Say tax reforms to unlock fiscal space, spur infrastructure investment, job creation
Eromosele Abiodun and Nume Ekeghe in Washington, DC and
Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso and Minister of State for Finance
Doris Uzoka-Anite, yesterday, stressed that the bold reforms undertaken by the President
Bola Tinubu’s administration in the past two years have set a strong foundation for Nigeria to pursue the next
www.thisdaylive.com
DismissesAdviser Religious Persecution Allegations in Nigeria
Continued on page 5
2027: Defections Shake PDP, LP, ADC as Opposition Fights to Remain Competitive
Makinde: Only defection that matters is when hunger leaves Nigeria Suit against PDP convention: Court document reveals NWC approved Chris Uche's appointment as legal representative
Nigeria’s opposition parties are facing one of their toughest moments as a new wave of
their ranks and morale.
From the once-dominant Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the Labour Party (LP) and the newly formed political coalition, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), internal fractures and shifting loyalties are testing their survival instincts.
This comes as Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has
L-R: Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Mr. Jean-Noël Barrot; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and former Governor of the State, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, during the official launch of the Lagos State Waterways Authority, ‘Omi Eko project’ held in Lagos…yesterday
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
The Senior Adviser to United States President, Donald Trump, on Arab and African Affairs, Massad Boulos,
Chizoba Obiogbolu of Obiadada Comms Ltd, Anambra; Ijagwo Obi Onicha, Chief Onochie Ben Epundu; representative of Globacom, Tochukwu Okechukwu; GM, Seaman Ventures Ltd, Anambra, a Glo business partner, Chinedu Anaukwu, and Chief Nnaemeka Maduegbuna, Chairman, Ofala Strategic Marketing Communications Committee, at the ‘Evening With Glo’ event organised in honour of the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe in Onitsha…Thursday
Chuks Okocha and Alex Enumah in Abuja
defections continues to drain
Dangote Refinery: Drop in Crude Order Tied to Fluctuating Oil Prices, Not Facility Breakdown
Reveals over 22 sabotage incidents reported since launch Explains recent massive
The management of the 650,000 barrels per day Dangote Refinery in Lagos yesterday responded to reports that it slashed crude oil purchase by at least 50 per cent due to incessant breakdowns of the facility, saying that the action was a planned response to rising global crude prices.
Earlier, there were reports
said the only defection that truly matters in Nigeria is when hunger and deprivation finally leave the country. Reacting to the wave of defections from the PDP to the APC, Makinde said Nigerians should focus on issues that directly affect their lives rather than political realignments.
In his bi-monthly newsletter, Makinde stated that while politicians were busy switching parties, millions of Nigerians continued to struggle to afford basic necessities.
He said hunger, not partisanship, remains the real threat to national stability, stressing that “when hunger finally defects, prosperity will return.”
The governor also noted that the PDP must rebuild public trust and present a credible alternative capable of delivering relief where others have brought pain. Makinde urged citizens to stay focused and reject distractions, saying politics must serve humanity, not personal ambition.
“For me, the only defection
yesterday, has described allegations of religious persecution in Nigeria as misguided and inconsistent with the realities on the ground.
He affirmed that terrorism in the country was indiscriminate and affects citizens of all faiths and ethnicities.
Boulos, who met with President Bola Tinubu on the sidelines of the 10th Aqaba
IN
that the facility was buying a lot less crude lately amid operational setbacks. The reports said Dangote was expected to purchase fewer than 300,000 barrels a day of crude this month, referencing tanker-tracking data and cargo allocation lists.
Comprising both local supplies and imports, the report stated that crude inflow is currently down by more than 50 per cent from a peak in July,
that truly matters is the one that has not happened yet — the defection of hunger.
“When I was asked about this wave of political cross-carpeting in a recent press conference, I said, ‘I will only be moved when hunger defects into the APC.’ I meant every word of it, because while people are busy changing parties, Nigerians are struggling to afford the basic necessities.
“Families are being forced to make impossible choices daily. These are the real issues, not political realignment.
“We cannot continue pretending that everything is fine simply because someone in the government says so. What we are experiencing is the widening of inequality. While the rich are adjusting, the poor are sinking — and that is what must command our attention.
“It is hunger, not partisanship, that fuels frustration and hopelessness. Until we deal with that, every political drama will remain a distraction.”
Meanwhile, as controversy
Process Summit in Rome, told newsmen after the meeting that it was “unfortunate” that narratives of religious targeting were being promoted despite clear evidence that extremist groups such as Boko Haram and ISIS have killed more muslims than christians in Nigeria.
According to him, “terrorism has no colour, no relation, no tribe,” stressing that people
WASHINGTON, DC, CARDOSO,
phase of its economic agenda anchored on inclusive growth, job creation, and poverty reduction.
This comes as the federal government disclosed that the World Bank has designated Nigeria as a priority country to help showcase a Universal Health Coverage (UHC) COMPACT.
Cardoso and Uzoka-Anite, noted that Nigeria’s ongoing economic reforms have restored investor confidence, driving fiscal stability, and positioning the country as a key player in Africa’s growth story.
and less than half the plant’s capacity, expressing skepticism that the refinery can operate at a high rate going into 2026. It said the plant’s residue fluid catalytic cracker unit was due to restart this week after a hiatus stretching back to late August, according to IIR, which monitors outages, insisting that major work remains to be completed on the petrol-making unit. Besides, the IIR report said it could shut down again in
rages over the authentic representation of the PDP in the suit challenging the party's forthcoming national convention, a court document has shown that the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party had approved the appointment of Chief Chris Uche, SAN, as lawyer for the PDP in the said suit.
To some PDP chieftains, the gale of defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC) were aimed at foisting one-party system on Nigerias, while other stakeholders within the opposition parties blame it on greed on the part of the defecting Governors.
So far, Governors and members of the Houses of Assembly of Delta, Akwa Ibom and Enugu have all defected to the APC, with Bayelsa, which during the week announced its exit from the main opposition party, yet to announce its next move.
For the PDP, a member of the party from Kano State, Ismail Sani, accused some national figures within the
from all religious and ethnic backgrounds have been victims of violence.
His words: "Of course any incident of any loss of life is absolutely unfortunate, of course those who know the terrain well know that terrorism has no colour ,no relation, no tribe. People of all religions and of all tribes are dying and it is very unfortunate and we even
January.
However, Vice President of Dangote Industries, Devakumar Edwin, speaking on the matter when he took the King of Ekpetiama Kingdom and Chairman of Bayelsa Traditional Rulers Council, Bubaraye Dakolo, as well as select Nigerians on a tour of the facility, stressed that nothing could be further from the truth.
Besides, Edwin stated that the refinery was adjusting
party of being responsible for the crisis, attributing it to greed and personal interest.
Sani in accusing the leadership of the PDP for decline in the fortunes of the party said, “The greed that killed PDP is the greed of money,”
“The people that killed PDP are Umar Damagum, the Acting National Chairman; Bature, the National Organising Secretary; Samuel Anyanwu, the National Secretary; and Ajibade, the National Legal Adviser,” he alleged.
He noted that PDP’s downfall was not caused by external opposition, but by internal betrayal and the actions of individuals who treated the party as their private enterprise.
He continued, “The PDP that once stood for fairness, inclusion, and justice has been weakened by a few leaders who think only of themselves,”
Sani urged genuine party members across the country to unite and reclaim the PDP from what he described as “a small clique driven by greed and corruption.”
know that Boko Haram and ISIS are killing more muslims than more Christians so people are suffering from all sorts of backgrounds that are not specifically targeted about one group or the other.”
While condemning every loss of life as “one too many,” the U.S. envoy underscored the need for Nigeria and the United States to continue to work in partnership to end
reorganisation at $20bn refinery
crude purchases based on price fluctuations and inventory levels, but maintained that no facility of that magnitude operates at 100 per cent capacity every time.
"No factory runs at 100 per cent every day without issues. What matters is whether any problem affects final production," he said, explaining that the facility is designed for turnaround maintenance every five years, unlike older facilities that require more frequent
“If the party must rise again, the first step is to confront the truth. PDP did not die from natural causes, it was killed by greed from within,” he concluded.
Chidi Onuoha, a chieftain of the PDP from Imo State, called on first-term Governors of the party to take firm control of political activities and structures in their states as preparations for the 2027 general elections intensify.
Onuoha stressed that firstterm Governors should be the ones to shape and decide the structure of the PDP ahead of the elections, noting that they represent the present and future of the party.
He cautioned them against allowing outgoing governors or political figures to impose structures or influence party decisions, warning that such interference could weaken the unity and direction of the PDP.
“Our first-term governors must take ownership of the process. They have the people’s mandate and should lead boldly in defining the direction of the
terrorism and communal clashes across the country.
Boulos further commended the Tinubu-led government’s recent security measures and increased deployment of resources to troubled areas in the Middle Belt, hailing visible improvements and reiterating that Nigeria remains a diverse but united nation, where christians and muslims have co-existed peacefully for
shutdowns.
In the same vein, Edwin explained the recent massive reorganisation in the $20 billion refinery, revealing that at least 22 incidents of sabotage had been recorded since the refinery began production, prompting major staff rejigging.
He insisted that it had nothing to do with the disagreement with the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN).
PDP ahead of 2027,” Onuoha said.
He particularly urged PDP Governors in States such as Osun, Zamfara, and Plateau to remain proactive, focused, and committed to building a strong, united, and credible base at the grassroots.
Onuoha further emphasised that first-term governors must play a major role in the forthcoming national convention to ensure that only credible and loyal members are elected into the National Working Committee (NWC).
The National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Debo Ologunagba, said the PDP was aware of moles undermining the party’s progress.
“There are some people from within our fold that continue to undermine the party and its progress. We recognise that, but we are dealing with that. I compare this to a situation where you have a madman in a China shop; you must be methodical, you must be deliberate in trying to exit that."
centuries.
“With regards to other incidence that happened in the middle belt where farmers are located and most of these farmers have location and herdersmen are going through they have this incidence, definitely it is not something that we can say are specifically targeted about
UZOKA-ANITE RALLY GLOBAL BACKING FOR NIGERIA’S REFORMS
Addressing journalists at a media briefing in Washington, D.C., to mark the conclusion of the 2025 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group, which were held amid heightened global uncertainty, slowing growth, and volatile markets, Cardoso said the meetings provided Nigeria with a platform to showcase the tangible progress of its reform agenda and reaffirm its commitment to macroeconomic stability, fiscal discipline, and inclusive growth.
Cardoso, who was the
leader of the Nigerian delegation, said the delegation held several engagements with the IMF, World Bank, International Finance Corporation (IFC), rating agencies Fitch, Moody’s, and Standard & Poor’s as well as global investors, fintech executives, development partners, and central banks.
He said: “The tone throughout has been one of confidence and constructive partnership. There is broad recognition that Nigeria’s reforms are delivering results. Inflation is moderating, the exchange rate has stabilised,
and investor confidence is returning.”
“Nigeria’s focus remains steadfast, strengthening fundamentals, advancing reforms, and unlocking opportunities for sustainable investment and inclusive growth.
“Fiscal and monetary authorities are working seamlessly to sustain stability, deepen reforms, and ensure that the benefits of policy actions translate into tangible improvements in the lives of Nigerians. “We return home encouraged by the confidence reaffirmed in
our mission, determined to sustain this trajectory of stability, discipline, and shared prosperity.
“Our story is one of resilience of a nation aligning courage with conviction to build a more competitive, innovative, and inclusive economy.”
He disclosed that headline inflation fell for the sixth consecutive month in September to 18.02 percent, from 20.12 percent in August the lowest in three years while the naira continues to strengthen, with the spread between the official
and parallel market rates narrowing to below two percent.
Cardoso added that Nigeria’s foreign reserves now stand above $43 billion, providing more than 11 months of import cover, driven by sustained inflows and renewed investor participation across asset classes.
Cardoso further highlighted that public finances are in better shape, with improved revenue mobilisation, reduced cost of governance, and rising non-oil earnings that have strengthened fiscal stability.
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
GLAD TO MEET YOU...
Obi
of Onitsha to Leaders: Don't Sacrifice Poor Nigerians in Quest for 2027
Laments rising poverty, insecurity
David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka
The Obi of Onitsha, His Majesty Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, has lamented the growing hunger, poverty, and insecurity in Nigeria.
Achebe who spoke during the 2025 Ofala Festival in Onitsha, Anambra State, observed that political attention across the country had already shifted
Shettima: Nigeria Ready To Lead Africa’s Economic Revolution Crusade
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Vice President Kashim Shettima has hinted of Nigeria's readiness to anchor a new era of intraAfrican trade and investment, leveraging its market size, economic weight, and innovation capacity to drive the continent’s next commercial revolution.
Shettima made the disclosure yesterday at the High-Level Conference on Intra-African Trade, jointly organised by the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF), Woodhall Capital, Afreximbank, and the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), at the State House, Abuja, ahead of a series of investment roadshows scheduled for London, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi.
The Vice President represented by the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Office of the
Vice President, Senator Ibrahim Hadeija, lauded Woodhall Capital for the “audacious mandate” to mobilise international funding for sovereign and sub-sovereign projects, calling it “an act of deep patriotic service that turns theoretical potential into bankable opportunities.
“For too long, the narrative of African trade has been dictated by what we extract and export to the Global North. Today, we must pivot and activate the vast untapped energy of intra-African trade,” he said.
While intra-continental trade in Europe and Asia stands at 65 per cent and 60 per cent respectively, Shettima lamented that Africa’s remains below 17 per, urging African nations to embrace the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a springboard for shared prosperity.
in Nigeria, warns leaders against abandoning priorities
toward 2027, while millions of Nigerians continue to suffer.
He cautioned Nigeria’s political class against abandoning governance in pursuit of early political alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that such actions could worsen the country’s economic and social crises.
Reading his Ofala address, the monarch said: “The attention of the political class has become literally diverted to the 2027 general elections. New alliances
are being forged as political fortunes rise and fall.
"There is a distinct impression that these efforts are largely for the self-preservation and material benefit of those in the game.”
He expressed concerns that ordinary Nigerians were paying the price of neglect as hardship deepens nationwide despite ongoing economic reforms.
“Our poverty rate has risen from 40 per cent in 2018 to 46 per cent in 2023, translating to
about 104 million Nigerians now classified as poor,” he said, quoting the latest World Bank Development Report on Nigeria.
Achebe noted that the situation was worsened by spiralling costs of food, transportation, rent, and medication, compounded by insecurity and violence that have crippled agricultural production across several parts of the country.
“The reality on the ground
is dire,” the monarch said, adding, “The unending violence in most parts of the country continues to affect the agricultural sector very seriously.”
While acknowledging that the federal government was implementing “laudable macroeconomic stabilisation measures,” the Obi urged authorities to adopt transparent and corruption-free approaches in distributing palliatives to the most vulnerable citizens.
Wike Won’t Run Against Tinubu in 2027, Aide Dismisses PDP Faction’s Claim
Wike berates Nigeria
An aide of the Federal Capital Minister (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has denounced a report circulating online that a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) caucus was pushing for his candidacy to run against President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.
This was as Wike has blasted the Nigeria Police Force over the construction of an estate under
high-tension power lines in Apo-Dutse District.
The Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, described the report of his principal’s presidential ambition as "another lie from idle minds who have nothing to contribute to the development of the country" in a statement issued yesterday.
He also reaffirmed Wike's backing for the re-election of
President Tinubu till 2031.
He berated as a shame that the "pull Wike down" elements could not reason beyond such kindergarten tactics, adding that it was clear that they needed better brains to think for them.
The statement said: "Wike does not function in hiding. He does what he says, and says what he does.
"The minister has made it clear where he stands as long
TRUMP’S ADVISER DISMISSES RELIGIOUS PERSECUTION ALLEGATIONS IN NIGERIA
this specific group, however we must work together to put an end to this.
“However, any loss of life is too many, one is too many, we should put an end to working together in partnership to put an end to this.
as the 2027 Presidential election is concerned, he is with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
According to Wike's aide, the only meeting held on August 20, 2025, was that of PDP stakeholders from the Southern part of the country on a meeting scheduled for Lagos on August 21, 2025, by some elements to rubber stamp a decision to micro-zone party positions zoned to the South.
“The Nigerian government and the President Tinubu’s administration have recently put in additional measure and put more resources in those area and we have seen more improvements in those areas , we appreciate those measures and we look forward to ending these sorts of acts wherever they come from and we know that Nigeria is a country with all sorts of groups and religious groups, ethnic and tribal and other groups are living together for centuries and Nigerian population is split 50/50 and so this has never been a serious religious issue and should not be, but we appreciate what President Tinubu has done and we shall continue to work together to make sure it’s taken care of."
strengthening cooperation with the government of the United States in combating terrorism and strengthening regional security.
Said he: "We talked about a number of things, most importantly on counter terrorism , we have been working very closely with the Nigerian government and President Tinubu’s administration on countering terrorism and fighting terrorism.
Boulous further disclosed that he discussed enhanced cooperation with President Tinubu with a view to further
“What is happening today in the Sahel region and in the Lake Chad Basin is of extreme concern to all of us not just
people in the sub region but to the entire world to Europe and to the entire world
"It is a very serious concern and we are working on combating it and to we will be cooperating with and continue to cooperate towards combating this serious problem in the region".
On Nigeria-U.S Cooperation on the Gulf of Guinea, the Senior Adviser emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between Nigeria and the United States in strengthening maritime security across the Gulf of Guinea.
According to him, maritime safety remains a vital area of cooperation, not only for Nigeria but for all countries within the Gulf of Guinea region.
He noted that both nations have already established strong frameworks for intelligence sharing, joint training, and technology-driven security operations, adding that several ongoing programs are being expanded to address emerging threats along the West African coast.
Boulos also acknowledged Nigeria’s recent acquisition
of advanced maritime equipment from the United States, expressing optimism that the partnership would deepen through enhanced operational capacity, intelligence exchange, and sustained regional coordination.
"We also talked about maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea , also a very important part of our cooperation not just Nigeria but other countries within the Gulf of Guinea so hopefully this is something we can continue to work on.
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (right) and Special Adviser to the United States President on Arab and African Affairs, Dr Massad Boulos, in Rome…yesterday
on 24th Ofala Festival
His Royal Majesty
IGWE ALFRED ACHEBE!!!!
On behalf of my family and the g
Constituency of Imo State i warmly c
I
, CFR mni (Agbogidi), Obi of Onitsha, on your historic 24th Ofala Festival.
Your Majesty, you're truly an epitome of royalty who attracted respect to not just, Onitsha Anambra but the entire Nigeria and across the world.
I commend your commitment to m
heritage, and your unwavering
being of your subjects.
I pray God grants you many more years in the throne in good health. Congratulations Sir !!!
L o n g l i v e t h e King!!!!
SIGNED: HON. IKENGA IMO UGOCHINYERE (OJEOZI IDEATO) Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources, Downstream
Lighting Up Nigeria’s Future
Pakistan and Bangladesh hold lessons for Nigeria, writes HARUNA INUWA
In the bustling streets of Lagos or the quiet villages of Kano, the flicker of a light bulb—or its absence—tells a story of Nigeria’s enduring energy crisis. For decades, millions have lived in the shadow of unreliable power, tethered to costly diesel generators or left entirely in the dark. Load shedding is a way of life, and the grid, when it works, feels like a privilege, not a right. Yet, thousands of miles away, two nations with their own struggles—Pakistan and Bangladesh—have woven inspiring tales of progress, proving that even emerging economies can transform energy access. Their approaches, distinct yet complementary, offer Nigeria a roadmap to climb out of its energy abyss, one step at a time.
Picture a bustling market in Karachi, where shopkeepers once cursed frequent outages. Now, many of those same shops hum with power from rooftop solar panels glinting under the sun. Pakistan, a nation of over 240 million, has lifted electricity access to nearly 96% of its population in just over a decade—an astonishing feat for a country grappling with economic strain and a notoriously complex.
Today, solar energy accounts for a quarter of the nation’s electricity on sunny days, driven by what experts call a “market-adaptive transition.” This transformation didn’t happen by accident. Falling prices of solar panels, largely due to affordable Chinese imports, brought renewable energy within reach of Pakistan’s growing middle class. Supportive policies like net-metering allowed households and businesses to sell excess solar power back to the grid, turning rooftops into mini power plants. The private sector played a starring role, with independent power producers expanding supply while fiscal crises forced the government to rethink bloated subsidies and renegotiate costly contracts.
Yet, Pakistan’s energy system is far from perfect. “Circular debt”—a vicious cycle of unpaid bills between utilities, suppliers, and the government—still triggers outages. But the market-adaptive approach has empowered ordinary citizens to take control. From rural farmers to urban entrepreneurs, Pakistanis are harnessing the sun to power their homes and businesses, proving that progress can thrive even in a messy system. For Nigeria, where bureaucracy often
AIN PAKISTAN, A SHOPKEEPER’S SOLAR PANEL POWERS HER BUSINESS THROUGH OUTAGES, A SYMBOL OF A NATION ADAPTING TO ITS CHALLENGES. IN BANGLADESH, A MOTHER’S SOLAR LAMP LIGHTS HER CHILD’S HOMEWORK, A TESTAMENT TO THE POWER OF STARTING SMALL
stifles innovation, Pakistan’s story is a reminder that clear, flexible policies and market-driven solutions can spark rapid change.
In the lush, riverine villages of Bangladesh, a different kind of energy revolution unfolded. Two decades ago, when the national grid was a distant dream for millions, Bangladesh launched the world’s largest solar home system (SHS) program.
This “off-grid first” approach brought light to remote corners of the country, one tiny solar kit at a time. For as little as $100, families could buy a system—enough to power a few lights and charge a phone—financed through micro-loans from NGOs like Grameen Shakti. The brilliance of Bangladesh’s model lay in its simplicity and trust. Each solar kit came with warranties, training, and after-sales service, ensuring reliability and building confidence among users. The impact was staggering over four million solar home systems illuminated rural homes, schools, and shops, transforming lives long before the grid arrived. A villager in Chittagong could study by lamplight, a shopkeeper in Sylhet could stay open after dusk, and a mother could charge her phone to stay connected—all without a single power line.
Today, Bangladesh is shifting toward rooftop and grid-connected solar, building on its off-grid foundation. But the SHS program’s legacy endures, proving that energy access doesn’t always require a sprawling grid. For Nigeria, where over 80 million people lack electricity, Bangladesh’s story shows that small, affordable systems can bridge the gap, empowering communities while the grid catches up.
