Delivers 45 million litres of petrol, 25 million litres of diesel daily
Peter Uzoho
Dangote Petroleum Refinery has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring
steady and uninterrupted supply of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly referred to as petrol, and Automotive Gas Oil
(diesel) nationwide, with a daily production capacity exceeding the domestic demand.
Speaking on the development, Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer, Dangote Industries Limited, Anthony Chiejina, said the
refinery’s operations are driven by the company’s dedication to supporting national energy stability and consumer confidence. “Our
PDP Insists on Holding National Convention Despite Court Ruling
Trump Lists Nigeria as ‘Country of Particular Concern’ Amid Alleged Christian Killings
Sunday Ehigiator
President Donald Trump yesterday designated Nigeria a ‘Country of Particular Concern,’ citing alleged widespread killings of Christians and rising religious intolerance.
"Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria," Trump posted on Truth Social. "Thousands of Christians are being killed. Radical Islamists are responsible for this mass slaughter. I am hereby making Nigeria a "COUNTRY OF
PARTICULAR CONCERN" — But that is the least of it."
This comes despite pushback from the Nigerian government, as only a few days ago, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, faulted some US lawmakers for relying on what he described as “inaccurate and misleading data” to accuse Nigeria of carrying out a Christian genocide.
The immediate past Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd.) (left), with his successor, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, during his formal pulling-out ceremony as the 18th CDS at the Army Headquarters Garrison Command, Mogadishu Cantonment, Asokoro, Abuja…yesterday
Nume Ekeghe and Kayode Tokede
PDP Insists on Holding National Convention Despite Court Ruling
Declares does not vitiate its activities
Judgement joke of the century, display of brigandage,
says Bode George Wike, Anyanwu hail verdict Court sacks decampee
Okocha, Alex
and Wale
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday maintained its decision to proceed with its forthcoming national convention scheduled for November 15 and 16, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State, despite a ruling by a Federal High Court in
Abuja under trial justice James Omotosho, that torpedoed the process and restrained the party from convening the exercise.
While the National Publicity Secretary of the Party, Debo Ologunagba said the order does not vitiate their planned convention as it did not stop them from activities towards it, Chieftain and Deputy National Vice
Chairman of the Party, Chief Olabode George dismissed the order as “joke of the century, open recipe for anarchy and a display of judicial brigandage".
But the FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, applauded the court ruling, describing the judgement as a wise and very good decision opposed to the business-as-usual way of doing things.
Wike stated this last night
at a meeting held with Concerned PDP stakeholders at his residence in Abuja. Also yesterday, a different suit by former Governor of Jigawa State who had approached a High Court in Jigawa to stop the convention for trying to exclude him through denial of nomination form for the position of National Chairman of the party, failed as the court refused to grant
the motion ex parte
In yet another case, a Federal High Court in Abuja sacked a member of the House of Representatives Abubakar Gummi, for defecting from the PDP to All Progressives Congress (APC).
Justice Omotosho issued the order yesterday, while delivering judgment in a suit challenging the legality of the convention.
Three aggrieved members of the PDP; Hon Austin Nwachukwu (Imo PDP chairman), Hon Amah Abraham Nnanna (Abia PDP chairman) and Turnah Alabh George (PDP Secretary, SouthSouth), had dragged the electoral umpire to court, over the November 15 and 16, National Convention of the party, scheduled to hold in Ibadan.
TRUMP LISTS NIGERIA AS ‘COUNTRY OF PARTICULAR CONCERN’ AMID ALLEGED CHRISTIAN KILLINGS
When contacted yesterday, Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Tinubu, said the “Federal Government of Nigeria is studying the situation and by tomorrow (today), we shall respond.”
The ‘Countries of Particular Concern’ is a list of nations the US finds to have engaged in religious freedom violations. The list includes China, Myanmar, North Korea, Russia, Pakistan, among others, according to the State Department website.
The US President emphasised that action must be taken when people are persecuted for their faith.
"The United States cannot stand by while such atrocities are happening in Nigeria, and numerous other Countries," Trump said. "We stand ready, willing, and able to save our Great Christian population around the World!"
According to the international watchdog group Open Doors, nearly 70 percent of all Christians killed for their faith worldwide last year were in Nigeria. The group warned that Boko Haram, Islamic State West Africa Province
FOX News quoted Trump to have said he had directed Rep. Riley Moore, R-W. Va., Rep. Tom Cole, R-Okla., and members of the House Appropriations Committee to investigate the situation and report their findings to him.
(ISWAP), and Fulani militant herders were responsible for most of the bloodshed, often targeting Christian farmers in the country’s Middle Belt. Rights organisations estimate that thousands of believers are murdered every year, while countless others are forced to flee.
Trump’s ambassadordesignate for International Religious Freedom, Mark Walker, told Fox News Digital that the United States must do what it can to pressure Nigeria’s government to act.
"Even being conservative, it’s probably 4,000 to 8,000 Christians killed annually," Walker said. "This has been going on for years — from ISWAP to Islamist Fulani ethnic
militias — and the Nigerian government has to be much more proactive."
The White House also acknowledged a surge in antiChristian violence across subSaharan Africa, where jihadist movements were exploiting political instability and porous borders. Both Pope Leo and the U.S. State Department had condemned recent massacres in Nigeria, warning that the crisis risks spreading beyond the country’s borders.
Walker added, "The United States should always stand up for freedom of religion, and that starts with speaking the truth about what’s happening."
While humanitarian groups continue to raise alarm, Nigeria’s Information
Minister, Idris recently told Fox News Digital that claims of mass persecution are "very misleading," rejecting U.S. reports that tens of thousands have been killed.
Idris spoke during an interview on CNN earlier this week, saying the claims, which prompted calls for US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to impose diplomatic sanctions on Nigeria, distort the country’s complex security realities.
“Some of the claims made by officials of the United States are based on faulty data and the assumption that victims of violence are largely Christians,” Idris had said.
“Yes, there are Christians being attacked, but these criminals do not target one
NAIRA STRENGTHENS TO N1,421/$, STOCK MARKET GAINS N35.07TRN IN 10 MONTHS
official forex market, reflecting improved liquidity and investors’ confidence.
At the same time, the stock market maintained its upward momentum, with investors gaining N35.07 trillion in value over the past 10 months, underscoring renewed optimism across key sectors.
The naira extended its rally by appreciating by 1.1 per cent against the dollar to close at N1,421.73 on the official market yesterday. Yesterday’s gain was the strongest level since the launch of the Central Bank’s Electronic Foreign Exchange Matching System (EFEMS).
The sustained rally,
underpinned by policy reforms and improved foreign inflows, signalled rising confidence in the management of the foreign exchange market.
Data from the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM) showed that the naira gained N15.24 from Thursday’s rate of N1,436.97/$.
On the parallel market, the naira exchange rate against the dollar also firmed by 0.7 per cent, closing at N1,450 in Lagos, compared to N1,460 the previous day. The spread between both markets narrowed to N28.27, indicating a gradual convergence between the official and informal market
rates.
Analysts attributed the appreciation in the naira exchange rate to CBN’s sustained reforms, stronger oil receipts, and improved foreign portfolio investment inflows.
Africa’s richest man and President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, recently expressed optimism that the domestic currency’s rally would continue in the coming months. Speaking at a world press conference in Lagos, Dangote had said: “I can assure you that within the next one or two months, with the new policy of the government
supporting the downstream, you will see the dollar rate actually improve a lot.
“If I have dollars today, I would rather sell them than wait for the next month or so.”
Speaking to THISDAY on the current momentum, the Head of Financial Institutions
Ratings at Agusto & Co., Mr. Ayokunle Olubunmi, said:
“The strengthening naira is caused by the combination of several factors. The acceptability of the various reforms of the CBN and the success in attracting FPIs have significantly supported the currency.
million litres of diesel daily which exceeds Nigeria’s demand,” Chiejina said in a statement yesterday. “We are working collaboratively with regulatory agencies and distribution partners to guarantee efficient nationwide delivery. Dangote remains steadfast in its commitment to meeting the energy needs of Nigerians. This significant production capacity not only guarantees local supply but also enhances energy security and reduces dependence on imports,” he added.
He noted that improved local production of petroleum products has helped stabilise
the exchange rate and strengthen the naira.
“We have reduced foreign exchange outflows and increased inflows, which in turn supports the naira and strengthens the economy,” he added.
He further explained that it would be unpatriotic for anyone to criticise the recently announced tariff, which, according to him, was a good start. He emphasised that the tariff was designed to protect domestic industries from unfair competition and safeguard local production.
“Dumping engenders poverty, discourages
industrialisation, creates unemployment and leads to revenue loss for the government. Across the world, nations protect their local manufacturers and industries from the threat of dumping. Dumping destroyed our textile industry, which was once a major employer of labour and creator of wealth,” he added.
He noted that beyond the tariff, the government should strengthen its monitoring and enforcement mechanisms to prevent the dumping of substandard and toxic petroleum products by unscrupulous and rent-
seeking individuals who prioritise profiteering at the expense of Nigerians, often undermining well-intentioned government policies for their selfish interests.
He added that the prevalence of dumping in past years discouraged investors from establishing industries in Nigeria, as imported products flooded the market at unsustainable prices, undermining local production. The new tariff policy, he noted, would benefit local refiners and encourage fresh investments in the downstream oil sector, thereby strengthening
from the weak USD on the back of the various policies of the Trump administration. The removal of Nigeria from the Grey List would further support the currency. However, navigating the bond obligations maturing before year-end will be imperative in keeping the exchange rate stable.”
Meanwhile, average investors’ return on the stock market segment of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) appreciated to N35.1 trillion in the first 10 months of 2025, attributable to the favourable foreign exchange, among other reforms of the federal government.
Nigeria’s industrial base and creating more jobs.
He commended the foresight of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the tariff policy aimed at strengthening and transforming Nigeria’s downstream oil and gas sector. He noted that the decision reflects the administration’s commitment to creating a stable, businessfriendly environment that supports local investment and enhances energy security.
"President Bola Ahmed Tinubu continues to embody courageous and visionary leadership, renewing the
religion — they attack both Christians and Muslims, especially in the northern part of the country.”
According to Idris, the federal government remains committed to protecting religious freedom and upholding human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. He emphasised that freedom of religion is guaranteed under the Nigerian Constitution and must be respected by all. The minister warned that spreading false narratives about a religious genocide risks playing into the hands of criminals who seek to incite sectarian conflict. He insisted that Nigeria’s insecurity should not be characterised as a religious war.
Measuring the performance by market capitalisation, data compiled by THISDAY revealed that the stock market opened for trading in 2025 at N62.763 trillion, gained 55.87per cent or N35.07 trillion to close October 31, 2025, at N97.829 trillion.
On the other hand, the NGX All-Share Index closed yesterday at 154,126.46 basis points, gaining 51,200.06 basis points or 49.7 per cent from 102,926.40 basis points, the index closed for trading in 2024.
hope of Nigerians and restoring investor confidence in the nation’s economy. His administration’s bold and business-friendly reforms are reshaping the downstream oil and gas sector, unlocking new opportunities for industrial growth and national prosperity. The latest policy initiative stands as a testament to his foresight — one of the most transformative steps yet toward securing Nigeria’s energy future and empowering local industries to thrive," he said.
Chuks
Enumah
Ajimotokan in Abuja
ECOWAS AT 50...
Peter Obi: Investment in Healthcare Sector
Can Raise Life Expectancy in Nigeria
Donates N20m to nursing college, mission hospital
David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka
Former Anambra State Governor and presidential candidate of Labour Party in the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi, has said that investment in the healthcare sector can help raise life expectancy in Nigeria.
Obi, who was at College of Nursing Sciences, Amichi, Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State, yesterday, to make a donation to the college, said Nigeria presently was among the countries with the lowest life expectancy.
He however said that investing in the training of doctors and nurses and also
equipping hospitals can help Nigerians live longer, bearing in mind that a country is only productive when its health sector is functioning well.
Obi who presented a cheque of N15 million to the college also addressed the students, encouraging them to take their profession seriously.
He said, "By 2030, we will have a shortage of healthcare workers in Nigeria. Many healthcare workers are leaving Nigeria, but with support, we can train enough nurses and doctors to help Nigeria.
"Life expectancy today in Nigeria is about 55 years, it is among the lowest in the world, but I believe that with investments in healthcare
Adedoyin Faults NDIC’s Publication on Defunct City Express Bank
Former Chairman of the defunct City Express Bank, Prince Samuel Adedoyin, has described as false, biased and defamatory a publication by the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) on the failure of the bank.
Adedoyin, through his lawyer, A.O. Akinrimisi, said the NDIC report titled ‘Failure of City Express Bank’ published on the Corporation’s website, failed to reflect key court rulings and developments since the bank’s closure.
According to him, the report was “inaccurate, incomplete and one-sided,” and was aimed at shifting blame from
NDIC’s own regulatory lapses.
“The publication omits crucial facts and fails to mention cases already determined by the Federal High Court, which have invalidated NDIC’s claims,” the statement read.
The lawyer cited Suit No. FHC/L/CS/87/2006, where the Federal High Court struck out NDIC’s unproven debt claims against Adedoyin and associated companies, and Suit No. FHC/L/ CS/1690/2017, in which the court restrained NDIC from further selling the bank’s assets until full returns were filed and an account of the bank’s assets provided, an order NDIC has allegedly disobeyed.
sector, we can raise life expectancy in Nigeria.
"That is why I have been supporting the healthcare sector in Nigeria in my own little way by donating to hospitals and nursing colleges. We are here to support the Bishop (Ephraim Ikeakor) in our own little way, because we know how he started this college and what he has done to bring it to what it is today.
"You as nurses have a job to do, to better the healthcare sector. Don't just accept that the country is messed up, but do your own part to make it better because everyone has to do their own part.
"I'm here because I consider you very important and I have to do this as my own way to support healthcare in Nigeria. Health is number one measurement of any society. The first measurement
of life of any society is life expectancy, and some of us are aware that Nigeria has the least life expectancy in the world."
Reacting to this, the Anglican Bishop of Nnewi Diocese and Proprietor of the College, Bishop Ephraim Ikeakor, praised Obi for continuously coming back to donate to the college despite his contribution to its establishment when he
was governor. He said Obi’s consistency reflects his sincerity and passion for uplifting the community. He said, "Obi's style of politics is different. I have never seen a place where someone contested election and even after election he is still making donations as if it is campaign period. This is a man Nigeria will treasure for a long time."
To Unlock $3bn Financing Opportunities,
FG
Okays National Carbon Market Framework
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Ahead of the 30th session of the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Brazil, President Bola Tinubu has approved the adoption of a National Carbon Market Framework and the operationalisation of the Climate Change Fund.
The goal is to establish and manage Nigeria's participation in carbon markets, enabling the nation to unlock between
$2.5 billion and $3 billion annually in carbon finance over the next decade to help meet climate goals.
The approvals followed a presentation by the Director General of National Council on Climate Change and Secretary to the Council (NCCC), Mrs. Omotenioye Majekodunmi, at the second meeting of the Council held at the State House, Abuja.
President Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima,
said the approvals were part of measures by his administration to properly position Nigeria to leverage opportunities in the global carbon market and be more active in climate change ecosystem.
The President also set the agenda for Nigeria ahead of the forthcoming 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 30) scheduled for Belem, Brazil, saying the focus is to harness all of the opportunities for financing climate resilient projects and related interventions, particularly from the global carbon market.
President Tinubu said his administration recognises the fact that addressing climate change is not just an environmental imperative but an opportunity to unlock new investments, jobs and innovations across the nation's energy, agriculture and industrial sectors.
Q3 2025: UBA Delivers N538bn PAT, Robust Balance Sheet
Kayode Tokede
The United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc has announced its audited results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2025, where it recorded strong and impressive growth across all its key indicators. As in the first two quarters of the current fiscal year, the bank’s gross earnings grew by three per cent to N2.469 trillion, up from N2.398 trillion
recorded in September last year, while its net Interest income which stood at N1.103 trillion at the end of the third quarter in 2024, rose by 6.2 per cent to N1.172 trillion in the period under consideration.
According to a statement, the bank’s financial report filed with the Nigerian Exchange Limited, also indicated a slight drop by 4.1 per cent in Profit before Tax (PBT) to N578.59 billion
compared to N603.48 recorded at the end of the third quarter of 2024, while profit after tax rose by 2.3 per cent from N525.31 billion recorded a year earlier to N537.53 billion at the end of September 2025.
It noted that as in the preceding two quarters this year, UBA continues to maintain a very strong balance sheet, with Total Assets rising to N32.492 trillion, representing a 7.2 per cent increase over the
N30.323 trillion recorded at the end of December 2024, just as total deposits rose by 7.7 per cent from N24.651 trillion at the end of last year to N26.54 trillion in September 2025. UBA shareholders’ funds remained very strong at N4.301 trillion rising by 25.8 per cent from N3.418 trillion recorded in December 2024 again reflecting a strong capacity for internal capital generation and growth.
Wale Igbintade
L-R: Senegalese Special Envoy on International Affairs, Prof. Abdulllaye Bathilly; a Professor of Leadership, Peace and Conflict at King's College, London, Funmi Olonisakin; Commissioner, Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, PAPS, AbdelFatay Musah; Former Governor of Ekiti State/Co-founder, Amandla Institute for Policy and Leadership Advancement, Dr. Kayode Fayemi; Co-founder, Amandla, Bisi Fayemi; Chairman of the AU High-Level Panel on Sudan, Dr. Mohammed Iba Chambas and Executive Secretary, CODESRIA; Godwin Murunga, during the Meeting of Experts and African Public Square, organised by Ahmandla to commemorate 50th anniversary of ECOWAS in Abuja...yesterday
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly opposed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval of a 15 per cent import duty on petrol and diesel, saying it may further deepen the economic hardship for Nigerians already burdened by the astronomically high cost of living, warning the President not to push the people to the wall.
Equally, the 15 per cent tariff
has triggered divergent views among petroleum products marketers as some criticised the timing of the policy, warning of more hardship for already suffering Nigerian masses as fuel prices are expected to rise further.
But some others expressed their support for the initiative because of its focus on supporting local refining and discouraging importation with attendant foreign exchange burden.
The new policy, approved
Access Holdings Grows Profit Before Tax by 10.4% to N616bn in Q3 2025
Kayode Tokede
Access Holdings Plc, yesterday announced a N616 billion profit before tax for the third quarter (Q3) ended September 30, 2025, which was a 10.4 per cent year-on-year (YoY) increase over the N558 billion declared in the third quarter (Q3) ended September 30, 2024.
The group from the profit & loss figures recorded improved performance for Q3 2025, with gross earnings rising by 14.1 per cent YoY to N3.9trillion from N3.4 trillion as at Q3 2024.
The Company Secretary, Access Holdings, Sunday Ekwochi, in a statement stated that, “This performance was driven by sustained growth in both interest and fees and commission, reflecting the strength of the Group’s diversified earnings base and improved performance from core operations across its banking and non-banking businesses.
“Maintaining the same momentum, gross earnings rose by 56.2per cent quarteron-quarter from N2.5 trillion as
at Half Year (H1) 2025. Interest income rose by 21.1 per cent year-on-year to N2.9 trillion in Q3 2025, compared to N2.4 trillion in Q3 2024.
“Net interest income also increased by 48.9per cent to N1.3 trillion from N845 billion in the same period. This performance was driven by loan book expansion, reflecting our disciplined risk management approach and a strategic focus towards higher-yielding, quality assets to strengthen portfolio returns.
“On a quarter-on-quarter basis, interest income and net interest income grew by 42.1per cent and 27.8per cent, respectively, from N2.0 trillion and N984 billion in H1 2025.
“There was 44.3per cent growth in net fee and commission to N476 billion in Q3 2025 from N330 billion in Q3 2024, reflecting higher transaction volumes and increased customer activity across digital and payment channels across both periods.
On a quarter-on-quarter basis, net fee and commission income also increased by 100.8per cent from N237billion in H1 2025.
by President Bola Tinubu is expected to take effect after a 30day transition period expected to end on 21 November 2025. Tinubu had in a letter dated 21 October 2025, addressed to the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, directed the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream
Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) on the immediate implementation of the tariff as part of what the government described as a “market-responsive import tariff framework.”
Since the policy became public knowledge, a lot of stakeholders in the petroleum marketing sector have expressed views for and against it,
pointing out the gains and the pitfalls for the initiative.
In a statement signed by the National Publicity Secretary of the ADC, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said that while it supports private investments in the energy sector, policies meant to protect such investments must also protect the people and put their interests first.
The party also questioned the rationale behind imposing the levy under the guise of protecting domestic production, pointing out that the Port Harcourt refinery, cited as a key component of the government’s local refining strategy, collapsed just five months after a 1.5 billion dollar rehabilitation, resulting in a 366.2 billion naira lost
THISDAY's Omolabake Fasogbon, 14 Others
Selected for West Africa DPI Fellowship
Omolabake Fasogbon, a journalist with THISDAY newspaper, has been selected for 2025/2026 Digital Public Infrastructure(DPI) Journalism Fellowship by the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA).
Fasogbon was selected alongside 14 other journalists across the country, emerging from a rigorous multi-stage
competitive process.
The DPI Journalism Fellowship is a flagship initiative jointly implemented by the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), in partnership with support from Co-Develop.
The Fellowship aims to amplify public awareness, participation, and uptake of Digital Public Infrastructure
(DPI) and Digital Public Goods and Services (DPGs) through media narratives and public discourses.
Through this opportunity, selected journalists will receive hands-on training, editorial mentorship, and access to a continental information hub that curates resources and data on DPIs and DPGs.
Fasogbon and 14 others
emerged as the finalists from close to 200 applicants and 45 shortlisted candidates.
In a statement announcing the fellows, MFWA disclosed that the 15 Fellows were drawn from a mix of print, broadcast, and online media outlets from Nigeria; and are made up of a fairly balanced gender representation of eight males and seven females.
Art Collector, Shyllon Urges Govt to Invest More in Education
A renowned artist, collector and philanthropist, Dr. Yemisi Shyllon, has challenged governments at all levels to do more on education in order to solve many of the problems confronting the country.
Shyllon made the call at the unveiling of a life-size
bronze statue of the late Tai Solarin, which he donated to the Ijagun Campus of Tai Solarin Federal University of Education (TASUED) in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
The unveiled statue was one of the two donated by Shyllon to Nigerian universities as legacy projects in honour of who they were named.
The second statue is what was described as a largerthan-life bronze monument of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and would be unveiled on December 5, 2025 during a three-in-one event at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, Osun State.
Also in the field of art, the ‘Omooba Yemisi Adedoyin Shyllon Exhibition Hall’ will
be unveiled at the Nigerian Unity Museum of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments, Jericho. According to Shyllon, the likes of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo did much to promote education in their time, which he said is why he was doing something to immortalise him.
Pharmacists Expose Drug Distribution Racket in Public Hospitals
Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) has exposed an illegal drug distribution network in public health institutions in the country.
The organised racket, according to ACPN, is being perpetrated with active
connivance of the hospital management and some pharmaceutical companies.
The National Chairman ACPN, Pharm Ambrose Ezeh, alleged Federal Ministry of Health’s complicity in the unlawful business which he said undermines statutory
provisions governing pharmaceutical control in the country.
