SATURDAY 22TH AUGUST 2026

Yari Blames Otedola, Akinfemiwa for Geregu N40bn Bond Default, Assures Investors

Demands ‘fair treatment or reimbursement of funds’ Yusuf: Escrow fund meant for repayment allegedly utilised before ownership change

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Sunday Ehigiator in Lagos

The Chairman of the Board

of Directors of Geregu Power Plc, Senator Abdulaziz Yari,

has attributed the company’s Continued on page 5

Yari

Otedola

Akinfenwa

Kwara APC Crisis Deepens as Mustapha Dumps Party, Picks PDP Ticket...

Page 8

Saturday August 22, 2026 Vol 31. No 11458

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Obi Challenges Presidential Rivals to Face Nigerians, Defend Records...

Page 5

Atiku’s Subsidy Proposal Sparks Pro-poor Storm Ahead of 2027 ADC presidential candidate fires back at Tinubu: You removed subsidy, retained the racket, handed Nigerians the bill

Chuks Okocha in Abuja, Dike Onwuamaeze, Sunday Ehigiator and Peter Uzoho in

Lagos

The debate over petrol subsidy

removal has erupted into a propoor storm of ideas ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with

former Vice President and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate,

Atiku Abubakar defending a targeted subsidy intervention to ease the burden of high fuel and

living costs, while economists and Continued on page 5

ICPC Uncovers Another Fake Agency, Tinubu Orders Arrest, Suspension of 3 Perm Secs Nwabueze for arrest, Danjuma, Gagare, Pheelangwah suspended Fake entity secured office inside SGF complex without presidential approval ICPC links discovery to probe of fictitious PFIPC President directs wider audit of MDAs, internal govt processes

Deji Elumoye in Abuja President Bola Tinubu has ordered the immediate arrest of the promoter of another purported fake government agency and the suspension of three federal Permanent Secretaries following fresh findings by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other

Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

The ICPC Chairman, Dr Musa Adamu Aliyu, disclosed this to journalists in Abuja yesterday after briefing Tinubu on the commission’s latest findings.

Aliyu identified the three Continued on page 5

CHANGE OF BATON AT HEAD OF SERVICE...

L–R: Outgoing Head of Service, Mrs. Didi Esther; Walson Jack; President Bola Tinubu, and Incoming Head of Service, Mr. Abel Olumuyiwa Enitan, after a meeting with the President at the Presidential Villa Abuja… yesterday

PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI

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SATURDAY AUGUST 22, 2026 • T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R

PAGE FIVE

Obi Challenges Presidential Rivals to Face Nigerians, Defend Records Marshals out manifesto for six political zones in Nigeria Pledges to Run campaign devoid of ethnicity, religion

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja and David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has challenged all presidential candidates in the 2027 election to come before Nigerians, defend their records and subject their policies and leadership credentials to public scrutiny, declaring that any aspirant unwilling to engage directly with citizens lacks the capacity to govern the country.

Obi who spoke to journalists

during a world press conference in his home in Onitsha, Anambra State, also gave blow by blow account of how he will develop the country, including his areas of concentration in the various regions of the country.

He stressed that no candidate should hide behind the “high walls of power” or send proxies and surrogates to the hustings while expecting Nigerians to entrust them with the leadership of the country.

The former Anambra State governor said the 2027 election presented Nigerians with a

defining opportunity to assess the records, ideas, character and plans of those seeking to lead the country at a time of grave economic, security and social challenges.

He said he was entering the presidential contest with the firm conviction that “Nigeria can work, and Nigeria must work,” stressing that the country had the people, resources, talent, enterprise and market needed to overcome its current difficulties.

Obi said Nigeria was confronted by several serious challenges, including widespread

poverty, food insecurity, insecurity, unemployment, weak infrastructure, unreliable power supply and the high cost of doing business.

Citing available economic and humanitarian data, he said more than 140 million Nigerians were living at or below the national poverty line, while millions more would require food assistance during the 2026 lean season.

He added that millions of Nigerians remained internally displaced as a result of conflict and insecurity, while millions

ATIKU’S SUBSIDY PROPOSAL SPARKS PRO-POOR STORM AHEAD OF 2027 energy experts reject a return to the old regime but demand that savings from subsidy removal be transparently channelled into healthcare, education, roads, electricity, domestic refining and other measures that directly improve the lives of Nigerians.

The renewed controversy followed Atiku’s declaration that, if elected president in 2027, his administration would restore a form of petrol subsidy aimed at lowering energy costs and easing the burden of high fuel prices on Nigerians.

While the Presidency dismissed

the proposal as evidence of economic ignorance and a desperate political manoeuvre, Atiku has fired back at President Bola Tinubu, accusing his administration of removing petrol subsidy without adequate safeguards for citizens while failing to provide sufficient transparency over the savings generated.

Atiku, through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, argued that his proposal was not a return to the allegedly corrupt and open-ended subsidy regime

of the past, but a targeted, capped, budgeted and independently audited production-support mechanism tied to domestic refining.

At the same time, energy experts who spoke to THISDAY opposed a return to the old subsidy structure, warning that it was fiscally unsustainable and had encouraged corruption and the collapse of Nigeria’s refineries.

They, however, faulted the manner in which the subsidy was removed and urged the federal government to ensure that the savings are transparently

channelled into healthcare, education, electricity, roads, public transportation, social protection and domestic refining.

Dattijo Kabir Muh’d, a legally trained scholar of Islamic law, Northern Nigerian history, and Hausa culture, wrote on Facebook: “Atiku has changed the trajectory of the campaign. He has put the APC on the defensive. Even if he is lying, he has hit the APC hard. He has now successfully gained the attention of the poor.

“With the effects of subsidy removal, the APC needs more than oral defence. They must

of young people entered the labour market every year without adequate opportunities for productive employment.

According to him, leadership must be measured by results and not by rhetoric.

“My successful privatesector experience, studies in institutions of repute on policy and business matters, and my service as Governor of Anambra State have shaped my understanding of public leadership.

“Government must manage resources responsibly, set clear

priorities, and measure the outcomes of its decisions. Public office is not a reward; it is a responsibility to the people,” he said.

Obi said his administration in Anambra State prioritised education, healthcare, infrastructure, fiscal discipline and institutional capacity, while acknowledging that the record was not perfect.

He urged Nigerians to assess the record for themselves and compare it with the experience of his running mate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

ensure that the poor start to see real changes before the elections.

If nothing changes, the poor will never be convinced by oral defence.

“I think this will be hotter than we expected. Atiku is surrounded by geniuses. Bayo is now sleepless, sharing every post that tends to support subsidy removal. It is beginning to get interesting.”

The Centre for Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE) warned that restoring petrol subsidy in whatever form could undermine investment in private refineries and send conflicting signals to

investors.

The Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM) challenged the federal government’s reported N15.8 trillion subsidy-removal savings figure, insisting that the savings exceeded N27 trillion and demanded a detailed account of the funds.

Former Vice President Fires Back at Tinubu Atiku, in a statement issued by Shaibu, strongly rejected Tinubu’s Continued on page 39

ICPC UNCOVERS ANOTHER FAKE AGENCY, TINUBU ORDERS ARREST, SUSPENSION OF 3 PERM SECS Permanent Secretaries ordered suspended by the President as M. S. Danjuma, Engr.

Nadungu Gagare and Richard Pheelangwah.

He said the President also directed the immediate arrest of George Buchi Nwabueze, who allegedly promoted and operated the purported agency.

The newly uncovered entity, according to the ICPC chairman, operated under the name National Brands Development and Made-in-Nigeria Special Project Office.

The latest development followed an investigation by the anti-corruption agency into the proliferation of fictitious government entities and alleged abuse of official structures, with ICPC uncovering an entity that had reportedly secured office accommodation within the

premises of the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) without presidential authorisation.

Aliyu said the discovery was made in the course of the commission’s wider investigation into the fictitious Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), which Tinubu had earlier directed the ICPC to investigate.

He explained that the purported agency had allegedly secured office accommodation within the OSGF premises despite not having presidential approval to operate as a federal government entity.

The ICPC chairman said the commission was now engaging relevant officials within the OSGF to determine how the entity gained access to government premises and

establish the roles played by public officials and other individuals.

“I have briefed Mr. President comprehensively on these new developments. ICPC will continue with its investigation,” Aliyu said.

The ICPC is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the purported agency’s emergence, how it secured government office accommodation and whether any public officials facilitated its operations.

The commission said Nwabueze allegedly operated under several variations of his name, including George Nathan Nwabueze, Honourable George Buchi Nwabueze, Prince George Buchi Nwabueze and George Buchi Nwabueze.

Aliyu said the latest discovery

had further widened the scope of the commission’s investigation into fictitious government entities and the exploitation of official structures by individuals seeking to create the impression of government authority.

He said the development underscored the need for stronger controls and greater scrutiny of government institutions and administrative processes.

The ICPC chairman commended Tinubu for directing a wider policy audit of federal ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) and internal government processes, describing the initiative as a proactive measure to strengthen governance.

“President Bola Tinubu must be commended for the proactive

step of directing the policy audit of MDAs and internal government processes towards strengthening government governance system,” he said.

The latest discovery came barely weeks after the fictitious PFIPC, which had reportedly operated while presenting itself as a legitimate government institution, was exposed.

Following that discovery, Tinubu had directed the ICPC to investigate the individuals behind the purported agency and determine whether public officials had facilitated its activities.

The investigation subsequently uncovered the National Brands Development and Made-in-Nigeria Special Project Office, prompting the latest presidential directives.

The ICPC probe is expected to

focus not only on the individuals behind the purported agency but also on the institutional weaknesses that allowed an unauthorised entity to gain access to federal government premises.

The commission is also expected to determine whether the suspended Permanent Secretaries breached administrative procedures or played any role in facilitating the operation of the purported agency.

The development has intensified scrutiny of the processes governing the creation, recognition and operation of government agencies, as the Federal Government moves to identify and shut down fictitious entities operating within or around the public service.

YARI BLAMES OTEDOLA, AKINFEMIWA FOR GEREGU N40BN BOND DEFAULT, ASSURES INVESTORS N40 billion bond default to its former majority owner and Chairman, Femi Otedola, and former Chief Executive Officer, Akin Akinfemiwa, while assuring investors that the outstanding issues were being addressed.

This comes as the Managing Partner at Segun Suleiman & Co., Faruk Yusuf, who spoke during an interview on ARISE News Channel, alleged that the former owners of Geregu Power, Amperion Power, misled the company’s new owners, MA'AM Energy Limited, over funds meant to secure its bond obligations, claiming that the money was held in an escrow account when it had allegedly already been utilised.

The allegations had heightened

concerns over Geregu’s ability to meet its obligations to bond investors following the company’s default on a N40 billion bond obligation, putting its financial position and corporate governance under increased scrutiny.

On December 29, 2025, Otedola, the majority shareholder, sold his interest in Geregu Power to MA’AM Energy Limited for about $750 million, resulting in a change in its controlling ownership and a new board led by Yari.

But Yari, yesterday, said although the bond in question was issued and the underlying arrangements made under the tenure of the former owners and management, he decided to personally intervene to provide

funds required to settle the immediate outstanding obligation.

THISDAY learnt that the intervention was in the sum of N6 billion.

In a statement he personally signed, Yari stressed that the move should not be interpreted as an admission of personal liability or an indication that the current board or management was responsible for the problem.

“I have also been in ongoing discussions with the former owners and management of the company, under whose tenure the bond in question was issued and the underlying arrangements were made. I am encouraged to report that they have indicated their willingness to continue engaging toward a

lasting and amicable solution,” he stated.

“This intervention addresses the immediate concern facing bondholders. It does not close the underlying matter, and it does not absolve the former owners of a disappointing legacy,” the former Zamfara State governor noted.

Yari admitted that the situation had generated legitimate concerns among bondholders, shareholders and the wider market, noting that Geregu's reputation for reliability and sound governance made it imperative to address the matter decisively.

According to him, his decision to personally provide the funds was driven by the need to protect the company’s

reputation and restore confidence among investors, rather than an acceptance of responsibility for the obligation.

“I want to be precise about what this means and what it does not mean. This is not an admission that the obligation is personally mine, nor is it a judgment that the current board or management created this problem. It is a decision made in the interest of the institution I am privileged to chair,” he added.

He pointed out that he had been closely engaged with the board, management, financial and legal advisers and other relevant parties since the matter emerged, in an effort to establish how the obligation arose and determine the appropriate path towards its

resolution.

According to him, the immediate funding would protect bondholders from further uncertainty while discussions continued with the former owners and management on the underlying liability.

He stated that the former owners and management had committed to working in good faith towards a full and fair accounting of how the obligation arose and how it should be treated and resolved between the parties.

“Our objective, ultimately, is a final, mutually acceptable resolution: fair treatment or reimbursement of the funds I Continued on page 39

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Uzodimma: Landmark procedure will make advanced healthcare more accessible, affordable

Imo State has recorded a major Ekwueme, a UK-based consultant endure prolonged incontinence or will be in the patients treated, Insurance Scheme to make was not solely about acquiring a $5 billion derivatives attention from market at N1,380.9/$ at the inflows, despite mounting Nume Ekeghe with loss oftime. sexual function following drawn the skills transferred, the closing advanced medical treatment sophisticated equipment, but also breakthrough inagency healthcare tranche roboticof and laparoscopic surgeon press United Arab Emirates' The $5 billion facility, participants because the of lives the official marketandyesterday, from investors chasing reports surgery. specialists developed, more affordable accessible. pressure about developing the expertise delivery with the successful deal andwith an indigene of Imo State. prostate largest lender, pressing ahead approved National stupendous limited disclosure compared with N1,380.1/$ Governorby theUzodimma, improved,public and thebillion confidence Uzodimma had,Mr. ahead of the dollar-denominated required to operate and assets, sustain “In his infertile rambling, Tenebe state Governor, Godwin as N9 for the completion of in itsBenin first City robotic- has Addressing journalists after the captured. been swindled

by Obaseki-led Adibe emenyonu made wild and completely off-theObaseki across all sectors of the fathom projects which only "Information at the behest of the with a transaction that has been Assembly earlier this year, is surrounding its terms.

The the previous day, while holding falling international oil prices Nigeria has accessed the first who witnessed the landmark that our people build in our local procedure, described the planned the technology locally. with an unassailassisted surgery, making it administration operation, Ekwueme described mark suggesting that state over theafederal past seven years.” isand in the imagination of online of1,700 the Edo State of existed humongous debt of members scrutinized for being opaque. part of the federal government's International Monetary Fund firm atthat N1,390/$ on the parallel acomments pullback in the domestic tranche of proposed $5be able, procedure, described it House as- aaimed major healthcare system,” Uzodimma surgery as major healthcare “Our plancent has never been to span over kilometres The minister reiterated that the the government about 85 per complete projects the first sucha procedure thereform procedure as aprofile complete bold agenda, which included Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja to and Edo State is owing $35 Ahoada billion.

“Tenebe hasmore beenprojects on a frenzy the governor, it was discovered Assembly is to the effect that they Edo State chapter of the All ProN135 billion and $35.6 billion, at unlocking economic activity and ongoing reforms by the Tinubu is concentrating in the handled by Rock Result along “The nation plan to diversify external (IMF) and Fitch recently market for the third consecutive equities market. billion derivatives financing steprecalled towards providing residents said. breakthrough and a product acquire sophisticated medical the removalWest of fuelAfrican subsidies and the were Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt performed in the region east of success, stressing that roboticifofthat was what was written looking for lies to oftell since Even the facility was notjust N9 South from their holiday gressives Congressin(APC), yesterday, the governor is unyielding and Nigeria.

Thesources Ambassador knows that stability tothat thewere world.

Ieven see your Nigeria's taxinvestments system, making Nigeria's readiness to build in on the- bridging end of the tunnel."You find Deji Abuja regional divides. administration not about than northern areas nation.

East West is can't atknown per unification of foreign exchange rates drew about $1.5 billion the financing reduce cautioned while derivativeweek.

The naira hasRoad come under with quality andandaffordable Thebut governor disclosed that the he of assumed strategic by hisit section equipment and leave it60 idle. arrangement with the United theElumoye Niger. Godwin assisted surgery offered significant for him, he should have office astheActing a figure wrapped in or leave

by Qatar the Speaker on the billion urged Governor Obaseki to unstoppable in his characteristic that I take very seriously. efforts in human development, easier for foreign investors to do momentum generated by his state a better partner than Nigeria.

“The aim is not just connectivity, economic arithmetic, but about Responding to questions from cent completion, adding that RCC, two of the most significant policy shifts Minister of Information and National that the figure is wrong and can't Chairman.

Rather than focus secrecy as much as N17.5 billion request of the state governor for last couple of weeks from a borrowing costs.

Structured as based financing can improve Analysts attributed pressure in recent sessions as specialised healthcare within centre operates under a Publicadministration to transform Equipment must be matched Arab Emirates' largest lender, The landmark operation was design advantages, in the stop securing loans, noting that the leave Edo State inhistory. ruin, but economic opportunity,” he said. creating aand new foundation forLike inclusive who his inspection Setraco have follow shown commitment in Weimmediate are willing to go further peace prosperity. business in observed the country. visit toto Qatar inparticularly 2024, pledging to the I always global issues President Bola Tinubu yesterday in Nigeria’s recent economic Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has said by be true. on reawakening his completely which the opposition in you, the journalists approval ofFirst thein to N9 billion loan recently approved asking for a facility of N17.5 total return swap transaction a Total Return Swap with liquidity, such arrangements the resilience to strong investors reposition ahead of the the state.

Private Partnership (PPP), with medical care in the state. with competence, and technology according to a Bloomberg carried out yesterday at the Imo treatment of localised prostate “Nigeria is really retracing its steps. growth, the Zarama section of theefforts Westto their our bilateral relations." we areaccountability, sandwiched between the of all difficult bilateraldecisions agreements "We are making and your have to welcomed new initiatives by implement “These were that said thethe country was on Assembly the path towards "Injobs. reality,efforts. our debtYou stock is not comatose party, which isEast unable rejected andand orsustainable refused facility which according to house by House of was few days ago, which was He said the facility would the sector providing the Road He said the operation was dollar-denominated must beand matched with training,” with First Abu Dhabi Dhabi proceeds are should be macroeconomic fundamentals, fundraising report, marking first billion ItAbu isThe becoming anBank, important nation once development. rehabilitation Bayelsa State, Addressing the journalists, Umahi Robotics and Oncology Centre cancer. said the Qatari challenge terrorism and helping between the countries. reform our tax in system.

Going more inin Nigeria toare help fight had to They causedBank some them Qatari investors tothe explore economic recovery, restating federal ado secret fact, we ‘under to provide constructive criticisms to beprivate partofof the transparently approval. isPresident said to be N9 billion needless and will plunge the state said tobe bemade.

N9two billion." again the comity nations.

In another development, who Umahi expressed satisfaction withstill thean said, havein just inspected thewould work serve not only as a oftreatment majority the funding, a model ledexperiences by Ekwueme alongside he "We said.

PJSC, according to people earmarked for refinancing debt managed to minimise fiscal healthy external by Dangote Refinery and but an taking reported drawdown under government’s commitment to restoring government had demonstrated our neighbours.

We areUmahi conscious He directed the Minister of but by ofreserves the past and poverty the humanitarian opportunities in the agricultural (IROC), located within the Imo turbulence, According toisaircraft him, the borrowed’.

Emperor Tenebe expected of a viable opposition, But in of its reaction, the Edo asamong event unfolded, after into financial distress.

Tenebe, saidlike"It important The respect that Nigeria used to have disclosed this yesterday while inspecting ongoing projects across Rivers, Delta of Rock Result where we have multiple off, we are now reaching stability.

The investors’ confidence and deepening maturity and foresight in working of who is our friend and those Budget and Economic Planning, the need to depart from old area.

You have done well have known this if he understood he has resorted to spreading State Government stated that sector and assured that Nigeria the mammoth request by the centre but also as a platform for he said would help guarantee international team of medical Uzodimma explained that familiar with the transaction, and supporting infrastructure and debt risks. on a steadily upward trajectory Petrochemicals, prompting ain aSpecialist facility that has attracted Hospital Complex, But in a swift reaction, the totechnology state, that itenables is nowsurgeons in publicto is now gradually returning. Investors the ongoing construction of federal and Bayelsa. concrete culvertsaofover the East West World Bank has noted our returnthe to opposition democratic the economics governance, fiscal in Europe a have desperate Edo APC “obviously in the House as toof the for global peace and deserves helping us towas ameliorate the misinformation Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu; ways, our reforms been developing knowledge-based remains open to structure strategic Edo State values.

Government said it and political space that early detection and prevention the sustainability and quality specialists from and robotic-assisted techniques who asked not to be identified financing.

Meanwhile, the naira has at $51.2 billion and sustained rotation of capital from naira scrutiny over its Umuguma, Owerri, according remove cancerous tissues with have more confidence country,” roads in by Rivers, Bayelsa and Delta He said that the tough Bodo-Bonny Road Road failure in between Rivers and growth levels not seenState in over a the This was as his to counterpart, responsibility and debt-to-GDP ratio. curry cheap popularity. the achievements of attempt rationale for routine ain our facility as pained commendation. problems."

Minister of of Information and hard.

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We are about Nigeria?", the President The President gave the examinations.

He urged residents to The governor stressed that invasiveness, reduced blood loss tovital speak to the media."

Bloomberg reported that Press Secretary/Special Adviser functions, urinary of your efforts to bring peace and ongoing reforms to streamline gradually seeing the light at the explained.

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Tenebe where he made baseless of the budget by theofexecutive. reported drawdown from The procedure was performed surgery cancer, especially a Total Return Swap (TRS) to ensure the timely execution of Qatar, Dr. Mohammed bin and economicthat renewal. reaffirmed this yesterday in Itconsolidation andIdris spurious allegations on the isthese mostagreements. disheartening the of Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi byinterview a team ofFirst Nigerian and prostate cancer, phenomenal,” Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Rescue workers from around the trapped under rubble before the buildings. Heavy machinery reported severe shortages of transaction with Dhabi Idris explained thatisfunds recovered an with Forbes Africa to Edo fiscal management ofAbu our dear State Government now is world yesterday intensified efforts was critical "golden window" arrivedclear in some thewhat hardest-hit essential supplies, years told72-hour that he would not board the would the airofon really every passenger hassaying a right, yourof Eze He said, "To all the members of Chinedu Qatar's Minister of State for international medical specialists Ekwueme said, adding that Finance were unsuccessful.

Bank PJSC, people familiar requesting from the fuelfor subsidy removal were mark the Democracy Day celebration state by the citing Governor Godwin a facility of N17.5 to locate survivors trapped beneath for finding survivors begins to close, areas nearly two days after the underfunding had left the country' flight because boarding had closed. happened, since the Senator and the right is limited to what is within thes the delegation, Idirectly want tointo asent bigto Foreign Affairs, Dr. Al-Khulaifi, being reinvested critical Obaseki-led government.” and 26 years ofrequested democratic with corollary ofsay project ledunbroken by Professor Kingsley billion patients should not have Calls andno text messages with the deal who lid Operators Minerals formalisation of artisanal miners also want tobegin be available part of the move d'Affairs, US Embassy, InBBC another development, the airline have made their own ICAO (International Civil Aviation Airline ofDevelopment, Nigeria (AON) Charge collapsed buildings in Venezuela the reported. disaster to clearing massive healthcare system ill-prepared for a thank you for coming to Nigeria. conveyed Amir's strong interest in Addressing a press conference attached there to the said facility infrastructure projects including two rule in Nigeria. to the Minister ofGod Financewhat and Dr. anonymity because they were Dele hasthe described into cooperatives amongst others. to reduce global emissions and put Organisation) Greene, in his include office on Minister of Aviation and Aerospace videos that covered the incident. regulation and the that byAlake, disrupting operations David We are expanding bilateral yesterday, Tenebe had cooperation, said state and alsograteful that thetocorridors facilityfor is not after two powerful earthquakes The worst-hit areas the piles of debris. disaster of such magnitude. expansive highway that will said He defended President Bolathe Tinubu’s United Nigeria’s "Theindustry. mining sector mining sector onsuspicious the global aviation Coordinating of the Alake lauded the United notalready authorised to speak publicly.

Development, Keyamo, has our Okonkwo stated operators’ is noprovides amount reacting toFestus Omo-Agege’s He said thethe lawyer and There former deputy ofOmon-Julius Air Peace States when itasdenied him Thursday, Onabu in Asaba was suffering a debt contained as loanMinister to be in the we have experienced astaken partners announcing that aunder high-level killed more than 900 and States’ capital, Caracas, the coastal state Among those awaiting Thedisappointment, tragedy has also reignited ally andpeople strategic veritable avenue for map.

Wemight have critical minerals commitment to fostering ordered that a probe should be viewpoint on the anxiously incident and said ofapresident any if atincreased all, from boarding for the Lagos-Abuja flight, Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, According to Bloomberg, claims at a media briefing claims be a ploy by of the Senate, should profile of N135 billion and $35.6 2024 fiscal budget recently in progress.

I am also just glad that the longstanding Qatari business delegation will the left thousands injured in State one ofand the cooperation of La Guaira neighbouring rescue efforts isCentre Natacha Diaz, criticism of Nigeria Venezuela's fragile forinthe nation’s mining trade between andinvolved the United that are in commercial demand with Nigeria in diverse that conducted on theand incident. passengers have their2, rights but any airline that gives you any right former governor ofurged Edo billion.