A Ladder to Light: The Path Forward Pakistan’s market-adaptive transition and Bangladesh’s off-grid first approach share a crucial insight: energy access is not a single leap but a ladder. Each rung—starting with small solar kits, advancing to mini-grids for villages, and culminating in a stable, renewable-powered grid—builds toward a brighter future. The beauty of this approach is its pragmatism: it meets people where they are, rather than waiting for a perfect, centralized system.
Inuwa is PhD student at the University of Oxford. He can be reached via inuwaharuna10@gmail.com
COP30 AND NIGER’S TURN TO SHINE
ABDULSALAM MAHMUD contends that Niger State is gradually moving to a future powered by clean energy and climate consciousness
cross the world today, governments are recalibrating their economies to fit a green and sustainable future. From Brazil’s vast reforestation drive in the Amazon to Morocco’s solar revolution in Ouarzazate, nations are realizing that the path to prosperity now runs through the low-carbon economy.
The green transition has become more than an environmental necessity; it is the new global economy in the making — one that rewards innovation, resilience and foresight. For Africa, this transition is both an urgent challenge and a rare opportunity.
As the continent most vulnerable to climate change, Africa stands to lose the most from inaction. Yet, it also possesses immense natural capital — sunlight, land, biodiversity and youthful human potential — that can power a sustainable transformation. Countries that act early and boldly will not only build resilience but also attract the finance, partnerships and technologies shaping the next century.
It is in this global context that
Niger State, under the visionary leadership of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, has chosen to define its future differently. Over the last two years, the state has pursued one of the most ambitious subnational green economy transformations in Nigeria’s history.
By linking local realities with global climate ambitions, Niger is steadily positioning itself as the country’s hub for climate-smart agriculture, clean energy and green industrial development. Governor Bago’s administration began by recognizing an undeniable truth — that climate change is not just an environmental issue but an economic one.
Desertification, flooding and deforestation have long undermined livelihoods across the state.
To confront these threats, Niger launched its “Green Economy Blueprint”, an integrated strategy designed to build resilience while creating green jobs and sustainable prosperity. From that moment, the state’s engagement with the world deepened.
At COP28 in Dubai, Niger pre-
sented its blueprint before international partners, and by COP29 in Baku, it had become a recognizable name in subnational climate leadership. These appearances were not symbolic. They yielded partnerships that have since defined the core of Niger’s transition agenda.
One of the most transformative was the Memorandum of Understanding with Blue Carbon, a UAE-based company committed to developing sustainable climate solutions. The agreement to plant one billion economic trees across one million hectares in Niger State stands as one of the largest private–public reforestation programmes on the African continent. Beyond ecological restoration, the initiative promises rural employment, carbon credit generation and long-term economic dividends from timber, fruit and non-timber forest products. Equally significant was the partnership with FutureCamp Germany, a globally renowned firm in carbon markets. This collaboration aims to unlock over ₦1 trillion in climate investments and build the technical
framework for Niger’s carbon market activation.
For a subnational entity, this is pioneering work — one that could see Niger emerge as the first Nigerian state to fully participate in voluntary carbon trading, attracting new revenue streams while promoting transparency in climate finance. The MoU with the NNPC Limited extends Niger’s climate action to the energy frontier. It covers a suite of renewable and low-carbon projects, including a Greenfield hydroelectric power plant, mega solar parks for institutions and home solar systems targeting 250,000 households. The agreement also envisions an ethanol plant capable of producing 500 million litres annually, powered by crops cultivated across 100,000 hectares — a project that will create value chains, empower farmers and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
Mahmud, Deputy Editor of PRNigeria, and a rapporteur at the maiden Niger State Green Economy Summit, writes via: babasalam1989@gmail.com.
Still On ASUU Strike
In Praise of President Buhari
WThe recurring strikes by public higher institutions, particularly the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), have become a worrisome trend that must be tackled headlong. Once again, the gates of our public universities are shut, lecture halls are deserted, and students are stranded at home.
hen President Muhammadu Buhari took over the reins of power on May 29, 2015, Nigeria was sadly a broken state in many respects. As a result of many other factors including bad governance and untold level of corruption, government could not live up to its financial obligations to citizens and service providers at both the federal and state levels.
academic activities across campuses nationwide.
Indeed one of the first official assignments that President Buhari carried out was the approval of billions of Naira in bailout funds to enable state governors pay something as basic as workers’ salaries. Granting those bailout funds was a huge boost to national security because the pressure of arrears of unpaid monthly salaries building dangerously all over the country was a ticking bomb.
Victims of an unending cycle of industrial disputes between the federal government and ASUU.
Ask the naysayers and they would readily remind you of how long it took President Buhari to appoint his ministers and how that contributed to collapse of the economy as if, without ministers, governance was frozen. But buying that narrative would amount to what a famous Nigerian writer, Chimamanda Adichie, termed “the danger of a single story”. Yet the whole story was that many of our citizens did not know how decrepit a state President Buhari inherited in 2015.
At the heart of this perennial crisis is the non implementation or, at best, the partial implementation of the 2009 Agreement reached between the federal government and ASUU.
It was therefore necessary for him to take stock against the background of the fact that the departing government did not, reportedly, cooperate full well with the incoming government in terms of leaving workable handover notes. Although President Goodluck Jonathan was gracious in defeat, many of his appointees were still sulking over what they saw as their personal losses and therefore pulled all the stops to make things difficult for the Buhari government.
For over a decade and a half, this agreement has been a source of contention, as successive administrations have either neglected or failed to fully honor the commitments made to the union. What started as a promise to improve university education, welfare, and infrastructure has since turned into a recurring nightmare for students, lecturers, and parents alike.
The TSA policy, interestingly, was mooted by the PDP government but its penchant for imprudence and lack of accountability denied it the courage of implementing the policy. What the President literally did was to gather all the nation’s money into one box and locked it up with a big padlock and watched for any thief to come close.
This latest strike, which has once again altered the academic calendar, will no doubt negatively affect students who have no choice but to wait on both government and ASUU to reach a resolution. The situation has been further worsened by the ongoing war of words and bickering between the Minister of Education and ASUU leadership, a development that does nothing to foster trust or progress in negotiations.
Let Jos Breathe Again
by the EFCC, President Buhari by his action has successfully brought back to the public consciousness the need to treat public funds with the highest level of transparency and accountability.
IAfter keeping treasury looters on their toes and at bay through the EFCC, particularly, President Buhari moved to curb unnecessary spending habits of the nation on what economists call articles of ostentation. Part of the disclosures of the President’s stock taking was how the country frittered away billions in foreign currency by importing goods, which can be produced at home. One of such items was rice, a major staple among Nigerians. By banning rice importation into the country, the President on one hand had saved the nation billions in foreign currency annually.
This recurring crisis raises fundamental questions about governance and accountability. Why do successive governments continue to renege on agreements they willingly signed?
Even with the obvious and unpatriotic obscurantist behaviour of the PDP appointees and their supporters still in government hell-bent on making things difficult for Buhari, the President moved on with his methodical repair of a broken country. The first thing he did was to identify all possible sources of income to the nation and directed that all inflows be paid into one single account in line with the policy of Single Treasury Account (TSA).
Before his election, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, during his presidential campaigns, repeatedly assured Nigerians that if elected, he would put an end to the incessant ASUU strikes. Many Nigerians believed that with his experience and promises, lasting peace would finally return to the nation’s university system. Unfortunately, that assurance is now being tested as the two-week warning strike declared by ASUU has crippled
Who can blame the President for almost developing paranoia over the safeguard of the national treasury with revelations and reports of mind-boggling looting that took place in the 16 years of the PDP? With such disclosures of how billions meant for fighting insurgency in the Northeast ended up in the pockets of a few individuals while our gallant soldiers fought with bare hands and on empty stomach, President Buhari was duty bound to bring sanity and accountability back in national spending.
Thus, under President Buhari, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which had remained comatose for years, was woken up to resume its duties. Apart from the trillions of Naira of looted funds and property recovered from corrupt politicians
Stop Ritual Attacks and Killings
write as a concerned citizen to draw the attention of Governor of Plateau State to the terrible condition of roads within Jos city, especially the entrance from Bauchi through Naraguta.
TAnyone driving into Jos from that axis will agree the experience is heartbreaking. The gallops, eroded patches, and broken surfaces make the entrance to our beautiful city look abandoned. This is not the image a capital city should project, especially one that prides itself as the Home of Peace and Tourism.
And, on the other hand, the President has boosted domestic production of rice and in the process had nudged the country into self sufficiency in food production. He also created millions of jobs for young people in the rice value chain.
Sadly, the poor road network is killing businesses within the city. Transporters spend more on vehicle maintenance, traders complain about logistics, and investors visiting from other states often leave disappointed. Jos deserves better than this.
What is most admirable about President Buhari and his government is its frugal management of scarce national resources to attain optimum goals. Recall that since President Buhari stepped in the saddle, oil revenue dropped abysmally as if to sabotage him knowing all the big promises he made to citizens during his campaigns. But with the little resources that trickle in, the President is achieving what governments that received oil windfalls could not dream of.
Tochukwu Jimo Obi,Abuja
Today, the trains are up and running daily from Abuja to Kaduna. And from Lagos to Ibadan a brand new rail track was started and completed; citizens are already commuting daily to and fro these two major cities in the country seamlessly as they reap from the dividends of democracy. And with the way this government is going, before 2023 when the President would leave, the entire country would be linked by rail with all of its economic advantages.
Ainofenokhai Ojeifo, Abuja
THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER
EDITOR OBINNA CHIMA
DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU
MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO
THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU
EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE
CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN
MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO
THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE
he Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AfAW) urges the Nigerian public to stop ritual attacks and killings because the notion of ritual money and wealth is completely baseless. AfAW is making this call following the reported arrest of suspected ritualists in Oyo State in southern Nigeria. The local media reported that members of the Western Nigeria Security Network, Amotekun, arrested suspected ritualists with the body parts of a 73-year-old man.
A quick look at Bauchi State tells a different story. The governor there has reconstructed the city roads and even fixed all routes leading into the capital, including federal roads. The result is a cleaner city, a thriving economy, and renewed confidence among the people.
Jos should not be left behind. The capital represents the pride of our state. Fixing the city roads, starting from Naraguta and other key routes, will restore beauty, attract investment, and revive business activities.
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU
CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN
MANAGING EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI
THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE
THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU
THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI
SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI
DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com What a waste!
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
The suspects, who were apprehended in the Boluwaji area in Ibadan, said that a Muslim cleric asked them to procure some human body parts for rituals. Ritual attacks are widespread in Nigeria. Irrational conceptions of how to make money or become wealthy and successful undergird these atrocities. Many Nigerians strongly believe in blood money, known in some local languages as Ogun Owo (Yoruba) or Ogwu ego (Igbo). They think that they could become rich, or successful through ritual sacrifice. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Ritual wealth has no basis in reason, science, or reality. Home movies known as Africa magic or Nollywood films have not helped matters. These movies continue to reinforce these mistaken notions and other superstitions. Families, churches, mosques, and other public institutions do not encourage the interrogation of these traditional occult beliefs. There are no robust efforts to criticize or dispel these irrational and paranormal claims in schools, colleges, and universities. So millions of Nigerians grow up blindly believing that they could make money through ritual sacrifice of human body parts. The belief has led many Nigerians to commit crimes and perpetrate atrocities. Many Nigerians have been jailed or are undergoing court trials due to ritualrelated attacks and murder.
It is my fervent prayer that you are eternally resting in peace. Before your demise on 3rd January, 2005, I was a loyal reader of your page on the Weekly Trust stable, the Wada Nas Column. After your passing, late AlBashir, that prolific writer took over your page briefly. He later died also. May his soul rest in peace.
]I write to tell you that your prediction has come to pass. As far as I can remember, it was you who redefined the PDP acronym from the Peoples Democratic Party to Predictably Dying Party. # Mukhtar Jarmajo, Bauchi
Not too long ago, the police arrested some young Nigerians for stealing female pants, which they intended to use for ritual sacrifice. AfAW is asking all Nigerians to desist from ritual-related abuses because ritual money beliefs are baseless superstitions. Nigerian media, schools, and colleges should help educate and reorient the public. They should assist in reasoning Nigerians out of this killer-superstitious absurdity and nonsense. Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AfAW)
Celebrating the Girl-child...
Congratulations
DR. UMAR ETSU MOHAMMED, ESQ
Dr. Alex Izinyon, SAN
Prince Adetokunbo Kayode, SAN
Damien D. Dodo, SAN
Mohammed Bello Adoke, SAN
Sunday I. Ameh, SAN
Chief Karina Tunyan, SAN
Ikec huc hwu Ezec hukwu, SAN
We hear tily felicitate with Alhaji Umar Etsu Mohammed, Esq. on the well-deser ved confer ment of the Honor ar y Doctor of Letters (D.Litt, Honoris Causa) by the F ederal University Lokoja, today, Saturday, 18th October, 2025.
This recognition stands as a testament to your exceptional contributions to humanity, public ser vice, and the legal profession. Your unwavering integrity, visionary leadership, and devotion to national development continue to inspire excellence across generations.
As you receive this distinguished honour, may your light of wisdom and humility shine even brighter in ser vice to God and country.
Congratulations, distinguished awardee.
Sam uel T. Ologunorisa, SAN Mahmoud Magaji, SAN Sir, Patric k Okolo, SAN
Sam uel O. Zibiri, SAN
Abdul A. Ibrahim, SAN E.C Ikeji, SAN Akin Adewale, SAN
Courtesy:
Celebrating a Visionary Leader
FaithPlant
Global Services Limited, joyfully felicitates His Excellency, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, on the glorious occasion of his 66th birthday—a celebration of a visionary leader whose people-first governance continues to reshape Cross River State with purpose and grace.
Under your inspired leadership, Your Excellency, the state’s road infrastructure has witnessed a renaissance—opening corridors of connectivity from the Southern senatorial district through the Central heartlands to the mountainous North. Your drive for modern, durable, and accessible road networks has reignited economic vibrancy and unity across communities.
As partners in progress, we at FaithPlant salute your unmatched commitment to excellence, your passion for development, and your steadfast pursuit of a sweeter, stronger Cross River State. May this new chapter of your life be crowned with divine strength, wisdom, and greater milestones of service to humanity.
Evangelist Michael Asuquo MD/CEO
Prince Bassey Edet Otu Governor, Cross River State
LAGOS SPORTS COMMISSION INAUGURAL FIDA TRAINING FOR YOUTH...
UN: Only 23% Nigerian Women-owned Businesses Have Access to Credit
Inclusivity: women group seeks stronger partnership with government, development agencies
Kuni Tyessi and Alex Enumah in Abuja
The United Nations has disclosed that based on research only 23 per cent of women-owned businesses in Nigeria have access to formal credit.
Also, women in the country have called for a stronger partnership with governments at all levels and development agencies, to enhance their economic and socio-political development.
With only 23 per cent of women-owned businesses in Nigeria having access to formal
credit, the United Nations said this was a critical factor limiting women from pushing their businesses forward.
It further stated that women entrepreneurs as well as small and medium enterprises play vital roles in sustaining the Nigerian economy by contributing significantly to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) which includes employment, innovation and national development.
Speaking yesterday in Abuja at the fifth Conference of the Women Enterprise Alliance, UN Women country representative to
Otti: Those Planning to Rig Abia 2027 Election Should Sign Their Will
Group accuses deputy speaker of inciting presidency against governor
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has warned that rigging the 2027 governorship election in the state will spell selfdestruction for anyone who engages in such malpractice.
The warning comes as the Abians for Sustenance of Good Governance, a group of Abians advocating for deepening of good governance in their state, urged the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, to stop inciting President Bola Tinubu against Otti.
The group made the call at a press conference in Umuahia, saying that a series of statements coming from Kalu in recent time were disconcerting.
The Abia Governor sent out the warning Thursday, night at the October edition of his monthly media chat at Government House, Umuahia, while reacting to the frequent attacks by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Kalu. Otti, who was publicly reacting to Kalu's attacks and boasts, stated that he was aware that the Deputy Speaker and some people around him had vowed that "they must take over this state; they must write results."
"But the only advice I have for them is that if they truly want to write results, they should write something else before that time. You know what it is?: They will,” Otti bluntly said.
Nigeria, Beatrice Eyong, said women-led enterprises were driving growth, creating jobs, and reducing poverty across communities in spite of persistent challenges.
She reiterated that while women were visible in enterprise, they remained largely excluded from the impacts and growth that expanded productivity, competitiveness, and wealth.
According to her, "Only 23 per cent of women-owned businesses in Nigeria have access to formal credit compared to 34 per cent of women-owned businesses.
“Nigeria’s economy rests firmly on the shoulders of small and medium enterprises.
According to the SMEDAN and NBS 2023 survey, MSMEs make up 96.7 per cent of all businesses, contribute 49 per
cent of national GDP and employ more than 84 per cent of the labour force.
“Within the sector, women own about 43 per cent of micro and small enterprises, yet most of these are in the informal economy, undercapitalised, under protected and often overlooked in formal policy and financial systems,” she said.
The UN scribe said that
many women entrepreneurs operated in environments constrained by poor infrastructure, limited internet access, and regulatory bottlenecks, which called for actionable interventions. She said that there was a need to promote inclusion for women and strengthen the link between policy formulation, implementation, and accountability.
Editors Shift Annual Conference to Nov. 12, Tinubu Confirms Attendance
The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), the elite professional body of Managing Directors, Directors of News and Editors of print, online, news agency and broadcast organisations, has announced a shift of its All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC) 2025 to November 12-13, 2025.
The Guild said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had given his commitment to declare the conference open on November 12, 2025 as Special Guest of Honour in Abuja.
In a statement by Eze Anaba and Onuoha Ukeh, President and General Secretary respectively, yesterday, the NGE said the change of date was due to circumstances beyond its control.
The media body apologised to its members, all invited guests and the general public for the inconvenience the change of date may cause them.
The Guild said that the conference venue remains Abuja, while giving assurance that the event will be a veritable
platform to dissect issues that would sustain national cohesion and development in the country.
According to the statement, "The Standing Committee of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) regrets to inform members, invited guests and the general public that due to circumstances beyond its control, the ANEC 2025 has been shifted to November 12-13, 2025. The venue remains the same (Abuja).
"We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience this change
Enugu Ranks 5th on IGR,
Mbah
of date may cause you. We promise that despite the change of date, the ANEC 2025 would be a credible platform to discuss and proffer solutions to issues pertaining to national development and cohesion.
"President and Commanderin-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, will declare the conference open, while dignitaries from government, academia, media, organised private sector and diplomatic corps are expected to attend."
to Set Up Multi- stakeholders’ Review Committee on Taxation
Gideon Arinze in
Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, has announced that the state ranks fifth on Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), saying his administration plans to set up a committee to look into allegations of tax increase in the state.
He said that his administration had only widened the tax net without increasing the tax rate. Mbah, who also explained that the surge in the state’s IGR was due to the introduction of e-payment and technology by his administration to plug
revenue leakages, blamed what he described as false narratives on taxation in Enugu State on beneficiaries of the old order of corruption in revenue collection in the state.
The governor stated this while fielding question during a media chat with journalists
at Government House, Enugu, during the week. It would be recalled that Enugu State raked in N180.05 billion, up from N37 billion in 2023, to rank 5th on 2024 IGR table of the 36 states and FCT released by the National Bureau of Statistics about a fortnight ago.
Enugu
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia
L–R: Deputy Director of Sports, Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC), Ifeoluwa Ogunlaja; President, Federation of International Drone Soccer Association (FIDA Nigeria), Rotimi Makanjuola, and Deputy Director of Sports, LSSC, Salami Adebayo, during the inaugural FIDA training for youth development and STEM education held in Lagos... recently
COURTESY VISIT...
Sanwo-Olu Launches €410m EU-funded ‘Omi-Eko’ Project to Boost Water Transport
Project to inject 70 hybrid electric ferries, develop 140km ferry routes, 25 modern terminals
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, yesterday, formally launched the €410 million waterways infrastructure project aimed at developing rapid transportation options that will address Lagosians’ mobility needs.
The project, divided into two components, will be implemented by the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), with the second component expected to be completed by 2030.
Lagos secured the funding for the project via the Global Gateway Initiative, the French Development Agency (AFD), the European Union (EU) and the European Investment Bank (EIB), which earmarked a subsidised
loan of EUR 360 for the project.
The first component of the project covers channelisation, marking and dredging of 140km of ferry routes from which Lagos will be developing 15 priority ferry routes, including
APC Governors Reiterate Support for Tinubu's Reforms
Onuminya Innocent
Members of the Progressive Governors' Forum (PGF) have reaffirmed their commitment to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's vision for a greater Nigeria, pledging unflinching support for his Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to a communique issued at the end of their meeting in Birnin Kebbi on October 17, 2025, the governors vowed to back critical priority
projects aimed at economic transformation, social inclusion, and sustainable development.
The PGF led by the Chairman, Hope Uzodinma of Imo State Governor, called on Nigerians to sustain their faith in the Renewed Hope Agenda and support their governors in building a new era of national progress anchored on stability, justice, and shared prosperity.
The forum also reiterated its support for the leadership of the All Progressives Congress
(APC) and pledged to sustain its contributions to the party's institutional consolidation, internal democracy, and policy coherence.
The meeting provided a platform for reflection on Nigeria's socio-economic trajectory and a reassessment of states' roles in the country's transformation.
The PGF reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening policy coordination, building interstate collaboration, and
driving innovation across states.
The forum formally welcomed Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State into the progressive fold, applauding his courageous move to join the APC.
According to Uzodinma, with the coming of Governor Mba the number of APC governors has risen to 24, a development the PGF described as "historic and transformative, further validating the national appeal and policy strength of the Renewed Hope Agenda."
Gombe, Rano Air Seal Deal on Scheduled Commercial Flights Between Abuja, Gombe
Awofadeji in Gombe
The Gombe State Government has finalised arrangements with Rano Air Limited for the commencement of scheduled commercial flight operations between Abuja and Gombe. This followed a meeting between Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya and top management officials of the airline at the Governor’s
Lodge in Abuja, where both parties concluded plans to begin the service. To formalise the partnership, an official Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed yesterday, with the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, signing on behalf of the Gombe State Government, while the General Manager (Operations)
of Rano Air, Mr. Abah Godwin signed for the airline. The Sole Administrator of Brig. Zakari Maimalari International Airport Gombe, Engr. Suleiman Daniel Musa, and Mr. Auwal Sulaiman Ubale witnessed on behalf of their respective entities. Under the agreement, Rano Air will deploy an Embraer 145 aircraft with a 50-passenger capacity to operate four weekly flights on the Abuja - Gombe
- Abuja route, specifically on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
The Rano Air delegation at the meeting with the governor included the General Manager (Operations), Abah O. Godwin; Accountable Manager, Alh. Lawal Sabo Bakinzuwo; Head, Ground Operations, Bashir Abdullahi Wudilawa; and Head, Business Development, Auwal Sulaiman Ubale.