ACPN frowned at the “unethical misconduct” of some pharma companies and their Superintendent Pharmacists who have been running practices albeit
unlawfully in some Federal Health Institutions (FHIs) with tacit endorsement of both hospital managements as well as the Federal Ministry of Health (FMoH), declaring that it was time to put a stop to the unwholesome practices.
James Sowole in Abeokuta
Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Peter Uzoho in Lagos
L-R: Former Attorney General of Nigeria, Adebayo Ojo; his wife, Folashade Ojo; Bride's Parents, Funsho Owoyemi; his wife, Rita Owoyemi; the couple, Precious and Solape Ibironke, and Groom's Parents, Adeniran Ibironke, and his wife, Ibifuro Ibironke, during the reception of Precious and Solape traditional marriage in Lagos… Thursday KUNLE OGUNFUYI
My Last Moment With Dele Giwa
NYAKNNO OSSO pays tribute to Dele Giwa, former Editor-in-Chief of Newswatch
Whenever I recall the circumstances that led to the death of Dele Giwa, the painful memory torments, forcing helpless flow of anger and sadness. Giwa was one of Nigeria’s most talented journalists. Between us, he was not just my boss, he was a friend and a senior brother.
Next to Uncle Ray who brought me into the media industry and created opportunities for me to explore the world, expand the scope of my career and make impact, Giwa gave me the platform that made me shine. He provided the inspiration and the guidance that I needed to get the job done, from the day I joined the Newswatch magazine as a pioneer member of staff.
My knowledge of Giwa started evolving when I read his first column in Nigeria’s Sunday Times on April 8, 1979. The headline was: Golden Fleece? I think I got it!
As stated earlier, I met him in person for the first time in early 1980 in Calabar during the annual conference of the Nigerian Guild of Editors. Uncle Ray, who was his bosom friend and my editor at that time, brought Giwa to my office to cross-check information on a story he was doing for the Sunday Concord.
Giwa was amazed and obviously excited when I showed him folders containing all his writings since that day in 1979. He was surprised and impressed that I meticulously kept a comprehensive documentation of all his writings since he returned to Nigeria. I labelled the folder: Dele Giwa: An Annotated Biobibliogaphy, April 1979. We became friends instantly. Later, he invited me to join the Newswatch magazine team in July 1984. I felt honoured that he had to personally come all the way from Lagos to Calabar to invite me, not just as a pioneer staff member, but as the first person on the senior management staff to head the Research, Library and Documentation Section of the organisation. It was a demonstration of the confidence in what he believed I could do. He charged me to collect and preserve all the data that would help the magazine in its brand of journalism, which was new in Nigeria.
drawn from my previous writings and recollections of what made Dele Giwa who he was. I did not work with him at the Daily Times or Concord. But I knew that he kept two weekly columns at the Times, where he was the features editor before moving to the Concord. One was called Press Snaps and the other Parallax World (later changed to Parallax View). They used to appear on Wednesday and Friday, respectively.
When he went to edit the Sunday Concord from February 1980, he fused the two columns into what he called Parallax Snaps. It started featuring from Sunday, March 2, 1980, and ended on March 11, 1984. At Newswatch, the column was retained from February 11, 1985 to October 1986.
Indeed, Giwa was a believer in the written word. In a paraphrase of one of the Biblical Old Testament prophets, his perception was that the written word is ageless, its message timeless, its relevance endless (Habakkuk2:3)
Within the time I knew Giwa, he had written more than 300 lively and thought-provoking columns that touched on all aspects of life. Such a person cannot, should not and will not be ignored or forgotten in a hurry. In a sense, he was ahead of his time like the gifted Nigerian poet, Christopher Okigbo, who had foreseen the “going and coming that goes on forever.”
From the moment I joined Newswatch magazine, Giwa developed and sustained great confidence in me as a rigorous collector and preserver of facts and figures, and consequently handed over everything he had written up to 1984 to me for preservation. I took those materials to a bank vault in Ikeja, Lagos for safe-keeping.
Every time I go through some of his writings, it strikes me that one of the most memorable moments of Giwa’s career as a journalist was on August 30, 1984, the day he received a public apology from the then Inspector-General of Police, the late Etim Inyang. The apology followed a court order, which condemned his wrongful arrest and detention by the police, under Sunday Adewusi as Inspector General, in February 1983.
Most of what you will read in this chapter will be
WExcerpts from Osso’s book, ‘AGAINST ALL ODDS: My Testimony’
Beyond Davido’s Five-Star Concert
hen Nigerian music star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, announced Akwa Ibom as the first stop of his 5IVE Alive Tour, many people thought it would be just another concert. But what happened in Uyo went beyond music.
Beneath the spectacle was a story of World class infrastructure, peace, and the growing influence of culture as a tool of economic development. The event was indeed a demonstration of how art can align with governance to shape a state’s identity and economy.
Davido’s decision to begin his Nigerian tour in Akwa Ibom was a deliberate choice rooted in appreciation for what the state represents and has become in a short span of time, under a succession of quality leadership.
Davido himself said that while scouting for locations across Africa, Akwa Ibom stood out because of its world-class facilities and organized environment.
“We were looking around Africa, and Akwa Ibom was top on the list.
Akwa Ibom is a destination of choice in Nigeria, reckons
You have a standard facility, that’s why we are starting here.” Davido said.
That statement alone carries more weight and meaning than a compliment by global megastar. It serves to acknowledge that quality infrastructure and effective governance can attract global attention even in the entertainment industry.
Beyond that, his choice validates years of public investment in infrastructure and tourism development. The concert showed that when government creates an enabling environment, the creative sector naturally finds a home there.
The Godswill Akpabio International Stadium provided the perfect setting for the concert. Its world-class design, security, and accessibility symbolized the state’s progress and readiness to host major events.
That night, Uyo came alive as thousands of fans arrived from neighbouring states and beyond, hotels were fully booked, local transport operators worked overtime, and the streets buzzed with excitement as vendors, artisans,
and small businesses seized the opportunity.
The multiplier effect of tourism was on full display. As tourism scholar Richard Sharpley once observed that, “Every tourist dollar spent in a destination can circulate several times before it leaves the economy.”
Davido, who has toured cities across the world, commended Governor Umo Eno for maintaining stability and creating a safe, youthfriendly atmosphere.
In living to his billing as an epitome of compassion, Governor Umo Eno generously offered 15,000 complimentary tickets which opened the doors for countless young people to partake in the memorable moment of collective celebration.
Governor Eno’s approach to governance has consistently highlighted youth engagement and the creative industry as pillars of development. His ARISE Agenda aims to diversify Akwa Ibom’s economy beyond oil, placing emphasis on culture, tourism, and innovation.
Already, Uyo is fast emerging as
the tourism capital of Nigeria - a city of peace, beauty, and boundless promise. Governor Eno’s vision of growing Akwa Ibom beyond oil is unfolding through strategic investments in hospitality, infrastructure, and the creative economy.
The Ibom International Convention Centre, the 200-room Ibom Hotel, and the soon-to-be-unveiled ARISE Shopping City, all strategically located within the Udo Udoma business district, while the soon-to-be-unveiled ARISE Parkonce an erosion site all reflects the governor’s visionary approach to position Uyo as a thriving centre of enterprise and tourism.
With the investment in the aviation sector, the success of Ibom Air, and the serenity of the state, Uyo is positioning itself as the preferred destination for conferences, leisure, and cultural discovery.
The concert showed how a single event can ignite multiple layers of opportunity, from hospitality to logistics, from creativity to community pride.
James writes from Uyo
EKEMINI JAMES
Vehicles should be well maintained ...
Oroyo and Beauty In The Motherland Conference
In Praise of President Buhari
WThen 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.
how it transforms a woman’s mood,” she said. “But true beauty should remain when the makeup comes off. Our skin deserves products that understand it — that celebrate who we are. Beauty that remains after the makeup is gone. Our skin deserves products made with understanding, not imitation.”
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.
he Beauty in the Motherland Conference 2025, held at Eko Hotel, Lagos, brought together some of Africa’s most dynamic voices in the beauty industry — from local entrepreneurs and cosmetic formulators to international influencers, celebrities, and skincare experts — for a celebration of identity, innovation, and inclusivity.
Among the standout moments of the three-day conference was the constant buzz around the Oroyo corner, where U.S.-based and globally celebrated skin expert, Patricia Oroyo, founder of Oroyo Skincare, engaged visitors in conversations about self-care, skin health, and the evolving story of African beauty.
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.
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.
Though not an official speaker, her presence was impossible to miss.
The Oroyo booth became one of the conference’s most visited spaces — its clean, earth-toned aesthetics and elegant presentation reflecting the authenticity of the brand’s philosophy.
The conference theme, “A Celebration of African Beauty and Fashion Excellence,” resonated strongly with Oroyo’s message of authenticity and homecoming, after years of winning hearts abroad among women of diverse skin tones. Visitors lingered at her corner not just to try products but to connect with a deeper idea of what it means to be beautiful, confident, and unapologetically African.
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).
Attendees described the experience as “both soothing and inspiring,” drawn as much by the storytelling behind each product as by the glow and warmth of the founder herself.
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.
Reflecting on her transition from law to beauty entrepreneurship, Patricia shared what inspired her to create a brand centered on the unique needs of women with melanin-rich skin.
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.
“I’ve always been fascinated by how makeup can make a woman feel more confident. I’ve watched
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
Idris Adamu: Man of the Masses
Cby 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.
After 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.
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.
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.
Sylvester Idowu, Warri
Stop Ritual Attacks and Killings
The 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.
omrade Idris Adamu is a Kano- born secretary of NURTW in Nasarawa State. We need to encourage our leaders in all ramifications for their interest in the area of infrastructural development. I have come across some leaders who are only interested in how to squander the money entrusted in their custody. I have also seen leaders with unquestionable character. In the same vein, I have seen Comrade Idris Adamu, the current Secretary of NURTW in Nasarawa State, a man for whom I have so much respect. He is an advocate of the masses who has achieved unprecedented success in the previous year. He has organized football competitions where talented youth have exhibited their talent in Nasarawa State and its environs. At the football competition held at the popular Lafia Township Stadium, the competitors went home with fabulous prizes in various categories.
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
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EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU
CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
Anjorin Adeolu, Nasarawa State
With Friends Like This...
TComrade Adamu’s colleagues should emulate his gesture on youth development. He is also instrumental to the development of major roads in Nasarawa State, while he has also contributed meaningfully to the development of his primary constituency in Kano. Adamu made indelible marks in the area of education by purchasing GCE forms for the less privileged and destitute to further in their education. He has given hope to the hopeless and voice to the voiceless.
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN
MANAGING EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI
THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE
THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED
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GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU
THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED
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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI
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.
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI
SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com
he Epstein story has claimed another major victim, following Epstein’s suicide in a cell, Ghislaine Maxwell’s imprisonment and also Virginia Giuffre taking her own life although really only Giuffre could be considered a victim. The latest to have their life disrupted by this case is the now ex-prince Andrew, 8th in line for the Monarchy, who denies all of the accusations against him. Andrew, now just Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, has been stripped of all of the titles, honours, and privilege that come with being born in the right family.
Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia
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)
Retirement Reinvented and Deconstructed: GameChanging Strategies for Blissful Retirement
According to the African Pension Supervisor Association, “600 million of the 778 million working-age population in Africa are excluded from formal pension and social protection arrangements and face the grim prospect of living in extreme poverty for over 20 years after they are too old to work.”
The possibility of multi-dimensional Retirement poverty is real for over 600 million working-class people in the African continent, and that also includes over 60-70million working-age Nigerians who do not have active pension savings for their retirement to provide the necessary financial buffers they need in retirement and old age. This avoidable economic tsunami will become inevitable for many Africans in their old age after retirement, without a concerted effort to address the failure of systematic and institutionalized Retirement Planning for African burgeoning workforces in both formal and informal sectors of the economy.
The unfortunate stories of millions of public and private sector retirees on the streets across the globe, bemoaning the excruciating difficulty of meeting the various needs of retirement and old age with their meagre retirement savings, and millions of others living at the mercy of their children and family members, have become a regular news feature and headlines across Nigeria and the globe. If there is a phenomenon that even migration does not address, it is the challenge of poor and a lack of Retirement planning across all nations and labour jurisdictions.
These are compelling motivations for why Dr. Olayiwola Oladapo, a Retirement Planning innovation leader and expert, wrote the groundbreaking and call-to-action book titled “Retirement Reinvented and Deconstructed: Game-Changing Strategies for Blissful Retirement” to help address the many multi-dimensional requirements for effective retirement planning for anyone who is looking forward to having a great experience in retirement and old age. Retirement Reinvented and Deconstructed: Game-Changing Strategies for a Blissful Retirement.
Retirement is not your regular book on Retirement Planning but a bold and innovative reimagining of global principles, concepts, and practices of retirement planning through the groundbreaking Global 9-Pillar Retirement Planning Model. It is the A-to-Z guide to achieving a blissful retirement, no matter who you are or where you live or work. It serves as a blueprint for a fulfilling retirement. The book is an ideal guide to creating a practical plan and roadmap for the retirement you deserve. It is the essential manual for anyone seeking a memorable and blissful experience in their final years. The book is a radical and evolutionary reimagination of the
Ogun Partners EU on Solar Energy to Strengthen Healthcare Delivery
James Sowole in Abeokuta
In a bold step toward sustainable healthcare delivery, the Ogun State Government has launched the Nigeria Solar for Health Project, an initiative designed to provide clean, reliable, and renewable energy to health facilities across the state.
The event, held at Abeokuta, marked the official flag-off of the European Union (EU)-funded project.
The programme aimed to enhance healthcare delivery and strengthen local economies by deploying solar micro-grid systems to public health centres and nearby small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Speaking at the event, Governor Dapo Abiodun, who was represented by the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Dapo Okubadejo, described the project as “a milestone in our unwavering commitment to building a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future for our people.”
He said the initiative aligns perfectly with Ogun State’s ISEYA Development Agenda focusing on Infrastructure, Social Welfare and Wellbeing, Education, Youth Empowerment and Job Creation, and Agriculture and will further strengthen the administration’s drive to deliver people-centered governance.
“This project addresses a critical
gap by providing clean, renewable, and sustainable solar power to health facilities, across our state. It will ensure uninterrupted service delivery, particularly in rural communities where the need is most critical,” Abiodun said.
“With this intervention, our health centres will not only have light, they will have life.”
The governor emphasized that reliable electricity is essential for effective healthcare delivery, as power disruptions often lead to vaccine spoilage, delayed emergency procedures, and hindered medical operations.
He noted that the initiative would also promote environmental sustainability, reduce carbon emissions, and create jobs for young people through the training of solar technicians and maintenance teams.
He lauded the partnership between the European Union, NTU International, and the Government of Nigeria, describing it as a model for intergovernmental collaboration that prioritizes accountability, local ownership, and sustainability.
He added that under the project, 40 primary healthcare centres across Ogun’s 20 local government areas will be powered by solar energy, with nearby SMEs allowed to connect legally to the network at regulated, affordable rates to promote inclusive economic growth.
global principles, concepts, and practices of retirement planning through the innovative Global 9-Pillar Retirement Planning Model to address the need for planning retirement as a marathon process over a 30–35-year planning window.
The 9-Pillar Retirement Planning Model addresses the critical requirements for effective retirement planning, including the need for periodic personal objective assessment of retirement planning effectiveness, the need to plan for Physical, mental, social, and financial well-being in retirement. It also addresses the unique needs of women planning for their retirement against the odds of seven additional challenges they face in the process compared to men.
The model especially caters to the need for people to plan adequately and proactively for fulfilling purpose, dealing with 2,000 hours of idle time annually in retirement, in addition to creating and securing lasting legacies. The model recognizes the critical role of an enabling ecosystem and contributors that include the government, employers, the labour institutions, the retirement savings fiduciaries, and international development stakeholders in ensuring a successful retirement planning process. A full graphic representation of this model can be found on https://syaretire. tech/about.
The 9-Pillar Retirement Planning Model is Oladapo’s unique contribution to the body of knowledge and practice of Total Retirement planning and management. It has also
Court Jails Three Members of International Drug Cartel for Cocaine, Cannabis Trafficking
Wale Igbintade
JusticeMusa Kakaki of the Federal High Court in Lagos yesterday sentenced three members of an international drug cartel to five years’ imprisonment each for trafficking 17.90 kilograms of cocaine and 20.5 kilograms of cannabis sativa.
The convicts, Olashupo Michael Oladimeji, Muaezz Ademola Ogunbiyi, and Sola Adegoke, also known as Babashola Omoyele, were jailed after pleading guilty to a five-count amended charge filed against them by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
The court also ordered the final forfeiture of a Range Rover SUV and a Toyota Venza, said to have been used in concealing the drugs, to the Federal Government.
The NDLEA had arraigned the trio on Thursday, over an attempt to export 17.90 kilograms of cocaine through the Skyway Handling Company (SAHCO) Export Shed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos, on August 26, 2025.
They were also accused of unlawfully possessing 20.5 kilograms of cannabis sativa on September 4, 2025.
A fourth suspect, Adebisi Adebola Omoyele, believed to
be a member of the syndicate, is still at large.
The agency said the group was linked to an international criminal network with operatives in Dubai, the United Kingdom, Brazil, and Australia.
During the arraignment, prosecution counsel Mr. Abu Ibrahim informed the court of the amended charge, which was read to the defendants, and they all pleaded guilty.
The prosecution then reviewed the facts of the case and tendered exhibits, including the seized narcotics and related documents.
After reviewing the evidence, Justice Kakaki convicted the defendants as charged.
Defence counsel Chief Benson Ndakara, representing the first defendant, and Mr. O. N. Okuwobi, representing the second and third defendants, pleaded for leniency, describing their clients as first-time offenders who had shown remorse.
They urged the court to temper justice with mercy and consider an option of fine.
At the resumed hearing yesterday Justice Kakaki rejected the plea for a fine and sentenced each of the three convicts to five years’ imprisonment without an option of fine.
He also ordered the forfeiture of the two vehicles used in the crime to the Federal Government.
led to the development of innovative and registered trademarked concepts around retirepreneurship and who a retirepreneur is. Oladapo’s book on retirement is based on over 22 years of consulting, policy advisory, and conducting field-based ethnographic research and engagements with diverse stakeholders on retirement planning. He has worked with a diverse workforce audience, including individuals from the private, public, development, and informal sectors. The book also reflects numerous years of capacity-building efforts with senior leaders in the military and the organised private and public sectors.
The book is the A-Z of the multi-dimensional requirements for effective Retirement Planning beyond just financial planning, regardless of who you are or where you live or work. The book is the practical and perfect guide to developing a workable plan and roadmap for the retirement of your dream.
It received glowing endorsements from global, national business and thought leaders like Mr. Udom Inoyo, the ex-Vice Chairman of Exxon Mobil in Nigeria and the former President and Chairman of the Council of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM) Nigeria, Egnr. Adeleye Falade, the CEO/ MD of LNLG Brunei, Mr. Aderemi Atanda, the MD/ CEO of Remita and Chair of the Coordination Committee for the Fintech CEOs and Founders Forum, and Ms.Maureen Ideozu, Belbin Regional Representative in Nigeria
Their endorsements through a very inspirational foreword and thought thought-provoking personal testimonial are a validation of the strategic value of the book to the process of Retirement Planning for everybody desirous of a blissful and fulfilling retirement experience.
The production of the book was overseen by Mr. Adegbola Adesina, an international publishing consultant based in the United States and the CEO of Smarthands Consulting. He has been involved in the publication of 100 books covering various genres of human interests in Nigeria. His extensive experience as a reputable publisher, as the former Deputy Managing Director of the CSS group, and years of experience in senior publishing roles, as Chief Operating Officer at Odade-Lexis-Nexis and working with Spectrum Books, ensured that the book’s production met international standards.
To underscore the international relevance of the book to the global discourse on reinventing the retirement planning process and outcomes, the book was published by Lulu, the American leading print-on-demand publisher, and the ebook, soft and hard copy formats can be ordered on their links below: https://bit.ly/3FsQKSi; https://bit.ly/3DHLTw2
https://bit.ly/4kAYRMN
Hoping that the retirement phase will be great without a well-coordinated and deliberate plan is not a strategy but a phantom hope.
Retirement Reinvented and Deconstructed: Game-Changing Strategies for Blissful Retirement by Dr. Olayiwola Oladapo, an expert in Retirement Planning and Organizational Development, is a must-read book for everyone in the work phase of life as they plan for the inevitable phase of retirement and old age.
PLAC, Stakeholders Rally Support for Passage of Special Seat Bill
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
Ina bid to facilitate the passage of the Special Seats Bill for women in the National and state Assembly Houses, the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) has rallied various civil society organisations, including women groups to articulate an action plan that would help achieve the target.
The Special Seats Bill is an initiative meant to increase participation of women in the politics and governance of the country through allocation of extra seats for women in both the national and state Assemblies.
The bill seeks to provide one extra seat for women per state in the Senate and the House of Representatives and one extra seat in each of the State Houses of Assembly in the country. However, it was learnt that some senators have kicked against setting aside a senate seat per state for women, saying it would greatly impact on existing power structure.
Speaking at the Stakeholders Consultation and Communication Strategy meeting on the Passing of the Special Seats Bill held in Abuja , the Executive Director of PLAC, Mr. Clement Nwankwo said
developing a special advocacy plan became very important so as to persuade lawmakers to support the passage of the Special Seats Bill. Nwankwo said PLAC believes that that women could help the passage of the Bill through targeted advocacy mission to key stakeholders. He advised that campaigners for the bill should exercise some caution over their approach in order not to appear confrontational or threatening to the lawmakers.
On the reaction of stakeholders to the proposed legislation, especially members of the Senate, Nwankwo said some were against providing additional 37 senate seats for women as was contained in the Bill.
“The Senate wants just six women. I’m hoping that in the course of conversation, it will be possible to say seven women, because there was no discussion about FCT.
“So I’m hoping that we would achieve seven women in the Senate. But that’s only it wasn’t the entire Senate in that was at the meeting. It was a committee that has about 50 senators and 70 House members
CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY...
L-R: Chairman, Diatom Impact, Dr. Akintoye Akindele; Controller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Mr. Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, and First Vice-President Nigerian Medical Association, Dr. Benjamin Oluwatosin Olowojebutu, at the Donation of Sanitary Pads to all the Female Inmates at the National Headquarters of the NCoS in Abuja…recently
Onanuga: Tinubu’s Pardon Review Shows He Listens, Corrects Mistakes
Boluwatife
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has defended President Bola Tinubu’s review of the controversial prerogative of mercy list, saying the decision was not a sign of weakness but of strength, compassion, and accountability.
admit and correct mistakes.
Speaking in an interview on ARISE News’ ‘Prime Time,’ Onanuga described Tinubu as a leader who listens to the people and is never afraid to
“What Nigerians ought to have seen by now is that this President is not one who is afraid to reverse himself. If he feels he has made an error, he will admit it. He is human. He listens to the public,” Onanuga said.
He wakes up every morning to read all the newspapers, watch television, and understand what people are saying. So this is not weakness — it is strength. It shows that he can reappraise his actions and make
Owen Omogiafo Urges Africa to Step Up Energy Supply
A call for Africa’s inclusion on energy access received a boost at the just concluded 9th Edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII9), where Transcorp’s President/ Group Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Owen Omogiafo, spoke on the evolving nature of the global, "Energy Trilemma" during a high-level plenary session.
