NGX Transactions Surge 99% to N6.92trn in Eight Months
With inflation declining, MPC faces pivotal choices
Nume Ekeghe and Kayode Tokede
Foreign and domestic investors' transactions on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX)
increased by 99.03 per cent year-on-year (YoY) to N6.92 trillion in the first eight months of 2025, compared to the N3.48 trillion recorded in the comparable period in 2024.
This is as members of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) who will hold their 302nd meeting from Monday, are faced with a delicate moment due to
the moderation in inflation. The declining inflationary pressure offers policymakers a rare window to recalibrate interest rates, but the choices they make now could shape the direction of growth,
investment, and stability in the months ahead.
The Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures the rate of change in prices of goods and services, dropped to 20.12 per
cent in August, compared to 21.88 per cent in the preceding month, National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) revealed on Monday, this week.
Fubara: Peace Cheaper Than War, Urges Rivers People to Unite
Blessing Ibunge
Governor Siminalayi Fubara yesterday called on the people of Rivers State to embrace unity and reconciliation, stressing that peace, no matter how costly, remains cheaper than war. Reflecting on the six months of emergency rule that followed a bitter political crisis in the State, the Governor in a State broadcast in Port Harcourt on resumption of office after his six months suspension, admitted that the period was fraught with difficulties but offered valuable lessons.
He expressed deep gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his
State Governor,
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (right) during a courtesy visit to the former First Lady of Nigeria, Aisha Buhari in Kaduna… yesterday
Rivers
Siminalayi Fubara and his wife, Valerie, acknowledging cheers from supporters on arrival at the Port Harcourt Airport…yesterday
Kemi Olaitan
The ancient city of Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, is in a fecund mood for the coronation of the 44th Olubadan
in Port Harcourt
Shoprite Nigeria Gets New Funding to Boost Growth, Retail Turnaround
Sunday Ehigiator
Retail Supermarkets Nigeria Limited (RSNL), the operator of Shoprite supermarkets in Nigeria, has announced fresh investor backing that underscores confidence in the company’s future and its long-term commitment to the Nigerian market.
In a statement yesterday, RSNL stated that the investment provides the capital base to accelerate Shoprite’s turnaround strategy and marks a renewed phase of growth for Nigeria’s leading supermarket operator.
The company acknowledged that the past period “has been challenging for the wider retail sector in Nigeria, with rising costs and liquidity pressures affecting operations.”
The company however stated that it began a process to address the pressure and was now firmly focused on delivering its turnaround strategy with the support of its new investors.
As part of this renewed phase, “RSNL is meeting past and present obligations to suppliers, reinforcing long-standing partnerships built on trust, and focusing
on partnerships with Nigerian entrepreneurs to fully localise its supply chain. The company added that its priority was to ensure that its customers
continue to enjoy affordable, high-quality products.
“RSNL is also driving efficiency and operational discipline — expanding
local sourcing, with over 80 percent of its assortment already produced in Nigeria, introducing affordable private label products and value
pricing, and investing in energy optimisation, productivity improvements, and modern store formats tailored to Nigerian shoppers.”
NCAA, FCTA Declare Index Suspect Negative of Ebola Virus
Residents doctors call off strike
Olawale Ajimotokan and Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
The FCT Administration has officially declared that there was no case of Ebola in the territory after the index patient, who returned from Rwanda, suspected of having the virus that causes haemorrhagic tested negative for Ebola and Marburg disease. Equally, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) confirmed the development.
Doctors announced the calling off of their indefinite strike, after all their demands, including unpaid arrears, were approved by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
Also yesterday, FCT Resident
FUBARA: PEACE CHEAPER THAN WAR, URGES RIVERS PEOPLE TO UNITE
decisive intervention, which according to him, restored democratic governance and stability, vowing never to take the President’s kindness and sincerity for granted.
Tinubu had announced the emergency rule on March 18, 2025, following an irreconcilable political crisis between the executive and legislative arms.
The President, to ensure a continuous activity in the State, had appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd) as a Sole Administrator. However, on September 17, 2025, the President announced an end of the emergency rule and reinstated the suspended Governor, his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, and members of the State House of Assembly, led by Martins
Amaewhule, directing them to continue their democratic functions in the State.
Following the lifting of the emergency, Rivers people in their thousands had stormed the Government House gate, in their various joyful displays seeking to hear from the Governor, but on Thursday, the Governor was yet to arrive Port Harcourt, and they were disappointed.
But despite the disappointment they felt on Thursday, indigenes and residents of Rivers trooped out in their thousands again yesterday, to welcome Governor Fubara at the domestic wing of the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa.
At about 12:19pm, Fubara, who was accompanied by his deputy, his wife, Valerie Fubara
and Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie, touched down at the Airport in a private aircraft. He greeted his supporters and some of the statesmen who were at the Airport to welcome him.
THISDAY, present at the airport, also observed that the Governor went outside the premises of the VIP wing, to greet the Rivers people who were at the venue to cheer him up.
Arriving at the Government House, the Governor was received by security chiefs in the State, where, while addressing the press, he assured his continuous bond with the people of Rivers State. Meanwhile, during his broadcast about 6 pm yesterday, the Governor, who narrated how he and other democratic officers of the state were suspended,
appreciated Tinubu for restoring peace in the State.
“However, nothing has been irretrievably lost; there remains ample opportunity for necessary adjustments, continued reconciliation, and inclusiveness. We must all remember the saying, ‘the costliest peace is cheaper than the cheapest war," Fubara said.
He pointed out that in the past six months, the State had been in serious challenge.
He recalled that, “Rivers State was placed under a six-month emergency rule, declared by Mr. President, His Excellency President Bola Tinubu, on March 18, 2025, following the intense political crisis in our State. It is without doubt that the last six months had been enormously challenging for our dear State
ALL SET FOR LADOJA’S CORONATION AS 44TH OLUBADAN
of Ibadanland, Oba (Senator) Rasidi Ladoja.
For any visitor entering the city, it would not be difficult to know that a grand event is in the offing, no thanks to large billboards placed in strategic places by prominent indigenes and politicians from the city congratulating the former governor on his ascension to the throne of his forefathers. Also, varieties of Aso Ebi have been bought to mark the historic occasion.
Indeed, the organisers which comprise of two committees with one set up by the state government and the other by
the umbrella body of Ibadan indigenes, the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) have unveiled a comprehensive eightday timeline of events stretching from Monday, September 22 to Saturday, October 4, that reflects the spiritual depth and cultural richness of the traditional heritage of Ibadanland.
The celebrations will begin with a special inter-religious prayer session at the Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, while later in the day, the cultural spotlight shines on the command performance of ARUSA, a stage play dramatising the lineage and legacy of Ibadan kingship.
On Tuesday, the heartbeat of the city will echo through music, dance, and artistry during a special coronation cultural fiesta at the Olubadan Stadium to be followed on Wednesday with the first Coronation Lecture expected to contextualise the significance of the Olubadan throne within Yoruba and African history and to be delivered by renowned historian Prof. Toyin Falola at the International Conference Centre (ICC), University of Ibadan.
The fourth day (Kabiyesi’s Birthday) will begin with a special birthday Islamic prayer session at the Olubadan House, Oke Aremo, at 11:00 a.m., followed
by a mega praise and worship concert – a celebration of faith and festivity.
The centrepiece of the historic celebrations unfolds on day five - Coronation day - at Mapo Hall, where the former governor will officially be crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland and is expected to draw dignitaries, traditional rulers, and political leaders from across Nigeria and beyond with a grand reception following at the historic Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, promising pageantry and cultural splendor.
Other activities lined up include a Christian Thanksgiving service on Day Six at The Cathedral
NGX TRANSACTIONS SURGE 99% TO N6.92TRN IN EIGHT MONTHS
Following the rate cuts by central banks of Ghana, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and the US Federal Reserve, all eyes are now focused on Nigeria’s MPC as its two-day meeting commences Monday.
For the NGX, THISDAY had reported that market capitalisation gained N26 trillion in the first eight months of 2025, as renewed investor confidence, bold reforms, and corporate resilience fuel a historic rally on the bourse.
According to the latest “domestic & foreign portfolio participation in equity trading” report released by the Exchange yesterday, total transactions by foreign and domestic represented a new record for the stock market, driven by Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) and domestic high network investors increasing participation.
The report revealed that in the eight months of 2025, Foreign Portfolio Investments (FPIs) accounted for N1.45 trillion,
about a 122 per cent YoY increase over N655.47 billion in the eight months of 2024, while domestic investors accounted for N5.46 trillion in the first eight months of 2025. This represented an increase of 94 per cent YoY from N2.82 trillion in the first eight months of 2024.
The report by NGX showed that the proportion of foreign investors increased to 21.01 per cent in the first eight months of 2025, as against the 18.86 per cent in the comparable period in 2024.
However, the proportion of domestic investors' participation in the stock market dropped from 78.99 per cent between January and August 2025, from 81.14 per cent in same period of 2024.
According to the report, domestic institutional investors' transactions moved from N1.37trillion in the first eight months of 2024, to N3.13 trillion, while domestic retail investors’ transactions stood at
N2.3 trillion in the first eight months of 2025, from N1.45 trillion in same period in 2024.
Furthermore, the report indicated upbeat across the buy and sell sides of foreign transactions as foreign inflows stood at N705.87 billion in the first eight months of 2025, from N299.73 billion in same period in 2024.
Also, outflows on the other hand, moved from N355.74 billion in the first eight months of 2024 to N7748.23 billion in the comparable period of 2025.
The surge in foreign investors' participation in the Nigerian stock market could be attributed the reforms by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in the foreign exchange market aimed at enhancing transparency, compliance, and market stability.
The reforms were part of the CBN’s broader strategy to create a fairer, more stable foreign exchange market and support economic growth through better monetary policies.
Additionally, analysts attributed the upbeat in the stock market to the increasing attractiveness of the Nigerian market to foreign investors, ongoing economic reforms, resilient earnings by Nigerian companies, exchange rate differential, ongoing banking recapitalisation and the reform in the oil sector.
The Vice President, Highcap Securities Limited, Mr. David Adnori, in a chat with THISDAY, attributed the growth in foreign investors' participation to the federal government efforts in resolving foreign exchange backlogs, stressing that it increased investors’ confidence and sustained rally in the stock market.
“The increase in yield on debt instruments attracted foreign investors to the debt market. The combination of all these factors increased FPI into the capital market.
“In summary, Nigeria’s high-yield environment, recent regulatory reforms, a large and
The Mandate Secretary, Health and Environmental Services, Dr Dolapo Fasawe disclosed the status of the Ebola suspect to the media yesterday. She also assured the passengers aboard the Rwanda Air that flew the index suspect to Abuja and were all traced for Ebola protocol not to entertain any anxiety as the case was negative.
under the emergency rule”.
Fubara said he adhered to the state of emergency declared by the President, because he was convinced that no sacrifice was too great to secure peace, stability, and progress in Rivers State.
According to him “This was why I also resisted the pressure to challenge the constitutionality of the declaration of a state of emergency, the suspension of democratic institutions, and all other actions that we endured during this difficult period.
“In the course of the six months, Mr. President graciously brokered the peace process with all the parties. Our Leader, His Excellency, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly and I, as your Governor, have all accepted
Church of The Ascension, New Bodija, Ibadan, followed by a civic reception at Ibadan Civic Centre; special Jumat service at the Central Mosque, Oja’ba on Day Seven expected to bring the Muslim community together in thanksgiving prayers for the new Olubadan and will be rounded up with a traditional thanksgiving Isese ceremony at Osemeji, Oja’ba on Saturday, October 4, to pay homage to the deep-rooted customs and ancestral heritage of the ancient city.
The stool of Olubadan, which is the supreme leadership position in Ibadan, was founded in the 19th century and characterised by
growing market, and supportive international signals make it an attractive destination for foreign investors seeking growth and diversification,” he added.
For his part, Managing Director, Arthur Steven Asset Management, Mr Olatunde Amolegbe, said the ongoing banking recapitalisation and the reforms in the oil sector have driven more investors to the market.
The former president of Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS), explained further: “We’ve seen increasing return of foreign portfolio investors, I understand the turnover by FPIs has grown significantly in the last few months.
“This can be attributed to the weaker naira that makes Nigerian stocks a bargain for FPIs. Secondly, new listings such as Aradel also boosted investors’ appetite for stocks. This can also be seen in the light of the approval of the Exxon Mobil’s acquisition by Seplat by the Federal Government.
“Thirdly, the banking
to bury the hatchet and embrace peace and reconciliation in the best interest of our dear Rivers State”.
He said the parties believe the political crisis was now a thing of the past, noting that peace and stability have once again returned to the State, though not without the hard lessons learnt from the emergency rule.
“The responsibility now rests squarely on us: The government, the State House of Assembly, political leaders and stakeholders to put aside our differences, work for the common good, and advance the interests of our people above all else. We have a duty to ensure that the peace we have all embraced remains permanent in our dear Rivers State.
a unique merit-based rotational succession system rather than hereditary rule, which alternates between the civil (Otun) and military (Balogun) chieftaincy lines. This system ensures experienced, seasoned leaders from any social class ascend through the chieftaincy ladder to the Olubadan title, symbolizing Ibadan's cultural unity, continuity, and rich traditions as the paramount ruler. What is important, however, is that when an Olubadan dies, a vacancy is filled by the most senior chief from the next line in the rotational order.
recapitalisation exercise along with impressive second quarter reports have continued to attract investments towards that sector.”
Analysts at Coronation, in a report, stated that fuel subsidy removal, liberalisation of the forex market, and monetary policy tightening reforms by the present administration have played a pivotal role in turning the tide.
The firm, in a report titled “Nigeria’s Bold Economic Reforms: How Investors Can Benefit from New Opportunities in 2025,” said the government, through CBN, removed its hard peg on the Naira and allowed the exchange rate to be influenced more by market forces.
“This removed the subsidy on some US Dollar payments as well as the preferential treatment of some interests. Alongside this, the CBN cleared a backlog of dollar claims from previous years, which improved confidence in the market,” the firm explained.
OGUN WOOS INVESTORS...
L-R: Strategic Adviser, MAC Group, Fayad Fayad; Ogun
PDP NWC Directs S’South Zonal Caretaker Committee to Oversee Cross River Chapter
Reschedules proposed repeat congress in Anambra, Ebonyi Party should micro zone presidency to South-east if there’s honesty, says Ulasi
The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has directed its South-south Zonal Caretaker Committee to immediately take charge of the affairs of its Cross River chapter.
It has rescheduled the proposed 2025 repeat Ward, Local Government and State Congress in Anambra and Ebonyi states.
This was as a former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Anambra State, Dan Ulasi, yesterday challenged the party to micro-zone its presidential ticket for 2027 to the South-east if there is honesty within it.
The party in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, directed the committee to oversee the affairs of the party until the conduct of the state congress scheduled for
Saturday, September 27.
Ologunagba said that the directive issued at the NWC meeting of Thursday was sequel to the expiration of the tenure of the elected Cross River State Executive Committee on September 18.
He said that the decision was to ensure that there was no vacuum in the affairs of the party before the emergence of a new state executive for the chapter.
“By this, the South-south Zonal Caretaker Committee led by Chief Emmanuel Ogidi is directed to liaise with the NWC for the conduct of the year 2025 congress in Cross River to elect a new executive committee for the chapter on Saturday September 27.
“The NWC charges all leaders, stakeholders and members of our party in Cross River to remain united, steadfast and continue to work together in the overall interest and progress
Bayelsa Clears N12bn Gratuity Backlog
Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa
Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has received commendation from the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) for clearing a N12 billion backlog of gratuities owed to retired staff of eight local government councils in the state.
Owing to this, NULGE honoured Diri, as the ‘Best Governor on Local Government Reforms in Nigeria’.
NULGE President, Aliyu Kankara, presented the award to the governor in Yenagoa, during a conference on ‘Promoting Local Government Workers’ Welfare: The Bayelsa Model’.
Kankara said Diri’s achievements include transforming the local government system in the state through the introduction of fiscal policy reforms that repositioned the third tier of government for better service delivery, staff welfare,
regular promotions and financial benefits.
The NULGE president said implementation of N80,000 minimum wage for council workers and an additional 25 and 30 per cent salary increase as well as the government’s support to councils in the payment of primary school teachers salary were some of the heart-warming testimonies of the union members.
He described as unprecedented the governor’s timely payment of pensions and gratuities to local government retirees, saying Bayelsa was the first state in the country to pay retirement entitlements immediately after service.
He said, “The Governor of Bayelsa State has excelled where many other state governors have failed in human capital development by prioritising the welfare of workers in the state, particularly those at the grassroots level.
of our great party in the state,” Ologunagba stated.
On rescheduling of the proposed repeat congress in Anambra, Ebonyi, the party in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Ologunagba, yesterday said that the new dates for the congress initially scheduled for Saturday, September 20, Wednesday, September 24 and Monday,
September 29 respectively would be communicated in due course. Ologunagba said that the decision of the NWC was necessitated by the need for more consultations among the leaders, stakeholders and members of PDP in the respective states so as to ensure a smooth conduct of the exercise.
“All aspirants, leaders, stakeholders and members of our
party in Anambra and Ebonyi, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, democracy development partners, the media and the public should take note accordingly.”
He urged all PDP members in the two states to remain united and continue to work together for the overall interest and progress of the party.
Meanwhile, Ulasi made the call yesterday while speaking on The Morning Show on Arise Television. He explained that although the PDP had zoned the presidency to the South, equity demands that the South-east should have the slot since it remains the only southern region yet to produce a president under the current dispensation.
In Tribute, Tinubu Remembers Mama HID Awolowo 10 Years After Demise
Mourns Prof. Oyinade Elebute
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to the matriarch of the Awolowo family, Chief (Mrs.) Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo, 10 years after her death.
The President, in a posting on his verified X handle, @ APBAT, titled 'Tribute to Mama HID Awolowo', described late Mama Awolowo as a guiding light to generation of Nigerians who drew inspiration from her
example showing what it means to live with faith, discipline, and love for country.
President Tinubu in the tribute stated, inter alia: "Ten years may have passed, but the memory of Mama HID Awolowo, the matriarch of the Awolowo family, remains fresh with deep respect in the heart of our nation. Mama Awolowo was a pillar of courage and dignity who stood firmly beside Chief Obafemi Awolowo and carried his legacy with uncommon
strength.
"Mama HID was more than a wife and mother. She stood beside Chief Obafemi Awolowo through trials and triumphs, carrying his legacy forward with grace and courage. In doing so, she became a mother not only to her family but also a guiding light for generations of Nigerians who drew inspiration from her example, showing what it means to live with faith, discipline, and love for country.
"As we remember her today, we celebrate a life of service and sacrifice that continues to inspire us as we work together to build a just, united, and prosperous Nigeria.
"May your legacy continue to live on, Mama Awolowo."
Also yesterday, President Tinubu extended heartfelt condolences to the Elebute family on the passing of their beloved mother, grandmother, and matriarch, Prof. Oyinade Elebute.
Respect Our Laws or Be Sanctioned, NCAA Tells Qatar Airways, Air Maroc, Others
Kasim Sumaina in Abuja
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has warned Qatar Airways, Royal Air Maroc and Saudi Air about certain infractions and failing to comply with the country's stipulated laws, saying they will be sanctioned heavily.
The NCAA also frowned at the airlines’ continued nonchalant attitude in treating Nigeria’s laws with contempt, while respecting regulations across Europe and elsewhere, “is not ideal and must be brought to a complete and final stop”.
A statement issued by
the Director, Public Affairs/ Consumer Protection, NCAA, Michael Achimugu, read: "I understand that some countries do not have advanced aviation consumer protection regulations like Nigeria does.