AQatar cursory perusal are under scrutiny and processing," Penta M &Amp; Tambuwal one of them was also in Kuni Tyessi Abuja wereofnot responded toofasthe of partner "Nigeria has accessed first passed. in Asaba. the ninth Senate's deputy have known better than Amir greatly remembers Delta State has residents visit Nigeria in the the coming sector development.

States, especially in thebeen area of value globally,"Alake said. of the economy, stating country' sSenator deadliestrepresenting natural disasters communities, where hundreds whoseSokoto, two daughters are believed emergency response system, with Spokesman of AON and that theof airline operations areState. guided by for self-help.

We have talking Edo sectors He said, a monumen- entire budgetdiscussed does not reveal where Oloyede said.

LGA, Sokoto impersonation. the issues during my currently weeks to "While exploreit isopportunities He said the 2027 senatorial president to attract public issuing public statements and Nigerians to Oshiohole, disregard Speaking receiving itChairman addition, which implies processing The minister partner- about underscores significance of the ofthe Unitedshowed Nigeria and itawelcomed isshopping the responsibility behaviour.

So,towhat District, Adams tal disaster that Edo State patrimony projectyear. for the facility is ever North inand more than awhile century. buildings were reduced tobetween piles of regulations trapped inside residents urging authorities allow “Thebilateral 2025 UTME the Oloyede added that 80 complex suspects Theunruly registrar also said due to The Joint Admissions and smooth visit inDeji agriculture, security, and the of extracted minerals andthat setting up ship with the US onand investments in you relations candidate of the National sympathy some raising alarm about alleged the allegations by former andlast what decisions we want to violated Elumoyefood in Abuja Airlines, Obiora Okonkwo, in a press of airlines and passengers to abide saw was a typical case of unruly aviation regulation.

According Board to (JAMB) Venezuelan concrete and twisted steel. where they worked.

Holding more civilian volunteers to participate prevalence of some particular types of the were being interrogated bytheir the factories substandard performance, four centres Matriculation has both "Let me commend the brotherly other critical sectors. here.

We would also require mining value chain, expanding countries. in Lagos yesterday(NDC) called byrelevance those regulations. behaviour.

It ishis notlife acceptable.

Democratic Congress at ainvolvement time Governor threats to when Air the Senator Oshiomhole who had conference Deputy Senate President, take, but the take home is that officially infractions, suggests systemic police fortechnology their in the had been delisted and blacklisted for announced release of on authorities, at Abuja leastthe 920 people ofwhich grief unfolded acrossI access photograph, the distraught mother in rescue operations as thousands financing from multilateral institutions to infull extracting “IScenes you for your visit.

President Tinubu emphasised relations between Qatar and 6:30a.m. thethank Federal Airports Authority “AON had had the brief of Peace is a respected airline.

No matter Lagosflight on Air for Delta Central was merely Oborevwori was daily hugging Nigeria Police and the DSS Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, they should be calm." and improving the lives of the The All Progressives Fidelis David in Akure Congress Hope” vulnerabilities or gaps in registration examination malpractices and most technical deficiencies.

He listed the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation for our local operators.

We are providand processing minerals and met the US Assistant Secretary of have been confirmed dead, while affected communities as desperate said they were "all I have." remain displaced. ofseeking Nigeria (FAAN) to bring out face the Air Peace on this for incident.

And as what you thinkto about it, they carry last Wednesday was denied the people Ondo State. relevance in Geoffrey the the headlines many right are there incident the that state government was State Though Oyebamiji did not Peace (APC) candidate in the August 15, among Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan theof youthful population.

“Wethe are establishing, this ing incentives for investments like mining areas. forvideo Energy Resources, and examination administration or/ asecuring of them would beas prosecuted. centres Adventure Associate, Behind Examination (UTME) results.

CCTV of the incident, saying matter of fact, much as we 40 to 50as: percent of all the domestic boarding when he arrived atsustained 6:05a.m., more than 3,300 others families waited near collapsed Another resident, Andreina Meanwhile, international “Today, we take yet another bold The Governor of Ondo State, tax waivers for mining equipment, Throwing light on reforms Pyatt, on the sidelines of the Mines of the towering performance reasons, particularly the discovery,” he said. linked to an alleged plot to He said the government is year, 37,000 Citizens’ Brigade and monitoring.

“The Board has identified the Sheshe Supermarket, Kano, Saadatu disclose specific issues Following poor performance 2026 governorship poll ininOsun step the numerous challenges Olawale Ajimotokan that it is the video from FAAN that appreciate and understand that passengers in Nigeria.

25 minutes to departure time and injuries afterSchool. the twin earthquakes, structures, hoping forin news of embarked Valerio, appealed forthe help to rescue assistance hasrepatriation pouring into in our ongoing commitment to inof Lucky Aiyedatiwa, hasNational said his worried of full ofZaria. profits upon by federal govThe General, Money London that about 72 per cent Primary each and newconference trends observed were presence of extraneous fingers in policy Rimi College ofbegun Education, candidates inhim. the1,000 2025inUTME, of“The Governor Oborevwori. inauguration of 12 duplexes Aniagwu queried, "If assassinate being examined byour the APC State,Director Asiwaju Bola Oyebamiji, confronting theof country, Abuja improving the youthful welfare people, administration will continue to of measuring magnitudes 7.2 and missing loved ones.

Many survivors her one-and-a-half-year-old son, the country.

Rescue teams from to home countries amongst others," ernment, the minister highlighted past year, and we had a fruitful Orientation Agency (NOA), the nation’s population state, including FCT, Abuja.

These in the Registration and Examination the registration details of some of On how to check the UTME results, telecommunications and digital Specifically, Aniagwu said with internal roads and new anybody is after him, he The state Commissioner for or state whether the party was yesterday met with his party's ensuring social inclusion and fulfilling prioritiseLanre socialIssa-Onilu, inclusion has and urging them to intensify 7.5, struck barely a minute apart engagement. emphasised.

Community Development I didwere analyse our have also toallin sleep Santiago, remains trapped Alake Switzerland and Mexicothe and, have Mallam becomeofforeigners through going tosaid be processes andbeen they mainly the revised these This raises concerns Oloyede said:police "To check 2025 solutions company, Globacom, Omo-Agege wasforced overwhelmed carscandidates. for who 12(CDA) state permanent knows the WorksBrigade (Ruralare and Riverine contemplating a legal challenge the promise Hope forto Citizens’ national leader, President Bola have economic empowerment In his remarks, thestation; US Ambasguidelines issues, andcategories: fundamentally, we just Agreement prayers for Renewed President Bola The federal announced plansgovernment toof vulnerable launch on Wednesday night.

The second outdoors after their homes were alongside other family members joined local emergency responders, the influence of cartoons and like Boys’ Scout and Girls’ Guild following Identity Fraud, regarding potential strategies for UTME results, candidates should send its Examination Preparatory Service Tinubu for the support given to the all,” he declared.

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja citizens through strategic partnerships and unsettled by the level of Secretaries, on the very day he knows the DSS office to sador commended the renewed geared towards reducing friction in want to diversify our economy Roads) and Public Information, the outcome, he, however, said its Tinubu at the State House, Abuja.

Tinubu andand his administration. has asserted its unwavering awith 37,000 Citizens’ Brigade in movies which are foreign in of theEnumah olden days. and Biometric Fraud of Combined impersonation. by text message “UTMERESULT” as was specifically designed to help from quake is believed to be the strongest destroyed or declared unsafe. beneath the rubble. while the United States military is A statement posted on the anti-graft's prosecution to proceed with the trial described the May 27, 2025 bail application Alex in Abuja According to Aiyedatiwa, a total the federal government. interest of Nigeria in solid minerals, commission the Humanitarian host communities; on-going plans oil.

Not just for our own the Governor’s performance he raised the alarm. go and report.

Why do you Mr. Charles Aniagwu, made position would be communicated Speaking with journalists primary schools across countryto . contents, He255 also expressed optimism resolve togovernment securing freedom values and across cultures.

“Across the in world, Nigerians Thumbprint of Candidate,” he lDoctors of 3,656 candidates fall hearing withinzone this one to 55019 or 66019has using the excel Computer-Based social media handle X, noted that thesaid. duo and prayed for accelerated of ofstressing theword defendants as incompetent, given of 16, beneficiaries all 18 students to hit the South American nation In La Guaira, residents described in the disaster participating in humanitarian rescue that the sector huge Also, Aiyedatiwa hasthe forwarded for new security architecture to economic survival but also to Affairs Ministry.

The federal yesterday since assuming office.

“Omo-Agege, being issue statements?” theknown call yesterday, while be to the revealed public after exercise. after the closed-door meeting, He made theHouse disclosure whilea Local Other he trends said, were category.

Consequently, the results ofa that same they had used Issa-Onilu said as athe way out are beFinancial the smartest examinations. were arraigned onglobal a six-count case. thephone defendants neither underto that ongoing security The Economic Crimes for Nigerians held captive potentials tonumber rivalwere the contribution Areas in the state secure natural efforts in tuneinfractions, with for the the Ondo State of Assembly HeGovernment that Nigeria said there arejournalists ongoing discussion since 1900. toand widespread devastation ascharge, rescue warned that resources; hospitals were operations despite longstanding speaking with in Ibadan Oyebamiji emphasised that Oyebamiji popularly known as bordering on money laundering to the Responding, the defence counsel, J.J. arrest, nor inthe detention, nor have appeared impersonators at the point of the candidates have been withheld.” register during the registration process. of the malaise, NOA would soon people on earth.

This is a positive Commission (EFCC), yesterday, arraigned Speaking at a press briefing in of oil to nation's economy. to generate big geo-data; the reduction in global warming.

We will receive N75, 000 each, disbursed list of 12 nominees for the position of operations and coordinated byhow bandits. has concluded plans to host on 15,000 Nigerians stranded Emergency workers are racing teams, police officers and military struggling to cope with the influx tensions between Washington during a working visit topresently Oyo launch of $12 with million.

SAN, on on underage his part reminded the before court,will being the grounds the Managing Director/Chief Executive registration the active involvement Usman, Speaking candidates, Resultthe printing be available later." aleaders Mobile App containing but someof people Abuja yesterday, Registrar JAMB, tune whatever decisions taken monthly installments of N25, 000 development AMBO, saidtoinhis party isExecutive commissioners the State interventions would yield global to discuss issues Secretary the Government in Cameroon, Niger, Chad and in against time to rescue those feared personnel searched damaged of casualties. personnel andMeanwhile, Caracas.

State.

The defendants according to the court of subsistingMedical bail following applications of provided by thereacting Administration of Officer of SunTrust Bank Ltd, Halima for three months, directly through Council for confirmation. of few CBT centres, double registration, he explained that the to the poor indigenous cartoons through mischievously tend to portray Prof.

Ishaq Oloyede, revealed that the from the review, peace must reviewing the outcome of the migration and how it affects other parts of the worldSenator would of positive results in the fight Buba ofHe the Federation, statement, however,ofpleaded defendants, May 27, 2025 and Criminal Justice of Act,students (ACJA) that should the bank's Executive Director/ saidgovernor 1,000 Citizens’ Brigade their debit cards.

The made thisits which and attempted substitution self by the Ministry of dated Education’s decision performance in the 2025 Board withheld the results 39,834 local contents, national us inand negative light.

Butof this is EFCC's remain paramount, describing election and will soon make countries under the membership be returned to Nigeria safety.

The toManaging a that three-day workshop for He the that the Nume Ekeghe against kidnapping andinjected other George Akume, gave the values guilty” all the chargesDirector/ when they prayed the acourt should uphold aexplained bail application but rather Chief Compliance Officer, He said theculture total amount commitment during the official would be Commissioner, set up in each of the candidates. toat enforce minimum age the of precipitate UTME, company explained that candidates outare of the over 1.9Innocent million “not and would be who we as a people. of the onas not Federal National government politics000, next line ofthe action known after into Chief Executive Officer, NDIC, senior management and NDIC was leveraging read to them following which the lead applications and admit thegranted defendants applied for bail from the comfort ofBank their Mbagwu, before Justice Emeka Nwite criminal activities. assurance yesterday when theEuro-African scheme isand N1,Dialogue 219,125, flag-off ceremony ofFederal the second phase 36 states and Capital Oloyede added that 244 candidates 16, an exception was for the Glo Examination Preparatory applicants that sat for the exam. promoted.

“To change the negative narMigration and Development.

Commission for Refugees, Migrants ultimately being about thesupport welfare completing assessment. counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, bail. ortrains officesstudents when noronaction has of The the Federal High Court, Abuja for economic of thehosted Conditional Cash national Transfer Mr.caught Thompson Oludare, said to“exceptionally executive staff of theunderage NDIC, homes Verification Numbers (BVNs), Managing Director/Chief Tand erritory (FCT) toits promote "Our direct mission he members of providing were engaging in “WhatsApp gifted” Service practical According thesetting JAMB boss, of prosecution According to him, "These vari- ratives, we to are upout the Popularly known asontheearth, Rabat Internally Displaced Persons SAN, announced theto readiness of the The prosecution counsel in his response, been taken againstinthem. alleged fraud. of the people. to thousands of households. disbursement to beneficiaries in Ondo Oyebamiji, who lost the election values as of old, stating that the the corporation was still paying organised in collaboration in collaboration with the Executive Officer, Nigeria runs,” subscribing rogue groups students. ways to excel Computer-Based the figure 96 candidates' results were our goal on earth is to ous policies are geared towards Citizens’ Brigade to produce the Federation of Muslim Process, the meeting would (NCFRMI), Alhaji Tijani Ahmed, The governor recalled thatthe into young State, held atthe theGovernor Akure South Local “The most important thing isbe to incumbent Ademola essence ofthis Brigade was toin changing SAN, that bordering on terrorism murder. enumah in Abuja promising leaked questions.

The registrar said thatand ofofthe 41,027 Fagbemi, examinations such assubmitted JointSettlement Admissions withheld over exam malpractices, a Alex eligible depositors of the 46 with the Bureau Public Nigeria Inter-Bank Deposit Insurance Corporation the narratives and Nigerians and create promote, to preserve, and Women's Associations the first thematic dialogue under disclosed at a media briefing November 2024, a totalwith of 8,637 debit Government Secretariat yesterday. charge having Board been filed by Although, they pleaded not the revive and rebuild theParty, national every election peaceful Adeleke of Accord He saidwhose their results had also were been underage candidates who registered, and Matriculation (JAMB), decrease from 123Mr. into therebuild previous year. impression that the outside models the MFBs licences Procurement (BPP).

System (NIBSS), to identify (NDIC), Thompson torunprolong life. not to positive Nigeria’s chairmanship, which Nigeria (FOMWAN), led wrong in Abuja. cards were distributed toIt's beneficiaries, At the event, Governor Aiyedatiwa Justice Bolaji Olajuwon of a Fed- guilty the Inspector General of Police, was to all the charges, the judge the values and create positive models withheld to set a stern example. only 467 met the high-performance Junior and Senior West African Oloyede said the Board remained mind.

It is important for us that explained that the party had world is having about the country . national values." conveyed government' s approval stakeholder participation in health federal government’s Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja revoked by the CBN on July He said, “As we speak, affected depositors and locate Oludare, has assured depositors is being co-chaired by Nigeria Ahmed revealed that no amounting to N647,775,000, making launched the distribution of the by its National Amirah, Dr. shorten it. The government resolute in its commitment to eralInHigh Court inhe Abuja, yesterday, incompetent and askedexaminations the court to however, ordered that they some cases, said,Oversight the entire and criteria, with onedefendant. disqualified duebe to and Examination Council Nigerians haveofatoSpain, know that Wale not reached on the High Court which had dismissed other unreliable witness testimonies, Igbintade banks (MFBs) dismissed at1,the 5th the Ministerial sector commitment to1,3,4,5,6, strengthening and the Kingdom and fewer thanHope sixa final million people current phase significant Renewed Debitdecision Cards to 2026. weonegovernance. have paying their alternative accounts in of microfinance application bycentres two remanded strike out counts and 7 of iswe doing everything to secure at malpractice. thestarted Kuje Correctional Sumaye Fadimatu Hamza. syndicates colluded with CBT examination as well as IELTS. eliminating any form of examination his no-case and quashed At lower court, Justice Raliatu those of PW9, PW10, government isof about people, and The ofon the social safety net. thousands of beneficiaries aseffort part expansion the election, urging itsnomembers isthe focusing youth, education were displaced inthat Nigeria, while Committee (MOC) held in Abuja Center, Asthedepositors. ofpending efforts to reinforce health sector governance, federal government has Rivers Statesubmission, indigenes challenging the charge or strike strike outand the the hearing of including Oludare said the payment the That's the other banks for direct payment. whose licences were revoked release all who are He vowed to register usingcharge multiple fingerprints.

He bail said that the Board remained Theas 2025 UTME resultsP59–P61. released malpractice, addingLagos that 1,957,000 the 12-count filed against Adebiyi had ruled that the well as Exhibits The of Appeal, Division, the “We understand the ofand the federal and innovation. thousands ofgovernment’s refugees areNational living jurisdiction of the court to try entire suit for been their application fixed for PW11, it's about people, andeconomic it's about supporters tofacilitate remain calm yesterday, said the state financing compliance, deepening accountability across approved N32,880,443,906.25 process was ongoing and that guaranteed ofEFCC their According toincompetent. him, the byCourt the Central Bank ofto Nigeria captured," he said. will be spared to the challenges regard, has approved your indicated that Governor Seyi that Kemi Olaitan inProgramme Ibadan According tothat him, ascommittee aFinancial result of had committed toas providing the necessary byThe JAMB on May 5 had elicited candidates were verified sit for him by thealleged Economic and established aportion prima facie case Court of Appeal agreed, has discharged and acquitted a them that many of our people Social Investment (NSIP), over complicity in the Responding, Police lawyer, Mr. February 2, well as the motion The meeting, which holds May elsewhere across the world. people, and because it's about while the review continues. has so far disbursed a total of the Committee directed the implementing institutions, under the second quarter, 2026 the corporation could not yet deposits.

It's an ongoing approach was designed (CBN) that they remain suspension as the Onido of Ido in Makinde approved the suspension this, 3,656Commission “extraneous support for persons with disabilities widespread concerns morenot than Crimes (EFCC). some of the counts and ordered holding that the appellant was ato He lauded FOMWAN for the examDirector while 71,705 were of absent. former General the burning safe return ofcollaboration captives, while and this programme is a clear implemented in with face ofcandidates the Riverswith State House of on Simon Lough, SAN,asurged the of the 1st and 2nd defendants 13th toof 14th, is2024. expected to the “We have 15,000 Nigerians who people, it is2025, important that we HeOyo said, “For now, thethrough APC The State Government, yes-is demonstration area of authority of Ido Local Assembly on 1ststeadfast February, N290 billion under the initiative.

MOC Secretariat to issue formal improving coordination among BHCPF disbursement memo provide a final figure for the process, and it is difficult to make the process seamless The EFCC accused Akpobolokemi and his co-defendant member of the VIMSAS Committee; protected under the country’s Nigerian Maritime Administration fingerprints” have had their results aspiring to pursue tertiary education.

1.5 million out of 1.9 million candidates According to him, 2,157 candidates that the government the Ondo State Government complex in Port Harcourt, court to dismiss the application challenging the jurisdiction of its contributions reaffirming the government's discussions that would want to return the to theGbolagade country terday, suspended Oba Area ofrejections Oyo State."

Thewith letter read ingovernor part, "I wish to Government to be peaceful and I want stillNational examining books, and by feature Akpobolokemi of conspiracy, open their noteliminate a signatory to any of the and Safetyinsurance Agency (NIMASA), TheState. meeting alsoCBT approved communication all2025 36 the states toas and stakeholders, andthe accelerating you,” the added. withheld, and some centresas to He said that forto the UTME, whose results released scored todeposit sustain implementation of Rivers the Social Investment experienced fingerprint due number of depositors paid, put numbers because even and need for for lacking in were merit. the court to defence. entertain suit framework, toneed national development, commitment to we strengthening guide policy direction, shape voluntarily, and alsoOnido have stands Muritala Babalola, as the Itsuspected directed Oba Babalola to hand stealing, inform you that His Excellency, the Patrick and forgery incontinued connection Akpobolokemi, through his Committee’s accounts.

Akpobolokemi, of alleged He further disclosed that efforts to appeal to our people in Osun Chime Eguma Ezebalike and Programme Agency (NSIPA). the time we spread our sheets, According to Lough, besides against them. implicated will face sanctions. a total of 501 candidates were below 200.

A breakdown of the results to registration infractions, modalities to commence inclusion reiterate responsibilities relating to implementation of ongoing healthcare services nationwide. new beneficiaries to I speak with you today, Friday, depositors to appear physically as the corporation continues efforts among not lessinthan 100,000 foreigners cooperative describing the association as of Ido Ido Local Government national security. over all government properties in Executive Governor of Oyo State of with alleged illegal transfers from the Collinsexamined Ogbonna and The court further held he N754.8 million Lukman Oladele, were ongoing toorigin, expand the state’s Sections and 66Monday of thethat Police Ezebalike anddepositors Oladele had Addressing the gathering, He identified the processed. centres as lawyers successfully

by Kunle JAMB released by4JAMB on showed figure, he said, wasguaranteed far above Prince they need to peaceful,” we'll able to underscored get back tothe the are ofbe private sector actors within the counterpart funding obligations health sector reforms under the The Coordinating Minister identified and I'm sure new are neither before the corporation for offraud. countries transit and a payment living inbe this country asand refugees.

Area of the state. possession tothe the Chairman Nigeria, inof exercise the powers athat vital partner inofbe promoting The SGF account of the VIMSAS Committee. appealed the ruling, signed nor approved any In a unanimous decision delivered among five persons charged with Gbolahan, Acts that empower them to bring argued that by the provisions register to accommodate more his governor expressed joyown adated deep social Tigh Technologies Limited, Sascon Equal Opportunity Group (JEOG) that 983,187 candidates (50.29 per cent) acceptable margins and currently he said. public on what our opinions The government, in a letter of Ido local government.

In the conferred on him by Sub-section destination, explore inclusive All these are the responsibilities Ministerial Oversight Committee and equity fund commitments. national agenda toward achieving Oludare said this yesterday being paid,” he said. verification. of Health and Social Welfare, portion of their deposits.

He was originally arraigned with arguing that the EFCC failed to withdrawal instructions or internal yesterday, the appellate court terrorism and murder.

The others charge against the Terrorism Act, it is only the the peace, advocacy, unity and the ofvital role of faith-based households, stressing that under investigation. sense ofFebruary, responsibility, noting that vulnerable International School, Maitama, of across centres nationwide. scored between 160the anddefendants, 199, while 2nd 2024 and signed the state government 1&2 of Section 26 ofcooperation the Chiefs stronger of the commission, give them policies, framework toComputer strengthen broader In his11remarks, Pate Universal Health Coverage.

Prof.

Muhammad Pate who are several others, but the charges were link him to any wrongdoing and memos related theTerrorism alleged Kenneth Goodluck Kpasa, Osiga allowed Akpobolokemi’s appeal, Section and 99 to of(24.97 the Attorney General of thereaffirmed Federation vulnerable household should be meantime, the initiative is a bold step social progress. organisations in to addressing Abuja, Wudil Information According to Oloyede, the results 488,197 5candidates per cent) "A total of 39, 834 Ali results remain by the Commissioner fortowards Local no

Umahi says FG investing trillions in construction of roads across Nigeria Affirms Nigeria's readiness for strategic partnership

Air Peace Incident: Oshiomhole Violated Aviation Mining Development: Nigeria, USto 920 Death Toll in Venezuela Earthquakes Rises Regulation, AON Alleges, Minister Orders Probe UTME: JAMB Releases Results, Withholds 39,834 Aniagwu: Oborevwori’ s Performance Unsettling Omo-Agege Explore Areas of Strategic Partnership

Osun Guber: APC Candidate, Oyebamiji

Places 1,426 resultsdeputy under scrutiny Queries former senate president’s threat-to-life claims Globacom: how our product can help students excel in JAMB, other exams

Aiyedatiwa Launches FG's N1.2bn Visits TinubuCash At State Housein Ondo, Conditional Transfer Akume Assures Nigerians Nominates NOA DG: FGCommissioners to Launch 37,000 Citizens' Brigade Nationwide

in Captivity of Freedom

FG to Repatriate 15,000 Nigerians Stranded Abroad

Alleged Money Laundering: EFCC Arraigns SunTrust Bank CEO, Executive

NDIC: Depositors of 46 Revoked MFBs Protected, Payments Ongoing BurningofRiversAssemblyComplex:CourtDismisses Pate: FG Application Has Disbursed N32.88bn Challenging Competence of Charge

Basic for Q2Fraud 2026 Appeal CourtHealthcare Acquits Ex-NIMASA DGFund Akpobolokemi in N754.8m Case

Oyo Govt Suspends Monarch in Ibadan

support,” hepromise said. of “Renewed fulfilling the Government andPresident Chieftaincy Ahmed thanked Bola Matters, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola,

Law,sustained Cap. 28 Vol I, Lawsthat of Oyo and dialogue can left Statebehind. of Nigeria 2000positively. and by virtue reshape migration of all other enabling powers in

has vowedthe to hit hard atthe anyone, set aside Ikeja unreleased.