The discussion at the annual forum hosted in
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, focused on the imperative of maintaining energy security to power economic growth, including the AI revolution, while ensuring a sustainable energy future.
Omogiafo, who spoke alongside global energy leaders across Europe, the United States, the Middle East and Asia, on the topic:
“Board of Changemakers: The Energy Trilemma.”, said
Africa needs to improve its energy supply, and quickly too.
“I am from Nigeria, and my company is driving energy transformation. What we are looking at is not so much about whether we are transiting; it is creating greater access to energy for all. The gap is huge, and we all need to be conscious of it in energy conversations,” she said, highlighting Africa’s
energy deficiency challenge.
“It will interest you to know that about 70 or 80 per cent of people with no access to electricity are in Africa, which is very disturbing, I believe. Today, the world is concerned about immigration. The people who are migrating are not migrating because they hate their homes, or because they hate their families, but because they feel they have to.”
Ereke Day: Celebration of Culture, Unity, National Pride Holds in Ikenne-Remo
Bennett Oghifo
The ancient town of Ikenne-Remo is set to host one of the most anticipated cultural celebrations in Nigeria, Ereke Day 2025, held on Saturday, November 1st, 2025. This year’s edition promises to be a landmark celebration of heritage, youth empowerment,
and community progress, attracting dignitaries, cultural icons, and visitors from across the nation and the diaspora.
Organised by the Ikenne Development Association (IDA), this year’s edition, themed “Unity in Culture, Strength in Heritage”, will celebrate the town’s rich traditions, creative enterprise, and growing
influence as a cultural and tourism hub in Southwest Nigeria.
In a major highlight, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to send a Presidential Delegation to the event, a move organisers describe as “a historic recognition of Ereke’s place in Nigeria’s cultural evolution.” The delegation’s attendance
underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to promoting grassroots cultural heritage and community development.
Also expected are the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, prominent traditional rulers, business leaders, and illustrious indigenes from home and abroad.
Jumia Deepens Digital Retail with 'Black Friday' Deals
Jumia Nigeria has announced its 'Black Friday' campaign, thus intensifying e-commerce adoption, while improving consumers’ access to trusted retail brands.
The month-long customer engagement initiative, tagged “Do Pass Yourself" assured shoppers exclusive discounts, and immersive shopping experience across fashion, beauty, electronics, home, and more.
The firm stated that the initiative anchored on valuedriven incentives, wider brand partnerships, and enhanced delivery efficiency, underscoring its strategy to consolidate growth within e-commerce sector.
Chief Executive Officer of Jumia Nigeria, Temidayo Ojo informed that the company had spent over a decade in building the shopping festival, positioning self as a key player in local digital marketplace.
adjustments when necessary.”
Onanuga explained that the public outrage that followed the initial release of the pardon list was largely focused on specific cases, particularly that of Mariam Sanda, who was sentenced to death for killing her husband.
“Most of the criticisms were coming from the case of Mariam Sanda,” he said. “Even the revised list still contained some drug offenders who were granted clemency, not pardon. In her case too, it was clemency.”
He described the President as a compassionate leader, citing Sanda’s case as one that evoked empathy because of her young children.
“Her case was complicated by the fact that she has two children. The father is gone,
and the mother is in jail. Who takes care of them?” Onanuga said. “It was a crime of passion, not premeditated. Anything can happen between a husband and wife in the heat of an argument.”
Onanuga stressed that the President’s action did not amount to condoning crime but reflected a humane outlook.
“The President is a compassionate person. His decisions often show where he is coming from — his personal philosophy and humanity,” he said.
Responding to criticisms that the government acted only after public pressure, Onanuga dismissed claims of inconsistency, saying Tinubu’s review was part of a deliberate process to strengthen the justice system.
Makinde, Zulum to Get Media Safety Ambassador Awards
The Media Centre for Promotion of Safety Awareness (MCPoSA), an organisation dedicated to advocacy campaign for the Safety of Journalists and other workers, is billed to honour Prof. Babagana Zulum of Borno State and Engr. Oluwaseyi Makinde of Oyo State, as part of this year's special effects to mark UNESCO's International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists (IDEI), otherwise known as Journalists Safety Day.
The event holds in Lagos, next Tuesday.
A statement jointly signed by a member of MCPoSA's Board of Trustees (BoT), Mr. Mack Ogbamosa and its Executive Director, Dr. Chinyere Amaechi, disclosed that the Centre marks Journalists Safety Day every
November since 2015, in collaboration with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation ( UNESCO), the Nigeria Union of Journalists ( NUJ), and the Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria (ISPON). It stated that the Governors were being honoured for their media- friendly dispositions and their commitment to the safety and security of all workers in their respective dormain.
According to the statement, “the day which is usually marked as a one-day symposium on issues of safety of journalists and freedom of expression, as its 10th anniversary special effect, has identified the two governors' outstanding commitment to the wellbeing of journalists, hence the prestigeous honour.
Enome
Omolabake Fasogbon
REWARDING LOYAL CUSTOMERS...
Fayemi Harps on ECOWAS Reform to Tackle Poverty, Insecurity, Others in Sub-region
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
Former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has called for urgent reform of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), insisting that the challenges of poverty, inequality, governance deficits, and insecurity in the West African region cannot be effectively addressed by the regional bloc in its current form.
Speaking in Abuja at the second edition of the African Political Square
and the Experts meeting on Alternative Futures for ECOWAS at 50 - jointly organised with the African Leadership Centre (ALC) in collaboration with Codesria and Wathi, Fayemi said, “Clearly, the current state of the regional body underscores the need for deep reflection on how ECOWAS can move beyond being an elite-driven institution to one that truly represents and serves its people.
“The challenges of poverty, inequality, governance
New Documentary Exposes Rising Threat of Gambling Addiction in Nigeria
Sunday Ehigiator
A new documentary titled ‘Behind the Bet’ screened recently in Lagos, has spotlighted the growing menace of gambling addiction in Nigeria.
Hosted by the Responsible Gaming Against Addiction Foundation, the event brought together key figures from the medical, entertainment, and gaming regulation sectors. The screening was moderated by actor and filmmaker, Ayodeji Adejumo.
Speaking at the event, one of the producers and Programme Director of the foundation, Seun Abimbola, said the documentary was inspired by the urgent need to confront the rising but often ignored problem of gambling addiction in the country.
Abimbola said.
deficits, and insecurity cannot be effectively addressed by ECOWAS in its current form.
“There is an urgent need for a new, citizen-centred approach that responds to the real concerns of ordinary West Africans, rather than focusing solely on the priorities of political leaders.”
Fayemi, who is the Co-
founder of Amanda Institute for Policy and Leadership Advancement, said: “It is also my hope that a key part of our discussion will focus on security and the role of the military in addressing instability in the region. It is now evident that traditional military strategies alone are inadequate in tackling
the complex threats posed by insurgent and terrorist groups.”
He decried that “Many of these groups are deeply embedded within communities and even, in some cases, within the military itself. What is needed is a more sophisticated intelligence-based approach,
combined with efforts to address the underlying social and economic drivers of insecurity. We need a comprehensive human security strategy that deals with issues of poverty, inequality, and governance failures, which extremist groups continue to exploit.”
LASG Demolishes Over 200 Illegal Shanties, Dislodges Criminals
Sunday Ehigiator
public safety.
The Lagos State Government has demolished more than 200 illegal shanties and dislodged suspected criminal hideouts around Apapa Road, Ijora, and Costain Under Bridges, in a renewed drive to restore environmental order and
He revealed that the foundation runs a toll-free helpline, 080000GETHELP (0800004384357), for individuals seeking assistance, and also offers an online addiction test via its website, www.responsiblegaming. africa, to help users assess their level of dependency.
Abimbola added that the foundation’s mission goes beyond awareness creation to include intervention, counselling, and advocacy against the stigma surrounding gambling-related mental health challenges.
“The whole idea of the documentary is to echo a public outcry, to create awareness and to help people understand that gambling addiction is real and can be treated,” he said.
“Unlike alcohol or drug addiction, gambling addiction is not visible. Many people who suffer from it don’t even know they’re addicted because there’s no clear framework or social guideline to identify or address it,”
Fidelis David in Akure
Residents of several riverine communities in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State have petitioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, over alleged
Polygon Labs has announced that Polygon PoS, the premiere blockchain for payments and Real World Assets (RWA), has been selected by Flutterwave, Africa’s largest payments infrastructure that has processed over $40bn in
In a statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, LASTMA, Adebayo Taofiq, the largescale clearance operation, coordinated through multiple state agencies, was said to have been led by the Special Adviser to the Governor on
Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa.
The exercise aimed at reclaiming and sanitising key public spaces reportedly taken over by illegal occupants and criminal elements.
During the enforcement, operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) made a
shocking discovery, a dummy gun and other dangerous weapons hidden within makeshift structures beneath Costain Bridge. Authorities said the find reinforced the need for the crackdown, which targeted criminal dens and unlawful encroachments along major transport corridors.
incessant killings, brutality, and destruction of property by officers of the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB), Igbokoda.
In a Save Our Soul (SOS) letter dated October 28, 2025, and made available to journalists in Akure yesterday, the communities
transaction volume to date, to serve as the default blockchain network to power its new cross-border payments product. The partnership positions Polygon's infrastructure as foundational to payment flows globally, and marks a
under the aegis of Ilaje Omuro Worldwide Connect, in collaboration with the Ilaje Oil Rich Youths Vanguard, accused the naval personnel led by Commander Usman of terrorising residents of Obejedo, Obe Adun, and Obe Nla communities.
According to the petition signed by the association’s Spokesperson, Comrade Tunde Omobone, the naval operatives’ actions have allegedly led to the loss of lives, destruction of livelihoods, and forced displacement of many indigenes.
watershed moment for realworld stablecoin adoption in emerging markets.
Flutterwave will begin a phased rollout of Polygon, starting with a pilot programme for select Flutterwave for Business customers in 2025. The solution will be made fully available to all Flutterwave for Business and Send App users in 2026 significantly boosting remittances and facilitating even more crossborder payments.
L-R: Category Manager, Noodles, Golden Penny Foods Limited, Ayokunle Iyiola; HOD, Consumer and Business Dept, FCCPC, Akam Emmanuel Humphrey; Surveillance and Investigation Dept, FCCPC, Odion Oyelowo; Principal Legal Officer, LSLGA, Oladipupo Ajayi, and Brand Manager, Ball Foods, Golden Penny Foods Limited, Caius Johnson-Bezi, at the 2nd raffle draw of the Golden Penny 65th Anniversary Buy & Win Promo held…recently
TOURISM DEVELOPMENT ON THEIR MINDS...
Oyedele: Capital Gain Tax Will Not Erode Nigeria's Competitiveness
The Chairman, Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, has clarified that the proposed introduction of a 30 per cent tax rate on capital gains from the disposal of shares would not deter foreign investors or erode the country's competitiveness.
Addressing investor concerns, he explained that many developed countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, and South
Africa, apply CGT and still remained attractive investment destinations.
He said, “Competitiveness depends on overall returns and risk factors — not the absence of CGT."
Oyedele also clarified that Nigeria was not tripling CGT for foreign investors, stressing that both local and foreign investors benefit from exemptions based on thresholds and reinvestment.
He said, “Tax applies only where those thresholds are exceeded without
Kola Karim Urges Nigeria to Target Five Million Barrels Daily
Chairman of Shoreline Group, Mr. Kola Karim, at the just-concluded ninth edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, delivered a powerful reflection on leadership, energy, and Africa’s development future.
Speaking with Arise News Channel, Karim emphasised that Nigeria’s ambition in the oil and gas sector must be bolder, urging the nation to raise its target production to five million barrels per day by 2030, not three million.
Karim, who leads an industrial conglomerate focused on energy and infrastructure investments across Sub-Saharan Africa, described leadership as “the very core of globalisation,” stressing that both public and private sectors must share responsibility for societal
progress.
“We often assume that leadership should concern itself solely with the public sector,” he said. “In reality, the social contract must be upheld by both public and private sectors, because true leadership is defined by the extent to which one is willing to serve—regardless of the arena
He explained that the relationship between business and community, what he calls the “social contract”, was essential to peace and progress.
Drawing from his company’s experience, he cited the Niger Delta as a model for how engagement and mutual respect can sustain longterm business operations.
“Our social contract with the communities we engage in is what helps us build and run a successful, safe, secure business,” he noted.
reinvestment. Labelling this as a punitive tax on foreign investors is misleading."
He pointed out that investors in Nigeria’s capital market have earned over 100 per cent average returns in dollar terms since May 2023, through capital gains, dividends, and currency appreciation.
He added that the ongoing tax reform aims to promote fairness, progressivity, and broaden participation in the
capital market.
He said, “This is an opportunity to attract more investments, especially by retail investors, away from gambling and virtual asset trading."
In his presentation on impact of CGT on the capital market, he said CGT on Shares lower business risk, increase harmonisation and progressivity.
He said the policy objectives were to reduce burden of tax
on business entry or startup especially input VAT on assets.
This, he said, would also lower cost and enhance operating cash flows particularly lower CIT rate, and no minimum tax on capital.
He said the policy will harmonise with income tax to make CGT progressive similar to the practice in many countries
This, he further noted, would curb arbitrage loophole by local investors and BEPS by foreign investors.
According to him, the current regime has flat CGT rate of 10 per cent while gains are isolated and taxed, adding that capital losses are not relieved for tax purposes. He explained that in the new regime, businesses are taxed based on payer's income band and rate like US, UK, Australia, SA, Ghana, Brazil, among others, as well as taxed on a net of gains and losses.
PenCom Inaugurates Board of Trustees of Pension Industry Health Care
The Director General, National Pension Commission (PenCom), Ms. Omolola Oloworaran,
yesterday inaugurated the Board of Trustees of the Pension Industry Health Care Initiative (PenCare) to enhance pensioners’ access to affordable and
quality healthcare under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).
The board is chaired by the pioneer Director General of PenCom, Muhammed
Ogbuku Dissociates Self from Media Reports Attributing Purported Arrest to Governor Diri
Blessing Ibunge
The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Chief Samuel Ogbuku, yesterday, dissociated himself from a recent report in the media attributing his rumoured
arrest to the Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri.
In a release signed by Dr. Willie Etim, S.A Media to the MD of NDDC, Ogbuku condemned in very strong terms the news report attributed to
a former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), which insinuated a rift between himself and the Governor, and cautioned that there was no rivalry in the APC family in Bayelsa State.
YABATECH Don Calls for Stronger Link Between Academia, Industry, Govt
Funmi Ogundare
A lecturer in the Department of Computer Science, Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), Dr. Victor Adeleye Haastrup, yesterday, called on the federal government to institutionalise operational research (OR) as a strategic tool for national planning and governance transformation.
Haastrup, who made this known at the 21st inaugural lecture of the college which he delivered, titled, 'Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice', emphasised that Nigeria’s persistent disconnect between academia, industry, and government remains a major obstacle to sustainable development.
Ahmad.
PenCare is a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) effort between the commission and licensed pension operators to deliver healthcare to retirees. President Bola Tinubu is expected to officially launch the initiative in November.
Speaking at the inauguration in Abuja, Oloworaran described the health initiative as a watershed moment that places the nation on the path toward a “pension system that not only safeguards the financial security of workers but also protects their health, dignity, and well-being in retirement”. She said over 20,000 retirees are expected to benefit from the first phase of the programme.
She said, “We are inaugurating hope. We are setting in motion a new chapter in Nigeria's journey toward inclusive, compassionate, and globally competitive social security.
James Emejo in Abuja
L-R: Former Director General, National Council for Arts and Culture, Segun Runsewe; former Minister of Culture and Tourism, Frank Ogbuewu, and Director General, National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism, Abisoye Fagade, at the 2025 ANJET conference and awards held in Lagos…recently
James Emejo in Abuja
IHK Giessen-Friedberg Lauds Lai Mohammed's Role in Strengthening Nigeria-German Cooperation
Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja
The Chief Executive Officer, IHK Giessen-Friedberg Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Dr. Matthias Leder, has applauded the role of Nigeria’s former Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, in helping its organisation expand the quality and reach of vocational training in Nigeria.
This, he said, resulted in measurable impacts on youth employment, technical education, and business competitiveness.
Leder's commendation came during a virtual press conference preceding the arrival of a delegation of IHK Giessen-Friedberg on November 2 for a two-week visit to Nigeria.
He stated that since 2005,
IHK Giessen-Friedberg worked closely with Nigerian chambers and associations to expand the quality and reach of vocational training, with measurable impacts on youth employment, technical education, and business competitiveness.
"This enduring relationship has grown significantly in recent years—thanks to the pivotal role played by Nigeria’s former Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, whose leadership helped elevate the cooperation to a new strategic level
"Over the past two years alone, IHK Giessen-Friedberg has undertaken two official missions annually to Nigeria. "Similarly, Alhaji Lai Mohammed has twice participated in Giessen’s prestigious international
B2B conference, “The World Meets in Giessen”, first as a keynote speaker and later as a panelist.
"These engagements have deepened the mutual understanding between both nations and opened new avenues for investment, trade, and skills transfer," he said.
Leder reaffirmed IHK Giessen-Friedberg's longstanding commitment to strengthening vocational training, institutional development, and private sector cooperation with Nigeria.
"This follows two decades of sustained partnership between the IHK and key Nigerian institutions in promoting youth skills development, entrepreneurship, and international business collaboration," he said.
Town Union Leaders Decry Demolition of Igbo Properties, Assets in Lagos
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia
The demolition of properties and assets owned by Igbos in Lagos has continued to attract condemnations and anger, with groups and individuals faulting the rationale behind it.
In its reaction, the Association of Igbo Town Unions(ASITU) expressed disappointment with the federal government's indifference and "ominous silence" on the plight of Igbo property owners in Lagos.
The leadership of ASITU,
made the association's stance known at a press conference in Umuahia.
They described the demolition policy as discriminatory, callous, and done without due process, adding that FG has no reason to stay aloof given that the action of Lagos State government was a threat to national unity.
President of ASITU, Chief Emeka Diwe, who addressed journalists, alleged that the systematic demolitions had commenced in February with the destruction of trading plazas owned by Igbos at
Ebute Ero market.
He stated that the demolitions shifted to the Trade Fair Complex in September, "with much intensity as agents of the Lagos State government continued the destruction of Igbo livelihoods and economic survival."
"Our people in Lagos are in agony. They are suffering; they are crying," Diwe said, adding that the economic wound inflicted on Ndigbo "is so painful and we want the world to hear our cry, we want the world to feel our pain".
World Leaders, Education Ministers to Converge in Abu Dhabi Over Global Learning Crisis
Omolabake Fasogbon
Amid deepening learning challenges, education ministers, innovators and leaders across the globe are set to converge in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates to chart reforms at the World Schools Summit.
The summit holding in November, at Yasmina British Academy, will unite more than 1,000 education leaders, policymakers and technology partners to reshape learning strategies for 21st-century's relevance and on harnessing education to build leadership for a better world.
Organisers of the summit, T4 Education, Aldar Education and the Emirates Foundation, with support from the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF), stated
that the initiative comes amid growing concern that millions of children particularly in Africa and low-income regions risk being left behind by outdated curricula and weak digital infrastructure. In a recent World Bank assessment, over 70 percent of 10-year-olds in developing nations cannot read and comprehend a simple story, a situation said to be worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Speaking on the summit, Founder of T4 Education and the World Schools Summit, Vikas Pota, warned that the world stands at a critical crossroads, where failure to act on education could further fuel global instability.
He said, "We must take urgent action to halt runaway climate change,
adapt as AI revolutionises our economies, promote peace in the face of destructive conflicts, and tackle the most enduring inequalities.
“A better world is possible, but only if leaders from across the planet, from governments to businesses, NGOs, academia, and tech, recognise that at the heart of all these crucial questions lies education. I am proud to be bringing these leaders together at the summit, as I invite participants from Nigeria and around the world to join us.”
CHANGE OF NAME
I formerly known and addressed as James Ayotunde Olawale now wish to be known and addressed as Ayotunde Olawale. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.
Ifeanyi Aneke: Being First Child Comes with Burden Of Not Wanting to Stray
Growing up as the first of five children in a disciplined home in Enugu, Managing Director of Lights and Heights Holding Limited, Ifeanyi Aneke, learnt early that leadership begins with responsibility. As the eldest, he understood that every action could influence those who looked up to him, a lesson that would later shape his values and leadership style. Today, as a tech entrepreneur and family man, Aneke says the desire not to stray still guides his decisions. Beyond boardrooms and innovation, he reminds himself that family means everything, the anchor that keeps him grounded in an ever-demanding business world. The entrepreneur also speaks about the inspiration behind his company’s recently launched StoneCircle, a new safety and community management app under its tech subsidiary Limestone. Designed to enhance personal safety, improve estate management, and foster neighbourhood collaboration, StoneCircle aims to redefine how Nigerians experience security and community living.
brings the excerpts:
Tellushowyourupbringingandyourearlyexperience shaped your value and approach to leadership in today’s competitive business environment?
I grew up in Enugu, Nigeria, in a family of seven: my dad, mom, and five kids. I’m the first of them all. The first child, and that automatically put me in a leadership situation. My dad was a very strict disciplinarian. So, I’ve had to grow up in an environment that required a lot of discipline. And, you know, that’s values being learnt, which are some of the things we’re talking about now. So, I think to a large extent, I’ve always been trying to be like the role model for the family, being the first child and trying to lead all of those behind me. Being the first child, I must agree that it does contribute to the burden of knowing that you are the first sheep in the line of other sheep passing. If you stray, everyone will most likely stray. So that definitely contributes to some of the leadership skills I exhibit today.
What role has your family played in your career journey and how do you balance the demand for leadership with maintaining strong family connections?
It is an ongoing struggle, I would say, but it’s one that we will keep improving on. It’s something that I have to always remind myself that, at the end of the day, family is the most important thing. Yeah, it’s an ongoing struggle, is what I would say.
How do you unwind and keep burnouts at bay?
I’m kind of a nerd, in a way, so the kind of things that excite me are, I watch movies, right? It used to be mainly foreign movies, but lately I started enjoying a lot of YouTube movies these days. Omoni Oboli does really good movies on YouTube. Yeah, so I do watch movies. I’m a writer as well, so I like good stories. So, I read as well. Yeah, those are kind of the things that I try to unwind with. And sometimes I try to get out there and meet with friends. I used to do a lot of football before, but now, I’m trying to get back into the game. I don’t support any club, unfortunately. I used to support Chelsea a long time ago, because I had friends that were around then that were supporting Chelsea. But football is not something I’m passionate about. Unfortunately, I watch Nigerian matches, but any time I watch a Nigerian match, they lose. So, as a patriot, I stopped watching so that we could win.
In your view, what defines great leadership today, and how do you nurture that culture among your team at LimeStone?
