rasheed lashed at Mr Oyebamiji for trying to capitalise on the ignorance of his party members to shore up his failing aspiration, dismissing him as a false alarmist out to heat up the polity with blatant falsehood and should be ignored by the public.
“It is shameful that someone who is aspiring to govern a state could stoop so low to misrepresent Friday’s decision of the Court of Appeal in order to cause confusion and possibly, create a crisis.”
Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) has inaugurated Alhaji AbdulGaniyu Mustapha as the 6th Chairman of its Sokoto district society.
At the investiture ceremony, ICAN’s National President, Mallam Haruna Yahya, charged the new chairman to uphold professionalism, integrity, and national development. Yahya, represented by the Northern Zonal Chairman,
Ibrahim Alkali, commended the outgoing leadership for maintaining high standards of professionalism and upholding the institute’s values. He enjoined the new leadership to build on this foundation by embracing innovation, enhancing digital competence, and strengthening global partnerships. Yahya emphasised the crucial role district societies play in fostering professional excellence and community development.
Togolese professional, Ayao Mawouli, on Saturday emerged the winner of the third eTranzact Golf Classic, a Professional Golfers’ Development (PGD) Tour event concluded at Lakowe Lakes Golf Club in Lagos. Mawouli, dethroned Francis Epe, who missed the half way cut at the event. He shot 72, level par and 68, four under par to tower above the field of 88 players that competed for the title.
The event was reduced to a 36 holes play after rain denied the players of the closing round when Professional Golf Development Tour Commissioner, Femi Olagbenro declared the course unplayable due to prolonged downpour.
Rukayat Bola Mustapha from Ikoyi Club 1938 and Blessing Abdul from St Mark Golf Club, Otukpo both tied at +14 over 158 for the ladies’ bragging right and the winner’s cheque.
The Managing Director eTranzact, Niyi Toluwalope, noted that the rule had to be applied to allow the event official presentation to proceed.
He said: “It’s a good thing to rain, and we have aligned with our event partners, the Professional
Golf Development Tour who have aligned with the rulebook on the best decision in this circumstance..”
He also mentioned that eTranzact was proud at the level of interest the event had garnered from across Africa, given the number of countries that were represented at this year’s event
Al
Ahly midfielder Emam Ashour will miss the remainder of the 2025 Club World Cup after scans confirmed he had suffered a broken collarbone, the Egyptian club announced yesterday as the FIFA’s new 32-team tournament got off to a smooth start in front of 60,927 fans in Florida
Ashourleft the opening match of the revamped competition against Inter Miami, which ended in a goalless draw, in tears after injuring his shoulder.
“Medical examinations on Emam Ashour in a Miami hospital showed he sustained a broken collarbone, and he will miss the remaining matches in the Club World Cup,”
Al Ahlydoctor Ahmed Gaballah said via the club’s account on X. Ashour, who had previously suffered a serious shoulder injury while playing for the Egyptian national team in 2024, initially fell early in the game and received treatment on the sidelines before returning briefly and missing a
“Our leadership in the fintech space has given us the perspective we brought to this youth and sports development space and we intend to continue to expand on the leverage the eTranzact Golf Classic gives the African youth.”
Mawouli’s cumulative 140 score earned him the title as he pocketed
the N10.2million winner’s cheque, leaving former Nigeria’s number one player, Kamalu Bako to settle for the runner up cheque of N6million.
Ivorien Kouakou Richard-Kouame finished in third place, while a threeway tie between Ibrahim Ocheje, Oche Odoh and Jean-Romaric Kouassi shared the fourth place.
Olawale Ajimotokan
Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Chairman, Otunba Gbenga Elegbeleye, in a recent review of the 2024/25 season passed a vote of confidence in the performance of the Referees and called for a sustenance of the improvement in the new season. Speaking during an interactive session with journalists while reviewing the 2024/25 NPFL season, Elegbeleye said their performance can be rated on the same scale with their counterparts globally.
“I’ve travelled around the world and witnessed some shocking officiating decisions—something you hardly see in the NPFL. That’s why I can confidently say our referees are among the best globally”, he asserted.