Ofruling these, of 1,426 results no matter how highly placed, who contravenes the law.

Donald and Ochueja Thankgod. later amended to include only him Technology.

Kano State and They wereWudil, last week arraigned on a seven-count criminal charge

relied onfileinadmissible evidence transfers.

Act, shows that theand police have that any released charge ofbut terrorism are can also being sadly, fraudulent scored between powers to also 140 initiate 159. terrorism against them.

Their lawyer, Mr. Lukman charges against the defendant.

7

SATURDAY AUGUST 22, 2026 • T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R

NEWS

IMO RECORDS SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF FIRST ROBOTIC ASSISTED SURGERY...

Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma (third left) and Prof Kingsley Ekwueme (third right), with some medical personnel after the successful completion of the first robotic-assisted surgery at the Imo Robotics and Oncology Centre within the Imo Specialist Hospital Umuguma Owerri... yesterday

Dangote Offers East African Countries 30% Stake in Planned $16bn Refinery

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Dangote Group has offered East African countries a combined 30 per cent equity stake in its planned refinery in Kenya, with Kenya, Ethiopia and Rwanda expressing interest in participating in the multibillion-dollar project.

The offer, first reported by Bloomberg, was disclosed by Kenyan President William Ruto’s Economic Adviser, David Ndii, at a capital markets forum in Nairobi late Thursday.

Ndii said Kenya could take a 10 per cent stake valued at about $500 million, putting the potential combined investment by countries in the region at approximately $1.5 billion.

“The total for the region is about $1.5 billion. I don't actually see a challenge in doing that, and if some

of them are not off-taking we will backstop,” he said.

The proposed refinery is expected to be a replica of the 700,000 barrels per day Dangote Petroleum Refinery in Lagos and is being promoted by Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, as part of a major expansion of his energy and industrial interests across Africa.

According to Ndii, Dangote expects the refinery itself to cost as much as $16 billion, while the petrochemical complex and associated port infrastructure could require about $20 billion in investment.

He disclosed that groundbreaking for the project was expected in September, adding that the facility would receive about 600,000 barrels of crude oil daily from oil fields in Uganda and Kenya.

Abiodun Receives PDP, ADC Defectors into APC Ogun State Governor and now on,” he said. leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prince Dapo Abiodun, yesterday formally welcomed hundreds of former members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and African Democratic Congress (ADC), including party leaders across the nine local government areas of Ogun East Senatorial District, into the ruling APC. The defectors were received at an elaborate reception held at the Ojude-Oba carnival ground in Ijebu-Ode, which was filled to capacity with APC members, supporters and the new entrants.

Welcoming the defectors, Governor Abiodun described their decision to join the APC as a demonstration that they had “seen the light”, assuring them of equal treatment and full integration into the party.

“We are happy you have seen the light and you have decided to follow the light. You have become one of us from

The governor urged the new and existing members to return to their respective wards and mobilise support for the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections, expressing confidence that the party would retain its dominance in the state.

Abiodun said the achievements of his administration since 2019 had distinguished the APC from opposition parties, particularly in the area of infrastructure, noting that more than 100 roads had been constructed across Ogun East, including about 26 roads in Ijebu-Ode alone.

He listed some of the ongoing and completed projects in the senatorial district to include the Gateway International Airport, major road projects, the Olokola Deep Sea Port, the Olokola-Kajola Gas Industrial Free Zone, oil exploration in Ogun Waterside and other economic infrastructure.

The Kenyan government’s proposed 10 per cent participation would therefore require an investment of approximately $500 million, while Ethiopia and Rwanda have also indicated interest in taking stakes in the project.

Ndii said Uganda had yet to

decide whether to invest in the Kenyan refinery, partly because it already had plans to develop its own refining capacity.

Uganda is considering a 60,000 barrels per day refinery in partnership with Alpha MBM Investments of the United Arab

Emirates. The country has also agreed to invest with Tanzania and Vitol Bahrain in an oil hub on the Tanzanian coast.

The proposed Kenyan refinery is expected to have an economic impact beyond refining petroleum products, with Ndii projecting that

the project could inject about $4 billion into the Kenyan economy annually.

He said the refinery and several other major industrial projects in the pipeline could collectively contribute as much as 10 per cent of Kenya’s gross domestic product.

Wike: Adeleke Now Part of Tinubu's National Rainbow Coalition Osun gov won’t join APC, will work with FG, says campaign spokesman

Olawale Ajimotokan and Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, said the visit of Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke to President Bola Tinubu was part of a plan to build a larger Rainbow Coalition in support of the aspiration of the President in the 2027 election.

Wike stated this yesterday in Abuja during an inspection of the IBB International Golf and Country Club that is undergoing renovation.

However, the spokesperson for the Ademola Adeleke Campaign Council, Pelumi Olajengbesi, has dismissed speculation that Governor Adeleke may defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying the governor’s recent meeting with President Bola Tinubu was a courtesy visit and not a prelude to changing political allegiance.

He said although Adeleke was

in another political party, Wike dismissed claims by rival factions regarding the newly re-elected governor's platform strategy, noting that while Adeleke ran on the Accord Party platform due to internal wranglings within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), he remains deeply rooted in the PDP structure and is now fully committed to supporting Tinubu ahead of 2027.

Wike said, "l don't know what you call opposition as far as there is no opposition now. Adeleke is only... You remember PDP, you realise that. But because of internal wranglings, and for him to be able to secure a ticket to run for the second term, he had to find a platform, and that platform happened to be Accord Party. But he's a member of the Peoples Democratic Party.

"And what happened last night (Thursday) is meeting to rebuild a larger Rainbow Coalition. And he is supporting Mr. President.

He's in a different party; I'm supporting Mr. President, and I'm in a different party. So, it's a larger Rainbow Coalition. I told you that the 2027 election will be the easiest election. All those ADC who are talking about 'Oh, they helped Adeleke to win,' they just wanted to go and harvest where they never planted, you know.

"So, Adeleke is fully supporting Mr. President. And so, we had to meet last night and encourage ourselves to continue. And the next few weeks, watch what is going to happen. You will see a larger Rainbow Coalition in this country.”

The also reiterated that his strategy was to keep political rivals like Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, off-balance, adding that their discomfort over these political realignments gives him no concern.

“I have told you—when you say "leading opposition" that there's no opposition. What

you have are people who are just trying to see whether they can be relevant. Who is the opposition leader now, who? Ordinarily, it should have been PDP, but because of the crisis we've had, and so you can't see a formidable party that you will call the leading opposition party. So, I don't care.

Whatever—whatever they feel is not my business. I don't want them to feel well. It's not my wish that they should feel well.

My business is to make them not feel well all the time.

“If they are having high blood pressures, yes, that's my job—to make them have high blood pressure. Your business is to make sure that you beat him thoroughly, so that he will be sick all through.

And that's what we are doing to them. So, how Atiku feels, how Obi feels, ah, it does not give me any headache. In fact, if I know now how they feel, I will add more crises for them. So, that's my position.”

Fubara Unveils 105-Bed Omoku Hospital, Targets Improved Healthcare in Rivers West Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, yesterday inaugurated the remodelled and fully furnished 105-bed Omoku Zonal Hospital in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local

Government Area, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to providing quality and accessible healthcare across the state.

Fubara, who spoke at the inauguration ceremony, said his administration places a premium on healthcare because unlike lost

wealth that could be recovered, lost health was difficult to regain.

“If you lose wealth, you have lost nothing, because so long as you're alive, opportunity might come back and you might gain what you have lost. If you lose your health, you have lost

something. It's not an easy thing to regain lost health,” he said.

The governor described healthcare, alongside the protection of lives and property and provision of essential services, as a fundamental responsibility of the government.

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T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R • SATURDAY AUGUST 22, 2026

NEWS

MEDIA BRIEFING...

Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare(left), and Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr Musa Sdamu Aliyu, briefing journalists on the suspension of three Permanent Secretaries after investigators uncovered another fake agency operating within the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation at the Presidential Villa, Abuja... yesterday PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI

Kwara APC Crisis Deepens as Mustapha Dumps Party, Picks PDP Ticket

Vows to defeat AbdulRazaq in Kwara Central Says he backs president Party's reconciliation efforts falter

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin and Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The crisis rocking the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State has deepened ahead of the 2027 general elections following the resignation of the Senator representing Kwara Central Senatorial District, Saliu Mustapha, from the ruling party and his decision to pick the senatorial ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Mustapha, who chairs the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development, formally announced his resignation from

the APC yesterday, ending weeks of speculation over his political future amid growing discontent within the party over the conduct and outcome of its recent governorship primary.

Also, another prominent APC member from Patigi Local Government Area, Hon. Kolo Jiya, has resigned from the party and joined the PDP. Jiya is reportedly positioning himself to secure the PDP ticket for the Kwara North Senatorial District.

The latest defections followed earlier protests by 10 APC governorship aspirants who rejected what they described as the alleged imposition of

the Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Salihu Yahaya Danladi, as Governor AbdulRazaq's preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election.

The aggrieved aspirants had raised concerns about the process through which the party's governorship candidate emerged, further widening the divisions within the APC. He said the coalition, which comprises members of the G15,

Otoge Progressives (TOP) and the elders’ caucus, deliberately chose the PDP because it was considered the most suitable platform outside the APC for supporting Tinubu while challenging the ruling party’s structure in Kwara.

“I did not abandon the APC. But I have left the APC with a collective understanding. I’m representing the group in PDP so as to reset what AbdulRazaq

thinks he wants to do,” he said.

According to him, the coalition emerged from the political crisis that followed the APC governorship nomination process, involving several aspirants who, he alleged, became alienated because of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s style of running the party.

Mustapha listed some members and associates of the coalition to include Senator

Yahaya Oloriegbe, Dele Belgore (SAN), Senator Lola Ashiru, Senator Sadiq Umar, among others.

THISDAY gathered that Mustapha has secured the PDP ticket to contest the Kwara Central senatorial seat in 2027, setting the stage for a major political battle with the APC candidate for the district, who is expected to be Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

China Rating Agency Assigns Afreximbank ‘AAA/Stable’ for Second Consecutive Year

in Beijing, recently, CCXI said it that these strengths “strongly Africa.

Tinubu, Tambuwal, Shagari Mourn Nume Ekeghe expects the bank’s credit rating supported the overall credit “It demonstrates our ability to deliver on our mandate, China Chengxin International to remain stable in the next 12 strength of the Bank”.

41 Goronyo Boat Mishap Victims Credit Rating Co., Ltd. (CCXI) to 18 months.

Commenting on the rating, support our member states Deji Elumoye in Abuja and Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto

President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the boat mishap in Gorau Community of Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State, which claimed many lives and left others missing.

In the same vein, former Sokoto State Governor and Senator representing Sokoto South, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal and the Chairman of the Governing Board of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Alhaji Mukhtar Shehu Shagari, have expressed deep grief over the boat mishap in Gorau community that claimed 41 lives on Thursday.

The tragedy, which occurred on the Rima River, has thrown the entire Goronyo community and Sokoto State into mourning.

According to the National Inland Waterways Authority

(NIWA) 14 persons were rescued from the capsized boat, while search and rescue operations were still ongoing as of Thursday evening.

The President, in a statement issued yesterday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described the incident as a tragedy and extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, the government and people of Sokoto State.

“The news of this boat mishap deeply saddens me. My thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families during this difficult time. I pray that God grants the departed eternal rest and gives their loved ones the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” Tinubu said.

The President also commended emergency responders and local authorities for their swift rescue and recovery efforts.

has affirmed African ExportImport Bank’s (Afreximbank) AAA issuer credit rating with a Stable outlook for the second consecutive year.

This underscores the Bank’s financial strength and strategic importance.

In its 2026 Credit Rating Report for the Bank, released

The report affirmed Afreximbank’s “advantages, including high strategic positioning, sound risk management system, flexible business development, strong profitability, prudent liquidity management and a very high coverage ratio of current assets to short-term debts,” saying

Managing Director, Treasury & Markets and Treasurer, Mr. Chandi Mwenebungu, said, “CCXI’s affirmation of our AAA rating for a second consecutive year is a strong endorsement of Afreximbank’s financial strength, disciplined risk management and enduring relevance to Africa and Global

through periods of uncertainty and mobilise capital from the breadth and depth of diverse funding pools across local and global markets, while maintaining the financial resilience and institutional strength expected of a leading multilateral development bank.”

Akpabio Hails Tinubu, Eno as Federal Varsity Takes Off in Akwa Ibom Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the establishment of the Federal University of Agriculture and Technology, Obio Akpa, in Oruk Anam Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

Akpabio also praised the state

Governor, Umo Eno, for releasing the Obio Akpa campus of the Akwa Ibom State University to facilitate the immediate take-off of the new federal institution.

The Senate President, according to a statement by his Media Aide, Jackson Udom, spoke yesterday at the funeral service held in honour of the late former Majority Leader of the Akwa Ibom State House

of Assembly, Hon. (Elder) Imo Akpan Ibokette, at Abak International Nursery/Primary School, Abak Local Government Area of the state.

Akpabio, who expressed optimism that the university would commence academic activities this year, said he was looking forward to the admission of its pioneer students.

“I look forward to the

admission of the first batch of students into the Federal University of Agriculture and Technology in this Senatorial District,” he said.

He thanked Tinubu for signing the legislation establishing the university, while also appreciating Eno for making available the state university’s Obio Akpa campus for the institution’s commencement.

saturday AUGUST 22, 2026 • T H I S D AY

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saturday AUGUST 22, 2026 • T H I S D AY

Congratulatory Message WE, THE MEMBERS OF IGBO ELITES PORT HARCOURT, REJOICE AND FELICITATE WITH YOU, OUR VERY REVERED FRIEND AND BROTHER, ON YOUR CORONATION AS EZE CHINECHENDO I, OF ADAZI-ANI. INDEED, THE CAP AND THE THRONE FITS YOUR PERSONALITY. YOUR EXTRAORDINARY LOVE AND CARE FOR HUMANITY HAVE BEEN EVIDENCED AS YOU HAVE BEEN CHOSEN BY YOUR PEOPLE TO LEAD AND GUIDE THEM. WE PRAY GOD TO GRANT YOU THE DESIRED WISDOM AND SOUND MIND FOR A BOUNTIFUL REIGN. YOUR REIGN SHALL BE LONG, HEALTHY, AND PROGRESSIVE! LONG LIVE IGWE CHINECHENDO I OF ADAZI-ANI!!

LONG LIVE ANAMBRA STATE!!

LONG LIVE NIGERIA!!

HRM, DR. CHINEDU BENSON

MADUBUKO, OFR EZE CHINECHENDO I OF ADAZI-ANI SIGNED: Chief Canice & Obioma Nnabara Chief Celestine Ihuoma Chief Chijioke Tasie Chief (Dr.) Charles Dimnwobi Chief Ifeanyi Egbbo Chief (Dr.) Umejieke Ezeifedi Ichie Ikenna Onu Chief Ikenna Okafor Chief Emmanuel Chukwu Chief Fidelis Nweke Sir Peter Edom Chief Uche Nwosu Chief Cosmos Anigbogu Chief Daniel Okeke Chief Princewill Osigwe Chief Onodogu Odinka Chief Mike Emenonu High Chief Ikechukwu Otti Chief (Engr.) Festus Osogba Chief Chike Esom High Chief Ikenna Okafor Chief Ifeanyi Nwafor Chief Uchechukwu Ibe Chief Christian Ohakwe Chief Chukwuka Obi, PhD

COURTESY: IGBO ELITES PORTHARCOURT

saturday AUGUST 22, 2026 • T H I S D AY

A CROWN FOR A PURPOSE-DRIVEN LEADER It is with great joy and deep respect that I congratulate His Royal Majesty, Dr. Benson Chinedu Madubuko, OFR, on his coronation as Igwe Chinechendo I of the ancient Adaziani Kingdom.

This is a moment that honours not only a well-deserved crown, but a lifetime of service, integrity and generosity that has touched countless lives across Anambra State and beyond. Your journey from a respected entrepreneur and philanthropist to a revered traditional ruler is a testament to what purpose-driven leadership can achieve.

Today, I celebrate this historic milestone with you and your family. May your reign be guided by wisdom, marked by unity, and blessed with the peace and prosperity that your people so richly deserve.

Long live Igwe Chinechendo I of Adaziani Kingdom.

Olasunkanmi Owoyemi Managing Director, Sunbeth Global Concepts Limited

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AUGUST 22 2026 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

COMMENTARY

Scholarships On Social Platforms Applicants must verify foreign opportunities, urges ALHASSAN BALA

H

undreds of young Nigerians, including students and graduates from northern Nigeria, have benefited from legitimate scholarships and educational opportunities offered by foreign governments and institutions. Such programmes can open doors to quality education, professional development and international exposure.

However, the growing use of social media to advertise scholarships, jobs and training opportunities abroad also presents serious risks.

Some seemingly attractive offers may be fraudulent, exploitative or even serve as channels for human trafficking and forced recruitment.

This is why young Nigerians must exercise extreme caution before accepting foreign scholarships or employment opportunities promoted online.

Recently, I came across a northern Nigerian professor working outside the country advising Nigerians, particularly young people from the North, to take advantage of a scholarship opportunity reportedly being promoted by educators he knows in Russia.

I have enormous respect for the professor, as I do for many academics who genuinely want to help young Nigerians access opportunities abroad.

Nevertheless, his recommendation reminded me of the disturbing experience surrounding the Alabuga recruitment programme in Russia and the need for prospective applicants to verify such offers independently before travelling.

For those unfamiliar with the Alabuga controversy, the programme began attracting young Africans through online advertisements offering employment, vocational training and what was presented in some cases as educational opportunities in Russia.

Investigations by international and Nigerian media later raised serious concerns about the programme.

Young Africans, including Nigerians, were recruited through social media and other online channels and taken to Russia.

YOUNG NIGERIANS MUST EXERCISE EXTREME CAUTION BEFORE ACCEPTING FOREIGN SCHOLARSHIPS OR EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES PROMOTED ONLINE

Reports indicated that some participants who expected education or employment opportunities ended up working in facilities associated with the production of drones used by Russia in its war against Ukraine.

The Nigerian Ministry of Education subsequently said its website had been compromised and that advertisements for the controversial Alabuga Start programme had been posted without official authorisation.

Officials also stressed that the programme was not part of Nigeria's approved bilateral scholarship arrangements with Russia.

The episode should have taught Nigerians an important lesson: the appearance of government endorsement, the involvement of a university professor or the presence of an attractive scholarship advertisement on social media does not, by itself, establish that an opportunity is genuine or safe.

There is an even more disturbing dimension to the growing concern over recruitment of Africans to Russia.

In recent years, reports have emerged of Africans travelling to Russia after being promised civilian employment, only to find themselves recruited into the Russian military and deployed to the war in Ukraine.

In February 2026, the Russian ambassador to Nigeria, Andrey Podyelyshev, denied that Moscow operated any government-supported programme to recruit Nigerians to fight in Ukraine.

He said that if illegal individuals or organisations were recruiting Nigerians unlawfully, such activities were not connected to the Russian state.

Despite the denial, investigations and reports have documented cases involving Nigerians and other Africans who allegedly travelled to Russia believing they were taking up civilian jobs before being sent to the battlefield. In one widely reported Nigerian case, Adam Anas and other Nigerians were recruited under the guise of security employment and subsequently deployed to fight in Ukraine.

Bala writes from Abuja

The Path To Nation-Building

I

VICTOR C. ARIOLE argues the need to redesign the mother tongue policy

rony! The very crises which have prompted Nigeria's turn towards STEM are not technical crises at all... not crises of insufficient engineering, inadequate mathematical modelling, insufficient laboratory science ... They are crises of meaning, narrative, identity and moral community − humanistic and social.

G.S. Ibileye (Vice Chancellor FUL) in 2026 p.25.

I‎ n this era of Artificial Intelligence (AI) over 6000 mother tongues in Africa needed to overwhelm extant epistemic process with that of Africans as Africans remain more humanistic and mindful of human interaction with seen and unseen realities than other sub-human races. There is only One Human Race and the knowledge processes coming from humans must be inclusive and helpful for the existence of the race, not detrimental to it. The languages spoken by humans ‎ c‎ ontain knowledge processes yet unexplored and Nigeria with over 500 languages should map-out what it takes to harvest such knowledge contents to assuage current danger of looming human extinction caused by excessive, dehumanistic arsenals in the hands of the "wicked". Harvesting humanistic knowledge contents comes with exploring the values of African languages.

N ‎ euroscientists agree that human brain is operating at barely 10% of its capacity and that every child is capable of acquiring at least five languages at earlier stages of life, hence a firm foundation to allow for

tolerance, creativity, openness to others, innovation and peaceful behaviour for a better humanity. Stopping wars, insurgency, greed, insatiable political turbulence are challenges that are proactively nipped in the bud by a great dose of humanistic knowledge, and as well, speaking a‎ nd creating narratives in the languages of the weaker ones to woo them to accept terms of governance and social contract that make them give their best in nation building like it is done in Ethiopia and closer to Nigeria, Chad.

Nigerian Academy of Letters (NAL) at its 28th Convocation, Induction of New Members and Investiture of Regular and Honorary Fellows, chaired by its President Prof Andrew Haruna, and in which 46 new members were inducted and 10 Fellows were crowned, and honorary fellow was bestowed on the El-Kanemi of Borno, HRH Shehu of Borno, Humanistic Practice Award to Tunde Kelani and Distinguished Life Fellow to Professor Emeritus Femi Osofisan, appeal was made to the Federal Government not to abolish the Mother Tongue (MT) Policy but to re-design it and re-position it as "A Second G ‎ eneration Mother Tongue Policy" so as to see it serve as "Path To Nation-Building" as it is seen in Ethiopia, Senegal, South Africa and Chad.

For Professor Imelda Udoh who anchored her presentation on "The First Pathway To Nation-Building", MT draws attention to the mooring infrastructure of a nation like

stated by Prof Ishaq Oloyede - cultural consciousness, linguistic heritage, functional literature consumption of the young ones from the homes where mother tongues are used, to ground them and induct them into human beings distinct from animals.

Like mother tongue like mother suckling - very humanistic and resourceful; and leads to human optimisation pathway in the labyrinth of pathways.

For Professor Vicky Sylvester who anchored her presentation on "Policy and Practice Mismatch", the Federal Government was ignoring the folcrum of mother tongue practice as enunciated

by UNESCO in 1953 − not as cultural idealism but as an intellectual boost for the young ones who must still face colonial languages as well as the Nigerian pidgin. Hence, the need to fund it so as to gratiate the self-esteem of the Nigerian child into well-rounded adult. Developing contents in this age of AI could be very original and universal if mother tongue practice is well planned, and that is where Professor Yinusa Salami brings in what he calls epistemic order and pluriversalism − that is, no matter the number of mother tongues in Nigeria or Africa, their epistemic values and contents must be isolated and uploaded into a universal data base. It takes research, and producing good curricula to do that. It must not be just a translation from European languages to the mother tongue or vice-versa. Here linguists will tell you that semantic unit

of African proverbs or expressions cannot be rendered word by word.

Epistemic order could as well create semantic units specific to mother tongues and model, to be appreciated by universalisation. Just like Professor Muhammed Sulaiman Audu mentions in his paper about Twi and Ga in Ghana.

Two languages well developed by the Ghanaians to upload their own knowledge process notwithstanding the official English in Ghana and the official French in Togo.

Ga has helped to create harmony between Ghanaians and Togolese, albeit as exhibited in Aflao border. This seems not obtainable in Nigeria, Cameroon and Chad borders – Fulfude, Kanuri and Hausa seem on centrifugal drive. How to reconcile them for centripetal purposes beckon; and it is humanistic and social. At the induction ceremony, The EL-Kanemi mentioned 1500 years of existence, museum and unconquered state, and it should matter in nationhood building.

In Ethiopia, the official languages are Ethiopian languages with a dominant one known as Amharic. It is expected that each of the official languages take care of its region of origin and educate its citizen along the local needs of Ethiopia, and that expectation to work at federal level must be the knowledge of Amharic - not federal character quota basis.

Ariole, FNAL, is a P ‎ rofessor of French and Francophone Studies, U ‎ niversity of Lagos

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AUGUST 22, 2026 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INSIGHT 13

SEPTEMBER 25, 2021 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INSIGHT

No concessions...

What a waste!

In 2023 Praise of President Hamas and the Attack on Israel Buhari

W W

T

The Death of Atim Emmanuel Akposi Stop Ritual Attacks and Killings

for Alleged the teaching hospital in Calabar the EFCC, President Buhari by his actionhe hasAdvocacy successfully brought back to henho President Buhari took over“genocide.” the reins of saidMuhammadu the Nigerian Whobywants Israel public consciousness the need to treat public funds with the highest level power on May 29, 2015, Nigeria was sadly a destroyed? broken state in Who the Witches is outraged where she died. terror situation is dress does not know of transparency and accountability. many respects. As a result of many other factors including bad over the death of Atim A family member told AfAW rehearsal for the nearthat “genocide” has occurred when After keeping treasury looters on their toes and at bay through the governance and untold level of corruption, government could not he Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AfAW) Emmanuel Akposi, also that before this incident, Emma future world confrontaupwards of a people have particularly, President Buhari moved to curb unnecessary spending live up to its financial obligations to citizens and service providers at both of the 80% EFCC, urges the Nigerian public to stop ritual known as Atim Eyo. Her death had been calling the mother a habits of the pretends nation on what economists call articles of ostentation. Part federalwhere and state Mohammedans levels. attacks and killings because the notion tion take on been exterminated?