13-year-old Abraham Emerges Heirs Insurance Essay Championship Winner
constructing high-quality infrastructure and facilities.
The entire Inland Waterways Transport infrastructure comprises 25 ferry terminals and jetties with electric charging facilities to power e-vessels. There will be onshore depots for routine vessel maintenance, while land connections, including road surfacing, will be developed for other transport services connecting to ferry terminals.
A statement quoted SanwoOlu, to have described the OmiEko launch as “historic”, noting that the event was not just an unveiling ceremony but a “bold statement” reaffirming Lagos’ frontline leadership in delivering
a sustainable integrated water transportation ecosystem.
The Governor said exploring the full range of waterways transportation was a critical priority in his administration’s THEMES+ Agenda to transform mobility in the metropolis. He said: “Every Lagosian knows the frustration of traffic. But a few will remember that Lagos began as a network of islands, knitted together by water. Long before bridges connected city, boats carried dreams, goods, and people across the lagoons. This water body nourishes us, shapes the State’s identity and now, it will carry us into the future.
Optiva Capital Partners Reaffirms Leadership in Africa’s Investment Immigration Industry
Sunday Ehigiator
The Chairman of Optiva Capital Partners, Franklin Nechi, has reaffirmed the company’s unmatched leadership in the fast-growing global migration and investment immigration industry, describing Optiva as “the bridge that connects African potential to global possibilities.”
Speaking at an interactive media session in Lagos, Nechi noted that the demand for second citizenship and residency-byinvestment programs has become a defining trend in global wealth management — transforming from a privilege of the few into a strategic necessity for High Net Worth Individuals (HNIs) and professionals, particularly across Nigeria and Africa.
investors and entrepreneurs required more than financial assets — they needed access: access to opportunity, safety, and choice.
“From a pioneering idea, Optiva has evolved into Africa’s leading investment immigration and wealth management firm, trusted by thousands of clients across the continent,” Nechi stated.
“Our vision has always been to empower Africans to live globally without borders.”
Thirteen-year-old Rhema-Love Abraham of Precepts Learning Field, Lagos, has emerged as the overall winner of the 4th edition of the Heirs Insurance Essay Championship, a nationwide competition promoting financial literacy and academic excellence among secondary school students and educators.
Abraham’s victory earned her a N5 million scholarship and a N1 million grant for her school.
The grand finale, held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, brought together students, parents, and academic leaders for a celebration of knowledge and creativity.
Families Safe and Secure’.
This year’s edition, which attracted over 5,000 entries from junior secondary school students nationwide, was anchored on the topic ‘The Role of Insurance in Keeping
After a rigorous evaluation process by a distinguished panel of academic professionals, independently verified by Deloitte & Touche, 13-year-old Abraham of Precepts Learning Field, Lagos, emerged as the overall winner.
“Today, mobility is power. Access is wealth. The world rewards those who can cross borders, seize opportunities, and connect effortlessly with global systems of education, healthcare, business, and innovation,” he said.
Nechi emphasised that Optiva Capital Partners recognised early on that Africa’s rising class of
According to Nechi, Optiva’s leadership in the industry rests on three key pillars: “Credibility — ensuring every transaction is guided by transparency, due process, and international best practices; Partnership — built on collaborations with governments, licensed program administrators, global legal firms, and real estate developers across Europe, the Caribbean, and the Middle East, and Impact — reflected in life-changing outcomes for clients: families gaining global freedom, entrepreneurs expanding into new markets, and children accessing world-class education without barriers.
Segun
Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar (left) and Ekiti State Governorship aspirant of the African Democratic Congrss, Emmanuel Fayose, during the visit to Atiku in his house in Abuja…yesterday
NATIONAL INSURANCE ESSAY CHAMPIONSHIP...
State Forces Secure Four Fresh Convictions in Plateau
The military high command has disclosed that ongoing operations by troops of the Nigerian Armed Forces in collaboration with other security agencies under a joint task force, have led to the conviction of four criminal suspects in Plateau State.
Also, the Police Service Commission has approved the promotion of AIG Dankwara
Adamu Mohammed to the rank of Deputy Inspector General of Police, CP Abibo Deinma Reuben from the rank of Commissioner to Assistant Inspector General of Police and 11 Deputy Commissioners of Police to the rank of substantive Commissioners.
The military noted that recent operational successes—whether in counter-terrorism, antibanditry, maritime security, or joint internal security
Pharmacists Kick against Proposed University of Medicine & Health Sciences
The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) has described as a misnomer, the branding of a university after a single professional in a multidisciplinary sector, and discriminatory.
Speaking ahead of the society’s 2025 Annual National Conference(DABO 2025) scheduled to be held in Kano next month, the PSN President, Prof. Ayuba Tanko, who
frowned at the development said “by singling out medicine in the naming of a new healthsector University, other health professions are inadvertently relegated to a subordinate or surrogate status.”
This, he argued, “can be psychologically damaging, and could cause feelings of inferiority that affect students from their training days through their professional lives.’’
e buy old original Afrobeat and highlife vinyl records. We buy local music from Nigeria and Africa only. Records must be in good condition with original cover.
If you have records to sell, please call us on 09135239816, or send pictures on WhatsApp. Top prices paid.
efforts—are not merely victories on the battlefield, but clear demonstrations of the troops’ resolve to secure every inch of the nation.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, attributed these achievements to coordinated efforts, intelligence-
driven strategies, and the continued support of patriotic Nigerians.
Kangye said, “In another development, four suspects were arraigned before a Magistrate Court in Jos South LGA of Plateau State on 8 October 2025. The suspects were charged with
conspiracy and theft, to which they pleaded guilty. They were each sentenced to one year in prison.”
He further revealed that troops of Operation Fansan Yamma, during an offensive operation, arrested a suspected gunrunner and two members of a drug cartel in Lere and
Shinkafi LGAs of Kaduna and Zamfara States respectively. Troops also recovered 1,307 live rounds of ammunition, six mobile phones, vehicles, large quantities of cannabis and crystal methamphetamine (commonly known as ice), motorcycles, and the sum of N227,000.
A chieftain of the Young Progressive Party (YPP) and former House of Representatives candidate for Idemili Federal Constituency in the 2023 general election, Stanley Chikaodili Okeke, popularly known as Ugbo, has officially joined the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).
Okeke announced his defection during the APGA gubernatorial campaign rally held in Nkpor, Idemili, which had in attendance Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, members of the State Executive Council, APGA National
Working Committee and several dignitaries.
Speaking after the event, Okeke said his decision to join APGA was inspired by Soludo’s exceptional leadership qualities, which he described as “magnetic and transformative."
“Governor Soludo is a man you cannot afford not to like. As a leader, he is decisive and focused. When he believes in something, he stands by it. I believe this is how every true leader should behave — one whose actions are not determined by the crowd but by conviction,” Okeke stated.
First Lady Headlines UNA-Nigeria @80 Conference
The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu is expected to present a keynote address during a two-day International Conference to commemorate United Nations at 80 and United Nations Association of Nigeria (UNA–Nigeria) Day scheduled to hold in Lagos.
The conference with the theme: ‘’Fostering Social
Collaboration for Sustainable Future,” would be held on October 23 and 24, 2025.
UNA-Nigeria President, Professor Oluremi Olutimo who disclosed this in Lagos, while announcing activities lined up to mark the 80th Anniversary of the United Nations, also disclosed the expansion of the scope of its reach across the 36 states
as it celebrates 80th UN anniversary.
According to him, the body’s presence in virtually all the 36 states of the federation and Abuja is to help the United Nations and the Federal Government achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) project in Nigeria.
He said that the marks a breakthrough in UNA-
Nigeria's objective of taking its' services to the grassroots in the country with the youths as the major target. Presently, UNA-Nigeria presence is felt in Lagos and very few states in the country.
The United Nations was established in 1945 at the end of the Second World War, while UNA, a branch of the UN, started in 1952.
Resort Seeks to End
Bennett Oghifo
Nigeria’s $9,495,210 annual spend on coconut imports, will end soon with the launch of Adaba Farm and Resort, a sprawling 202 hectare-coconut plantation in Owode, Ogun State, owned by Kazfield Integrated Services Ltd.
Coconuts imports to Nigeria are primarily sourced from neighbouring Ghana and Ivory Coast, but this ambitious project positions Nigeria to capture a slice of the booming global market and deliver extraordinary long-term returns to investors.
“This initiative is more
than a farm; it’s a catalyst for economic sovereignty,” declared Dr. Kazeem Yekinni, CEO of Kazfield Integrated Services Ltd. “By harnessing the coconut market’s explosive growth— from $14.18 billion today to $33.71 billion by 2034— Adaba Farm will position Nigeria as Africa’s coconut hub, fostering
wealth creation and sustainable development for generations.” Nigeria, currently ranked 19th among global coconut suppliers, lags far behind top producers, Indonesia, the Philippines, India, and Brazil, which dominate with vast plantations and efficient supply chains.
L-R: National Coordinator, National Social Safety-Nets Coordinating Office (NASSCO), Funmi Olotu; MD/CEO, Heirs Life Assurance and the Group’s Sector Head, Niyi Onifade;1st Runner Up, Bernice Michael; Winner, 2025 Heirs Insurance Essay Championship, Rhema-Love Abraham; 2nd Runner Up, Afopefoluwa Tofio-Jacobs; Winner, Teachers’ Insurance Awareness Prize, Okpe James Chidi; MD/CEO, Heirs General Insurance, Wole Fayemi, and Head, Technical, Heirs Insurance Brokers, James Akpan, at the grand finale of Heirs Insurance Essay Championship held in Abuja…recently
Linus Aleke in Abuja
Speak Volumes, not ‘Volume’
YOU are welcome to this week’s edition of our language clinic:
“Customs deputy comptroller slumps, dies at Reps (Reps’) investigative hearing”
“…on his emergence as the vice chairman of the Southern Nigeria Governors (Governors’) Forum.”
“…speak volume (volumes) of your capabilities.” This error-ridden advertorial was signed by five lawmakers!
“…despite the fact that our party performed creditably well.” Delete ‘well’—it is an overkill. You either use ‘creditably’ or ‘well’ as both cannot co-function.
“…the financial institutions, especially those listed on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (another comma) are positioning to….”
“This emerged as the SEC yesterday, released its framework to….” Either a comma before ‘yesterday’ or none at all to avoid a disruption of the subject and the verb—there must be a joint relationship.
“…as listed commercial banks give investors opportunity (an opportunity or opportunities) to own a….”
“…is renowned for her electric music genre, comprising of soul….” Electrocute ‘of’!
Daily Independent online of June 28 signed off the month of passion: “There are times necessity breed (breeds) invention….”
“…uncontrolled contract awards and flagrant disobedience to (of) financial regulations….”
Lastly from the above edition: “Proffer solution to Boko Haram
menance first” Spell-check: menace.
Vanguard of June 26 indulged in malapropism: “Gbagi itches (inches) closer to becoming first African in Rotary’s Arch Klumph Society”
“We wish to announce the sudden death of our friend…which sad event took place on…in a ghastly motor accident.” (THE GUARDIAN, June 23) When an accident results in death, it is fatal (not ghastly).
A recurrent blunder: “4 arrested over 62-yr-old man’s death” (Vanguard, June 23) No tiresomeness from error regularity: ‘arrest’ takes ‘for’ (not ‘over’).
“Why we’re promoting artistes of yesteryears” Nigeria’s weekly magazine: yesteryear. The same thing applies to ‘heyday’.
“Our grouse against NHIS, by community pharmacists” (THE GUARDIAN, July 10) My grouse about (not against) media language abuse….
“Before it used to be between 40 to 60.” (THE GUARDIAN, July 17) Even The Flagship? Either from 40 to 60 or between 40 and 60. No muddle, gentlemen.
“Explosions in the African continent” Conscience, Nurtured by Truth: Explosions on the African continent.
“In the presidential polls (a comma) President…failed to score the mandatory 50 per cent of the vote to be declared outrightly elected” ‘Outrightly’ is perverse American English. The standard version is ‘outright’ which functions both as an adverb and an adjective. We cannot continue agonizing over
semantics.
“On December 29, the governor added another feather to his cap when….” (Daily Trust, July 15) Stock expression: added (no need for another) a feather in (not to) one’s (his) cap.
“Solutions that create more social trauma and dislocations than is (are) currently the case will not be preferred over (to) solutions that minimize the same.” I prefer compere to (not over) master of ceremonies.
“The three parties that demanded for the restructuring of the electoral body are….” (Daily Independent, July 16) As a verb, ‘demand’ does not take ‘for’ except in a noun form.
“Given the robust profiles of majority (a majority) of the INEC commissioners, there is every hope that the commission may get its acts together in the next elections.”
A review: a majority of…and the fixed expression: get its act (not acts) together.
The following blunders are from Leadership of July16: “Hong Kong, as a colony, is made up of the harbour that is reputed to be one of the busiest in the world comprising of some outlying settlements, ceded to Britain by China in 1842.”
This can’t be a challenge: ‘comprising’ does not require ‘of’.
“I feel the permanent solution is not in importing fuel from abroad….” (Vanguard, July 16) The importation couldn’t have been from within these shores!
“Their roles and participation in the furtherance of dictatorship has
Okpebholo’s Funeral of State Dignity
There are gestures that mark a healthy democracy - robust debate, civil service that answers to law not personality, and symbols of office that point to the people they are meant to serve. Then there are gestures like the one Governor Monday Okpebholo performed in Benin this week: instructing his newly sworn commissioners to wear a Tinubu-branded “Asiwaju” cap to Executive Council meetings and warning that anyone who fails to do so will be turned away. It is an image that captures more than a momentary lapse in taste; it speaks to a worrying habit in our politics where public office becomes the stage for private fealty.
There is nothing novel about leaders seeking visible signs of allegiance - politicians everywhere brand themselves and their allies. But the peculiar brazenness here is that the mark of allegiance is to the occupant of the federal Executive, not to the constitution, the electorate, or even the office of the governor. The governor’s speech - thanking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his help in the state’s election and then ordering public servants to don his insignia - turns the apparatus of state into a branch office of partisan theatre. In doing so, it collapses the boundary between service and servility.
This is not mere sartorial absurdity. Symbols change behaviour. When commissioners are obliged to parade a president’s logo into a state council meeting, the meeting’s purpose subtly shifts from problem-solving for Edo people to performance signalling at the national level. The threat to send someone back for lacking a cap tells junior officials what matters most: not the content of policy, not results for schools, hospitals or roads, but visible loyalty to a party brand and its leader. It also invites patronage and partisan policing of the civil service - the very things that undermine delivery and make public appointments into spoils.
There are a string of recent precedents that
put Okpebholo’s cap in context. Governors have more and more been seen performing obeisance to the centre - not only in photographic handshakes at Aso Rock but in public gestures that signal who their true boss is. The wearing of branded caps or other insignia by state figures when visiting the presidency has circulated widely in recent months; in some cases governors have been spotted completing official visits with presidential-branded headgear, a small item that speaks loudly about who gets the public eye. The optics are the policy: if loyalty to a person becomes the primary currency, good governance becomes a secondary market. We should also remember the outraged conversations this kind of worship of office provokes. Nigerians have complained in the past about governors turning up en masse to wave off presidential flights, an act ridiculed as wasteful spectacle rather than governance. There is a pattern - the more lavish the obeisance, the less likely we are to see gut-wrenching scarcity treated with sobriety. In other words, when the choreography of loyalty substitutes for public purpose, priorities get perverted.
(have) seriously.…” (Source: as above) “Issues bothering on meeting employers’ obligations to employees in form of salary….” There is a sharp distinction between ‘bothering’ and ‘bordering’, which applies here.
“While contesting the alleged sale of the bakery and its ultra-modern equipments….” ‘Equipment’ is uncountable.
“The frequency with which administrations are changed at the grassroot level makes it difficult for any sustainable development to be accomplished.” Immutable: grassroots makes.
“Given the robust profiles of majority of the INEC commissioners, there is every hope that the commission may get its acts together in the April elections.” A review: a majority of… and the fixed expression: get its act (not acts) together.
“The impression seems to have gained ground that the voter registration was just another white elephant project, a wasteful jamboree.” Get it right: just white elephant. All the trash about ‘project, a wasteful jamboree’ is simply pleonastic.
“Just imagine if all the money which was sunken into the Ajaokuta steel project.…” Tense mix-up: yank away ‘sunken’ for ‘sunk.’
“I escaped death by a hair’s breath” No lexical mayhem: a hair’s breadth. “I detest the idea of somebody being nun talk less of my own daughter.” ‘Talk less’ is Nigerian English employed in place of ‘not to talk of’ or ‘let alone’ which are standard entries.
There are two practical dangers here. The first is policy capture: when state executives are expected to demonstrate fealty, their decisions become filtered by the need not to displease powerful patrons rather than by evidence of actual performance or meeting of local needs. The second is institutional erosion: a civil service that is incentivised to show symbols of personal loyalty will naturally cede independence, sparking self-censorship and hampering the checks that federalism and bureaucracy are supposed to provide. For citizens of Edo State, that translates directly into poorer service delivery - a commissioner worried more about how he or she appears in a photograph than whether a clinic has drugs will not fix the clinic. That is not conjecture; it is arithmetic of incentives.
Some will argue this is politics as usual: governors thank their patrons, political parties brand their campaigns, and everyone plays the game. But the difference is one of degree and of setting. Elections and campaigning are one thing; the functioning of state government is another. Campaign regalia in campaign season is expected. Ordering political paraphernalia into the day-to-day rituals of governance crosses a line. It makes the threshold for holding public office less about competence and public interest, and more about theatrical displays of loyalty. That sets a terrible precedent as we approach the 2027 elections: what begins as a cap today can become vetting by photo-op tomorrow.
There is also an irony in the governor’s rhetoric. He told his commissioners their appointments “did not come as a reward or patronage, but as a call to serve the people of Edo State.” The cap order, and the warning attached to it, tells a different story. It reads less like a sermon on sacrifice and discipline and more like an initiation rite for a clientelist order. The subliminal message to any commissioner is that career prospects and access to power will depend as much on flags worn and slogans mouthed as on the quality of work
produced. That is not leadership; it is a licensing of servitude.
What should citizens expect and do? First, demand clarity: if a governor claims his administration is about “practical governance,” then the evidence must be practical: budgets executed, schools improved, health clinics stocked. Nigerian citizens and the media should press for disclosure of performance metrics rather than fashion statements. Second, institutions must be defended: civil servants, boards and agencies should not be reduced to party messengers. Third, political parties should be reminded that winning votes does not give carte blanche to convert public offices into propaganda wings. If the line between party and state is blurred beyond recognition, the very idea of federalism - subnational governments acting as bulwarks against overcentralisation - is hollowed out.
We have seen, too often, the theatre of allegiance: governors posing, or loitering, at airports, ministers photographed wearing branded caps, and public servants being coaxed into partisan displays. It is time to call such carnival for what it is: a distraction from the harder work of governance. If the Asiwaju cap becomes a uniform for the comfortable and conniving, then the cost will be paid by ordinary citizens who need policies and services, not photo opportunities.
So let those commissioners choose: a cap for the camera, or trousers for the task. The people of Edo, and indeed of Nigeria, deserve public servants who are measured by the lives they touch, not the logos they sport. If Okpebholo wants loyalty - let it be loyalty to the public purse, to the rule of law, and to the health of institutions. Anything less is just political tomfoolery in a suit and cap.
Samuel Mensah: Trends Often Start in Nigeria, Spread to Africa and Influence the World
As Africa’s creative economy continues to gain global attention, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the An- anse Centre for Design, Samuel Mensah, is at the heart of driving a new wave of innovation through an integrated fashion and design hub that empowers local talent, bridges skill gaps, and connects African creators to global mar- kets, with his newly launched ‘Ananse Centre for Design’. From Lagos, the continent’s fashion capital, Mensah speaks with Sunday Ehigiator and Omolabake Fasogbon, on how he is building what he envisions as the future of sustain- able fashion entrepreneurship, a space where creativity, technology, and opportunity converge to retain Africa’s po- sition as a competitive force in the global design industry. With an eye for trends and a passion for nurturing raw tal- ent, he believes Nigeria and Africa are not just consumers of global fashion but key influencers shaping it
Who is Samuel Mensah?
I’m the Founder and CEO of Ananse Africa. We are a platform for African creatives and the company behind the Ananse Centre for Design in Lagos, the first of its kind in Africa. We call it an integrated or comprehensive fashion hub, which means that everything a fashion creative needs to move their business forward and go to market is accessible within the facility. There are different studios for various types of products, from leather to clothing to photography. We also provide different forms of training that creatives can access, including business training, product development, and quality assurance training.
What inspired the Ananse Centre, and how does this speak to your broader goal for Africa?
What inspired the Ananse Centre are the creatives we work with. As a platform for African creatives, we interact with talents from across the continent. Repeatedly, we received requests from fashion creatives for additional support. We understood their challenges: lack of resources, poor product quality, and limited access to the right equipment. When creatives don’t have access to proper equipment, it affects the quality of their products. Poor quality then restricts their access to certain markets because their products don’t meet the standards that attract customers. Even within local markets, there’s a segment of consumers that will not buy their products due to quality issues. We saw a real need in Nigeria, which happens to be our largest market. We currently operate in several markets: Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Senegal, Ivory Coast, and South Africa.
You just launched in Nigeria. Why Nigeria, and Why Lagos?
This is the first centre we’ve launched on the African continent, and we chose Nigeria because of the significance of its creative economy to both Africa and the world. Trends often start in Nigeria, spread across Africa, and then influence the rest of the world. Lagos, in particular, is the fashion capital of Nigeria, and arguably of the entire continent. There’s a critical mass of young creatives here who need the kinds of services that we provide at the centre.
How do you describe the gap this centre is coming to fill in Africa’s fashion and design ecosystem?
This centre fills several gaps. The first is the gap in skills and training. In collaboration with the federal government, the centre is registered and certified by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), meaning it is certified to provide technical education in fashion. Beyond training, we also provide access to equipment and digital tools. The centre has state-of-the-art equipment in ten different studios, from leather, shoes, and bags to clothing, photography, and content creation. Everything is available under one roof.