"In certain cases, some countries don't even have any. This creates a situation where airlines operating out of those countries (mostly national carriers) act with disdain towards consumer protection enforcement in Nigeria."
Achimugu in his X handle (former Twitter) said “the airline @qatarairways has carried on as though Nigerian passengers and
the NCAA are not deserving of their respect, dignified treatment, and compliance with Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023. This will be brought to a stop immediately.”
According to him, "A member of this airline's cabin crew claimed that, while she was wheeling a passenger during boarding for a flight from Lagos to the US via Doha, a male passenger who was travelling with his wife had touched her butt.
"She did not report this incident in Lagos. On arrival in Doha, she made an allegation against this passenger, leading
to his arrest and detention for about eighteen hours.
"During this period, his wife suffered mental, physical, and psychological trauma without any form of care. She wondered how her husband could have committed such a despicable infraction given that she was with him throughout the boarding process.
"The authorities in Doha made the man pay a hefty fine and forced him to sign a document written only in Arabic! Desperate for freedom to proceed on his journey to the US, the passenger signed a document with contents he did not understand.
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun and Head, PR and Communications, Hassan Fayad, shortly after discussing the citing of a Disneyland Resort, the first in Africa, an investment of about $2.5 billion in Ogun State…yesterday
GLAD TO MEET YOU...
Kwankwaso: No Rush to
Quit NNPP, Any Alliance With APC Must Be Hinged on Benefits
Former Governor of Kano State and the national leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has expressed willingness to return to the All Progressives Congress (APC), only if there are clear agreements ensuring recognition for his political movement.
Speaking during a meeting with NNPP stakeholders in Kano on Wednesday, Kwankwaso recalled the role he played in the formation of the APC,
stressing that he and his allies paid the price to build the party but were sidelined throughout its eight years in power under President Muhammadu Buhari.
Kwankwaso said he felt betrayed as he and his allies were ignored during President Buhari’s eight-year tenure. He boasted that as founders of the APC, nobody in Nigeria can measure the hardship and difficulty they incurred during the formation of the party.
"We were in the leadership then, because we had more experience understanding how
ARISE IIP Completes $700m Capital Raising, Welcomes New Shareholder, Vision Invest
Sunday Okobi
ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms (ARISE IIP), developer of the IPR Free Zone, in partnership with Ogun State, has announced the successful completion of a landmark $700 million capital raise, welcoming Vision Invest, a leading Saudi Arabian infrastructure investor and developer, into its shareholder base.
The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of ARISE IIP, Gagan Gupta, yesterday told journalists in Lagos that the transaction marks one of the largest private infrastructure capital raises in Africa to date, with both primary and secondary components. Gupta, while highlighting the strategic significance of the new investment, said: “The capital will support ARISE IIP’s continued expansion across the continent of Africa and the development of green, inclusive, and sustainable industrial ecosystems. The institutional shareholder base of ARISE IIP comprises the founding shareholders Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) and Equitane, along with the Fund for Export Development in Africa (FEDA), the development impact platform of Afreximbank, and, with this transaction, Vision Invest the newest shareholder.
HOMEF: Over 1,323 Buildings Submerged By Water in N'Delta
An expert in forensic architecture, Tobechukwu Onwukeme, has said a forensic investigation conducted revealed that about 1,323 residential houses, schools and hospitals in the riverine areas of the Niger Delta region have been submerged by water due to climate change.
Onwukeme revealed this in his keynote address at a "Right Livelihood College Lecture 2025", organised by the Right Livelihood College and Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) at the University of Port Harcourt, in Rivers State.
the federal government operates unlike those from the ACN and CPC who had no idea what was taking place in government then.
"We stood firm for the course and faced the federal government then facing all sorts of problems. There were even Assembly members that were arrested from here (Kano) and locked up in Abuja," Kwankwaso lamented "I personally faced all sorts of attacks using the EFCC, ICPC, Police, DSS and others, all because of APC. We are the founders of APC, we led
everything, we started from Eagle Square and went round seven states then. But when the APC came to power, they gave us nothing—not even a thank you—because our faction of the PDP didn't start with them,” the NNPP national leader said.
Kwankwaso lamented that all the struggles he went through have passed "and today some people are benefiting from all the struggle we did when men were men.
"We will accept to join the APC if invited, but we must know
what the NNPP will benefit from when we join. What will be the position of our Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf?
"We also have Senators and Reps as well as others holding positions in the state government, when we join the APC what will be their fate? Provide us with the answers.
"If you say I should go back to the APC, I'm willing to re-join, and I didn't say I won't join even now, but on what terms?"
Kwankwaso asked.
"When I was with the APC
and PDP, they didn't respect my integrity; we only worked for ungrateful people who never appreciated what we did. We worked for them, they won elections, and dumped us aside – we're all witnesses to this.
“Now that we're settled and not in a hurry to leave the NNPP, however, if there are those who want to work with us in total honesty and transparency, such that we won't be treated the way we were in the past, we're ready for it." he stated.
Suicide Prevention Bill Published in Igbo, Yoruba, Hausa, Pidgin
Charles Ajunwa
In line with this year’s suicide prevention month theme of ‘Changing The Narrative’, Nigerian Mental Health (NMH) in collaboration with the Nigeria Suicide Prevention Working Group, has translated the National Suicide Prevention Bill, which was introduced in the National Assembly earlier this year, into Igbo, Yoruba, Hausa, and Pidgin.
A statement by the Founder of NMH, Chime Asonye, said this has helped to broaden accessibility and support to millions.
“This is more than a translation; it is a tool for lifesaving conversations,” Asonye said, adding, “With the help of the Suicide Research and
Prevention Initiative (SURPIN), the Asido Foundation, DepGenAfrica Nigeria, and other committed partners, we have made this bill accessible to millions. We encourage Nigerians to read, share, and discuss it with their families and friends.”
Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, who introduced the legislation said, “Translating the bill removes a major barrier to public engagement,” stressing that “When people can read the law in the language they speak, communities are better placed to hold leaders accountable and support life-saving change.”
According to the statement, “the initiative underscores that mental health crises are a shared responsibility for all Nigerians, making its provisions
more understandable to diverse communities and sparking a national conversation.”
It also noted that “Nigeria records an estimated 17.3 suicides per 100,000 annually and faces a severe shortage of trained mental health professionals, with about one psychiatrist for every 800,000 people, figures widely cited by the World Health Organisation and the Association of Psychiatrists in Nigeria. Facts that underline the urgency of legal and service reforms.
“The Bill establishes a national framework that would decriminalise attempted suicide, currently subject to a one-year prison term in Nigeria, treating it as a public health issue and guaranteeing rights and aftercare for those in need. The
framework also includes creating a National Suicide Prevention Unit, establishing 24-hour crisis helplines, and integrating prevention into all levels of healthcare.
“Additionally, it mandates training and capacity-building for professionals and prioritizes data collection and research to guide policy.”
The statement further said “World Health Organisation identifies decriminalisation and expanded access to care as key elements of suicide prevention, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 3) prioritise good health and well-being. The translations align the bill with these global best practices and aim to make the legislation accessible to ordinary citizens.
Nigeria’s Damilola Ogunbiyi Makes Forbes 2025 Sustainability Leaders List
Bennett Oghifo
Showing with the aid of visuals how his forensic architectural investigation exposed the devastating effects of what he described as domestic colonisation perpetrated by the European colonialists and their oil companies, Onwukeme also disclosed that thousands of oil spills had happened in the region since oil exploration began.
Citing communities such as Ogale in Eleme Local Government Area of the State, Onwukeme said the activities of oil companies like Shell, Chevron and others have left the flora and fauna of many areas in the Niger Delta devastated through oil spills. He said such activities were also contributing to global warming through constant gas flaring, a menace that is causing climate change and ocean surge in the region, resulting in the continuous destruction of the people's livelihood and property.
Forbes Magazine has named the Chief Executive Officer of Sustainable Energy for All and the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary General for Sustainable Energy for All, Damilola Ogunbiyi, in its 2025 Forbes Sustainability Leaders list that recognises 50 global leaders who are working
to combat the climate crisis.
The sustainable energy and development trailblazer received the prestigious award yesterday.
Now in its second year, the Forbes Sustainability Leaders list honours 50 people setting the pace for a just, sustainable economy and defining what climate leadership looks like today.
Damilola was recognised
for her efforts to advance an equitable energy transition that benefits underprivileged communities in the Global South. Her leadership in championing the UN-led Energy Compacts as well as the World Bank and African Development Bank’s Mission 300, the ambitious publicprivate-philanthropic partnership to provide electricity to 300
million people in Africa by 2030, was also recognised. Reacting to this latest recognition, Damilola said, “This recognition is a reflection not only of my work, but also of the incredible partners, colleagues, and communities who share the vision of building a more sustainable future, and accelerating a just and equitable energy transition.”
Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang (left) with President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, Mr. Eze Anaba, during the Guild's meeting, in Jos…recently
COURTESY VISIT...
Managing Director/CEO of South South Development Commission (SSDC), Ms. Usoro Akpabio (left), receiving a souvenir from the Director General, Bureau of Public Enterprise, Mr. Adebowale Adedokun, when she paid a courtesy visit to the BPE in Abuja...yesterday
Catholic Bishops Warn Against Suppression of Opposition, Hail FG on Food Security
Catholic bishops in Nigeria have said that Nigeria is witnessing suppression of opposition and a possible slide into one party state. They also expressed worry that corruption and bad governance have continued to spread like cancer unhindered in the country. However, the clergymen
said that Nigeria is gradually witnessing some positive changes at various levels, especially in the area of food security.
In a communique issued at the end of the Second Plenary Meeting of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) held at the Diocesan Retreat and Youth Development Centre, Ikot Ekpene Diocese, Akwa Ibom
State, and signed by its President Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji and Secretary, Bishop Donatus Ogun, the bishops warned that the nation may collapse if the current situation lingers.
Ahead of 2027, the clergymen said there is a deliberate plan to suppress opposition adding that the slide to a one-party state is a bad omen for our nation.
The bishops said, "The fundamental cause of our problems as a nation is corruption and bad governance. Corruption, understood as moral rottenness, has spread unhindered like a deadly cancer to all areas of our national life, aggressively destroying the fabric of the nation.
"In the face of many live threats, politicians are more preoccupied
Insecurity: Kwara Relocates NYSC Orientation Camp to Ilorin Polytechnic
Councils chairmen shutdown cattle markets
Hammed Shittu in Ilorin
The Kwara State Government has approved the relocation of the National Youth Service Corps 2025 Batch ‘B’ Stream II Orientation Camp from the permanent site in Yikpata in Edu Local Government Area of the state to the Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin.
In another development, piqued by the worsening insecurity in the Kwara South senatorial district of Kwara state, all the seven local government councils chairmen that make up the senatorial district have ordered the immediate closure of all cattle markets in the senatorial district until further notice.
Speaking with journalists in Ilorin on the prevailing insecurity in the Kwara North senatorial district of the state, the state Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Mr. Onifade Olaoluwa Joshua, explained that the decision was taken following security concerns raised by what he described as “perpetrators
and enemies of progress.”
Joshua assured prospective corps members and their parents of adequate security and smooth conduct of the three-week exercise.
According to him, armed soldiers and other security personnel will be deployed to safeguard the lives and welfare of participants.
Court Stops EDSIEC, Edo Govt from Conducting Planned LG By-elections in 59 Wards
Emenyonu in Benin City
An Edo State High Court sitting in Benin City has restrained the Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC) and the state government from going ahead with planned local government by-elections across 59 wards in the state.
Justice Mary E. Itsueli, sitting as a vacation judge, granted the
order on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, following an ex parte motion brought by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The PDP, through its counsels, Oluwole Osaze Uzzi, Michael Ekwemuka and P. W. Akwuen, in the suit, B/247M/2025, had prayed the court for leave to apply for judicial review of EDSIEC’s decision to conduct by-elections to fill councillorship
positions in the affected wards.
The party argued that the councillors’ tenures remain valid until September 2026, making any attempt to declare their seats vacant unlawful.
In her ruling, Justice Itsueli, held that the applicants had shown sufficient grounds for the court to intervene.
In the enrolment order made available to journalists in Benin
City, the PDP sought “An Order granting leave to the applicant to apply for judicial review of the decision of the 1st respondent to conduct election across 59 wards purportedly to fill vacancies to their legislative seats/offices of councillors sponsored by the applicant, when their respective tenures subsist until September, 2026.”
Órüpézá Festival Begins September 28, to Revive Traditions, Empower Lagos Communities
Sunday Ehigiator
with securing and retaining power and less concerned with good governance for the common good of the electorate".
The bishops accused elected politicians of abandoning their duties in pursuit of their personal political agenda and perfecting strategies to grasp power in 2027.
"In fact, there seems to be suppression of opposition as Nigeria appears to be tilting to a one-party state, the development of which is not a good omen for democracy.
"We observe that many politicians are merely strategising, aligning and realigning, defecting from one party to another; and posturing for future political offices with little or no intention to contribute to the common good and make the lives of the citizens better," the bishops said.
The communique also highlighted the bishops' position on several issues including, policy reforms, increase in couples seeking to have children through
assisted reproductive technology such as In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF), and as well persisting insecurity in the land
They said that Nigeria, is gradually witnessing some positive changes at various levels.
"As we noted in our last communique in March this year, this progress is in the areas of road rehabilitation and construction in some parts of the nation, the new minimum wage, and increased allocation of funds to the states, among others.
"We appreciate the recent federal government’s tax reform efforts aimed especially at curbing multiple taxations and giving relief to low-income earners. We commend the government for its efforts towards ensuring food security.
"We also recognise the efforts of some security agents, who often work and sometimes sacrifice their lives in fighting to protect the lives and property of fellow citizens.”
Aladetan Emerges TUC Lagos Council Chairman
Sunday Ehigiator
Abiodun Aladetan has been elected Chairman of the Lagos State Council of the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), with a pledge to prioritise the welfare and rights of workers, especially in the private and informal sectors.
Aladetan, an affiliate member of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN), was elected on Thursday at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Yaba, alongside seven other executive members.
Corporations and Government Owned Companies (SSASCGOC) as Financial Secretary; Kabiawu Gbolahan of the Nigeria Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP) as Public Relations Officer; and Martins Adesanoye of the Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied Companies (SSAEAC) as Auditor. In his acceptance speech, Aladetan vowed to champion the protection of workers’ rights amid workplace transformations such as automation and artificial intelligence.
The heartbeat of Lagos is set to come alive again as the Órüpézá Festival returns from September 28 to October 2, 2025, with organisers promising five days of music, film, fashion, dance, gaming, visual arts, and culinary showcases at Freedom Park, Lagos The annual cultural showcase, which last year coincided with Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary, has grown into one of the country’s most anticipated festivals.
drew thousands of participants to Freedom Park; once a colonial prison but now a thriving cultural hub; where history, art, and community converged.
In a statement by the organisers, The 2024 edition, themed ‘Freedom Festival Week’,
“That edition was particularly notable for the introduction of the Órüpézá Cultural Honours, which celebrated cultural icons Jahman Anikulapo, Bruce Onobrakpeya, and Taiwo Ajayi-Lycett for their enduring contributions to Nigeria’s creative landscape.”
According to festival Director, Edi Lawani, those recognitions signalled the festival’s commitment to bridging generations and affirming culture as the bedrock of community.
Others elected include Chinatu Iregbeyen of the Association of Senior Staff of Banks, Insurance and Financial Institutions (ASSBIFI) as Vice Chairman; Hannah Omeje of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) as Secretary; Egbukichi Veronica of the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN); Samsondeen Ajala of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) as Treasurer; Salau Oladele of the Senior Staff Association of Statutory
“We have a lot of challenges presently in the world of work. Workers, especially in the private sector, are often treated unfairly. For this administration, we are going to focus on those areas to safeguard the rights of Nigerian workers, particularly those in the informal sector,” he said.
The new chairman also unveiled plans to revive the TUC’s mass housing scheme for workers, secure a permanent secretariat for the Lagos Council, and initiate agricultural empowerment projects for members to ensure self-sufficiency after retirement.
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
Adibe
Remembering Victims of Witch hunts in Niger State At
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.
tried, and tortured as a witch? Let us pause for a moment to honour, respect, and remember these innocent persons, these victims, known, unknown, or forgotten. Their pain is our pain. Their suffering is our suffering because they became victims due to our mistaken ideas of nature and how nature works.
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 Advocacy for Alleged Witches has been deeply concerned about the witchhunting situation in Niger state. AfAW has intervened in some cases of witchcraft accusations, especially the witch-hunting campaign by one Hassan Patigi. We are happy that the government prevailed on him and his witch hunting activities. However, witch hunting rages across the state.
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.
This meeting is convened to explore how we can do more and do better in ending witch hunts in Niger state and in Nigeria as a whole. The International Day against Witch hunts is marked on August 10 every year to highlight abuses and injustices that accused persons suffered in the past and still suffer today in many parts of the globe. Some of the accused persons are from Niger state and many of the abuses take place in Niger state, in Lapai, Mokwa, Bida, etc.
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.
Let us pause and recall the trauma these victims endured, sometimes in the hands of their relatives, and community members, people they trusted and entrusted with their life, safety, and well-being. Let us remember the sense of betrayal that those men and women, young and old, able and disabled, felt for being falsely accused.
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).
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.
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.
For this year, we have chosen to remember victims and survivors of witch hunts and ritual attacks. We decided to honour all who have been violated in the name of witchcraft or ritual belief because they deserve to be honoured. They are victims of miscarriage of justice and superstition-based infringements. So I ask you: do you know someone who has been accused or abused for witchcraft? Can you recall, while growing up, anybody who has been mischaracterised, identified,
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
In Praise of Ahmed Audi
Dby 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.
Stop Ritual Attacks and Killings
Tr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi is the Commandant General of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. He is an erudite scholar and seasoned administrator. He was appointed by President Buhari in 2021. Immediately after assuming office, he repositioned and restructured the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. He tackled the issue of pipeline vandalism by bringing in advance surveillance and monitoring system, and the use of horizontal directional drilling (HDD). He also made pipelines less accessible amid robust community engagement to foster cooperation to address the root cause of vandalism.
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.
Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged Witches
Today, the trains are up and running daily from Abuja to Kaduna. And from Lagos to Ibadan a brand new rail track was started and completed; citizens are already commuting daily to and fro these two major cities in the country seamlessly as they reap from the dividends of democracy. And with the way this government is going, before 2023 when the President would leave, the entire country would be linked by rail with all of its economic advantages.
Ainofenokhai Ojeifo, Abuja
THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER
EDITOR OBINNA CHIMA
DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU
MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO
THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU
EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE
CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN
MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO
THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU
CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN
MANAGING EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI
THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE
THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU
THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI
Under the leadership of the Commandant General, the NSCDC is pursuing strategies aligned with its mission to be a technologically driven, and highly trained paramilitary agency committed to safeguarding Nigeria’s civil population and critical infrastructure.
Anjorin Adeolu, Lafia, Nasarawa State
Stand Strong
The departures of Colbert and Kimmel, and who knows the next one, are apparently for a number of reasons, officially costs and rating, but there is also a common occurrence, they criticised President Trump, a lot.
he Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AfAW) urges the Nigerian public to stop ritual attacks and killings because the notion of ritual money and wealth is completely baseless. AfAW is making this call following the reported arrest of suspected ritualists in Oyo State in southern Nigeria. The local media reported that members of the Western Nigeria Security Network, Amotekun, arrested suspected ritualists with the body parts of a 73-year-old man. 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.
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI
DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com What a waste!