He attributed the marked improvements in the performance of the Referees as a reason those appointed to continental competitions discharged their duties with high marks which has in turn opened more opportunities for their colleagues. He cited the last Confederation of Africa Football (CAF) U-20 Championship in Egypt and noted that, “at the U-20 Championship in Egypt, a Nigerian referee was involved, and another has been shortlisted for the upcoming WAFCON. This shows clear progress.”
While admitting that there was still more work to do in perfecting the system, Elegbeleye was of the opinion that continued support for training and retraining is required to sustain the gains attained so far.
The grand-finale of the Spires 5-Aside Naija Street Soccer divisional tournament in Epe will linger in the minds of football fans for a while. The showdown between eventual winners Papa SA and Net Breakers presented a nine goals thriller to hundreds of ecstatic spectators at the STS Pitch in Bogije along the Lekki-Epe Express Road on Saturday. Both teams put forth offensive approach as Kehinde Usman, Gbenro, and Elijah Adesanya who scored a brace each gave good accounts of themselves in the colors of Net Breakers FC.
However, Anifowoshe, and Al Ameen both got a brace each before a brilliant strike by Toheeb secured the title for Papa SA who also recieved a prize money of N500,000 as champions. Net Breakers smiled home with the
sum of N300,000 as runner-up. Olaodus FC defeated Peckins football club 2-1 on penalty shootout in the losers final. The coach Oluwaseyi Agbaje tutored side got a consolation prize of N100,000. Elijah Adesanya of Net Breakers FC received N50,000 as the tournament top scorer with 7 goals, while a total of 54 goals were recorded across eight matches.
All three teams from first to third will represent Epe division in the state championship later in the year.
The initiator of the Spires 5-Aside Naija Street Soccer Tournament, Dr. Bankole Allibay, said the organisers will continue to prioritize the welfare of the participating teams as well as uphold the highest professional standards in all areas of the competition.
one-on-one chance. However, the 27-year-old Egyptian Premier League top scorer was unable to continue and asked to be substituted in the 14th minute, being replaced by Ahmed Sayed(Zizo).
Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano was upbeat despite his Lionel Messi-led team drawing 0-0 with Egyptian side Al Ahly.
Messi was denied a storybook stoppage-time winner when he saw his curling shot from 20 yards out tipped onto the bar by Mohamed El Shenawy as Miami piled on the pressure in the final minutes
of the game.
“The truth is we leave with the feeling that we could have won it in the second half,” said Mascherano. Elsewhere, yesterday, Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich hit double figures against Auckland City in Cincinnati to record the biggest 10-0 win in the history of the Club World Cup.
Vincent Kompany’s side outclassed the New Zealand part-timers, with Jamal Musiala scoring a hat-trick and Thomas Muller grabbing two goals as his long farewell to the club continued.
Bayern took the lead through Kingsley Coman’s sixth-minute header as the floodgates opened early.
Italy have appointed former midfielder Gennaro Gattuso as their manager.
The AC Milan legend replaces Luciano Spalletti, who announced his own sackingat a news conference last week.
Gattuso, 47, made 73 appearances for Italy and was a member of their 2006 World Cup-winning squad, and will now lead his country into the same tournament 20 years later. Italy won Euro 2020 but failed to qualify for last summer’s tournament, and have also not made it to the past two World Cups.
A 3-0 World Cup qualifying defeat by Norwayon 6 June sealed Spalletti’s fate.
The Italian football federation (FIGC) confirmed Gattuso will be presented to the media on Thursday.
“Gattuso is a symbol of Italian football,” FIGC President Gabriele
Gravina said.
“The blue jersey is like a second skin for him. His motivations, his professionalism and his experience will be fundamental to best face the upcoming commitments of the national team.
A glamorous playing career saw Gattuso represent Rangers and AC Milan, among others. He is most known for his time with Milan, winning the Serie A title and Champions League twice across a 13-year spell.
Since retiring from his playing days in 2013, Gattuso moved into management - and Italy will mark the 10th team he has managed in just 12 years.
The longest period he has stayed at any club has been two seasons with then third-tier Italian side Pisa, who he tasted the most success with.
The Chairman of the Nigerian National League (NNL) Board, Mr George Aluo, has commended the standard of play in the just concluded 2024/ 2025 regular season which climaxed over the weekend with the emergence of eight teams for the Super 8 play off.