Who of the disclosures of the President’s stock taking wasthe howvicious the country Indeed one of the first official assignments that President Buhari carried of ritual money and wealth is completely underscores impact of witch.

He claimed that he went the rest of the world? In Nigeria, we not to know? frittered away billions in foreign currency by importing goods, which AfAWchurches is making this callwas following out was the approval of billions of Naira in bailout funds to enable state witchcraft suspicion and can accusa- baseless. to some and toldthe are hurtpay each time as basic as workers’ salaries. Granting Antonio Guterres?

The UN? Ambe produced at home.

One of such items was rice, a major staple among reported arrest of suspected ritualists in Oyo State governors something those bailout tion into on the innocent lives.

Akposi's that the mother wasmedia a witch.

Nigerians.

By Africa? banning rice importation country, the President on one South Christmastime is security carried in southern Nigeria.

The local reported funds was a huge boostterror to national because the nesty pressure International? of arrears son, Emmanuel, accused her of Emma once openly confronted hand had saved the nation billions in foreign currency annually. that members of the Western Nigeria Securitythe of unpaid monthly salaries building dangerously all over the country was a Turkiye? Qatar? Saudi Arabia? out just to dampen the spirit of the And, on the other hand, the President has boosted domestic production Network, Amotekun, arrested suspected ritualists ticking bomb. witchcraft.

He claimed that the mother accusing her of witchcraft Only the Jews and Armenians in Yuletide.

Usually, some criminal of rice and in the process had nudged the country into self sufficiency in with the body parts of a 73-year-old man.

Ask the naysayers and they would readily remind you of how long it mother was responsible for the but the elder brother called him to these modern suffered -minded Fulani and Boko Haramand how that food have production.

He also created millions of jobs for young people in the rice The suspects, who were apprehended in the took President Buhari to appoint his ministers contributed to times death of his child. order.

Boluwaji area in Ibadan, said that a Muslim collapse operatives of the economylurk as if, without ministers, was frozen. genocide.

There isvalue thechain. narrative terror in dark cor- governance What isahem. most admirable about President Buhari and government is cleric On asked them to procure But buying that narrative would amount to what a famous Nigerian writer,the Tutsis, On August 17,his2026, someone that fateful day,some thathuman was body ners to shoot at unharmed carolers surrounding its frugal management of scarce national resourcesato voice attain optimum goals. parts for rituals.

Ritual14 attacks areEmma widespread Chimamanda Adichie, termed “the danger of a single story”. Yet the whole sent AfAW note stating Friday August 2026, going oneofthatch house toknow thehow decrepit Islamic terrorists Recall are rigged be Buhari stepped in the saddle, oil revenue dropped that since to President in Nigeria. Irrational conceptions of how to story wasfrom that many our citizens did not a state that Emma had set the mum entered thebecome mother's room other inBuhari Nigeria’s rural veritable cold blankets: to him knowing abysmallyto as Jews, if to sabotage all the big promises he made to make money or wealthy and and successful President inheritedChristian in 2015. ablaze and that the woman tried strangling the mother but citizens during his campaigns. But with the little resources that trickle in, the undergird these atrocities. Many Nigerians It was therefore him to take stock againstChristians, the background spaces.

At thenecessary sacredforEaster period, to Hindus, to Buddhists, President is achieving what governments that received oil windfalls could in strongly believe in blood money, known in of the fact that the departing government did not, reportedly, cooperate full was at the teaching hospital the woman resisted him and tried more horror is meted out to hapless to Shinto adherents, to Jains, to Taonot dream of. some local languages as Ogun Owoto(Yoruba) well with the incoming government in terms of leaving workable handover Calabar fighting for her life.

AfAW to escape.

But he hit her the ists, to Confucians, to native-people Christians Nigeria.

Someone Today, the trains are up and running daily from Abuja to Kaduna. And or Ogwu ego (Igbo). They think that they notes. Althoughacross President Goodluck Jonathan was gracious in defeat, many contacted the woman's sons John could ground, fuel onthrough her and from Lagos to Ibadan a brand new rail track was started and completed; animists.

To all humanity. in theappointees terror were circle something become poured rich, or successful ritual of his stillknow sulking over what they saw as their personal and Eyo who confirmed the story. set her ablaze.

Emma fled citizens are already commuting daily to and fro these two major cities in the sacrifice.

Unfortunately, this is not thethe case. losses and therefore pulled all the stops to make things difficult for the Sunday Adole Jonah, Department about Christian feasts and celebracountry seamlessly as they reap from the dividends of democracy.

Andtook with her Ritual wealth has no basisthe in reason, science, Buhari government.

Family sources said they community after incident and tions.

There sure exists the pattern of of Physics, Federal University of the way this government is going, before 2023 when the President would or reality. Home movies known as Africa Even with the obvious and unpatriotic obscurantist behaviour of the PDP to a community health center and has been at large.

The Advocacy shutting down Technology, Minna, Niger State leave, the entire country would be linked by rail with all of its economic magic or Nollywood films have not helped appointees and their supporters still in government hell-bent on making later to Akamkpa hospital then to matters. for Alleged Witches calls for the These movies continue to reinforce things difficult for Buhari, the President on with his methodical repair advantages.

Christian holy days.

Killingmoved ChrisAinofenokhai Ojeifo, Abuja these mistaken notions and other superstitions. of a broken country.

The first thing he did was to identify all possible sources arrest and prosecution of Emma. tians on Christmas is sheer terror Families, churches, mosques, andensure other public of income to the nation and directed that all inflows be State authorities should designed hurt theinmost.

Inthe policy of institutions do not encourage the interrogation paid into oneto single account line with is apprehended made 2012, in Nigeria, the St. Theresa ofthat thesehe traditional occult beliefs.and There are Single Treasury Account (TSA).

T H E S AT U R DAY N E W S PA P E R to answer for his crimes no robust efforts to criticize or dispel these The TSA policy, interestingly, was mooted by the T H E SAT U R DAY N E W S PA P E R Catholic Church at Madalla near EDITOR ADEBOWALE EDITORYEMI OBINNA CHIMA irrational and paranormal claims in schools, PDP government but its penchant for imprudence Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU Abuja was bombed with concomiDEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU colleges, and universities.

So millions of and lack of accountability denied it the courage of MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO for Alleged Witches MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO tant casualties.

WeWhat hear those Nigerians grow up blindly believing that they implementing the policy. thethat President literally DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU DEPUTY MANAGING ISRAEL IWEGBU CHAIRMAN EDITORIALDIRECTOR BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI who bankrolled and supported could make money through ritual sacrifice of did was to gather all the nation’s money into one box CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN human body parts. The belief has led many and locked it up with a big and watched for that terror attack arepadlock approaching EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL UWUGIAREN MANAGING EDITORIYOBOSA BOLAJI ADEBIYI Nigerians to commit crimes and perpetrate any thief to come close.

THE THEOMBUDSMAN OMBUDSMANKAYODE KAYODEKOMOLAFE KOMOLAFE the zenith of political influence in here are Nigerians a numberhave of films dealing atrocities.

Many been jailed Who can blame the President for almost developing Nigeria.

Some of the terrorphile with groups of nasty teenage girls or are undergoing court trials due to ritualparanoia over the safeguard of the national treasury relatedwho attacks and murder. with revelations and reports of mind-boggling looting protagonists have sequestered their exclude others or push some Not too ago, the police arrested that took place in the years of the PDP? With DAYNNEEWWSSPA PAPPEERRSSLLI M I MI TI TEEDD large broods in 16 the US. Surprised? outlong of their group.

This issome also TTHHI SI SDAY young Nigerians for stealing female pants, such disclosures of how billions meant for fighting EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA With the money, doors are open sadly true in the real world, bullying is which they intended to use for ritual sacrifice. insurgency in the Northeast ended up in the pockets of GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, stateside

by Democrats.

ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI common and wrong.

This type of bullying AfAW is asking all Nigerians to desist from a few individuals while our gallant soldiers fought with ISRAEL IWEGBU DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE ritual-related abuses ritual bare hands and empty stomach, President October 7 on 3761 BC is scared toBuhari has been taken to because the limit bymoney Donald DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI beliefs are baseless superstitions.

Nigerian was duty bound to bring sanity and accountability back DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI Trump who has warned Oman that if Judaism.

Hamas picked this “fine SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH media, schools, and colleges should help in national spending.

SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERICEIMIUHI OJEH ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK they interfere with discussions about the time” toEconomic unleash educate and reorient the public.

They should Thus, month-day under President match Buhari, the and ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI Strait of Hormuz then he will "bomb the assist in reasoning Nigerians out of this Financialat Crimes Commission which had terror Israel in 2023.(EFCC), As Israel CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO killer-superstitious remained comatose years, was the woken up to resume (expletive) out of absurdity Oman." and nonsense. pushed back atforHamas, world TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged its duties. Apart from the trillions of Naira of looted TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com Dennis Fitzgerald, 28 Landale St, Box turned against Israel and hollered Witches (AfAW) funds and property recovered from corrupt politicians

T

Teenage Girls Behaviour

T

Hill, Vic, Australia

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saturday AUGUST 22, 2026 • T H I S D AY

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T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R • SATURDAY AUGUST 22, 2026

NEWS

NEXT BIG PODCASTER 2026 BOOTCAMP...

L-R: Account Executive, AT3 Resources — The Muvmnt Agency, Rukayah Giwa; Senior Consultant, Damilola Kawojue; Facilitator, Halimah Yusuf; Convener, PodFest Naija and Founder, AT3 Resources — The Muvmnt Agency, Tosin Adefeko; Partner, PodFest Naija and Lead Consultant, Dashboard Innovations, George Ugbegua, and Project Coordinator, PodFest Naija, Progress Eyoh, during the Next Big Podcaster 2026 Bootcamp, held in Lagos….yesterday

FG, Borno Intensify Efforts to Rescue 44 Abducted Mussa Schoolchildren Families protest in Borno over children abducted nearly 100 days ago Ndume urges military to rescue victims Northern senators demand fast-track of state police after Adamawa, Sokoto attacks

Michael Olugbode in Abuja The federal government and Borno State Government have stepped up efforts to secure the safe release of the 44 primary school pupils abducted from Mussa community in Askira/ Uba Local Government Area of the state, Governor Babagana

Zulum has said.

This was as the parents o‌ f children abducted from Borno State have protested in Uba town, demanding that the federal government secures their release nearly 100 days after they were taken. The children were seized from their classrooms on May 15 in Mussa, a community

on the fringes of the Sambisa Forest, a long-time stronghold of Islamist militants.

Also, a member of the National Assembly, Senator Ali Ndume, has called on the Nigerian Army to redouble its efforts to secure the release of 78 school children and one teacher abducted by insurgents

from Mussa and Lassa, two communities in Southern Borno.

The Northern Senators Forum also called on the federal government, state governors and Houses of Assembly to urgently ratify the State Police Bill, following fresh terrorist attacks in Adamawa and Sokoto states that claimed the lives of

Man Hires Assassins to Kill Friend Over Land Deal Anambra community leader shot dead

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

The Anambra State Police Command has uncovered the circumstances surrounding the gruesome murder of a 56-yearold man, Mr. Kelechi Madu, in Awkuzu, Oyi Local Government Area of the State.

This was as a community leader and traditional title holder in Nri Community, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, Oba Maduka Arubaluezeama, was shot dead.

Madu had been declared missing some days back but was later discovered dead, with police investigation showing that

his death was plotted by his friend in connivance with others, after duping him of money for nonexistent property.

A press release by the state Police Command's Spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the revelation was after the arrest of the deceased's friend, Mr. Ifeanyi Nwankwo, 32 years old, who allegedly confessed to plotting the murder and engaging two others to execute the act.

Ikenga said, "Following the report, on 18th August 2026 from the wife of the deceased that her husband had gone out on the evening of 17th August

2026 and had not returned home.

"Police operatives in collaboration with members of the local vigilante group and the deceased’s family, immediately commenced inquiries and a search operation to establish his whereabouts.

"In the evening of same day, however, the wife returned to the station in distress and reported that her husband had been found dead in a nearby bush at Umuobi, Awkuzu."

Ikenga said police operatives immediately mobilised to the scene, where the deceased was found lying lifeless with a deep axe cut to his head.

He said in the course of the investigation, the Command arrested Mr. Nwankwo, a friend of the deceased, who confessed to his involvement in the planning and killing of Madu.

"Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect allegedly obtained money fraudulently from the deceased under the guise of assisting him to acquire a piece of land. In an attempt to conceal the alleged fraudulent transaction and suppress the money obtained from the deceased, the suspect reportedly hired two other persons to murder him.

Pharmacy Academy Urges Nigeria to Prepare Now for Next Ebola Outbreak Oluchi Chibuzor

The Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy has urged Nigeria to strengthen its preparedness for Ebola and other emerging infectious diseases before the next outbreak, warning that the country must not wait for suspected cases before activating its response systems.

The call was made on Thursday during an Emergency Epidemic Preparedness Webinar organised by the Academy and moderated by its Director of

Programmes, Dr. Lolu Ojo. The webinar, themed ‘Building a Prepared, Coordinated and Resilient Healthcare Workforce’, brought together experts from medicine, pharmacy, nursing, medical laboratory science, physiotherapy and other health professions.

The President of the Academy, Prof. Lere Baale, said epidemic preparedness must be treated as a collective responsibility of the entire health system.

“An outbreak does not recognise professional boundaries.

Neither should preparedness,” Baale said.

He stressed that preparedness should begin before the first suspected case, with continuous training in surveillance, case recognition, infection prevention and control, referral pathways and emergency protocols.

“Preparedness is not a certificate that a country earns permanently. It is a capability that must be continuously strengthened, tested and renewed,” he said.

Also, the Chairman of

the Academy’s Ebola Task Group, Prof. Fola Tayo, called for continuous testing and improvement of Nigeria’s outbreak response systems.

“Preparedness must be continuous. It must be tested, evaluated and improved regularly.

People change, practices evolve and technology advances,” Tayo said.

He challenged health institutions to ask whether frontline workers knew exactly what to do when confronted with a suspected Ebola case.

more than 36 Nigerians.

Governor Zulum gave the assurance yesterday when he met with parents of the abducted children at the Government House, Maiduguri, amid growing concern over the fate of the pupils who were taken from Mussa Central Primary School on May 15, 2026.

The meeting was convened at the request of the parents, who have been pressing the authorities to intensify efforts to locate and rescue their children.

The governor said President Bola Tinubu had personally directed security agencies to ensure the safe recovery of the pupils, assuring the parents that the Federal Government, Nigerian Armed Forces and Borno State Government were working together towards their release.

“On behalf of the government and people of Borno State, I once again extend my sympathies over what happened at Mussa Central Primary School on the 15th of May 2026 that led to the abduction of about 44 primary school pupils,” Zulum said.

He also conveyed the President’s sympathy to the affected families.

“On behalf of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I want to sympathise with you. I want to assure you that Mr President has since directed security agencies to ensure the rescue of our children, and I believe they are working to ensure their rescue,” he said.

Zulum assured the parents that the authorities would deploy every necessary effort to bring the children home safely.

LAHF Sets to Reimagine Lagos as Living, Sensing Body

Dike Onwuamaeze

The Lagos Arts and Health Festival (LAHF) 2026 is billed to reimagine Lagos not merely as a city of infrastructure, systems, and movement, but as a living, sensing body shaped by the emotions, creativity, labour, and collective care of its people.

This was declared during the unveiling of the theme of the 2026 edition of LAHF, which is ‘Lagos as a Body – Creative Care in Action’.

This year’s edition is endorsed and supported by the Lagos State Government’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, and co-produced by the Global Arts in Medicine Fellowship, The Foladavid Care Foundation, Studio Yadi, Ayo Ekunz Visuals Production and Uwana Energy alongside practitioners and professionals.

The highlights of LAHF

include mental health programming for young people, arts outreach in clinical and correctional settings, sensory and somatic workshops, farmers’ markets, recreational games, collaborative murals, live performances, and a citywide health fair.

The festival will also strengthen legacy infrastructure through policy dialogues, research forums, and cross‑sector collaborations aimed at embedding creative health within Lagos’ long‑term development.

Speaking during the unveiling of the theme, the Chair and Global Development Lead of the Global South Arts and Health Initiative, Dr. Kunle Adewale, said, “There is a growing body of empirical research demonstrating that the arts are a powerful resource for human well-being.

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A Life That Inspires.

A Future That Excites.

Some people make an impact by what they achieve. Others make an impact by what they awaken in people. Pastor Jerry Eze is doing both.

Through his voice, his faith, and his remarkable ability to bring people together, he has become a source of hope and encouragement to millions, reminding people every day to believe, to keep going, and to expect more from life.

What makes his journey even more remarkable is that it is still unfolding. At a time when so much of the world is searching for meaning, connection, and hope, Pastor Jerry continues to build something that reaches far beyond himself; touching lives, inspiring communities, and showing what is possible when conviction meets consistency.

Today, we celebrate the man, the mission, and everything he represents.

And we celebrate with the excitement of knowing that the greatest chapters of his story are still ahead.

Happy Birthday, Pastor Jerry.

From all of us at Flutterwave

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SATURDAY AUGUST 22, 2026 • T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R

NEWS XTRA

EXCELLENCE IN LEADERSHIP AWARD...

L-R: Head, Internal Control and Compliance, May & Baker Nigeria Plc, Mr. Godwin Obiakor; Head, Human Capital Development, Mrs. Emem Essien; Managing Director/CEO and Awardee, Patrick Ajah; Founder, The Akinjide Adeosun Foundation (AAF), Akinjide Adeosun; Business and People Services Consultant, United Kingdom, Ms. Ese Eruotor, and Executive Director, Finance, May & Baker Nigeria Plc, Mr. Ayodeji Aboderin, at the 2026 AAF Excellence in Leadership Award ceremony held in Lagos…recently

ECOWAS Moves to Deploy Regional Counter-terrorism Force by 2027 Chinese-donated equipment leaves Nigeria for Sierra Leone as bloc prepares operational take-off

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has begun the long-delayed movement of critical military and logistics equipment from Nigeria to Sierra Leone, in what could mark the first major practical step towards the deployment of the bloc’s planned regional counter-terrorism force by the middle of 2027.

The development comes as the regional organisation races to assemble the logistics, communications and field infrastructure required to make the force operational amid escalating terrorist threats across West Africa.

A substantial consignment of equipment donated by the Chinese government to support ECOWAS peace-support operations has remained in storage in Nigeria for several years because the regional logistics facility meant to receive and deploy the materials was not ready.

But with the inauguration of the ECOWAS logistics depot at Lungi, Sierra Leone, the bloc said the equipment can now finally be moved out of Nigeria and put into operational use.

The equipment includes vehicles, cargo and water carriers, communications and commandand-control systems, audiovisual materials, camp equipment and

training-related items.

The ECOWAS Commissioner for Internal Services, Dr. Habiba Bappah and Commissioner for Political Affairs and Security, Ambassador Abdeel-Fatau Musah, who spoke during an inspection tour of ECOWAS military wares stored at the Mogadishu Barracks, Abuja, said the movement of the equipment to Sierra Leone was critical to the regional bloc’s preparations for the deployment of its counter-terrorism brigade.

Musah disclosed that ECOWAS was working towards deploying the regional counter-terrorism force by the middle of 2027,

making the movement of the long-stored equipment a matter of operational urgency.

According to him, some of the equipment would be used to establish mobile field headquarters for the force, while communications, camp and training equipment would provide essential support for troops operating in areas affected by terrorism.

“This equipment has stayed here for long time because the logistics depot was not ready.

Today, it has been launched, and it is time to move this equipment out of the cantonment,” he said.

The relocation will see the equipment transported from Nigeria to the ECOWAS logistics depot at Lungi in Sierra Leone, from where it can be distributed for regional operations and to member states requiring urgent security assistance.

The development is particularly significant for countries on the frontline of the expanding terrorist threat.

On his part, Bappah said some of the equipment would be sent to Benin Republic, which has emerged as one of the coastal West African states confronting increasing terrorist attacks and

Afenifere Raises the Alarm Over Escalation Farmers in South-west CWPPF Demands Probe, Compensation of Attacks Onaccording to sources, saying third reason is grazing on Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

are even asking for more farmlands by unscrupulous Over Assault on Pinnacle Daily Editor The pan-Yoruba socio-political they money and motorcycles. herders that have not stopped

Nume Ekeghe

The Coalition for Whistleblower Protection and Press Freedom (CWPPF) has called for an immediate investigation into the alleged assault of Pinnacle Daily Editor, Sunday Michael Ogwu, by police officers during a demolition exercise in Lugbe, Abuja.

The coalition, in a statement issued Thursday, demanded disciplinary action against the officers and members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) allegedly involved in the incident.

It also called on the Inspector General of Police, Tunji Disu, and the FCT Police Command to compensate Ogwu for his damaged mobile phone, settle medical expenses arising from the assault and issue a public apology to the journalist and Pinnacle Daily.

According to CWPPF, Ogwu was at the Lugbe Federal Housing

Estate on Wednesday, August 19, when he encountered a demolition operation involving police officers and VGN personnel. The coalition said he attempted to document the exercise with his phone after which an officer allegedly seized the device.

It said Ogwu identified himself as a journalist but was ordered to enter a police vehicle. His refusal allegedly led to an assault with an electric cable.

CWPPF said the journalist was later allowed to leave but was pursued and allegedly assaulted again after he began recording the incident and sending a distress message to his organisation.

The coalition said the attack left Ogwu injured and damaged his phone.

Reacting to the incident, CWPPF said the conduct of the officers was unacceptable, particularly because Ogwu was carrying out a journalistic function in a public space.

organisation, Afenifere, has expressed worry over the incessant attacks and kidnapping of farmers and other innocent citizens in the region.

Afenifere in a statement issued yesterday by its factional National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, lamented that many farmers now abandon their farms due to fear of abduction, ransom demands and violent attacks.

He cited the killing of a female farmer in Ondo State, the abduction of a 33-year-old poultry farmer, Mr. Ooreoluwa Osonuga in Ikenne, Ogun State, killings of four farmers in Okeogun area of Oyo State, abduction of Hon. Debo Farounbi in Ora, Osun State.

Ajayi added that abductors of the latter, Farounbi, who was kidnapped on June 9, 2026, have refused to release him despite the payment of N30 million

He recalled that in June, the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) disclosed that “persistent abductions of farmers, farm workers and agribusiness investors in Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti and Ondo states had discouraged investment, reduced agricultural productivity and endangered the livelihoods of thousands of farming families.

Afenifere spokesman revealed that during recent visits to Oke-Ogun area and northern part of Oyo and Ondo states respectively, some people lamented that they have abandoned their farms for three major reasons.

According to Ajayi, “One is fear of being kidnapped, second is the serious fall in prices that farmers could sell their proceeds as middlemen/middle-women (known as ‘Onibaranda’) are standing between them and direct purchasers while the

despite several lamentations, warnings and steps taken.”

He stressed that a prominent farmer in Ondo State, Dr. Eddy Olafeso, who owns 10 hectares of land, on which he produces cassava, cocoa, yam, plantain and other crops, lamented that he had abandoned his farmland mainly “because of insecurity”.

Mallam Shitu Kabir, President, Cowpea and Beans Farmers Association of Nigeria and Vice President of Federation of Agricultural Commodities Association stated that production of these commodities have dropped by almost 70 per cent at least in the North.

Ajayi asserted that the reports from various parts of the country are painting a picture of bleak agricultural practices and risks of hunger in the coming months if insecurity is not quickly put in check.

infiltration from the Sahel.

He said the deployment of the equipment would strengthen the ability of member states to confront terrorism while supporting ECOWAS efforts to establish a coordinated regional response.

The logistics movement also provides a practical foundation for the planned counter-terrorism brigade, whose effectiveness will depend heavily on the availability of transport, communications, commandand-control infrastructure, field accommodation and other support systems.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as IBOJIEMENMEN LORETA NYLEPTHA now wish to be known and addressed as IBOJIEMENMEN LORETA ORIYOMI. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I formerly known as MISS HAFUSAT OLAJUMOKE OJOGIWA, now wish to be known and addressed as OJO-GIWA OLAJUMOKE HAFSOH. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

I formerly known and addressed as UMUEZE PROGRESSIVE UNION now wish to be known and addressed as EZEMBA PROGRESSIVE UNION. All former documents remain valid.

Access bank and the general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as CHIOMA PRINCE UMEH now wish to be known and addressed as ADORA CHIOMA EZE. All former documents remain valid.

The general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as OKWUDIBIE PRECIOUS DUMKELE now wish to be known and addressed as OKWUDIBIE PRECIOUS DUMKELECHUKWU. All documents remain valid.JAMB, National Identification Number (NIN); University of Delta Agbor (UNIDEL), and the general public should please take note.

T H I S D AY, Th e S ATURDAY, N e w S PA P e r • AUGUST 22, 2026

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Expression

Inauguration, Not ‘Commissioning’

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EWS: “Judges (Judges’) welfare strategic investment in rule of law, Tinubu says at commissioning (inauguration et al) of Katampe quarters” Daily Trust of August 3 massacred the English language: “Desist from careless gossips, Lagos APC tells PDP” ‘Gossip’, as an informational mechanism, is non-count—but countable when it refers to purveyors: there are gossips in every workplace. Even where it is countable, it is usually singular. And this: you can have ‘latest, juicy, idle, common, office’ gossip; not ‘careless gossip’ as there is no ‘careful one’! This headline is lousy!