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
He has commented “... all they do is hit Trump,” and “I would think maybe their license should be taken away,” and maybe I could use the same approach with those that have displeased me, the bully in grade two, the gym teacher who doubted my ability, although accurately, and the English teacher who said I was going to fail badly, although I am not sure how you could fail goodly. 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)
GROUND BREAKING OF ROTARY PEACE CENTRE...
Troops Intercept Major Logistics Supplies to Terrorists in North-east, Niger Republic
Amotekun arrests six suspected kidnappers, 45 others in Ondo Reuters: Insurgents raid military barracks in Banki
The Nigerian Army has announced that troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF) North East, Operation Hadin Kai, intercepted major logistics supplies intended for terrorists in the North-east and Niger Republic, concealed in a trailer in Yobe State.
This was as the Ondo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun Corps, arrested six suspected kidnappers and 45 others for crimes ranging from robbery, rape, and anti-open grazing violation in the state.
However, Reuters yesterday reported that suspected insurgents attacked a border town in Borno State and seized weapons from a military barracks as the soldiers there fled, residents and security sources said yesterday. The incident occurred in the town of Banki in Bama district.
A statement by the Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force, North East Operation Hadin Kai, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, disclosed that acting on credible intelligence, troops of Operation Desert Sanity IV, at about 0740 hours on 16
September 2025, conducted snap checks along the Nguru–Gashua Road and intercepted a red 14tyre trailer laden with suspicious consignments.
The vehicle, Sani said, was subsequently moved to a secure location and carefully offloaded.
"Also on the same day, 16 September 2025, at about 2100 hours, inspection revealed 700 bags of NPK 20:10:10 fertiliser—commonly used in the production of IEDs—27 cartons of assorted drugs, and nine cartons of normal saline solution, all cleverly concealed beneath bundles of fabric materials.
"The consignment was reportedly intended for onward movement to the Niger Republic, suggesting the existence of cross-border terrorist supply networks," he said.
Sani stated that this discovery followed an earlier interception at about 1030 hours the same day, when troops operating along the same axis stopped two Sharon vehicles and another trailer carrying large quantities of fabric materials and solar panels.
Intelligence, he said, indicated that terrorists were attempting to acquire the fabric for the
production of uniforms for their fighters.
He stated, "All drivers, motor boys, and the recovered items are currently in custody, pending further investigation and the arrest of identified consignees and consignors. The Theatre Command assures the public that troops remain vigilant and committed to cutting off
all supply chains sustaining terrorists in the region."
He urged the public to continue providing timely information to security forces to support ongoing operations, stressing that the military high command has commended the troops for their impressive operational performance.
Meanwhile, the State
Commander of the corps, Adetunji Adeleye, who paraded the suspects yesterday hinted that they were nabbed in various parts of the coastal state within 14 days, noting the arrests were made possible through the efforts of the Amotekun Rangers and other security agencies.
Adeleye said the breakdown of the suspects includes six major
kidnap suspects, four robbery suspects, one rape suspect, four suspects arrested for anti-open grazing violation, two human trafficking suspects, three arrested for breaking and stealing, and nine who were pretending to be hawkers but were actually collaborators and information gathering agents of kidnappers and robbers.
Meta Launches Smart Glasses with Built-in Display
Meta has launched its first consumer-ready smart glasses with a built-in display, seeking to extend the momentum of its Ray-Ban line, one of the early consumer hits of the artificial intelligence era.
Meta’s CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, who launched the smart glasses and a new wristband controller, described them as the perfect way for humans to reach for the AI promise of "superintelligence."
"Glasses are the ideal form factor for personal superintelligence, because they let you stay present in the moment while getting access to all of these AI capabilities that make you smarter, help you
communicate better, improve your memory, improve your senses, and more," Zuckerberg said, during the launch at Menlo Park in California.
The new display glasses have a small digital display in the right lens for basic tasks such as notifications. They will start at $799 and be available on September 30 in stores. Included
in the price is a wristband that translates hand gestures into commands such as responding to texts and calls.
Meta’s new pair of Oakleybranded glasses, called Vanguard, is aimed at athletes and priced at $499. The device integrates with fitness platforms such as Garmin and Strava to deliver real-time training stats and post-workout
summaries and offers nine hours of battery life. It will be available starting on October 21. It also updated its previous Ray-Ban line, which does not have a built-in display but now offers almost twice the battery life of the earlier generation and a better camera at $379, higher than the previous generation's $299 price.
The African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing cancer care in Nigeria and across Africa during the 8th Annual Scientific Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Association of Radiation and
PodFest Naija, a Festival of Stories, is set to bring together Nigeria’s most influential creators, policymakers, and brands this October in Lagos, marking the country’s first dedicated podcast and storytelling festival.
The one-day event, scheduled for October 10, 2025, at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, will explore the power of stories in shaping culture, inspiring innovation, and
Clinical Oncologists of Nigeria (ARCON) held in Port Harcourt recently.
Delivering an address to a distinguished audience of clinical and radiation oncologists, Dr. Aisha Umar, Chief Medical Officer at AMCE, highlighted the hospital’s readiness to play a transformative role in strengthening Nigeria’s oncology ecosystem. This year’s ARCON theme, ‘Innovation Through Collaboration: Cultivating a Resilient Nigerian Oncology Ecosystem’, underscored the importance of joint efforts in addressing the rising cancer burden.
driving collaboration.
Envisioned as an annual creative convergence, PodFest Naija is designed as a vibrant space for celebration, learning, and exchange within Nigeria’s growing podcasting ecosystem. The festival will spotlight creativity, foster collaboration, showcase innovation, and provide opportunities for discovery.
With sponsorship from CocaCola, The Place, Crown Flour Mills,
Sterling Bank, UAC Foods, Bet9ja, Sunflower Hospitality, and Post Assurance, SunTrust Bank, Beloxxi, alongside media partners including News Central, Megalectrics, The Cable, Brand Communicator, Nairametrics, OloriSupergal, Dashboard Innovations, Cueball Communications, Aster Media and DLC Media, PodFest
Fred Ojeh
L-R: Immediate past District Governor, Dr. Wole Kukoyi; Vice Chancellor Olabisi Onabanjo University, Prof. Ayodeji Agboola; District Governor, Rotary International District 9111, Henry Akinyele, and District GovernorNominee, Samuel Ayetutu, at the groundbreaking of Rotary Peace Centre at OOU, Ago- Iwoye campus... recently
Linus Aleke in Abuja and Fidelis David in Akure
Lawson Omokhodion:
Patience is the Bedrock of True Leadership
Few Nigerians can boast of a career as diverse and impactful as that of Chief Lawson Omokhodion, the Akoamen of Ekpoma and a Knight of St. Mulumba, whose professional journey has straddled journalism, banking, oil and gas, consulting, academia, and philanthropy. Starting out in the newsroom as Business Editor at Newswatch and later Executive Editor, Head of Business/Economy at THISWEEK magazine (the forerunner of THISDAY), he sharpened the analytical and communication skills that would later serve him in corporate boardrooms. By the late 1980s, he had transitioned into finance, first as Research and Corporate Finance Manager at AVC Fund Ltd and then as Assistant General Manager, Lagos & Northern Operations at Pan African Bank Ltd. His banking career accelerated further when he became Executive Director at Allstates Trust Bank Plc, and later Managing Director/CEO of Liberty Bank Plc, where he built a reputation for discipline, vision, and resilience. Beyond banking, he held senior corporate roles, including Executive Director (Group Sales) at Conoil Plc. He later served as Chairman/CEO of Ritsoil Petroleum and Gas Limited until his retirement in 2022. Omokhodion also contributed to policy and education, serving as Adviser at the African Development Bank and as Pro-Chancellor/Chairman of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma. Today, he chairs the Board of Trustees of the Lawson & Funmilayo Omokhodion Foundation, dedicated to poverty alleviation. In this conversation, with Sunday Ehigiator, he reflects on balancing professional demands with family life, the leadership lessons that shaped him, and his candid views on Nigeria’s banking reforms, economy, among others
Agetting ready to face the future. Those are typical free days and free time. But once you get married and start having children, things change. Responsibilities confront you. Many of us had to take care not only of our nuclear families but also of our extended families. We all grew up as responsible young men and women. With family in front of you, with children in front of you, you have no
but to be disciplined,
pray for them and to think about them constantly. That sense of responsibility changes your priorities and shapes how you lead, because you are no longer
Lawson Omokhodion: CEOs Need Recreation to Stay Healthy
living only for yourself.
What are the biggest leadership lessons you learnt as Managing Director of Liberty Bank?
I will say patience. If you are not patient, you can’t overcome. If you are patient, you listen. If you are patient, you can persevere. If you are patient, you have empathy; you put yourself in the place of another. those are the kinds of challenges that face you in life, and patience helps you handle them. Once you are patient, you can pray. God has given you the education; God has given you the opportunity, so you need to put them to use. I found patience to be extremely useful in overcoming professional challenges, family challenges, and relationship challenges, wherever they may be, even with your friends. If you are patient, you are able to forgive. If you are patient, you are able to understand. If you are patient, you seldom get angry, because you allow the other party to resolve in their own mind the contradictions they have. you are patient with that process. patience is the bedrock of leadership for me.
Outside the boardroom, what forms of recreation and hobbies do you enjoy, and how important is downtime for leaders?
even when I was much younger and very busy, I still made time for tennis. you must be able to let go of your mind. you must find avenues for recreation. you must find time to laugh and to talk about things that are not directly related to work. I always met colleagues playing tennis or table tennis; many had more time, and some played golf. Golf is very time-consuming, but it’s important. recreation makes you, first, a stronger person; second, it allows you to unwind. It gives you a picture of the other side of life. those things are very important. If you lock yourself up 24 hours a day, bring work home and return to the office the next day without pause, you are courting disaster. It’s important to be healthy. When you exercise and have access to recreational facilities, you avoid certain illnesses; your body and mind recover because you are not sedentary and not bound to your desk. that contributes to the good health of an executive and makes him or her more acceptable to the outside world. you are not closed off; you don’t carry a chip on your shoulder; you relate with people. and that is what recreation is for.
In your view, how should today’s banks balance profit-making with national development goals? the banks today have become megastars. there is intense competition in the industry. every bank wants to be ahead, to occupy a leadership position, and to satisfy its shareholders. But let me be very clear: it is not the duty of a bank to balance profit-making with national aspirations. that responsibility lies with the regulators. It is the duty of regulators to ensure that the activities of any bank are aligned with national development goals. If a regulator is unable to achieve that alignment, then a bank will simply operate to satisfy its shareholders, its staff, and its principal owners. Maybe, if the customers are lucky, they will also be considered. But the main responsibility for ensuring that banking serves national goals rests squarely with regulators, not the banks themselves. that has always been my belief.
What is your take on the ongoing banking recapitalisation exercise?
I have always found the attempt to decree recapitalisation somewhat arbitrary. the 2004–2005 exercise in the banking industry did not go down very well, in my opinion, because it failed to segment the industry. Not every bank then needed N25 billion to do what it was doing at the time. If you compared that requirement to the capital of banks in europe and america, then it was minuscule. Now we have categories: N500 billion for international banks, N200 billion for national banks, and N50 billion for regional banks. some banks already have capital of over N1 trillion. the so-called “big boys” have distinguished themselves. But I honestly do not know what all that capital is needed for in this economic environment. the Nigerian economy today does not require that level of capital. t he sectors we rely on, oil and gas, trade, and manufacturing, are not yet large enough to absorb or justify such capital thresholds. I fear that this kind of arbitrary recapitalisation can create distortions rather than strengthen the system.
The government has set a target of achieving a $1 trillion economy by 2030. How realistic is this ambition?
achieving a $1 trillion economy by 2030 is a solid ambition. It is good to have targets that stretch us. It gives us something to look forward to. But such an ambition requires more than slogans; it requires options, enthusiasm, energy, and strategy. and right now, our economy is fledgling. the size of the economy today is much smaller than what such an ambition demands. We need stronger sectors, deeper reforms, and a collective national effort to expand production, attract investment, and improve infrastructure. Maybe as we move forward, the energies and options will become available. But at this moment, the economy is weak, and getting to $1 trillion will require a monumental push.
As a former Pro-Chancellor of Ambrose Alli University, what reforms would you like to see in Nigerian universities today to improve the standard of education?
When I served as pro-Chancellor, one of the first things we did was to understand the true state of the university. We carried out what I call a due diligence exercise. We brought in consultants to assess the system because the university had been without a governing council for about two years. In that vacuum, the Vice-Chancellor was both VC and Chairman of Council, which is not how a university should function. From that exercise, it became clear to me that for a Nigerian university to move forward, it must stand firmly on three basic legs: First is law and order: Without law and order, you breed despots; despots as ViceChancellors, despots as Heads of departments, and despots among staff. a university without order becomes a jungle. Next is physical facilities: a university must invest in its infrastructure. Government, businesses, and philanthropists should be encouraged to provide and sustain these facilities. Without an environment conducive to learning, there can be no real progress. Lastly, I’ll say academic excellence. above all, a university must pursue academic excellence. teachers must teach, and students must learn. It may sound obvious, but in Nigeria, there are universities where lecturers don’t even bother to teach. In my time as pro-Chancellor, I insisted that rules and discipline mattered. Contracts had to be open, transparent, and above board. Council decisions were not rubber stamps; I read every document carefully. unfortunately, many Nigerian universities are run by councils filled with politicians who see the place as a money-making venture. that is wrong. When pro-Chancellors and Vice-Chancellors treat universities as cash cows, they mortgage the institution. universities must be governed
of enterprises, both federal and state-owned, were sold off. every time you sell a public enterprise, you are selling jobs. the argument then was that public enterprises were inefficient and wasteful. yes, some managers were corrupt. But corruption exists in the private sector too. Companies collapse in the private sector, just as they do in the public sector. In mature economies, when a company is struggling, it is recapitalised, restructured, and reformed; not casually dismantled.
Look at history. For over 500 years, from the Industrial revolution until the 1980s, Britain relied on public enterprises to grow its economy. France did the same. today, China, Malaysia, and russia still use state enterprises as engines of growth. Why should Nigeria be different? For me, the option is clear: we must rethink our hostility to public enterprises. We need to return to a model that blends public-private partnerships (ppps) and joint ventures. take the Nigeria LNG company as an example. It is structured as a partnership; NNpC owns 49 per cent, while private sector partners like shell, totalenergies, and eni hold the rest. that structure works because it balances public interest with private efficiency. We can replicate that model across industries. suppose the government wants to build a pharmaceutical plant, or a textile mill, or a fruit-processing company. It can invite investors, local, diaspora, or international, to hold majority stakes, while the government keeps a minority share. the presence of the government provides stability and confidence, while the private sector drives efficiency. after 10 or 15 years, the government can even sell its stake and move on to other projects.
with integrity, following statutes and laws, not personal whims.
How can we bridge the gap between the gown and the town so that we can have more employable graduates?
Certainly, but we must first admit that not every institution calling itself a university in Nigeria is truly functioning as one. We now have a mix of federal, state, and private universities. While some are solid, others exist only in name. a university is not just buildings; it must have lecturers who actually teach, students who are taught, and management that enforces standards. there are old universities with history and depth: Ibadan, Lagos, Nsukka, Benin, Jos, Maiduguri, Calabar. these remain relatively strong. But new universities are being approved every year, even while others are struggling with inadequate student numbers and poor facilities. that is not sustainable. When I chaired the Council at ambrose alli university, I saw firsthand that when law and order are enforced, when asuu operates within a framework of discipline, and when lecturers are held accountable, the system works. students understood the need to learn; lecturers knew they were being monitored to ensure delivery; and non-academic staff knew their welfare was considered. If more universities adopt that model, one of accountability, discipline, and focus on academic quality, we will narrow the gap between academia and the labour market. Graduates will become more employable because they will have been properly taught and rigorously trained.
Given your experience in business, banking, and education, what practical strategies do you believe Nigeria should adopt to create sustainable jobs for its youth population? people often say there are two sectors in Nigeria, the private sector and the public sector. But our Constitution, in Chapter 2, sections 14 and 16, makes it clear that both the public and private sectors should jointly drive production and services in this country. the tragedy is that Nigeria has effectively surrendered its economy to the private sector. the public sector has been killed. this began in 1986 when we embraced structural reforms under the IMF. One of the conditions was that public enterprises had to be privatised. What did privatisation do? It transferred national assets into the hands of a few: generals, top civil servants, and favoured businessmen. these people stripped assets, sold machinery as scrap, pocketed the money, and walked away. Between 1986 and 2020, close to N1 trillion was realised by the Bureau of public enterprises (Bpe). Where is that money today? spent recklessly, embezzled, and what about the jobs? they all disappeared. Hundreds
at the state level, opportunities abound: metallurgical industries, plastics, textiles, agriculture, and food processing. state governments can partner with diaspora Nigerians who have capital and expertise, or with established Nigerian businesses, to set up industries that create jobs.
What do we have today instead? Governors collect security votes, enrich themselves, and declare that “government has no business in business.” that is why corruption is so rampant. they do not know what to do with resources. they have been told to stay away from enterprise, so they simply spend on consumption.
We need the National economic Council to sit down, adopt this ppp model, and make it a national policy. Because the crisis is real. Over 50,000 graduates enter the labour market every year. yet unemployment statistics are manipulated to show “4 per cent unemployment”, which is laughable. In reality, youth unemployment and underemployment are massive, probably closer to 50 per cent.
Without jobs, there can be no stability. Without productive engagement, our young people will continue to face poverty, exclusion, and frustration. the only way to reverse this is to bring the public sector back into productive enterprise, not as a dominant player, but as a strategic partner with private investors. that is how you create sustainable jobs in Nigeria.
What is your assessment of President Bola Tinubu’s economic reform agenda?
For me, the contrast with the Muhammadu Buhari years is very clear. during Buhari’s eight years, we really didn’t have a president in the true sense. We had a man who sat like an emperor, detached, not fully understanding his left from his right, while the people who worked for him ran things as they liked. Now, we have a president who is engaged, who thinks. president tinubu has undertaken three bold reform measures: the removal of subsidies, the devaluation of the currency, and tax reforms. On paper, these are fantastic moves. they show seriousness. But there was one mistake: the deep devaluation of the naira. that single step has had the most devastating impact on the economy. It is what has driven up costs everywhere. think of it: a car that sold for N50 million five years ago now costs N250 million. Why? Because of that devaluation. the government should have allowed a guided market system, not a free fall. On May 29, 2023, when tinubu assumed office, the official exchange rate was N460 to the dollar, the black market was about N750. all we needed was a gradual adjustment; N460 to N500, N500 to N525, and so on. the black market would have corrected itself gradually, too. But what we had instead was a plunge, an abrupt devaluation. today, the rate went as high as N1,700 to the dollar before moderating to around N1,500.
Omokhodion
Which: Criteria or Criterion?
“W
HAT is the criteria for…?” Get it right: criterion (singular) and criteria (plural). So, what are the criteria for…?
“Rumble in the ‘Desert’: ‘Joshua needs confident (confidence) to over come (overcome) Ruiz”
“We invite you to the commissioning ceremony (We invite you to the inauguration) on Wednesday….”
“Reps (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 (grassroots) talents and future football stars for the State (sic) and the Nation.”
“The Football Academy will be commissioned (inaugurated/auspicated) by his Excellency….”
“Adron Homes unveil (unveils) Rufai, Ali, Onyali as its ambassadors”
“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 week.
“And 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.”
Rivers of Ego, Power and Politricks
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared the end of emergency rule in Rivers State, announcing that Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu, Speaker Martins Amaewhule and the entire Assembly would resume office on Thursday, September 18. According to the President, the measure has “achieved its purpose” and a new spirit of understanding among stakeholders justifies returning the state to civilian governance. He spoke as though a divine wind of reconciliation had blown across the creeks, soothing bruised egos and reconciling gladiators. But Nigerians know better.