The centre promises to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity. How do you intend to achieve this, especially for budding and emerging designers?
There are a lot of creatives with natural talent, but talent alone doesn’t always translate to income. You can be talented yet limited by certain factors that prevent your business from growing. That’s where this centre comes in to help unblock those challenges. First, we focus on skills. Creatives and fashion designers can come here for training, and they can also bring their staff. One of the most common complaints among designers is the difficulty of finding reliable, skilled workers, and we’re helping to solve that. Second, we provide access to modern equipment. For example, if a designer wants to do
Samuel Mensah: Talent Alone Doesn’t Always Translate to Income
embroidery, we have digital, state-of-the-art machines. a job that might take one person two days can now be done in minutes, at a small cost.
Do you have the capacity to accommodate every Lagos-based designer?
probably not. But we have to start somewhere. the Minister was here recently; we have an MOu with the Federal Ministry of arts, Culture, tourism and Creative economy. together, we’re addressing this issue. this centre serves as a blueprint, the first of its kind. to reach all designers in Lagos, or Nigeria at large, we’ll need more collaborations. Our partners include the MasterCard Foundation and the Federal Ministry. together, we’re looking at scaling this initiative. It’s important that we’ve started, and it’s right here in Lagos.
How will the centre ensure inclusivity, especially for women, displaced persons, and underrepresented groups?
Inclusivity was built into the design of this centre. For example, the building is wheelchair accessible, with a lift to reach every floor. all doors are double-volume, wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs. We’re also working on creating disability-friendly toilets. Because we had to retrofit the building, some accessibility features are being added gradually. In future centres, which we’ll design from scratch, inclusivity will be built in from the ground up. When it comes to women, most of the people who work here are women, and about 70 per cent of our users are women. the centre is designed to be mother-friendly, with spaces for childcare and breastfeeding. there’s even a child monitor to assist mothers while they work or learn.
What specific training programmes or mentorship initiatives can young designers look forward to here?
We have five core modules. Our goal is not just to create skilled creatives, but also successful business people in the creative industry. Most of the modules are businessoriented, covering marketing, accounting, law, and intellectual property. We also train them in pricing, margins, and cost calculation, areas that many creatives struggle with. We provide toolkits and templates to help them manage their businesses effectively. then we have product development and quality assurance training, focusing on machinery, production processes, and quality standards. essentially, we teach both business and technical skills because both are critical to commercial success.
Have you made provisions for uneducated or informal apprentices?
yes. While our current curriculum is in english, we intend to introduce courses in pidgin english soon. you don’t need to speak perfect english to learn how to sew, make shoes, or create bags. Communication and manual skills are enough. In the future, we plan to translate our curriculum and assessments into pidgin english so everyone can participate and still earn NBte-certified certificates. even complex topics like accounting or law can be taught in pidgin english to ensure full comprehension.
Technology is transforming fashion globally. How is Ananse integrating digital tools like CAD, e-commerce, and AI into its training and production?
ananse started as an e-commerce platform, so digital innovation is in our dNa all our training modules are digitally available. We partner with leading tech companies to stay at the cutting edge. For example, we have a partnership with Clo3d, a global design and production software company. We’re a certified centre for computer-aided design (Cad) training. these digital tools empower creatives to earn income globally, even from home. designers trained here can create tech packs and designs for clients anywhere in the world, earning in dollars or euros while based in Lagos.
The centre is a one-stop hub. How does this structure help train African designers to become global competitors?
the one-stop model is deliberate. success in fashion requires multiple elements: design, production, marketing, photography, and
storytelling. For example, a creative may produce a beautiful dress or bag, but if they take a poor-quality photo, customers will assume the product itself is poor. that’s why we teach the importance of presentation alongside product creation. the way you present a product is as important as the product itself. By housing photography, design, production, and marketing studios under one roof, we make it easier for designers to manage every stage of their business in one place.
How important is technology in all this? technology is vital, as is innovation. We want african creatives to embrace technology, not fear it. However, as we advance technologically, we must also celebrate and preserve artisanal skills. the goal is not to replace craftsmanship with machines but to merge both, using technology to enhance and promote handmade excellence.
The centre is backed by Mastercard Foundation and the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy. Why do you see such public-private partnerships as crucial? some of the challenges we’re solving are too large for one entity. When creatives lack resources, they can’t afford proper tools or staff, leading to poor-quality output and limited income, a vicious cycle of poverty. Breaking that cycle requires external intervention, training, access to equipment, mentorship, and markets. t hat’s why partnerships are crucial. t hey turn that vicious cycle into a virtuous one, where better training leads to better products, which attract more customers, increase income, and create jobs.
On a lighter note, if every tailor in Lagos suddenly walked in here tomorrow, what would happen?
We might need a second building! Honestly, if every tailor in Lagos came in at once, we’d have a queue around the block. But that’s a good problem to have; it would mean the creative sector is alive and engaged. that’s also why we’re building partnerships and planning to open more centres across Nigeria. this one is just the first. the goal is to replicate the model in other major cities and states so that access to training and resources isn’t limited to Lagos alone.
How are you promoting sustainability and responsible production through the centre?
sustainability is central to our model. We support both small-scale contract manufacturing and artisanal craftsmanship. Many designers can’t afford to produce in large volumes, so we’ve introduced small-batch production, anywhere from 10 to 100 units. this allows designers to grow gradually without overextending themselves. It’s a sustainable business model. We also teach eco-friendly production methods, especially regarding the use of dyes and materials. sustainability isn’t just about the environment; it’s about building businesses that can last.
How do you plan to measure the impact and success of the centre?
We measure both reach and impact. Our target is to train and support at least 5,000 creatives initially and to track their business growth over time. We’ve put in place a monitoring and evaluation system, including a call centre, to follow up with our alumni. We’ll monitor progress in areas like income growth, job creation, exports, and access to international markets. success for us isn’t just the number of people trained; it’s the number of people whose lives and businesses have actually improved as a result.
What’s your five-year vision for this initiative?
In five years, I want to see at least ten ananse Centres across Nigeria and thousands of thriving fashion entrepreneurs whose businesses have grown beyond survival into sustainability and scale. We want african creatives to be earning in foreign currencies, exporting globally, and competing at the highest levels. ultimately, we’re working toward an ecosystem where african fashion doesn’t just inspire the world creatively but also leads commercially, where the continent becomes a recognised global production hub.
Do you see competition in this space, and how do you view it? yes, there will be competition, and that’s a good thing. Competition keeps everyone on their toes. Nigeria alone has over 200 million people; no single company can meet the demand of such a huge market.
If other organisations start doing what we’re doing, that means we’re making an impact. It means we’ve set a standard worth following. I welcome competition. I want ananse to remain a pioneer and pace-setter, but competition will help the entire industry grow faster.
How would you assess Africa’s readiness to lead in the global creative economy? africa has always led creatively; our colours, patterns, and ideas have influenced global fashion for decades. the challenge hasn’t been creativity; it’s been execution and scale. We haven’t always had the infrastructure, training, or systems to turn creativity into a global enterprise. that’s changing now. With better facilities, mentorship, digital tools, and international partnerships, africa can convert its creative genius into economic power.
What kind of partnerships exist between Ananse and Nigeria’s local creative icons, such as Nike Art Gallery, and also the country’s textile industry?
Mama Nike is an absolute legend, a fountain of knowledge and one of the greatest custodians of Nigeria’s artistic heritage. We collaborate with her and other master artisans to ensure that traditional skills and techniques are preserved and passed down. We also work with leather goods associations, tailors’ unions, and major markets like Balogun to integrate the local value chain into the digital economy. the idea is to build a system that connects the traditional and the modern, the market woman and the e-commerce designer, in one creative ecosystem.
Who are some of your favourite African designers, and what draws you to their work?
For menswear, I deeply admire Mai atafo; his precision, attention to detail, and consistency are unmatched. I also love ethnik by tunde Owolabi, for the way he blends traditional weaving techniques with modern design. and of course, designers like Maki Oh, abu, and Mat Kele, all incredibly original and authentic in their approach. these are the kinds of talents that show the world what african creativity truly looks like when done at the highest level.
Who would you consider your mentors or biggest influences?
From a fashion perspective, I’ve always looked up to Oswald Boateng. He’s world-class, disciplined, and deeply rooted in his african identity; a perfect example of how global and local can coexist. From a business standpoint, I admire abubakar suleiman of sterling Bank and Chris ubosi of Megaelectrics. Both are incredible strategic thinkers and marketers. But I also learn every day from the creatives we train. Many of them teach me more than they realise; their resilience, innovation, and hunger constantly inspire me.
You originally trained in finance and technology. How did that path lead you to fashion?
I studied economics and began my career in investment banking, venture capital, and technology, including time in silicon Valley. But I’ve always believed in the power of africa’s creativity. after several years in finance and tech, I decided to take that experience and apply it to building something that could unlock africa’s creative potential. Fashion became my chosen vehicle because it sits at the intersection of culture, identity, and commerce. It’s where creativity meets global opportunity. For me, it’s not just about clothes; it’s about proving that african creativity can be globally competitive and commercially sustainable.
Final thoughts, what message would you give to young African creatives today? Believe in your talent, but back it with structure, discipline, and strategy. Creativity without structure can only go so far. to succeed globally, we need to combine passion with professionalism, and that’s what we’re building at ananse.
africa has everything it needs to lead: creativity, youth, and culture. the next step is infrastructure and mindset. If we get those right, there’s no limit to what we can achieve.
Mensah
Bemoaning Absence of Vehicle Finance Schemes Reps
Industry Committee to Invite CBN, BoI, NADDC
expressing grave concern, the House of representatives committee on Industry has condemned the absence of the federal government’s intensional finance for the manufacture and purchase of vehicles in Nigeria, describing it as a needless lapse in the country’s socio-economic development.
they are also concerned that some Nigerian banks operating in some West African countries, particularly Ghana, provide single digit, low interest loans to vehicle manufacturers in that country and to their citizens for vehicle purchase.
“these Nigerian banks are in Ghana and they are giving facilities for manufacture and purchase of vehicles at single digit, but not in their country of origin. I’ve never understood this,” said the committee’s chairman, Dr enitan badru, during their visit to the vehicle assembly plant of toyota Nigeria Limited (tNL) in Ikotun, Lagos, during the week.
the committee then resolved to invite some stakeholders- the central bank of Nigeria, the bank of Industry, and the National Automotive Design and Development council (NADDc)- to provide solution to vehicle finance in Nigeria that will enable vehicle manufacturers and prospective vehicle owners take single digit loans from banks in the country.
For First Time, 25th Abuja International Motor Fair Organiser Moves into Covered
“to be doing exports means they must have reached some high-quality standards, and from what I have seen, they have got their acts right and are doing something that should be emulated.
they also visited the assembly plant of Proforce Limited, defence solutions provider in Ogun State. they were taken on a tour of the facility by the Head of Operations of Proforce, Ayobami Ogundeyin. badru lauded the Perforce, saying, “I’m really proud of an indigenous corporation handling defence institution gadgets, and I am also very elated that not only are they doing it right for Nigeria, but they are also doing exports as well.
“right now, the Nigerian Army, from what I have learnt, is a stakeholder in this institution, and I am sure by the time we get to some years ahead, they too will be improving because the whole world is not waiting.
“by the time we know it, AI and all that will take over, and so they must be upgrading along the line as well. by the time you wait, thinking you have got something, next year something else is out, so they must be upgraded.”
Carloha Sponsors NAPE Golf Tournament with Tiggo 8 Pro As Hole-in-One Prize
carloha Nigeria, the exclusive distributor of chery automobiles in Nigeria, has announced its sponsorship of the upcoming NAPe (Nigerian Association of Petroleum explorationists) Golf tournament, which will take place in November 2025, at Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
As part of this sponsorship, Carloha is offering a brand-new chery tiggo 8 Pro SUV to the golfer who achieves a hole-in-one — a gesture that underlines carloha’s commitment to building strong relationships with the oil and gas sector while celebrating excellence through sport. the sponsorship, themed “Strengthening bonds with Nigeria’s Oil & Gas Sector through Golf”, represents a deliberate step by carloha to engage with one of Nigeria’s most critical industries. Golf, with its traditions of discipline, precision, and strategy, mirrors the qualities that define both the engineering of Chery vehicles and the professionalism of Nigeria’s oil and gas community.
Speaking on the initiative, Mr. Felix Mahan, General Manager, Marketing, carloha Nigeria, stated, “We are proud to be part of the NAPe Golf tournament. It is a prestigious platform that exemplifies excellence, unity, and community spirit. At carloha, we believe in the power of sports to bring people together, inspire high performance, and positively impact society.” expanding on the partnership, Mr. Mahan added, “the values embodied by the game of
As the year draws to a close, Suzuki by cFAO, one of Nigeria’s leading automotive dealerships, has announced a significant year-end price revision on its most sought-after premium models, making advanced Japanese engineering more accessible than ever.
From October until December 31st, 2025, the spotlight is on Suzuki’s flagship SUVs—the sophisticated Grand Vitara, the urban-chic Fronx, and the iconic Jimny. this initiative is designed to empower more Nigerians to experience vehicles built specifically for the unique demands of Nigerian life, all while enjoying unparalleled value.
engineered for Nigerian roads, Priced for
golf — class, precision, and discipline — closely mirror those of the petroleum industry, which is renowned for its commitment to safety and operational excellence. these are principles that both carloha and chery deeply cherish.”
“by sponsoring this distinguished tournament and presenting the tiggo 8 Pro as the Hole-inOne prize, we aim to foster healthy competition, celebrate achievement, and reinforce our shared commitment to excellence.” Mahan concluded.
the chery tiggo 8 Pro, represents a perfect blend of innovation, comfort, and luxury. Designed with executives and industry leaders in mind, the seven-seater vehicle offers, Smart technology
Nigerian Ambition
Suzuki’s philosophy centres on creating robust, fuel-efficient, and capable vehicles. this is evident in the models featured in this campaign:
the Suzuki Grand Vitara: A blend of urban sophistication and off-road readiness. With a commanding 210mm ground clearance, a fuelefficient 1.5L engine, and advanced features like a 360-degree camera, the Grand Vitara is engineered to navigate city potholes and country roads with equal confidence. Its impressive fuel economy of up to 23 km/l makes it a smart long-term investment for families and professionals. Under the end Of Year campaign, the Grand Vitara GL is offered at N43 million instead of N48 million, while the GLX goes for N51 million instead of N56 million.
with an advanced digital cockpit and infotainment system, Premium comfort through leather-trimmed interiors and versatile space, and Performance and safety with a turbocharged engine and intelligent driver-assist features. More importantly, the tiggo 8 Pro, like all other chery passenger vehicles from carloha comes standard with the carloha care 6-6-7 package, which offers a 6-year warranty, 6 years free service and 7 days repair promise.
Positioned as a prize for excellence at the tournament, the tiggo 8 Pro highlights carloha’s drive to reward distinction and provide premium mobility solutions tailored to the aspirations of Nigerian professionals.
The Suzuki Fronx: This model redefines urban mobility with its sleek design and modern connectivity features, without sacrificing the rugged DNA of an SUV. It offers a compelling package for the style-conscious driver who requires efficiency and capability in equal measure. While the price of the GL drop from N41 million to N40 million, the GLX dropped to N44 million as against the previous N45 million. the Suzuki Jimny: More than just a vehicle, the Jimny is a legend. Its rugged 4x4 capability, now in a more practical 5-door format, is built to conquer Nigeria’s toughest terrains. Its compact size makes it perfect for dense city traffic, while its proven off-road prowess unlocks adventure beyond the city limits. the price of this strong, sturdy and sophisticated Jimmy throughout this year will be N49 million instead of N50 million.
the stage is set for the landmark 25th edition of the Abuja International Motor Fair, Nigeria’s premier automotive event, scheduled to hold from tuesday, November 18 to Friday, November 21, 2025, at eagle Square, Abuja. this milestone edition, themed “Driving the Future: Innovation, commerce, and Mobility,” is strategically designed to attract a wide spectrum of high-value decision-makers. Invitations have been extended to Federal and State Ministries of transport, Works, and Finance; all 774 Local Government Areas; key Parastatals and Agencies; top-tier fleet operators; and private high-net-worth buyers. In what promises to be the most exciting and transformative edition yet, the organisers have announced that—for the first time in the history of the event—the fair will be held under fully covered exhibition stands, moving away from the traditional open-air setup. this major upgrade is designed to enhance visitor comfort, ensure uninterrupted displays regardless of weather conditions, and provide a world-class platform befitting Nigeria’s leading motor industry showcase.
“For a quarter of a century, the Abuja Motor Fair has been Nigeria’s premier automotive showcase. this year, we are elevating the experience to match the importance of our audience,” said the chief Organiser. “Moving to a fully covered, climate-controlled environment is a direct response to feedback from our esteemed exhibitors and visitors. It ensures a more professional, comfortable, and secure setting for conducting high-level business, showcasing the finest vehicles and technology without concern for the elements.” the transition to a covered venue underscores the Fair’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for major commercial transactions. the event has long been the preferred platform for government bodies to assess and procure vehicles for official use, and for fleet managers to source large volumes of reliable vehicles for their operations. this upgrade to a covered arena is expected to significantly boost exhibitor participation and sales, providing an unparalleled opportunity for brands to connect directly with Nigeria’s most influential automotive buyers.
High-Networth Fleet Buyers and Institutional Visitors Expected
According to the organisers, this year’s edition is expected to attract an exceptional calibre of visitors, including high-networth fleet managers and institutional buyers from both the public and private sectors.
Confirmed attendees include representatives of state governments, local government councils, federal and state ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), as well as corporate organisations, financial institutions, transport unions, and individual automobile enthusiasts. Organisers noted that the upgraded exhibition format will enhance business-to-business and business-to-consumer interactions, allowing buyers to negotiate directly with manufacturers and distributors, while also enjoying interactive product demonstrations, live test drives, and exclusive fair-only discounts.
Members, House of representatives Committee on Industry at perforce in ogun State… recently
Chery Tiggo 8 pro
The Suzuki Grand Vitara
Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394
Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com
Bolaji Ogunmola: Being Celebrity Can Be Lifestyle, But Acting is a Profession
Nollywood actress, Bolaji Ogunmola’s image excites. She knows and she is proud of it. Beyond her image lies a busy and determined creative who knows that whatever positive impact you make of yourself matters. Bolaji shares more in this chat with Ferdinand Ekechukwu
You have featured in quite agoodnumberofmovies, whichoneofthesemovies readilycomestoyourmind andwhy?
I think Sobi’s Mystic because it changed the game for me.
Well stardom is relative; the fact that people know what you do and they identify with it and you mix with them. that just makes me happy and humble. So, if that is what qualifies as stardom then, so be it. If not, I would still say that I’m upcoming (laughs).
My lifestyle? Well, to me, I don’t think I have a life anymore. I mean, I’m so busy that I don’t even have a social life so to speak. I’m always on the move, always doing stuff. You literally don’t have a life. that’s the honest truth.
Ifyouweren’tintoactingwhatwouldyou havebeendoing?
Interestingly I would have been a business owner. I love business a lot. though, I’m still a business owner anyway. What would I have been? Maybe a lawyer. Yes. being a lawyer would have been one of it. I’m sorry I have not even studied anything that is related to arts or law or anything about that.
What excites you most as an actor and whatinspiresyou?
I think the script, the production value, the people involved. there’s something amazing about having people who have you know synergy, that have a goal and a vision. they
are all… I mean we all work together because filmmaking is collaboration. It’s not one person. So that excites me. I always want to give my 100% to those people. that inspires me so much in my career together with my ability to better myself and the ability to grow as a person.
There’s been this notion that showbiz is no place for women who want to build a homeandfamily.What’syourtakeonthis?
I think it’s untrue. It is whatever you are, is what you are. People cannot change what you are. If you are not a family-oriented person being an actor will not change that. Or will not make you a family-oriented person. I think it all boils down to your values you know – growing up, what you believe in. these are the things that elevates or make you look it. they now make it look like because you are an actor, no. It’s who you are! It’s like having money and you now say because the person has money now he’s proud. He has always been proud. You know values are things that are innate. It’s something that you have before whatever it is you become. Still talking about this thing, you have to understand that acting is a profession. It’s not a lifestyle. being a celebrity can be a lifestyle, but acting is a profession like every other profession.
Looking at your career from when you started in 2013 you have done pretty well for yourself you know owning your own production company so to say. but to some extent perception about the success of female actors in Nollywood mostly is linked to ‘male sponsors,’ what is your take on that? that’s their business. In this life, any woman that is doing well is automatically seen as somebody being sponged. And it’s not necessarily true… they wouldn’t even look at the number of works; do you understand.
Sometimes, you don’t sleep. I can’t remember the last time I actually had a free week – a free seven days to myself. It has not happened in like four/five months and that’s the truth. So it’s a perception. It is the world that we are living in. Some don’t even respect the work that the person puts in. My job is not to convince you that this is it. My job is to do my own and live my life the way I deem it fit. And I’m good with my conscience. I don’t have any capacity to start explaining. I don’t even want to explain myself to people; there’s no point.
Well (laughs, laughs again), I feel like being nude; what is the content of the film? Does the script have to do with whether it is really needed to be nude or not? It’s not really fully about the money. Money is a huge consideration for anything in life but what is the context of that script? Do you really need to go nude? Do you understand… if the content is right I would limp towards it. but if the context is wrong, I will not.
Soifthecontextisrightyouwouldlimp towards the nude role?
that’s the thing. but the truth about it is you know we have video technology these days that you will never know that it is not the person, that you will never know it’s not me if you are not in the room where we are filming. There are ways to go about it these days. So it’s never about being categorically nude; except for the sake of this interview let me say no because I know that if I have the right context I can go nude in a film.
Apost some time ago gave you away as asinglemother.Whoisyouridealman? I’m not a single mother. I don’t have a child. I have a godson I don’t have a child. My ideal man is someone that has values. Someone that is God-fearing. Someone that is spontaneous. Someone that knows what he wants out of life and pursuing it.
So you are not concern about how rich, howfathispocketis?
that’s interesting because if you are on your path and doing well you should be comfortable as of to do. If you are not comfortable, what are you looking… why are you craving somebody?
Pitstop Restaurant Expands Vision with Launch of Lifestyle Village, ‘Phoenix’
Ferdinand ekechukwu
In a celebration of resilience, creativity, and community growth, Pitstop restaurant has officially launched its expanded Pitstop Village in Ikoyi, Lagos, transforming from a modest themed café into a full-fledged lifestyle and wellness hub.