The Views page follows: “But he also has the right to repudiate it and seeks (seek) the protection of the laws of the land.”

“The tension in the land is palpable, sanctity of life has been violated as deaths stalk menacing (menacingly).”

Let us pause for the pluralistic damage from the above edition: “Had the amnesty committee been dealing with the right leadership of the group, damages (damage) to life and property….” Except in legalese, ‘damage’ is uncountable.

“Ado poly (sic) sets (set) for pageant show” Most critical: delete ‘show’ because of its redundancy here. A rewrite: Ado Poly set for pageant “It is their patient (patent) right” And this insight: “One of the healing material (materials)” “The reason is not far-fetched (far to seek).” ‘Far-fetched’ is strictly an adjective which means ‘extremely unlikely to be true or to happen’. Therefore, we can have something like this: The far-fetched reason he adduced was sheer makebelieve.

Next comes THE NATION ON SUNDAY of August 2 with many goofs: “APC to INEC: Conduct same day (same-day) elections”

“Residents say discovery merely tip of iceberg” Get it right: tip of the iceberg “Pass vote of no confidence on (in) NLC” “Imo polls: deaf and dumb campaigns (how?) for Uzodinma” “Soludo assures on completion of ongoing projects” Who did he assure?

“Your contributions in moving the state to greater heights has (how?) been testified to on many occasion (why?)” “…it is always a roiling (boiling) point that they are only one-third minority, dictating (calling) tunes to the two-third majority. (Editorial)” “Ugbechie’s past time (pastime)” is reading voraciously.”

Still on THE NATION ON SUNDAY: “Though she claimed to have had some relationship that should have culminated into (in) marriage….”

“It is a sin not to use your potentials (potential)” “…at (on) the occasion” “Continuing, he said that he completely does (did) not agree with the idea of….”

“I was the first person who said Obasanjo is (was) the instigator.”

“Nigerians, is it good (sauce) for the gander and bad (not sauce) for the goose?” (Full-page advertorial by Alliance for Truth in Defence of Freedom) “Access Bank unveils ‘banking in a box’ initiative” Money: banking-in-a-box initiative “The gang-up against Tinubu shall (will) fail!!!” One exclamation mark is enough! Using more than one does not make any difference—rather, it smacks of commercialese!

Leadership of August 5 exhibited incautiousness: “Upcoming Osun polls: INEC warns politicians not to overheat polity” What does this trite phrase, ‘overheat polity’ mean?

“Judges, lawyers pay last respect (respects) to Justice…”

“Navy arrests 61 over (for) oil theft in Bayelsa”

“Lagos to introduce computer based (computer-based) examination” Lastly from Leadership under review: “Niger MDGs expends N6.6bn on programmes” It is not the goals that expended the money but the office of the MDGs! “Monarch, others urge govt to restore telecom services in (to) Borno, Yobe, Adamawa” “Volunteers from the Asian-community run for cover after hearing a volley of gunshots at the scene of a siege of (to) an up-market shopping mall….”

“Niger task (tasks) financial institutions on CSR” “Nigerian players’ potential thrill (thrills) ITTF….”

THISDAY front and inside pages of August 3 did not display truth and reason on many occasions: “Borno lawmakers pass no confidence vote on (in) FG” “Mohammed, who spoke through (how?) an interpreter on (in) his hospital bed at the….”

“We waited under (in the) scorching sun” “I said I will (would) try.”

“But the media shy (media-shy) lawyer could only manage a smile….”

“Sex for role (Sex-for-role) is real in Nollywood” “…the fact that both coaches will be confronting themselves (each other) for the first time will make the game even cagier” THE NATION ON SUNDAY of August 9 follows with some diseased lines: “Discharging the order, the court said it lacks (lacked) the jurisdiction to make the orders….” “…a man history will remember for been (being) on the side of the people.”

“We join the people of Imo State and other well meaning (well-meaning) Nigerians in wishing….”

“Those breaking even in the refinery business are those producing between 100,000 to (and) 120,000 barrels or more per day.” The Sunday interview: between

10 and 11 or from 10 to 11. “…the regime of crime with many youths taking to kidnapping and all manners of vices.” Right: all manner of vices.

“Menace of under-aged voters” Get it right: underage voters. Never ‘overaged’ players or ‘matured’ politicians.

“New NASS will re-open Bakassi issue” This way: reopen. “…goes to the alter” (SATURDAY Vanguard, August 1) High-heeled: altar.

“Imo: Late arrival of materials mar election in Oguta LG” A recurring case of subject-verb disagreement: Late arrival of materials mars (not mar). It has nothing to do with ‘materials’, but “late arrival”.

“In the past, such leaders have (had) plundered the common wealth and infected the environment with the demon of greed and avarice.” (NIGERIAN Tribune, August 11) “The electorate streams (stream) out tomorrow at the beginning of a voting exercise that will ultimately ease out….”

(THISDAY, August 11) “There are two types of Persil brands in the market, apparently imported by private individuals (are there public individuals?) who thought there are (were) openings in Nigeria’s detergent market.” (VANGUARD, August 11) “Large turn-out signpost rescheduled Imo polls” Get it right: turn-out signposts.

“No other country in (on) this continent throws up the kind of absurdities that we have in this land.” (DAILY TRUST, August 8) “Such persons should be declared persona non grate (sic).” (Source: as above) At the crossroads: personae non grata.

“If he were still in power, the former governor would have been immuned (immune) to….”

The Day Osun Spoke Back

N

igeria’s 2027 election may already have received one of its most useful lessons from Osun State, provided we are sufficiently wise to learn it.

The lesson is not simply that Governor Ademola Adeleke won re-election, or that the All Progressives Congress candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, lost. It is that, even in a political environment increasingly saturated with money, intimidation, federal might, partisan machinery and the crude expectation that electoral victory can be manufactured from Abuja downwards, voters can still surprise the political establishment.

On Saturday, 15 August, 2026, Osun voters gave Adeleke 511,067 votes against Oyebamiji’s 444,815, a margin of 66,252. The African Democratic Congress candidate, Najeem Salaam, finished a distant third with 17,180 votes. The figures are important, but perhaps the larger story lies behind them: a state where political passions had been running high, where election-related violence had already claimed lives and where the contest had acquired the familiar Nigerian aroma of existential political warfare; nevertheless produced a result that, at least for now, has demonstrated the stubborn capacity of voters to frustrate expectations.

What, then, should the defeated opposition machinery learn? Perhaps the first lesson is that federal presence is not the same thing as electoral ownership. The APC went into Osun with considerable institutional weight and political reach. Yet, political machinery, however formidable, cannot permanently substitute for the voters themselves. A party may command impressive structures, deploy influential personalities, assemble enormous crowds and enjoy the confidence of powerful political actors; but, ultimately, the voter remains the person holding the ballot.

The Osun result should therefore be studied carefully by every political party preparing for 2027. Voters are not necessarily as predictable

as political strategists imagine. They can listen to the most powerful campaigners, collect whatever inducements are offered, smile for the cameras, dance at rallies and still go into the privacy of the polling booth to make another decision. Nigerian politicians have long treated the electorate as an easily manipulated market.

Osun suggests that the market may occasionally have a mind of its own.

And what should Adeleke learn from the result? Gratitude, certainly. Humility, preferably.

And perhaps the most difficult lesson of all: that electoral affection is not a lifetime tenancy agreement. The voters have given him another mandate, but they have also given him a four-year examination paper. The fact that a large majority of participating voters stood with him should not be interpreted as a licence for complacency, extravagance or the sort of political self-adulation that eventually convinces governments that every criticism is sponsored by enemies.

Adeleke’s victory is also a reminder that personality matters in politics. His unconventional public persona, easy relationship with popular culture and obvious ability to connect with sections of the working-class and agrarian population may have helped create an emotional bond that conventional political arithmetic cannot fully explain. But affection is a fragile currency. The dancing governor must also remain the working governor. The entertainer must not eclipse the administrator. The popular man must still deliver the unpopular necessities of governance.

Then comes the more uncomfortable question: what did the voters themselves learn? Hopefully, they learnt that courage is possible. Reports preceding the election documented a troubling pattern of violence, with the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development’s tracker recording at least 34 election-related violent incidents and 18 deaths since May. That background makes the conduct of voters who still turned out to exercise their franchise all the more significant.

For decades, Nigerians have complained about political thuggery, ballot snatching, intimidation,

vote buying and the weaponisation of poverty.

Yet we sometimes behave as though these evils are unavoidable natural disasters rather than practices sustained by our own participation.

We complain bitterly about bad politicians, then cheer when they arrive with envelopes.

We denounce corruption, then ask what is in it for us. We condemn electoral manipulation, yet some voters are prepared to sell the very instrument with which they could punish it.

Osun offers another possibility: that voters can accept inducements without surrendering their conscience, reject intimidation without surrendering their franchise, and recognise that the small money received on election day may be a pathetic down-payment on four years of poor governance. A N10,000 gift from a politician who subsequently presides over billions of public funds is not empowerment. It is an unusually cheap purchase of public silence.

There is another lesson for 2027: voters must stop regarding elections as tribal, religious or partisan wars in which the candidate’s victory becomes more important than the citizen’s welfare.

The politician will return to Abuja, Osogbo, Benin, Owerri, Kaduna, Lagos or wherever his or her political headquarters happens to be. The voter remains behind to confront the roads, schools, hospitals, electricity, employment, insecurity and rising cost of living.

The electoral umpire, too, should be studying Osun. INEC must understand that every successful election is not merely an event completed; it is an investment in public confidence. The upload of polling-unit results to the IReV portal was an important component of transparency, but electoral technology must work predictably, promptly and credibly, not become another source of anxiety. During the Osun exercise, thousands of results were uploaded as counting progressed, but any delay or technical uncertainty can quickly become ammunition for suspicion in an already distrustful environment.

Security agencies have an even larger lesson.

Their responsibility is not to help any party

win; it is to help citizens vote without fear. The reported violence surrounding the election should not be filed away as another Nigerian electoral anecdote. Every death, assault or intimidation is an attack on democracy itself. Political actors who recruit thugs and manufacture fear must be identified, prosecuted and, where guilt is established, punished. Otherwise, we will continue to invite citizens to vote while simultaneously warning them that voting may be hazardous to their health.

But perhaps the most important Osun lesson belongs to the rest of Nigeria. Can the courage displayed by many Osun voters travel beyond the state’s boundaries? Can it reach Ekiti, Lagos, Kano, Rivers, Kaduna, Enugu and every other corner of Nigeria before 2027? Can voters finally understand that the ballot is not a souvenir from politicians but their most consequential instrument of accountability?

We should not romanticise Osun. One election cannot suddenly cure Nigeria’s electoral maladies.

The violence, inducements, intimidation and partisan calculations that preceded it remain real. Nor should Adeleke’s victory be interpreted as proof that every aspect of the election was perfect. The APC candidate has said he respects the process while supporting his party’s review of the outcome, which is a legitimate avenue in a democracy.

Still, something encouraging happened in Osun. Voters demonstrated that political power, despite all its intimidating machinery, can ultimately encounter something more stubborn: the independent judgement of citizens. That is the lesson politicians should fear most. And the lesson voters should cherish most.

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T H I S D AY, Th e S ATURDAY, N e w S PA P e r • AUGUST 22, 2026

Personal Finance • with Omolabake Fasogbon • 08155131874

How to Make Your Savings Work for You Omolabake Fasogbon

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he Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has urged commercial banks to expand credit creation, following the N4.65 trillion raised in the just concluded recapitalisation exercise.

Specifically, the apex bank instructed lenders to channel funds into productive sectors of the economy in ways that translate into job creation, improved productivity and foreign exchange earnings.

With this directive, a new dawn may be emerging for credit-worthy individuals and businesses long constrained by access to credit.

Analysts, including Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) member, Prof. Murtala Sabo Sagagi, averred that stronger bank capital should translate into lower lending rates and more affordable loans for households and businesses.

Beyond loan relief, the recapitalisation exercise, described as the most significant capital raise in Nigerian banking history offered some reassurance to depositors who can expect a more resilient financial system, better primed to support economic growth and withstand domestic and external shocks.

Broadly, this exercise has implications on both savers and borrowers, and understanding them is crucial for shaping financial decisions, especially for the investment-conscious.

For borrowers, the expectation is accessible and affordable loans. However, concerns remain that banks seeking to recover cost of recapitalisation may be tempted to lend even at higher rates, or favour high-net-worth individuals and large corporations over productive sectors.

Also noteworthy is the MPC’s decision to retain the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) at 26.5 percent.

The dilemma for savers is reflected in the view of President, Capital Market Academics of Nigeria (CMAN), Uche Uwaleke that many banks may not need to raise additional capital,

having significantly strengthened their financial position.

The implication, according to economist Leonardo Gambacorta is that poorly capitalized banks tend to suppress deposit rates more than well-capitalised ones.

The MPC’s decision to retain the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) at 45 percent also leaves savers in a tight corner.

Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise,Muda Yusuf demystifies this.

“If a bank receives a N600 million deposit, about N45 million must be set aside as Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR). The bank earns no return on those funds, yet it still pays interest on the

entire deposit. Since it cannot use the CRR portion for lending or other business activities, offering very high deposit rates becomes a disincentive.”

Current environment therefore calls for yield-seeking savers to be more proactive by aligning their investments with prevailing market conditions.

Ultimately, financial advisers recommend diversifying investment portfolios according to financial goals, cash-flow needs and risk tolerance.

For instance, individuals seeking to preserve capital while earning returns above ordinary savings, the treasury bills, federal government savings bonds and money market mutual funds are considered suitable alternatives, depending

on risk appetite.

Beyond savings and fixed deposits, Yusuf pointed to a wider range of investment opportunities, including stock market, real estate, and investment products offered by finance companies and asset managers as viable alternatives capable of delivering stronger returns.

“Many investors have recorded substantial gains in the stock market this year, with Nigeria ranking among the world’s best-performing markets,” he said.

He added that entrepreneurship also presents opportunities in sectors such as retail, ICT and the creative industry, adding that those who prefer not to run businesses can monetise their professional skills.

Market News

Guinness Posts N25.3bn Profit as Debt Plummets in H1 2026

Stories by Omolabake Fasogbon

Guinness Nigeria Plc has cut its net debt nearly in half while growing its half-year (H1) profit after tax by 53 percent to N25.3 billion. The firm disclosed that achievement was driven by operational efficiencies and margin expansion, even amid inflation and currency volatility.

During its H1 2026 investors and analysts call, the company reported approximately N265 billion in revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2026. Net sales value grew by nearly 12 percent, while operating profit rose 15 percent.

Likewise, its gross profit and operating margins settled at approximately 37 percent and 16 percent, respectively.

A highlight of the company’s performance was the reduction in net debt from about N37 billion to N19 billion, while shareholders’ equity rose from N43.3 billion to N64.2 billion.

Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Guinness Nigeria, Girish Sharma said the company had made significant progress in strengthening its financial position while maintaining investment in the business.

“The days of operating with a weak balance sheet are behind us. Today, we are in a much

stronger position to pursue growth, improve returns and create sustainable value for our shareholders and other stakeholders,” he said.

Alongside debt reduction, the company said it deployed roughly N20 billion in capital expenditure toward manufacturing capacity, infrastructure, and brand expansion. It also distributed about N20 billion in dividend payouts to shareholders.

Guinness attributed its upward path to targeted portfolio extensions, including new 440ml pack formats for Guinness FES and Guinness Smooth, wider distribution of Malta Guinness, PET packaging for Orijin, and continued traction in ready-to-drink

options under Smirnoff Ice. It explained it would continue to leverage its national distribution network, comprising 390 key distributors, breweries in Lagos and Benin, as well as distribution and logistics infrastructure across the country.

“Our focus is not simply on growing bigger, but on building a stronger, more efficient and more sustainable business. With a healthier balance sheet, strong brands, an extensive route to market and continued investment behind our growth priorities, we are better positioned to navigate the operating environment and capture the opportunities ahead,” declared Sharma.

Author Ties Africa’s Economic Progress to Right Leadership Public sector professional and author, Daniel Obah has linked Africa’s long-term economic and social progress to quality of its leadership and values of citizens.

Obah said sustainable regional development would be not only on strong public institutions, but personal responsibility, integrity and ethical citizenship.

He argued that the quality of a society is shaped not only by what it builds, but by the character of those entrusted with what

has been built.

Obah addressing economic situation in Lagos recently noted, “Policies may be sound, and public systems may be well designed, but people will still decide whether rules are respected, public resources are protected and positions of authority are used for service or personal gain”.

Obah who has authored several publications around leadership including ‘The Key to a Great Africa, Ade, Obi and Amina: A

Value Reorientation Story, and Think and Live (Wisdom Capsules) noted that his literary work serves as the foundation for broader institutional reform.

“Each book speaks to a different audience, but they are connected by one conviction: Africa’s future will depend not only on the quality of its leadership and public systems, but also on the character of the people who operate within them,” he said.

Beyond publishing, the author operates a

non-profit organization Value Reorientation and Developmental Initiative Africa (VARDIAFRICA) which he said works to transfer principles in his books to schools, professional sectors, and local communities with a key focus on the youth.

“Young people sit at the centre of this effort because the attitude they develop today will influence the kind of leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs and citizens they become tomorrow.

Secure Infrastructure, Precursor to Closing Digital Divide, Says Expert Quomodo Systems Africa has stressed the need for stronger investment in secure digital infrastructure to sustain efforts in bridging digital divide in the country.

Chief Financial Officer and Head of Operations of the company, Mrs. Olufunke Tonye-Preghafi, maintained that expanding internet access alone without committing to adequate security will jeopardise drive for a resilient digital economy.

Tonye-Preghafi while speaking at the Nigeria Information Technology Reporters Association (NITRA) Innovative and Scientific Conference in

Lagos, recently, asserted that digital inclusion drive requires robust cybersecurity systems and resilient technology infrastructure.

The conference brought together policymakers, industry stakeholders and tech journalists to explore strategies for expanding digital access in the country under the theme: “Bridging Nigeria’s Digital Divide with Scientific Innovation”.

Tonye-Preghafi noted that oftentimes, discussions on digital divide focus on connectivity, with insufficient attention to the systems that keep digital services running.

“When we talk about digital divide, the conversation often centres on connectivity. But behind every digital service is a secure network, resilient infrastructure, integrated enterprise systems and advanced cyber protection. That is where Quomodo Systems comes in,” she said.

She stated further that safety and reliability of digital financial services, communication platforms and other solutions depend largely on continuous monitoring and protection against cyber threats.

She said Quomodo Systems operates in this space, providing cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure

and enterprise solutions to financial institutions, telecommunications firms and others within Africa.

She disclosed that the country’s drive for digital transformation will require regulators to embrace responsible technology adoption.

“As Nigeria accelerates its digital economy, our greatest challenge is not the speed of adopting technology, but making sure that we adopt it securely, responsibly and sustainably. The organisations that will lead tomorrow are not those that adopt technology; but those that innovate securely, govern wisely and build resilience by design,” she said.

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T H I S D AY, Th e S ATURDAY, N e w S PA P e r • AUGUST 22, 2026

SHOWBIZ

Ferdinand Ekechukwu- 08035011394 Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

Detty December Fest Returns, Promises Best of African Cultural Experience Stories by Ferdinand Ekechukwu

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ecember in Lagos is traditionally one of the busiest and most energetic periods of the year, as residents, diaspora visitors, tourists and entertainers converge on the city. Detty December Fest, one of Africa’s fastest growing live music festivals, is looking to build on that atmosphere by creating a festival experience that extends beyond music, following a debut edition that drew more than 40,000 festival goers.

The much-anticipated 2026 Detty December Fest is scheduled to run from 18th to 30th December, bringing together

music, nightlife, fashion, food, cultural experiences across the city.

Wizkid is billed to open the show on Day 1 - Friday 18th December, tagged the Grand Opening Concert.

Organisers describe the upcoming edition as a 13-day nonstop fiesta featuring multiple stage and more than 300 performers.

According to the festival handlers, Wizkid’s combination of Afrobeats classics, international collaborations and fan favourites gives the opening night the potential to attract a massive crowd. Known for his global influence and catalogue of Afrobeats anthems, the Grammy-winning singer is expected to deliver a headline performance that sets the tone for the festival’s run.

More so, Detty December Fest’s 2026 programme is being presented as more than a series of concerts. It plans to include a food, shopping area, family-focused seasonal attractions, and a youth-focused space known as Gen Z Republik. The festival returns at a time when the event has evolved into one of the continent’s most significant cultural and economic moments.

In its first year, Detty December Fest established itself as one of the defining moments of Lagos’ festive calendar and new destinations for Africa’s live entertainment experiences. The landmark inaugural edition brought together global and African music stars such as Busta Rhymes, Gunna, Tiwa Savage, Juma Jux, Diamond Platnumz, Wande Coal, Phyno, Fave, Young Jonn, Ice Prince and more.

Wizkid

Ayra Starr’s ‘Starrgirl’ Sets Trend, Records Biggest Opening-day Album

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Ayra Starr

ince the release of ‘Starrgirl’, Ayra Starr‘s third full-length studio album, the two-times Grammy-nominated, three-times MOBO award-winning artiste has recorded an impressive 1.82 million streams on its first full day on Spotify Nigeria, marking another major milestone for the Nigerian Afrobeats star.

In addition, setting an inspiring fashion trend that has received applause from fans and celebrities alike.

Released on August 14, 2026, the album feat makes ‘Starrgirl’ the biggest opening-day album by a female artist on Spotify Nigeria, surpassing Ayra Starr’s own ‘The Year I Turned 21,’ which opened with 1.27 million streams.

The success means Starr now holds the top two spots for the biggest opening-day streams by a female artist on the platform. Starrgirl, the follow-up to the singer’s ‘The Year I Turned 21’ album, is a collection of 16 tracks.

Starr expanded her sound on the project, bringing in more dance and R&B notes. With “Starrgirl,” Ayra Starr continues to raise the bar for female Afrobeats artists while adding another major achievement to her growing career.

Starr Girl (stylised as Starrgirl) was released through Mavin and Republic Records. The album features guest appearances from Kwn, Danny Ocean, Rema, Theodora, Leon Thomas, Wizkid and Zayn.

Ayra collaborated with various producers on the album, including Alissia, Johnny Drille, Ilya, Stefan Johnson, Jordan K., London, Mamii, Ragee, and Shizzi, among others.

The project is anchored by her recent hit singles, “Where Do We Go” and “Tornado.” “I’m so proud of the woman I’ve allowed myself to become through the making of this album and every version of me that had to exist to get here,” Starr wrote on Instagram on release week. Following the release, the singer got fans and many Nigerian

girlies standing in solidarity with the creativity of her album cover, rocking the iconic Nigerian gele in purple, with a simple dress.

The Afro-fusion-inspired look quickly caught the attention of her fans, which began recreating the style in their own unique ways. One noted that “What made the trend more interesting was that it was not limited to women alone. Men, including label boss Don Jazzy, and others, also shared pictures of themselves hilariously joining the purple gele trend to drum up support for the singer.

“Interestingly, this is not the first time the singer has donned a gele in that manner. She had earlier been spotted rocking a pink gele to the club, showing that the traditional headpiece has become part of her fashion expression. With the album attracting attention and her purple gele look becoming a fan favourite, Ayra Starr may have found another way to make her mark beyond music.”

Angelique Kidjo Makes HistoryWith HollywoodWalk of Fame Star

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eninese music icon Angélique Kidjo has become the first Black African to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The five-time Grammy-winning singer was honored at a ceremony in Los Angeles, attended by film stars and leading figures from the music industry, including Academy Award-nominated actor Willem Dafoe, Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr., as guest speakers.

The 66-year-old Kidjo received the honour after more than four decades in music and releasing 16 albums, at the ceremony where she received the 2,854th star in the Recording category. She

joins Charlize Theron as one of the few Africans on the Walk of Fame. A longtime activist, Kidjo is also a UNICEF and Oxfam ambassador and runs the Batonga Foundation to support girls’ education in Africa.

Speaking during the ceremony, Kidjo described the recognition as a milestone not only for herself but for African music and artists around the world.

“We Africans don’t know what we’ve given to the world, what we continue giving to the world; without us there’s no music possible [on] this planet.” The singer also expressed hope that her achievement would create opportunities for other African artistes.

“It’s not just my star, it’s our star,” she said,

while also noting that although she may be the first, she would not be the last. Kidjo’s Hollywood Walk of Fame honour follows her selection as one of the 35 members of the Class of 2026. The class also includes Miley Cyrus, Timothée Chalamet, Demi Moore, Shaquille O’Neal, Josh Groban and Bone Thugs-N-Harmony.

The milestone places Kidjo’s name among Hollywood’s most celebrated figures while marking a significant moment for African music on one of the world’s most recognisable entertainment landmarks. Born on 14 July 1960, in Ouidah, Benin, then known as Dahomey, Kidjo grew up surrounded by music before moving to Paris in 1983 amid political unrest in her home country.