We do have a couple of core values in light and height. Limestone, being a subsidiary of light and height, adopts the same core values. And I think it’s actually 12 of them. One of them is what I will just mention, because I think it sums it all up. And that is ownership. I believe ownership is the most fundamental leadership principle any leader should have. And what ownership means is that you understand that this belongs to you and you’re responsible for making sure that it works. That’s responsibility. And so the story I like to tell is a story about a woman. Her child is sick, and it’s raining and the car has broken down, but the child is very sick and the child might die. That woman understands that she owns the responsibility of saving that child. She can’t say, “it’s raining so there’s nothing I can do.” She can’t say, the car is broken down, there’s nothing I can do. A real mother would shout the entire neighbourhood, down till someone comes to pick her up to take the child to the hospital. Or take an umbrella and carry that child and walk in the middle of the night to find a solution. Ownership is about understanding that everything rests on you doing the very best you need to do to make sure that something works, whatever that is. So that to me is the very fundamental core
say, let me put it this way. Limestone is a technology company that has built StoneCircle, Stone Community and StoneCircle and Stone Security, which is a community management set of apps that is used to really help people to stay safe and also to be able to manage their finances better. From there we also have StoneCircle, which we recently launched. StoneCircle is our play in the BTC market. It is an app that allows people to be able to stay safe. Once you download the app, you will be able to use it to record events like incident reporting. If you have an incident, you can also raise a panic and then in your circles,
you will be notified about that incident, and they can come to your aid immediately. It’s also a companion app for people who are living in residential communities. You can use it independently, but you can also use it to interact with your communities if you are living in a residential community.
As a security expert, how do you assess personal and community security in Nigeria, and what’s the biggest gap? I think there’s a very big gap with our incident response system in Nigeria. It’s almost non-existent. We don’t have a functional incident response thing. If you go to more developed countries, you’d hear people say 911, they call 911 and then immediately in a few minutes someone is there to save you. We don’t have that, a real functional one in Nigeria. StoneCircle is our own way of innovating around the limitations of what we have. It makes it easy for you to raise a panic,
Ifeanyi Aneke: Family Means Everything to Me
to call your own 911, but get people that are around you to come in to rescue you in that situation.
What are the key features and the functionalities of StoneCircle?
One of the key features that I’ve seen people love a lot about stoneCircle is the moments feature. the moments feature allows people to capture incidents that are happening around them and then post it on what we call their moments. anybody that is around that area or that is following them would get to see those incidents. Initially, it was originally released as something that would help people to post security incidents around them, but people are beginning to use that to post other kinds of moments as well. during the period, we are running this internally. that’s one of the key features, moments. there are also chats as well; with stoneCircle, people can create a circle and chat with people in their circle, but you can also chat individually with any other person that you have within your space. Our chats are end-to-end encrypted, so there’s pure security implementation in the mix to make sure privacy is protected. Beyond that, we now have the panic feature, which is the very center thing that we’re talking about. the panic feature allows you to raise incidents when you have a problem, when you’re having an incident. say someone is knocking on your door in the middle of the night, or you’re being kidnapped, or whatever is the security incident you’re currently having. It could be a medical incident as well. If you’re having a heart attack, or there is any incident that requires emergency, you can use that. Or there’s a fire incident, or even a flood. any incident that you’re having that requires the attention of people, you can use the panic alert feature to raise that. this panic alert feature is not just raising an alarm; it’s sending an exact pin location you are in the world to everybody in your circle. so for instance, if someone raises a panic here, everybody who is receiving that panic would first of all need to ring their phone, so they would know that so-and-so person is having this incident. But they will also know the exact location where you are, where you’re having that incident. so it kind of makes the whole thing easier. In fact, in my opinion, it is way better than making a phone call, like the 911 thing.
Because when you call someone and it’s 911, you have to tell the person where you are. and that, when you have an emergency, isn’t the best time; we are very coherent. Imagine trying to describe your location when someone is knocking on your door and you think he’s a criminal. so it really solves, removes the entire barrier in the incident reporting, and makes the whole lot easier by using these technologies we talked about. the last one there is now the community chat part I talked about. so you integrate with communities. you can use that to pay for your dues in your community, or you can use that to take care of anything that the community needs. you can raise complaints and do any community interaction required. raise access requests to allow someone to come into the community and things like that.
There are many safety and community apps available today. What sets StoneCircle and the Limestone family app apart?
One of the things that I think is really different from how we have built this app is that a lot of other security apps that you will see out there are things that just sit there, and you would have to remember to use them at any time. We built this in such a way that it is part of your everyday life. and it’s all-encompassing. It’s not something that when you have an incident, you don’t want a situation where you have to start remembering. stoneCircle is something you use every day. you use that to capture moments, watch other people’s moments, and chat with people. so, when you have a security incident, you must remember to use it. In addition to that, is also the fact that stoneCircle is all-encompassing. It has a couple of other things working with it. today, we’re integrating residential communities. tomorrow there could be other things we’re adding to it. the design that we have is such that it’s a system that continues to grow and become an all-encompassing solution for every engineer.
Beyond private sector innovations in security, how can government and regulators play a stronger role in building safer, more connected communities in Nigeria?
I think there’s a lot of gap in that area, in terms of how the government is really trying to tackle security
So, I’ve had to grow up in an environment that required a lot of discipline. And, you know, that’s values being learnt, which are some of the things we’re talking about now. So, I think to a large extent, I’ve always been trying to be like the role model for the family, being the first child and trying to lead all of those behind me. Being the first child, I must agree that it does contribute to the burden of knowing that you are the first sheep in the line of other sheep passing
in Nigeria. security needs to be both proactive and responsive. you need both sides. you need to set infrastructure in place to make sure that you are disincentivising security incidents, but you want to be able to respond when the eventuality of any of them occurring. In these two areas, there are gaps. there are things that governments can do. We need infrastructure in place. stoneCircle is available to partner with the governments to be able to help bridge that infrastructure gap. Because what we’ve built is really something that, as I’ve explained, can help solve incident reporting scenarios. and there are a couple of governments we’re already speaking to at different stages, trying to see how we can integrate it into what they have and build that infrastructure of reporting incidents, and also being able to use that to understand what is going on around their community. so I think those are gaps that we can work with them to cover.
Given the sensitivity of security-related data, what measures has Limestone implemented to guarantee user privacy and protect its platform? this is something that we have at the very core of the offering that we have. We built this from the ground up to make sure that user data is respected and protected. so we are doing what we call an end-to-end encryption of user data. We don’t even get to see the communication that is going on within the platform. everything is encrypted. If you send a message or raise a panic or anything, it is encrypted from your device before it is sent across the wire to the other device. there’s no man in the middle, even Limestone, who can see what that data is. that’s one thing that we’re doing. But in addition to that, we also have a lot of a clear privacy policy that explains to users what is obtainable and then allow them to opt out at any point in time when they want to opt out. Like a user can say, hey, I want my data wiped, and we’ll honor those immediately.
We don’t sell your data to any third party. We don’t even have that data to sell in the first place. privacy is something that we are very keen on, and we’re also compliant with the Nigerian data protection regulation (Ndpr) regulations at the very basic level. Just for clarity, the notion of if a user asks for data to be wiped, you also comply with that. Of course, if there’s a court order, we are responsible citizens. We’ll have to honour a court order. However, the way it works is that the customer is our customer. If we receive an instruction, in fact, you can go to the app and say you want to delete your account, and we’ll have to delete your account. However, if a court order says that we should provide data to them, and there’s an order from the court, we obviously would have to honour that. But if we have lost the data because the user has already deleted it, of course there’s nothing we can do about that. But remember also, the data we’re even talking about now is not the conversation the user has, because we don’t even have access to that. We’re talking about maybe your profile picture, your name, your personal and family information. that is your profile. the geo-location and all of that, is also encrypted. We don’t keep that local. yeah, so that’s not sitting with us.
Who are your primary targets for StoneCircle, and tell us about your broader suite of products? the audience is really everybody who needs security, right? and we all do. so it’s everyone. right now, you need a smartphone to use this. Very soon, there might not be a need for data on that smartphone with zero rating we’re working on. and we’re also speaking on trying to see how we can bring this to future phones as well. that’s down the line with ussd implementation. so it’s really everybody. It’s every Nigerian that we’re targeting for this.
Have you partnered with any stakeholders, security agencies or community organisations to strengthen the adoption and impact of your product?
yes, certainly. We have a couple of private security firms that are under partnership right now that we’re speaking to. there are certain things that we’re planning, some of which I can’t discuss now because of obvious reasons. We have conversations around some level of partnership where they can begin to provide some extra features on the app, or rather, some extra services on the app. and those could be paid. and then we’re also speaking to government bodies, like I mentioned, to help with that incident reporting thing. If someone is raising a fire alarm, the fire service is notified, and they can come to know exactly where the fire is and things like that. so those are ongoing conversations. some of them, we have already put pen to paper, like the private firms. But a lot of the government ones, we’re still speaking to them. We haven’t started all that yet.
With Nigeria increasingly embracing digital transformation, what future trends do you see shaping community safety and technology adoption in the next three to five years?
I think the major trend really driving a lot of adoption right now is artificial intelligence. I think we’re going to see a whole lot more about aI integration into technology in the coming months and years. We in Limestone, we are at the very forefront of this. We are using aI in stone Circle today to be able to manage our incidents to our third party, to our subsidiary. aI is also being used to make sure that the community engagements that we have are also protected. For instance, we’re making sure that we’re monitoring the kind of moments that are posted, for instance, to prevent wrong things being posted on the platform.
Tell us about your background in security and why should the public trust a product that’s coming from you?
I have a very long career in information technology and information security. I have worked for a lot of companies, way before even starting Light on High, Limestone and all. the last company I worked for was Microsoft, where I was working. I was the cloud solution architect working with Microsoft, what I call the high-potential customers in the Middle east and africa.
so, these are like the Jumias, the sterling Bank, some of these top customers. and my job at the time was helping them craft their cloud strategy. and you know cloud is all about security, right? you’re talking about reimagining how you secure these infrastructures as you move them to the cloud. and so, I do have a whole lot of knowledge and experience, not just in security, but in designing secure applications that are compliant and that are also useful to users. Because one thing that is very important is that when you design a secure system, it has to have a human element to it as well. Because if you design a system and it’s super secure, but then the humans are struggling with being able to adopt it, you will struggle. a good example is having a password, insisting that your password should be 20 characters. If you do that, users would write it down on a piece of paper and paste it on their laptops. then you don’t have security anymore because now the password is visible for anybody to see. also, before Microsoft, I worked with a couple of companies. I worked at Fidelity Bank. I worked in the stock exchange as part of application development for about five years. so, I do have all of those experiences during systems like this, way before now.
Finally, what’s next for Limestone?
We are having conversations on some of the things that we can do to be able to get outside the country. We definitely are looking at expansion beyond Nigeria. so it’s kind of two sides. We’re looking at the first vertical integration of adding more features to the app. there are a couple of things we haven’t added yet. some of them are requested by customers. some of them are things that we’ve seen that we know the market wants and we’re going to be testing that to confirm that what we are thinking is there. so it’s a bunch of features we are going to be adding to the product in the coming weeks and months. But also, going beyond Nigeria is something we are very open to, and we are exploring that as well.
Aneke
Abuse of ‘Commission’
“WHAT is the criteria for…?” Get it right: (singular)criterion and criteria (plural). So, what are the criteria for…?
“Rumble in the ‘Desert’: ‘Joshua needs confident (confidence) to over come (overcome)…”
“We invite you to the commissioning ceremony (We invite you to the inauguration) on“RepsWednesday….” (Reps’) minority crisis: PDP torn between devil and deep blue sea” This way: between the devil and the deep blue sea (fixed/ stock idiomatic expression that should not be altered).
“Banks in last minute (last-minute) rush to meet new lending ratio”
“Independence: Onitsha Main Market, other markets to be shutdown (shut down) in Anambra”
“Kebbi invests N4bn on (in) new settlements infrastructure”
“Zimbabwe opposition lawmakers walk out on president” Either Zimbabwe’s opposition or Zimbabwean opposition
“Recent statistics from the Nigerian Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) indicate that hundreds of Nigerians are presently (sic) in (on) death row in some countries….”
“There should be proper legal assistance to (for) our citizens accused of trafficking….”
“…if any of its citizens is properly tried or convicted or (for) any offense abroad”
“Payback period is between 3-10 years.” (Full-page advertisement by Access Bank) More than banking: between 3 and 10 years or from 3-10 years.
“Woman stabs 2 months (months’) old or 2-month-old baby”
“Police uncover fake hospital in Edo, nabs
(why?) killer of 3 policemen”
Now, a special report: “He said he does (did) not know, that the urge comes to him just like that….”
“It is designed to nurture grassroot (grass- roots) talents and future football stars for the State (sic) and the Nation.”
“The Football Academy will be commissioned (inaugurated/auspicated) by his Excellency….”
“SuperSport to view (air, broadcast or televise) IAAF World Championship live”
“As at press time, he neither answered (took) his call nor did replied (reply) text messages.”
“Over the years, she has proven (proved) to be a woman of excellence and repute….” Another form: He is a proven case of incompetency!
“The appearance of Tiwa as one of the models gave the charity a big boast (boost).”
“We’ll handover (hand over) recalcitrant debtors to EFCC…”
“I…join our teaming (teeming) citizens to wish you a very Happy Birthday (unnecessary capitalization).”
“You are a Boss (sic) who inspire (inspires) us with your courage, humility and service for (to) the people.”
“Police absolves security agencies of electoral fraud” It would be astounding for the Nigeria Police to indict fellow state gangsters! And, of course: police absolve (not absolves).
“…even if it means going extra miles….” I will go the extra mile (note the fixed expression) to ensure that this column appears unfailingly every
“Andweek. like (as) someone said recently….”
“…in the evacuation of dead bodies to mortuary.” On a clinical note: corpses instead of ‘dead bodies’ and a mortuary or mortuaries, depending on the fact of the matter.
“…as well as condoning the place and evacuating the dead and survivors to nearest health facilities.” Bomb blasts and conflicting
figures: cordoning off (take note of the spelling and correct entry) the place.
“There seems (seem) to be stiff competitions among the foreign media and local press as well as….”
“…politicians are also culprits in overheating the system with provocative statements in blaming their opponents over (for) every misdeed.”
“Baring few skirmishes which regrettably led to the death of four persons….” An anatomy of the season of linguistic violence: there is a world of distinction between ‘a few’ (which correctly applies here) and ‘few’, which connotatively suggests an expectation of more skirmishes—except if the writer has a weird denotative inclination towards potentialities for more skirmishes! Otherwise, the extract is lexically absurd because of his regret.
“Just imagine a young man that rounded up his apprenticeship as a welder.” This is an indication of the current malaise in scholarship: a situation where a lecturer cannot distinguish between phrasal verbs, ‘round up’ and ‘round off’ (which applies here).
“Will anybody please let us know which country became a super-power by allowing its best brains to roam about the world?”
‘Roam’ encompasses ‘about’.
“News from the universities are no longer about innovation.…” News is news (uncountable).
“The condition, which is said to be due to an abnormality in either the number or structure of the chromosomes, cuts across every races.”
Get it right: every race or all races.
“Janet, a twelve-year-old and the third child of her parents’ four offsprings and the only one with the problem…” ‘Offspring’ is non-count.
“Since 1993, funding of oil exploration have (has) been beset by different levels of problems.”
“In answering this question we classify
The Death of Our Memories
You could almost hear the anguish in Taiwo Obe’s voice as he narrated the tragic comedy of Nigeria’s forgotten memory houses - those dusty chambers once known as libraries, museums, and archives. What was meant to be a nostalgic celebration of our media heritage almost turned instead into a requiem for what we once valued but have since abandoned. The revelation that old newspapers, magazines, and records - our collective footprints in ink and paper - now rot under leaking roofs or end up as wrapping sheets in suya joints is not just depressing; it’s scandalous.
The story of a young researcher weeping inside a supposed “national institution” because rain had destroyed decades of priceless media records is the sort of scene that should make any self-respecting country recoil in shame. When the Daily Times library was left to the mercy of the wind, and Newswatch’s materials were sold off to recyclers, we didn’t just lose old papers - we lost memory, context, and continuity. Without archives, a nation suffers cultural amnesia. Without a living record of where we’ve been, how can we know where we’re going?
Ironically, it is not the British Museum or the Smithsonian that should be blamed for hoarding our history. They merely kept what we carelessly threw away. Today, the complete digital archive of the Daily Times of Nigeria is not in Abuja or Lagos - but sitting comfortably in the servers of Stanford University, under the care of the Hoover Institution. Another collection rests quietly in Boston University’s Mugar Library. Even Iwe Irohin, the first newspaper published on this soil, is better preserved in a British library than in any Nigerian institution. How did we become a people allergic to remembrance?
Beyond the lazy explanation of “paucity of funds,” our tragedy is cultural and systemic. We do not value continuity; we glorify immediacy.
We celebrate the “new” and discard the “old” with frightening enthusiasm. Every new regime wants to start afresh, building monuments on the ruins of yesterday’s dreams. The idea that history or archives could serve as a compass for governance or national pride is alien to our political psychology. We are a country of short memories and shorter attention spans.
The absence of a maintenance culture, often mocked as a Nigerian cliché, is actually a symptom of deeper dysfunction: a failure to understand that preservation is progress. A leaking roof over an archive is not just negligence; it is contempt for knowledge. How can a people who treat their records like refuse ever hope to build institutions that endure?
Then there is the leadership malaise. Those in charge of our cultural and educational institutions see their roles as ceremonial rather than custodial. Directors, ministers, and commissioners prefer to cut ribbons at “digitisation launches” than to fund the quiet, meticulous work of conservation. Bureaucrats who should be ensuring preservation are instead compiling memos about “renovation contracts.” Every time a budget is slashed, the first casualties are always libraries, research institutes, and museums - as if knowledge were a luxury we can do without.
Our universities are not exempt. Many departmental libraries have become storage rooms for obsolete equipment or dumping grounds for broken furniture and discarded “projects”. Students in mass communication or history faculties graduate without ever seeing a proper microfilm, newspaper index, or archival catalogue. We have succeeded in producing journalists who have never handled a newspaper older than themselves. The past has become irrelevant - until, of course, we need to quote it for nostalgia.
Contrast this with countries that understand the power of memory. In the United Kingdom, the British Library preserves copies of every newspaper ever printed within its shores - from
the outcomes into long term and short term implications.” The greatest problem of journal- ists: unnecessary embellishment (outcome) of words.
“This is clearly a danger signal as the time between discovering an oil field and commercially putting it on stream could be between four to five years.” No analysis: between four and five or from four to five years.
“Lack of funds cripple waste management activities” Another error of attraction: Lack of funds cripples.
“Nevertheless, the donor country is also interested in this decision to ensure that the loan is repaid as at when due with its accrued interest.” Without any periscope: the loan is repaid when due (not ‘as at when due’ which is pleonastic).
“If the family cannot truely relish at least a decent meat….” Spelling counts: truly.
“A man does not have to be a money bag (sic) before he can dress well and look charming in his own little way.” Brighten up your English usage: A man does not have to be a moneybags…. Moneybag is a sac!
“…in addition, (sic) to dispensing drugs for immediate relief and giving counsel on the steps necessary to prevent a reoccurrence.”
Good grammar: recurrence.
“…it sent the signal that those responsible for the security of lives and properties in Oyo State are working at cross-purposes”. Some caution, please: life and property.
“The arsonists usually escape with their loot as the embattled market lays in ashes, leaving many traders terminally ruined financially.” There should be no dilemma: ‘lays’ for ‘lies’? “I still remember vividly that when it was my turn to speak at the occasion….” I thought we had gone past this stage: on (never at) the occasion.
the Times of 1785 to the Sun of today. In the United States, the Library of Congress digitises millions of pages annually, ensuring that even the smallest county paper in 1901 Iowa is accessible online. In France, heritage preservation is not a favour; it’s a duty protected by law. Even South Africa maintains digital and physical archives of its press history, available for scholars and citizens alike.
So what can be done to rescue Nigeria’s fading memory? For one, the private sector must no longer leave the burden to underfunded ministries. Corporate Nigeria, which gleefully spends billions sponsoring reality shows and football leagues, should invest a fraction of that in media preservation and heritage digitisation. It’s good for brand legacy, corporate social responsibility, and national pride.
Secondly, our media houses must rediscover the discipline of record-keeping. ThisDay, The Punch, Guardian, Tribune, Vanguard, and others should not wait for foreign universities to digitise their history. Collaboration with platforms like ARCHIVI.NG and Centre for Research, Information Management and Media Development (CRIMMD) could create centralised national repositories, accessible to researchers, schools, and citizens. Technology has simplified the process - all that’s needed is intent and coordination.
Government, for its part, must enact an Archives and Records Preservation Act - one that mandates all public institutions to maintain and periodically digitise their records. This should not be another “policy statement” destined for dustbins; it must carry enforceable penalties for neglect. The National Library, the National Archives, and the Nigerian Press Council should be empowered, and funded, to work collaboratively.
Education plays a critical role too. From primary schools to universities, students should be exposed to the importance of
record preservation. Let them understand that newspapers are not just wrapping papers, but historical documents; that every photograph, every editorial, every advert, captures a moment in our shared journey. When young Nigerians begin to see archives not as old junk but as living stories, we might yet raise a generation of custodians instead of consumers.
Incentives also matter. Grants and fellowships should be established for researchers, archivists, and historians to document and digitise Nigeria’s press and broadcast heritage. We need public campaigns that celebrate those who preserve - not only those who “break news.” Perhaps one day, an “Archival Day” will sit proudly on our national calendar, reminding us that a country without memory is a country without meaning.
As Obe asked, with pain and disbelief: “What is wrong with us?” The answer is complex, but not irredeemable. What is wrong is that we have mistaken progress for perpetual novelty. We build skyscrapers while our foundations crumble. We celebrate influencers but forget inventors. We idolise today’s headlines, while yesterday’s lessons dissolve in damp rooms under leaking ceilings.
If Nigeria is to reclaim its soul, it must begin by rescuing its memory. The archives must rise again - not as museums of decay but as monuments of identity. It will take money, yes, but more importantly, it will take mindfulness. Leadership that understands that no nation becomes great by forgetting itself. Until then, we shall keep asking, like the founder of CRIMMD, Raphael James did - and like Obe echoed - that haunting, perennial question that refuses to die: What is wrong with us?
•Tourism •Arts&Culture
Frank Ogbuewu: There Should Be Continuity in Culture, Tourism Ministry’s Programmes
Former Minister of Culture and Tourism, Ambassador Frank Ogbuewu, speaks about the need for continuity in the ministry’s programmes and policies, increased youth involvement in tourism sector, among other issues. Charles Ajunwa brings excerpts
What is your advice for those calling the shots today in the ministry?
My advice for those in power is to remember whenever you get appointment, try to continue from where the other person stopped. Continuity is important. The problem we have here is that continuity is not taken seriously at all. Because there is no reason why Abuja Carnival should die the way it died. After all that I did for Abuja Carnival, there is no one talking about Abuja Carnival. It’s just about lack of continuity. Nigerian culture is no more what it was since the last time I left.
As a country, what are those things we are lacking in tourism sector in terms of sustainability?
We are lacking continuity. Let them identify what we did that they have been doing well and why they are not working again. Let them tell us why tourism cannot work again. I keep on saying that tourism is the number two source of employment after agriculture.
The highest second labour employment is tourism. They are not taking it seriously. And we have a problem of unemployment everywhere why there’s something that can happen. When we had
Abuja Carnival, it was big business and people of cadres made their money from it. They were all happy and they prayed that Abuja Carnival never ended. And again, I served as ambassador in the country, Greece, that depended on Tourism. Their major income is tourism. But here, what is happening? I feel pained that tourism is not happening. That’s why I’m happy ANJET did what they did to remind me that I did well as Minister of Culture and Tourism.