Founded in December 2019, the brand grew from a cycling community into a hospitality success story, weathering a seven-month pandemic closure, the
founder, Aminadab Adegboro hinted, describing the journey as an authentic Nigerian story of “dreaming, doing, and community,” thanking investors, partners, and the Lagos public for their support.
Speaking at the event, the founder also reaffirmed Pitstop’s dedication to youth empowerment through its Pitstop Academy, which trains and mentors 400 underserved children and 45 elite cyclists.
The Academy, she said, reflects the brand’s social mission of giving back to society through sports, education, and wellness. “We believe in building
Davido Announces Nigerian Dates for his 5ive Tour, Set
Tosin Clegg
It’s been a great year for Davido so far, and his 5ive tour across several states in North America has been nothing short of spectacular. From featured performances by Victony, Odumodublvck, Morravey, Adekunle Gold, among other acts, the shows indeed gave fans a true value for their tickets. ciara, Fat Joe And Jamaican star, Popcaan also made appearances during the tours which also extended to canada and further highlights the influence of Davido on the global music stage.
Davido’s energy is undeniably unmatched, and with such an excellent team behind him, we can’t help but expect greatness portrayed at all he does. complementing his work ethic is also the brilliance of his long-term manager, Asa Asika, who has done a fantastic job working with Davido.
Kicking off the tour is Akwa Ibom on the 26th of October 2025, followed by a rather surprising location, Adamawa, scheduled for October 29th. November 1st he touches down in enugu and
Ibadan follows next on the 9th of November, before the grand finale in the city that births mega global superstars, Lagos on Christmas Day, 25th of December 2025.
Davido shared via Instagram post his excitement over this home tour, saying, “I’m blessed to perform all around the world, and everywhere I go, Nigeria goes with me. but this time I’m bringing it HOMe.”
“After an unforgettable North American tour, it’s only right we bring that energy back where it all began. Me 5IVe tOUr NIGerIA, y’all ready??!!
this one’s for the culture. this one’s personal. this one’s for US.”
As soon as the post went live, many fans stormed his comments section, sharing anticipation for the tour dates, but many are also seeking his listing of their locations, as well as a few who are surprised Abuja and Osun aren’t scheduled for the tour. but would more locations and dates be added as fans are eager to have a dose of his experience? Sadly, that might only be unveiled in the coming days as he his expected to wrap up his North America tour in Atlanta on thursday 20th November 2025.
people alongside building business,” he remarked, pledging to sustain the brand’s commitment to staff training and community engagement.
General Manager of the newlylaunched outlet, Jamal bendghoughi, highlighted the restaurant’s distinct fusion of French and African cuisine and its integration of a café, gym, and rooftop bar overlooking the Lagos bridge. “everything we serve is made from scratch — our bread, ice cream, sauces — all using fresh, local ingredients,” he said.
Tosin Clegg
As FUJI: A OPerA marks its milestone 5th anniversary, the pioneering multi-dimensional music platform is proud to announce the upcoming edition of Fuji Vibrations 2025, themed “tHIS /S FUJI”, scheduled for Thursday, December 4th, 2025, at its resident home, Muri Okunola Park, Lagos.
Over the past five years, FUJI: A Opera has transformed from a bold experiment into a full-fledged movement - one that has reshaped how a new generation experiences and celebrates indigenous Nigerian music. What began in 2020 as a multi-dimensional exhibition at Alliance Française de Lagos has evolved into an annual open-air concert attracting thousands of fans, uniting Fuji’s legendary voices with fresh, emerging talent. this year’s theme, “tHIS IS FUJI”, is both a declaration and a reflection. It captures the confidence of a genre that has found new rhythm, relevance, and resonance. Once misunderstood and underrepresented, Fuji music now sits at the
He further described PitStop Village as an all-in-one lifestyle experience offering wellness, fine dining, and social connection, with weekly DJ sessions on Fridays and live jazz performances on Sundays. Guests at the event also witnessed the unveiling of Phoenix by Pitstop, a luxurious entertainment space designed to complement the lifestyle village. the venue features high-quality furnishings, elegant lighting, and a vibrant atmosphere for food, music, and social gatherings.
core of Nigeria’s pop culture, inspiring Afrobeats megastars who proudly reference it in their music, language, and visual storytelling.
“Fuji is no longer on the sidelines,” said bobo Omotayo, creator and Founder of FUJI: A Opera. today, it’s the pulse behind the sound of modern Nigeria. With tHIS IS FUJI, we’re not just celebrating a genre, we’re celebrating its subculture and claiming its rightful place in the global music narrative. this edition is about identity, pride, and ownership.”
Last year’s edition drew an impressive 7,000+ concertgoers, turning Muri Okunola Park into a festival of rhythm, colour, and unity. this year, organizers are shifting gears to deliver the biggest, most immersive celebration yet - a full-sensory experience of live music, fashion, art, and heritage, anchored by the vibrant heartbeat of Fuji.
A central part of FUJI: A Opera’s success has been its unwavering partnership with FUMAN (Fuji Musicians Association of Nigeria), led by Alhaji Sikiru Agboola (popularly known as Kolotiti). Since inception, FUMAN has been more than a collaborator, it has been family. together, FUJI: A Opera and FUMAN have worked hand-in-hand to preserve Fuji’s legacy while nurturing its next generation of stars.
Ogunmola
FeATureS A Life of Purpose, Grace: Celebrating Olatunji Olusoji
Prosper taiwo
There are people whose lives quietly ripple through the world, and then there are those whose presence becomes a source of light for everyone around them. Engr. Olatunji Olusoji, the Asiwaju I of Ayere Kingdom in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, belongs to the latter. His story is one of faith, courage, and an uncommon devotion to humanity. For those of us who have had the privilege to know him closely, his life remains a daily reminder that true greatness lies in service and humility.
When Olusoji marked his birthday on the 13th of October, it was not just another date on the calendar. It was a celebration of purpose, of a man whose journey has been guided by grace and shaped by the desire to make life better for others.
Fondly called “The Unifier” by his people, he has worked tirelessly to bring peace and understanding to the different communities of Kogi State. His leadership is not the loud, attention-seeking kind. It is quiet, steady, and deeply rooted in his belief that progress is possible when people choose unity over division.
Through his foundation, the Prince Olatunji Olusoji Foundation, known as PROOF, he has built a legacy of compassion that continues to touch lives across the state and beyond. For him, philanthropy is not a pastime or a performance; it is a calling. I have watched him approach every act of giving with sincerity, ensuring that help reaches those who need it most. His work cuts across education, healthcare, security, and community development, often carried out without fanfare or publicity.
Every year, his foundation provides 1,000 free JAMB forms to young people who would otherwise have been unable to afford them. He has established free CBT centres across Kogi West, awarded scholarships worth over 50 million naira to students in tertiary institutions, and donated 100 million naira to Vine University in the United States to promote global education exchange. Thousands of schoolchildren have benefited from his annual distribution of books and school bags, a gesture that has become a
His heart for people goes beyond the classroom. Through a N15 million agricultural fund, he has supported farmers and small business owners. He has built six rural markets
to encourage local trade, provided free medical care for pregnant women, funded eye surgeries for the vulnerable, and offered rehabilitation for mentally ill persons abandoned by society. His foundation also extends its kindness through annual Ramadan and Easter outreach programmes that bring relief to communities across Nigeria. Even in matters of security, he has contributed significantly by donating patrol vehicles to local governments and supporting the rebuilding of police stations and community infrastructure. What stands out about Olusoji is that his generosity is matched by a deep commitment to hard work and innovation. In 2016, he founded Grosvenor Global Services Limited,
Nigeria’s Economic Outlook at a Turning Point
Baba Musa
As we move further into 2025, Nigeria’s economic story is one of resilience, renewal, and strategic recalibration. Globally, economies are grappling with slowing growth, projected at 2.7% in 2025 by the IMF for advanced economies, and heightened geopolitical risks that affect trade and investment. Against this backdrop, Nigeria has demonstrated remarkable determination. Domestically, inflationary pressures, infrastructure deficits, and unemployment persist, yet they now represent policy frontiers rather than defining constraints.
Recent policy measures, ranging from fiscal consolidation to targeted monetary adjustments, have laid the groundwork for a sustainable growth trajectory. The real test, however, lies not only in achieving stability but in ensuring that it translates into tangible socio-economic outcomes: decent jobs, rising incomes, improved productivity, and broader social welfare.
If Nigeria deepens reforms, invests strategically in human capital, and leverages its structural advantages, the country can achieve not only recovery but inclusive and durable economic transformation.
Positive Developments in the Nigerian Economy
Nigeria’s economic trajectory is increasingly encouraging. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects real GDP growth of 3.9% in 2025, up from 3.5% in 2024, with further acceleration to 4.2% in 2026. This growth is underpinned by:
Stronger oil production following operational improvements and policy reforms in the petroleum sector.
Recovery in services, particularly telecommunications, financial services, and transport, reflecting resilient domestic demand.
Improved agricultural output, thanks to favorable weather patterns and government support for mechanization and inputs.
The recent GDP rebasing has also given a more accurate reflection of the economy, capturing growth in high-potential sectors such as digital services, modular refining, and the creative industries. This expanded view highlights opportunities for job creation, innovation, and revenue generation that were previously underappreciated.
Inflation Moderation and Monetary Policy Realignment
Inflation remains elevated but is gradually moderating. Headline inflation declined to 18.02% in September 2025, down from 20.12% in August, reflecting improved food supply, seasonal harvests, and targeted interventions in the energy market.
The Central Bank of Nigeria’s interest rate cut, the first since 2020, signals a nuanced policy shift: a deliberate effort to balance price stability with growth and employment objectives. This approach is consistent with modern macroeconomic management, where inflation targeting is tempered by the need to stimulate investment and
production in key sectors.
Fiscal Discipline and Debt Manage- ment
The Federal Government’s approval of the MediumTerm Debt Management Strategy (MTDS) 2024–2027 reflects a professional recognition that sustainable growth requires fiscal prudence alongside strategic borrowing.
Key objectives include:
Extending average debt maturity to at least 10 years, reducing refinancing risk and interest rate volatility. Reducing foreign-exchange-denominated debt to 45%, mitigating vulnerability to exchange rate shocks.
From an economist’s perspective, the MTDS positions Nigeria to borrow for growth, not consumption, ensuring that public investment projects generate returns exceeding debt servicing costs. This is a critical step toward fiscal sustainability and investor confidence.
Foreign Investment and Energy Sector Confidence
Investor sentiment is improving, illustrated by Shell’s approval of the HI Offshore Gas Project, expected to supply 350 million standard cubic feet of gas per day to Nigeria LNG.
Economically, such projects deliver multiplier effects: they stimulate domestic suppliers, create high-skill and semi-skilled jobs, and strengthen Nigeria’s position as a reliable energy hub in Africa. They also enhance balance of payments stability, by promoting export-oriented production. Strategic Priorities for Sustained Economic Improvement
Expanding Infrastructure and Power Supply
The reduction of electricity subsidies by 35% and adoption of a targeted tariff structure have freed fiscal resources. However, long-term industrial growth requires strategic investment in energy generation, transmission, and distribution, as well as transport, logistics, and digital infrastructure. Economically, infrastructure is not just a cost, it is a productivity multiplier. Reliable power and transport reduce production costs, attract investment, and enable firms to scale.
Deepening Economic Diversification
a company that has become a respected name in Nigeria’s oil and gas, marine logistics, aviation, mining, and infrastructure sectors. Through this enterprise, he has continued to empower people and create opportunities that transform lives. He also serves as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Tratun Energy Limited and Executive Director at Regions Oil and Gas, where he remains a strong advocate of ethical leadership and sustainable business practices.
A man of intellect and curiosity, Olusoji is a graduate of Mechanical Engineering from the University of Benin. He has pursued further studies at the London School of Economics and Political Science, the Asian Development Bank Institute, the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, and the Harvard Kennedy School of Government. He is currently completing a Master’s degree in Oil and Gas Management at the University of East London, proving that personal growth is a lifelong journey.
His contributions have earned him more than 145 awards from government agencies, civil society groups, and private institutions. He holds several distinguished titles, including Asiwaju of Ayere Kingdom, Turaki Gamji of Arewa Kingdom, and Basorun Akinjagunla of Ogidi Kingdom. He has also been conferred with an honorary doctorate from Vine University in America. Among his many recognitions are the Peace Legends Award for Humanitarian Leadership and the Golden Torch of Humanity Award, both celebrating his commitment to the wellbeing of others.
Yet beyond the accolades, the Prince I know is a deeply spiritual man who carries his faith with quiet strength. He is a devoted Christian, a committed family man, and a loving husband and father to two children. In his home, as in his public life, he leads with kindness and humility.
As I reflect on his journey, I am reminded that some lives are not just lived; they are shared generously with others. Olusoji represents the best of our values — faith, compassion, discipline, and a genuine desire to build a better Nigeria. His life is proof that leadership rooted in love can heal divisions and inspire generations.
As we continue to celebrate him beyond his birthday, we celebrate more than one man’s achievements. We celebrate a vision, a spirit of service, and a heart that beats for humanity. May his light continue to guide us toward a future built on faith, equity, and shared hope.
Dependence on oil exposes the economy to global price volatility. True resilience demands diversification into labourintensive, exportable, and technologically dynamic sectors. Accelerating reforms in agriculture, manufacturing, mining, and technology is crucial. Agro-processing, renewable energy, and ICT not only generate jobs but also expand Nigeria’s value-added capacity, a critical determinant of long-term growth.
Social Protection and Human Develop- ment
Growth without inclusion is unsustainable. Expanding social safety nets, skills development, and youth employment programs ensures that reform gains are widely shared. Investments in conditional cash transfers, digital skills programs, and microfinance access are not mere social measures, they are strategic economic interventions that increase productivity, stabilize consumption, and reduce social unrest.
Strengthening Governance and Institu- tional Capacity
Policy consistency and institutional efficiency are nonnegotiable for lasting economic progress. Strengthening transparent institutions, digital government processes, and public procurement systems reduces leakages, encourages private investment, and enhances policy credibility. From an economist’s standpoint, strong institutions are a precondition for structural transformation.
Key Drivers of Growth
Stronger Growth Projections
IMF forecasts of 3.9% (2025) and 4.2% (2026) reflect recovery momentum, supported by better data and emerging sectors.
Supportive Macroeconomic Fundamen-
tals
Exchange rate stabilization, rising external reserves, and improved FX transparency bolster investor confidence and economic predictability.
Musa
Olusoji
Focus
Unlocking Africa’s Capital for Sustainable Growth
Nume Ekeghe
writes on the launch of United Bank for Africa’s Whitepaper on “Unlocking Africa’s Capital for Sustainable Growth,” in Washington DC, where African leaders and financiers rallied around a bold vision to mobilise domestic capital and drive the continent’s sustainable transformation
Africa stands at a defining crossroads. A continent rich in potential yet constrained by limited access to capital. At the launch of the United Bank for Africa’s (UBA) groundbreaking Whitepaper, policymakers, financiers, and thought leaders converged to chart a new course for the continent’s economic transformation.
The event, held on the sidelines of the IMF/ World BankAnnual Meetings, spotlightedAfrica’s pressing need to mobiliSe domestic resources, attract long-term investment, and build robust financial systems that can power inclusive and sustainable growth.
The UBA Whitepaper, an ambitious blueprint for the continent’s financial awakening, calls for bold policy shifts, stronger regional integration, and innovative financing models tailored to Africa’s realities. With voices like Tony Elumelu, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, and Prof. Benedict Oramah leading the dialogue, the initiative underscored a shared conviction — that Africa’s future prosperity lies not in external aid, but in unlocking its own vast pools of capital, talent, and enterprise.
Titled “Banking on Africa’s Future: Unlocking Capital and Partnerships for Sustainable Growth,” the report noted that for decades, narratives about commercial investment in Africa have been shaped by external risk perceptions that often misrepresent local market realities.
It noted that while Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) have engaged with these risks, the focus on external capital has obscured a fundamental truth: Africa’s own financial institutions and capital holders are best placed to assess opportunities, price risks appropriately, and deploy capital effectively.
The Whitepaper reframes the challenge from a one-track traditional paradigm reliant solely on attracting external capital for growth, to a multipronged strategy with the mobilisation of Africa’s domestic financial assets as its core through innovative, African-led financing mechanisms.
This shift is urgent as traditional aid flows decline, geopolitical tensions reshape investment patterns, and technology redirects capital towards new sectors. While prioritising domestic resources, this strategy also seeks to build international partnerships, reinforcing the principle that the future of global growth has a strong African identity.
The core thesis of this new approach is the opportunity to unlock an estimated $4 trillion in domestic capital. Strategically deployed, these funds could significantly reduce the continent’s reliance on external funding and, more importantly, enhance its economic independence. The deployment of this capital where domestic development priorities are identified, will also act as a catalyst for external capital flows that align with the vision charted by national authorities.
According to the UBA report, this approach
can help secure partnerships for foreign direct investment by tapping into vast global capital pools, including $63.1 trillion in global pension funds2, $105.9 trillion in global banking assets, and $127 trillion in global equity markets.3 This figure represents the total value of all publicly traded companies globally, with the United States holding a significant portion, valued at approximately $62.2 trillion. Tapping into even a small fraction of these resources could have a transformative impact on the continent.
Also, theAfrican Finance Corporation’s (AFC) 2025 ‘State of Africa’s Infrastructure’ report notes that this capital includes approximately $2.5 trillion in commercial bank assets, over $1.1 trillion in long-term institutional capital (pensions, insurance, sovereign wealth), and $470 billion in reserves.4 Remittances supplement these resources significantly: in 2023, Sub-Saharan Africa received $54 billion and North Africa $36.8 billion, totaling $91 billion, more than double the continent’s net bilateral official development assistance.
“While not all this capital is immediately deployable, strategically channeling even a fraction can unlock transformative investment in infrastructure, energy, and social development. This initial investment creates a multiplier, attracting additional resources from global FDI flows and helping Africa achieve its growth potential.
“Mobilising domestic resources aligns directly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including those focused on energy (SDG 7), economic growth (SDG 8), infrastructure (SDG 9), and climate action (SDG 13). By redirecting local assets into these transformative sectors, African financial institutions can drive fundamental economic change and help achieve global development objectives.
“The insights in this white paper are drawn from UBA Group’s direct operational experience in 20 African countries and our presence in global financial centers like New York, London, Paris, and Dubai. As a leading African financial institution, our perspective is grounded in practical execution, a deep understanding of local markets, and a firm commitment to Africa’s economic and social development.
“We argue that financial institutions can catalyze Africa’s structural transformation by harnessing untapped domestic capital through structured, blended, impact-aligned finance, and directing global capital flows toward national growth priorities,” the report added.
Furthermore, the Whitepaper stressed that the continent is not capital-scarce but instead faces structural gaps in financial intermediation that limit the flow of domestic resources to productive investments.
These gaps include a mismatch between shortterm bank liabilities and the long-term needs of infrastructure projects; regulatory restrictions that limit pension fund investments in crucial
asset classes like infrastructure; and a scarcity of de-risking instruments that can be managed by local institutions with the deep local insight required to accurately price and mitigate on the-ground risks.
Commenting on the takeaways from the report, Elumelu, who is the Chairman of the UBA Group, Heirs Holdings and founder, Tony Elumelu Foundation, noted that development finance, as the world has known it for decades, is being reimagined.
“For Africa, this places us at a transformational crossroads, a chance to take control of our own economic destiny. Our continent, home to over 1.4 billion people, carries a paradox. Too many still live without electricity. Too many of our young men and women remain unemployed, their potential unfulfilled. Yet, this same youthful majority embodies boundless resilience, creativity, and ambition.
“Combined with our natural resources and entrepreneurial energy, Africa is rich in all that is required to secure prosperity, that is, if we mobilise effectively. I have long championed the philosophy of Africapitalism: the conviction that Africa’s private sector, when empowered with vision, capital, and responsibility, can drive sustainable growth that creates both economic prosperity and social wealth. Development finance must therefore evolve.
“It must move from aid dependency to investment partnerships; from short-term interventions to long-term commitments that deliver measurable social impact alongside financial returns. At UBA, we know this is possible. We have demonstrated it, consistently, for over 75 years.
“African financial institutions must be at the centre of this evolution. With deep local knowledge and global reach, institutions like UBA are uniquely positioned to bridge capital, connect opportunities, and de-risk investments.
This whitepaper, Banking on Africa’s Future, offers evidence-based insights and practical case studies, showing what is possible when we innovate and collaborate.
“We are not alone on this journey. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) already signal the power of collective action. New global alliances, from the Gulf to Asia and beyond, are expanding opportunities for Africa’s private sector to lead.
“The old proverb reminds us: ‘If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.’
Africa is choosing to go far. At UBA, we see our role clearly: as a bridge between domestic and global capital, between Africa and the world, between today’s challenges and tomorrow’s possibilities. With operations in 20 African countries and a strategic presence in the global financial centers of New York, London, Paris, and Dubai, we are committed to enabling Africa’s economic sovereignty and prosperity.
“This is a call to action. To policymakers, DFIs, investors, and fellow African financial institu-
tions: let us partner differently, invest boldly, and act with urgency. Together, we can ensure that Africa’s future is shaped by Africa itself, and that it is sustainable, inclusive, and driven by the aspirations of our people.”
Speaking at the launch of the report, Elumelu, emphasised that transforming the continent requires not only bold policy reforms but also a reimagining of how capital flows, entrepreneurship, and technology intersect.
“My message is simple: Africa must be included. The world must be deliberate about including Africa in the digital revolution.
“Africa must have a seat at the table where governance, practices, and protocols for artificial intelligence (AI) are being developed.
“We must be intentional about it and recognise that, in the 21st century, digital inclusion is economic inclusion.
“Digital transformation should not only lead to productivity and efficiency — it should also lead to the democratisation of prosperity.
“For us Africans, there’s a lot to do to take advantage of this moment. We’ve had revolutions before — like the mobile money revolution — and we did well. Now, there’s another opportunity before us with the digital and AI revolution,” he added.
Speaking further, Elumelu: “I use this opportunity to call on all African governments that are genuinely interested in solving youth unemployment, driving transformation, and democratising prosperity on the continent — fix the electricity challenge.
“Our youths are not asking for sympathy. They are asking for systems that work — an enabling environment that allows them to put their talents to productive use. If this happens, Africa will develop. If it doesn’t, we are doomed.”