Angelique Kidjo

Teniola Aladese Leads Cast of Mary Chinda: From Healing Young ‘We Must Begin Again, Together’ Women to Paying Their School Fees

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head of its wider release, short film “We Must Begin Again, Together” is scheduled to make its world premiere at the 23rd Afrika Film Festival Köln in Germany, running from 17 to 27 September 2026. Alongside the lead actress, Teniola Aladese, the production features Patrick Diabuah, Yetunde Oduwole, Sunday Joy, Kadejo Sogo and Rose Odika.

Directed by Adé Sultan Sangodoyin and produced

by Melissa Adeyemo, the official teaser released recently introduces a gripping drama, the film tracks a woman’s world upending after uncovering a devastating double betrayal in a conservative town.

At the heart of the short is a cheating spouse.

“Imagine discovering that your spouse is having an affair, only to find out the other person is your own sibling. That is the exact nightmare AMVCA award winning actress, Teniola Aladese’s character faces in the the upcoming short film, We Must Begin Again, Together,” a post teased.

The film explores the quiet, intense fallout of a double betrayal within a conservative town. When

a woman’s world is upended by the ultimate family secret, she is forced to navigate a difficult path where keeping quiet means survival, but staying the same is impossible.

Teniola Aladese

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Journalist, Mary Chinda, at a recent event, turned her personal journey of pain and healing into a growing mission to support young women through mentorship, education and empowerment.

At the event, Single Ladies Conference in Enugu, Chinda brought together young women to confront the often-hidden scars of sexual abuse, heartbreak, grief, rejection, poverty and other painful experiences, while also addressing the growing dangers of substance abuse.

The conference, themed, “Inner Healing: Broken Yet Beautiful,” focused on helping women understand that their painful experiences do not have to define their future. The event also featured discussions on drug abuse, with advocate David Folaranmi warning young women against using alcohol and drugs as a way of escaping emotional pain. But for Chinda, healing must go beyond conversations.

As part of her StraightenedOut Woman Outreach, the AriseTV correspondent has begun putting practical support behind her advocacy by paying

the school fees of female university students who may otherwise struggle to remain in school. Chinda recently paid the fees of four female university students in Enugu, bringing to six the number of female students she has personally supported with school fees this year, including two students of the University of Nigeria, UNN. Chinda says the initiative is driven by her belief that education can give young women alternatives to some of the vulnerabilities created by poverty and financial hardship. She is now targeting at least 50 female students annually, starting with 20 and gradually expanding the programme across Nigeria as funding becomes available.

The initiative is currently largely financed from her personal income and savings from her work as a journalist. The move reflects a broader philosophy behind her work: that emotional healing, education and economic empowerment must go together. At the Enugu conference, participants were encouraged to confront their experiences rather than allow trauma to determine their identity, while speakers also highlighted the dangers of peer pressure, addiction and destructive coping mechanisms.

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T H I S D AY, Th e S ATURDAY, N e w S PA P e r • AUGUST 22, 2026

POLITICS

Peter Agada: I’m Not Desperate for Office, Only Responding to Nigeria’s Urgency As the Young Progressives Party conducted its final substitution primary for the 2027 presidential election yesterday, architect, entrepreneur and former Labour Party presidential aspirant, Peter Agada, emerged as the party’s presidential candidate. In this interview, Agada explains his decision to join the YPP, rejects coalitions without ideological compatibility, and outlines his vision of lean governance, reduced borrowing, ‘ward capitalism’ and broader economic inclusion. Chuks Okocha brings the excerpts:

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hat challenges have you faced ahead of the substitution primary in the YPP? The Young Progressives Party (YPP) is a veritable ideology-driven political party, which has been registered for years. It has an ideologically brilliant and potent constitution vital to the rescue of Nigeria from its chronic leadership failures of many years. That is very important for me. From the leadership I have interacted with —the National Chairman, Bishop Amakiri; the National Secretary; the Deputy National Chairman, Amb. Dr. Nana Aisha Mahmoud, and members of the National Working Committee — I have encountered people who, in my assessment, genuinely want to build their party and build this nation. When you have a leadership that is concerned about the quality of people coming into a political party and what they intend to offer the country, you are already taking the necessary steps towards nation-building. They don’t simply ask what you have, financially speaking. They want to know: Who are you? What do you represent?

What do you intend to do for Nigeria? What impressed me particularly is the premium the party leadership places on ideas and values.

I presented myself and my programme. I explained what I believe Nigeria requires and the reforms I intend to pursue. What became evident was that there was substantial compatibility between my programme and the philosophy of the YPP. It fitted almost like a jigsaw puzzle.

My political ideology filled a space within what the party itself was seeking in a presidential candidate. Since then, several support groups and individuals have begun identifying with the programme. Apolitical party must have the capacity to separate serious nation-builders from people who merely want a platform.

Several of the people who played key roles in founding theYPP eventually left the party after their political ambitions diverged from its direction. Given your own political ambitions, what assurance do Nigerians have that you would not eventually take the same path?

The answer is a categorical no. I don’t enter a political party without first interrogating its constitution, manifesto and ideological direction. When I was in the Labour Party, one of the things that kept me there was the philosophy contained in its constitution. I find it extremely difficult to operate politically where there is no ideology. I listen carefully to thinkers discussing Africa’s development, sovereignty and economic future. I recently listened again to Professor Jeffrey Sachs, and I also encountered Professor P.L.O. Lumumba. There is a wider conversation taking place about the awakening of Africa and how this continent can finally assume its rightful position in the community of nations. That conversation resonates strongly with me. If a political party has no ideological connection with these questions —production, sovereignty, development, economic inclusion and Africa’s place in the world — I cannot be found in such space. That ideological connection is something I found, and found abundantly in the YPP. You have repeatedly criticised Nigeria’s growing reliance on foreign borrowing.

What fundamentally informs your position, and what concerns do you have about the country’s current borrowing strategy?

My position is straightforward. Nigeria is enormously endowed. We must interrogate why a country blessed with our population, natural resources, entrepreneurial capacity, land,

proposing. My politics is driven fundamentally by ideology.

What is the difference between you and politicians who move from one party to another simply to obtain office?

The difference is desperation for office. I would love to serve as President because the Presidency provides an extraordinary opportunity to transform Nigeria on a large scale.

But I do not need the office at all costs. If the Nigerian people believe in my programme and give me the opportunity to serve, I will serve with everything I have. But if circumstances require me to continue building people, businesses, institutions and a political movement outside the Presidency, I am prepared to do that too. That is why I can say clearly that if I do not become President in 2027, I am prepared to remain in the YPP and continue building.

This project cannot be reduced to one election.

Politics requires sacrifice. Building an institution when immediate electoral success is uncertain requires even greater sacrifice. I am prepared to build for the long term.

•Agada minerals and human capital should remain structurally dependent on external borrowing for development as Nigeria is and choking from. This is not an argument that every form of borrowing is inherently evil. The fundamental questions are: What are we borrowing for? Under what conditions? In what currency? What is the return on that borrowing? Are we borrowing because we have continuously refused to eliminate waste and properly mobilise our domestic resources? I recently shared Professor Jeffrey Sachs’ remarks concerning development financing with the Deputy National Chairman of YPP, Amb. Dr. NanaAisha Mahmoud. Her response reinforced the conversation we have been having — that Nigeria must interrogate external financing, currency exposure and dependency much more seriously. That is precisely the conversation I want Nigerians to have. I have developed businesses and executed major projects. Those experiences have taught me that resources must be managed carefully and deployed productively. Nigeria cannot continue borrowing while simultaneously maintaining enormous leakages and an excessively expensive structure of government.

Before asking the next generation to repay additional debts, we should first ask ourselves: Have we stopped stealing? Have we eliminated waste? Have we reduced unnecessary government expenditure? Have we properly mobilised our domestic resources? Are borrowed funds going into productive assets capable of generating economic returns? These questions must come first.

made calculations regarding what could potentially be saved under a comprehensive lean-government programme within our first 100 days. The exact figures should ultimately be subjected to proper fiscal verification, but the underlying principle remains: government must cost less so that development can receive more. The Presidency itself must demonstrate that sacrifice. Leadership cannot ask Nigerians to tighten their belts while government loosens its own.

You have also criticised the cost of maintaining government institutions, including the Presidential Villa?

Absolutely. The larger argument is about the cost of governance. Nigeria cannot demand sacrifice from citizens while political leadership continues operating an excessively expensive government. My administration would pursue what I call lean governance. We should examine ministries, departments and agencies with overlapping responsibilities. Where institutions can responsibly be consolidated without undermining essential services, we should consolidate them. We must reduce administrative waste and redirect resources towards productive economic activity. I have

Does that mean you have completely abandoned the Labour Party’s philosophy?

No. There is a distinction between an institution’s founding philosophy and what may happen to that institution politically at a particular time in the life of that institution. I remain deeply, indeed emphatically committed to the dignity of labour, working people, economic inclusion and social justice. I believe Nigeria must eventually recover the authentic values around which organised labour and progressive politics were historically constructed. My disagreement was not with Nigerian workers. My concern was with whether the political structure available to me could presently carry the programme I was

So, ideology was central to your decision to join the YPP? Absolutely. I was not merely looking for another political platform. I was looking for a political organisation whose philosophy could accommodate my broader vision of Nigeria’s development and Africa’s advancement. My worldview contains a strong Pan-African dimension. Nigeria cannot develop sustainably in isolation from Africa. If Nigeria becomes prosperous while much of its immediate environment remains trapped in poverty, instability and underdevelopment, eventually those pressures will affect Nigeria. Therefore, our national development must also contribute to a stronger Africa. We need discipline. We need production. We need to eliminate waste. We need to strengthen our institutions. And above all, we need political parties organised around ideas rather than personalities. Nigeria has suffered because ideology has gradually disappeared from our politics. We must rebuild it.

Why enter the presidential race now rather than wait until 2031?

Because Nigeria’s problems will not wait. I have a thriving professional career. My business has opportunities for international expansion, including in the United Kingdom. I could have concentrated exclusively on expanding my business internationally. But I began asking myself difficult questions.

What happens to Nigeria’s younger generation between now and 2031? What happens to millions of children currently outside the formal education system?

What happens to unemployment? What happens to insecurity? What happens to the millions of young Nigerians who feel disconnected from the economy and political system? Will they still believe in Nigeria four or five years from now?

Those questions disturb me. I see myself as a bridge between an older political generation and the younger generation now emerging. I have interacted with important figures from the older generation and also understand the frustrations and aspirations of younger Nigerians. Young Nigerians constitute an enormous demographic force, yet many feel economically and politically marginalised. That is one of the reasons I entered the race. I am not desperate for office. I am responding to the urgency of Nigeria’s situation.

Let’s talk about coalition politics and 2027.

Is there a possibility of the YPP joining a coalition ahead of the 2027 elections?

My first question would be: a coalition around what? Coalition for coalition’s sake does not solve Nigeria’s problems. A coalition cannot simply be a gathering of politicians whose only common objective is removing another from office. What happens the morning after victory? What economic philosophy governs?

What happens to education? What happens to healthcare? What happens to production?

What happens to the wards? What happens to young people? What happens to workers? What happens to our fiscal structure? Those questions must be answered. I describe myself broadly as a centre-to-left political thinker. I believe strongly in enterprise, investment and markets, but I also believe the economy must protect citizens and deliberately expand economic opportunity.

I cannot enter a coalition whose philosophy contradicts those fundamentals.

See concluded part on www. thisdaylive.com

T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R • A U G U S T 22, 2026

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MEMORABLE MILESTONES

Debbie Odutayo: From Contract Staff to Broadcast Industry Leader

Debbie Odutayo, a seasoned practitioner in the broadcast industry, reflects on her illustrious career spanning close to four decades. She recounts exciting moments, events, and highlights of her remarkable career and life’s journey. Ferdinand Ekechukwu brings the excerpts:

1. My series, Debbie’s Salon: Creating and Producing Debbie’s Salon was an opportunity to give back to the industry that has given me so much. It offered me a chance to reassess my legacy, reflect on my journey, and leave something meaningful behind.

With this long-running series as my retirement project, I want the story of Debbie’s Salon to resonate with everyone who watches it, and to reflect on their own lives.

member and President of the Board of Trustees of EMCOAN, a body I creditably served two terms as president for four years, I was elected unopposed and re-elected again the second term unopposed.

6. Running Royal Roots Communication Network with my husband remains memorable:

Running a business for 30 years is a milestone. I have been working and earning my own money for the past 36 years of my life. From a one bedroom to a shop to a flat now an empire all the glory be to God.

2. My First Job: It was in NTA in 1986. I was a contract staff. And every time I went back to work from school, each producer will want me to work on their project because I was like a tomboy. And I was able to pay attention to details so they would want me to do their continuity and sit down in the postproduction. It was just an experience looking up to those people. It was quite encouraging because we had more men than women.

7. Being commissioned by Unilever to Produce their 1st ever cooking show (KTQ) Knorr Taste Quest for 5 seasons Pan Nigeria and Africa Magic’s Unscripted and Dividends - The Series has been a humbling experience when organisations call and hand you projects, you need to bring your A game. That means, you are valued and trusted.

8. The feeling, experience looking at those impacted, mentored. I go for premieres of people

3. Mentored and to have worked with veterans: I was privileged to work with a lot of

that I have held their hands that have asked my opinion or have just had a chat on the job and it works out well for them. And I go there and my head is swollen with gratitude and joy every time. Even when I’m celebrating my birthday, I still get overwhelmed by people just trying to appreciate. Each of these moments truly counts, mirrors fulfillment and reflect success.

producers then like the late Oga Sadiq Daba; the late Oga Enebeli Elebuwa; His Highness Alhaji Danladi Bako; Oga Jimmy Atte, even late Oga CY Okonkwo, the famous documentary producer. They were all brother figures, uncles, senior brothers, father figure and all that. They would always want me to be on their projects because I had an eye for details and one of the best Continuity/Script Supervisors in those days of Telemovies.

4. As Head Judge, Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award (AMVCA): Being passionate about the industry, it was an experience I felt humbled. It resonated with my belief that everything about this industry grows better. For me it’s still my biggest and most proud assignment I have been given. First to be nominated amongst thousands of women in Nigeria at the inception of the AMVCA to be the only female Nigerian to be taken to South Africa all expenses paid and to be trained and put in that process with Uncle Femi Odugbemi and ever since then being call upon to serve.

9. Blessed to have three wonderfully amazing boys and being a grandma all thanks to God for

‘Omugwo’ has been wholesome. Each occasion provided its own excitement, feeling that have stayed with me the most.

10. Eko Star Film and TV Awards 2024, Seven Wonder Woman Award Winners 2026:

Odutayo

5. Serving twice as the first female President of Electronic Media Content Owners Association of Nigeria (EMCOAN): As a

Poco Lee’s Rape Allegations Spark Social Media Storm Stories by Tosin Clegg

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he social media space was still digesting the news of the arrest of luxury lifestyle entrepreneur, Afolabi Kazeem Michael, popularly known as KC Luxury, when news of Poco

St. Ange

Lee’s absence from social media gained traction. What started as an enquiry into why he was not active online turned into a roller coaster of rape allegations against him.

Poco Lee is known as a dance artist whose choreographic works have earned him a place in the entertainment industry, drawing attention to his distinct artistry and the complementary value it brings to those he works with. Over the years, working with different artistes, brands, events, concerts and projects has further expanded his profile in the industry, as he delivered electrifying performances across Nigeria, Africa, Europe and the United States.

Beyond performance, Poco Lee has continued to demonstrate the power of dance as a storytelling and entertainment tool, bringing movement, energy and character to every stage he occupies.

But the unfortunate turn of events following the rape allegations has drawn massive negative attention to his character and the brand he has built over the years. The allegations have generated reactions across social media.

Just as the news spread, social media user Msjorjiabg disclosed that she had a forced sexual encounter with the entertainer. In a post she shared, she recounted: “Please report ASSAULT! I MADE THE WORST MISTAKE by not reporting it. This

girl wouldn’t have been raped if I reported it! Please someone send this to the girl and tell her I am sorry!”

Shortly after her post, she began sharing comments from other women who alleged that the entertainer had also had encounters with them.

What has further given the story a stronger hold is that, across all his social media platforms, his last posts were about four to five days ago. For those who follow him on any platform, he is an extremely active user and typically makes several posts daily, especially on Snapchat Stories. As such, several days without any appearance on his Stories or status have worried many people and continued to fuel speculation surrounding the allegations.

But in the middle of it all, some notable names in the entertainment industry have spoken out, saying they believe there may be foul play in the trending story concerning the alleged UK incident. They have stood their ground, insisting that the dancer would not have committed such an act.

For now, Poco Lee has not been convicted of any offence in connection with the allegations. The claims circulating online should therefore be treated as allegations pending the outcome of any investigation or legal proceedings.

Being recognised specially and bestowed with the Eko Star and Film Award in honour of the international women’s month 2024. And also being honoured among seven outstanding women recognised in celebration of excellence across key sectors for leadership, innovation, and sustained impact in 2026. The awards recognitions came at different, but momentous occasions, tells to a large extent how much one is being appreciated not only for excelling in their fields but also expanding pathways for others.

SimiTakes Music Beyond the Boom with SYMSWave Speaker

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OL and Nigerian singer Simi have collaborated to create the SYMS Wave Speaker, which isn’t just a speaker but more of a statement.

The speaker is a blend of music, culture, and technology, made to elevate your everyday sound experience. What leads the sales experience is the limited-edition catch, and with just a specified number produced, once purchasing is missed, it’s missed.

Tuned by Simi, it was created with the special touch of Simi’s sound engineering, crafted to suit your style and help you feel the true Naija vibe. As a true Simi Army member, you would feel the connection as if she were right there with you, with the personalised voice prompt by Simi.

In a recent post, Simi noted: “I’m not, but it feels like I’m gatekeeping. So here I am. I was listening to music on my SYMS Wave Speaker today, and it just reminded me why I even did this. Most affordable speakers want to give you only the boom.

The rumble. The bass. Even if it’s distorted. Even if you can’t hear the words. Even when you’re just trying to chill with a soft song and a glass of wine.

“I, on the other hand, want to give you a feeling. An experience.

I love it when I listen to music

Simi and it’s CRISP. The voice. The piano. The percussion.

The guitar. The drums. I don’t want to bombard you. I want to love you. A wise man once said, ‘Baby, let me love.’

“Whatever genre you’re listening to, you deserve to enjoy it. I don’t want you to listen to Adele, trying to be in your feelings, crying about love and heartbreak, but all you hear is BOOOOOOM. I want the music to make sweet, sweet love to your ears (excuse the drama). I want the whole song to shine. I want that for you. You deserve the Vibe, the Smooth, the Sweet, the Blend, the Rhythm. AND the Boom — and that’s what I’m serving. Please let me take care of you. It’s possible, and without breaking the bank too. Get SYMS Wave Speaker neeeowww!!”

T H I S D AY, T h e sat u r day N e w s pa p e r • AUGUST 22, 2026

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PEople

Emmanuel Ajufo’s Life of Reinvention: From Billboard Erection to the Bar

For more than three decades, Emmanuel Ajufo has built a career at the intersection of advertising, entrepreneurship and law. From transforming outdoor advertising to confronting regulatory barriers and championing industry professionalism,theManagingDirectorofOpportunity-To-SeeandTenaxLegalServiceshasconsistentlychallenged convention. Now, he is thinking beyond success to legacy, writes Adedayo Adejobi

A

t the end of a long professional journey, Emmanuel Ajufo is less interested in talking about what he has accumulated than what he has changed.

The companies are there. The billboards are there. The professional titles and awards have their place. There is the advertising career that began in 1990, the entrepreneurial leap that followed, the years spent helping to steer the Outdoor advertising industry, and, later, the decision to enter the legal profession.

Yet, the thread running through all of it is not ambition in its conventional sense. It is an instinct for order, a willingness to question what appears settled, and an almost stubborn refusal to watch something being done wrongly without saying something.

“I can’t be in a place and things, no matter how small, are being done wrongly and not talk about it,” he says.

“I can’t tolerate bad behaviour at all.”

It is perhaps the most revealing sentence in an interview that repeatedly returns to the same idea. Ajufo has spent much of his working life moving from practitioner to institution builder, and from participant to challenger of the system.

The journey began rather modestly. “When I got my first job,” he recalls, “I just wanted a job.”

There was no grand career blueprint. In 1990, the immediate objective was employment. The first opportunity came at Klinsite Outdoor Limited, now Optimum Exposures. But something happened after the job began. The work grew on him. What started as employment became a profession, and the profession became a defining part of his life.

More than three decades later, Ajufo can look back on a career that has tracked the transformation of Nigeria’s Outdoor advertising industry itself.

When he entered the business, the landscape was rudimentary.

“When we started, it was only wooden billboards and starch,” he recalls. There were fewer options for clients, but there was also a culture of self-regulation that, in his telling, demanded a certain discipline. Companies behaved themselves.

Clients paid on time, sometimes even in advance. There was a fear of the monitoring community that he remembers with characteristic humour: “The fear of the Monitoring Community was the beginning of wisdom.” The industry changed. Options multiplied. Regulation became more complex. State signage agencies emerged, and Ajufo believes that the development came at a cost to the industry’s culture of self-regulation.

It was against this changing backdrop that he eventually made one of the most consequential decisions of his career.

In 2008, he left established employment and founded OpportunityTo- See. He had worked for some of the country’s leading Outdoor advertising firms, and he understood both their strengths and their limitations. The businesses, he says, remained essentially one person’s businesses. Had he been offered a profit-sharing arrangement by the last two firms he worked for, he believes he might never have left.

But there was another reason. “I saw the small gap in service delivery,” he says.

The response was straightforward in principle, although demanding in execution: improve the quality of service. That decision captures something fundamental about Ajufo’s approach to business. He does not describe entrepreneurship as a dramatic act of rebellion. Rather, it appears to have emerged from an impatience with what could be better.

That same instinct would later take him into the heart of the industry’s regulatory battles.

For years, Ajufo occupied the unusual position of being both an operator within a heavily regulated industry and a leader of the professional association representing its interests. That meant navigating the uncomfortable space between business, regulation and professional responsibility.

He became increasingly convinced that the industry’s fear of regulatory retaliation was preventing it from standing up for itself.

There was a particular fear among operators that confronting government could mean losing site approvals. For some industry leaders, accepting an unfavourable regulatory decision was therefore seen as the safer option. Ajufo reached a different conclusion.

Before becoming President of the association, he had decided that the industry needed to change its attitude towards regulatory authorities.

His answer was confrontation, not for confrontation’s sake, but as a means of forcing institutional progress.

“We will be the sacrificial lamb for the Association,” he says of the position he took. The consequences were real. His own businesses felt the impact. But the confrontation also helped galvanise the industry to approach regulatory issues collectively.

His philosophy is distilled in one line: “If you don’t challenge the wrongs, you will suffer.”

There is no guarantee in that philosophy. Challenge and lose, he acknowledges, and there may still be consequences. But challenge and win, and the entire industry benefits.

Today, he says, there are two pending legal cases against the Lagos State Government. The battles that once belonged primarily to an industry operator have now acquired another dimension because Ajufo is also a lawyer. The transition into law was itself unexpected.

He insists that becoming a lawyer was never a childhood dream.

Ajufo It was, instead, the product of healthy competition among peers.

While living in Akure, Ondo State, he had a friend who studied law part time. The friend later became a member of APCON, giving him both professional standing and a legal qualification. Ajufo wanted to equal the feat.

His friend died before Ajufo was called to the Bar. Today, he describes the legal profession with the same intensity that characterised his advertising career. He entered it after decades in another profession, bringing with him a deep understanding of the industry he would increasingly represent from an informed legal perspective.

“The greatest beneficiary of my new profession is our Association,” he says.

Law changed the way he thinks. It made him more conscious of the consequences of decisions and more deliberate in dealing with regulatory issues.

It also gave him another instrument with which to challenge a system he believes sometimes benefits from the ignorance of those it regulates.

“People get away with a lot when the other party is ignorant,” he says.

There is, however, a danger in turning Ajufo into a flawless corporate warrior. He is not one.

He knows that some people have considered him difficult. Others have called him troublesome. He understands why. He believes in order. Plans should be followed. If plans have to change, those affected should be carried along. Punctuality should not require persuasion.

Laws should be respected.

The same rigidity that can make an institutional reformer effective can make him difficult company. But he sees himself differently: easy going, compassionate, dependable, consistent and loyal to those who have earned his loyalty.

The contrast is part of what makes him interesting.

The man who will challenge a regulator can also speak warmly about family. He describes himself as a dependable and loving father, husband and sibling, and credits his wife with helping build the home while his professional responsibilities expanded.

Earlier in the marriage, he spent more time at home. As the demands of work increased, that changed. The arrangement worked because, from the beginning, he and his wife had agreed on their respective responsibilities. He calls her a “wonderful house builder”.

And while nobody in the industry may easily tell him no, there is one person who can. “At home, the real head of the home, my wife.”

The humour matters because it reveals a man who is not entirely consumed by professional seriousness.

Asked what he misses about youth, his answer is telling: “Limited responsibility. Plenty energy to explore.”

Asked what he wishes he had started earlier, he answers simply: “Marriage.”

And what has he stopped worrying about? “Impressing people.”

That may explain why his definition of success is not particularly

material. “Fulfilment,” he says.

Indeed, when asked whether he considers himself successful, he pauses over the distinction between success and contentment. “I want to believe that I am contented.”