How did we get here in the first place?
The descent into federal trusteeship was not born of insurgency, nor of ethnic cleansing, nor of secessionist campaigns. It was simply politics Nigerian-style: a quarrel between a governor and his godfather. Fubara, the relatively mild-mannered protégé, dared to step out of the shadow of Nyesom Wike, the volcanic former governor turned Abuja landlord as FCT Minister. What began as hushed disagreements over appointments and loyalty mutated into public spectacles: the Rivers House of Assembly split into rival factions, the Assembly chamber was set ablaze, and police patrols hovered around Government House like vultures circling a wounded animal. Abuja watched with folded arms - until it no longer could.
By March, with no functioning legislature, appropriations frozen, and rival claimants declaring themselves speaker, Tinubu reached for the big stick: emergency rule under Section 305 of the Constitution. He cited not only political paralysis but also the threat of economic sabotage - vandalised pipelines, restive communities, and the spectre of Rivers, Nigeria’s oil hub, spiralling into chaos. The state was handed to a Sole Administrator, retired naval chief Ibok-Ete Ibas, to keep the lights on.
Now, six months later, Tinubu has declared the experiment successful. Salaries were paid, schools remained open, security incidents were limited, and the once deafening quarrels faded into background hum. He spoke of intelligence reports indicating a “groundswell of understanding” among Rivers stakeholders. Yet, beneath the presidential optimism, scepticism lingers. Have the issues truly disappeared, or are they merely buried alive?
The truth is simple: the grievances remain. Fubara and Wike have not reconciled; they have only been muzzled. The Assembly, dominated by Wike’s loyalists, is unlikely to roll over quietly for a governor they tried to sideline. Abuja’s intervention bought peace, not resolution. Like embers hidden under ash, the quarrel waits for the next gust of political wind.
As Fubara resumes office, several scenarios beckon. The most optimistic is a fragile truce: both camps lick their wounds, trim their ambitions, and focus on governance - at least long enough to pacify Tinubu. But the more likely outcome is renewed contestation, now subtler, fought with court orders, selective police deployments, budget delays, and the dark arts of Nigerian politricks. With Wike’s network entrenched in the Assembly and the political party (PDP, or is it APC?) - and with Fubara returning emboldened by a presidential reprieve, the egos involved may not yield easily. Rivers could once again become Nollywood’s favourite theatre - a saga in endless sequels.
How did the interregnum fare? On paper, reasonably. Salaries flowed, civil servants worked, and the administrator maintained order. But governance is not just the absence of chaos. No bold initiatives were launched, capital projects were stalled, and Rivers was essentially mothballed for half a year. The administrator was a caretaker, not a leader. Development was sacrificed on the altar of stability - a familiar Nigerian
“In answering this question we classify the outcomes into long term and short term implications.” The greatest problem of journalists: 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.
trade-off.
Yet, the interregnum offered lessons. For Fubara, that political survival depends on firmness, not eternal gratitude to godfathers. For Wike, that power is not a birthright; political dominance can melt away once Abuja loses patience. For Abuja itself, that emergency rule is a blunt instrument - it may restore quietude, but it cannot heal. Governance by military-lite decrees cannot substitute for institutions.
The legal questions also remain alive. Several constitutional suits filed against the emergency proclamation are still pending at the Supreme Court. Legal purists argue that even if the measure has expired, the Court must rule, to determine whether Tinubu’s action was lawful. If the Court ducks the question, a dangerous precedent is set: that presidents can suspend democracy in a state over political quarrels dressed up as security concerns.
Meanwhile, Rivers people are caught in the middle. Many welcomed the lifting of emergency rule with relief; markets in Port Harcourt reportedly buzzed with cheer as the announcement filtered through. But relief is tempered by cynicism. Ordinary citizens know that their suffering was not caused by bandits or insurgents but by politicians’ egos. Their taxes were collected, their votes cast, but their state was reduced to a plaything of big men quarrelling over control. It is difficult to clap for a return to normalcy when normalcy itself remains fragile.
The likely flashpoints in the coming weeks are obvious: budget passage, appointments, control of local governments, and the allocation of patronage. Each will test whether the so-called “groundswell of understanding” is real or a mirage. Already, whispers abound that Wike’s loyalists, now emboldened, expect to dictate terms, while Fubara, fortified by his reinstatement, is keen to assert independence. A clash of wills seems inevitable.
What then is the way forward? First, institutions must be strengthened. If a state assembly can be burnt down and split into rival camps without swift judicial resolution, democracy is weakened. If Abuja must always intervene when governors and predecessors quarrel, Nigeria becomes a federation in name only. Rivers should remind us that political disagreements are not grounds for federal receivership; they are tests for institutions - courts, assemblies, civil society - to prove their resilience.
Second, politicians must learn restraint. Fubara must realise that governing is not the same as winning a wrestling bout with his godfather. Wike must accept that he cannot remain governor by proxy from Abuja. Both must swallow pride, however bitter, and deliver to the people who elected them. Otherwise, history will judge them as men who turned Rivers into a circus.
Third, Nigerians must demand accountability. It is not enough to cheer the return of civilian governance; citizens must insist on delivery - on schools, hospitals, roads, security. Politicians thrive on distraction; the people must insist on performance. In the final analysis, the lifting of emergency rule in Rivers is not the end of a story but merely an interlude. The unresolved issues remain, the egos remain, the temptations of power remain. If lessons are not learnt, Rivers will relapse, and another ‘breaking news’ will announce not peace restored but chaos renewed. For now, we watch, we hope, and we brace. Because in Nigeria, politics is rarely final - it is always the first part of the next sequel.
Carloha Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to redefining vehicle ownership in Nigeria with the unveiling of the Chery tiggo 9 SUV and the CarlohaCare brand at the Landmark event Centre, Oniru, Lagos. the company said its goal is to ease access to modern mobility while setting a new standard of after-sales excellence through CarlohaCare 6-6-7.
According to mr. Sola Adigun, managing Director of Carloha Nigeria, the CarlohaCare 6-6-7 initiative is the boldest customer-focused service promise in Nigeria’s auto industry. He explained that the programme, which offers 6 years warranty, 6 years free scheduled maintenance, and a 7-day repair promise with a courtesy car guarantee, positions Carloha as the best aftersales car brand in the country, ensuring peace of mind, reliability, and long-term value for its customers.
Speaking about Chery’s global success and technology leadership, mr. Adigun noted that Chinese innovation is redefining the automotive industry worldwide. He pointed out that Chery, China’s largest vehicle exporter, has consistently led this revolution, with its recent milestone of five million vehicle exports underscoring global confidence and acceptance of the brand. He stressed that Nigerian customers can now experience the same world-class quality that is winning recognition in over 80 countries.
mr. Adigun further reiterated Carloha’s invest-
Why
ment in human capital, highlighting ongoing efforts to train Nigerian technicians to world-class standards. He explained that this will ensure that every Chery vehicle sold in Nigeria is backed by strong local expertise and reliable parts availability.
Speaking during the event, the General manager, marketing, mr. taiwo Akinpelu, described the tiggo 9 as a landmark addition to Nigeria’s SUV market.
He said the tiggo 9 is a family-oriented SUV that combines cutting-edge technology, premium comfort, and unrivalled safety standards, making it the most reliable choice in its category today.
He added that the tiggo 9’s advanced driverassist features, robust safety architecture, and luxurious design have been crafted for both families and businesses.
Suzuki Deserves a Look as Compact SUVs Are Winning in Nigeria
In Nigeria’s ever-evolving automotive landscape, one trend is clear: compact Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) are taking over. As road conditions and the growing complexity of city life challenge the dominance of sedans, more drivers are turning to smaller, more versatile SUVs that offer both comfort and resilience. the compact SUV segment has become a battleground for manufacturers from Japan, Korea, China, and the U.S., each offering models tailored
to different needs — from fuel efficiency to off-road capability. but among the crowd, Suzuki’s lineup quietly makes a compelling case. Fuel efficiency that matters
With petrol prices on the rise, fuel economy is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity. Suzuki’s Grand Vitara, for instance, reportedly covers up to 23 kilometres per litre, making it one of the most fuel-efficient options in its class.
that kind of mileage means fewer stops at the pump and more freedom on the road — whether you are commuting in Lagos or heading out to Onitsha.
Compact Doesn’t mean Compromise
Suzuki’s approach to compact SUVs blends Japanese engineering with practical features. the Grand Vitara, available in GL and GLX trims, offers a modern dashboard with touchscreen display and a 360-degree camera — features that enhance both safety and driving confidence. then there’s the Jimny, a rugged 4x4 that’s built for Nigeria’s toughest terrains. Its compact size belies its off-road capabilities, making it a favorite among adventure seekers and rural drivers alike.
For those who prefer city driving, the Fronx
brings a touch of urban sophistication, with connectivity features and a sleek design that doesn’t sacrifice fuel efficiency.
built for Nigerian roads
With a ground clearance of 210mm, a 1.5L engine, and automatic transmission, the Grand Vitara is designed to handle both city potholes and country roads. Its 45-litre fuel tank means fewer refueling stops, and its five-seat capacity makes it a practical choice for families and professionals alike.
Coscharis motors plc., a leading name in the automotive industry and the trusted representative of major international automobile brands in Nigeria, is thrilled to announce its participation at the highly anticipated polo tournament scheduled to hold at the prestigious Kano polo Club in Kano from September 21st to October 4th, 2025.
“We are really delighted to participate in the polo tournament which is to showcase our commitment to delivering value to our customers at all times even at their leisure time. the game of polo is a perfect fit for our auto brands, as the event profiles the same intended targets for Coscharis motors. Also the fun concepts links directly with the brands’ orientation of joy and pleasure which
FAW Nigeria Unveils Range of Luxury Electric Vehicles
range
It was a spectacular display of innovation and elegance as FAW Nigeria unveiled its latest range of luxury electric vehicles (eVs) at the grand launch of Lekki Avana phase 2 on September 11, 2025, showcasing the future of Nigeria’s green mobility. the event attracted an impressive mix of dignitaries, including government functionaries, traditional rulers, real estate stakeholders, and celebrities led by football legend Kanu Nwankwo, who were all captivated by the powerful sight of the new eV fleet. the Lagos State Governor, represented by the Director of Lands and Housing Development, eSV Collins Olushina Alabi commended the initiative, describing the unveiling and the launch as a big one for Lagosians and Nigerians at large. Guests were particularly impressed with the FAW mini eV, a compact yet stylish vehicle boasting a maximum power of 20kW, four seats with a threedoor design, and a unique gaming controller-style interior. Safety and comfort are at its core with features such as automatic emergency braking, rear parking sensors, a high-strength cage body, tire pressure monitoring, and AbS anti-locking brakes. the mini eV delivers a range of up to 220 kilometers on a single charge and achieves a top speed of 100km/h—making it ideal for urban commuters seeking efficiency without compromising safety. equally commanding attention was the mVp eV a more powerful option built for longer drives powered by a 53kW motor with 120kW max power and 85Nm torque, supported by a lithium iron phosphate battery that charges in just 60 minutes on fast charge or 8 hours on slow charge. it combines performance and comfort with dual airbags, AbS, brake Assist, tCS, eSp, rear camera with parking assist, single-side sliding door, leather seats, a 10”LCD screen, LeD headlamps, LeD daytime running lamps, and electric AC.
resonates perfectly with the lifestyles of our priority audiences across our robust brand portfolio. “said Abiona babarinde, General manager marketing and Corporate Communications at Coscharis Group. “through our participation as a partner, we aim not to only showcase our robust product portfolio but also to connect with customers and prospects alike fostering lasting relationships built on trust and reliability in delivering value for their money over the years. the beauty of our participation at this year’s event is that you stand to get various discount offerings across various brands of any vehicle together with our Certified Technicians on ground to give you first hand Professional aftersales guide on how best to take care of your vehicles to have that ‘peace of mind’ after every purchase from Coscharis motors; thereby delivering a one – stop shop at our stand”.
Lagride Expands Fleet with 100 Electric Vehicles, Unveils New Leasing, Driver Ownership Packages
Lagride, the official government backed e-taxi service for Lagos, has added another 100 electric vehicles to its growing fleet. The addition deepens the city’s shift to cleaner, smarter and more reliable mobility, while maintaining the cadence of weekly fleet expansion to meet rising demand through the ember period.
Speaking at the Alausa media Day, Ifeanyi Abraham, pr and Communications Leader who hosted the event, set out the platform’s promise to the city. He noted that in global hubs such as Dubai, government supported e-taxis set the pace on safety, affordability and reliability, and that Lagos is now moving decisively in the same direction with professional driver training, technology that serves the public and vehicles that protect the environment.
Adeniyi Saliu, Executive Director at Lagride amplified this direction by linking the eV rollout to Lagos State’s economic vision. He highlighted shorter wait times, lower emissions and higher reliability during peak travel, and explained how Lagride’s expansion is designed to create thousands of dignified jobs across
operations, maintenance and driver pathways, while improving daily life for residents and visitors.
A defining element of Lagride’s model is a rigorous maintenance
culture. this culture spans scheduled preventive servicing, dataguided diagnostics, quality parts and trained technicians, and is reinforced by continuous driver education on care, safety and efficiency. The outcome is reliability on the road, longer vehicle life and a consistently better rider experience. As Saliu put it in his remarks, the difference Lagosians will feel is not only new vehicles but the discipline that keeps them operating at a high standard, day after day.
Electric vehicles built for Lagos
The new EVs are specified for urban performance and efficiency. They can travel over 333 kilometres on a single charge, and can recharge to operating readiness in as little as 30 minutes under rapid charging conditions. With multiple charging stations now available across Lagos, routing and driver scheduling are planned to keep vehicles in service and riders moving with minimal downtime. Lower running costs mean drivers retain more income, and quieter, emissions-free operation contributes to a cleaner, healthier city.
Coscharis Motors Storm Kano Polo International Tournament
The Chery Tiggo 9 SuV
Suzuki Grand Vitara
lagride’s 100 electric vehicles
latest
of luxury electric vehicles unveiled by
FRSC’s New Roadworthiness Inspections
Adedayo Adejobi
Every year, millions of Nigerians are forced through the grind of roadworthiness certification in the name of safety. Yet the same government that polices their cars leaves highways cratered, flooded, and deadly. The irony is glaring: motorists must prove their vehicles are fit for the road, but the roads themselves remain unfit for vehicles. Adedayo Adejobi writes
On a humid Tuesday morning in Lagos, Sunday Okon, a 42-year-old banker, set out early to the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) in Ojodu berger. His plan was simple: renew his roadworthiness certificate. But what should have been a quick administrative stopover stretched into a two-day ordeal. There were endless queues, contradictory instructions, and a payment slip that mysteriously grew by N2,000 after “processing charges.”
By the time he left, humiliated and exhausted, his frustration boiled over.
“They treat you as though you are guilty for owning a car,” he sighed, clutching his papers.
Sunday’s story is far from unique. Across Nigeria, motorists are wasting hours—sometimes days—at the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) or VIO offices in pursuit of roadworthiness certification. The scheme, billed as a safety measure, has become instead a crucible of lost productivity, arbitrary charges, and the constant shadow of extortion.
The scale of this inefficiency is staggering. Nigeria, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has over 15 million registered vehicles, nearly half of them private cars. If even a fraction of their owners spend a day at inspection offices, the cumulative loss in manhours is vast.
What is sold as a safety net often feels more like a trap, a system where enforcement is less about keeping vehicles fit for the road and more about squeezing citizens who already live under heavy economic strain.
Meanwhile, the irony glares from every pothole and flooded underpass: while government officials zealously demand that motorists prove their cars are “roadworthy,” whilst the roads themselves remain anything but car worthy. From cratered highways in the southwest, east, and North-Central, to the flooded arterials of Lagos, drivers spend fortunes repairing damage caused not by negligence but by the very infrastructure they are forced to use.
At VIO offices in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and Kano, long queues are now routine. Motorists arrive before dawn to beat the backlog, only to be kept waiting for hours. Those who complain are told to “cooperate”—a euphemism for greasing palms to get faster service. For workers like Sunday, that means wasted workdays. For self-employed Nigerians, it means lost income.
The financial burden cuts just as deep. Officially, renewing a certificate costs between N5,000 and N10,000 for private vehicles, N12,000 to N25,000 for commercial buses, and up to N35,000 for heavy-duty trucks.
Add in “processing charges” and bribes, and the figure
climbs further. For a family with two cars in Lagos, the annual outlay could easily exceed N15,000—a painful bite in an economy where minimum wage is N70,000.
Sadiq Agbede, an automobile mechanic in Ibadan, told the reporter that many of his clients now weigh school fees or groceries against paying for “this paper.” “People are asking: should I feed my children or renew my certificate?” he said. What rubs salt in the wound is the double standard. While private motorists are hounded, commercial drivers—especially Lagos’s notorious danfo operators—appear to enjoy immunity.
Their yellow buses weave recklessly through traffic, often with bald tyres and cracked windscreens. They overload passengers, drive against traffic, and flout basic rules of courtesy and safety. Yet a quick handshake to an officer is usually enough to clear them.
“It’s as though owning a private car is a sin in Nigeria,” said Bolaji Bada, a civil servant in Lagos, “The danfos get away with murder every day, while we are the ones punished.”
On a weekday morning in Oshodi, the hypocrisy is on full display. Danfo buses mount sidewalks, bully their way across junctions, and ignore traffic lights. Police and VIO officers wave them on after pleasantries and sometimes a discreet bribe exchange. Meanwhile, a private Corolla owner who pulled over for a “routine inspection” is fined and delayed. Enforcement, in this picture, looks less like safety and more like selective persecution.
And when danfos crash, the consequences are often fatal. At Bolade, Oshodi intersection in January 2025, a danfo driver ran a red light and rammed into a commercial motorcycle. One passenger died instantly; the rider was dragged under the bus and survived with severe injuries. Four months later, in May 2025, another danfo, reportedly driven by an intoxicated driver, lost control in Abule Egba
and smashed into an oncoming vehicle, injuring several passengers, including a couple seated in the middle row. Earlier, at Orile, ASCON Bus Stop, a collision between a container truck and a danfo left the conductor, Saheed, dead at the scene, while an okada rider caught in the crash was seriously injured.
These are not freak accidents—they are routine headlines. Lagos’s Vehicle Inspection Service in May 2025, recently revealed it had impounded more than 200 rickety danfos and minibuses in one sweep, vehicles that officials themselves admitted were unsafe for public roads on account of faulty components such as expired tires, malfunctioning brakes, and rusted frames.
Lagos may seem like an outlier, but the story is national. The National Bureau of Statistics reported a 24 percent jump in road accidents in the last quarter of 2023, with commercial vehicles most frequently involved. Across the country that year, more than 10,600 crashes left over 70,000 people injured or dead. Two-thirds of the vehicles involved were commercial buses, minibuses, or haulage trucks.
The Federal Road Safety Corps has noted repeatedly that in such crashes, passengers bear the heaviest burden, a stark reminder that recklessness in commercial driving disproportionately harms ordinary Nigerians. States like Ogun, Kaduna, and the FCT routinely record some of the highest crash numbers, showing that the problem is widespread.
Against this backdrop, the government’s obsession with hounding private car owners rings hollow. If roadworthiness inspections were truly about safety, danfos and other forms of commercial transportation would be first in line, not last.
Education in Cross River Under Stephen Odey
As this part of the world moves fast into literacy, it is important to understand what leaders are doing to shape the future of the upcoming generation. Step forward, Prof. Stephen Adi Odey, the Commissioner of Education in Cross River State.
Odey is a refined Yache-born academic giant, legal luminary, industrial sociologist, astute leader with prudent process in administration, and most interestingly, an unmatched philanthropist. He is focused, determined, disciplined, and meticulous in all his approaches.