At the 2025 Ofala Festival, the Obi of Onitsha, His Royal Majesty Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, called for involvement of youths in tourism. What is your take on this?
We have 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). At least, these 36 states and FCT can always promote tourism in their respective places. Cross River State for example, Governor Donald Duke did it. Nothing stops the Governors from taking it seriously. By so doing, they promote special tourism products to whole world. Every state, every local government area has products that have comparative advantage. If all of them promote those products that they have comparative advantage every place would be developed tourism-wise. So, it’s not about federal government alone, let the state governors think about how to develop tourism in their respective states. The youths will
actually buy into it. If something happens, they will join. They cannot stand on their own. For the youths to be brought into something and be relatively organised, the governors should do it. Thirty-six in Nigeria organising tourism that will not only expand the sector tremendously, Nigeria will become a discussion.
Beyond the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), what else should the Ministry of Tourism be doing to boost tourism?
Action. Implementation of those MoUs. That’s all we need.
The world is going the way of AI. Should the Tourism tag along?
Let us start from what we know how to do best. And then we can join the AI. Artificial Intelligence will definitely rob you and others opportunity of working.
Can you tell us how you feel on receiving award of ‘Most Impactful Nigerian Minister of Culture and Tourism’ from Association of Nigerian Journalists and Writers of Tourism (ANJET)?
I feel good. I feel good that they remembered me after 18 years.
Why did you dedicate your award to former
President Olusegun Obasanjo?
You see, he supported me as a minister. Obasanjo created what we call Nigerian Council of Tourism. It never happened. He created NCT and signed it. They couldn’t continue with this. That time, whenever we are going to have Council of Tourism, he will move his cabinet to that place. We did it in Calabar when we first had it. We did it in Nasarawa and other places.
Femi Fadina: Nigeria’s Tourism Products Can Compete Globally
President of Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria, Femi Fadina, says Nigeria’s tourism can compete anywhere in the world, adding that youth should drive the production of tourism products in Nigeria, among other issues. Charles Ajunwa brings excerpts
Can you tell us what you have done since you became ATPN President?
We are repositioning a wonderful association that has been there since 1993. We are trying to restructure it and we understand that this restructuring is a process and we can’t reform without compliance. We are putting restructuring in place and by the special grace of God things are going the planned.
Apart from restructuring you talked about, what other things are you looking at?
Well, one of the things is that you have to put your home in order before you can start doing onboarding. From onboarding, then you need to do what is membership drive. From membership drive, you also need to put a lot in place which is also part of trying to make sure that strategies and people understanding the visions and objectives of the association and from there, strategic partnership which are all these pushing towards tourism direction.
You talked about strategic partnership, who
are the people you’re collaborating with?
Of course, you have to collaborate with the agencies that are doing the right thing at the moment. NIHOTOUR is one of them, NTDA, state governments and corporate entities. Just to make sure that things are going in the right
direction and we have those who are standing by. What’s your assessment of tourism in Nigeria?
Well, tourism is an inclusive work. It’s local. So you have to drive it from local. And to drive it from local, you need to carry the chairmen along, you need to carry quite a lot of structures along because culture development means you need to work with the traditional institutions. You need to work with the local governments. You need to drive it from the local before it can go global. I’m not saying they are no signing of MoUs and things like that. But one of the most important things is what are the boxes, things that are put together inside the MoUs that can favour the locals. Because it is only when the locals are driven. And for me, some of our festivals are more of a jamboree than a production. We need to make sure that some of our festivals are pushed towards production instead of pushing them towards jamboree.
There’s a school of thought that tourism democratised, make it participatory as you emphasised on need for locals to buy into it. What’s is your take?
You see, tourism comes in two ways especially
Tourism Expert, Akamadu Bags Humanity Award
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of AfroCultour Limited, Chuks Akamadu, has been nominated for the Excellence in Service to Humanity Award by the African Christian Movies Award (ACMA).
According to a statement from the organisers, the honour will be formally conferred on Akamadu during the sixth edition of the continental awards slated for November 15, 2025, in Lagos.
The ACMA Awards Committee said
Akamadu’s nomination was in recognition of his philanthropic and charitable initiatives, which have positively impacted lives and renewed hope among the less-privileged.
The organisers described the award as an expression of appreciation for Akamadu’s contributions to humanity and his commitment to promoting Christian values through social impact andInstitutedempowerment. by Christian leaders from various denominations in Nollywood, ACMA seeks to promote evangelisation and ecumenism through entertainment, while celebrating individuals and
organisations advancing the Christian faith and humanitarian causes.
Akamadu, a lawyer, tourism expert and cultural entrepreneur, has been instrumental in advancing creative collaborations across Africa through AfroCultour Limited, a platform that promotes cultural exchange, tourism and youth empowerment.
In his reaction to the nomination, Akamadu expressed appreciation to the organisers for the recognition, describing it as a motivation to do more for society.
He reaffirmed his commitment to championing causes that uplift humanity and advance moral and cultural values across the continent.
when you come to locals. When you come to the traditional aspect of it, you need to define the tradition, customs, festivals, and promotions. Like what is going on in my town right now for the Egungun festival. Before the Egungun birth, there is something they call Agbo. No man can see Agbo. The moment you see it, you’re dead. Those traditional products must be separated from the cultural and festival products. So for me, there is quite a lot that we need to learn in the area of making sure that our products are well positioned in terms of promotions, and at the same time, in terms of understanding the process of implementations of some of these our MoUs.
In terms of promoting the locals, are there other things we can also do to make sure that we drive this process?
Let me take a case study on Awori Day in particular. Awori because it’s driven by locals, then it’s also moved by strategic partnership, which also creates the economy. Don’t forget that tourism has different products. It’s the products you assemble together, you have the tourism economy. So you need to tactically and strategically position the products, develop the products, so that the products becomes an opportunity for all locals to benefit, including the ones selling pure water, they must benefit. To the ones selling clothes, they must benefit. So it depends on how you have to position them.
Ogbuewu
Fadina
Akamadu
Charles Ajunwa
Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394
Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com
Oshorenoya: My Journey Has Been One of Growth, Transformation, Self-discovery
Francis Oshorenoya is a Nigerian artist based in the United Kingdom. His work focuses on painting and explores themes of identity, self-discovery, immigration, and emotional well-being. Much of his inspiration comes from lived experiences, and environments. Having told stories rooted in solitude, identity, and the emotional states of the male figure as an immigrant, Oshorenoya, shares his journey so far as artist navigating the art world. Ferdinand Ekechukwu brings the excerpts:
Whathasyourexperiences overtheyearsbeen like?
For my artistic practice, career, and personal life, a lot has changed since leaving Nigeria and coming to the United Kingdom as an international student and immigrant. The culture and lifestyle here have deeply influenced, challenged, and transformed the way I live my life, which in turn has had a profound impact on my art and how I navigate my artistic practice and career. At the earliest stages, I found it very difficult to adapt to the system, as I was exposed to a completely new way of life and working — one that was very different from home. balancing schoolwork, maintaining my studio practice, and working to earn money for my upkeep was extremely challenging. I’m proud that I stayed strong through it all and successfully graduated, which lifted a huge burden from my shoulders. Pursuing my master’s degree is something I will forever be grateful for. It gave me new knowledge, experiences, and perspectives that reshaped my artistic practice, positioning me on a path of learning, becoming, and self-discovery. After graduation, I had the privilege of participating in my first-ever international art residency at the prestigious Akoje Gallery & residency in collaboration with The King’s Foundation at Dumfries House in Scotland. That experience
was a major highlight of my career, one that truly shaped my life, my artistic journey, and the way I see the world. The residency offered me the opportunity to explore, learn, and uncover new aspects of myself. I engaged in meaningful projects and collaborations with fellow artists, art lovers, and remarkable individuals. It also allowed me to travel, which greatly influenced how I perceive both art and life today. These experiences have shaped who I am and how I approach my work. They’ve given me the confidence to tell stories rooted in solitude, identity, and the emotional states of the male figure as an immigrant. I’m proud to have shared these stories through three group exhibitions here in the United Kingdom with the most recent titled ‘UP ToWN AGAIN’ currently showing at the Two Queens gallery in Leicester city, milestones that continue to inspire and affirm my growth as an artist.
Sofar,howhaveyoufaredintheartworld?
When I think about how I’ve fared in my art world, I would say my journey has been one of growth, transformation, and self-discovery. I have fared with strength, growth, and purpose. every challenge has shaped me, and every experience has added a new layer to my identity as an artist.
Any competition, awards you have been involvedin,aimsachieved?
Prior to relocating to the United Kingdom, I actively participated in several art competitions
and exhibitions in Nigeria, including LImCAF (Life in my City Art Festival), one of the biggest and most recognised art festivals in the country. Those early experiences played a significant role in building my confidence as an artist and preparing me for a broader international platform. Since moving to the UK, my main focus has been on developing my painting projects and building a strong foundation for my artistic career here. I recently completed and exhibited one of my major projects at Two Queens gallery, which was a rewarding experience and an important milestone in my journey. Currently, I am working on my second project, which is in preparation for my first solo exhibition in the United Kingdom, scheduled to take place in one of the country’s major cities. This upcoming exhibition marks a significant step forward in my career, a realisation of one of my biggest aims: to share my stories, experiences, and artistic voice with a wider audience.
Anychallengesencountered?
relocating from Nigeria to the United Kingdom came with many challenges, both personally and professionally. Adapting to a new culture, environment, and educational system was not easy. everything felt different the pace of life, the expectations, even the way art was perceived and practiced. one of the biggest challenges I faced was finding balance managing academic work during my master’s programme, keeping up with my studio practice, and working part-
time to support myself. There were times it felt overwhelming, but those experiences taught me resilience, time management, and the importance of staying grounded in my purpose.
2Baba’s 25 Years Journey on Stage
s he celebrates 25 years in the music industry, popular Nigerian singer, 2face also known as 2baba has shared a warm message, expressing gratitude to family, friends, colleagues, and veterans who shaped his career. The post which he shared via his Instagram, expectedly went viral, as fans and followers joined in marking the milestone with the African Queen hit-maker.
Reflecting on his career and the people who shaped his success story, the music icon noted defining moments, platforms, thanked and praised key figures like Nelson Brown, Kenny ogungbe, Dayo Adeneye (D1), and
It’s the 14th edition of the Africa International Film Festival opening in Lagos on Sunday, November 2. The festival, which runs through November 8, will showcase feature films, documentaries, and shorts from across Africa and the diaspora. With a new film and content market (AFCM) designed to deepen creative trade and attract more tourism inflow a major highlight.
AFrIFF, founded by Chioma Ude, has become a leading film festival in Africa, celebrating cinema from the continent and its diaspora. The festival, launched in 2010, has grown into one of Africa’s leading film gatherings, attracting over 2,000 participants annually. Set in Lagos at the Landmark Centre and other festival venues within the city.
Stakeholders say this year’s edition will test Lagos’ readiness for larger cultural tourism events ahead of the busy ‘Detty December’
season. backed by the State ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, AFrIFF is viewed as part of the state’s creative-industry agenda as part initiatives that position Lagos as a film-friendly destination.
a couple of others who were instrumental at different stages of his career. He acknowledged his erstwhile members, Faze and blackfaze of defunct Plantashun boiz.
Noteworthy on the exceptional list included edi Lawani, DJ Jimmy Jatt, and efe omorogbe, his ex-manager. He described the latter as a “brother, backbone, and soldier” who guided him with truth, sometimes hard truth, but always with love. He said his journey in music had been filled with gratitude, memories, lessons, and love.
According to him, he owes his success to everyone who believed in him even when he did not fully understand where destiny was leading. He wrote: “To my wife, family, friends, colleagues, clients and fans, As I stand on the threshold of 25 years in this incredible journey called music, my heart is full of gratitude,
memories, lessons, and love.” on the singer’s 50th birthday recently, he shared an official statement, citing it as a double celebration, as he also clocked 25 years on stage. The singer, who is regarded as one of Africa’s most influential and decorated music icons, said the anniversary was not just a personal milestone but also a celebration of everyone who had contributed to the growth of Nigerian music.
2baba, who began his professional journey in the late 1990s as part of Plantashun boiz, has since become one of the continent’s most celebrated musicians, with classic hits such as African Queen, If Love Is a Crime, and For Instance. The multiple award-winning artiste has used his platform to promote unity, love, and social change through his music and humanitarian initiatives.
In the bustling entertainment capital of Lagos, a new wave is reshaping the sound of African music, Lahor music Worldwide. Since its establishment in 2023, the record label has emerged as one of Nigeria’s most promising platforms for creative expression, global music distribution, and artist development.
With operations in Lagos, Nigeria, and Houston, Texas (USA), Lahor music Worldwide is not just another record label it is a bridge between African sound and the international stage. The brand’s mission is clear: to nurture authentic African talents, produce world-class music, and promote entertainment that uplifts culture and creativity.
behind the steady rise of Lahor music Worldwide is its visionary founder and Chief Executive Officer, Princepaul Orobosa Agbonlahor, an accomplished entrepreneur,
engineer, philanthropist, and advocate of good mental health.
Princepaul’s leadership spans across continents, managing an impressive network of businesses under the Lahor Conglomerate, a multi-sectoral empire with interests in entertainment, hospitality, real estate, mental health, automobile sales, oil and gas, and media.
A passionate lover of music and entertainment, Princepaul founded Lahor music Worldwide to serve as a platform that discovers and promotes raw African talent while maintaining international production standards. His ultimate vision is to see African music dominate the global charts while preserving its originality and cultural richness.
In the words of Princepaul himself: “At Lahor music Worldwide, we believe African music is the heartbeat of the world. our mission is to amplify that beat and make it echo across every continent.”
Ferdinand ekechukwu
Ferdinand ekechukwu
Ferdinand ekechukwu
Oshorenoya
2Baba
New Land Cruiser “FJ” Makes World Premiere
Toyota motor Corporation (Toyota) has unveiled the new Land Cruiser FJ, with the Japan launch planned for around mid-2026.
According to TmC, the Land Cruiser, launched originally as the Toyota bJ in 1951, immediately became the first vehicle to climb to the sixth station of mount Fuji. Since then, it has fulfilled its mission of delivering safety and security to all types of people in places that only the Land Cruiser can reach. Developed and refined based on global, real-world customer usage, it provides reliability, durability, and off-road performance that allows people to go anywhere and everywhere and return safely. This concept has been carried forward and continues to evolve to this day. With cumulative sales of about 12.15 million units*1 in over 190 countries and regions around the world, the Land Cruiser has supported the lives and livelihoods of people everywhere. It is a flagship Toyota model that has been developed and refined by customers around the world for over 70 years.
Until now, the Land Cruiser lineup has consisted of three distinct series: the Station Wagon that always showcases the latest technologies and has evolved into the flagship model (currently the 300 Series); the Heavy-Duty model with outstanding durability and serviceability as a workhorse (the 70 Series); and the core Land Cruiser model that was created in 2024 as a return to the car’s origins―simple, sturdy vehicle that helps fulfill customers’ lifestyle choices and practical needs (the 250 Series).
With the addition of the new Land Cruiser FJ*2
to the series, Toyota will provide new value in the form of “Freedom & Joy” that come from enjoying the Land Cruiser in your own way―while retaining the reliability, durability, and off-road performance that support people’s lifestyles. This stems from the desire to allow even more customers to enjoy the Land Cruiser, a vision made possible by the return to its origins with the 250 Series.
The Land Cruiser will continue to evolve to meet societal demands while supporting the lives of customers around the world and remaining a vehicle they can trust.
Toyota will unveil the Land Cruiser FJ at its booth at Japan mobility Show 2025 to be held from october 30 to November 9*3.
Three Key Features of the Land Cruiser FJ
1. Interior and exterior styling that fuses the traditional and modern that is the Land Cruiser’s inheritance in a functional package exterior Design:
· Follows a silhouette that emphasizes a square cabin, taking into consideration the habitability and cargo capacity that successive generations of Land Cruisers have prioritized
Weststar Associates MD, Ebere Anenih, Joins Board of Eurocham Nigeria
Weststar Associates Limited, the Authorized General Distributor of mercedes-benz in Nigeria, has announced the appointment of its managing Director, mrs. ebere Anenih, to the board of Directors of eurocham Nigeria (the european business Chamber in Nigeria).
eurocham Nigeria serves as a key platform for strengthening collaboration, trade, and investment between european and Nigerian businesses. The Chamber’s work focuses on fostering cross-border partnerships, facilitating knowledge exchange, and promoting policies that enhance business sustainability and competitiveness. The recent announcement by eurocham Nigeria named mrs. ebere Anenih of Weststar Associates Limited and mr. Jochen Stolle of Julius berger Nigeria PLC as new additions to the board of Directors. The Chamber also confirmed the appointment of mr. olakunle olusanya as vice President, joining mr. Frederik Klinke, Ceo of APm Terminals, in its executive leadership.
Speaking on her appointment, mrs. Anenih stated:
“I am honoured to join the board of eurocham Nigeria and to contribute to its mission of advancing trade and collaboration between european and Nigerian businesses. This appointment provides an opportunity to further strengthen the long-standing partnerships that continue to drive industrial development and shared growth across both regions.”
Weststar Associates’ role on the eurocham board reinforces the company’s strategic commitment to
deepening bilateral relations with europe. As the Authorized General Distributor for mercedes-benz in Nigeria, Weststar’s operations are firmly anchored in partnerships with leading european organizations, mercedes-benz AG and Daimler Truck AG, both headquartered in Germany. Through these collaborations, Weststar has consistently transferred advanced european engineering and business practices to the Nigerian market, supporting the development of a modern automotive ecosystem. The company’s initiatives have contributed to technology adoption, local capacity building, and the creation of employment opportunities within Nigeria’s automotive sector.
Commenting on the significance of the appointment, a spokesperson for Weststar Associates noted:
“our business foundation is built on enduring partnerships with european manufacturers. mrs. Anenih’s appointment to the eurocham Nigeria
board aligns with our long-term vision of fostering stronger bilateral ties, advancing industrial cooperation, and expanding the scope of trade and innovation between europe and Nigeria.”
eurocham Nigeria continues to play a pivotal role in uniting european enterprises and Nigerian stakeholders in the pursuit of shared economic advancement. With mrs. Anenih’s appointment, Weststar is positioned to contribute more actively to the Chamber’s objectives, including advocacy for fair business practices, improved investment conditions, and sustainable growth within the bilateral business community.
Weststar Associates congratulates mrs. Anenih on this notable recognition and looks forward to supporting eurocham Nigeria’s continued efforts to strengthen collaboration and partnership between the european Union and Nigeria.
Solving Nigeria’s Auto Financing Challenges: Jaiz Bank Leads as 25th Abuja
International Motor Fair Holds
As Nigeria’s premier automotive showcase, the 25th Abuja International motor Fair takes centre stage from November 18-21, 2025 at the eagle Square, Abuja, with a strong focus on Auto Financing and Sustainable mobility Solutions. As Nigeria grapples with auto financing challenges, Jaiz bank PLC is leading a transformative shift towards sustainable transport solutions. The bank’s recent proposal to the Katsina State Government (KTSG) for the supply of Hongqi e-Qm5 Plus 2024 model electric vehicles (evs) marks a significant step in aligning national development with global environmental, Social, and Governance (eSG) goals. This initiative sets a powerful precedent ahead of the 25th Abuja International motor Show, where auto financing is a key theme.
The proposal, targeted for the use of the State’s executive members, outlines a comprehensive plan to transition the government’s fleet to electric vehicles. The move is aimed at reducing the state’s carbon footprint, achieving significant operational cost savings, and enhancing KTSG’s brand image as a forward-thinking institution. This vision is backed by Jaiz bank’s bespoke and flexible corporate financing solutions, designed to make ev adoption seamless for public and private institutions.
A Landmark Proposal for Sustainable Governance
The centrepiece of the proposal is the sophisticated Hongqi e-Qm5 Plus electric sedan, a vehicle that blends advanced technology, elegant design, and executive comfort. With an impressive range of 560km per full charge, a rapid charging time of 0.7 hours, and a top speed of 160 km/h, the vehicle is engineered for both long-distance efficiency and a smooth, high-tech executive ride.
Key benefits for the State Governments as highlighted in the proposal include: Sustainability Leadership: Positioning participating States as pioneers in eco-friendly public sector transportation. operational Cost Savings: Drastically reduced expenditure on fuel and maintenance compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. executive Comfort: Providing silent, smooth, and premium rides for state officials; and Long-Term value: backed by an 8-year warranty and robust battery technology.
Expert Insights: Auto Financing as a Catalyst for Change
Commenting on this innovative approach, the bank, stated, “The future of mobility is green, and the future of asset acquisition is flexible financing. our proposal is more than a transaction; it’s a blueprint for how Nigerian institutions can sustainably modernize their fleets. We have moved beyond traditional auto loans to create bespoke, sharia-compliant lease-to-own plans that de-risk the transition to evs for our clients. The Abuja International motor Show is the perfect platform to showcase this model to the nation.”
Auto financing experts have lauded this move, noting its potential to reshape the market. mrs. Adebola Adesoga, an Automotive Industry Analyst, remarked, “this initiative is a gamechanger. It addresses the two biggest hurdles to ev adoption in Nigeria: upfront cost and infrastructure anxiety.
FRSC Lagos Zonal Command Condemns Recurring Crashes Along Kara Bridge
The Zonal Commanding officer, Federal road Safety Corps (FrSC) Zone rS2 Lagos—comprising Lagos and ogun States—Assistant Corps marshal Ann o oladayo, fsi, has expressed deep concern over the recurring series of road traffic crashes that occurred between october 29 and 30, 2025 around Kara bridge on the Lagos–Ibadan expressway, resulting in multiple fatalities, injuries, and prolonged traffic disruption.
The Zonal Commanding officer in the early hours of today, october 31, visited the scene to physically assess the situation and further coordinate post-crash activities.
The Zonal Commander, while commending the prompt response of FrSC rescue teams, the Nigeria Police, Lagos State Fire and emergency Services, and other first responders, has directed both Lagos and ogun Sector Commands to intensify surveillance and patrol visibility within that axis, especially during night hours when the risk of crashes is notably higher.
Preliminary investigations attribute the crashes to speed violations, loss of control, and reckless overtaking—behaviours which continue to undermine the Corps’ efforts toward achieving a crash-free motoring environment.
The ZCo, while lamenting the needless loss of lives, stressed that these incidents are preventable if drivers and fleet operators adhere strictly to
safety protocols.
Assistant Corps marshal oladayo further disclosed that the Zone is engaging key transport stakeholders—including haulage unions, fleet operators, and community leaders within the Kara–mowe corridor—to strengthen compliance monitoring, enforce mandatory vehicle checks, and enhance enlightenment for night-time drivers. She also directed that the Safe-To-Load enforcement be scaled up across all loading points within Lagos and ogun States.
The ZCo reiterated that the FrSC will not relent in enforcing all relevant safety regulations and will intensify inter-agency collaboration to ensure prompt removal of obstructions, effective traffic management, and improved crash response
mechanisms along major corridors within the Zone. She therefore admonished all motorists, particularly truck and commercial vehicle drivers, to take personal responsibility for their safety and that of others by avoiding overspeeding, night travel, reckless overtaking, and driving under fatigue or distraction.