There have been mistakes. The most expensive came from accepting an employment opportunity without doing sufficient due diligence. He left his previous employer and discovered that the new opportunity was not what he had imagined. The consequences were severe until another employer came to his rescue.

The lesson has stayed with him: all that glitters is not gold, and important decisions deserve careful thought.

It is a lesson that seems to have informed the entrepreneur, the association leader and the lawyer.

There have also been things he has refused to do. Some business opportunities, he believes, never materialised because prospective partners knew that his organisation would not compromise its principles.

He does not regret that. “We have no regrets because at the end of the day, we are still here.”

That final phrase perhaps captures his professional philosophy better than any title could.

‘Still here. Still building. Still challenging.’

But increasingly, the question is what comes next. At this stage of his life, two things keep Ajufo awake.

The first is professional recognition for the Outdoor advertising industry. He believes the industry is ready for professional status and that the wider advertising ecosystem would benefit from it.

The second is much more personal: building Tenax Legal Services, his young law firm into an organisation capable of delivering quality service to its clients.

Money does not appear on the list. “I have never worried about making money. I won’t start now.”

The priorities have shifted from accumulation to institution building.

That is also where his idea of legacy begins.

Ajufo is proud of the people he has mentored. Some of them, with a mixture of affection and respect, call him the “King of Boys”.

But the nickname is not the legacy he wants. His real legacy, he says, will be the change brought to the industry. Professional status, if achieved, would be the icing on the cake.

For his children and family, the measure is different. Their lives, and what they have become, are the evidence.

For the younger professionals he has mentored, he hopes the story will be of a man who fought selfishness and helped secure professional status for the industry. There is something fitting about that distinction.

Ajufo’s career began with a man simply looking for a job. It evolved into a profession, then entrepreneurship, leadership, regulatory advocacy and law. At every stage, the role changed, but the instinct remained remarkably consistent.

T H I S D AY, T h e sat u r day N e w s pa p e r • A U G U S T 22, 2026

26

featurE

How Mbah is Turning Enugu into a No-Go Area for Criminals

Governor Peter Mbah’s aggressive investment in intelligence, technology and inter-agency security operations is yielding results, with Enugu increasingly demonstrating its capacity to disrupt kidnapping networks and protect residents, businesses and investors, writes Gideon Arinze

F

or Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, the fight against insecurity is not merely about responding to crimes after they have occurred. It is increasingly a deliberate strategy to make the state hostile to criminal networks, strengthen the capacity of security agencies, restore public confidence and create an environment where residents, businesses and investors can operate without fear.

That strategy is beginning to produce measurable results.

The latest breakthrough came with the arrest of 14 suspected kidnappers linked to a network that has allegedly operated across Enugu and several other states, including Rivers, Kogi, Nasarawa, Kwara, Taraba and the Federal Capital Territory.

The arrests, according to the Enugu State Police Command, have opened another major window into the operations of organised kidnapping syndicates that had previously exploited interstate boundaries, local intelligence networks and the difficult terrain around some communities.

The suspects were paraded by the Enugu State Commissioner of Police, Mamman Bitrus Giwa, who disclosed that the Command had recovered five AK-47 rifles, two pump-action rifles, one locally fabricated firearm, 310 rounds of live 7.62 x 39mm ammunition, eight live cartridges and seven empty AK-47 magazines.

For a state that has had to contend with kidnapping and other violent crimes in some locations in the past, the message is that Enugu’s security agencies are becoming increasingly capable of tracking criminals beyond the point of attack.

This is precisely the security environment Governor Mbah has sought to create since assuming office. The governor’s approach has been anchored on the understanding that security is foundational to virtually every other ambition of government.

A state cannot attract investment if businesses are afraid to operate. It cannot expand tourism if visitors are worried about their safety. It cannot create jobs if economic activity is disrupted by criminality. It cannot persuade residents to invest their resources locally if they lack confidence in the ability of the state to protect lives and property.

Mbah has therefore consistently connected security to his broader economic transformation agenda. His administration has set an ambitious target of growing Enugu’s economy from about $4.4 billion to $30 billion. But the governor has acknowledged that such an objective would remain largely aspirational if the state could not first establish an environment of safety and stability.

This explains why security has received such prominence in the administration’s development strategy.

The recent police operation demonstrates how that investment is increasingly translating into operational capability.

According to Giwa, two of the suspects arrested were linked directly to the August 2 kidnapping incident at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Inoyi-Affa, in Udi Local Government Area.

Following the attack, security agencies intensified operations to locate the perpetrators. Two of the suspects reportedly fled Enugu and regrouped with their associates in Port Harcourt.

Rather than allowing the movement across state lines to frustrate the investigation, security operatives maintained the pressure.

The suspects were eventually arrested following further intelligence-led operations by the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Violent Crime Response Unit.

The development is significant because organised criminal groups often rely on mobility as a shield. They exploit the boundaries between states, moving from one jurisdiction to another after carrying out operations. A successful security response therefore requires more than police presence at crime scenes. It requires the ability to gather intelligence, follow suspects, share information and sustain investigations across jurisdictions.

That is increasingly the model being pursued in Enugu.

The police said preliminary investigations had linked the arrested suspects to several kidnapping operations, including incidents along the Enugu-Ugwuogo-Opi-Nsukka Road, the Obioma-9th Mile-Umulumgbe-Okpatu axis, the Eke-AffaEgede-Ezinze corridor and other locations in Ezeagu Local Government Area.

Investigators linked the suspects to the May 25 abduction of a male victim at Mgbabuowa/Aguobuowa in Ezeagu, during which a ransom of N5 million was reportedly collected. They were also linked to the May 9 abduction of two male victims at Obioma, Udi, during which a female victim was allegedly shot and killed and $28,700 reportedly obtained as ransom.

Another case involved the April 10 abduction of two male victims along the Eke-Ezinze Road, for which the gang allegedly obtained $70,000. In another incident on April 12, seven people were reportedly kidnapped at Obinaofia, Ezeagu, with N25 million allegedly paid as ransom.

Taken together, the cases indicate that the security challenge was not the work of isolated criminals acting spontaneously.

Rather, the police described an organised network with members operating from different parts of the country.

The network allegedly had local support within Enugu, including individuals who provided transportation and intelligence.

One Enugu-based member, according to the police, operated a tricycle and allegedly transported gang members, firearms and other criminal equipment to and from operational locations. Another allegedly supplied information that helped the gang evade security surveillance and identify targets.

This aspect of the investigation is particularly important

Mbah because it demonstrates that combating insecurity is not simply a matter of confronting armed criminals in forests or on highways. It also requires dismantling the support systems that enable them to operate.

Governor Mbah’s administration has repeatedly emphasised this broader understanding of security.

The state’s investment in intelligence, surveillance and technology is designed not merely to react to criminal activity but to identify threats early, improve coordination and provide security agencies with the information required to intervene.

One of the most important components of this architecture is the ultramodern Enugu State Command and Control Centre, supported by AI-enabled cameras deployed across the state.

The significance of this infrastructure was recently underscored by security experts from the National Institute for Security Studies, Abuja, who visited Enugu as part of the Executive Intelligence Management Course 19 study tour.

Dr. Olusola Opa-Ola, a staff member of the institute, singled out the command-and-control infrastructure for commendation, describing it as a potent tool for combating insecurity.

His assessment provides an independent indication of how the state’s security investments are being perceived by professionals whose work is directly connected to national security and intelligence management.

According to him, the command-and-control system had assisted the state in curbing insecurity, identifying grey areas and improving its ability to prevent crime.

He urged other states to study and replicate the model, arguing that stronger state-level security infrastructure could reduce the pressure on the Federal Government and enable state governments to respond more effectively to security threats.

The recommendation is significant because it reinforces a central element of Mbah’s security philosophy: government must have the political will and institutional capacity to invest in security.

For years, insecurity in different parts of Nigeria has frequently been discussed in terms of insufficient personnel, inadequate equipment, poor intelligence and weak coordination. While those challenges remain relevant, the Enugu experience suggests that deliberate investment in infrastructure and coordination can substantially improve the state’s ability to respond.

The command-and-control centre provides the technological backbone. Intelligence gathering provides the information.

Security agencies provide the operational capacity. Inter-agency collaboration provides the reach. Community cooperation provides another critical layer.

Together, these components create a security system that is considerably more difficult for criminal networks to penetrate.

The August 2 attack on St. Joseph’s Catholic Church also illustrates the administration’s determination not to allow an isolated security breach to become a permanent source of fear.

Following the attack, a joint operation involving the Department of State Services, Nigerian Army, Police, Enugu State Forest Guard and other security personnel reportedly engaged the suspected kidnappers in a gun battle.

Three suspects were subsequently arrested, while one of the alleged criminals died during the operation.

Two of the three kidnapped victims, Seminarian Lawrence Igbo and Emmanuel Onwudi, regained their freedom and

reportedly identified the arrested suspects as their abductors.

The administration’s message, as conveyed by Secretary to the State Government Prof. Chidiebere Onyia on behalf of the governor, was unequivocal: criminals may run, but they cannot hide indefinitely.

That stance has become one of the defining characteristics of the state’s security response. Rather than treating insecurity as an inevitable condition, the administration has sought to establish the principle that criminality carries consequences.

The government has also sought to draw a clear distinction between ordinary citizens and those who actively facilitate criminal operations. While citizens are encouraged to cooperate with security agencies, those who provide information, transportation, logistics or other assistance to criminal networks are being warned that they too will face investigation and prosecution.

This is critical because organised kidnapping thrives on local support. Criminals may carry the weapons, but they often require local intelligence to identify vulnerable targets, understand terrain, monitor security movements and escape after an operation. Breaking that chain of support can be as important as arresting the gunmen themselves.

The police investigation into the 14 suspects has reportedly uncovered precisely such a structure. The suspects allegedly concealed or invested proceeds from their criminal activities in livestock and properties, while some of the money was also spent on lavish lifestyles and foreign trips, including journeys to Cameroon. This points to another dimension of the security challenge: kidnapping has become a business model for organised criminal groups.

The objective of dismantling such networks therefore cannot end with the arrest of gunmen. Authorities must also follow the money, identify assets acquired with ransom proceeds, establish financial links and prevent criminal enterprises from converting illicit wealth into legitimate-looking investments.

The Enugu Police Command has indicated that investigations are continuing to determine the suspects’ involvement in other crimes and identify additional members of the network.

That continuing investigation could prove as important as the arrests themselves. Every additional suspect identified, every weapon recovered, every financial trail followed and every intelligence gap closed weakens the network’s capacity to reorganise.

It is also an indication that the state’s security strategy is moving beyond episodic operations towards sustained pressure. This is where Mbah’s security policy intersects with his economic agenda.

Security is not simply a law-enforcement issue. It is an economic development issue. A safer Enugu creates the conditions for increased investment. Increased investment creates jobs. Jobs expand household incomes. Expanded incomes stimulate consumption. Productive economic activity expands the state’s revenue base, which in turn gives government greater capacity to invest in infrastructure and social services.

Security is therefore the foundation upon which the rest of the agenda rests. For a state determined to transform its economy and reposition itself as an investment destination, making security not just a response to insecurity, but an essential pillar of development will definitely be one of Governor Mbah’s most consequential achievements.

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T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R • A U G U S T 22, 2026

VIEW POINT

What Warren Buffett and Tony Elumelu’s Legendary Lives Tell Us

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n a deeply personal and reflective letter to shareholders at the end of 2025, America’s billionaire investor, Warren Buffett, reminded the world that while money matters, the highest purpose of wealth is what it makes possible for others. At 95, the “Oracle of Omaha” accompanied his words with an extraordinary act of generosity: converting 1,800 Class A Berkshire Hathaway shares into 2.7 million Class B shares and donating approximately $1.35 billion to four family foundations.

It was another step towards fulfilling his pledge to give away 99 per cent of his fortune during his lifetime. That commitment has already seen him transfer well over $60 billion, with the cumulative value of those gifts now exceeding $200 billion at today’s market prices.

What is remarkable is not merely the scale of Buffett’s philanthropy, but its quiet consistency.

While many billionaires spend their later years preserving wealth, Buffett has spent his distributing it, not in search of applause but in pursuit of impact.

The beneficiaries tell their own story. The Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation expands educational opportunities and supports reproductive health globally. The Sherwood Foundation invests in public education, affordable housing and community development. The Howard G. Buffett Foundation combats hunger, strengthens food security and supports communities affected by conflict. The NoVo Foundation focuses on advancing the rights of women and girls while building more just societies.

These donations add to the billions Buffett has previously given to the Gates Foundation. His fortune is not being buried in endowments; it is being converted into opportunities for generations he will never meet.

In Nigeria, Tony Elumelu is pursuing a related mission, though through a distinct African context.

Like Buffett, he has committed much of his life to creating opportunities for people he may never know personally. Yet Elumelu’s intervention is especially significant on a continent where access to capital remains one of the greatest obstacles to enterprise, innovation and inclusive growth.

His investments are in people with ideas, discipline and business capacity, people capable of transforming not only their own lives but also their communities and economies.

This week, Elumelu stepped down as Chairman of the United Bank for Africa, UBA, closing one of the most consequential chapters in modern African banking. He leaves not because his influence has diminished, but because institutions endure only when leadership outlives personalities.

His departure from UBA marks the end of an era, but not the end of his life’s work. In January

Elumelu

2027, he is expected to assume the chairmanship of Seplat Energy, bringing to the energy sector the philosophy that helped transform a Nigerian bank into one of Africa’s most recognisable financial institutions.

The temptation is to compare Elumelu with Buffett simply because both are billionaires who have embraced philanthropy. That comparison, although flattering, misses the deeper connection. Both men understand that capital achieves its highest return not when it compounds in investment portfolios, but when it compounds through people.

Long before he became synonymous with Africapitalism, Elumelu was a young salesman trying to persuade customers to buy photocopiers. It is a story he has often recalled with humour and gratitude. Selling office machines was hardly glamorous, but it taught him lessons that no business school could replicate: resilience after rejection, discipline in preparation, respect for customers and the dignity of earning every opportunity.

Every sale required persuasion.

Every rejection demanded persistence.

It was there, long before the boardrooms and billion-dollar deals, that he learned that success is rarely inherited; it is earned one conversation at a time.

That formative experience explains much about the man he would become. Unlike many philanthropists whose giving is shaped by abundance, Elumelu’s worldview was shaped by opportunity, or more precisely, by the scarcity of it.

He has often spoken about applying for jobs despite lacking every qualification listed in the advertisement, relying instead on courage, preparation and the willingness of someone to take a chance on him. The memory of those early struggles now echoes through every entrepreneur supported by the Tony Elumelu Foundation.

Whether through Heirs Holdings, Transcorp, UBA or the Tony Elumelu Foundation, Elumelu has consistently pursued institutionbuilding rather than transactional success.

His philosophy is grounded in a simple conviction: institutions should survive their founders. Transactions do not.

Perhaps nowhere is this more evident than at UBA. Elumelu, a proud economist made in Africa, demonstrated that African economic growth can be driven by African capital, African institutions and African leadership.

He led the acquisition and transformation of the former United Bank for Africa at a time when Nigerian banking was still largely organised around domestic ambitions.

While many financial institutions viewed international expansion as an extension of prestige rather than strategy, Elumelu imagined something different. He saw Africa not as 54 isolated markets, but as an emerging economic community requiring financial infrastructure capable of supporting intra-African trade, investment and

entrepreneurship.

That vision fundamentally altered UBA’s trajectory.

Today, UBA’s presence stretches across Africa and into major international financial centres. It connects African businesses to global capital while supporting trade across the continent. The bank became not merely larger, but more relevant to Africa’s economic integration.

Long before the African Continental Free Trade Area entered mainstream policy discussions, UBA was already building much of the financial architecture that such integration would require.

One of the defining characteristics shared by Buffett and Elumelu is their willingness to leave institutions stronger than they found them. Buffett spent years preparing Greg Abel to succeed him at Berkshire Hathaway. Elumelu, similarly, leaves UBA with governance structures, strategic clarity and leadership continuity capable of sustaining the institution beyond its founding generation.

“I leave the Board with great confidence in UBA’s future. Emmanuel Nnorom is a leader of integrity, experience and sound judgment, and I am confident that the Bank will continue to thrive under his leadership,” Elumelu said in a statement announcing his retirement.

That act of preparing a strong successor speaks volumes about the leadership of Buffett and Elumelu, a leadership measured not only by expansion but also by succession.

In an era when too many organisations remain hostage to the personalities of their founders, both men have demonstrated that the ultimate responsibility of leadership is to make oneself replaceable.

That lesson may become even more consequential at Seplat Energy.

Africa’s energy future is entering one of the most complex transitions in its history. The continent must simultaneously expand energy access, attract capital, improve governance and respond to global decarbonisation pressures. This is not merely a commercial challenge; it is an institutional one.

Adeola Akinremi is a public policy advisor and strategic communications expert with extensive multilateral experience advising on economic and policy reforms across global markets. As Founder and CEO of Hintells, he leads an AI-powered intelligence platform that connects businesses and African diplomatic missions in Washington, D.C. He can be reached via email: adeola@hintells.com

Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

What is an IPO and ShouldYou Invest inThem?

W Blessing Adesoye

henever a famous company announces that it is “going public”, the same scene unfolds - headlines dominate business pages, social media buzzes with excitement, and thousands of investors begin asking the same question: “How do I buy the shares?”

It is an understandable reaction. Investing in a successful company from the start of its life as a listed business sounds like an opportunity too good to ignore. But there is an important distinction that every investor should understand: an Initial Public Offering (IPO) is an event, whereas investing is a process.

Confusing the two is where many investors make costly mistakes. The excitement around IPOs is not unique to Nigeria. In the United States, Elon Musk’s SpaceX recently completed the largest IPO in history, raising about $85.7 billion (more than its initial $75 billion target) at a $1.77 trillion valuation. The offer attracted strong demand from retail investors, demonstrating how the prospect of owning shares in a well-known company can capture investors’ imagination. Here in Nigeria, over the past few months, banks and insurance companies have raised fresh equity to meet new regulatory requirements. There has also been significant retail interest in the upcoming listing of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery. In this article, we walk through what the various terms (capital raises, rights issues, public offers and

IPOs) mean, and how investors should think about them. A capital raise is how a company obtains funding to support its operations, expansion, acquisitions, or other strategic plans.

Companies usually do this in two broad ways: by borrowing money through instruments such as commercial paper, bonds, and bank loans, or by selling ownership stakes to investors. Equity capital raises may take different forms, including rights issues, private placements, IPOs, and public offers. In a rights issue, the company raises equity capital by offering new shares to its existing shareholders, usually in proportion to their current holdings. An IPO is the process by which a private company offers its shares to the public for the first time by listing on a stock exchange. The offer typically provides the company with access to public equity capital to support its growth, expansion and other strategic objectives, while also establishing a publicly traded market for its shares. Intense publicity, optimistic narratives and heightened investor enthusiasm often accompany an IPO. While some IPOs ultimately justify the excitement, others remind investors that popularity and investment quality are not the same thing. Whenever excitement begins to outpace verified information, caution, not urgency, should become the default response.

So, should investors participate in an IPO? The answer is simple: “it depends”. That is not indecision. Every company about to IPO should be assessed on its own merits. The first consideration is the business itself. Investors should understand how the company makes money, whether its revenues and profits are

sustainable, the strength of its cash flows, the level of debt it carries, and the quality of its management. A familiar brand name is not a substitute for a sound business. The second consideration is valuation. Even an exceptional company can be a poor investment if investors pay too much for it. The quality of a business and the attractiveness of its share price are not the same thing. Likewise, the offer price should not automatically be accepted as fair simply because the company and its advisers have determined it; the advisers aim to balance the issuer’s objective of raising capital with investors’ willingness to pay. Therefore, investors should independently assess whether the valuation appropriately reflects the company’s fundamentals and long-term prospects. The third consideration is information. The IPO prospectus, not the news headlines, is the single most important document an investor should read. It contains the company’s audited financial statements, principal risks, business strategy and intended use of the funds being raised. Reading the prospectus allows investors to evaluate facts rather than rely on speculation or marketing.

Finally, investors should recognise and be comfortable with the fact that newly listed companies often experience significant price volatility in the early days of trading as they go through a phase of price discovery, making the price you pay even more important. Before investing in any IPO, investors should ask themselves a few questions: • Has a formal prospectus been filed with and approved by the relevant regulator, the

Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)?

• Is the business financially sound? What do its revenue, profitability, cash flows and debt levels reveal?

• Is the valuation reasonable, or am I paying a premium because of excitement surrounding the company?

• Why is the company raising capital? Is it to finance future growth, or to provide an exit for existing shareholders?

• Can I tolerate potentially significant price volatility after listing?

• Does this investment complement my existing portfolio, or am I making a concentrated bet driven by fear of missing out? Ultimately, an IPO is neither an opportunity to be embraced uncritically nor one to be automatically avoided. It is simply an invitation to purchase ownership in a business at a price determined before the market has had the opportunity to establish its own view of value. An IPO marks the beginning of a company’s journey as a public business, not the end of an investor’s analysis. Excitement may attract attention, but disciplined research, sound valuation and a long-term perspective are what protect capital and build lasting wealth. In the end, the most important question is not whether an IPO is popular. It is whether the business, the price and the risks make sense for your investment objectives, including your investment horizon.

After all, an IPO is an event, but successful investing is a lifelong process.

• Blessing Adesoye Investment Research Analyst, ValuAlliance Asset Management Limited

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T H I S D AY, Th e S ATURDAY, N e w S PA P e r • AUGUST 22, 2026

•Tourism •Arts&Culture

Charles Ajunwa

• 08064268968 • ajunwacharles@gmail.com

Adefaratoluwa Osindero: Africa’s Tourism, Hospitality Industry Need International Markets, Investments toThrive The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Clevenard Group Worldwide, Adefaratoluwa Osindero, in this chat says Africa is merely scratching the surface of its tourism and hospitality potentials, noting that the sector needs international collaboration to thrive. He also speaks on other salient issues. Charles Ajunwa brings excerpts

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hat is your assessment of the tourism and hospitality industry in Africa?

I see enormous potential in Africa’s tourism and hospitality industry. In fact, I believe we are only beginning to scratch the surface of what Africa can offer the world. Africa has everything — extraordinary landscapes, wildlife, history, diverse cultures, music, fashion, cuisine, creativity and, most importantly, people with incredible stories to tell. The challenge is not a lack of attractions.

The challenge is how we connect those attractions to international markets, investment, infrastructure and effective storytelling. I also believe we need to change the way we look at tourism. Tourism is not just about hotels and people visiting beautiful places. It touches aviation, agriculture, transportation, entertainment, fashion, technology, arts and crafts, media and small businesses. If we develop those connections properly, tourism can become a major engine for economic growth and job creation across Africa.

My concern is that Africa is sometimes marketed from the outside rather than being properly represented from within. We need to tell our own stories, showcase our own entrepreneurs and communities, and create platforms where international investors and visitors can see Africa not only as a destination, but as a continent of opportunity.

You promote cultural exchanges between countries in Europe and Africa. Can you throw more light on this?

For me, cultural exchange is at the heart of what Clevenard represents. When people from different countries meet, they discover that although our cultures may be different,

we share many of the same aspirations. We want to build businesses, educate our children, create opportunities, preserve our cultures and leave something meaningful for the next generation.

Through Clevenard, we create opportunities for Africans and Europeans to meet through business, tourism, media, education, culture and creative industries. We bring together entrepreneurs, tourism professionals, authors, academics, creatives, media practitioners, community leaders and other professionals from different parts of the world. But I don’t see this as Europe helping Africa or Africa helping Europe. I see it as a partnership. There is knowledge in Africa that Europe can learn from, and there is knowledge in Europe that Africa can benefit from. There are markets that can be connected, businesses that can collaborate and cultures that can learn from each other.

Sometimes one conversation can change someone’s life. You can meet someone at an international gathering and discover a business opportunity, a new market, a cultural partnership or even a friendship that lasts for many years.

That is the kind of bridge we want Clevenard to build.

What is the Business and Tourism Networking Summit and the Clevenard Awards all about?

The Business and Tourism Networking Summit is about bringing the right people into the same room. We want business leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, tourism professionals, policymakers, creatives and other stakeholders to have meaningful conversations about what we can actually build together. I don’t want international conferences to become places where people simply sit, listen to speeches and go home. I want people to leave asking themselves: Who can I partner with?

What market can I enter? What investment can I

Osindero make? What can I learn? What can I contribute?

That is the thinking behind the networking component. The Clevenard Global Awards are about recognition. There are so many people across Africa, Europe and other parts of the world doing exceptional work in business, education, tourism, culture, leadership, entrepreneurship, creativity and social development. Many of them don’t receive the international recognition they deserve. The Clevenard Award gives us an opportunity to say, we see your work, we value your contribution and we believe your story deserves to be heard internationally. For me, recognition is not just about giving someone a trophy. It is about giving their work visibility and creating an opportunity for their story to inspire somebody else. So, if I had to summarise the Summit and the Awards in three words, I would say: connection, opportunity and recognition.

What informed the choice of Spain for

this year’s summit?

Spain was a very intentional choice. Geographically, Spain is one of the natural meeting points between Europe and Africa. When you look at the Mediterranean, you see how closely connected these two regions have been historically through trade, migration, culture and commerce. Spain also has a very strong tourism and hospitality identity. It understands international tourism, and that makes it a very appropriate environment for the kind of conversations we want to have. But there is another reason that is important to me. I wanted to create a platform where African and European participants could meet on neutral and international ground — not simply as guests of one another, but as partners. Alicante provides that opportunity. It gives us a European setting in which we can bring African entrepreneurship, culture, tourism, creativity and leadership into direct conversation with European audiences and markets.