Speaking after watching one of the last games of the regular season, the veteran journalist turned administrator said: “I’m so excited that the regular season which kicked off with lots of excitement has ended on a high. The reports across all the venues in terms of standard of play, officiating and fans conducts are quite inspiring and commendable. Although it’s not a perfect league of our dream yet, but we are all happy that it has moved to another level where teams win at away and losing teams accept defeat without skirmishes.
“I must commend the maturity of our players, coaches and the fans for raising the bars of our second tier League. We are making steady progress and by God’s grace we shall get to the promised land where only the best will emerge as victors and champions.”
Aluo also commended the performance of the eight teams that emerged for the Super 8, declaring that it is a sign of good things to come in the play off.
“I must say a big congratulations to the eight teams that emerged for the play off. The cutting edge competition, zeal and high standard that characterized the regular season is a strong indication that our league has really come of age. While it is still work in progress, we have shown that with the right attitude, determination and collective resolve, nothing is impossible.
When the clouds gathered above Mokwa at the start of the 2025 rainy season, no one reached for a weather almanac; the townspeople needed only memory. They had seen the river climb its banks before, had watched water swirl down gullies that doubled as rubbish dumps, and had heard radio callers warn—almost cheerfully—that nature’s annual rehearsal was underway. What they had not felt was the sensation of genuine safety. So, when the torrents finally broke their modest records, they landed on a place that had already surrendered its defences.
Mokwa was never merely a location on a map; it was a warning sign blinking for years. The tragedy that unfolded in June 2025, claiming over 1,300 lives—including 700 children—was not a bolt from the blue. It was the inevitable result of chronic neglect, dysfunctional planning, and a dangerous culture of silence. Entire families disappeared. Homes, schools, businesses, and a critical section of Nigeria’s railway infrastructure were annihilated. Yet this devastation was neither mysterious nor accidental. It was a known risk that was allowed to fester.
Long before the flood, experts had flagged Mokwa as a high-risk area. Ecologists had pointed to the fragile river systems and deforested buffers. Meteorologists had issued forecasts highlighting changing rainfall patterns driven by climate change. Urban planners had warned that the unchecked spread of informal settlements, many of which were constructed directly on floodplains, was a disaster waiting to happen. But the alarms were met with bureaucratic shrugs. No concerted response, no clear regulatory enforcement, no serious public communication. For years, federal, state, and local governments took turns ignoring the looming threat, focusing instead on short-term political expediency over long-term risk reduction, turning what should have been manageable seasonal flooding into a lethal disaster.
When the rain finally came, it did what water always does: it followed the path of least resistance. River Dingi, a seasonal tributary typically dry outside the rainy season, transformed into a violent, swelling force. The natural channels it once used had been blocked by construction and waste. The drainage systems designed decades ago had long ceased to function. Many had been filled with silt, others narrowed by illegal buildings, and almost all were incapable of handling the volume of rain driven by climate-induced extreme weather events.
The town’s land surface—stripped of trees and
vegetation—could no longer absorb runoff, accelerating the scale and speed of the flooding. There had been no meaningful enforcement of zoning laws. No incentives to dissuade illegal building. No functioning flood management systems. No early-warning network tailored to local conditions. When the floods came, they revealed not just the weakness of physical infrastructure but the collapse of institutional responsibility.
A nearby agricultural dam, weakly constructed and poorly maintained, gave way, sending an additional torrent crashing towards an already drowning town. And while Nigeria’s major dams—Kainji and Jebba—remained intact, the lack of effective communication from their operators only added to the confusion and delayed emergency responses. The human cost was staggering: bodies swept away, children separated from parents, people clinging to rooftops as the water swallowed everything below.
Yet beneath this devastation lies something far more painful: the awareness that it did not have to be this way. Mokwa’s flood was not a punishment from nature—it was the price of inertia. It was what happens when government institutions become deaf to science and blind to their own responsibilities. It was a consequence of fragmented governance, where agencies overlap but do not collaborate, plans are drafted but never implemented, and illegal structures mushroom in full view of regulators without consequence. Still, the story must not end in despair. Tragedy can be a turning point, if only we have the courage to transform grief into resolve. In the ashes of destruction lies a rare chance for a complete reset—not just of infrastructure, but of the governance systems that allowed this to happen. Mokwa can become a model of what post-disaster resilience should look like in Nigeria and beyond. And it has already started.