He comes from a modest background and has achieved significant strides in his academic and political career. He has held other key positions in the last administration, which have helped in sharpening his political acumen. in 2011, he was appointed personal assistant and later Special Adviser to Senator Benedict Ayade - Senator representing the Northern Senatorial District of Cross River State in the National Assembly. He was also appointed Executive Chairman, Cross River State Universal Basic Education Board in 2015, and later in 2017, he was appointed Acting Managing Director of Cross River State Water Board Limited, a position a held until 2019, when he was reappointed to the Chairmanship of Cross River State SUBEB by Governor Ayade in 2019. As Chairman, he initiated 479 projects, out of which 452 were successfully completed.
Similarly, the Commissioner in 2020 became a Senator after winning the Bye-election that saw him fill the vacancy left by the demise of former Senator, Rose Okoh, who died at 63. In the annals of Nigerian political history, only a few men can bridle their national ego to take on a job few steps below their former role along the political positional totem-pole.
In spite of his former position as senator, Odey didn’t
let pride rob him of his love for service to humanity. Upon assuming office as Governor Bassey Otu appointed Odey as Commissioner for Education, Cross River State, Nigeria, on August 16th, 2023.
Following the appointment, Odey quickly sprang into action by putting technicalities in place as well as redrafting a new educational template. He abruptly began setting out a convenient modus operandi and a legal framework that would not just change the polity, but one that will outlive the currency of his time.
As a servant leader, the Commissioner facilitated the registration of 16,301 SS3 students of Cross River State in the 2024 MAY/JUNE WAEC, which was duly approved by
the Governor of the state. He is indeed a saviour who came to rescue Cross River State students and pupils from illegal extortions from school Principals with the recovery of 20,000,000 naira within the time under review.
He sponsored students’ participation at State and Zonal levels of National, Democratic and Legislative Studies; Secondary Schools Quiz Competition 2023 held in Calabar and Uyo, October/November 2023.
We cannot overstate Odey’s impact in the Cross River State Educational landscape by organising the 2023/2024 Read and Write Competition, and the final was held in the Central Senatorial District (Yakurr LGA) . He also facilitated the Procurement and supply of Safety Life Jackets (floaters) for use by teachers in riverine areas of Bakassi LGA to address the challenge of riverine Schools.
On the aspect of educational policy, the Commissioner is not relenting. We’ve seen him issue several memos to the State Executive Council. In March 2024, he submitted a Memo on Approval for the Registration of Candidates of CRS origin in public Secondary Schools for WAEC. And in June, 2024 there was a Memo on Ratification of His Excellency the Governor’s approval of the sum of N110,000,000 for the conduct of 2024 CRS Primary and Secondary School Examinations. While in December of the same year, there was a repealing of the State Secondary Education Board existing law and disarticulation of Junior Secondary School from Senior Secondary School in the State, as presented by the honourable Commissioner. There’s no gainsaying the fact that when real Leaders emerge, they become the pride of their community and state. Prof Stephen Adi Odey is not just the pride of Iyala people. He has become an insignia of Educational and political success, generally to the Cross River State People by winning an Award as the Best Commissioner for Education in Nigeria by National Leadership Award Limited, held in Abuja, October 9, 2024.
Allison Abanum
Odey
Kayode Ojo :
My Governorship Bid Backed by Ekiti
People, Not Godfathers, Presidency
The race for the 2026 Ekiti governorship election is heating up, and one of the most talkedabout aspirants is businessman and Pro-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Engineer Kayode Ojo, who is commonly reffered to as EKO by his supporters. Declaring that his bid is powered by the people and not by political godfathers or the Presidency, Ojo insists that Ekiti stands at a turning point where bold, transformative leadership is required. For him, the election is not just another contest for power, but a movement to rescue the state from what he describes as stagnation, waste, and exclusionary politics. Ojo in this conversation outlines his vision for Ekiti’s future, promising to focus on smart infrastructure, youth empowerment, and education renewal within his first year in office. While critics allege that his candidacy is secretly backed by the Presidency to unsettle Governor Biodun Oyebanji who is seeking re-election, Ojo dismisses such claims as fiction, asserting that his only true backers are the people of Ekiti who, he says, are yearning for genuine leadership rooted in service, not self-interest. Oluchi Chibuzor brings the excerpts:
Kayode Ojo
My First Year as Governor Will Focus on Smart Infrastructure, Youth Empowerment, Education Renewal
What inspired your decision to formally join the 2026 Ekiti governorship race at this time? My decision to formally enter the 2026 Ekiti governorship race is not driven by personal ambition, nor by the influence of any political godfather or external endorsement. It is, rather, a solemn response to the heartfelt call of my people. Over the years, I have witnessed the yearning of Ekiti citizens for genuine leadership, one that is rooted in service, not self-interest. In both 2018 and 2022, I contested with unwavering commitment and was met with overwhelming grassroots support. Yet, despite the clear will of the people, victory was unjustly denied. I did not retreat out of bitterness, but I return now out of duty. Ekiti stands at a pivotal moment in its history, a crossroads where the choice is between continued stagnation or bold transformation. This is not a campaign born of convenience, it is a movement born of necessity. I am not here to manage decline, I am here to reconstruct our future. What we are embarking upon is not a mere political contest, it is a revolution of values, vision and veracity.
You have said your mission is to“rescue Ekiti,” what exactly are you rescuing the state from?
When I speak of rescuing Ekiti, I speak of liberating our state from the shackles of stagnation, mismanagement and exclusionary politics. Ekiti, once revered for its intellectual prowess and cultural dignity, has been reduced to a shadow of its potential. The current trajectory is unsustainable, and the people deserve better. We are escaping a metaphorical Egypt, a place marked by broken promises, underutilised potential and systemic neglect. The journey ahead is towards a promised land, one defined by innovation, prosperity and restored dignity. This is not mere rhetoric, it is a call to action. The landlord mentality, where governance is treated as personal property and citizens are reduced to tenants, must be dismantled. In its place, we shall usher in a new era of citizen-driven governance, where every Ekiti person is a stakeholder in the state’s progress. This rescue mission is about reclaiming our collective destiny.
As a businessman and Pro-Chancellor of UNN, how does your experience prepare you for the office of governor?
My professional journey spans the worlds of enterprise, academia and public service, each of which has uniquely prepared me for the responsibilities of governance. As a businessman, I have built billion-naira enterprises across continents, navigating complex markets and delivering sustainable growth. This has endowed me with a deep understanding of economic systems, strategic planning and resource optimisation. As Pro-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, I have chaired governing councils, overseen institutional reforms and championed academic excellence. These experiences have sharpened my leadership acumen and reinforced my commitment to inclusive development.
Governance, at its core, is about managing people, resources and expectations. My leadership is not theoretical, it is practical and proven. Whether in boardrooms, campuses or communities, I have demonstrated the ability to lead with integrity, vision and results. Ekiti deserves a governor who is not learning on the job, but one who arrives fully prepared.
What would be the three top priorities of a Kayode Ojo administration within the first year in office?
A Kayode Ojo administration will hit the ground running with three immediate priorities, each designed to lay the foundation for long-term transformation. Under Smart Infrastructure, we shall commence the launch of the Ekiti to Lagos Super Highway, a strategic artery that will boost commerce, connectivity and regional integration. This road will directly link to Lagos seaport, where goods due for the northern parts of Nigeria will be moved to Ekiti Dry port for clearance, thereby turning Ekiti to a regional logistics hub. Simultaneously, we will
modernise rural roads to ensure that development reaches every corner of the state. In the area of Youth Employment, through the activation of the Public Works Corps and the establishment of Tech Incubation Hubs, we will create thousands of jobs and empower young people with the skills needed for the digital economy. Our youth will no longer be idle, they will be innovators. In terms of Education Reform, we will digitise classrooms, upgrade school facilities and launch vocational centres tailored to the demands of the modern workforce. Education will not only be accessible, it will be transformative. These priorities are not isolated projects, they are interconnected pillars of a broader vision to make Ekiti globally competitive.
You have criticised the current administration for wasting resources, what specific alternative plans would you implement to improve Ekiti’s infrastructure?
The current administration’s approach to infrastructure has been marred by inefficiency, opacity and a lack of strategic foresight. My alternative is rooted in innovation, accountability and sustainability. We shall establish a Smart Infrastructure Delivery Unit, a specialised body tasked with overseeing project execution, ensuring transparency and eliminating waste. Procurement processes will be fully digitised, allowing for real-time tracking and public oversight. Furthermore, we will fast track infrastructure projects through Public Private Partnerships, leveraging private sector expertise and capital to deliver high-impact results. From light rail systems to solar-powered mini grids, our infrastructure will be climate-conscious, inclusive and designed to meet global standards. Ekiti will no longer be a state of abandoned projects and inflated contracts. Under my leadership, every naira spent will be a naira invested in the future.
Some party members have accused Governor Oyebanji of sidelining APC loyalists in appointments. How will you address internal party grievances differently if elected?
If entrusted with the mandate to lead, I shall institutionalise a culture of transparency and meritocracy in all appointments. Governance must reflect the values of inclusion, fairness and competence. No loyal party member should feel alienated or undervalued. Every appointment under my administration will be guided by a balanced consideration of loyalty, capability and grassroots representation. Ekiti is not a state of a few privileged individuals—it is a collective of vibrant communities, each deserving of a voice in the affairs of government. I will ensure that every ward is represented, not merely symbolically, but substantively. This is not about patronage,
it is about partnership. Every loyalist will have a stake, and every stakeholder will be respected.
Critics say the APC risks deepening internal division ahead of the election. How do you intend to unify the party if you win the primary?
Unity is not achieved through rhetoric, it is earned through fairness. If I am privileged to win the primary, my first task will be to heal and harmonise. I shall establish reconciliation committees across the state, composed of respected elders, youth leaders and women representatives. Their mandate will be to listen, mediate and rebuild trust. Furthermore, I will empower the youth and women wings of the party, not as ceremonial bodies, but as engines of mobilisation and policy input. Internal democracy will be sacrosanct—every member will have a voice, and every voice will matter. The APC in Ekiti must become a model of cohesion, discipline and democratic engagement. We cannot afford to fracture; we must forge ahead together.
What makes you a stronger candidate than Governor Oyebanji, who already enjoys endorsements for a second term?
Endorsements, while politically convenient, do not build roads, create jobs, or transform lives. Ekiti needs not another round of recycled slogans, but a bold and actionable vision. I bring a ten-year strategic master plan, meticulously crafted to reposition Ekiti as a globally competitive state. My candidacy is not powered by political convenience or elite consensus, it is powered by the people. I have contested twice, and each time, the people stood firmly behind me. My strength lies not in endorsements, but in execution. I am not here to maintain the status quo, I am here to redefine it.
There are claims that your candidacy is being sponsored and supported by the Presidency to weaken Governor Oyebanji. How do you respond to this?
Such claims are nothing more than political fiction, peddled by those unsettled by the groundswell of support my candidacy enjoys. Let the record be clear, I contested in 2018 and again in 2022, both times without any backing from Aso Villa or any federal influence. My only sponsor is the will of the good people of Ekiti. It is their voices, their hopes and their aspirations that fuel this movement. I am not a tool of any external agenda, I am a servant of Ekiti’s destiny. Those who spread such rumours do so out of fear, not fact.
Some suggest your open alignment with PresidentTinubu’s“Renewed Hope Agenda” is proof of backing from Aso Rock?
My alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda is not a matter of political calculation, it is a matter of shared values. The agenda speaks to innovation, inclusion and prosperity, all of which are central to my own vision for Ekiti. However, it would be a grave misrepresentation to suggest that my campaign is a federal project. This is a local revolution, born of Ekiti’s unique challenges and aspirations. While I respect and support national development efforts, my focus remains firmly on Ekiti. Our people deserve a governor who is rooted in their realities, not one beholden to distant interests. My campaign is national in relevance, but local in purpose
But do you believe your relationship with the Presidency gives you an unfair advantage in this race?
No advantage is unfair when it is earned through years of dedicated service, integrity and a consistent commitment to public good. My relationship with national leaders is not the result of political manoeuvring or patronage, it is founded on mutual respect, shared values and a history of collaboration in the pursuit of national development. However, the true advantage I bring to this race is not proximity to power, it is my track record. I have built successful enterprises, led academic institutions and served the public with distinction. These experiences have equipped me with the tools to govern effectively, not merely to campaign persuasively. The people of Ekiti are not looking for connections, they are looking for competence. That is what I offer.
How would you reassure Ekiti people that your governorship will serve their interests first, and not just Abuja’s agenda?
My governorship will be anchored in the aspirations of Ekiti people, not in the priorities of Abuja. The centrepiece of my manifesto is the Ekiti to Lagos Super Highway, a visionary infrastructure project that will link Ekiti directly to the seaport. This will transform our state from a landlocked region into one of Nigeria’s most attractive destinations for commerce, investment and tourism. This highway is not merely a transport corridor, it is a gateway to prosperity. It will reduce logistical costs for our farmers and manufacturers, open up new markets, and position Ekiti as a strategic economic hub in the South West. With this project, we are rewriting the geography of opportunity. In addition, we shall develop agro-cargo logistics centres to support our agricultural value chains, ensuring that Ekiti’s produce reaches national and international markets efficiently. We will invest in digital infrastructure to empower our youth, decentralise healthcare through mobile clinics and solar-powered health centres, and reform education to reflect the needs of our communities. Every initiative in my blueprint is tailored to Ekiti’s unique context. Abuja may have its agenda, but I have Ekiti’s vision. My loyalty is to the people who have entrusted me with their hopes, and I shall serve them with unwavering dedication.
How do you plan to address unemployment and youth empowerment in Ekiti, given the state’s limited industrial base?
Unemployment in Ekiti is not a permanent condition, it is a challenge that can be overcome through strategic investment and inclusive policy. My administration will establish Industrial Parks across key zones in the state, designed to attract investors, stimulate manufacturing and create thousands of jobs. These parks will be supported by reliable infrastructure and business-friendly regulations. We shall also revive moribund assets, factories, agricultural centres and public works facilities, that have been neglected for years. These will be repurposed to serve modern economic needs and generate employment. Most importantly, we will invest in human capital. Through a comprehensive skills development programme, we shall train 100,000 young people in technology, vocational trades and entrepreneurship. Fountain Holdings, our state-owned investment vehicle, will be restructured to drive job creation and enterprise development. By 2036, our target is to create 200,000 sustainable jobs. Ekiti will become a beacon of innovation, productivity and opportunity.
Ojo
Forging Path to Economic Resilience, Prosperity
It is with a profound sense of humility, immense gratitude, and an unwavering belief in our collective potential that I stand before you today. I am deeply honored to accept to lead the Nigerian Economic Society, a body of intellectual giants and patriots who have, for decades, dedicated their minds to the service of our nation.
I would like to begin by extending my heartfelt thanks to my predecessor, Professor Adeola Adenikinju, whose vision and dedication have guided this society through a period of immense change. To the council members and every member of the Society who placed their trust in me, I say a big thank you. This is not my win alone; it is a victory for every single one of us who believes in a future where the NES is positioned to lead the development of economic policy for our country, guided by data, driven by knowledge, and shaped by the needs of our people.
I consider my election as a powerful statement from our members, a clear signal that we are ready to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world economic practice. While our roots remain firmly in scholarly research, this decision demonstrates our commitment to leveraging the insights and experiences of the industry. I am deeply humbled by this trust and believe that a blend of academic rigor and industry application is precisely what our Society needs to redefine its role in the national policy discourse.
The path ahead is challenging, as our nation stands at a critical crossroads. While we have witnessed a gradual recovery after years of turbulence, citizens continue to face hardship. Recent reports from the Central Bank of Nigeria’s purchasing manager’s index (PMI) indicate sustained expansion in economic activity for eight consecutive months, with 26 of 36 subsectors recording growth, alongside improvements in liquidity and external reserves. Yet, inflation remains elevated, food insecurity and poverty persist, and the urgent tasks of job creation and diversification cannot be ignored.
As the IMF notes, the government must raise growth while adapting to global headwinds. In these times, the voice of the economist, grounded in research and committed to truth, becomes not just important, but essential. Our Society is the compass our nation needs to navigate these turbulent waters.
My vision for the next two years is not merely about managing the society and building on the progress made by my predecessor; it is about transforming it into an indispensable institution at the very heart of Nigeria’s economic discourse and development. I believe that to truly consolidate the gains of the last two years, we must build the capacity and structures necessary to become the nation’s premier think tank, a hub of intellectual excellence, a source of credible data, and the
Corps Member Trains Bayelsa Students On Lifesaving Skills, SDGs
prosper taiwo
A National Youth Service Corps member, Blessing Nwokeoma, has trained over 40 students of Government Secondary School, Ovom, Yenegoa, Bayelsa State, on basic first aid and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The exercise, part of her Community Development Service, was held in partnership with the Nigerian Red Cross Society and the Nigeria Network of NGOs.
Trainers taught the students how to handle emergencies, provide basic life support, and respond to accidents at school and in their communities.
While speaking with journalists after the event, Nwokeoma said the initiative would equip teenagers in the community with skills that could save lives,
go-to partner for sustainable policy solutions.
This is the mission we embark on today.
To achieve this, we must first look inwards and chart a clear course. As economists, we understand a fundamental truth that has been painfully demonstrated in our nation’s history: without a well-defined NES development plan, progress is often fragmented, and potential remains largely untapped. As a society of economic thought leaders, it would be a grave oversight to navigate our own future without a strategic roadmap. Therefore, in the coming months, we will embark on a collaborative process to develop a new Strategic Plan for the Nigerian Economic Society. This plan will not be crafted in a vacuum. It will be a collective effort, welcoming the invaluable input of our members, the wisdom of the College of Fellows and Past Presidents, and the dedication of our council members. This document will serve as our guide, a compass to reposition us, define our future trajectory, and ensure that our actions are deliberate, impactful, and aligned with our shared vision.
This vision will be anchored on four core pillars, forming the bedrock of our work: Pillar 1: Reclaiming Our Voice: EvidenceBased Policy Advocacy. For too long, the link between academic economic research and real-world policy formulation has been tenuous. Our first pillar is to bridge this chasm. We will establish a new Policy Advocacy and Engagement Committee that will be the bridge between our members’ research and the corridors of power.
This committee will be tasked with:
•Quarterly Policy Briefs: We will publish concise, timely, and data-driven policy briefs on key national economic issues. These briefs will not be theoretical; they will offer clear, actionable recommendations for policymakers in government and the private sector.
• Structured Dialogue: We will initiate a series of high-level roundtables with key government ministries, agencies, and legislative bodies. These meetings will move beyond one-off events to become a sustained, structured dialogue where we can present our research and collaborate on solutions.
•State-Level Impact: Our work must not be confined to the federal capital. We will empower and support our state chapters to engage directly with their State Governments, providing expertise on state-specific economic challenges and helping to develop tailored solutions that can drive growth from the grassroots up. In areas where capacity is lacking, the Society shall deploy expertise from around the country and the diaspora to work with and build the capacity of local chapters in addressing state-specific challenges.
Pillar 2: Investing for Tomorrow - Youth and Capacity Building
The future of Nigeria’s economy rests on the shoulders of our young people. My
while partners commended her for raising a new generation of first aiders.
She said, “The training aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals 3, 4 and 17, which stress the need for goodness and well-being, quality education and partnership respectively.”
In his remarks, the Executive Director, Nigeria Network of NGOs, Oyebisi B. Oluseyi, expressed delight at the training and commended Nwokeoma for undertaking it. He said, “I am particularly thrilled that Blessing is carrying out these important activities as a personal Community Development Service initiative, a volunteer project that reinforces active citizenship.