In his contribution at the event, Oramah, who commended UBAfor developing the report, said it was uncommon in Africa to see a commercial bank invest in research and thought leadership on such a scale.
He added: “Africa’s issue is not an absolute lack of capital but fragmentation. Having resources that are inaccessible is like having food you cannot eat. The challenge is transforming capital into usable form — liquidity and investable instruments.
“AtAfreximbank, we recognised that forAfrica to develop, we needed to scale first — to build the size and strength to finance large projects. Efficiency comes later.
“Our focus has been to mobilise capital in African currencies, because reliance on foreign currency borrowing is a major source of Africa’s sovereign debt problem,” he said.
According to Oramah, the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) addresses this by allowing payments across borders in local currencies.
“Soon, we’ll extend this to capital markets. Under a pilot with the African Stock Exchange Association, investors will be able to buy shares across borders — for example, a Nigerian can purchase Egyptian stocks in naira, and vice versa.
“This will improve liquidity, integration, and convergence of monetary policies, deepening the African financial market,” he added.
Also speaking, the Minister of State, UzokaAnite, said the reforms initiated by the Bola Tinubu-led administration were already bearing fruits.
“Despite global and domestic challenges, Nigeria has implemented bold policies: removal of fuel subsidies, unification of exchange rates, and fiscal restructuring. These have already begun yielding results — economic stability, sustained growth over four quarters, and progress on disinflation.
“We are deepening reforms in the financial and energy sectors and strengthening capital markets to expand access for SMEs.
“Public-private partnerships will remain central to driving growth and mobilising private capital for national development,” she added.
In essence, the launch of UBA’s Whitepaper marks more than a policy intervention. It represents a rallying cry for African self-reliance and strategic collaboration. By aligning governments, development finance institutions, and the private sector around a unified growth vision, the initiative offers a pathway to transform Africa’s immense potential into tangible prosperity. If the recommendations outlined are embraced with urgency and commitment, the continent could finally turn the page from dependence to dominance.
Elemelu
Trials, Triumphs of Resilient Nigeria’s 10th Senate
eseme eyiboh
In the unfolding story of Nigeria’s democracy, the Senate remains one of its most enduring symbols of institutional resilience and national balance. Beyond the spectacle of debates and the colour of political persuasion, it is the grand arena where the destiny of the nation is shaped, refined, and defended through rules, order, and reason. It is the one chamber where passion must bow to procedure and where leadership must blend authority with decorum.
Under the current stewardship of Senator Godswill Akpabio,GCON, the Nigerian Senate has again shown that discipline is not the enemy of democracy but its lifeblood. In a political climate often prone to impulsive rhetoric and theatrical defiance, the Senate’s commitment to its Standing Orders has reaffirmed the solemn truth that democracy thrives only when its institutions are respected and its rules upheld.
At a time when political tempers can easily flare and institutional boundaries are tested, the Senate has chosen the steadier path of order. Its resilience is not borne out of the absence of conflict but from the maturity to resolve such tensions through due process. It is this adherence to procedure that transforms the Senate from a mere congregation of political actors into a citadel of constitutional governance. The 10th National Assembly has therefore become more than a legislature; it has risen to become the custodian of Nigeria’s democratic rhythm, ensuring that the music of governance remains in tune even when discordant notes arise.
Every functioning democracy stands or falls by the strength of its institutions. Rules are the unseen architecture that hold those institutions together, shaping not only how decisions are made but also how power is exercised and limited. The Nigerian Senate’s Standing Orders are not ceremonial relics from the past. They are the living constitution of the institution, carefully designed to preserve fairness, consistency, and the sanctity of the legislative process.
The discipline of parliamentary conduct is a universal marker of political civilisation. In the United Kingdom’s House of Commons, the authority of the Speaker is absolute and unchallenged, ensuring that debates proceed with respect and precision. No member, regardless of party or popularity, may openly defy the Speaker’s ruling without consequences. In Canada’s Parliament, even the fiercest partisans understand that procedure is sacred. Heated disagreements are channelled through decorum, not chaos. Similarly, in Australia, the Senate’s ability to hold the executive accountable depends not on the whims of politics but on the meticulous enforcement of rules that keep legislative integrity intact.
Without a doubt, Nigeria’s Senate belongs in that global fellowship of parliaments that recognise chaos as the heart of anarchy and order as the soul of democracy. Its insistence on upholding internal discipline and protecting the authority of its leadership is, therefore, neither personal nor punitive. It is institutional self-preservation. When the chamber asserts that it will not be held hostage by the disruptive instincts of any single member, it is affirming the primacy of collective responsibility over individual grandstanding. This is how strong legislatures endure: not by silencing dissent, but by ensuring that dissent respects the bounds of procedure.
In many ways, the Akpabio-led Senate has re-introduced a tone of seriousness into the conduct of legislative affairs. The presiding officer’s calm firmness, coupled with his inclusivity, has reminded both senators and citizens that freedom within order is the truest form of democracy. Leadership of this sort does not seek applause; it seeks stability. By upholding its Standing Orders, the Senate has reclaimed its moral authority and demonstrated that rules, properly enforced, are not
instruments of oppression but shields against institutional decay.
To judge a legislature by its distractions is easy, but to measure it by its legislative work is wiser. By that measure, the 10th Senate has already left an imprint that few in Nigeria’s democratic history can rival. In barely two years, the Senate has processed over 90 bills, with more than 50 receiving presidential assent. To be clear, these are solid, impactful achievements; they are substantive interventions in the nation’s economic, social, and security architecture.
Among them are landmark reforms such as the Nigeria Tax Administration Act and the Joint Revenue Board Act, which harmonise tax collection across the federal, state, and local governments, thereby reducing duplication and boosting fiscal efficiency. These laws lay the groundwork for a more coherent revenue system that can fund Nigeria’s development priorities sustainably. The Electricity Act (Amendment) has opened the power sector to decentralised innovation by placing generation and distribution within concurrent legislative jurisdiction, allowing states to take greater ownership of electrification drives.
Equally significant is the Student Loans (Access to Higher Education) Act, which has established the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, a mechanism designed to democratise access to tertiary education and build the nation’s human capital. Through this law, thousands of young Nigerians from modest backgrounds can now dream beyond financial constraints.
In matters of national security, the Senate has enacted the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons Act and reformed the Defence Industries Corporation to modernise local arms production and improve oversight. It has strengthened the Police Act and advanced the legal framework for community policing, ensuring that law enforcement is both professional and accountable. Social welfare has not been neglected either. The Senate’s approval of an increased national minimum wage reflects its sensitivity to the economic pressures faced by ordinary citizens.
Beyond these legislative milestones, the Senate has exercised its oversight powers with renewed vigour. Ministerial nominees have faced rigorous scrutiny, and budgetary processes have been more transparent than in previous sessions. Committee reports are now subjected to fuller debate, while public hearings are reclaiming their role as forums of accountability rather than ceremonial formality. This spirit of constructive collaboration with the executive, balanced by a firm assertion of institutional independence, has restored public confidence in the Senate’s purpose and performance.
Senator Akpabio’s leadership style has been pivotal in this transformation. Combining political experience with procedural discipline, he has stabilised the chamber and inspired cooperation across party lines. The result is a Senate that legislates with urgency but without recklessness, that debates with passion but within the boundaries of respect. It is a model of legislative management that other emerging democracies might do well to emulate.
In any democracy, the question is never whether there will be dissent. Instead, it is always about how it will be handled. The real measure of a democratic institution is how it handles internal turbulence. The 10th Senate has faced its fair share of provocations and personality clashes, yet it has consistently chosen the path of principle over populism. When it insists that rules must be followed and that leadership must be respected, it is not acting out of pride but out of duty. Every time the Senate enforces its Standing Orders, it sends a message that Nigeria’s democracy is strong enough to discipline itself.
In the world’s most respected parliaments, members who flout rules face swift consequences. In the British House of Commons, suspension or expulsion is not rare when a
member’s behaviour undermines parliamentary dignity. In Canada, contempt of Parliament remains one of the gravest offences, warranting public apology or even exclusion. Nigeria’s Senate has every right to apply similar standards, for to allow disorder in the name of political freedom is to invite the slow death of the institution itself.
There is a reason democracies that survive for centuries place such premium on decorum. Discipline is the invisible thread that connects authority to accountability. A Senator who disregards procedure may think he is exercising personal liberty, but in truth, he is unravelling the very order that gives that liberty meaning. The Senate, as the upper chamber of Nigeria’s legislature, bears the burden of showing restraint even when provoked and firmness even when misunderstood.
Under Akpabio’s guidance, that balance has largely been achieved. His steady hand has preserved the Senate’s institutional dignity while ensuring that disagreements, inevitable in a plural polity, never degenerate into institutional disrespect. His colleagues, through their support, have shown that the Senate’s unity is not fragile but founded on shared commitment to the republic’s greater good. This collective resilience is what distinguishes a mature legislature from a mere gathering of political actors.
As democracy worldwide faces disillusionment, with parliaments in many countries besieged by populist anger and public cynicism, Nigeria’s Senate stands out as a stabilising force. Its insistence on rule-based conduct, its robust legislative output, and its respect for leadership all reinforce the idea that democratic governance is not sustained by emotion but by discipline. In times of uncertainty, Nigerians can look to their Senate as a beacon of institutional steadiness, where procedure triumphs over impulse and order over anarchy.
Eyiboh, Special Adviser on Media/Publicity and official Spokesperson to the President of the Senate, writes from Abuja
Mary Dinah Foundation’s Drive for Healthier Africa
The Mary Dinah Foundation (MDF) was recently featured in Forbes Africa’s latest issue on sustainable philanthropy. Founded in 2005, the Foundation has worked where the needs are greatest, that is, in communities affected by conflict, climate shocks, and economic fragility.
Its ‘Zero Hunger’ Programme, originally implemented in partnership with USAID, now supported by the United States government, has delivered over 55 million meals across North-east Nigeria, far North Cameroon, Chad’s Lac Province, and the borders of Sudan. Through this initiative, thousands of mothers have been linked to antenatal care, while children have received lifesaving vaccinations.
Over the past two decades, the Foundation says it has operated at the intersection of nutrition, health, and empowerment, demonstrating that local leadership and innovation can drive large-scale impact. Mental health and empowerment initiatives such as ‘Mother and Girls Voices’ have reached more than 351,000 women across 83 rural communities in Africa, increasing breastfeeding and antenatal attendance rates and promoting safer deliveries.
This locally embedded, data-driven model described in Forbes Africa as the Mary Dinah model, combines urgency with sustainability. It leverages community partnerships, aligns with national health strategies, and measures progress through rigorous health and nutrition indicators.
In 2025, the Foundation launched the Maternal and Newborn Fund (MNF) to transform maternal and newborn health in low- and
middle-income countries. Through its flagship programme, Birth Strong, the Fund intends to provide multiple micronutrient supplements (MMS) to five million women by 2030, improving maternal outcomes and strengthening national health systems. The Fund also represents
a paradigm shift in African philanthropy — blending capital investment, local delivery systems, and policy reform to build lasting resilience.
Local production hubs will strengthen national supply chains, reduce costs, and create employment opportunities, while data systems will enable real-time monitoring of impact.
The organisation’s Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Mary Dinah, is the visionary behind the Foundation’s mission.
A global hotelier turned philanthropist, she has redefined how humanitarian work can scale with purpose, stating: “Lasting change is never delivered — it’s discovered within communities empowered to lead. Our role is to trust, equip, and step back so their systems can endure.”
The Forbes Africa issue also features global partners such as UNICEF’s Child Nutrition Fund, the World Food Programme (WFP), the African Development Bank (AfDB), Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), the Association Mondiale des Amis de l’Enfance (AMADE) — founded by Princess Grace of Monaco and under the patronage of the Prince’s Palace of Monaco — and Edesia Nutrition. Each organisation, like the Mary Dinah Foundation, is driving innovation in nutrition and sustainable development across Africa.
Together, these stories reflect a broader movement to reshape philanthropy from emergency relief to long-term sustainability — focused on prevention, dignity, and opportunity to build the future of health and resilience across the continent.
Akpabio
Adichie
Kasim Sumaina
Jottings from Road Trip With Sunday Karimi
tunde Olusunle
Ireceived an invite sometime last month, from Sunday Steve Karimi, Senator representing Kogi West Senatorial Zone, to be his guest for a weekend in his hometown, Egbe, in Yagba West council area.
His community was hosting the 2025 edition of the annual Egbe Mekun Day Celebrations. It would feature the commissioning of the modern palace built for the foremost traditional ruler of the community.
For me, the invite from the Senator representing me was an honour. It was a potential opportunity to visit my part of Kogi State for the first time in two years. My last visit home was during the off-cycle governorship election of November 2023, where the votes “delivered” by former Governor Yahaya Bello’s Okene council area, torpedoed the aggregate votes polled by nine local government areas in Kogi East senatorial zone! Recall Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s lines about “government magic,” where “they turn blue into green.”
For the journalist in me, it should also be a good opportunity to personally see some of the projects Karimi had been able to execute for the betterment of we his constituents since we voted him in.
For those unfamiliar with Nigeria’s geopolitics, Kogi West begins immediately after Abaji, the last southern community in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). It starts in Chikara and stretches 270 kilometres to Egbe at the border of Kogi with Kwara State. Arguably, Kogi West is larger in landmass than Ebonyi and most probably Ekiti states. It encompasses seven local government areas namely: Kotonkarfe and Lokoja, which constitute a federal constituency; Kabba-Bunu and Ijumu, which also constitute a second federal constituency, as well as Mopamuro, Yagba East and Yagba West, which make up Yagba federal constituency. They can all be encountered on a linear drive on the AbujaLokoja-Kabba-Isanlu-Egbe-Ilorin highway. This mammoth mass of land and people is the area of parliamentary jurisdiction for Senator Sunday Karimi.
The strident advocacy of the people of Kogi West in general, and Okunland in particular, for an economically viable state of their own on account of the sheer geographical size; sociocultural compatibility, multiplicity of natural resources, abundance of multidisciplinary human capital, and ample population of the zone may be justifiable after all. As we speak, Kogi West is host to two huge, functioning cement installations, while a third is in the works. Multibillion-naira agricultural investments are also sprouting in parts of the infinite hectarage. Such is the preponderance of natural endowments in the rocks, rivers, and soils of Kogi West.
The 201-kilometre Abuja to Lokoja road, which used to be a pleasurable two-hour ride, has become a more than three-hour drudgery. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo flagged off the dualisation of the road in 2006 to underscore its place as a gateway between the country’s North and South. Four Presidents after him, the road ranks as the longest ever under construction, with seeming constant motion by construction companies, and non-discernible movement and progress. Aside yet-to-be scraped, graded, or asphalted sections of the road, the obnoxious Lokoja International Market, which sits right on the expressway at the detour into the Kogi State capital, inflicting avoidable pain and stealing valuable man-hours from commuters, worries Karimi to no end. As Governor between 2003 to 2012, Ibrahim Idris thought he had scored a bullseye with his concept of a “legacy” project. Sadly, none of his successors has been able to muster the political will to address what has become a national highway nuisance. All it requires is relocation to a less obtrusive site.
The drive, from the point where commuters turn off the Lokoja-Okene highway, through Apata to Obajana and onwards to Kabba, is much more motorable. The 64-kilometre, single-lane concrete road was built by the multibillionaire proprietor of the Obajana-Dangote Cement Complex, Aliko Dangote. Indiscriminate parking by freight trucks and round-the-clock operations in the complex, have, however, completely narrowed the road, posing palpable risks, making a comprehensive redesign of the road most compelling. It simply has to be dualised and provided with flyovers to ease traffic between the South West and the North, and vice versa. Obajana, the host community of what is generally described as the “largest cement factory in Africa,” equally needs an urgent makeover. Poverty and squalor are indisguisedly plastered on the visage of the shanty town and its slum environs.
When the Kabba-Isanlu-Egbe road was at its passable best several years ago, the 97-kilometre stretch was a tasty one-hour drive. Sadly, ageing through times and relentless pressure on the asphalt road has made it one of the very worst in Nigeria. Karimi is most concerned about the unspeakably decrepit condition of the road and is adopting a multipronged approach to ensure the rehabilitation of the road in the short term, and its reconceptualisation in the long term. He has held bouts of meetings with the Works Minister, Dave Umahi and the owners of the Mangal Cement Complex which recently setup shop at Iluhagba-Gbedde in Ijumu council area. In the face of scant resources to be stretched across all of government’s commitments, answers have not been quick in coming. But Karimi is not giving up.
On account of a few breakdowns in the convoy of cars in which we travelled, we drove a few hours in dark night, especially between Aiyetoro-Gbedde in Ijumu and Egbe in Yagba West. At Idofin-Isanlu in Yagba East, we encountered a seemingly endless herd of cattle which dominated the entire breadth of the road. You sensed a triumphalist haughtiness about the attitude of the Fulani herders whose kith have been fingered in recent horrendous attacks on the people of Kogi West, with the way they sat pretty on one of Nigeria’s most important roads, true “kings of the road,” for that moment. Sadly instructively, there were no vehicles from the Kwara State side of the road. This further attested to the mortal scare which has been driven deep into constituents of contiguous communities in Kwara and Kogi. Indeed, socioeconomic activities have been summarily paralysed in those parts.
Despite the evening torrents and the drenched earth, Senator
A section of the Kabba-Isanlu-Egbe-Ilorin road
Another section of the Kabba-Isanlu-Egbe-Ilorin road
Karimi’s admirers waited in large numbers to receive him into his home local government, at the Odo-Eri approach. They rode excitedly with him through gaping gullies, concrete bumps and dampening drizzles all the way to his country home in Egbe. They joined a detachment of supporters which had gone ahead. Despite soaking in the affection of his admirers, Karimi was cognisant of his famished guests who undertook the grueling nine-hour trip with him, as well as the needs of his followers. He headed to his kitchen to rally the “troops” to the “rhythm of the mortar,” the culinary staple in Okunland. He graciously ceded his seat at the dining place to me, prioritising the comfort of his guests. I took due note of such uncommon humility.
Sunday Karimi is your archetypal homeboy. He’s out of bed early next morning, dressed in shorts and sneakers, visiting royals, family, and friends, while also keeping a keen eye on preparations for the Egbe Mekun Day. Security concerns had fuelled suggestions for the postponement of the event. Karimi thought that was the best way to demonstrate to faceless belligerents that the people had succumbed to the terrorist machinations of marauders. The programme had to be prosecuted. I insisted on an inspection visit to the Computer-Based Test, (CBT) Centre which he substantially funded, established in his alma mater, the famous Titcombe College, Egbe. I equally wanted to see the Forward Operating Base, (FOB), which he built at the southern end of Egbe, to help stem insecurity in the area, operated by the Nigerian Army.
His friends believe he’s too reticent, too self-effacing about his multifarious endeavours in sectors such as education, water supply, empowerment, healthcare, infrastructure, security, philanthropy among others, in a polity where noise makers and propagandists steal the flutes of others. They therefore commissioned a television documentary titled: Senator Sunday Steve Karimi: A Legacy of Service and Impact in Kogi West, aggregating his very impressive achievements. With him, we sat through a preview of the well-produced documentary in his living room, offering constructive critiques in a few places. We unanimously approved it for airing on select national television stations in the coming weeks. That he has the patience and presence of
mind to sit through such an intellectual and professional exercise, struck me positively.
In the jealous and intricate politics between Egbe which is politically delineated as “town council” because of its relative urbanity, and the rest of Yagba West known as “area council,” Karimi is playing deft and pragmatic politics. On the eve of the Egbe Mekun celebrations, he drove at night with his entourage to Odo-Ere, headquarters of the local government area, to interact with his loyalists at a meeting facilitated by Oluseyi Omotoso, an Abuja-based entrepreneur and one of his diehards. We retired to The Royal Choice Hotel a most visionary investment in the hospitality industry in our parts and were generously hosted by Faramade Oniya, a Port Harcourt-based professional, younger friend and close ally of Senator Karimi. Karimi danced without a care among his friends and constituents, ever updating his preferred playlist with the adhoc deejay that night. Senator Karimi diplomatically declined to enter into discussions about the politics of 2027 against the canvas that it is too early. His primary objective is to continue to work for his people within the context of his subsisting mandate, and for the reelection of President Bola Tinubu. Despite his unassumingness on the subject, however, it was clear to me from my readings on this recent visit that Karimi’s return to the Senate come 2027, is a fait accompli. It has been collectively signed, sealed and delivered by the people of Kogi West. Like Femi Saidu, a community leader said in Yagba at the Odo-Ere meeting, “that man has not been born of a woman, who would dare say that Yagba federal constituency will not serve out a minimum two terms in the Senate. Not when Ijumu local government area alone, in Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu federal constituency, solely retained the office for 16 good years, destroying what was supposed to be a two-term per federal constituency gentleman’s rotational arrangement between the three federal constituencies in Kogi West.” It was as eye-opening as it was an eventful trip for me in my multiplicity of roles as a writer and community development enthusiast. The “starter’s gun” for 2027 has been fired even at the grassroots, beyond the noise and shufflings in high places. Interesting times lie ahead.
Olusunle,PhD,FellowoftheAssociation of Nigerian Authors, (FANA), is an Adjunct Professor of Creative Writing at the University of Abuja
Jim Ovia as Doyen of Nigerian Banking Industry
The recognition of the Founder of Zenith Bank Plc, Jim Ovia as the ‘Doyen of the Nigerian Banking Industry’ by the Nigerian Exchange is a fitting tribute to a visionary leader whose innovation, discipline, and foresight helped redefine modern banking in Nigeria, writes Omolabake Fasogbon
Zenith Bank Plc’s Founder and Chairman, Dr. Jim Ovia, CFR, accompanied by the bank’s Group Managing Director/ CEO, Dame Dr.Adaora Umeoji, OON, on Tuesday, carried out the prestigious closing gong ceremony at the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), marking a significant milestone in the bank’s continued partnership with the capital market and the official closing of the trading day.
The ceremony highlighted Zenith Bank’s strong relationship with the NGX and its commitment to transparency, accountability, and bolstering investor confidence.
Indeed, few names command as much respect in Nigeria’s financial ecosystem as Ovia. Over the past three decades, he has not only helped redefine the contours of modern banking in Nigeria but has also become a symbol of visionary leadership, discipline, and innovation.
His recognition as the ‘Doyen of the Nigerian Banking Industry’ by the NGX was therefore, more than a ceremonial honour, it is an affirmation of a lifetime of excellence and enduring impact.