“The road is a shared space, not a racetrack. every life lost is one too many. Safety begins with each driver making the right choice behind the wheel,” she stated.
The Zonal Command appeals to all stakeholders to continue supporting FrSC’s vision of achieving safer roads and fuller public compliance, especially as the nation approaches the busy year-end travel period.
Chief Operating Officer, DataPro Limited, Mr. Oladele Adeoye, speaks on implications of Nigeria’s exit from the Financial Action Task Force grey list, saying the development will restore global confidence in the financial system, boost foreign investment and international trade relations, among others. Festus Akanbi brings the excerpts:
What does Nigeria’s recent exit from the FATF grey list signify for the country’s financial system and overall credibility in the global financial community?
Exiting the FATF grey list is a historic milestone for the country’s financial system and overall credibility in the global financial community. This achievement echoes the discipline towards reforms, strong institutional coordination, and an unwavering commitment to adopting and sustaining global financial standards. Being delisted from the grey list restores the reputation of our great country, signalling to international communities and investors that the country is now a trusted and compliant financial jurisdiction.
From a compliance and risk management standpoint, what specific reforms or institutional improvements made Nigeria’s delisting possible?
It is not a coincidence that Nigeria exited the FATF Grey list. A lot of commitment went into ensuring that the 9-point Action Plan was dispensed with. Specifically, issues relating to a risk-based approach to AML/CFT/CPF in Nigeria, and more emphasis was placed on creating awareness about AML/CPF and ensuring risk-based monitoring of the Non-profit organisations that are susceptible to Terrorist Financing. In furtherance of this, the Special Control Unit against Money Laundering (SCUML) convened a meeting with the major stakeholders of the NPO and Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions in May 2025 to create awareness about the risk of AML/ CFT/CPF associated with such sector and counter measures were discussed during the engagement.
Similarly, Nigeria established the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and the Proceeds of Crimes (Recovery and Management) Act, 2022, and also conducted national and sectoral risk assessment with mitigating measures to satisfy the requirements of the FATF. CBN, in its commitment to see Nigeria exit the grey List, also rolled out guidelines on Politically Exposed Persons, Suspicious Transaction Report, Suspicious Activities Report.
All these show that a whole lot went into the project.
How do you assess the role of Nigeria’s private sector, especially financial institutions and DNFBs, in achieving FATF compliance milestones?
Since the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) rolled out its Suspicious Transaction Reporting (STR) guidelines, and the Central
Bank of Nigeria (CBN) followed with rigorous compliance regulations, AML/CFT/CPF compliance has been mandatory for financial institutions and DFNBPs. Regulatory Institutions like the SEC and NAICOM were also swift in issuing appropriate regulations for their immediate constituencies. These guidelines and regulations influenced banks and other financial institutions to strengthen their anti-money laundering (AML) controls, enhance transaction monitoring, and ensure the timely reporting of suspicious activities. The implication of this is that indirectly, the private sector worked assiduously toward the cause of exiting the Grey List.
Beyond regulation, NFIU, in collaboration with the British High Commission, has launched a public-private partnership (PPP) programme to bring together private sector players and public institutions to jointly combat money laundering and terrorist financing. This innovative partnership promotes information sharing, builds investigative capacity, and fosters coordinated action across sectors.
It is glaring that the exit was not based on the commitment of the government institution alone, but also on the collaboration of private institutions.
What are the immediate and long-term economic benefits that Nigeria can expect from this development, particularly in terms of foreign investment,
trade, and correspondent banking relationships?
Getting off the FATF grey list is a massive win for Nigeria, and I’m seeing the benefits play out in real time from a compliance perspective.
Right now, the immediate impact is that correspondent banks are not going to be treating every Nigerian transaction like a potential red flag anymore. Before delisting, we were subject to enhanced due diligence on practically everything, including extra documentation, longer processing times, and higher fees. That is already starting to ease up. Foreign investors who were previously hesitant now view Nigeria as less risky, leading them to be more willing to engage. Trade finance will move faster, and we could be closer to making our $1 billion monthly diaspora target set by the CBN governor.
In the long term, this opens up serious opportunities. We will have better access to international capital markets and stronger correspondent banking relationships, which would expand what Nigerian businesses can do globally.
The work that has gone into strengthening our AML/CFT/CPF frameworks is not just to tick the box but to build a system that actually works and could be trusted by international partners.
Henceforth, we are expecting to see more foreign investment flowing in, lower borrowing costs, and genuine growth in cross-border partnerships.
In your view, what were the most critical lessons Nigeria learned from its period on the grey list, and how can those lessons help strengthen the country’s AML/CFT architecture going forward?
Honestly, without robust and risk-based supervision of financial institutions and designated non-financial businesses and professions (DNFBPs), vulnerabilities will persist. The FATF review showed that inconsistent enforcement and gaps in reporting standards are a threat to the integrity of our financial system and economy. By updating regulations, our compliance monitoring is expanded, and capacity building is enhanced to ensure all sectors are held accountable.
Some analysts warn that countries often slip back onto the grey list due to regulatory complacency. What proactive measures should Nigeria adopt to prevent such a relapse?
Getting off the grey list is not hard. Staying off it is where the real work lies. Efforts can fade because the pressure from the international space is off. And to avoid sliding back, we must ensure that the cooperation between NFIU, EFCC, CBN, and other regulators that got us delisted needs to become standard operating procedure. The systems have to stay responsive and consistent. When there is a proactive measure from the regulator to enforce the requirements of the laws and regulations, institutions would also sit up. Similarly, we need to bring the private sector deeper into this fight. Banks and fintech are on the front lines. NPOs and Casinos are still far from the realities of compliance. More attention needs be paid to those sectors.
If we treat exit as a destination, we may land on that black list instead of grey, but with proactive steps and effective enforcement of laws and regulations, we will not just stay off the list; there will be trust and accountability in the financial sector.
How should regulators like the CBN, NFIU, and EFCC deepen collaboration with private compliance professionals to ensure continuous improvement in financial transparency and integrity?
Regulators can ensure collaboration with private compliance professionals by riding on the PPP approach that has been adopted by the NFIU and the British High Commission, just like the public and private partnership the Nigeria Data Protection Commission has adopted where in, independent Data Protection Compliance Organsiation not only conduct compliance audit for the data controllers/ processors, but also becomes the extensions of the eyes of the regulators. Periodic stakeholders engagement and capacity-building initiatives is key.
TAFTA Concludes Women Entrepreneurs Development Bootcamp
The Terra Academy for the Arts (TAFTA) in partnership with Mastercard Foundation, has successfully concluded its three-day Women Entrepreneurs Development Program (WEDP) Bootcamp.
The transformative initiative was designed to equip female TAFTA alumni with practical tools, industry knowledge, and vital networks to transform their creative passions into sustainable businesses.
Held from October 27 to 29, 2025, the hybrid boot camp, according to a statement, brought together female creatives aged 18 to 35, for a comprehensive learning experience that combined virtual sessions on business fundamentals with an in-person showcase and pitch event at Terra Kulture.
The program addressed critical gaps in entrepreneurship education for women, with a focus on legal formalisation, financial literacy, digital strategy, market access, and investor readiness.
Speaking about the initiative, the Founder of TAFTA, Bolanle Austen Peters, reaffirmed the organisation’s
dedication to building sustainable pathways for women in the creative economy.“At TAFTA, we believe that talent without opportunity is potential unfulfilled. This bootcamp reflects our commitment to ensuring that the women we train do not only become skilled artists but confident entrepreneurs capable of building, growing, and scaling businesses that transform their communities. We are investing in a generation of women who will redefine what it means to succeed in Nigeria’s creative economy,” she said.
The first two days of the bootcamp were held virtually and focused on key areas of entrepreneurship such as business foundations, legal compliance, intellectual property, and digital strategy. Participants learned how to formalize their businesses, develop sustainable models, manage finances, and build effective digital marketing plans. Expert facilitators including David Agboto, Chinedu Isagbah, Faith Desmond, Adefunke Smith, Favour Ofem, and Uloma Nkemakolam led engaging sessions that connected business concepts to real-world challenges faced by women in the creative sector.
The final day featured a dynamic physical session
at Terra Kulture, where participants showcased their progress through live pitch presentations before a panel of mentors, investors, and industry stakeholders. Sessions on funding opportunities, partnership strategies, and storytelling for investment were facilitated by Juliet Ibhadiyi and Bayo Babatunde, equipping participants with the confidence and clarity to communicate their business ideas effectively. The atmosphere was charged with creativity and purpose as the women demonstrated how they plan to scale their ventures and contribute meaningfully to the creative economy.
Academy Lead at TAFTA, Joseph Umoibom, highlighted the strategic importance of the program in advancing women’s participation in the creative economy.
“The creative economy is one of the fastest-growing sectors globally, yet women remain underrepresented in leadership and ownership positions,” he said.
“Through WEDP, we are not only teaching business skills but also breaking barriers and building an ecosystem where women can access funding, forge partnerships, and take their rightful place as industry leaders. The innovation we witnessed during the pitch
sessions shows that these women are the future of the creative industry.”
Participants received practical resources such as business templates, pitch deck guides, and access to microfinance information, along with continued mentorship opportunities. The program also introduced women-focused funding channels and created direct networking opportunities with potential investors and collaborators across the creative ecosystem. By the end of the bootcamp, participants left with actionable business plans, strengthened digital strategies, and a renewed sense of purpose within a growing network of women entrepreneurs committed to mutual growth and support. The initiative aligns with TAFTA’s mission to democratize access to quality arts education and build sustainable livelihoods for creative professionals across Nigeria.
The Women Entrepreneurs Development Program Bootcamp represents a major milestone in TAFTA’s commitment to gender equity in the creative sector. It demonstrates that when women are equipped with the right tools, resources, and opportunities, they do not just participate in the creative economy, they redefine it.
Adeoye
BOOK reVIew
Victor Ehikhamenor’s Enchanted World: Review of Chronicles of the Enchanted World
Olufemi Akinsanya
Ihave been assigned the duty of reviewing the Monograph, “Victor Ehikhamenor - Chronicles of the Enchanted World”.
Usually, such a duty is assigned to an intellectual or subject matter expert, who can authoritatively summarize what is contained in the book, and succinctly, highlight key aspects and messages thereof. But today is different, as I am neither a subject matter expert nor have I ever reviewed any book!
Therefore, for this review, I opted to borrow in parts, the more tangible words of direct collaborators, along with Victor, in the making of this book; and to their voices, I have added mine, especially in describing personal moments around today’s subject matter, my own experience of Victor’s art, and person; and, my hopes for him!
My initial relationship with Victor developed around my interest in knowing more about and acquiring some of his artworks. However, over time, that relationship has morphed into friendship. Our discussions and occasional interactions now revolve around mutual intellectual and artistic curiosities. These have allowed me proximity to learn more about his thought processes and better appreciate the essence of his artistic production.
I was, therefore, able to quickly discover that Victor’s art comes from a very deep place and has not just purpose, but a unique aesthetic. They are technically complex and competent; very beautiful and will endure for a long time.
In the meantime, I had managed to acquire several of Ehikhamenor artworks from the different epochs of his artistic production, up to this point. I also became aware of Victor’s great commitment and focus and have had the privilege of watching him carefully plug away at his well-thought-out plans.
It has therefore not been a surprise to me, but rather, a sincere delight, to see Victor gain increasing ascendancy and global recognition as a notable artist of black diaspora descent, through his consistently good, innovative and skilled productions. This is what has now been formally surveyed and documented by a consortium of notable art scholars, museum professionals and writers, in the book newly published by Prestel, which is one of the top publishing houses in the world!
To describe this book, one can hardly do any better than borrow the words of PenguinRandomHouse, when they first announced the imminent release of the book on their website in March 2024:
“This visually striking book is the first to explore the oeuvre of the celebrated multidisciplinary Nigerian artist, and its themes of identity, African postcolonial identities.
From his birth in a rural village in Nigeria to his unorthodox ascent as a global art star; Victor Ehikhamenor is garnering worldwide attention for his vibrant and incisive works that engage contemporary art, African history, and the postcolonial politics of global Black identity.
Drawing inspiration from his Nigerian roots, Ehikhamenor fuses tradition with contemporary expression through intricate patterns, symbolic motifs, and a rich visual language that weaves together the threads of mythology and cultural heritage. Brimming with boldly colored photographs and reproductions, this book focuses on Ehikhamenor’s most recent work such as “Daydream Esoterica”, “Saints and Sanctums”, “Still Standing”, and “A Biography of the Forgotten”, investigating them through a transcultural analysis of mobility, circulation, networks, and connectivity.
It explores seven key aspects of the artist’s practice—rosaries, perforations, installations, paintings, drawings, collage, and sculpture—to show how he creates complex portraits of African peoples and African spaces.”
The new book, Victor EhikhamenorChronicles of The Enchanted, by Sylvester Ogbechie, with contributions by Dan Hicks,
Emmanuel Iduma, Toni Kan, and Barbara Plankensteiner, and published by Prestel, was eventually issued in May this year, 2025.
To put my review in proper context, let me share an anecdote about a specific Victor Ehikhamenor artwork in my collection.
Early in the evening of Tuesday, 21st November 2023, I sent Victor a WhatsApp note, informing him that we had on the day before, finally hung up and unveiled my second Ehikhameor rosaries artwork. That piece, from the Oba series, though smaller, is somewhat like the cover illustration of this Monograph! A truly beautiful artwork!
My Oba rosaries artwork had lain hidden away in my house for a full year, in my possession, unknown to anyone else until that unveiling! I went on to say to Victor, “You should come round to have a look at your work and share some wine with me. I am truly, truly, grateful to have this work, and very much enamoured of your work and creativity”.
Victor showed up later that day, and together, we shared wine and enjoyed looking at his mesmerizing artwork on my wall!
This last July, on Tuesday 29th to be precise, Victor kindly brought me a copy of the beautiful new book that I am now reviewing. Much later the same day, I proceeded to read the book. Although I was extremely busy during that time, I found it hard to put down the book and ended up staying awake late into the night for the next few days, as I continued to read the book alongside getting on with work that had piled up while I was away abroad.
This well-scripted and illustrated book shed rich new light for me on the meaning and significance of Victor Ehikhamenor’s art across the length and breadth, as well as different periods and media, of his practice. I trust that diligent reading of the book, not merely flipping through its pages, will not only show you new ways of seeing, but will enhance your appreciation of any Ehikhamenor artwork you may already know or own. Furthermore, the experience of reading the book will almost certainly, going forward, extend your overall enjoyment of any great art in general!
However, I must briefly point out a few aspects of the book’s main theme, which is, “Ehikhamenor and Enchantment!”
Ogbechie asserts that “Ehikhamenor is a global citizen who feels at home anywhere in the world and his artworks have been exhibited worldwide. In this regard, he has been described as an Afropolitan, a term he both embraces and contests. Attributed to a concept advanced by philosopher and cultural theorist Achille Mbembe, Afropolitanism refers to a way of being “African” and “cosmopolitan” in the world and understanding African cultures as hybrids formed from many different influences and roots.
Afropolitanism refuses in principle any form of victim identity despite the historical injustices and violence inflicted on the continent and its people. Instead, it takes a political and cultural stance in relation to the nation, to race, and to the issue of difference in general. Conscious of the continent’s rebirth in the global imagination, the Afropolitan seeks always to be a healthy enabler of Africa’s viability as a font of transformation and triumph. Ehikhamenor’s art reflects an Afropolitan sensibility on his transnational practice, use of diverse media, and entrepreneurial attitude. At the same time, the artist insists on the importance of his location as a transnational artist working within established indigenous African traditions of art and cultural practice. As such, he maintains studios in Lagos, Nigeria, and
Maryland in the United States, and moves frequently between these locations, through the UK to other sites of practice in Europe and Asia”. (p.13).
Ogbechie, now partially quoting Emmanuel Iduma, continues, “Ehikhamenor’s artworks revel in profusion but regardless of how they are rendered – by charcoal, acrylic, enamel, or nail perforations – his images reference an enchanted world inspired by folktales and city life, by stories real and imagined, and the presentness of history. Their dense surface and tactile exuberance create what Alan de Souza described as “phenomenological encounters in the present that visually, almost haptically, transfix the viewer.” Ogbechie then goes on to conclude: “It is this capacity for enchantment that most characterizes his art. Emerging from a cultural environment deeply attuned to nature and the supernatural, Ehikhamenor reframes the fractious nature of contemporary Black identity as a phantasmagorical landscape even as he seeks always to locate the dream world in the everyday. His profuse lines cast a spell and the dense surfaces of his paintings and installations hint at worlds of mystery just outside of the viewer’s gaze.” (p.19).
Let me now return briefly to my own earlier assertion, that Ehikhamenor art comes from a very deep place!
Ogbechie’s explanation of the origins of Victor Ehikhamenor’s famed Rosaries artworks is apt. He writes that, “Ehikhamenor’s experience of the Venetian gallery owner labeling as fetish the Igun brass pendants in his installation “A Biography Of The Forgotten” left a mark. When Victor returned to his Lagos studio from Venice, he decided to adopt Catholic rosaries as a principal medium in his art. He began to use rosaries, an undeniably Christian religious item, to depict Benin Oba (kings) and Edo religious imagery, thus producing contemporary installations grounded in
Edo-Benin cultural specificity. This resulted in artworks that are easily recognizable as coming from Africa but There are many more enthralling threads and brilliant analysis of Victor Ehikhamenor’s oeuvre by all the contributing writers to the 208-page book, which, in my view, is a fitting scholarly review and documentation of Ehikhamenor’s art practice to date, and marks a notable milestone in the yet unfolding journey towards his undoubted destiny, of becoming one of the most important artists of his generation, worldwide!
Before closing my review, I will share another WhatsApp note to Victor, this one sent when I finished reading the book at about 11:30pm on the night of Saturday August 3, 2025:
“Dear Victor, to say I am most proud of you, which I am, would nevertheless be an understatement! Although I was always sure in my mind that you are an important, hardworking, especial, and gifted contemporary artist from Africa, Ogbechie’s brilliant new book, Victor Ehikhamenor, has helped to set your huge accomplishments in their proper context, in contemporary global art production and meaning! Well done! But I know your most important years are yet ahead. I hope to be witness, admirer and supporter always! I have thoroughly enjoyed reading the book, every word in it, from cover to cover! All best wishes, FA”.
Finally, I am convinced that this brilliant and most incisive book will delight, inspire and bless all that read it. Accordingly, I proudly recommend this monograph to you all; to all of Nigeria, and the world! Victor, may you continue to attain ever greater heights!
Akinsanya presented this review at the launch of the monograph on Friday October 5, 2025 at the MUSON Center, Lagos
Two Giants. One Continent. Endless Gratitude
Chukwudum Ofomata
As a proud Nigerian and passionate believer in Africa’s potential, I feel deeply moved to honour the remarkable legacies of two visionary leaders, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, the immediate past President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), and Prof. Benedict Oramah, who is also the immediate past President of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank). Both sons of Nigeria, both sons of Africa, have redefined what it means to lead with purpose, passion, and pride in the service of a continent. These two quintessential men have not just led African institutions; they have shaped the story of African development and economic advancement in ways that will be felt for generations.
Akinwumi Adesina: Champion of Africa’s Bright Future
Adesina, the recipient of the prestigious 2017 World Food Prize for his outstanding contributions to agricultural transformation and food security in Africa, brought unmatched energy and clarity to the AfDB. He championed high-impact agricultural innovation, infrastructure development, and socioeconomic advancement with bold conviction.
He reminded us all that Africa is not a problem to be solved but a promise to be fulfilled. Under his leadership, the bank stood taller, more responsive, more transformative, and deeply rooted in the belief that Africa’s future is bright.
Benedict Oramah: Architect of Africa’s Trade
Renaissance
Oramah, with calm brilliance, was a force behind Africa’s trade renaissance. Through Afreximbank, he opened new cor-
ridors of opportunity, pioneering groundbreaking financing in different sectors across the continent and supporting African exporters. He was instrumental in creating a mechanism that transformed intra-African trade by spearheading the establishment of the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), a revolutionary initiative that enables seamless cross-border transactions in local currencies.
He led the development of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) support framework. His tenure was defined by quiet strength, sharp intellect, and a deep commitment to African self-reliance.
Two Leaders, One Legacy of Transformation
Together, these two leaders exemplified what it means to serve with vision. They turned institutions into instruments of transformation and made boardrooms believe again in the African dream. Their departure is not an end, but a torch passed on, one that will continue to light the path for generations of African leaders to come.
With Heart, For Africa
I celebrate them today not just as brilliant minds but also as leaders who showed up for Africa, consistently, boldly, and with heart.
You have inspired many of us to dream bigger, serve better, and stay rooted in purpose. Africa is proud.
Thank you, Dr. Adesina. Thank you, Prof. Oramah.
Ofomata is a global brand and marketing strategist with over 18 years of experience building brands across Africa. He’s passionate about storytelling, cultural relevance, and go-to-market execution in emerging markets.
Vice President Victor Tulutu Briggs Foundation(VTBF), Mrs. Amelda Victor Briggs; Coordinator Victor Tulutu Briggs Foundation, Mrs. Alero Shirley Okiki; Overall winner from Olomu Community Senior Secondary School, Mr. Jonathan Prim; Teacher of the School, Mr. Akintolure Olamilekan and Master of ceremony, Mr. Johnson Emole during the 2025 Victor Tulutu Briggs Foundation Spelling
L-R::
Bee Competition held in Lekki Ajah Victoria Island Lagos recently.
L-R: Regional Manager, Region Central and North, Engr. Oliver Berger; Assistant to the Managing Director, Maebelle Mercado; Managing Director, Julius Berger, Engr. Dr. Peer Lubasch and Technical Team Leader, Estimation Construction Management, Julius Berger International, Sandra Salomon, at the Julius Berger Construction Roundtable…recently
L-R: Businessman, Okwuchukwu Anapugars; Catholic Bishop of Ekwulobia Diocese, Cardinal Peter Ebere Okpaleke, and Public Relations Consultant, Arinze Anapugars, at the funeral mass held for late Lady Anastasia Anapugars (LSM) at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Ezinifite, Aguata Local Government Area, Anambra State, recently
L-R: Managing Director, Unilever Nigeria, Tobi Adeniyi; Independent Non-Executive Director, Unilever Nigeria, Ngozi Edozien; His Royal Majesty,Obi of Onitsha, Nnaemeka Achebe, CFR mni, and Independent Non-Executive Director, Unilever Nigeria, Michael Ikpoki, during a courtesy visit of the Unilever Nigeria Board and Management team to Obi of Onitsha, HRM Nnaemeka Achebe CFR mni, at the Ofala festival in Onitsha, Anambra State, recently
L-R: Nafisah Alawiye from University of Manchester; Montel Nosa Edo-Osagie from University of Birmingham; LaTanya Nosa Edo-Osagie from University of Birmingham; Olaniyan Ademola from the University of Lagos; Victory Adetutu from Adekunle Ajasin University, and Suleiman Jubril from the University of Maiduguri, all in the Law School Lagos Campus, rounded off their externship program in the Law Firm of Paul Usoro, SAN & Co., in Lagos… recently
L-R: Legal Practitioner and Intellectual Property Expert,Mr. Obafemi Agaba; Executive Head, Corporate Affairs, MultiChoice Nigeria, Caroline Oghuma; Assistant Head Girl, Kuramo Senior College, Okoro Ofonime Godwin; Sports Prefect, Kuramo Senior College, Adamu Saleh; and Principal, Kuramo Senior College, Mrs. Olubunmi Yetunde Odunlami, during the Anti-Piracy Sensitization Programme organised by Multi Choice Nigeria held at the Kuramo Senior College, Victoria Island, Lagos recently.