“As we raise the profile of skills-based volunteering in Nigeria, we at the Nigeria Network of NGOs are glad that this initiative is also supported by the Nigerian Red Cross Society, a foremost volunteer-based organisation.
“Giving life-saving skills to teenagers adds to the pool of individuals who already have this skill that is necessary for keeping life going in an emergency.”
second pillar is a total commitment to building the next generation of economic leaders. We will transform our society into a launchpad for young talent through the following initiatives:
• The NextGen Economists Programme: We will launch a flagship mentorship programme that pairs experienced members of the Society with aspiring young economists. This programme will be more than just guidance; it will be encouragement to students in our universities to have a functioning NESA, offering networking opportunities and practical project-based learning.
• National Economic Debating Championship: We will partner with universities and colleges to host an annual nationwide debating championship. This initiative will not only foster healthy intellectual competition but also encourage young minds to engage critically with Nigeria’s most pressing economic challenges.
•Digital Learning Hub: We will work towards establishing a comprehensive digital platform o ering courses on data analytics, econometric modeling, and economic policy writing. This platform will democratize access to critical skills, ensuring that every young Nigerian with a passion for economics can develop their potential, regardless of their location or background.
Pillar 3: The Data Revolution - Driving Research and Innovation
NDLEA Mourns Death of Cross River Commander
michael Olugbode in Abuja
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has announced the sudden death of its Cross River State Commander, Ogbonna Uzoma.
According to a statement issued by the Spokesman of the agency, Femi Babafemi, the report of his death was brought to the attention of the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the agency, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd) in Maiduguri, Borno State, where he was attending a retreat for heads of agencies, organised by the Federal Ministry of Justice.
The late Commander was recently appointed and posted to take over leadership of the Cross River State Command of the agency. He resumed on 18th August 2025 and took temporary accommodation in a hotel in Calabar pending
In a world increasingly driven by data, the Nigerian Economic Society must be at the forefront of the data revolution. Our third pillar is to foster a culture of innovative, rigorous, and relevant economic research. We will:
• Establish a National Economic Data Portal: We will collaborate with relevant government agencies, the National Bureau of Statistics, the Central Bank of Nigeria and our international partners to have a link to the centralized databases of these institutions. This will enable our economists to access up to-date economic data, empowering researchers, policymakers, and journalists with the information they need to make informed decisions.
* The Annual Economic Research Grant: We will inaugurate a new annual grant programme to fund cutting-edge research on topics of national importance, such as technology and economic diversification, the circular economy, and the future of work in Nigeria. This grant will encourage our members to produce world-class research that addresses real-world problems.
Dr. musa, the Director General of the West African Institute for Financial and economic management (WAIFem), delivered this acceptance speech on his election as the 45th president, of the Nigerian economic Society.
when he settled into a befitting accommodation. Ogbonna has been up and doing at his new command and was billed to lead his officers on some scheduled engagements at 10a.m. on Thursday but when his officers didn’t hear from him by 9a.m., they went to his hotel room in company of the hotel staff while several knocks at his door and calls to his telephone line went unanswered.
Attempts by the hotel staff to open or force the door open from outside failed, after which one of the hotel attendants had to go through the ceiling aperture to enter the room and open the door from inside, where they found the Commander’s lifeless body.
The Police Command in the state was promptly alerted after which the Commissioner of Police personally visited the scene while the police continued with investigation of the cause of death.
To assist police investigation, the Chairman/ Chief Executive of the agency has since directed the Zonal Commander, Zone 14 Command of NDLEA, ACGN Mathew Ewah to relocate to Calabar.
baba Yusuf musa
Musa
perSpeCTIVe
Chagoury, Miziara, and City on the Sea
Simbo Olorunfemi and Ade Adefeko
Miziara, with a population of 6,000 people, is a beautiful Lebanese village perched on the Hills of the North Governorate of the country, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. While Lebanon is widely known as a country of diaspora, with more of its people outside the country than within its borders, nowhere is that as pronounced as it is in Miziara, an archetype of the relationship that has existed between the Lebanese and Nigeria, dating back to the late 19th century, starting with migration from Ottoman Syria to the protectorates that later came together as Nigeria. With a Lebanese population of between 30,000 and 100,000 in Nigeria, there are fourth-generation Lebanese-Nigerians who know nowhere other than Nigeria, which they gladly call home.
The main street in Miziara is named “Boulevard Gilbert Chagoury” in honour of its most illustrious son and benefactor, Gilbert Chagoury, who some fondly refer to as “Miziara’s child prodigy”. Speaking to “Middle East Eye’’ years back, the Deputy Mayor of Miziara, Pierre Daaboul, said of Chagoury, “He is like a godfather to us. He can do whatever he wants at the municipality; no need to be elected.” That is for a reason. Chagoury has played a major role in the development of Miziara, with substantial investment in infrastructure and philanthropic support for education in the community. He and his family are highly revered, with the town centre named “Ramez Chagoury Square” in honour of his father.
Perhaps his most significant contribution might be the endur- ing link he has established between the people of the town and Nigeria, which has become their second home. Indeed, Miziara has benefited immensely from the relationship with Nigeria. Just as generations of Lebanese have made a huge impact on the Nigerian economy, so has the payback been felt back home in Lebanon. Reflecting on this, Pierre Daaboul says, “Everything was built with money from Nigeria; our entire economy relies on emigration to Western Africa. Today, about 80 per cent of the village works there because they make much more money there than here.”
Indeed, while Gilbert Ramez Chagoury’s roots go back to Miziara in the North of Lebanon, it can be said that Nigeria, where he was born in 1946 to Ramez and Alice Chagoury and has lived for most of his life, is his home. But for the time he spent in Lebanon, where he was sent to study at the College des Freres Chretiens, it is in Nigeria, a country he is quoted to have said that he has “come to love passionately”, where he has raised his family and begun the business that has made him one of the richest men around. It is in Nigeria that he found fame and fortune.
His return to Nigeria after his studies in Lebanon, he says, was fired by his instinct for entrepreneurship and belief that there were opportunities in Nigeria waiting to be tapped. His return coincided with the immediate post-independence period, when Nigeria faced the task of developing infrastructure from scratch, and he was quick to get involved. His biography states: “He started selling shoes but soon worked his way up to selling a slightly more complex mode of transportation in automobiles. His enthusiasm and leadership caught the eye of his employers to the point that they promoted him to be the youngest regional and then national sales manager in the company”.
He founded “The Chagoury Group” in 1971 and was joined
in 1974 by his brother, Ronald, upon his graduation from Long Beach University in the US, where he earned a degree in Busi- ness Studies. Over the years, The Chagoury Group has grown to become one of Nigeria’s leading conglomerates with interests in construction, real estate, property development, agribusiness, flour mills, water bottling, glass, aluminium, furniture, and hospitality, among others. Some of its notable interests include: Hitech Construction, Nigerian Eagle Flour Mills, Eko Hotels, established in 1977, Tin Can Island Grains Terminal, which was built in 1981, and Eko Atlantic City, a new coastal city built on reclaimed land from the Atlantic Ocean, as a solution to the environmental hazard of coastal erosion and perennial flooding of the Bar Beach area. An 8.5-kilometre-long, elevated sea wall, called the Great Wall of Lagos, was built as a shield from ocean surges. Eko Atlantic City now sits as one of the most prized real estate assets in Africa. The United States is building a new $537 million consulate general, set to be the largest one in the world, in Eko Atlantic City. At various points in Nigeria’s history, when the country has embarked on landmark infrastructure projects, the Chagoury group has played a significant role. Eko Hotels, then known as Eko Holiday Inn, was established to house some categories of international guests who came for FESTAC ’77. The Chagoury group stepped up with a solution to the issue of flooding and coastal erosion that had swept off a larger part of Bar Beach, leading to what it described as “one of the most ambitious land-reclamation projects ever attempted” and the creation of the Eko Atlantic City. The 700km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, currently being built by Hitech, one of the Chagoury companies, is another historic project that has been entrusted to the company to deliver for Nigeria. While some have expressed concerns about the circumstances under which the award of some of the contracts was made on the grounds of a lack of
competitive bidding, the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, argued that the decision on restrictive bidding for Section 1 of Lagos- Calabar Coastal Highway, in favour of the company’s specialisa- tion in concrete infrastructure, scale of equipment, engineering capability, and operational infrastructure as reasons for which it was deemed uniquely qualified for such a large and technically demanding project.
It is gratifying to see project making steady progress, with some of the initial sceptics and critics beginning to change their minds. We look forward to the project being delivered within the timeframe, so that the projected benefits for the corridor and the Nigerian economy can kick in
However, the connection between Gilbert Chagoury and Nigeria has not always been smooth. His relationship with Nigeria’s former Head of State, General Sani Abacha, who died in office in 1998, was controversial, with allegations that he engaged in money laundering on his behalf of Abacha coming to the fore after his death. Chagoury, however, denied knowledge that the funds were stolen. He paid a fine of one million Swiss francs and returned $65 million to Nigeria. The conviction by the Swiss court was said to have been later expunged.
Over time, Gilbert Chagoury’s multi-faceted business conglom- erate have grown in stature, deepening its investment portfolio in Nigeria and other parts of the world. His devotion as a Catholic and philanthropist earned him recognition from Pope John Paul II, who honoured him with the Order of Saint Gregory the Great. Following that, the government of St. Lucia appointed him Am- bassador and Permanent Delegate of St. Lucia to UNESCO and the UN in Geneva in 1995. He was later appointed as the Ambas- sador of St. Lucia to the Holy See. His philanthropic activities in different parts of the world include significant support in Lebanon, Nigeria, and the US. The contribution by the Chagoury group of companies in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic with its donation of One Billion Naira to the Lagos State Government was a landmark. An amateur Artist, Chagoury’s love for the Arts has found expression in different forms, including the donation to the Louvre Museum in Paris of a famous 16th-century six-part tapestry, which he had purchased to ensure the national treasure did not leave France. The museum in 2020 dedicated the “Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury Gallery” to display the six-part tapestry and other works of art donated by the Chagourys. In May 2010, Gilbert Chagoury was honoured by the French Government with the distinction of Commander at the “Ordre des Arts et des Lettres” in recognition of his contributions to the arts and literature. There is no doubt that Gilbert Chagoury has indeed found a home in Nigeria, having invested massively in the country over the last five decades, making a huge impact across various sectors of the economy. The most outstanding achievement has to be the extraction from the jaws of the sea a new city at the bank of the Atlantic Ocean, consisting of 10 million square meters of reclaimed ocean land. The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway might eventually turn out as another significant one. Home, for Gilbert Ramez Chagoury, might have originally been Miziara, on the hills of Lebanon, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, but there is no doubt that he has found a new home, thousands of kilometres away, in Nigeria.
Simbo Olorunfemi is a Communications Consultant and Managing Editor of Africa Enterprise, while Ade Adefeko is Director Corporate and Regulatory Affairs Olam Agri, ex-Officio NACCIMA, and Honorary Consul of Botswana in Lagos.
L-r: Alh Garba musa, former permanent Secretary, ministry of Lands, Kano State; mallam Auwal miko, Head teacher, Hausawa model primary School; Wole Adeniyi, Ce, Stanbic IbtC bank; Alhaji Ahmad Ibrahim muhammad Sekure, Chairman, tarauni Local Government; bridget Oyefeso-Odusami, Head, brand and marketing, Stanbic IbtC Holdings and some students at the handover ceremony of Hausawa model primary School kano forming part of the Stanbic IbtC’s Adopt-A-School initiative.
L-r: Vice Chairman NbA Judiciary Committee Nosa Francis edo- Osagie, Former Attorney General and commissioner for Justice edo State Oluwole Osaze Uzzi and Ogaga Ovhrawa, SAN at the Annual General Conference of the Nigerian bar Association which took place in enugu recently
enior Special Assistant on New media to the Governor of Lagos State, Jubril Gawat; Group Head, marketing and Corporate Communication, Firstbank of Nigeria Limited, mr. Olayinka Ijabiyi; Commissioner of Information and Strategy, mr. Gbenga Omotosho and
=L-r: managing Director, Noor takaful Insurance Limited, mr. rilwan Sunmonu; Vice Chairman, Noor takaful Insurance Limited, mr. Aminu tukur; Chairman, Noor takaful Insurance Limited, Ambassador Shuaibu Ahmed; Senior Associate, Jackson, etti and edu, ms. mariam Akinyemi and Non-executive Director, Noor takaful Insurance Limited, mr. Steve muia during the 8th Annual General meeting of Noor takaful Insurance Limited held in Lagos….. yesterday SUNDAY ADIGUN
Chagoury
•Tourism •Arts&Culture
Ononogbu: We’ll Make National Parks Attractive for Tourism, Revenue Generation
The Board Chairman of the National Parks Service, Dr. Kingsley Ononogbu, shares his goals and burning zeal to develop the parks and use them to boost Nigeria’s tourism sector. Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo brings the excerpts
How do you intend to face the challenge of leveraging the National Parks to make Nigeria a tourist destination?
Nigeria has a whole lot of God-given natural parks that can make it a tourist destination. But the first and foremost thing is to study the terrain and have a general overview of what is in existence and what we need to do to develop it to an attractive standard. It may surprise you that many people are not even aware of the diversity of these parks and the sheer number. We’re talking about nine that have been taken in and recognised as national parks. There are more than 15 or 20 other sites that have not been taken over by the federal government and designated as national parks. For instance, there is a mini-park in Abuja where you have live animals. If you have gone to the wildlife Safari in Kenya, for instance, like I have gone, you wouldn’t believe that this thing is in Abuja. There is another one in Lagos, there’s Arochukwu cave, among others. So, my first assignment as we move on,
is to create the required awareness for people to even be aware of the existing national parks across the nation, which we are already doing. We will determine what needs to be done, those that can be done in the immediate, those for medium term, and those that are for long term periods.
Won’t there be funding gridlock in executing your plans for the National Parks? Or is the agency buoyant enough?
What we want to do is to do a total study of what is on the ground and what needs to be done. Naturally, there will be no time you will have all the money to do all the things you want to do at any point in time. The ones that require some kind of budgetary allocations to be implemented, we’ll make sure those things are captured in next year’s budget preparation. Beyond leisure our National Parks can become another source of revenue generation for the government.
How many of the existing National Parks are likely to be fully developed to the level
becoming a revenue earner for government?
We will prioritise, take two or three at a time and bring them up to, if possible, world-class standard, and create the awareness for people to appreciate that, yes, these things are here. Some Nigerians carry their families and go to Kenya. But if you take your family and go to what we have in Abuja, it may not be totally different from going to Kenya. So, create it where you have advantage as of now. Make it public. And we can measure the level of success in six months time. For instance, some people visit the Abuja mini-park, but very few people that really know about its existence. We can measure, if you create the awareness, on a gap of six months, you can determine the number of people that were coming there before we took over, and the number of people that will come in the next six months or one year with the kind of awareness we want to create.
The Managing Director and CEO of Cross River State Tourism Bureau, Ojoi Ekpenyong speaks about how the state promotes international and local tourism, Carnival Calabar, among other salient issues. Charles Ajunwa brings excerpts:
What tourism products do you have to offer in Cross River State?
Cross River State is the most peaceful state in Nigeria, and It’s the cleanest and greenest city in the country. Cross River State is one of the most endowed in ecotourism. From the creeks of Bakassi to the hills of Obanliku, we are littered with what nature has given to us. Now you talk about the Obudu Cattle Ranch, it’s still available. It’s an escape for weddings, it’s an escape for families, it’s an escape for ecotourism. You talk about the biggest street party in Nigeria, Carnival Calabar. This is the only state that is doing 31 days event, back to back. Our Power Bike Week is from 20th. By the 30th of this month, all the hotels have been taken in Cross River State against December.
Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, recently released funds to enhance the tourism sector. Can you tell us what you intend to achieve with that?
Right now, investors are even more interested than you can think of. The Governor of Cross
River State announced two months ago a N18 billion Sustainable Tourism Investment Fund. That money will take up Obudu Cattle Ranch, it will take up part of Tinapa Hotel, and it will take up part of Marina Resort. We just bought back the Cada Cinema from the former Governor of Edo
State. So Cross River State will soon announce a new brand of that cinema under my watch, as approved by His Excellency, Senator Bassey Otu.
With the Cally Air, the current administration is making efforts to open up Cross River State more to tourists. The Calabar Carnival will be happening soon, are there efforts to address the problem of shortage of accommodations experienced last December, which Governor Otu promised to tackle by building new hotels to support influx of tourists?
This is why I said the Governor had just announced the N18 billion Sustainable Tourism Investment Fund. And I said the money is part of the fund we will use in restoring Tinapa Hotel, Lake Side Hotel is coming back and Obudu Cattle Ranch is also coming back. Axari Towers, the government of Cross River State is also investing in that hotel. And as I speak to you, Metro has just been shut down for renovation. So we have no issue with accommodation. At the time the governor came in, we had about 180 hotels, but now we have 230 hotels.
At Carnival Calabar last December, the governor promised to bring back the international
aspect. Has anything been done to this regard? Last year, we celebrated 20 years of Carnival. This year is going to be one of the biggest carnivals we’ll ever have since the coming of His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Otu. He has promised so and he will keep to his words. He is going to make it grand.
What countries are we looking at this time around?
The Governor has not decided on who is coming from abroad. But very soon he will announce it. But we also see majority of the activities like bikers, parade and all that. Everything is in. It’s going to be more colourful.
There used to be Obudu mountain race, which was a colourful event that also drew visitors to the state. Is there any hope of restoring it?
The Governor has assured Cross Riverians and Nigerians and the world over that we need to fix the ranch before you bring back the mountain race. Bringing the mountain race is not a problem for Cross River. But he does not want to celebrate that kind of event with the facilities still on restoration.
Alda Valentini: We Want More Nigerians To Explore Europe
Alda Valentini, Brand Manager of Podium Tour Operator, speaks about the services offered by her company, her impression about Nigerian tour operators, among others. Charles Ajunwa brings excerpts
Can you tell us about your company, Podium Tour Operator?
We are based in Italy and we have offices also in Spain, France, Vienna, Prague, Budapest, all the nations of Europe. Mainly we tailor-made all tours in order to customise all the needs of the final clients, the tourists. We do groups starting from 10 people and above and we can offer all kinds of services, starting from transfer upon arrival, then hotel accommodation and sightseeing tours, restaurants with special dinner or tasting and entries in museums. Any kind of sightseeing tour and experience you want to try all over Europe. Our main job is to give you an experience. We organise religious tours such as pilgrimages, for example this year in Rome is the year of Jubilee. Or we organise cultural tours visiting more than one country, all the cities of Europe: Paris, London, Barcelona, Vienna, Prague, Budapest, Rome, Florence, Milan for example. And then we organise also school tours especially from Nigeria because there are also colleges or universities also schools’ trips to Europe and they want to do an experience of culture in Europe. So we can provide all these kinds of services starting
from three-star hotel accommodation upon five stars and super luxury tours. We can follow any kind of budget for this kind of holiday.
Talking about budgets, what are we looking at for group of 10 coming from Africa. Are there some criteria?
Let’s say that if you have a request, we work only business-to-business to business means that our clients are travel agents or tour operators from Nigeria or Africans that want to bring their clients to Europe. They ask us to build an itinerary and we do this tailor-made. This is unique. Uniqueness is the main goal that we want to achieve. I mean if a travel agent asks us for a group, this is the only group they can do. We don’t work in a standard method. Everything is tailor-made. This tour will be unique.