From the early 1990s, when Nigeria’s banking landscape was largely unstable and poorly structured, Ovia’s emergence introduced a new standard of professionalism and corporate governance.
Through Zenith Bank, he built one of the continent’s most successful financial institutions, anchored on technology, integrity, and customer-centric service. His model not only transformed banking operations but also influenced industry-wide reforms that pushed Nigerian banks toward global competitiveness.
What makes Ovia’s journey remarkable is his consistent ability to blend vision with execution. He understood early on that the future of banking would depend on innovation, efficiency, and trust, which have become the hallmarks of Zenith Bank.
His strategic foresight in adopting digital solutions long before the fintech revolution positioned his institution as a market leader and inspired a new generation of bankers and entrepreneurs.
Ovia’s story underscores the transformative power of leadership rooted in clarity, integrity, and purpose. It is a reminder that greatness in banking, as in life, is built not by chance but by consistency and vision.
While speaking at the NGX, Umeoji expressed her delight in participating in the closing gong ceremony, acknowledging the NGX’s visionary leadership and innovative initiatives.
“We are delighted to be here today to perform the closing gong ceremony – a symbol of shared progress and enduring partnership,” Umeoji said.
“The NGX’s leadership has been very creative and innovative, and their electronic trading platform – X-stream played a pivotal role in the success of our recapitalization exercise, which achieved a 160% subscription.
“The bank’s stock price has doubled since the recapitalisation exercise, from N36.50 per share to N68. Zenith Bank has also reported impressive financial results for the Half Year (H1) of 2025, becoming the most profitable bank in Nigeria and paying the highest dividend in the industry for the half year.”
“We are committed to creating value for our stakeholders and will continue to partner with the NGX to boost the Nigerian economy,” Umeoji added.
“Our expansion strategy is focused on following our customers’ businesses and ensuring that we go to countries and economies where we can scale and provide more returns for our shareholders.”
She stressed that the bank plans to make good on its promise of being investors’ delight by paying quantum dividends to its shareholders by year end.
According to her, “For us in Zenith, we are looking forward to paying more based on the confidence the market reposed on us. We are working assiduously to ensure that we do
not disappoint the Market. We are going to continue to be the investors’ delight, and we assure the market that we would continue to pay enhanced dividends come end of the year.”
Also commenting, the Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama, emphasised the role of the NGX in creating value in the Nigerian economic space. He said, “I want to thank you all for making the market what it is. Without you, the market wouldn’t have seen the leap that it has achieved in the last one-and-half year.
“I spoke earlier that at my assumption of office, market capitalisation stood at N55 trillion, today it is hovering around N89 trillion and N93 trillion.
“That was not done by a spirit, it was done by you. Your ability, tenacity, courage, vision and transparency have moved the market where it is. Our vision is that by next year, we will have the market at N200 trillion.”
The Doyen of the NGX,Alhaji Rasheed Yusuf, while giving his remarks, lauded Ovia, for his vision and leadership. He ended by referring to him as the “Doyen of the Commercial banking sector”.
Zenith Bank remains committed to creating long-term value for its stakeholders while driving economic development in Nigeria. As the bank continues on its growth trajectory, it has its sights set on global expansion. The bank intends to strategically leverage the capital raised from the Market to enhance its scalability and deliver enhanced services to its valued customers.
Sharing insights on how he has over the years ensured that in the pursuit of expansion, Zenith Bank maintains its brand quality, even when he retires, Ovia had said: “This is one of my favorite questions and I have been asked this severally. There is the 100 Club, which is all about companies and institutions that have lasted 100 years and beyond. My inspiration
is that if those organisations had been built 100 years ago and are still in business, then we should be able to do that.
“So, succession planning is very important. Who takes over from who is very important. Many assume I am still there, was when I retired. But some assume Jim Ovia is still there. But succeeding CEOs have always continued to run the institution even better than the way I did when I was a CEO.
“Definitely, the brand would continue to be maintained and the reputation of the institution would continue to be maintained, whether I am there or not.”
Unlike some operators in the commercial banking space, Ovia does not see fintechs as challenge to traditional banks. For him, he sees them as being collaborative.
“We need the fintechs to do certain services that banks would not ordinarily be able to do. Definitely, we need the fintechs. They are smaller, they are more nimble and they have the technology. The fintechs also cannot possibly survive without the banks in terms of some retail transactions. So, it is a collaborative effort. We don’t see it as being destructive, we see it as being creative and innovative to our retail business and at the end of the day, all the funding and liquidity are going to end up in the banks,” he added.
Commenting on his personal template or methodology that an organisation can adopt to build a reputable brand leveraging innovation, the founder of Zenith Bank said: “Firstly, you must have integrity. Integrity is defined as your word is your bond. Integrity is that you must respect corporate governance, you must respect the rule of law, and you must respect and honour contracts. Even though when the contracts were drafted, you suddenly realised that it did not favour you anymore and that you are going to lose money, but it is a contract, and so you must honour it. That is integrity.
That is what we do at Zenith Bank and that is
what we think people should do.”
Over the past 35 years, the bank has consistently redefined the standards of service delivery, corporate governance, and digital banking in Nigeria’s ever-evolving financial landscape.
Zenith Bank’s strategic investments in digital infrastructure, customer-centric services, and prudent risk management have not only propelled it to the top of the industry. but also helped reshape how Nigerians interact with banking. As one of the earliest adopters of techled banking solutions, Zenith Bank became a trailblazer long before fintechs became the norm.
Zenith Bank blazes the trail in digital banking in Nigeria; scoring several firsts in the deployment of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure to create innovative products that meet the needs of its teeming customers.
Driven by a culture of excellence and strict adherence to global best practices, the Bank has combined vision, skillful banking expertise, and cutting-edge technology to create products and services that anticipate and meet customers’ expectations; enable businesses to thrive and grow wealth for customers.
With a team of dedicated professionals, the bank leverages its robust Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure to provide cutting-edge solutions and products through its network of branches and electronic/ digital channels.
In addition, Zenith Bank has played a pivotal role in financing critical sectors of the Nigerian economy, understanding that sustainable economic growth requires targeted support for industries that drive development. The bank has consistently provided substantial credit facilities to key sectors including manufacturing, agriculture, oil and gas, telecommunications, and infrastructure development.
For ten consecutive years, Zenith Bank has organised its annual non-oil sector seminar, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda. This forum brings together policymakers, business leaders, and industry experts to discuss strategies for reducing Nigeria’s dependence on oil revenues and developing alternative sources of economic growth.
The bank’s lending strategy goes beyond traditional commercial considerations to support sectors that create jobs, generate foreign exchange, and contribute to Nigeria’s economic diversification. Through structured financing arrangements, trade finance facilities, and working capital support, Zenith has enabled countless businesses to expand operations, modernise equipment, and increase their contribution to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
The bank’s track record of excellent performance has continued to earn the brand numerous awards at home and all over the world, including ‘Bank of the Year 2024’ by THISDAY Newspaper.
Clearly, Ovia’s story is ultimately one of vision, perseverance, and purposeful leadership. His rise from modest beginnings to becoming a central figure in Nigeria’s financial landscape reflects a rare blend of intellect, foresight, and integrity.
By building Zenith Bank into a symbol of excellence and corporate discipline, Ovia not only transformed a single institution but also elevated the standards of the entire Nigerian banking industry. His influence extends beyond balance sheets and boardrooms. It is seen in the culture of professionalism, innovation, and transparency that he helped entrench in the sector.
The NGX honour also celebrates a legacy of achievement that continues to inspire the next generation of bankers and entrepreneurs, while also challenging industry leaders to sustain the values that defined Ovia’s journey, which is that of vision, resilience, and a deep commitment to nation-building through finance. In honouring Ovia, Nigeria celebrates more than a man; it celebrates the enduring power of leadership that builds institutions and transforms economies.
Ovia
Karl Hala: Organisers Now Have Confidence to Host International Events in Abuja
The Group General Manager of the Continental Hotels, Karl Hala, speaks about how the hotel is promoting tourism in Nigeria. Charles Ajunwa brings excerpts
World Tourism Day was observed recently, can you tell us how Continental Hotels have impacted the tourism ecosystem in Nigeria?
Today, we are considered as the brand leader in Nigeria with the largest number of rooms in Abuja and Lagos. Going back over the last couple of years, we have scooped the recognition from our Nigerian institutions as being the leading brand and having the leading teams.
It involves a lot of people management, motivation, inspiration, guest satisfaction, service delivery. We have not only promoted the brand, but we have told a national story of transition and transformation. Abuja is evolving at a very remarkable pace. We just introduced our new Tower 2, Wing A deluxe rooms. It’s a step above our superior rooms and space. The balconies have been transitioned into space because working space is essential. Also, we upgraded the amenities, and the looks and feel have become more contemporary with the Nigerian touch. Our Convention Centre in Abuja, the Ladi Kwali, which we transitioned last September with new features within the lobby areas being marbled out, all the carpeting within all the convention rooms, air conditioning, walls, and so forth. Now, we’ve added partitioning and soundproofing. We successfully hosted the Bill Gates events here. With our upgraded facilities, organisers now have the trust and confidence to host international events in Abuja. It’s a big beginning, because we want to compete on the international platform. Not just locally, but we go internationally. It’s essential to go and actually present ourselves
against unnamed competitors of other countries.
At both Abuja and Lagos, we are welcoming personalities of global stature. From the Mayor of London, to Bill Gates, to our own Kamaru Usman and others. All chose Continental Hotels as their home in Nigeria.
But more importantly, I believe it’s the validation of both cities to be internationally recognised hubs. As you know, we have a commitment to excellence. We want to improve this service excellence, product excellence where we go, and others as well. So we have recruited new training managers in Abuja. Their primary task is to reinforce service culture and communication. The service culture of us being there is sort of distracted by whatever happens around. We need a level of this understanding that starts from the top because the waiters will always do wherever they’ve been told to. But the top has to understand how we approach the different service expectations from our clients. On the tech side, we are partnering with a top international tech company. We are deploying Wi-Fi 7.
That means you are connected to the cloud. Coming to our academy, it is moving forward. We now have reached a level that we can open in second quarter 2026. We are working with the Ministries of Labour and Education in this regard. I just saw the two ministers together with IOM officials, United Nations. They are there to see where and what the capacity is.
Bring us up to speed on the renovations in Abuja, and when you hope to finish? What’s your vision?
The vision and objectivity is to set the landmark for Abuja. So that goes from the actual planning
of the concept. How our clients sleep, how they contact businesses and how we can work the basics of the services, bars, outlets, and the relaxation as well. We play with 14 hectares and 600 rooms built into three towers. Tower 3 is now closed. We shall finish the redesign and the transformation of our first bulb of rooms in about 18 to 20 months. Whilst we have that working, we could not wait in Tower 2 because the superior rooms are there, but they do need an uplift. So we decided to uplift them as well into a new category that is deluxe. We just finished the first 100 rooms. It’s enlarged rooms with better tech, better amenities, better decor around. And the second part in Wing B is just starting now. By January or February 2026, we should have 200 deluxe, 100 premium and 100 standard rooms. The last 200 are in the making. In the meantime, we have already finalised the new gym which is high-tech. This is the technical gym. This is top of the line. That’s the latest work that comes through. We have all the recreation facilities from physical - Spa, wellness and recreation. Restaurants and bars are in the planning. The first one we’re going to do is the pool bar within the first quarter of next year. Landscaping is ongoing and you might see the impact. It’s cool. We have a second entrance, which we’re almost finished now. The main entrance to Tower 3, which we’re already going to use to go to the other areas. So, we also ease connectivity within the hotel and from the outside. In terms of security, we just installed another 140 CCTV cameras protecting all areas. All these are giving confidence to our clientele and institutions as we get more local and international visits. Internationally speaking,
as you know, risk is very high on the agenda. So, safety has to be as well.
Can you elaborate on some artisan businesses you are giving support to?
I listen around a lot. Somebody I know has got the tilapia farm, another one a goat farm and the organic farm where palm oil is coming from. But I know there’s a lot happening. To be honest, we also look at exports, because of the money. So, we want to jump into that and make sure that we get this export quality partially to remain with us.
What are you looking at in terms of patronage?
You know we don’t give numbers.
But it’s not about numbers.
We are changing the playing field because of the high demand we have experienced over the last couple of years, we are now turning into improving the level of services and accessibility because that’s what Nigeria is all about. And because of who we are here, there’s been a landmark since 2013, when it opened, and now, we want to take it to the next step. So, the patronage is good. Now we want to make it great.
Nigeria, Qatar Set to Sign MoU on Cultural, Tourism Cooperation
The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, said Nigeria has resumed talks with the Qatari government to boost cultural exchange, arts, and tourism relations between the two countries.
Musawa, who held a meeting in Abuja with the Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Nigeria, H.E. Dr Ali Ghamen Al-Hajri, highlighted Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and potential partnerships with Qatar to promote mutual understanding and growth.
She emphasised Nigeria’s diverse cultural history, showcasing its music, movie industry, and arts, and expressed interest in collaborating with Qatar to preserve and display Nigerian artefacts.
“Our relationship with the Gulf is important but not complete without Qatar. We have shared alignments with the Fulani, Hausas, and Kanuris in Qatar.
“We generate content through music, the movie industry, and the arts. We have been very active in recovering most of our artefacts, like the Benin bronzes, and we want to work with Qatar to preserve and display our artefacts. We also look forward to having a memorandum of understanding on how our culture, music and active tourism partnerships can benefit both countries,” Musawa added.
Earlier, the Qatari Ambassador, Al-Hajri stressed Qatar’s commitment to promoting art and cultural projects, emphasising its role in diplomacy and bridging nations.
The ambassador noted that both countries have significantly strengthened their economic ties in recent years through diplomatic engagement, to advance bilateral cooperation across several sectors including aviation, oil and gas, mining, infrastructure, and agriculture.
“Qatar is committed to collaborating with Nigeria to promote culture, increase tourism, and create mutually beneficial partnerships. The
potential of Nigeria’s creative industry and its global influence is widespread.
“It will be mutually beneficial to officially document this conversation in an MoU, to boost Nigeria’s cultural richness, international collaborations, and the potential for growth in the creative industry and tourism sector including cultural events, art exhibitions, and exchange programs,” Al-Hajri said.
The meeting reflects a broader trend of cultural diplomacy, where Nigeria and Qatar leverage art and culture to foster international relations and cooperation. Both countries aim to boost cultural exchange, tourism, and economic growth through potential collaborations, including cultural events, art exhibitions, and exchange programs.
The signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalise the partnership was discussed, with both parties expressing enthusiasm for the potential benefits of the collaboration.
New NTDA DG, Awakan Assumes Office, Vows to Promote Tourism
Charles Ajunwa
The newly appointed Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Mr. Olayiwola Awakan, has pledged to usher in a new era of innovation, collaboration, and renewed commitment towards repositioning Nigeria’s tourism industry.
Awakan, who made the pledge when he assumed office in Abuja, expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him to drive the Renewed Hope Agenda through tourism.
“I’m happy to be here; this is a new dawn. There’s a lot to be done and by the grace of God, it will be done.
“Let me start by appreciating the President of Nigeria, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to drive the Renewed Hope
Agenda through tourism.”
Awakan also acknowledged the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, for her visionary leadership and tireless efforts in repositioning the sector despite limited resources.
“The responsibility bestowed on her is weighty, and even with the limited resources, she has been able to push ahead. I am here to complement her efforts,” he noted.
He commended the achievements of his predecessors, pledging to consolidate on their successes and build a more vibrant, efficient, and responsive NTDA capable of attracting tourists and investors to Nigeria.
“My predecessors have done excellently well to the best of their ability, and the baton of leadership has been passed to me. I will take it up from here,” Awakan said.
Awakan also emphasised the importance of teamwork, innovation, and inclusivity in achieving the Authority’s mandate.
“We need newness, freshness, and I can’t do it alone. We need collaborative effort.
“I operate an open-door policy, no idea is a bad idea; it can be refined into a fantastic one. Let’s make history together and make Mr. President proud.”
The NTDA boss was received by the Management Team of the Authority, led by Mr. Ovie Esewhaye, the Director overseeing the Office of the Director General, who presented the official handover note. The new helmsman thereafter met with the Directors, toured the NTDA offices, and addressed the general staff at the NTDA Village Hall.
Awakan is an award-winning journalist, thespian, dramatist, poet, and culture and tourism enthusiast. His appointment reflects President Tinubu’s continued commitment to leveraging creativity, culture, and tourism as key drivers of national economic diversification and growth.
Hala
Charles Ajunwa
L-r: Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Nigeria, H.e. Dr Ali Ghamen Al-Hajri and Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa
polITY
Osaro Onaiwu: The Networker Who Unites His People
Al Humphrey Onyanabo
In a world where politics often divides rather than unites, one man has chosen a different path: to bring his people together, to heal old wounds, and to remind them of their shared pride and heritage.
His name is Earl Osaro Onaiwu, a name that resonates deeply in Nigeria’s political and cultural circles. Known as the King of Networking, Osaro’s story is one of quiet service, strategic influence, and an unshakable commitment to the Benin Kingdom.
A Legacy of Service and Connection
Over the years, Osaro Onaiwu has played several defining roles in Nigeria’s political space — mostly away from the spotlight but never away from impact. He was one-time Director General of the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF), where he helped build bridges among Nigeria’s most powerful state leaders. Later, he became the founding Director General of the PDP Governors Forum, where his deft coordination, discretion, and human touch made him a respected ally across party lines.
Through these platforms, he has built relationships with almost every governor — past and present — in Nigeria.
“My strength has always been in building bridges,” he often says with a knowing smile. “Nigeria is too big for division. Unity is not just a slogan for me — it’s a way of life.”
A source told this reporter, “In the last 40 years, there is no head of state or President of Nigeria that Osaro Onaiwu does not have a personal relationship with.”
Birth of the Benin Summit Group
Weeks ago, he turned that philosophy homeward with the birth of the Benin Summit Group (BSG) — a platform devoted to fostering unity, cultural renewal, and community development among the Benin people.
In less than a month, the growth of the BSG has been nothing short of phenomenal. Its first major outing — the Benin Unity Summit held on September 26, 2025 — drew an impressive crowd of leaders across political lines, cultural custodians, traditional chiefs, and professionals from across the world.
“The success of that summit showed that our people are ready,” Onaiwu said afterwards. “Ready to heal, ready to grow, ready to reclaim our collective greatness.”
But even in celebration, he remains mindful of the work ahead. “This is only the beginning,” he says. “Our unity must not end in speeches — it must reflect in what we build together.”
Committees with Purpose
To turn vision into tangible outcomes, the Benin Summit Group has established several development-focused commit- tees: Creative Arts & Culture, Sports Development, Widow’s committee, Humanitarian & Welfare, Drug Abuse and Community Development Project.
Each committee is led by competent sons and daughters of the Benin Kingdom, tasked with the mission of turning every worthy Benin citizen homeward — to contribute to the development of their ancestral land.
“Our goal,” he explains, “is to make every Benin son and daughter see the Kingdom as their first responsibility. Wherever you are in the world, you are part of Benin’s story.” He adds, “There are other Benin group but this is the first time a group brought the Benins together in the past 50 years.”
A Proud Benin Son
Wherever he goes — Lagos, Abuja, Dubai, or New York — Osaro wears his identity like a crown. His traditional Benin beads and flowing attire are his signature. “I am a proud Benin man,” he declares without hesitation. “Our history is rich, our culture is deep, and our duty is to preserve and promote it.” For him, the Benin story is not just history — it’s a living legacy that must be modernized and passed on.
The Master Networker
Few Nigerians have Osaro Onaiwu’s reach. His network cuts across the north, south, east, and west — from politi- cians and business magnates to cultural icons and global partners. His relationships are not transactional; they are built on integrity, loyalty, and trust.
“Relationships are like investments,” he says. “If you nurture them with honesty and respect, they’ll yield dividends for life.”
And now, he is bringing that same network home — us- ing his influence and connections to bridge divides among his people. “Politics has divided us long enough,” he notes. “Now it’s time to build a new conversation — one about culture, heritage, and shared destiny.”
The Strategist and Entrepreneur
Beyond politics, Osaro is a man of many talents. A seasoned entrepreneur, publisher, and media strategist, he has published several special-interest magazines and served as image consultant to high-net-worth individuals and corporations.
When crises strike, it’s often Osaro the fixer that the powerful turn to. “My job is to see through the noise,” he says. “Every bad story can be turned into a good outcome with truth, clarity, and strategy.”
His business interests span logistics, fashion merchandis- ing, manufacturing, and VIP protocol services. Yet, beneath the corporate polish lies a heart that beats for community and culture.
Guarding the Spirit of the BSG
Despite his political pedigree, Osaro remains firm that the Benin Summit Group must remain non-political and non-religious.
“I will resist any attempt to turn this noble vision into a political tool,” he insists. “The BSG belongs to all Benin people, not to any party or personality.”
He has made it clear that the Group’s focus will stay on peace, unity, and progress — principles he believes are the foundation of the Kingdom’s future.
The Man Beyond the Public
Away from the conferences and cameras, Osaro is a family man and grandfather. He speaks fondly of his radiant wife, Joy, his companion of over four decades. “We married young,” he recalls with a grin, “I was just 21. We’ve grown together, faced life together, and our bond keeps getting stronger.”
One Vision, One Voice, One Benin
For Osaro Onaiwu, the Benin Summit Group is more than a platform — it’s a movement of identity and hope.
“Someday,” he says, “when our children look back, they’ll say that this was when we began to rebuild the house of Benin. That’s my dream — a united, prosperous Benin that speaks with one voice.”
What many do not know is that Osaro’s desire to unite the Bini people did not start overnight. As far back as 1998 at the Sheraton hotel, Ikeja, he organised a landmark Bini Summit where the respected Ishekure of Benin Kingdom, Chief Nosa Ishekure delivered the keynote address. Two prominent Benin sons, Comrade Orobosa Omo Ojo, media guru and Prince Eghatise Eradiawa were also instrumental to putting together the Lagos Summit.