To its credit, the Niger State government has initiated a commendable response. Governor Bago has promised to literally build a new town in Mokwa. This is real leadership. Roads are being constructed to serve as resilient evacuation routes in the event of future emergencies. The state is building 200 brand-new homes, featuring flood-resilient designs, solar-powered electricity, and communal layouts designed to promote safety and cohesion. Healthcare and educational institutions are being built.
This reset must begin with a new planning philosophy— one that acknowledges climate change not as an abstract threat but as a force that is already reshaping Nigeria’s landscape. Rebuilding is not the same as transformation.
of by the Constitution.
First to appear before the panel should be the most visible office of the Fourth Republic, i.e. the Presidency. Among the questions that should be posed to it are: democratic temperament, tolerance of criticism, antidemocratic short fuse, overarching ambition to dominate political space, preoccupation with re-election, tenure elongation bids, keeping their political party on a short leash, dining with their political party with a long spoon, frowning more often than smiling, art of presidential comic relief, oratorical skills, engaging intellect, razor-sharp vision, Philosopher-King status, subjugation of National Assembly, dislike for the mass media, underhand meddling with the Judiciary, distrust of labour unions and civil society groups, faith in foreign governments, deep respect for foreign firms, love for attending ceremonies abroad, tendency to take citizens for granted, predilection to repeat mistakes of the past, desire to use EFCC and ICPC to bully state governments, arrogating to itself the extra-constitutional role of “Party Leader” and in that capacity, determining the candidates to field at all levels, orchestrating a system of Garrison Politics, meddling in the affairs of opposition parties, dictating to the electoral commission what results to write, appointing Principal Officers of the National Assembly, instituting a “banana peel” system to oust all disloyal National Assembly leaders, and renaming every refurbished building after the President. Next to appear before the High Panel should be the National Assembly, represented by its leadership. It should be asked questions about why National Assembly is unpopular with the public, docility in pursuing its constitutional powers, numerous personal allowances for MPs, an outsized budget for the legislature, budget delays, budget padding, oversight function, constituency projects, working for only three days a week when civil servants must work for five days, unguarded utterances by some MPs, long motorcades for principal officers, preoccupation with return tickets, distributing rice, fertilizer and irrigation pumps to constituents, scandals every now and then, and also why some MPs do not say anything on the floor in four years.
Next to appear before the High Panel should be ministers. The Marking Scheme for ministers should include why they regard some portfolios as juicy whereas others are seen as dry, ministers’ political antecedents, energy, political weight, thoughtfulness, presence of mind, cheerfulness, language fluency and media savvy, conception of visionary policies and
programs and their successful implementation, why some ministers are barely visible, frequent financial and political scandals, unguarded utterances, tendency to sycophancy, bamboozling agencies under the ministries, quarrelling at home with governors and hankering after higher positions.
Next to appear before the High Panel should be the Judiciary. Judges are used to sitting on their benches, wearing white headgear and forcing litigants, accused persons, defendants, prosecutors, lawyers, court clerks, policemen and bailiffs to face them, bowing to them and calling them My Lord. For a change, they must now shed their wigs and sit in the witness box in front of our High Panel to answer questions about their performance, or lack of it, in the 26 years of this Republic.
The Marking Scheme for judges’ examination should include why they still wear wigs more than six decades since independence, why they call themselves My Lord when they are not God, why they call it Common Law when it is actually elite law, why they still write in long hand, why justice is much delayed, why courts adjourn too many times, why there is more technicality than justice in courts, why the discrepancy between what happens to a small thief and what happens to a big one, reason for slap in the wrist judgements for powerful people, ruthlessly partisan ex-parte orders, too many interim injunctions, contradictory orders by courts of coordinate jurisdiction, and subservience of state high courts to state governments.