They want to travel, for example, next year or from the 10th of January till the 20th of January, we organise this tour with these dates. If they want to change, they want to do more than one country, we can organise tours with more than one nation following their needs. Of course, there is a big team behind this Podium, tour operator, and we
can suggest you giving all the information that you are looking for in order to offer the best trip ever. We also follow budget standards. Sometimes we have a group with a low budget, so we work for good and nice hotels. For example, a three-star hotel. Or if you have a higher budget, we can work with a four-star hotel, a five-star hotel. Price depends also on the accommodation. Centrally located, a little bit far away. Then we can provide bus transportation to reach, of course, the very heart of the cities. There are really a lot of possibilities to create together a tour and a trip in Europe.
How long have you been promoting tourism in Africa and what has been your experience?
We are a group of more than 100 people and we were established in 1991. That means we are more than 34 years old. We have a wide experience. We started to work with Africa about 10 years ago with many nations of Africa. So this is our first fair in Lagos (21st Akwaaba African Travel Market) because some clients suggest us to participate. So far, we saw there is more interest in Europe than ever. So people want to travel. It’s easier to obtain visas for Europe. I think we are a good partner to give all the services needed for being safe, happy
and of course with a great tour.
This is your first time in Nigeria. Can you tell us your impression so far?
The people are very friendly, very competent, meaning that they know what they are selling. They need only a good partner on-site. They are looking for someone like us looking in Europe because of course it’s better having someone that deals everything. And they don’t have the knowledge of course to book, to ask, to have all the information.
Valentini
ekpenyong
Ononogbu
Zenith Bank Sustains Winning Streak
Donatus eleko
Zenith Bank Plc has once again reinforced its leadership in Nigeria’s banking industry, sustaining its winning streak with its strong set of half-year (HI) results for 2025.
The Group’s financial results for the half year ending June 2025 showed an impressive profit before tax of N625.629 billion. Following the robust performance, the Board approved an interim dividend of N1.25 per share, a 25 percent increase over the N1 paid in the first half of 2024, maintaining the bank’s position as a leading dividend-paying bank and reinforcing its longstanding commitment to rewarding its esteemed shareholders.
The substantial dividend payout reflects exceptional underlying performance.
Despite higher provisioning requirements from the industry-wide exit of the CBN forbearance regime, the bank recorded a robust 20 percent year-on-year increase in gross earnings, rising from N2.1 trillion to N2.5 trillion in H1 2025. Interest income drove this performance with an impressive 60 percent growth, climbing from N1.1 trillion to N1.8 trillion. The bank achieved this impressive increase in interest income through strategic repricing of risk assets and effective treasury management.
Commenting on the H1 2025 results, Group Managing Director/CEO, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, noted that Zenith Bank’s performance reaffirms the creativity and innovation of our unicorn workforce in a dynamic operating environment.
“Despite the huge provisioning requirements as the industry exits the CBN forbearance regime, we’ve seen substantial improvement in our asset quality. Our balance sheet remains robust with adequate capital buffers, positioning us well to seize opportunities across our key markets,” she said.
Building on this strong foundation, the GMD/CEO indicated that the bank expects to accelerate its growth trajectory in the second half of the year.
She assured shareholders that the robust performance, combined with the improved asset quality, positions the bank to deliver exceptional returns, with expectations of a quantum year-end dividend for 2025.
“Our shareholders can look forward to continued value creation as we leverage emerging opportunities and maintain our strategic growth with strong corporate governance culture,” she noted, highlighting the bank’s track record of improving dividend payments even during challenging periods.
Looking beyond H1 2025, she reinforced her optimistic outlook: “We’re on a solid growth path that we expect to maintain through the rest of 2025 and into 2026. Our focus remains on innovation, digital transformation, and developing solutions that address our clients’ changing needs.
“With improving market conditions, we’re well placed to sustain this momentum whilst maintaining responsible leadership and delivering exceptional value to all our stakeholders.”
The bank’s financial performance indicates strong fundamentals in a transitioning macroeconomic environment, with profit after tax reaching N532 billion and earnings per share standing at N12.95 for the period under review. Net interest income demonstrated exceptional growth, surging 90 percent year-on-year from N715 billion to an impressive N1.4 trillion, whilst non-interest income contributed N613 billion in H1 2025.
The bank’s total assets expanded to N31 trillion in June 2025, representing steady growth from N30 trillion in December 2024, underpinned by a robust and well-structured balance sheet. Customer confidence remained strong, with deposits growing by seven percent from N22 trillion to N23 trillion in June 2025.
The loan book stood at N10.2 trillion in June 2025 against N11 trillion in December 2024., reflecting the Bank’s prudent risk management approach.
The bank delivered strong returns with ROAE at 24.8 percent and ROAA at 3.5 percent as at June 2025. The cost-to-income ratio stood at 48.2 percent, reflecting necessary provisioning for regulatory compliance and the impact of inflationary pressures.
Asset quality improved significantly, with the NPL ratio dropping to 3.1 percent in June 2025 from 4.7 percent in December 2024.
Zenith Bank maintains a fortress balance sheet with capital adequacy at 26 percent and liquidity ratio at 69 percent, both comfortably exceeding regulatory requirements.
Since opening its doors in 1990, Zenith Bank Plc has grown from a modest financial institution into one of Africa’s most respected banking giants. The financial institution is now synonymous with innovation, resilience, and excellence.
Over the past 35 years, the bank has consistently redefined the standards of service delivery, corporate governance, and digital banking in Nigeria’s everevolving financial landscape.
Zenith Bank’s strategic investments in digital infrastructure, customer-centric services, and prudent
risk management have not only propelled it to the top of the industry. but also helped reshape how Nigerians interact with banking. As one of the earliest adopters of tech-led banking solutions, Zenith Bank became a trailblazer long before fintechs became the norm.
Zenith Bank blazes the trail in digital banking in Nigeria; scoring several firsts in the deployment of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure to create innovative products that meet the needs of its teeming customers.
Driven by a culture of excellence and strict adherence to global best practices, the Bank has combined vision, skillful banking expertise, and cutting-edge technology to create products and services that anticipate and meet customers’ expectations; enable businesses to thrive and grow wealth for customers.
With a team of dedicated professionals, the bank leverages its robust Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure to provide cuttingedge solutions and products through its network of branches and electronic/digital channels.
In addition, Zenith Bank has played a pivotal role in financing critical sectors of the Nigerian economy, understanding that sustainable economic growth requires targeted support for industries that drive development. The bank has consistently provided substantial credit facilities to key sectors including manufacturing, agriculture, oil and gas, telecommunications, and infrastructure development.
For ten consecutive years, Zenith Bank has organised its annual non-oil sector seminar, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda. This forum brings together policymakers, business leaders, and industry experts to discuss strategies for reducing Nigeria’s dependence on oil revenues and developing alternative sources of economic growth.
The bank’s lending strategy goes beyond traditional commercial considerations to support sectors that create jobs, generate foreign exchange, and contribute to Nigeria’s economic diversification. Through structured financing arrangements, trade finance facilities, and working capital support, Zenith has enabled countless businesses to expand operations, modernise equipment, and increase their contribution to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Zenith Bank’s track record of excellent performance has continued to earn the brand numerous awards including being recognised as the Number One Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital for the sixteenth consecutive year in the 2025 Top 1000 World Banks Ranking, published by The Banker and “Nigeria’s Best Bank” at the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2025. The Bank was also awarded Bank of the Year (Nigeria) in The Banker’s Bank of the Year Awards for 2020, 2022 and 2024; Best Bank in Nigeria from 2020 to 2022, 2024 and 2025, in the Global Finance World’s Best Banks Awards; Best Bank for Digital Solutions in Nigeria in the Euromoney Awards 2023; and was listed in the World Finance Top 100 Global Companies in 2023.
Further recognitions include Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria for five consecutive years from 2021 to 2025 in the World Finance Banking Awards and Most Sustainable Bank, Nigeria in the International Banker 2023 and 2024 Banking Awards. Additionally, Zenith Bank has been acknowledged as the Best Corporate Governance Bank, Nigeria, in the World Finance Corporate Governance Awards for four consecutive years from 2022 to 2025 and ‘Best in Corporate Governance’ Financial Services’ Africa for four consecutive years from 2020 to 2023 by the Ethical Boardroom.
The bank’s commitment to excellence saw it being named the Most Valuable Banking Brand in Nigeria in The Banker’s Top 500 Banking Brands for 2020 and 2021, Bank of the Year 2023 and 2024 at the BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards, and Retail Bank of the Year for three consecutive years from 2020 to 2022 and in 2024 at the BAFI Awards. The Bank also received the accolades of Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria and Best Innovation in Retail Banking, Nigeria, in the International Banker 2022 Banking Awards.
Zenith Bank was also named Most Responsible Organisation in Africa, Best Company in Transparency and Reporting and Best Company in Gender Equality and Women Empowerment at the SERAS CSR Awards Africa 2024; Bank of the Year 2024 by ThisDay Newspaper; Bank of the Year 2024 by New Telegraph Newspaper; and Best in MSME Trade Finance, 2023 by Nairametrics. The Bank’s Hybrid Offer was also adjudged ‘Rights Issue/ Public Offer of the Year’ at the Nairametrics Capital Market Choice Awards 2025.
Clearly, Zenith Bank’s half-year 2025 results reaffirm its position as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s financial services sector, demonstrating resilience, innovation, and a consistent focus on delivering value. Despite a complex operating environment marked by elevated interest rates, inflationary pressures, and regulatory shifts, the Bank has sustained growth while strengthening its balance sheet and protecting shareholder interests. This balance of prudence and ambition highlights Zenith Bank’s ability to navigate challenges while keeping its eyes firmly on long-term opportuni-
ties.
The bank’s track record of paying attractive dividends, coupled with its strong profitability and solid asset quality, underscores a business model built on trust, discipline, and foresight. By declaring a 25 percent increase in interim dividend, Zenith has once again shown that it remains committed to rewarding investor confidence while also reinvesting in innovation and expansion. Its ability to sustain such performance, even under pressure, distinguishes Zenith Bank as a leader not just in size, but also in strategy and execution.
Looking ahead, Zenith Bank is well positioned to build on this momentum. With a focus on digital transformation, customer-centric solutions, and sustainable banking practices, the Bank is charting a growth path that balances profitability with impact. As it continues to win recognition both locally and internationally, Zenith Bank remains a symbol of excellence in African banking—setting the standard for stability, value creation, and responsible leadership in 2025 and beyond.
Ovia
Umeoji
TRIBUTE
Joe Ekunno at 85: Legacy of Faith, Love and Service
Kasie Abone
It was a homecoming that stirred both pride and gratitude. For two days, Abagana community came alive in celebration of their son, U.S.-based medical doctor, Dr. Josiah (Joe) Ekunno, marking his 85th birthday; not with flamboyance, but with thanksgiving, family togetherness, and acts of charity.
The celebration began at his country home, where colorful canopies were set, and the compound brimmed with relations, townspeople, and well-wishers eager to honor the octogenarian and his wife. It was the kind of gathering that carried the warmth of village kinship: kinsmen in flowing attire, women balancing trays of food, and music drifting into the twilight.
Food and drinks flowed in abundance, laughter filled the air, and tributes followed one another. His junior brother, Mr. Ikechukwu Ekunno, a pharmacist, raised a heartfelt toast, praising the celebrant’s generosity, steadfastness and echoed his cherished maxim: “Nothing in life is worth spilling one drop of blood.”
Then came a moment that drew tears: his junior sister, Dr. Uzoamaka Aguoji, unveiled a life-sized painted portrait of Dr. Joe, supported by his wife.
Uzoamaka, who had flown in from New York for the event, gave a moving speech, recalling how her elder brother had stood as a pillar for her and their other siblings. “I came to honor him in life, not in death,” she said, her voice breaking to thunderous applause.
The evening climaxed with music, dancing, and the cutting of the birthday cake. Joe and his wife, who have shared over five decades of love, held hands as they swayed gracefully to the rhythm, drawing admiration from younger couples. The celebration was ushered in with a prayer by Venerable Chinwuko of St. James Anglican Church, Abagana, where the next day, Ekunno would lead his family in thanksgiving and charity.
Thanksgiving and Giving Back
At the church service, Ekunno turned the spotlight away from himself and onto God. He made donations toward rebuilding a local primary school and contributed to his parish, emphasising that giving back was the truest way to mark milestones. “It was my desire to celebrate here with my people,” he told reporters. “I wanted to give thanks to God, and I wanted my people to be witnesses before Him.”
A Path Carved by Faith and Grit
His journey to this point was anything but easy. Inspired early by his grandfather, a village herbal healer, and his grandmother, a midwife, he saw healing as a noble calling. A personal childhood wound that required seven injections deepened his resolve to become a doctor.
But obstacles abounded. His father had envisioned a future for him in the classroom, not the consulting room. Yet, his dogged determination to study medicine drove him to seek admission at the prestigious Dennis Memorial Grammar School, Onitsha. With the deadline to pay the £21 school fees fast approaching, and the risk of losing his hard-won place, providence intervened. Help came in the form of a loan from Dr. F. C. Ogbalu, the renowned Igbo language scholar and a fellow townsman, who trusted that Josiah Ekunno Senior, then working in Ottah (in today’s Kwara State), would settle the debt upon his return.
“That was divine help,” he would later reflect. “If not, my journey might have ended there.”
Life at DMGS was far from comfortable. His bed was nothing more than a plank balanced on cement blocks. At one point, he owned just one outfit, which served both for school and for church. Yet, despite the hardship, he graduated with Distinction — and earned a scholarship that became his golden ticket. With that scholarship, the young Joe pressed
L-R: Celebrant’s siblings, Mr. Chizoba Ekunno; Ikechukwu Ekunno, supporting their sister, Mrs. Uzoamaka Aguoji, as she presents a birthday gift to Dr. Josiah Ekunno and wife, Mrs. Irene Ekunno, during the celebration of Ekunno’s 85th birthday at Abagana, Anambra State… recently
forward with excellence and in time, carved his path to medical school.
From Nigeria to the U.S.
Graduating in 1970, he worked in Nigeria briefly before leaving for the United States in 1975 to pursue residency and practical training. There, he built a successful career, overcoming the early barriers of race and bias.
Though he had intended to return, Nigeria’s worsening economy and political instability made it impossible.
“When I left, the naira was strong. By the time I finished residency, it was sinking,” he said. “It was wiser to stay, work hard, and send money home.”
Despite the distance, his ties to Nigeria never weakened. He funded scholarships,
supported medical missions, and mentored countless professionals. Yet he lamented the bureaucracy that discouraged Nigerian returnees. “Meanwhile Ghana opened its doors,” he said. “Today Ghana is far ahead in medicine, while Nigeria keeps losing her best.”
Medicine and Mentorship
Ekunno’s impact goes beyond personal practice. He treasures stories of patients who went on to live full lives because he took risks others would not. One such case was a young Nigerian woman in the U.S. who, under conventional treatment, would have been childless. “I treated her differently, and today she has four children,” he said with quiet pride.
He has mentored dozens of young nurses, doctors, and medical students, many of whom now thrive both in the U.S. and Nigeria. For him, this is the greatest legacy.
Love That Endures
At the heart of his life story is his enduring marriage. He met his wife as a medical student and, more than 50 years later, the bond remains unbroken. At his birthday celebration, the couple’s lively dance reminded guests of their younger days, when they once won a university dance competition.
Asked for the secret, he answered simply: “L-O-V-E. And putting God first.” His wife added: “In everything he does, he puts God first. That has kept us.”
Lessons at 85
Now in his twilight years, Dr. Joe Ekunno focuses on faith, peace, and gratitude. He keeps fit with daily walks, prays constantly, and advises people to live simply. “Don’t be envious of others,” he said. “Where there is peace, there is progress. My mission now is to remind my people that there is a supreme God, and He must be the center of everything.” He does not measure success in wealth or titles but in faith and service. “Fear God. Don’t do to others what you don’t want them to do to you. Live in peace.”
As the celebrations wound down and the music faded, Ekunno and his wife stood hand in hand, smiling warmly at family, neighbors, and guests. At 85, his step is steady, his heart.
Nigerian Political Leaders and Quest for Medical Treatment Abroad
Napoleon Agbelogode
For years, Nigerian leaders have quietly opted for treatment in foreign hospitals. What may have started as individual choices has evolved into a political norm, with significant implications for governance and public trust in the nation’s health care system. Taking a glance at recent history reveals how this trend developed, how it became the norm, and why we need to confront it now.
The shift began under President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua. In November 2009, he traveled to Saudi Arabia for treatment of pericarditis and ended up being away for three months. The lack of transparency around his health sparked a constitutional crisis and made Nigerians realize just how much a president’s health could affect the stability of the nation. Making It Normal
If Yar’Adua’s situation was the trigger, President Muhammadu Buhari’s time in office solidified the trend. In January 2017, Buhari spent almost 50 days in London on medical leave. He returned in May for a follow-up treatment that kept him away for another 104 days. By August 2021, he had racked up nearly 200 days in the UK
for medical trips. Though these absences were publicly acknowledged, it became a norm for Nigeria’s leaders to seek health care abroad without much accountability.
In contrast, Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Olusegun Obasanjo didn’t take extended medical leave overseas during their administrations. Jonathan even pushed for a law in 2014 aimed at curbing medical tourism among public officials. Their leadership serves as a reminder that such a trend isn’t unavoidable.
Today, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been making regular foreign trips that are often labeled as working visits or annual leave. There’s speculation about his health, but the presidency has firmly denied that these trips are for medical reasons. While the official stance isn’t confirmed, the frequency of these travels keeps the conversation going and fuels public skepticism.
The Challenge Yar’Adua’s absence from 2009 to 2010 highlighted the governance risks associated with unclear presidential health. Buhari’s multiple trips to London between 2017 and 2021 helped establish this practice. And the Current Situation is that Tinubu’s journeys keep the controversy alive, though they aren’t officially labeled as medical leave.
Policy Considerations and Moving Forward
There is need to enforce clear disclosure of presidential health statuses and establish protocols for transferring power during lengthy absences. Also, the use of public funds for overseas treatment must be limited to only those conditions that can’t be treated locally. In addition, the country must allocate dedicated funding for tertiary hospitals and create incentives for retaining specialists and maintaining high-tech equipment. We must encourage high-ranking officials to use Nigerian medical facilities in order to show faith in the system as well as release annual reports on overseas medical expenditures by public officials to highlight gaps and track progress.
In Summary
The issue of Nigerian presidents seeking medical care abroad goes beyond a personal health, it reflects our fractured health care system. Without intentional reforms—grounded in transparency, investment, and leading by example—the cycle is likely to persist. And as long as that happens, the trust in the country’s health institutions will remain shaky.
Seven months after an initial loan deal to Glasgow failed, embattled Super Eagles forward, Kelechi Iheanacho signed for Scottish giants, Celtic on a free after agreeing to a termination of his contract with Spanish La Liga side, Sevilla, aiming to make up for lost time at Parkhead.
Iheanacho could not have wished for a better debut for Scottish champions, Celtic when he came off the bench to net a stoppage time winner.
Iheanacho, a free agent signing after his contract was terminated by Spanish side Sevilla, came off the bench with 20 minutes left on the clock, before he put away a stoppage time penalty for Celtic to beat home team Kilmarnock 2-1.
The Nigerian international showed a glimpse of what he could bring to Celtic this season by holding his nerve to convert a 96th-minute penalty away at Kilmarnock on his debut. His goal sparked jubilant scenes in the away end as he went into the Chadwick Stand to embrace the fans.
Iheanacho had worked with Celtic manager, Brendan Rodgers previously at Leicester City, and the 28-year-old forward is delighted to link up with his boss once again.
“We don’t need to talk about that now,” Iheanacho said, when asked about what happened in the winter. “We just need to put that aside and move on to the future. Of course, I always wanted to come to Celtic. It’s a massive club, and obviously, I know the manager as well. It didn’t work at that time, but now I think it’s the right time.