And as the drums of unity beat louder across the land, one thing is certain: Earl Osaro Onaiwu has taken his place not just as a bridge-builder for Nigeria, but as a true son of Benin determined to keep the flame of his kingdom burning bright.
cross section of Dangote Sugar refinery Plc staff in their cultural attires at the 2025 customer Service Week and Dangote Ports city Festival Grand Finale held at Apapa, Lagos …recently
L-r:consultant to the book Project, Mr. Sola Ojewusi; General editor of the boom Leadership chronicles, Prof. Hope eghagha; Managing Director/ceO, University of Lagos consult Services Ltd. Prof. John Lekan Oyefara; and Senior business Manager, University of Lagos consult Srvices Ltd. Mr. Segun Shodunke at a press conference on the forthcoming book launch and public lecture in honour of Senator Douye Diri held in Lagos…. yesterday SUNDAY ADIGUN
Participants displaying at the grand finale of the 2025 eko World Food Day celebration organise by Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food System at the police college Ikeja Lagos recently
L-r: Former President, Association of Lagos State retired Head of Service and Permanent Secretaries (ALArHOSPS), Alhaji Mohammed Olagbaye; Principal correctional centre for boys, Oregun Lagos, Iyapo basiru; Director, Social Walfare, Dr. (Mrs) toyin Jayeola; President ALArHOSPS, Otunba Nurudeen Ojora-Adejiyan; former Secretary to State Government (SSG) Lagos State, Mrs Folashade Jaji and a member, Alhaja titilayo Agbalajobi, during a donation to the Lagos State correctional centre for boys, by ALArHOSPS, as part of the Association 12th Annual weeks, in Lagos thursday 16-102025 .
GLOBAL SOCCER GLOBAL SOCCER
Super eAgle S
A N oTH er He A rTAc H e for N I ger IANS ?
Whenthedrawsforthegroupstagesofthe2026WorldCupqualifiersweremadeandNigeriawas pitched in a group that has Lesotho,Rwanda,Zimbabwe,SouthAfrica and Benin Republic,many Nigeriansheavedasighofrelief.However,atthekickstartofthequalifiers,theSuperEagleswereyet towinagameafterfourmatches-withjustthreepointsinfourmatchesafterthreedrawsandaloss.At theendofthefinalgroupmatchesonTuesday,BafanaBafanapickedthesoleticketwhilethree-time Africanchampions,willbeputtingNigeriansthroughanotheremotionaltortureastheygothrough otherroundsofroundrobingames,Kunle Adewalewrites
For a country to go through 10 rounds of matches of a World Cup qualifier with three different coaches, goes a long way in showcasing the kind of administrators that manages her football. Of all the countries-Lesotho, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Benin Republic that competed in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers with Nigeria, none of them boasts the calibre of players at the Super Eagles’ disposal, yet as a team Nigeria is still far behind.
After missing out of the 2022 edition of the Mundial in Qatar, it is expected that the country’s football governing body, Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, would have come out with a blueprint on how thunder would not strike twice in the same spot, rather the simple task of getting the right coach for the team to prosecute the 2026 World Cup qualifiers became a big deal.
Little wonder a team that boasts of two African Footballer of the Year, forced Lesotho to a draw on home soil, could not beat Zimbabwe on a neutral ground and couldn’t hold on to a lead against Benin Republic in a match played in Cote d’Ivoire and was lucky to escape with a draw against South Africa on home ground.
Perhaps, the Nigeria Football Supporters Club, discovered the moribund state of our football earlier because for the better part of most Super Eagles matches, their sing song was-”It is a Miracle Working God” as we now need a miracle to beat Lesotho and even a war-torn Rwanda. So, if we needed a miracle to draw Lesotho and South Africa at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, what would we be requiring if we came up against countries like France, Argentina, England, Brazil and other big football nations.
Sincerely speaking, aside from going to hoist her flag in America, Canada and Mexico, what business has such a country to do at the World Cup other than to add to the numbers, of course.
After many soccer loving Nigerians have gone through near ‘hypertension’ and heartaches, the Super Eagles managed to pick up the Group C second spot, culminating in another round of qualifiers, meaning Nigerians should start bringing out their calculators as another series of permutations is about to start.
As if this is a way of confirming that given the state of Nigerian football now, Nigerians should not expect too much at any given time from the Super Eagles. The team’s captain, William Troost-Ekong, rather than feel dejected for the team’s failure to win the sole ticket for the 2026 Mundial, considering the quality of countries we were grouped against for
the qualifiers, expressed happiness at qualifying to play in the CAF Play-off, when actually we should be picking the sole ticket.
“We are quite happy to have that opportunity. It is a long route but it is a route afterall. We would have loved to get the automatic ticket but it didn’t happen and we take what we have. For us, we will remain strong and tough and ready to confront every challenge on our way as we search for the ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“It was a wonderful team effort on Tuesday evening. Everyone contributed; each person played their part. If the other match had gone in our favour, we would be with the automatic ticket now. But that’s life. You take what you get and run with it, and make the best of it,” Troost-Ekong said on Wednesday.
But for African football powerhouses like Ghana, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria, taking what you get and running with it was never in their dictionary, and that was why they went for the ‘kill’ from the first blast of the whistle.
In a telephone interview with THISDAY, former national team captain and assistant coach, Sylvanus Okpala blamed the replacement of Austin Eguaveon for the situation in which the Super Eagles
find themselves.
“The mistake the NFF made was replacing Austine Equaveon, because when he (Eguaveon) was on board he had stabilised the team. We had six matches remaining then and we were in good stead to win all the six matches. We have a very good team; it was just a question of managing them well. However, the NFF wanted what they referred to as ‘first class coach’. ‘Who is a first-class coach’. A first-class
coach is the one that wins matches and competitions,” a furious Okpala said.
For Quicksilver, as he was fondly called during his hay days, it is only a Nigerian coach that can solve Super Eagles problem.
“What it took Clemence Westerhof five years to achieve was what Stephen Keshi, Daniel Amokachi and I achieved in one year and three months by winning the African Cup of Nations in South Africa in 2013. When a foreign coach fails, we blame it on the players but if it’s a local coach, we say he does not have the technical and tactical knowhow. We need to come out of this colonial mentality,” the 1980 AFCON winner expressed.
He is however of the opinion that we can still grab the 2026 World Cup ticket with the CAF Play-off.
“We are now a playoff team, that is where we find ourselves but we still have a chance to qualify but it depends on how we handle it. We don’t have to give up. It now depends on the team’s fighting spirit. By now we should be going to the World Cup with the mindset of winning it.
After managing to qualify for the CAF play-off, after pumelling Benin Republic 4-0 in their last match, it remains to be seen how much emotional torture the Super Eagles will subject soccer loving Nigerians to.
Super eagles players celebrating booking cAf play-off after pummeling Benin republic 4-0 at the goodswill Akpabio Stadium, uyo
Nff president, gusau
Nigeria Moves up Four Places in FIFA Rankings, Now Ranked 41st
Nigeria made a significant leap in the latest FIFA world rankings released yesterday, rising to 41st in the world and 5th in Africa, which resulted from the recent Super Eagles performance in their recent World Cup qualifier campaign.
The new ranking marks Nigeria’s highest position since October 2024, when the country’s men’s football senior team were ranked 36th globally.
The three-time African champion’s rise comes on the back of a strong run in the 2026
FIFA World Cup qualifiers, beating Lesotho 2–1 away at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane before pumelling Benin Republic 4–at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
Nigeria’s current position reflects a significant gain of 11.6 points (from 1,483.86 to 1,495.64).
On the continent, the Atlas Lions of Morocco remain Africa’s highest-ranked team, though they dropped one place to 12th globally.
Senegal stay second on the
continent and 18th worldwide, while Egypt and Algeria follow in third and fourth after improving to 32nd and 35th, respectively. Nigeria’s resurgence pushes them back into fifth place, overtaking Côte d’Ivoire, who fell to sixth.
Further down the list, Tunisia (49th), Cameroon (50th), South Africa (54th), Mali (56th), and Ghana (58th) complete Africa’s top ten.
Spain continue to lead the rankings globally after strengthening their hold on the top spot with consecutive victories in the European World Cup qualifiers.
Besiktas FC Confirm Ndidi Club’sVice Captain
Following his impressive performance and good show of leadership qualities since moving to Turkey in the summer, Besiktas FC of Turkey has appointed Super Eagles stand-in captain, Wilfred Ndidi as the club’s new vice-captain. The announcement was made by the club’s board of directors in a statement released on Friday, October 17.
Ndidi will serve as deputy to Turkish international Orkun Kökçü, who has been named the
new team captain. The duo replace former captain Necip Uysal and vice captain Mert Günok as the new leaders of the first team.
According to the club’s official statement, “With the decision of our President Serdal Island and the Board of Directors, changes have been made regarding the captaincy of our Football A Team. Based on the recommendation of our technical team and the effectiveness of players on the field, Orkun Kökçü has been appointed
as first captain and Wilfred Ndidi as second captain.”
Besiktas also expressed gratitude to Uysal and Günok for their leadership and contributions, while extending best wishes to Kökçü and Ndidi in their new roles.
The new captaincy duo will begin their leadership duties when Besiktas, currently sixth on the Turkish Super Lig table with 13 points from seven matches, hosts 14th-placed Gençlerbirli SK today, in Matchday 8 of the season.
Sports Administrators, Parents Hail Kick Start of Maiden Africa School Games in Lagos
The maiden edition of the Africa School Games got off to a thrilling start yesterday, with 11 schools competing for the ultimate prize in swimming, athletics and football.
Taking place at the British International School, Victoria Island, Lagos, Day 1 was full of exciting swimming actions in 12 events across the U-11, U-13 and U-15 categories for both male and female.
The young athletes built momentum with the 50m freestyle, backstroke and butterfly events, before actions climaxed with the medley relays, keeping the spec-
tators on the edge of their seats.
Some of the schools in the early run for the top prize after Day 1 are hosts British International School, Grange School, and The RiverBank School.
One of the standout performers from Day One is Maryam Muhammad of British InternationalSchool,winningthreegold and three silver medals.
“It has been very good and I’m proud that all the hardwork as well as the support from my parents, my coaches and friends are paying off,” the 12-year-old said.
“As Team BIS, it was a very
tough competition. We are proud of ourselves, to have been able to hold our own at home. They should expect more from us in athletics and football events.”
One of the parents, Ehimhen Agunloye, also hailed the organisers of the Africa School Games.
“It’s been super exciting to be part of something so powerful and impactful for the team. I think they all came on quite prepared and the officials have been very professional. My child is at St. Saviours and I hope they win overall.”
One of the co-founders of the Africa School Games, Dr Busola Tejumola, reiterated that ASG’s goal of spotlighting talents across Africa.
5th Amuwo’ Games Get November 1 Kick off Date
The fifth edition of theAmuwo’ Games 2025 will kick off on November 25 across various centres within Amuwo Odofin Local GovernmentArea of Lagos State. This was disclosed on Wednesday at a press conference convened at the local government by the organisers of the games. According to the organisers of theAmuwo’ Games 2025, various venues across Amuwo Odofin
Local Government will stage different sports events during the games, which will commence withthetorchparadeandopening ceremonyonSaturday,November
1. The games will climax with the closing ceremony on Saturday,
the games will promote integrity, discipline,andaccountabilityamong the youths.
Prominent figure in Nigerian football development, Yemi Idowu, has voiced his concerns and hopes for the future of football academies in Nigeria. While he acknowledges the progress made by academies in nurturing talent, he believes the system remains incomplete without a robust grassroots and junior structure.
“I’m happy with the work academies are doing, that’s the progression,” Idowu said. “But I’d be happier if we had a proper youth and junior structure in place. Right now, it’s a bit disjointed.”
Idowu emphasised the need for a track record that shows what works and what doesn’t. He pointed to the success of initiatives launched since 2010 but stressed that grassroots football must be given more attention. Local coaches and academies, he argued, should be empowered to take on more prominent roles in talent development.
Lessons from Morocco
Using Morocco as a case study, Idowu highlighted how long-term investment in grassroots football has paid off. Morocco’s success at youth and senior levels—including
Afterimpressiveoutingsagainst Leopardess of Ghana in their two tune up matches for the Women’s Rugby League World Series slated for Canada in late October, coach of the Ghanaian ladies, Riddick Alibah is backing Nigeria’s Green Falcons, who are the sole representative ofAfrica and Middle East at the competition to go all the way in Canada.
In an interview with THISDAY atAlaro City International Rugby Pitch, Lekki, Lagos State after the Green Falcons defeated Ghana’s Leopardess 24 - 8 in a highly competitive and entertaining match Alibah said, “We are happy for Nigeria. We came with a very young team with the aim of promoting Rugby League in Ghana, so, getting these young ladies to Lagos to get this kind of exposure against a tough opponent is a good win for us. The second game today
their historic run to the World Cup semifinals—is rooted in a nationwide structure that begins in villages and culminates in elite facilities like the King Mohammed VI Football Academy.
“What Morocco has done is the result of a long journey. That center is just the tip of a grassroots pyramid. If you go to their villages, you’ll see the structure. That’s what we don’t have.”
He argued that Nigeria doesn’t need expensive stadiums to build a strong foundation. Simple grass fields and functioning junior leagues are enough. What’s missing, he said, is access to basic resources—like quality footballs.
“Today, we can’t even get competition-grade football in Nigeria. Most of what’s sold is fake. Let the Sports Commission distribute quality footballs for free. It costs nothing.”
The Role of NFF, Local Governments
Idowu believes the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) should focus on elite football, while state and local governments should handle junior development. He called for decentralisation of funding and
(last Saturday) was a big progress.
“The first game was 40-0, but the second game was very competitive. A big congratulations for making it happen. We wish Nigeria well ahead of the World Series, we wish theyreallydoAfricaproud.Wewish them all the best,” Alibah said.
Asked how far he thinks Nigeria can go; he replied: “They can go as far as they want to go because they have a good attitude. For coaches, there is something you cannot teach and that is attitude. The Green Falcons have a positive attitude and a great spirit, and that is all you need to go far in a tournament. Technicality wise. Their coaches are still working on them to get better.
“When they meet tougher opponents. Of course, which they will, they will meet their match, but with that attitude they will excel. We
infrastructure to ensure children don’t have to travel long distances to play regularly.
“If you want to play every week, you can’t travel too far. Local governments should fund infrastructure and support coaches with small allowances and training kits. The rest, they will do.”
Academies vs. League Teams
Idowu also addressed the growing trend of top Nigerian players emerging from academies rather than league teams. He attributes this to the academies’ willingness to give young players opportunities, unlike some league teams that are dominated by older players.
“Academies are doing the right thing. The league isn’t. Once you reach a certain age and don’t make the grade, you should move on and make space for younger players. If you don’t, they’ll go where they’re allowed to play.”
know they will go far. Hopefully, they keep their attitude and stay together. They will definitely go far. They just needed to be more attentive.Theyarecompetitive,they have all the right tools to compete with the best in the world. They are going to the World Series with lots of experience and confidence behindthem,havingbeeninvolved in several matches.”
Speakinginthesamevein,Coach of the Green Falcons, Luke Shearman is optimistic of his girls’ victory in Canada.
“There is no reason why we can’t win the Women’s Rugby League World Series, though today wasn’t our best display but we know what the girls are capable of, if we can finetune the processes and our skills but remain physical, there is no reason why we can’t win,” Shearman opined.
Premier League Returns with Liverpool vs United Live on SuperSport
The international break is over, and the Premier League returns with a heavyweight weekend of football, headlined by a Super Sunday clash between Liverpool and Man United, live on SuperSport Premier League (GOtv Ch. 65, DStv Ch. 203).
Manchester City against Everton, as Pep Guardiola’s men look to continue their pushbackupthetable.
The evening fixture sees Fulham welcomeArsenal at 5:30 pm. Sunday’s games open with TottenhamHotspurathometoAstonVillaat 2:00pm.Laterthatafternoon,Liverpool willhostManUnitedat4:30pm.Arne Slot’sLiverpoolaredesperatetobounce backafterthreeconsecutive defeats in all competitions. Despite their recent dip, the Reds remain one point off November 23. Eight teams will compete in 16 sports,includingathletics,basketball, chess, cycling, draughts, football, five-aside football, scrabble, swimming, table tennis, tennis, volleyball andmarathon.Eachteamisexpected to have at least 75 athletes.
Themed ‘Cancel Scam Culture’,
Themulti-sportsfiesta,targetedat discovering talents from the grassroots, aimed to foster unity while promoting healthy rivalry among residents of various communities in Amuwo-Odofin.
The action kicks off today at 12:30pmwhenNottinghamForest host Chelsea at the City Ground.
At 3:00 pm, attention turns to a busy afternoon slate featuring
first place and will look to reignite their title charge. For United, Ruben Amorim guided his side to a 2–0 win over Sunderland before the break and will look to find form. Both clubs will be seeking a positive result to boost morale.
The weekend concludes on Monday night as West Ham United face Brentford at 8:00 pm. All games will be broadcast live and exclusively on SuperSport, available on GOtv and DStv.
Athletes at the maiden Africa School Games which kicked off in Lagos…yesterday
Green Falcons against Leopardess of Ghana at the Alaro City International rugby pitch, Lekki, Lagos State as part of the team’s preparation for the women’s rugby League world Series slated for Canada
Yemi Idowu
Yemi Idowu calls for backing Football Academies with Grassroots reform
Ghana backs Nigeria’s Green Falcons to Make Africa Proud
L-r Convener of AmuwoGames, Mr Oluwaseun Ayeni; Chairman, Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area, prince Lanre Sanusi; and Chief Of Staff of the Amuwo Local Government, Mr Moses Olanrewaju
OBINNA CHIMA
obinna.chima@thisdaylive.com
Defections and PDP’s Continuous Decline
When on June 14, this year, I wrote about the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), with the title, ‘PDP: Can This Dry Bone Live Again?’ I never knew that the party’s decline would deepen so rapidly within a few months.
At the time, I merely reflected on its waning influence and the urgent need for internal renewal. But recent events, including the widening division among its National Working Committee (NWC), intense legal battle ahead of its November National Convention, relentless defection of its members in the National and State Houses of Assembly, the shocking defection of Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the sudden exit of Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, have turned that question from a metaphor into a full-blown political reality.
Once the most formidable political party on the continent, the PDP, which dominated Nigeria’s political landscape like a colossus for 16 unbroken years, has, in less than a decade, become a shadow of its former self, disoriented, divided, and increasingly battling for survival in the Nigerian political setting.
Governor Mbah, his deputy, Ifeanyi Ossai, the cabinet, and the entire political structure in the State dumped the opposition party for the APC. Mbah, during a ceremony to mark his movement to the ruling party, had described the APC as the largest political party in Africa, adding that his defection was “a collective decision of the entire political family of the state.”
Further justifying his decision, Mbah said the vision of Enugu State has now found stronger reinforcement at the centre.
The Governor stated that for over three decades, the people of Enugu walked side by side with the opposition party, yet their voices were too often disregarded
when it mattered most, a clear betrayal of faithfulness, fairness, and friendship. He said some of the betrayals included the failure to zone the Presidency of the party to the South-east in 2023 and the failure to recognise Sunday Udeh-Okoye, a former PDP youth leader as the party’s national secretary.
Ahead of his defection, the Enugu Governor had warned that the failure of the PDP to ratify Udeh-Okoye as South-east’s choice for the Secretary of the opposition party could cause the exit of his followers from the PDP. In their communique after the South East Zonal Executive Committee (ZEC) meeting at THE Government House, Enugu, on May 14, the South East PDP had warned that it was fed up and might leave the party if it failed to ratify Udeh-Okoye as the National Secretary for the umpteenth time.
For Bayelsa’s Douye Diri, who announced his resignation from the leading opposition party following weeks of speculation, left with about 17 members of the PDP caucus in the House of Assembly, but did not disclose his new political party.
As expected, leaders of the PDP, such
as Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, Chief Olabode George, former Bayelsa Governor, Seriake Dickson, and the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, have assured members not to lose hope, assuring them that the party’s current challenges are only temporary. For them, the PDP’s strength lies with the people, not the defecting lawmakers and Governors.
Indeed, while the current wave of defection raises concerns of a one-party State, it must be noted that the survival of the PDP is not merely about preserving a political brand; it is about safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic integrity. The persistent fragmentation within the party has weakened the PDP’s ability to serve as an effective opposition. In a country where checks and balances are already fragile, a divided opposition further endangers democratic accountability.
As the country’s oldest and once most dominant political party, the PDP had been instrumental in shaping modern Nigeria’s democratic journey. Its collapse would further entrench a dangerous political monopoly, weakening opposition voices and eroding the checks and balances essential in a healthy democracy.
The role of opposition parties is critical in determining the level of accountability from governing parties and governments, the effectiveness of public service delivery, and the overall quality of a country’s democracy.
Just as Senator Seriake Dickson said in his recent intervention on the matter, “A democracy without opposition ceases to be a democracy. It becomes a dictatorship from that day. It becomes totalitarian from that day. Opposition does not mean you have to be fighting.”
The opposition has a duty to themselves and to their voters to play the role of an alternative government and, indeed, the role of a government in waiting. In fact, in more mature democracies, this is well recognised and the leader of the largest opposition party is often given access to
sensitive information on the basis that he or she, as the Prime Minister in waiting, has to be ready to perform the role of running the country at comparatively short notice. The opposition has the responsibility to give attention to the continuous development of its policies and to keep these in view before parliament and the people. The major challenge for the opposition is its need to be seen as credible in this role.
A democratic system is significantly undermined if the opposition does not offer any credible alternatives to the governing party, which is what we see in Nigeria today.
In the corporate world, rebuilding a dying or dead brand requires a combination of honest self-assessment, strategic reinvention, and disciplined execution. The process is challenging, but with the right approach, it’s also an opportunity to craft a stronger, more resilient identity.
If the PDP is to regain relevance and rebrand itself, it must begin with a sober internal reckoning. This means resolving long-standing leadership crises and reconnecting with the Nigerian people, particularly the youth and middle class. Its leaders must look beyond personalities and factions and focus on rebuilding public trust ahead of 2027.
More importantly, for it to become competitive once more, stakeholders of the main opposition party must rebuild from the grassroots, where we have millions of Nigerians who are not politically aligned but are deeply affected by national policies and yearn for meaningful representation. This set of citizens who are mostly traders, farmers, artisans, young professionals, and the unemployed, form the real electoral base, and their trust can only be regained through consistent engagement, visible impact, and authentic leadership at the community level.
Finally, the PDP must also embrace transparency in its primaries, cultivate new voices untainted by past excesses, and offer a compelling vision that speaks to the nation’s current challenges.
PDP National Chairman, Umar Damagum
KWARA ROAD INSPECTION... Nigeria Governors’ Forum Chairman/Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (left) and Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, during an inspection of the 42.6km Eiyenkorin-Afon-Ojoku-Offa Road in Kwara State…recently