Next to appear before the High Panel are State Governors, who are the most powerful and the most visible actors in this Republic after the Presidency. The Marking Scheme for their exam should include questions about concentration of power in their hands, unilateral control of contract awards, the jettisoning of Tenders Boards and financial rules, lush security votes, disregard for rules in civil service appointments and sackings, the advisory nature of the budget law in the sense that governors pick and choose what they want to implement, funding of unbudgeted projects, usurping local government funds through the Local Government Joint Accounts; jettisoning of constitutional requirement that Local Governments should be run by democratically elected councils, irregular holding of local government elections, relegating state assemblies to rubber-stamp status, converting traditional rulers’ life tenure to temporary tenure, anointing successors, and elevation of self to Godfather status at the expiration of tenure.
If we truly want to make Mokwa a symbol of resilience, then we must go further. Urban growth must now be risk-informed, and urban planning must transition from a reactive to a proactive approach. Land-use zoning needs to be enforced with seriousness and consistency, especially in areas historically considered flood-prone.
Informal and illegal settlements must be regularised, relocated, or reimagined with proper infrastructure. Natural ecosystems—such as river buffers, wetlands, and tree belts—must be restored and protected, not sold to the highest bidder. Drainage systems must be overhauled and engineered for the climate realities of today, not the assumptions of 30 years ago. Traditional engineering solutions must be complemented by nature-based infrastructure, such as reforestation, rain gardens, and permeable paving.
Additionally, resettlement policies must shift from a reactive to a proactive approach. People living in high-risk zones cannot be blamed or punished; they must be supported and relocated through inclusive, well-communicated programmes that provide safety, dignity, and economic opportunities. The new homes being built should set a benchmark—elevated foundations, flood-resistant materials, and solar power should become standard, not an exception. Also, communities must be placed at the heart of early warning systems. It is no longer enough to have rainfall predictions sitting in some government office.
Low-cost technologies, such as SMS alerts, local siren systems, and community radio broadcasts, should be utilised to inform and prepare residents. Schools must be reconstructed as safe learning spaces, not just buildings. Clinics must be resilient to climate extremes. Children who lost parents or homes must be given trauma support, scholarships, and a chance to dream again.
Schools and churches can be designated as evacuation centres with supplies pre-stocked. River levels should be monitored by trained local volunteers who can feed real-time data to emergency agencies. Education about flood risks should be embedded in school curricula, turning awareness into a generational skill.
The federal government must also play its part. It should take responsibility for high-cost infrastructure, such as river training, national flood modelling, and interstate water basin management. Climate finance—whether from development partners, carbon markets, or green bonds—should be mobilised aggressively to support Niger State and others like it in rebuilding better. The Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Water Resources, and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency must
Next, State Assemblies should appear before the High Panel, their Speakers, Majority and Minority Leaders and Whips appearing in wigs like copycat judges. The Marking Scheme is already set. Questions include anointment during party primaries, rubber stamp status in most states, passing budgets without any scrutiny, sleeping on their oversight powers, reluctance to check the excesses of governors, pestering governors for money, hajj seats, fertilizer, contracts and safe return tickets, and rejecting a constitutional amendment bill to make state assemblies financially autonomous.
Next, Local Government Councils, represented by ALGON, should appear before the High Panel. A Marking Scheme has already been drawn up in consultation with National Union of Local Government Employees, NULGE. Items in the marking scheme include what happened to the ALGON jeeps bought by one contractor for four billion naira in 1999 when a dollar was only N100, docility, unassertiveness and low impact of LGAs, agreeing to be LGA chairman or councillor when you were not elected, allowing your elected LG council to be dissolved when your term has not ended, standing idly by while governors usurp most of your council funds, operating the council for only one day a month when Federation Account money arrives, spending most of the time in the state capital and away from your councils, and obeying state governor’s order to fill buses with people and take them to the state capital for stage-managed political rallies.