“He (Rodgers) knows me really well, and he can bring the best out of me as well. I think coming here is really good for me as well, to play under him, to play in this great club. I’ll give my best for the club.”
Iheanacho revelled in leaving a positive first impression with the Celtic support. He had only been on the pitch for 25 minutes when the visitors won a last-gasp penalty at Rugby Park, and the ex-Manchester City man knew the importance of converting it.
“It was a massive feeling,” continued Iheanacho. “Everyone was happy, and I could see how happy the fans were and how they felt when they jumped on the pitch. It was a massive win.
“The captain (Callum McGregor) asked if I wanted to take it, and I said, ‘Yes’. So, he said I could take it. This is the moment that you have to celebrate with the fans because it’s a massive win, a massive three points. I thought it deserved to be celebrated.
“It’s massive, really massive, for me. It’s a great opportunity for me here to come to this club and try to make that impact. Going forward, I think it will give me the confidence to show my quality for the club.”
Rodgers says he’s expecting even more from Iheanacho. He was delighted to see the debutant get off the mark with spot-kick and Rodgers is backing his former Leicester City player to make even more of an impact for Parkhead side in big games.
The Northern Irishman predicted that the Nigerian will continue to prove himself to be a big game player after his late penalty claimed a dramatic 2-1 win for Celtic at Rugby Park.
The Nigerian international was signed after the transfer window closed due to being released by Sevilla. Despite struggling to make an impact at Middlesbrough and in Spain lately, Rodgers feels the forward, who he worked with at Leicester, can be a huge hit at Parkhead.
“I was really pleased for Kels,” Rodgers said, “I think the last penalty he took was, for me, at Wembley, when we beat Manchester City in the Community Shield, and he stuck that one away.
“I think that’s a big moment for him, with the supporters and everything.
‘He’s got big moments in him, and once he gets fitter, he’s only going to get better.
“Our penalty taker was off the pitch. Benji (Nygren) wanted it, but my message was for Kels (to take it). I know the confidence he brings and I also know what a goal will do for him.
“I’m delighted for him and for the team because it’s been a long couple of weeks. It’s a big win for us.”
However, Iheanacho’s goal last weekend was his first in over six months as he only found the back of the net once in his time at Middlesbrough after he joined Michael Carrick’s side on loan in February.
Before that, he didn’t find the back of the net in nine league appearances for Sevilla. Reflecting on the criticism he faced at that time, the former Manchester City attacker mentioned it’s a part of the job.
“As a football player, you get this (criticism) all the time,” he said in quotes revealed by Gazette UK.
“When it’s not going really well, you just need to be strong; you don’t need to lose your mind. It’s a professional
game, so you need to just focus and keep doing the work. When it clicks, you just keep going and get there.”
Before joining Middlesbrough in February, the Nigerian forward was linked with a move to Celtic. Still, concerns over his weight were raised, a topic that had also been a constant talking point during his time at Boro, where many fans believed he arrived on Teesside looking out of shape.
The striker has come out to clarify, admitting that while people may have their concerns, he’s in top physical condition. “If you really watch the game, you can see I’m making runs to get the ball. I’m really fit, I’m ready to go for the season.
“Am I ready to play 90 minutes? Of course, you’ll see. If you watch the team, you know that there are a lot of qualities in the team, a lot of great players as well.
“Getting to know the boys, getting to train with them a lot, I think I’ve learned a lot in the last few days,” Iheanacho concluded.
How well Celtic and indeed Brendan is able to revive Iheanacho’s dwindling career remains to be seen and he continues to sing redemption song.
Kelechi Iheanacho opens his celtic account from the penalty spot
Nigeria’s Ezekiel Narrowly Misses World Championship Podium, Sets New Record
Nigeria’s Nathaniel Ezekiel narrowly missed podium place- ment in the final of the men’s 400m hurdles event of the 2025 WorldAthletics Championship in Tokyo, Japan yesterday afternoon.
The American NCAA champion who finished fourth however set a new national record of 47.11 secs to erased his previous best of 47.31.
American Rai Benjamin clocked 46.52 season’s best performance to take the gold and confirmed he’s the king
of the 400m hurdles having won the title at Paris 2024 Olympics. There was however a temporary drama when Benjamin was disqualified after he hit the last hurdle and appeared to have moved into the neighbouring lane but was reinstated after Team USA team appealed against the ruling. Brazilian Alison Dos Santos won the silver with 46.84 seconds while Abderrahman Samba of Qatar settled for
bronze with 47.06 season best to push Ezekiel to fourth place. 2025 world leader and record holder, Karsten Warholm of Norway, faltered in the contest after kicking the third hurdle. Warholm finished fifth with 47.58secs
In the women’s race, Dutch runner, Femke Bol, pulled away from the pack to win a back-to-back title a world-leading 51.54secs. Jasmine Jones of the USA, took the silver with a PB of 52.08 while Emma Zapletova of the Slovak Republic earned bronze with a national record of 53.00.
Galatasaray Set Sept. 30 as Osimhen’s Return Date from Injury
Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen is expected to be sidelined until the end of September due to the ankle injury he sustained while on international duty with Nigeria two weeks ago.
Osimhen sustained an ankle injury in Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers game against Rwanda two weeks ago. Since then, he has not returned to action despite leaving the Super Eagles camp early to receive treatment at Galatasaray.
The 26-year-old striker
missed Galatasaray’s games against Eyupspor last weekend. He was also left out of the squad that suffered a 5-1 loss to Eintracht Frankfurt in the UEFA Champions League on Thursday. At first, Osimhen’s issued looked like a slight knock, as he even walked off the pitch by himself in the game against Rwanda.
But it now looks that Osimhen’s injury was a bit more serious, as he has missed two games for Galatasaray since the international break.
Now, according to a new report by Fanatik, per Hur-
riyet, Osimhen is expected to be sidelined for two more games. This will see him miss Galatasaray’s next two games against Konyaspor and Alanyaspor.
However, he is expected to return to action on September 30, when the Cimbom take on Liverpool at Rams Park in their second game of this season’s Champions League. Galatasaray will likely fare well without Osimhen in their next two Super Lig games. But the Super Eagles star will be key if they wanted to defeat Arne Slot Reds.
Blockbuster Premier League Weekend Live on SuperSport
The Premier League enters Matchday 5 with a packed schedule, with five standout fixtures spread across the weekend. All your favourite games will be broadcast live on DStv and GOtv.
Liverpool open proceedings today at 12:30 pm with the first Merseyside Derby of the campaign.
Also today, Brighton host Tottenham at 3:00 pm. The Seagulls have stuttered recently after a bright start, while Spurs,
boosted by a 3-0 win over West Ham last week and a 1-0 Champions League victory against Villarreal, look well-drilled under Thomas Frank.
Later today at 5:30 pm, Manchester United host Chelsea at Old Trafford. United’s inconsistency under Ruben Amorim has left fans restless after their 3-0 derby defeat against City. Chelsea, meanwhile, suffered their first defeat of the season in
Europe with a 3-1 loss to Bayern Munich, raising questions about their defensive steel. Both sides see this as a must-win fixture to regain momentum.
Tomorrow at 2:00 pm, Bournemouth welcome Newcastle in a battle between sides desperate to climb the table. Newcastle endured a disappointing return to the Champions League, losing 2-1 at home to Barcelona, and have won just once in the league this season.
Adeniran, Rowland Emerge Winner of Nigerian Maritime Golf Challenge
At the end of long hours of exhilarating contests on the lush greens of Ikoyi Club 1938 golf course, David Adeniran and Timi Rowland have emerged as winners in the men and ladies categories of the 2025 Nigerian Maritime Golf Challenge held Thursday.
Adeniran’s 68 points was good enough to beat a strong field that included Frank Gboneme, who finished second with 73 points, whileAbiodun Adeoye with 77 points placed third. In the Ladies category, Timi Rowland, playing one of her best games, in a while, amassed 63 points to see off a strong challenge from Eby
Moses-Madu, who finished as runner up with a score of 67 points. Trophy for the overall gross winner was lifted by His Royal Majesty Oba Ademola Makinde with a score of 81 points. In the veterans’ Nett category, Reginald Okehie won with a score of 74 points while Emmanuel Ogunka with 78 points was runner up. Aniete Udo won Nearest to the pin Hole 2 . Pat Uzomene won the Ladies Longest Drive Hole 2. Araolua Popoola won the Guests category with 64 points. He was followed by Elias Abdelahad and Ruxy
Lagos Rolls Out Reforms for Greater Sports Development
The Lagos State Govern- ment through the Lagos State Sports Commis- sion yesterday presents a comprehensive renewed vision for sports to give an enduring all-around sports development that will stand the test of time.
At a media briefing attended by the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende, and the Director General of the Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu, the state government says it wants to combines reforms, structure, and sustainability to drive sports development in the state in order to give the athletes the career to be proud of.
“Our agenda is anchored on three main pillars: Sports Devel- opment Reforms, a Renewed Grassroots Framework, and a Roadmap to Athletes’ Revitali- sation. Together, they represent a future-focused commitment to reposition Lagos as the leading
centre of sporting excellence in Africa,” the Director General said.
Fatodu recalled how “sports in Lagos has long been a source of pride and unity, but to meet global standards, we must embrace reforms that strengthen governance, enforce transparency, and streamline our“Priorsystems. to now, there has never been a central database to identify our athletes and manage their performance.As a result, impostors and athletes past their peak have taken advantage of this gap, using it as a meal ticket.
“To address this, we are introducing an online portal for the enlistment of senior athletes, monitoring, and performance evaluation.
“We are also creating wider opportunities for partnership with corporate bodies, NGOs, social clubs,
and individuals to invest in infrastructure, sponsorship, and athlete development,” Fatodu said while also emphasizing that the reforms are not short-term measures, but are designed for inclusivity, measurable impact, and sustainability to ensure that Lagos sets the pace for sports administration in Africa.
On its plan for renewed grass- roots framework, the Lagos State Government wants to make a strong foundation that prioritize schools as the heartbeat of talent discovery.
“We are working closely with stakeholders, teachers, parents, and community clubs to strengthen participation while expanding access to facilities across all divisions of the State. “Coaches will be better trained and supported, ensuring every child who embraces sports in Lagos sees a clear pathway to suc- cess at national and international levels,” he said.
Eyes on N7.5m Top Prize at Zenith Bank League Final
As the 2025 Zenith Women’s Basketball Premier League Final 8 enters the last day inside the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium in Surulere, all eyes are on the N7.5 million top price money as it climaxes today.
It is going to be a battle of two former winners of the Zenith Bank/NBBF Women Basketball League after record winner of the league, First Bank, defeated defending champions, MFM Women Basketball team, in one of the semifinals of this year’s tournament.
Despite trailing in three of the four quarters, the nine-
Sosa Fruit Drink, a leading brand produced by Rite Foods Limited, has officially pledged its full support to the annual Dolphins Swimming League, stepping in as the main sponsor of the prestigious inter-school tournament.
Huano who finished third with 67 points respectively.
winner
and
J
Speaking at a media parley to announce the partnership, Ruth Mark, Assistant Brand Manager for Sosa, expressed the company’s admiration for the league’s structure and the dedication of its organisers, Dynaspro Sports Promotion.
“What Dynaspro is doing with the Dolphins Swimming League aligns perfectly with our commitment to youth development. At Rite Foods, we are passionate about investing in young people. We’re also deeply invested in education, and we’re impressed by how the league supports the academic sector through sports. Sosa stands for family unity, and we see that reflected in the league’s values. Although we’ve supported the league in previous years, we’re now proud to be on board officially as the main sponsor. We’re
time league winner overcame MFM’s attack to secure their passage to the final and a step closer to winning a record 10 titles.
It was a difficult game for First Bank, their experience however counted in the 4th quarter as they defended their lead while running down the time to win the game 47-45 points.
Earlier in the day, Dolphins also defeated Royal Aces 66-54 points to seal a date with First Bank in the final taking place at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Surulere Lagos.
To get to the final, both First
Bank and Dolphins won all their matches in the group stage, before eliminating their opponent in the finals, and with the two sides unbeaten, it promises to be an interesting final.
The final, taking place on Saturday, September 20, will see MFM taking on Royal Aces in the third-place game at 2 pm, followed immediately by the 4 pm game between First Bank and Dolphins.
The winner of this year’s tournament will take home a whopping prize money of N7.5m while the second place team win N5m for their efforts.
Gets Sosa Fruit Drink is Dolphins Swimming League Official Sponsor
grateful to Dynaspro for this initiative and look forward to a long-term partnership,” she said.
League Coordinator Oluseyi Oyebode welcomed Sosa’s official involvement, describing it as a validation of the league’s mission to discover and nurture swimming talent.
“Sosa’s commitment shows we’re on the right path. Many of the athletes who won gold medals for Lagos State at the last
National Youth Games in Delta are products of this league. Some have even gone on to represent Nigeria internationally. Our goal is to see these young talents win medals for Nigeria at the Olympic Games and World Championships. We’re open to partnerships that benefit the athletes and elevate the league’s quality. We appreciate Rite Foods’ genuine interest and will remain focused on our vision despite any challenges,” Oyebode stated.
Nathaniel ezekiel
L-r :Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende and Director General of Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu during
a press briefing at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, yesterday
Maritime Veterans
B
Raji with a score of 73 points
runner up J B Mohammed also made the podium.
L-r: Assistant Brand Manager, Sosa Fruit Drink, ruth Mark, CeO of Dynaspro Sports promotion, Oluseyi Oyebode, and Corporate Communications Manager, rite Foods Limited, Olukemi Ogunsakin at the press parley to announce Sosa as the official sponsor of the annual Dolphin Swimming League in Lagos…yesterday
OBINNA CHIMA
Nigeria’s Troubled 2025 Budget
Nigeria’s 2025 budget stands at a juncture between ambition and reality. On paper, the fiscal document seeks to address the nation’s pressing needs, from infrastructure to social investments. However, beneath the surface of that optimism lies a troubling set of assumptions and economic headwinds that question its sustainability.
One may wonder what this means, especially at a time when the federal government has consistently boasted about raising more revenue, even as the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) continues to share higher allocations among the three tiers of government, particularly the State governments, with N2.2 trillion shared in August. But it is all money illusion!
In February this year, President Bola Tinubu signed into law the N54.99 trillion 2025 Appropriation Bill. The 2025 budget included projections for Gross Domestic Product growth of 3.68 percent, an inflation rate of 15 percent, a foreign exchange rate of N1,500/$1, crude oil production target of 2.06 million barrels per day with a benchmark price of $75 per barrel.
It is worth noting that the 2024 budget is also running concurrently with that of 2025 and is expected to end by December. The implementation of the capital expenditure component of the 2024 budget is now at 88 percent, and from all indications, the 2025 budget implementation may also extend to 2026.
The component of Nigeria’s annual budget includes: recurrent expenditure, debt service, and capital expenditure. While presently, the recurrent expenditure and debt service obligations are being met to a large extent, the real challenge lies with the capital expenditure component.
The central challenge of the 2025 budget revolves around unrealistic revenue projections, a mounting debt burden, rising interest rates, and a lack of focus on growth-enhancing projects.
Indeed, while the last two years have witnessed notable improvements in revenue mobilisation, particularly non-oil revenue, which has climbed by over 40 percent between January and August
2025, as has been trumpeted by President Tinubu and his supporters, the country’s ballooning debt stocks have continued to overshadow this achievement.
Nigeria’s debt service payment is tied to bond yield, which, in more than one year, has gone up significantly. Debt commitments have spiraled, as interest rates have risen dramatically from an average of 18 percent to about 27.5 percent in 2024 and have remained elevated in 2025. This means every new round of borrowing comes at a higher cost, crowding out funds for essential services. Notably, in 2023, Nigeria’s debt more than doubled following the conversion of the ways and means advances under the late former President Muhammadu Buhari into bonds. While this presented temporary relief, it further heightened the country’s debt obligations.
In the domestic economy, it is also not rosy, due to the surge in borrowing costs as yields on government securities have jumped by nearly one-third, rising from an average of 13 percent in 2023 to about 18 percent since 2024. The devaluation of the naira further compounded the problem, as it has also led to an inflated cost of servicing dollar-denominated loans. As highlighted earlier, the 2025 budget
is pegged on an oil benchmark of $75 per barrel, yet average oil prices have consistently fallen below this threshold.
In fact, Brent crude price eased yesterday, settling at $67 per barrel, as traders remained worried about the United States economic outlook after the Federal Reserve cut interest rates for the first time this year. At a time when global oil markets are volatile due to geopolitical tensions and Donald Trump’s tariff policies, Nigeria’s optimism appears misplaced.
The challenge with the 2025 budget was even brought to the fore on Thursday, when the National Assembly requested the federal government to immediately withdraw all circulars already issued for contract awards under the 2025 fiscal year.
The directive by the National Assembly was jointly adopted by the Senate and THE House Committees on Appropriations after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu’s economic team at the National Assembly.
The move came a day after the House Appropriations Committee first took a similar decision during an interactive session with the government’s fiscal managers on the implementation of the 2024 and 2025 budgets.
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Ogun West), who read the resolution at the joint session said: “Capital component of the 2024 budget will continue till December 31st, 2025. The implementation of the capital component of the 2025 budget will commence as soon as possible, as the Authority to Incur Expenditure (AIE) should be issued within seven days after this session with the economic team.
“Circulars issued by the Ministry of Finance to the MDAs should be withdrawn pending issuance of AIE.”
In plain English, what the above directive from the lawmakers means is that while considering the scarcity of resources, the federal government has chosen to prioritise spending on growthenhancing projects, but members of the National Assembly are more concerned with ensuring that a huge chunk of their constituency projects inserted into the budget are funded.
Recall that civic tech organisation, BudgIT
Nigeria, had revealed that it uncovered over 11,000 projects worth N6.93 trillion inserted by the National Assembly in the 2025 budget, which underscored growing concerns about transparency and fiscal discipline. BudgIT had then described the development as a deeply entrenched culture of exploitation and abuse, which it had alleged was led by top-ranking members of the National Assembly as a means of frittering public funds meant to support national development.
Certainly, the cumulative effect of unrealistic revenue projections and unsustainable debt is the rolling over of budget cycles, where deficits from one year spill over into the next. Rather than functioning as tools of national planning, Nigeria’s budgets appear to have become instruments of debt accumulation.
Rising debt service obligations leave little fiscal space for the government to invest in education, health, infrastructure, and technology, and other projects that positively affect the citizens. This suppresses productivity, limits job creation, and undermines the very growth Nigeria needs to break free from its fiscal quagmire.
Therefore, unless bold reforms are undertaken, Nigeria risks perpetuating a cycle of fragile budgets that serve more as political instruments than genuine roadmaps for development. The government must rationalise expenditure by ensuring that every naira spent contributes directly to productivity and growth. Wasteful spending on constituency projects and non-essential items must give way to investments in human capital, infrastructure, and innovation. Going forward, borrowing should be tied strictly to projects that generate economic returns capable of repaying those debts. Borrowing to finance recurrent expenditure must also be avoided.
Finally, members of the National Assembly must stop seeing the budget as a tool to serve vested interests and porkbarrel spending, but to drive productivity and achieve inclusive growth. Wasteful spending on constituency projects and non-essential items must give way to investments in critical infrastructure and high-impact expenditure.
Tinubu
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori (right), in a warm handshake with the Primate of the African Church, His Eminence, Julius Olayinka Abbe, during the funeral service of late Mrs. Grace Agbolayah, Mother of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Community, Dr. Toyin Agbolayah, at the African Church, Central Missionary Diocese, Warri…yesterday