Adeshina
Oramah
Ribadu Has Delivered on Ogoni Oil Resumption Mandate
Sunny Hemebrim Amadi
One thing even his detractors will concede to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is that he is an adroit headhunter and knows how best to apply solutions to problems even in the most dire situations. Call it a Machiavellian approach or whatever you will, it delivers the best results.
Just like when he appointed Mallam Nuhu Ribadu as the National Security Adviser, many thought he was being political with the choice but those who cared to do a background check found out that he was following a global pattern, especially given the training and investigations his choice had been involved in. Time has always proved President Tinubu right just like his approach to the resolution of the Ogoni upland oil exploitation resumption
Ogoni has been a restive point in different regards; a resilient community with many towns and villages but tied to one fate of environmental degradation and lack of requisite development despite the vast natural endowments it is blessed with. The numerous creeks, which used to boast of vast aquatic resources with beautiful mangroves, flora and fauna, have today become a shadow of themselves, while pressures mounted by various communities and groups have moved the hands of the government to start talking of remediation that seems to take eternity to be delivered.
However, on coming to power by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, he took practical steps to address the grievances of the Ogoni, which boast of upland oil and therefore are cheaper to exploit. He plotted ways to break the logjam which led to the suspension of oil exploration in the area in 1993 after civil resistance by the people over disagreements with International Oil Companies whose alleged below standard safety exploratory and exploitatory procedures pitched them against activists, both from the area and outside it. Prior to the stoppage, different groups and interests were pitched against each other in a divide and rule style which soon led to the killing of some leaders of the area. The climax was the killing of Ogoni 9. The struggle through the Movement for the Survival of Ogoni People, MOSOP was later to claim its biggest victim in the execution of playwright and academic, Ken Saro Wiwa with Saturday Dorbee, Nordu Eawo, Daniel Gbookoo, Paul Levera, Felix Nuate, Baribor Bera, Barinem Kibble and John Kpuinen. They were alleged to have had a hand in the killing of Ogoni chiefs in 1994. Those killed were Chiefs Edward Kobani, Albert Badey, Samuel Orage, and Theophilus Orage. The entire community was later to pass through spasms of repression using soldiers like General Paul Okuntimo to violate the rights of the people in an attempted forced resumption of exploratory activities in the region. The high profile loss of lives were parts of the reason re-entering Ogoni for oil exploration was a touchy issue only a dexterous maneuverer could handle
To assuage and change direction of peaceful re-entry into Ogoniland for exploration and revival of moribund facilities, the President directed the National Security Adviser, a super cop in retirement, Ribadu who is a lawyer by profession before joining the police from where he retired. His sterling qualities ensured that he was set apart by the regime of President Olusegun Obasanjo to head the then newly created Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC as the First Chairman. A taciturn whose aversion for money and graft is legendry. He is said to be a good conflict resolution expert who would not compromise anything in the attainment of national goals.
It was therefore not a surprise to many that he was picked to break the logjam and ensure that liaising with the Nigeria National Petroleum Company, NNPC, which is the manager of the federal government interests in the oil and gas sector of the economy, to ensure that all sides were fairly
treated in the move to return to the area for oil activities. This was to be done through ensuring agreements were transparently implemented with economic revitalisation of the area and balancing the same with environmental concerns.
After several attempts in the past to resolve the problem, even to the extent that the Ogonis were made to vent their concerns at the Oputa panel, where gory tales of repressions against them were brought to light which further hardened the issues yielded no tangible results, most administrations gave up trying even when a Niger Delta son superintended the democratic governance of the country.
Now entered Ribadu with the Presidential mandate to solve the knotty issue. In his characteristic style, he went grassroots and engaged all the communities to first air their grievances, then articulate their demands, some of which fell outside the general Ogoni Bill of Rights.
The engagement was so successful that advocates of peace and reconciliation think the issue has progressed from whether oil exploration in Ogoni should commence to how the resumption would benefit the people based on widespread consultation and compilation of community expectations.
Every community made a presentation to the Ogoni Dialogue committee headed by Don Baridon, a respected academic which were held in all the local governments, where each community would make their presentations. Bori hosted the four Local governments before consultations returned to local government by local government, before it broke into community by community to ensure no community of interest was left uncaptured in the effort. Each presentation was made by the Chiefs of the area. The position papers were thereafter endorsed by chosen leaders of each community and uploaded in the website of the committee, while hard copies were also submitted to be aggregated in the final report.
In assessing if the method deployed by Ribadu to solve the Ogoni problem succeeded, there is a general agreement that it did since it has aggregated all the
views, demands and concerns of each community and came out with a single report on the modalities and meeting the expectations of the communities so that any dissent would weigh next to nothing because each community brought their representatives which covered all professions especially those familiar with oil and gas exploration as well as the traditional institutions for a lasting solution.
As it stands, Ribadu has delivered leaving the next stage to be modalities for technical resuscitation of the aged facilities which out of wear and tear or progressive technology would have gone obsolete to be replaced and the companies to operate in the area to keep to global best practices on environmental and community related issues, then resumption in Ogoni is good to go. Giving opportunities to locals as is enshrined in the Petroleum Industry Act, PIA will ensure that everyone is carried along for the peaceful operations of companies.
According to one of the high-level participants in the Ogoni dialogue and resolutions, “For this singular exercise to progress from nominations without protesting to dialogue, to meetings and successfully present a report that is literarily accepted across board, I think it has been a success story. But it will not be complete unless Ogonis get ready to be involved in the direct processes of the oil sector and that is where the Ogonis in the hydrocarbon industry come in. All that is needed is that the report should not be put under the shelf as happened before, let the committee report be implemented whether after review or rejigging”.
Ribadu sure understudied the issues and came out with a total package that covered social, economic, spiritual and other concerns of the people and pushed for pardons of the likes of Saro Wiwa and his group as well as conferment of national hounours on those Chief that were killed thereby bringing closures to their issues. This is added to the establishment of the Federal University of Environment in Ogoniland so that most of the agitations have been met while some communities around Ogoni have had oil discovered and exploited so that the feeling now is that, assuming they wake up one day to the news that there was no more oil in their land, that they would have lost their bargaining tool.
His approach has given a sense of belonging to all Ogonis which has helped to build trust and dispel the notion that each time the government engages them, the result is never implemented but with Ribadu on the saddle, promised interventions by the government like the resumption of work on sections of the East-West road was immediately activated. At the same time, the university has received its approvals and is ready to roll.
The reinvigoration of the cleanup of the Ogoni environment through the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project, HYPREP was given oxygen and driven by Ribadu, which led to the reconstitution of the boards and concrete push for faster delivery of results so that the first phase of the mangrove remediation and expansion of clean water access to over 40 communities was reported last month to have hit 94 percent completion
Also added to the gains of heading the dialogue with Ogoni, Ribadu has given a new touch to the security in the area being within his purview which was one of the concerns. He put in place modalities that has stemmed oil theft and vandalism which also polluted the environment. Ribadu did that through innovative security approaches which has seen illegal refineries and bunkering taking a hit.
As has become the fate of anything entrusted to him, Ribadu has once more etched his name in gold by delivering where others failed and Ogoni people will forever remember him as the man who inspite of all odds, attended to and solved the decades long hiatus which will enable Ogonis to once enjoy the gains of their natural endowments, the only proof that the natural endowments in the bowels of their land no longer constituted a curse; all kudos to Ribadu.
Ribadu
Bolaji Okusaga: The Man Who Hates Low Standards
He turned a struggling PR firm into an African success story, built one of Nigeria’s most promising marketing technology platforms, and still finds time for poetry, golf, and a Friday night Netflix binge. Managing Consultant, Precise Reputation Design, Bolaji Okusaga, the man who hates low standards, talks to Adedayo Adejobi about reputation, leadership and of life
By the time Bolaji Okusaga turned 54, he had learned two enduring truths: life is short, and reputations —personal or national — are never static.
“Reputation,” he says, “is constantly evolving. Once you accept you have a problem, you can build change into the equation.”
It sounds like a line from a reformist manifesto, and in many ways, Okusaga has been writing his own—one campaign, one crisis, and one idea at a time.
Public relations wasn’t love at first sight. “I didn’t deliberately go into PR,” he admits with a wry smile.
“For us to exist in society, we must relate among ourselves. It’s the quality of these relationships that determines the quality of education, service, and even civilisation.”
He began as a journalist—sharp, restless, literary—before crossing into the corporate world at Marina Bank and later Access Bank.
In 2006, he was tapped to lead Quadrant, Nigeria’s oldest PR firm, then tottering on the edge. By 2012, he had turned it around, taking it from a loss leader to one of the most profitable communications consultancies in Africa.
That same year, Quadrant won African PR Consultancy of the Year at the SABRE Awards in Brussels—the first by a Nigerian firm. “That,” he recalls, “was my proudest professional moment.” If PR once meant press releases, coffee meetings, and stacks of newsprint, Okusaga saw early that the game was changing.
“In the past, you’d go to media houses with flash drives and printed materials,” he says. “Now everything happens online. The principles remain, but the practice is changing.”
When COVID-19 brought the world to a halt, his firm pivoted quickly.
“We now deploy campaigns remotely. We run digital monitoring with analytics. Circulation may be shrinking, but readership is growing in the digital sense.”
To him, this wasn’t just adaptation—it was evolution. His firm, Precise Reputation Design, and its martech arm, Teon Engine, now blur the line between communication and computation.
Under his watch, Teon Engine launched three proprietary tools—TrendTeon, PollTeon, and SurveyTeon—each designed
to help brands understand and influence audiences in real time.
“The future agency will be tech-based,” he predicts, “aggregating intelligence and creating phenomenal value.”
TrendTeon measures influencer marketing impact in real time. PollTeon gamifies public opinion with reward-based participation, while SurveyTeon distills intelligent insights to guide brand decisions.
The vision is simple but radical: marketing powered by empathy, precision, and data—African intelligence, global execution.
For all his industry talk, Okusaga is never far from the question of Nigeria’s image—the paradox of a brilliant people trapped in a tired narrative.
“Nigeria has a reputation problem,” he says bluntly. “But once we admit that, we can evolve again. The same country that produces the bad eggs also has some of the most educated diaspora contributing immense value globally. Once leadership gets it right, we can tell a new story—with proof points.”
It’s not mere optimism. It’s strategy. “Reputation isn’t a fluke,” he adds. “It’s the reality that people experience and retell.”
If PR made him a strategist, literature made him a philosopher. Okusaga read Dramatic Arts at Obafemi Awolowo University before earning a Master’s in Communication and Language Arts from the University of Ibadan. The blend of theatre and theory is obvious in his cadence—each phrase lands like dialogue, each idea like stage direction.
He reveres Wole Soyinka and confesses to modelling much of his early ambition on him. “I wanted to be a writer,” he says. “I realised society had evolved—few sit down to read essays today. I wanted to do something more contemporary, more impactful. PR became an extension of that dream.”
He still writes poems and essays, “when time allows.” His Facebook posts, part wit and part wisdom, often go viral—mini masterclasses in philosophy disguised as social media updates.
“The world was created by God but re-created by thinkers.”
Okusaga’s intellectual north star is Obafemi Awolowo, the visionary leader of Western Nigeria in the 1950s. “Awolowo saw before his time,” he says, eyes gleaming. “He understood that development is about people, not factories. Western Nigeria
Why Nigerians Still Choose Glo
In a business landscape often dominated by profit motives, one brand continues to stand out as a truly Nigerian success story with people at its heart. Globacom, the nation’s indigenous telecommunications giant, has proven time and again that its mission goes beyond connectivity — it is about empowerment, accessibility, and shared progress.
From inception, Globacom has maintained a people-first philosophy that places affordability and value at the core of its operations. In a challenging economic environment, the company has deliberately designed products and services that respond to the needs of ordinary Nigerians. Whether it is data, voice, or value-added services, Dr. Mike Adenuga’s vision, Glo ensures that quality communication remains within reach of every income level. Its flexible pricing structure enables students, business owners, and families alike to stay connected without financial strain.
“Every innovation we introduce is guided by one simple question,” explained a Globacom spokesperson. “How can we make life better, simpler, and more affordable for Nigerians? That remains our compass.”
Globacom’s network reach and technological strength are equally impressive. With coverage extending across
all regions of Nigeria, the company has built one of the country’s most robust telecommunications infrastructures. The Glo-1 submarine cable, a major investment in high-capacity connectivity, reinforces its ability to deliver fast, reliable internet and voice services. This infrastructure not only drives economic activity but also bridges the digital divide between urban and rural areas, ensuring that no community is left behind in the digital era.
Beyond infrastructure, Glo’s operations have a tangible human and economic impact. Across the country its network supports both direct and indirect jobs — from field engineers and customer care teams to retail partners and distributors. Each connection made and job sustained are part of a long-term commitment to doing business responsibly, transparently, and in ways that support national growth.
Yet Glo’s true distinction lies in its humanity — its understanding of the everyday Nigerian experience. Through customer appreciation initiatives and national promotions, the company continually rewards loyalty and spreads optimism. These initiatives, from festive giveaways to subscriber reward schemes, are more than marketing exercises; they reflect a genuine desire to give back. Millions of Nigerians have benefited from these efforts, reinforcing Glo’s reputation as a brand that cares.
The company’s deep respect for Nigerian culture and identity further strengthens its connection with the people. By
sponsoring major traditional festivals such as Ofala, Ojude Oba, and Eyo, Globacom promotes unity, heritage, and continuity.
These commitments illustrate a belief that progress should never come at the expense of cultural pride, and that technology can coexist harmoniously with tradition.
Customer experience remains at the heart of Glo’s aspirations. The company continues to invest in technology upgrades, improved data speeds, and responsive service delivery. “Our customers are not statistics; they are the reason we exist,” remarked another spokesperson. “Their loyalty inspires us to keep improving.”
This philosophy drives every initiative, ensuring that subscribers enjoy consistent value, reliability, and care.
Globacom’s journey reflects the resilience and optimism of Nigeria itself — a nation defined by creativity, perseverance, and hope. Choosing Glo is therefore more than a commercial decision; it is a statement of belief in a brand that listens, understands, and evolves with its people.
For millions of Nigerians, Glo is not just a network; it is a symbol of connection, pride, and possibility. It is the network that gives more, cares more, and believes more — a true reflection of the Nigerian spirit.
That is why it should always be Glo — the people’s network, Nigeria’s pride, and the brand with a heart for its nation.
Ibe, wrote in from Lagos
Television came before South Africa’s. The first Olympic stadium, the Cocoa House—all from his vision. You can hate him, but you can’t fault his logic.”
To him, Awolowo belongs in the global pantheon of thinkers who reimagined their worlds. “He may never have become President,” Okusaga says, “but he remains my hero.”
If there’s one thing Okusaga cannot abide, it’s flattery. “I have an irrational hatred for sycophants,” he says. “The best love you can give a man is to tell him the truth—even if it’s tough love.” It’s an attitude that has earned him admiration and, occasionally, friction. “I suffer consequences from time to time,” he laughs, “but my good intentions usually bail me out.”
Away from the boardroom, Okusaga is disarmingly human. He doesn’t eat breakfast— “Just lemon, green tea, turmeric, and water to detox.” Fridays are sacred: Netflix nights with his wife. “It’s the only time I have to bond with her. Fridays are for movies and laughter.”
Marriage, he admits, “is a mixed bag of challenges.” He doesn’t romanticise it. “If you don’t agree, you’re pretenders in that boat. You must always find compromise.”
At 54, he reflects without sentimentality. “It tells me I’m coming of age. Life is short. I’ve got to do so much in the next 10 years to earn the retirement I want.”
He finds serenity at hole 19 of the golf course, a cold drink in hand. “Right now, I’ve lost anything called handicap,” he grins. “But I’ll get it back soon.”
“The best love you can give a man is to tell him the truth.”
When asked if politics beckons, Okusaga shakes his head. “Man is a political animal,” he concedes. “You may not be an active participant, but you can’t be apolitical. You will always have a view on what a better society should be.”
That view, for him, is a blend of pragmatism and hope—a society that prizes intellect, education, and dignity.
“Once we begin to get leadership right, it’ll have an impact on the economy,” he insists. “We can transform, and we can tell that story of transformation convincingly.”
If he were to write his epitaph, it would read simply: A father, a professional, and a thinker who tried to do his best.
It’s deceptively modest for a man whose career has helped reshape the contours of communication in Nigeria. Yet, it captures the quiet philosophy behind everything he does—the belief that thought, when disciplined, can reform institutions, industries, even nations.
Okusaga is part of a generation of African professionals who see communication not as publicity but as infrastructure—a bridge between perception and progress. “The future,” he says, “belongs to those who can blend creativity with intelligence and empathy.”
“Reputation isn’t a fluke—it’s the reality that people experience and retell.”
As our conversation ends, he checks his phone. Somewhere, a campaign is trending, a client is calling, a country’s image is wobbling. The man who once wanted to be a playwright is still scripting scenes—only now, the stage is bigger and the stakes far higher.
For Bolaji Okusaga,the performance goes on.And so does the pursuit of excellence.
emefu Ibe
Okusaga
BACKPAGE CONTINUATION
WHEN A PARENT SAYS “WELL-DONE”
that the conversation settled on the rather unsettling fact of successive Nigerian governments sometimes end up rewarding things which, though good in themselves, can never lead to lasting development should they become the major preoccupation of everyone. Overplaying certain things, to the detriment of other things that truly matter in the long run, is not the way to go. The fact that a child has a way of attracting ready attention to himself and his family, say by playing football, is not the same thing as saying that all would be well if every other child behaved in the same way.
I think back to the days of the Shagari regime in the late seventies and early eighties, then Vice President Alex Ekwueme was shown on television visiting the training camp of the national football team, the Green Eagles, at the time. We saw him on the 9pm bulletin of the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) telling the players that he had come with greetings from the president. He also said that the players should expect serious largess and financial reward from the government if they came back with the trophy. They did not.
Nevertheless, each of the players received a hefty sum of money and also, reportedly, got a house (I think) in FESTAC Town in Lagos. I also recall the comments of Segun Odegbami, one of the players, many years later on how that experience affected some of them as professional footballers. He spoke of how many of them began to ‘play safe’ and avoid undue exertion in the field, since they had already made it. It had become a matter of making more money, in order to avoid any undue risks that might jeopardize their enjoyment of life after the windfall.
The memory of this incident, along with the serial repetition of this national proclivity for treating entertainers and sports men/ women as though the future of the nation depended on them, stuck with me for years. Its repeated reinforcement in various forms over the years by successive governments, stuck in my mind and partly inspired the
very first article I sent to The Guardian newspaper from my office as a lecturer in the Philosophy Department of the University of Lagos more than 20 years later.
Coming to the present, but backtracking to 2024, we all saw the team of young Nigerians who took part in an international mathematical competition last year. They beat all contending nations, including the US, Russia, UK, China, Japan and others that ventured forward against them. With that trophy, they stood before the world as the type of human feedstock from which nations get their best scientists, astronauts, agents of development and great leaders and innovators, et all.
They were welcomed with great joy back home. They were our source of pride, despite the gloom everywhere. These youths who had emerged as symbols of excellence, a source of pride to the nation all ‘locally sourced’ from the most unlikely schools and locations in Nigeria. They were officially received by the government on return.
How much was given to each of these brilliant youngsters, who are actually outstanding markers of Nigeria’s presence and relevance in the emerging 21st century world (of questionable humanity I dare say)?
Then come 2025, and another set of young Nigerians went out to do battle in the name of their fatherland. This time it was in the game of football. They played well and out-dribbled all comers. They stopped the most daring scoring attempts and corner kicks. Then they came home with the trophy. It is to the credit of these young players that they came out for their fatherland. They fought with their blood to stand tall before the world. By this fact alone, they also made Nigeria to stand tall, and much taller, in the world of sports. Even as questions are still being raised regarding whether women should be playing football or not, their victory was generally acknowledged as a moment of glory for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Now the buts!
Unlike our locally-sourced children who
WE TRULY CAN DO BETTER
in development finance, capital market regulation, academia and humanitarian pursuits, her recent gift of a wonderfullywritten book, All Hands on Deck: Unleash Prosperity through World Class Capital Markets, reflects, more than anything else, her generosity and belief in the power of ideas to transform nations and recover what may have been lost. I was delighted to read through the very critical insights shared in the pages of my sister’s new book on how to develop and leverage the capital market to address much of the economic challenges we face as individuals and even more importantly, in the larger society.
I like the emphasis on knowledge — understanding how the system works and how nations, organisations and households can master the flow of the market to grow and preserve wealth across generations. What makes this book truly exceptional is that it was written from a place of experience with important anecdotes that break the technical elements of the discussion down for readers without extensive knowledge of economics and finance. I am particularly glad that the book offers us a clear path to resource mobilisation without the sneers that come from borrowing. I consider the book an excellent treatise on economic freedom, preservation of national sovereignty and integration of domestic financiers into the development matrix.
The new book by Arunma, beyond sharing very incisive thoughts on the pathways to prosperity through the capital market, also presents important leadership lessons and new paradigm for national
brought home the trophy for excellence in learning, some of our football trophy winners were partly ‘Tokunbo’ or imported Nigerians who became outstanding after leaving our shores. But let us leave these matters for another day.
The questions for us now are: Why would a nation give over a hundred million naira to footballers and less than 1% of that amount to purveyors of developmental possibilities and those who would end up as valuable professionals in various fields of learning. A man who struggles through decades of learning and diligent research to make an outstanding discovery gets a national handshake, a paltry sum of money and then returns to the oblivion from whence they came. That is our tradition today, in Nigeria.
But, just think back to the Athenian young man who was named Arsitocles by his parents, but who is known to the world as today as Plato. He was of aristocratic descent. His father was king, and he was in line to be king of Athens. He was one of the greatest Olympic athletes that ever lived. Unlike our Olympic games of today, wherein most athletes are restricted to just one sporting event, you could take part in multiple events; from field to track and swimming back then.
And this young athlete was said to be built like a special gift of ebullient manhood from the gods. He was barrel chested; a barrel chest like no other in the Greek Peloponnese. With Olympic competitions involving competitors from the then 150 City States of ancient Greece, everyone who did not know the name of a certain great athlete simply referred to him as ‘Platon’ (meaning: ‘The Broad One’). His performance was exceptional in most events, as he was always beating others to emerge victorious. He later abandoned both sports and the possibilities of political leadership, to follow Socrates the wise. He studied philosophy under the later. But the name he got because of his physical from during his days in the
Olympic games had taken over his real name, so he was generally known, and is still generally known to us today as Plato the Greek philosopher. He was the teacher of Aristotle, another great Greek philosopher. Plato is remembered today for his contributions to knowledge. Pele of Brazil rose to the rank of Sports Minister in his country because of his education and knowledge of other things, beyond the skill of kicking a round inflated objects in a marked pitch. Our own Segun Odegbami could become one of our best sports commentators, running his own weekly television show, because he educated himself all the way to the tertiary level.