Next to appear before the High Panel should be INEC. A marking Scheme for examining INEC must be prepared in consultation with donor agencies who provide a lot of the money, equipment and observers for the conduct of elections. Among the questions to be answered include printing of ballot papers in foreign lands, why we can’t distribute sensitive election materials through the Post Office as they do in India, infiltration of INEC ad hoc staff by politicians, scandalous conduct of some RECs, reliance on Road Transport Workers to distribute election materials, frequent delay in start of voting, glitches of card reader, BVAS and IREV, confusion in recognizing the legitimate leaders of political parties, delay in registration of new parties, the curious order of election with presidential election coming first instead of last, and also why, between 1979 and 2023, we gained only 40 hours in election declaration time despite the coming since then of digital typewriters, fax machines, photocopiers, personal computers, GSM, internet, smart phones, emails, Wi-Fi
harmonise their data and work together, rather than in silos. Niger State must enact and enforce zoning and building regulations. The local government must take community engagement seriously—not just in times of crisis, but every day. The private sector must also be drawn in, not just as contractors but as partners in resilience. What Mokwa teaches us is that flood does not recognise bureaucratic boundaries—and neither should our response.
Over the next twelve months, the focus must be on stabilisation: dredging the River Dingi, clearing blocked drainage, and providing clean water, health services, and shelter to survivors. Relief camps must be upgraded to include water, healthcare, and sanitation facilities. In the next three years, a comprehensive flood-risk master plan should be developed, unsafe settlements systematically phased out, and attention must turn to permanent solutions: new settlements away from risk zones, resilient schools and clinics, and a binding flood-risk master plan. Over the next five years, Nigeria must institutionalise what Mokwa has exposed—making flood risk management not a temporary intervention but a standing function of governance. Every state should have a mapped and budgeted disaster resilience plan. In the long term, climate finance must be harnessed to support green infrastructure. A new regional river-basin authority should be created to manage upstream land use and coordinate data across states. Flood education must be integrated into classrooms, and urban planning must become a core component of professional and political training. Every new housing development must pass environmental impact assessments. Every citizen should know what to do when the rains become a threat.
Mokwa cannot be allowed to fade from memory. It should haunt us, yes, but more importantly, it should teach us. This disaster reflects what happens when data is ignored, when illegal becomes normal, and when warnings are lost in the noise of bureaucracy. However, it also demonstrates what is possible when political will aligns with public need. If the momentum of recovery continues and systemic issues are addressed, Mokwa can be remembered not for how it drowned, but for how it rose. Let this be the moment we stopped rebuilding the same vulnerabilities and started designing for resilience. Mokwa must not just recover—it must lead. It can also serve as a blueprint—a place that rose from the waters not with hollow slogans, but with new systems, better infrastructure, and a public willing to hold leaders accountable.
and social media.
Next, State Independent Electoral Commissions [SIECs] should appear before the High Panel. Questions in the Marking Scheme should include why they are the institutional sick babies of the Fourth Republic, why no one takes them seriously, why in almost every state where local election is conducted, the ruling party in that state wins all chairmanships and councillorships, why there are calls to transfer their function of conducting local elections to INEC, why opposition parties always boycott local elections, and why state ruling parties that sweep all seats in local elections often lose in state-wide and federal elections conducted by INEC.
Next, political parties should appear before the High Panel and explain why, compared to First Republic political parties which commanded life-long loyalty of their supporters and compared to Second Republic political parties which were accused of over-mobilising supporters, the current political parties have no ideological direction, no policy platforms, no solid cohesion, no charismatic leadership, they cannot be told apart from one another, and too many Nigerians do not belong to any of them. They should also explain why there are too many brief case parties and why their number makes the ballot paper very long and confusing to voters.
Next to appear before the High Panel should be regional and geo-ethnic groups such as ACF, NEF, Afenifere, Yoruba Council of Elders, O’dua People’s Congress, Ijaw National Congress, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Middle Belt Forum, Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Conference, National Christian Elders Forum, MASSOB and IPOB, why all these groups did not exist in the Second Republic, why they are so prominent today when the Constitution does not allow them to sponsor candidates for elections, and why they usurp the role of political parties by telling voters how to vote. Finally, the Electorate should appear before the High Panel. They must explain why 92 million of them registered to vote in elections but only a third did so, how they choose who to vote for when 38% of them are illiterate and 50% of them live below the poverty line, why they accept soap and money from candidates in order to vote for them, why they make regionalism, religion, ethnicity, kinship, personal friendship and personal benefit the top guides in casting their votes, and why they elect a person into high office when he has no program to speak of.