While athletes offer entertainment and could temporarily wipe away our worries, men of knowledge, innovators and all others who make a human society possible are actually the bedrock on which a society must be built, before you can talk of entertainment. That is why a system that over-rewards peripheral things only sows the seeds of value decay and eternal sociopolitical damnation. The breakthroughs of the world came from minds, not just hands and legs at play.
Let us not get so distracted, or so selfdeluded, that we continue mouthing the illusion that the way to save Nigeria is for everyone to maintain the ‘patriotism’ that pervades everywhere during football competitions. The world we live in today did not get to where it is because people were having fun. It took science, the humanities and people possessing knowledge of various things, for footballs itself to even be produced. There have to be doctors to be treat players when they are sick or injured.
Sports equipment are produced by people whose sphere of knowledge has nothing to do with the skill of playing football as such. Just for the record.
In sum, a father who rewards those of his children who deliver ephemeral things has no idea how much effort he is putting into holding himself and his family down.
development. I am glad that this book is coming at a time when our nation appears to be at a crossroad with millions of people uncertain about the future. This is exactly the point where the author’s leadership philosophy anchored on the 4Cs of character, compassion, competence and courage has to be adopted as a national template for leadership. At the heart of our challenge is the dysfunctional leadership recruitment template that promotes chaos and mediocrity. The setbacks we have encountered in recent decades are the natural consequences of treating leadership development as a distant concern. We have ultimately become victims of a system that places scant regard on character, treats compassion as evidence of weakness, mistakes arrogance for competence and promotes the noisy over the truly courageous.
As someone who has sat on very important tables in her long career as a development professional and policy maker, Prof. Oteh appreciates the pains of missed opportunities, the misery of unrealised potential and the frustrations of lost momentum. While it would be untrue to suggest that it has been all doom and gloom, one would expect that from the interactions that would take place today and the lessons of the new book, we can do much better with the abundance of human and material resources that our country is blessed with. We live in a new era where wealth is tied to knowledge and there is a lot of advantage for us in this regard. Our people are amongst the most brilliant, innovative and enterprising
individuals in very demanding fields of science, technology and academia. The human goldmine that you find in Nigeria can effectively transform the social and economic experiences of present and future generations and ultimately lead the African development renaissance. It does not speak well of our kind that most times, the best of us only finds the right environment to unleash their brilliance outside our shores. Our route to recovery could actually be found in creating an environment for all of us to thrive — right here in our land. This we can do by rebuilding the system to reward excellence, offer equal opportunity to everyone and create multiple spaces for individuals to live out the full expression of their talents.
We may not all agree but on the evidence of what we have seen in the last 65 years of Independence, genuine social and economic development have their foundation in the human mind; without creating spaces where the mind is nurtured and exposed to noble thoughts, bold ideas and a higher philosophy of living, all models of development become illusory. This is where education and the structures of learning come into play. Prof Oteh is an excellent proof that quality education, especially at the foundational level, can make a world of difference in what a child becomes. I would, therefore, insist that the key to unlocking our rich but largely dormant human potential is the restoration of standards and values in the education sector. Beyond recruiting quality teachers, upgrading infrastructure
and instilling a strict culture of discipline in the learning environment, we also have to pay attention to curriculum development. I would like to specially thank the Federal Ministry of Education for the recent changes in basic and secondary education curriculum but as I have learnt in my interactions, developing an excellent body of curriculum is one thing, effective implementation is another, all together. To achieve the outcome that we seek, we have to be prepared to cover the entire nine yards.
The learning process in our schools must be structured to prepare the next generation for the challenges of the environment they are going to live in — not tie them to the world of their forefathers — except of course as lessons in history. The products of our school system should embody excellence, capacity for independent thinking and of course, be made to appreciate that education is only valuable when it is applied to a higher objective.
Prof Arunma Oteh at 60 remains a shining light and a brilliant example of what we are capable of becoming when leadership is driven by the commitment to make an impact. I am immensely proud of what she has achieved in her long career but even then, I know that her best years are still ahead. As the Governor of Abia where she hails from, I often find myself under a lot of pressure to build systems and institutions that would produce more Arunma Otehs.
The ChUMMIeS
GLOBAL SOCCER GLOBAL SOCCER
Alex Iwob I l e ADIN g w ITH l ege NDS
When on October 31,2015,an Hale EndAcademy,Alex Iwobi made his Premier League debut,coming on as a stoppage-time substitute for Emirates hero,Mesut Özil,inArsenal’s 3–0winatSwanseaCity,littledidheknowthatonedayhewouldbemakinghistoryinthe Englishtoptier.Lastweekend,theSuperEaglesmidfielderjoinedtheexclusive300Premier League appearances club when Newcastle hosted Fulham, to become the only Nigerian playertohaveplayed300PremierLeaguegamesandthefifthAfricantoachievethefeat
LastSaturday,SuperEaglesmidfielder, Alex Iwobi, joined the exclusive club of African players to have played 300 Premier League games as he played full 90 minutes in Fulham’s 1-2 loss to Newcastle at St. James’ Park.
Prior to last Saturday’s encounter at St. James’ Park, the Nigeria international had already sur- passed compatriot, Shola Ameobi to become Nigeria’s most-capped player in Premier League history.
By reaching 300 appearances, Iwobi cements his legacy as one of the finest Nigerians to have played in England’s top flight, while he also becomes the fifth African to achieve the feat, joining Kolo Toure (353), Mohamed Salah (309), Wilfried Zaha (305), and Jordan Ayew (305).
Iwobi has indeed expressed his happiness after beating his uncle, Austin Jay Jay Okocha and Shola Ameobi’s record in the Premier League. His record came in Fulham’s narrow 2-1 loss to Newcastle United at St James’ Park last Saturday afternoon, as the midfielder was in the starting 11 for the tightly contested match, which ultimately saw the Magpies snatch a late victory.
Speaking to Fulham’s official website after the match, Iwobi expressed his pride in surpassing these respected figures.
“It’s amazing. It’s a big achievement to lead that, with the likes of Shola Ameobi and even my uncle, who participated in the Premier League,” he said.
“It’s an honour, but I’m not done yet, I’m going to keep on going and hopefully keep the record going.”
The Super Eagles international took time to honour two Nigerian football legends who preceded him in the English top flight: his uncle, Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha, and Shola Ameobi. Okocha, a celebrated figure at Bolton Wander- ers, played in 124 Premier League matches, while Newcastle United icon Ameobi retired with 298 appearances to his name.
Iwobi’s landmark 300 appearances are dis- tributed across his time at three clubs: 100 for Arsenal, 123 for Everton, and 77 for his current side, Fulham.
The manner of Fulham’s loss to Newcastle United was, however, a tough pill for Iwobi to swallow.
“The lads fought back well and looked set to take at least a point away from St James’ Park, but a 90th minute Bruno Guimarães effort meant we left empty handed.
“Of course, we’re very disappointed,” Iwobi said. “We knew it was going to be a hard game and a tough place to come to, but if we don’t win then we shouldn’t lose, and maintain the draw.
“Unfortunately, a last minute winner is a dagger in the heart, but we have to pick ourselves up and go into next week’s game.
“Going into the second half, we had the bigger spark. Obviously, there was a lot of changes, there was a lot more dynamism going on down the flanks, so we were able to hurt them and create a few chances, but if we don’t take our chances, good teams like Newcastle can punish us.
“We were able to create chances against a great Newcastle side. We limited their chances as well, even though a couple of mistakes punished us.
“As long as we stay consistent, give 100 per cent and stay focused until 90-plus minutes, I’m sure we can get the results that we need to.”
The fixture marked Iwobi’s 300th Premier League appearance, making him the first Nigerian player to reach that milestone.
“It’s amazing,” he said. “It’s a big achievement to lead that, with the likes of Shola Ameobi and even my uncle (Jay-Jay Okocha) that’s partici pated in the Premier League.
“It’s an honour, but I’m not done yet, I’m going to keep on going and hopefully keep the record going.”
Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Iwobi moved to England as a child and progressed through
remier league encounter at St. James park played in the Premier League. Iwobi’s versatility and in-game intelligence has enabled him to slot into a number of roles from left winger to right winger to interior midfielder, capable of working his magic and threading the ball into advanced areas. He doesn’t need all the spotlight – he’s someone who is more than capable of sacrificing and playing in an “unnatural role” in order to allow other players thrive in their preferred position. Wherever he plays, Iwobi makes a difference with his ability to dribble out of tight areas, eviscerate defenses with a well-timed through ball, and use his physical prowess and close control to avoid coughing up possession and keeping the ball glued to his feet. He’s showcased his physical mettle time and time again and has proven more than capable of doing the dirty work to help his team out when“Alexrequired, Iwobi has always been a very important player for Nigeria and Fulham and that’s going to continue,” stated ex- Nigeria international, Mutiu Adepoju. “I know that he’s a very strong player, and when you’re strong psychologically, it’s easier to get things right. He’s doing things very well for Fulham this season and he’s going to continue being very important for the Nigerian national team,” added Adepoju.
Chelle Gets Ola Aina’s AFCON 25 Boost
The Super Eagles of Nigeria have been handed a huge boost ahead of theAFCON 2025 tournament over Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina.
The 29-year-old suffered a hamstring tear in Nigeria’s 1-1 draw against South Africa during the September International break.
Aina had to undergo surgery on his hamstring and was ruled out for at least three months, putting his participation in the AFCON 2025 tournament in doubt. In a video posted by the club on Aina’s birthday, the former Chelsea defender was seen taking part in physio sessions to help his hamstring regain elasticity.
Ahead of their Premier League clash against Manchester United this weekend, Forest manager, Sean Dyche revealed that the Nigerian right-back is making progress in his recovery
journey and isn’t far from firstteam action.
ment,” the former Everton boss concluded about the injuries.
“I have made a note of them because we have got a couple of knocks,” Dyche said in his pre-match press conference.
“Angus Gunn hasn’t been playing but is part of the squad, but he has opened up his knee ligaments.
“Woody (Chris Wood) is going to be possible for the Leeds game. He won’t make this one. We will have to see how that goes.
“Ola (Aina) is making good progress. Zinchenko is a no at themoment,unfortunately,and it is going to be a bit longer than we thought.
“Bakwa (Dilane) is still a no, but is making good progress. I’m having to read them off a list so I don’t forget them.
“We’rehopingnomoreoccur, that’sforsure.Afewknocks, but nothing too serious at the mo-
Since Aina got injured against South Africa, no right-back has played for Nigeria. Instead, FCV Dender defender, Benjamin Frederick has been the makeshift full-back.
The Brentford loanee has performed well in an unfamiliar role, but Aina’s absence has been felt. The synergy at the back and the runs bombing forward were missed in the remainder of the World Cup qualifiers.
With his return on the horizon, Eric Chelle can bank on some experience at the back since he’s been slowly dropping the captain, William Troost-Ekong from the Super Eagles starting lineup.
A specific return date for the former Fulham man is yet to be stated, but if his recovery goes well, he should be available for Nigeria’sAFCON 2025 campaign in Morocco.
Atalanta Bemoans S’Eagles Duty Effect on Lookman’s Training Sessions
Atalanta manager, Ivan Juric has disclosed that Nigerian forward, Ademola Lookman has not been able to train fully in recent weeks due to his national team commitments with the Super Eagles.
Lookman, who had endured a slow start to the season without a goal or assist in his first six matches across all competitions, finally opened his account in Atalanta’s 1-1 draw against AC Milan at the Gewiss Stadium on Tuesday night.
Speaking ahead of Atalanta’s Serie A clash with Udinese, Juric
acknowledged the 28-year-old’s quality but noted that his involvement with the national team had limited his preparation time
“He’s coming off a difficult period, and he’s worked little in recent weeks, partly due to his national team commitments,” Juric was quoted as saying by Tutto Atalanta.
“I wanted to give him a lot of play to help him regain his rhythm and confidence.”
The Croatian coach, however, expressed optimism that Lookman is gradually regaining his form
and growing into the team again.
“He can be decisive both from the start and during the game. He just needs to continue to grow, but I see him increasingly becoming part of the team,” he added.
Lookman had a challenging start to the campaign following an unsuccessful attempt to force a move to Inter Milan during the summer transfer window.
Since being reintegrated into the squad, he has struggled to hit top form but will be aiming to build on his goal against Milan when Atalanta face Maduka Okoye’s Udinese today.
London Derby Tops Premier League MatchDay 10 on SuperSport
The Premier League enters its 10th week, with title ambitions, survival battles and managerial pressure brewing.
League leaders, Arsenal, play at Burnley today at 4:00 pm. The match, as every other game of the weekend, will be live on DStv and GOtv. The fixture airs on SS Football (GOtv Ch. 61, DStv Ch. 205).
At the same time, NottinghamForesthostManchester United. The London derby at 6:30 pm sees Tottenham host Chelsea. Thomas Frank’s Spurs are flying high in third after a 3–0 win over Everton, while Chelsea are still reeling from a 2–1 league loss to Sunderland last weekend. Later at 9:00 pm, Liverpool face Aston Villa at Anfield in a pressure-filled encounter. Arne Slot’s champions have lost four straight league matches, the latest a 2-3 defeat to Brentford.
Villa, fresh from a 1–0 win over Manchester City, will back themselves to extend Liverpool’s slump.
Sunday’s action concludes with Manchester City hosting Bournemouth at 5:30 pm. Pep Guardiola’s side will aim to recover from their defeat to Villa and maintain pressure onArsenal, having beaten Swansea in the Carabao Cup earlier in the week. Bournemouth, the surprise of the season in second place, will relish the challenge of facing the champions at the Etihad.
Akpomudje Set for Competitive 7th Edition of GCU Relays
Olorogun Albert Akpomudje SAN, the President General Worldwide, Government College Ughelli Old BoysAssociation and the Deputy Chairman of the Body of Benchers in Nigeria will preside over the seventh edition of the annual GCU Relays.
An event that could pass as his final Relays as PGWW, given the succession tradition and rituals of the GCUOBA Worldwide.
“It’s been a most interesting period in delivering past editions of the annual GCU Relays, and
to think that this 7th edition could be the last that I would preside over before the end of my tenure and the subsequent transitiontomywould-be successor,itbehovesmetodeliverthebest GCURelaysever”,hesaid.
For the umpteenth time, Apomudje hasgivenfurtherassurancesofauniquely differentandcompetitive7theditionofthe annualGCURelays. Akpomudjedisclosedthatorganisational structureshavebeenputinplacetodeliver the most colourful and competitive edition of the Athletic Meet.
The event, hosted under the
auspices of the Old BoysAssociation, has been confirmed for November 22, 2025,attheSchoolTartanTracks,which were built by NNPC/Shell Petroleum Development Company but are now in need of refurbishment.
“Having confirmed the date for this year’s 7th edition, we have commenced early preparations by reaching out to our potential sponsors - Companies and Old Boys, with a view to raising the required funds needed for a glamorous event, which the 7th edition represents”, remarked PGWW, Chief Albert Akpomudje.
Sponsor Promises to Sustain Senator Abiru Mixed Team Table Tennis Championships
The sponsor and intiator of the Senator Abiru Mixed Team Table Tennis Championships, Senator Mikhail Abiru has vowed that the first mixed team table tennis tournament in Africa which is in its second edition would not be a one off championship as provision has been put in place to ensure it is sustained.
The championship, which served off on Thursday at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall of the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, will end today.
“The championship was born with the vision and mission to provide opportunities for Nigerian youths to excel and everything has been put in place at ensuring its sustainability,” Abiru expressed.
“Our youth development philosophy goes beyond classrooms and computer labs. The discipline, focus,
and teamwork that make great innovators are the same traits that define great athletes.
“It was on this belief that we launched the Senator Abiru Mixed Team Table Tennis Championships in 2024, the first of its kind in Africa, as a platform to celebrate excellence, inclusion, and community spirit through sports,” he said.
Meanwhile, with the defending champions absent this year, the battle for the top prize has been fierce. On Day 1, 14 teams
were eliminated after failing to place among the top two in their respective groups. A total of 42 matches were played on the opening day, setting the stage for an intense knockout round on Day 2, which determined the finalists.
Top-seeded teams from Lagos, Edo, and Ondo lived up to expectations, while visiting teams from Togo and Benin Republic also impressed, advancing to the knockout stage. Many matches were fiercely contested, often decided by narrow margins.
Explaining the reasons behind Nivea Men global partnership with Real Madrid, Toyo said, “Well, first of all, it’s a global partnership; it’s not just Nigeria. We wanted to partner with a football brand — a football club that shares our values. If you look at Real Madrid, they are stylish, embody confidence, and display precision on the field. Nivea Men also brings out the natural confidence in men, and we have that twist of German precision. So, these are two beautiful brands coming together to celebrate football. And you know men love football, so it’s a fantastic opportunity for us to connect with the interests of our consumers.”
On the reason behind the El Clásico Watch Party.
“You know, whenever Real Madrid and Barcelona meet, it’s not just a football match — it’s a triumphant day, a cultural celebration, a monumental historical event. So, whenever we have these El Clásico matches, we try to put together a Watch Party to bring our consumers together, get them out of their homes, and create opportunities for them to connect. It’s about watching one of the most anticipated matches of the year together and celebrating the essence and brilliance of Nivea Men,” Toyo expressed.
For her, while fans are enjoying the event, they should also expect consistency from Nivea partnership with Real Madrid.
“Number one, expect our consistency. We just signed a renewal of our partnership with Real Madrid for the next five years, so this collaboration will continue long-term. Fans should continue to expect excitement, brilliance, innovation, and great things from Nivea. We’ll keep delivering the same quality we’ve always provided while continuing to delight our consumers.
“Nivea Men is just unique. It is confidence personified. It helps men bring out their natural confidence to shine, to go out there and get that business deal, or land the job they want. Our
new product, which features Max Tech, gives deep moisturisation, long-lasting hydration, intense fragrance, and allows men to truly be themselves,” she said.
Asked if there are any innovations or products that Nivea is introducing to the Nigerian market. “Yes, I’d like to share that this year we launched a new sunscreen. We didn’t previously have sunscreen in the Nigerian market, so we introduced the Nivea Shine Control Sunscreen for the face, which protects both men and women from harmful sun rays. We also launched the Nivea Cocoa Body Lotion in a smaller pack to make it more affordable for consumers, as well as the new Nivea Men Extreme Roll-On. So, expect more exciting innovations next year and beyond,” Toyo noted.
On how has working with Nivea brought her closer to football, more especially as a Real Madrid fan, she reacted thus: “You know what, let me be very honest. I always used to support Nigeria during the World Cup, and I never had a team from La Liga. But since joining Nivea and seeing the precision, excellence, and discipline of not just Nivea but also our partners at Real Madrid, I’ve fallen in love with the team.
Ola Aina in training
end-to-end action during the ongoing 2nd Senator Abiru Mixed Team Table Tennis Championships
Senator Tokunbo Abiru and president ITTF, enitan wahid Oshodi during the press conference to herald the 2nd Senator Abiru Mixed Team Table Tennis Championships
• New champions to emerge as curtain draws on championship today
Fiyin Toyo: Partnership with Real Madrid Reflects Excellence, Shared Values
Toyo
When a Parent Says “Well-done”
The group conversation started innocuously enough. The major protagonist was raising issues about the impact of reward and punishment on the behaviour, attitudes and overall character of people, particularly the youths. He argued that there was nothing wrong with using any and everything possible to promote and project whatever you want at any particular point in time. But when he went further to use as an example the over one hundred and fifty million Naira given to the triumphant female football team to buttress his point, the conversation took an entirely new dimension. And that is how I got dragged into the melee.
My first salvo was to say that a parent who excitedly says “well done”, or gives something to one of his children for doing
something, is signaling to the other children what to do in order to be in reckoning with him. But what if the parent is rewarding
a child who is actually not making lasting contribution to sustainable family values?
Just think back to a hypothetical situation, wherein a child has just finished doing some tough bit of house work. He makes no noise about it. The task he accomplished is one of the less visible and less readily praised tasks that contribute to making a home really homely. Rather than doing the more easily seen and demonstrative tasks at home, he is more interested in doing the needful, the important and the ultimately meaningful, than the visible, the dramatic and the flattering.
Another child may opt for showy duties that attract praise. He would return from loafing about, wash a plate or two and declare force majeure, by displaying a wound on his little finger where a fork scraped it. This second child may actually be regularly rewarded
with praise, and treated preferentially for frequently announcing how some neighbours or teachers praised him as a good product of the family he came from.
A child of this second type may form the habit, over time, of always cleaning the parent’s shoes or wiping the centre table in the parlour, and then jumping up at the opportune moment to announce the wonderful work he/she has done. It is visible. Everyone can see it. It is announced with fanfare. So, who can deny it?
Forthwith, the other children are urged by the unwise parent to observe the great deed(s) of their sibling. They are also then most likely to be advised to emulate the one that ‘knows how to make a parent happy’. And it in the context of these thoughts
Continued on page 35
We Truly Can Do Better
Every society thrives or falls on the strength of the ideas developed and propagated by its thought leaders — the individuals whose opinions direct the ebbs and flows of public conversation, morality and values.
The development gap that exists between nations is clearly not about the quantity of mineral resources buried beneath its soil or the presence or absence of other natural body of advantages. After about 100 years of development studies, it has been proven that natural resources, when not paired with the requisite human intellect to make the most of it, can in itself become an albatross to a society’s development aspirations.
Everyone in this room knows perhaps a dozen countries around the world that
developed with minimal income from crude mineral extraction. In the same vein, I am also certain that all of us know another dozen countries or more that are blessed with abundant natural resources, and yet, genuine development remains elusive. It then follows that prosperity requires more than just huge deposits of raw minerals. Long-term progress is initiated and sustained by the discipline of leadership, the power of ideas and the courage of execution. Development is therefore a human function — a rigorous intellectual exercise and the end product of blistered hands. It is not for nothing that societies that seek progress prioritise education and human capital development for without a critical mass of individuals committed to making the most of the natural resources found within their environment, the largest
deposits of precious minerals will only amount to little and could actually trigger undesirable outcomes. The good news, however, is that no matter how far off a society may have strayed from the path of progress, there is always a way back; for no destiny is final and no course is irreversible. Today we have gathered for what is effectively a rich festival of ideas and harvest of brilliance in the diverse frontlines of human commitments. I am impressed with the general sense of gratitude in acknowledging that we are a blessed people. It is also noble that even in our gratitude, we have clearly not lost sight of the fact that on several scores, we have betrayed the lofty dreams that inspired our fathers to fight for an independent Nigeria. It is my considered view that we are still not too far gone to rediscover the
promise of Nigeria and rise collectively to take our place in destiny. Let me on this note, thank the founder of the Oxford Global Think Tank — one of our country’s brightest exports — Prof Arunma Oteh, — for convening this event and for the excellent use of her platform to consistently point us to the right path. May I use this auspicious occasion to specially appreciate this revolutionary amazon for her brilliant and peerless contributions to the holistic development of the human community, especially in Nigeria and across Africa. While it is beyond dispute that the former Treasurer and Vice President of the World Bank has distinguished herself through decades of active leadership and service