Senator Ida Calls for 10-year ANJET to Honour Radisson Tourism Transformation Roadmap Group, Owoyemi , Others Light Nwobodo

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or strategic interventions aimed at accelerating the intentional development and promotion of Nigeria’s tourism sector, the Chancellor of Umara Musa Yar’Adua University in Katsina, Senator Ibrahim Mohammed Ida, has called for the production of a 10-year Tourism Reform Agenda which comprises the tourism roadmap for Nigeria, the establishment of the National Tourism Marketing Council, and the Tourism Development Fund (TDF).

Ida, who made the call at the ninth edition of Nigeria Tourism Investors Forum and Exposition (NTIFE) 2026 and the 29th Annual General Meeting (AGM) 2026 of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) held in Abuja, said ‘‘It is direct, it is urgent, and it is the only path forward if we are serious about unlocking the true potential of tourism in Nigeria. ‘‘For decades we have talked about tourism as the next big thing after oil. Today, we must move from talk to action. The world is moving, and tourists are making choices every day on where to spend their money and their holidays. We must act promptly and decisively.’’

Speaking on theme, ‘Tourism Transformation Through Collaboration, Policy Alignment, and Investment,’ Ida said lack of intentional focus

and uncoordinated policies implementation over the years have left the sector in a poor state.

‘Why is this so? The answer is simple. We tend to regard tourism more as an afterthought, instead of treating it as a real revenue earner,” he declared. ‘‘The time for the real transformation of the sector is now. Indeed, it should have happened yesterday. However, the type of transformation needed can only come if we adhere strictly to the intent and purpose of choosing the theme of today’s Forum, which is the quest for a roadmap for the transformation of tourism through collaboration among stakeholders; a deliberate policy alignment among the stakeholders; and the search for the infusion of massive capital Investment into the sector from public and private sources,” he added.

According to him; ‘‘shift from focusing purely on volume and revenue to prioritising sustainability, community well-being, and technological innovation. ‘‘The successes of our private airlines, Nollywood, and Fintech came when the government created the space and the private sector provided capital and know-how. Tourism must follow the same model.’’

He recommended ‘‘to establish a Tourism Investment One-Stop Shop in every state and at the federal level. Towards that end, I call on the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly to work with the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority to create a harmonised Tourism Development Levy.

Light Nwobodo

T

he Association of Nigerian Journalists and Writers of Tourism (ANJET) has said it will honour the Radisson Group and the Chairman of the Avalon Group, Chief Tajudeen Owoyemi and others as part of the activities to mark its 2026 conference and awards themed, ‘Nigerian tourism industry and Tinubu administration’s immigration reforms.’

The event billed to take place in October will hold at Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos.

ANJET President Okorie Uguru explained that the awards to both Owoyemi and Radisson Group was in recognition of their contributions in the Nigerian hospitality ecosystem in the last close to 25 years.

He said both Owoyemi and the Radisson Group have made so much positive the hospitality industry in Nigeria.

On Owoyemi, the ANJET President said, “For close to 25 years, Chief Tajudeen Owoyemi has quietly, but steadily influenced and shaped the Nigerian hospitality landscape with his conceptualization and building of top hospitality outfits that have helped to

redefine hotels’ services and infrastructure.

“In 2005, when there was dearth of privately owned top hospitality outfits outside Lagos and Ibadan, Chief Owoyemi changed the landscape by opening the Avalon Hotel Offa under the management Mr. Trevor Ward’s W Hospitality.

Avalon Hotel became the reference point in hotel’s excellence in facilities and excellent services.”

He said despite the massive investment and contribution to the growth of the hospitality industry in Nigeria, Owoyemi always stays under the radar.

Owoyemi

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T H I S D AY, Th e S ATURDAY, N e w S PA P e r • AUGUST 22, 2026

AUTOWORLD

Bennett Oghifo

• 07052343083 •Email: benett.oghifo@thisdaylive.com

Carloha Introduces Another Chinese EV Chery Q into Nigeria’s Market

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hinese automotive brands are steadily expanding their presence in the Nigerian market, bringing new technologies, innovative vehicle designs, and more diverse mobility options to consumers.

The latest in this regard is the introduction of the Chery Q into the market by Carloha Nigeria, the official franchise holder and assembler of Chery vehicles in Nigeria.

The Chery Q is also the continuation of the heritage of Chery International's iconic QQ family, reimagining that legacy for a new generation of drivers with modern electric mobility, intelligent technology, and distinctive design.

The all-new Chery Q is a compact hatchback designed to accelerate Nigeria's transition towards sustainable mobility. As one of Chery's dedicated pure-electric models, the Chery Q combines expressive styling, intelligent technology, advanced safety, and exceptional practicality to deliver an affordable and enjoyable electric driving experience for Nigerian motorists.

Developed around the global theme "Quest for Joy," the Chery Q is targeted at young professionals, growing families, and urban drivers seeking a cleaner, smarter, and more connected lifestyle. Its award-winning design, recognized with both the Red Dot Design Award and the iF Design Award, features distinctive geometric styling, rounded LED lighting, a modern two-tone interior, and a unique

The all-new Chery Q, an EV personality that stands out on city roads.

Despite its compact footprint, the Chery Q offers impressive interior space through an 85 percent space-efficiency ratio. Measuring 4,195 mm in length with a 2,700 mm wheelbase, it provides generous passenger comfort alongside versatile storage, including luggage capacity expandable from 375 litres to 1,450 litres, a 70-litre front trunk, and 38 smart storage compartments. These features make the vehicle well suited to daily commuting, shopping, family activities, and urban adventures.

Engineered on a sophisticated rear-engine, rearwheel-drive platform with independent suspension and balanced weight distribution, the Chery Q delivers confident handling, excellent stability, and an engaging driving experience. Advanced technologies such as Electric Power Steering and One-Box Brake-by-Wire further enhance precision and driver confidence.

The Chery Q's One-Box Brake-by-Wire technology is an intelligent electronic braking system designed to deliver faster response, smoother braking, improved

safety, and enhanced energy recovery. The system contributes to a more confident driving experience while helping maximise the vehicle's electric driving range.

Safety is a major highlight, with the vehicle equipped with a comprehensive Level 2 Intelligent Driver Assistance System featuring more than 20 advanced safety functions. These include Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Intelligent High Beam Control, a 540-degree panoramic camera, and Automated Parking Assist, providing greater safety, convenience, and peace of mind in urban driving environments.

Inside, the Chery Q delivers a premium digital experience centred around a 15.6-inch high-definition touchscreen powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 processor. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, intelligent voice control, 50W wireless charging, smartphone integration, and remote vehicle management through a mobile application provide seamless connectivity and convenience for everyday use.

Designed for practical electric mobility, the Chery Q delivers an estimated 400-kilometre driving range based on the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), enabling many Nigerian motorists to undertake extended daily commuting and potentially complete a typical working week with fewer charging interruptions. Its ultra-fast charging technology allows the battery to recharge from 30 percent to 80 percent in just 16.5 minutes, significantly reducing charging downtime.

WMotors Brings Jetour Africa Expedition to Lagos, Tests T1, T2, G700

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etour WMotors, the official distributor of Jetour vehicles in Nigeria, has brought the 2026 Jetour Africa Expedition to Lagos, putting the T1, T2 and G700 SUVs through a 128km adventure that combined city driving, lifestyle experiences and a rigorous off-road challenge.

A key performance-focused activity designed to demonstrate the power, control, durability, and off-road capability of the Jetour luxury SUVs under real driving conditions, while at the same time projecting Nigeria positively to the rest of the world.

By taking the vehicles through challenging terrain, slopes, bumps, and uneven surfaces, the experience enabled participants to witness Jetour’s capabilities firsthand while positioning the brand around adventure, performance, and reliability.

Encouraged by the bright and pleasant Sunday morning, Jetour WMotors flagged off the expedition in front of its showroom on Adeyemi Alakija Street. Victoria Island, Lagos.

The Jetour Africa Expedition is an international

National Theatre, Ahmadu Bello Way, Third Mainland Bridge and the Ikorodu off-road circuit, where all the vehicle models underwent a vigorous terrain challenge.

With the challenge, Jetour WMotors showcased the capability, durability and versatility of the

Jetour brand through a combination of eight units of the Jetour T1, T2 and G700.

Earlier, before the flag-off, Jetour WMotors had organised a high-energy fitness and mobility warm-up session inside the Jetour showroom, handled by a team from I-Fitness professional fitness trainers.

As part of the journey, the Jetour WMotors team distributed road safety awareness materials to some drivers and other stakeholders along the selected route network, while also distributing items, including bottled water provided by the Bigi brand, to people, including motorists.

Refreshments were provided by Frootaz.p.

But what could be regarded as the highpoint of the expedition was the performance-driven task in an off-roadin the Ikorodu area, designed to demonstrate the power, control, durability and off-road capabilities of the Jetour fleet under real driving conditions.

By putting the vehicles through challenging terrains, steep slopes, bumps and uneven surfaces, the experience allowed participants to witness Jetour’s capabilities firsthand and position the brand around adventure and performance.

mobility.

Rather than relying principally on interventions that reduce the cost of fuel, the symposium will explore whether a well-structured vehiclefinancing ecosystem could enable more Nigerians, transport operators and small businesses to acquire vehicles through affordable and sustainable credit arrangements.

The discussion is also expected to examine the challenges currently limiting access to automotive finance, including high interest rates, short loan tenures, foreign exchange pressures, vehicle prices, credit-risk concerns and the absence of sufficiently broad financing products tailored to Nigeria’s automotive market.

Speaking ahead of the event, Dr Femi Eghuaikhide, Chairman of the LCCI Auto Sectoral and Allied Group and Deputy Managing Director of R.T. Briscoe Nigeria Plc, said the symposium is coming at a critical period when Nigeria needs to rethink how mobility can be made more accessible and sustainable.

“The question before us is no longer simply

how to make fuel cheaper, but how to make mobility more affordable and sustainable for Nigerians. Vehicle financing has the potential to become a powerful mobility equalizer if we can develop the right credit structures, realistic repayment terms and strong collaboration between government, financial institutions and automotive industry stakeholders".

According to him, the symposium will provide an important platform for stakeholders to move beyond identifying the challenges and focus on practical financing solutions capable of supporting vehicle ownership, public transportation and the growth of Nigeria’s automotive industry.

Also speaking on the event, Austin Akpovili, Chairman of the Symposium Organising Committee and Chief Operating Officer at Bras Motors Limited, expressed optimism that the programme would produce meaningful conversations and actionable recommendations.

“We are bringing the right stakeholders to one table because mobility is not only an automotive issue; it is an economic issue.

Our objective is to examine how access to affordable vehicle credit can transform the lives of individuals, transport operators and businesses, while creating a stronger and more sustainable automotive ecosystem for Nigeria".

Jetour vehicle during very challenging off-road test Pan-African lifestyle and adventure initiative created to celebrate exploration, mobility, community and the spirit of adventure across Africa.

The adventure organised in Lagos by Jetour WMotors took participants through Lekki Market, the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge, Freedom Park, the

CBN Governor, NADDC DG Set for LCCI Symposium on Vehicle Financing

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he Auto Sectoral Group of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) is set to bring together key stakeholders in Nigeria’s automotive, financial and transport sectors for a major symposium aimed at examining how vehicle financing can provide a more sustainable pathway to affordable mobility in the country.

The symposium, scheduled for September 17, 2026, will take place at the Henry Fajemirokun Hall of the LCCI, Victoria Island, Lagos, with the theme: “From Subsidy to Credit: Can Vehicle Financing Replace Fuel Subsidy as Nigeria’s Mobility Equalizer?”

The one-day event is expected to generate robust discussions around the rising cost of vehicle ownership and transportation, access to affordable credit, fleet renewal, automotive lending, leasing and the role of financial institutions in expanding mobility opportunities

Eghuaikhide for Nigerians.

The organisers believe that the removal of fuel subsidy and the resulting changes in transportation costs have made it necessary to rethink the traditional approach to supporting

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T H I S D AY, T h e sat u r day N e w s pa p e r • A U G U S T 22, 2026

perspective

Uzoamaka Aguoji: Reconnecting Igbo Diaspora with Its Cultural Roots Kasie Abone

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very society owes its continuity not merely to the number of its people but to those who consciously preserve its history, language and identity.

At a time when many indigenous languages face the growing threat of extinction amid globalisation, migration and cultural assimilation, a quiet but determined movement is gathering momentum to reconnect the Igbo people with their roots. Among those leading that renaissance is Dr. Uzoamaka Josephine Aguoji.

Her recognition by the Centre for Igbo Language and Culture, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Igbariam, during its maiden Cultural Day Festival was therefore more than the conferment of an award. It was an acknowledgement of decades of purposeful leadership devoted to education, community service and the preservation of the Igbo identity beyond the shores of Nigeria.

The honour, presented in recognition of her exceptional contribution to humanity, dedication to excellence and remarkable impact on education and the promotion of Igbo language and culture in both Nigeria and the diaspora, reflects a journey that has consistently been defined by service rather than status.

An accomplished educationist, administrator and community leader, Aguoji’s career spans more than three decades across two continents. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Bayero University, Kano, before obtaining a Master’s degree in Educational Administration from the University of Lagos. Determined to broaden her professional horizon, she proceeded to the United States, where she earned a second Master’s degree in Administration and Supervision of Special Education Programs from the prestigious Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, before completing a doctorate in the same discipline.

Her academic accomplishments translated into distinguished professional service. After serving in the National Youth Service Corps at Command Day Secondary School, Ojo Cantonment, she remained in the institution for a decade under the Federal Ministry of Defence. Her career later flourished in New York, where she spent twenty-five years as a teacher, education supervisor and later an adjunct professor at Medgar Evers College, City University of New York (CUNY).

Yet, despite building an enviable career abroad, Aguoji never allowed geographical distance to weaken her attachment to her homeland.

Perhaps the greatest testimony to that commitment came during her tenure as the first female President of the Council of Igbo States in the Americas (CISA), an organisation that for decades had been exclusively led by men. Rather than viewing her emergence through the prism of gender, she saw

Uzoamaka Aguoji leadership as an opportunity to serve.

“I never saw myself as a boss,” she once reflected. “I saw myself as a servant whose responsibility was to carry everyone along, build teamwork and prepare the next generation of leaders.”

That philosophy defined her administration.

Under her leadership, CISA introduced institutional reforms that strengthened the organisation’s identity, including the creation of its official flag and improvements in the organisation of its annual conventions. But her most enduring legacy would become the historic decision to return the globally celebrated CISA Festival of Arts and Culture to Igbo soil.

For years, the festival had served as a rallying point for Igbo communities across the United States. Dr. Aguoji believed the celebration deserved a deeper connection with its ancestral homeland.

Against considerable logistical and organisational challenges, she rallied support from the CISA Board, including Board Chairman Dr. Nwachukwu Anakwenze, Vice Chairman Onye Nze Amadiebube Mbama, Board Adviser Professor Napoleon Onyechi and members of the Governing Council, to stage the historic homecoming in Abagana, her hometown in Anambra State.

It was not merely another cultural festival. It became a symbolic reunion between the homeland and millions of Igbos scattered across the world.

Appropriately themed “Oganiru Ifediche: Reconnecting Igbo Global Roots for Cultural Renaissance,” the festival underscored the conviction that the progress of the Igbo people must remain firmly rooted in the values that have historically defined them—enterprise, resilience, communal spirit, hard work and cultural pride.

More importantly, Aguoji ensured the initiative would outlive her tenure. She proposed a dual-hosting model that allows future editions of the festival to alternate between the diaspora and the homeland, creating a sustainable bridge between both worlds. Today, that vision is already taking shape as several Igbo states continue to express interest in hosting subsequent editions.

Ironically, the woman now celebrated internationally for promoting the Igbo language almost grew up without it.

Born in Jebba and raised largely outside Igboland, she credits her late father, Engineer Josiah Ifeacho Ekunno, for insisting that she study Igbo language while in secondary school. At the time, she admits, she did not fully appreciate the significance of his insistence.

Today, she regards that parental decision as one of the defining moments of her life. It not only enabled her to remain connected to her heritage but also equipped her to become one of the strongest advocates for the language among diaspora communities, where she now reads the Igbo Bible and encourages younger generations to embrace their mother tongue.

For Aguoji, preserving Igbo culture extends beyond language. It encompasses traditional dressing, indigenous cuisine, music, dance, communal values, respect for elders, integrity, hospitality and the dignity of honest labour. These same ideals resonated throughout the maiden Cultural Day Festival at COOU. Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

Airport Police Arrest 17-year-old over Sexual Assault Chinedu Eze

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he Airport Police Command has arrested a 17-yearold male suspect, Benjamin Daniel, in connection with the alleged sexual assault of a 14-year-old girl in the Sabo Masalashi area of Bassa, Abuja, on August 15, 2026.

The incident was reported by the victim’s mother at the Abuja Airport Police Division. According to the report, the suspect, who resides in Angua Mandala, allegedly lured the victim into

his room under the pretext of purchasing some of the soya bean cake she was selling, where he sexually assaulted her.

Upon receipt of the report, the Divisional Police Officer, Abuja Airport Police Division, immediately advised the victim’s parents, facilitated her prompt medical attention, and mobilised personnel to locate and arrest the suspect.

The suspect was subsequently arrested and remains in police custody as investigation continues.

His statement was obtained in the presence of his mother, in accordance with applicable procedures for handling juvenile suspects.

The Command said it has also ensured that appropriate measures

NSIB Releases Preliminary Report on Enugu Air Runway Overrun at Benin Airport Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

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findings from a preliminary inspection of the aircraft.

However, the NSIB stressed that the investigation was ongoing, with further technical examinations and analysis still being conducted.

As part of its immediate safety action, the Bureau issued four safety recommendations, numbered A-2026-039 to A-2026-042.

The recommendations were addressed to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).

The recommendations focus on issues relating to the runway-end environment, control tower line of sight and the availability of meteorological information at the airport.

The NSIB has also released a preliminary flightpath recreation video based on information available at this stage of the investigation, stating that the report and flight-path recreation were released in line with its commitment to transparency and the communication of safety information to the public and aviation stakeholders.

It, however, cautioned that the information contained in the preliminary report was subject to further review and analysis and could change as the investigation progresses.

The final report, according to the Bureau, would contain its conclusions and any additional safety recommendations arising from the completed

he Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) yesterday released its preliminary report on the July 23, 2026 accident involving an Embraer ERJ 170-100LR aircraft operated by Enugu Air Limited at Oba Akenzua II Airport, Benin, Edo State.

The aircraft, with nationality and registration marks 5N-ENR, was operating scheduled passenger flight ENU4264 from Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, to Benin when the accident occurred at about 2:55 p.m.

According to the report signed by Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, NSIB, Mrs. Funke Adebayo-Arowojobe, “the aircraft, carrying five crew members and 63 passengers, landed on Runway 05 before overrunning the runway end and entering the unpaved area beyond the runway. The aircraft subsequently struck approach-lighting installations and two fixed concrete structures associated with a decommissioned localizer installation.”

NSIB, noted that despite the runway overrun and impact with the installations, all 68 occupants were safely evacuated using the aircraft’s emergency escape slides, with no injuries reported.

The Bureau said the preliminary report contained factual information gathered during the ongoing investigation, including witness statements, flight recorder data, air traffic control communications and investigation.

are being taken to safeguard the welfare and wellbeing of the victim, while the suspect will be brought before a juvenile court of competent jurisdiction upon conclusion of investigation.

In the statement signed by Public Relations Officer, Airport Police Command, Ikeja, Lagos, the Commissioner of Police, Airport Police Command, CP Olufunke Ogunbode, sias she strongly condemned the incident and reiterated the Command’s zero tolerance for rape, sexual assault and all forms of sexual violence.

She therefore directed the DPO to ensure that all necessary steps are taken to protect the victim and facilitate justice in accordance with the law.

NAA Cautions Agencies Against Violating Legislation in Auctioning Forfeited Assets

Linus Aleke in Abuja

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he Nigerian Auctioneers Association (NAA) has cautioned government institutions against violating the legal instruments governing the auction of forfeited assets, stating that the process for auctioning public assets is clearly spelt out by law.

The association stated that only licenced auctioneers are empowered by law to auction assets or property on behalf of the government or corporate bodies.

Speaking during a press conference in Abuja, the President of NAA, Alhaji Musa Kurra, warned government agencies against dealing with anyone parading himself as the President of the NAA other than himself.

He noted that his four-year term as President of the association would elapse in 2027, asserting that anyone parading himself as the leader of the association and transacting business with government institutions on that basis is an impostor.

“There are so many government agencies that think they are above the law. So many of them are doing things as they please, and they know they are going against the law. They think they are above the law.

“We are guided by the law. We are recognised by the law of this country, and we are licensed. So, what we are saying is that if anybody wants to be an auctioneer, the door is open for him. But you cannot be a public official and become an auctioneer at the same time. It is not possible.

“This is what is happening in so many places, and I want to call the attention of the President to it because they are tarnishing his image.

“Some went as far as creating a department called the Direct Auction Administration Department. That department is illegal. What they are doing is illegal.

They know that the Proceeds of Crime (Recovery and Management) Act, 2022 (POCA), is there. If you do not even believe in the Public Procurement Act, 2007 (PPA), the POCA is there. That is the regulatory framework governing auctions in Nigeria.

“The POCA Act says they should appoint a qualified valuer to value whatever they seize, especially where there is a final forfeiture.

They should appoint a qualified valuer to value the properties and appoint a licensed auctioneer to auction the properties. Any property forfeited as a result of crime is supposed to be auctioned to the public. It belongs to the people of this country.”

Expressing displeasure over those impersonating the leadership of the association, he said: “As far as I am concerned, we do not have any faction.

Everybody knows what is legitimate. Everybody knows what is right.

“If they are just going around imposing themselves because they are impostors, we have no other name

for them. If they have any documents, whether court documents or otherwise, that invalidate the judgment of the National Industrial Court or invalidate the election that took place in October 2023, let them bring them.

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T H I S D AY, T h e sat u r day N e w s pa p e r • A U G U S T 22, 2026

Analysis

How Access Bank, Fifth Chukker, UNICEF Are Transforming Learning in Kaduna

In Kaduna State, an education partnership involving Access Bank, Fifth Chukker and UNICEF is seeking to address different learning challenges by placing greater emphasis on what children actually know and can do, rather than simply the class or age at which they are placed, writes Sunday Ehigiator

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or many children, being in school does not necessarily mean they are learning at the same pace as their classmates. Differences in ability, previous learning experiences and individual circumstances can leave some pupils struggling with basic literacy and numeracy while they progress through successive grades.

Hence, Access Bank’s partnership with Fifth Chukker and the United Nations Children’s Fund, UNICEF, aims to bridge this gap amongst children in Kaduna State.

At the Access Bank Fifth Chukker School in Kaduna, the partnership has introduced Teaching at the Right Level (TaRL), an internationally recognised methodology designed to help children learn according to their actual ability.

The approach forms part of a broader commitment by the three partners to improve learning outcomes and ensure that investment in access to education translates into meaningful educational achievement.

The partnership’s experience highlights a growing recognition that building classrooms and enrolling children are only part of the education equation. For children to benefit fully from schooling, they must also acquire the foundational skills needed to read, write, understand numbers and engage successfully with more advanced learning.

Since its inception, the Access Bank, Fifth Chukker and UNICEF partnership has raised more than $3 million, delivered 120 classroom blocks and supported more than 14,000 children through the Access Bank Fifth Chukker School initiative and related programmes.

But alongside expanding access, the partnership has increasingly focused on the quality of learning taking place inside the classroom.

Addressing Learning Gaps At the Kaduna school, early assessments identified significant gaps in literacy and numeracy among pupils, with some children struggling to master foundational concepts considered essential for future learning.

Rather than allowing those difficulties to persist as children moved through the school system, the school introduced targeted interventions aimed at meeting learners at their individual levels and helping them develop core competencies. This is where Teaching at the Right Level comes in.

Rather than assuming that pupils in the same grade have identical learning needs, the methodology enables teachers to assess children’s actual learning levels and

Aig-Imoukhuede

provide instruction that corresponds with those levels.

The objective is to help children strengthen the skills they have not yet mastered while creating opportunities for them to progress at an appropriate pace.

The approach has become part of the school’s foundational learning interventions, with more than 1,000 pupils benefiting annually from programmes aimed at strengthening literacy and numeracy, including TaRL activities implemented during the 2025/2026 academic session.

For a school dealing with different levels of learning ability among pupils, the approach offers a way of identifying gaps and responding to them before they become more difficult to address.

At the centre of the intervention are teachers.

The programme provides specialised training that equips educators to assess pupils’ actual learning levels and offer targeted support. This

allows teachers to move beyond simply delivering the same lesson to an entire class and pay closer attention to individual learning needs.

The significance of this approach goes beyond academic performance. When children receive instruction that matches their level of understanding, they are more likely to experience progress and develop confidence in their ability to learn. That confidence can, in turn, encourage greater participation and sustained engagement with school.

The school’s experience suggests that effective teaching is not simply about covering a curriculum.

It is also about understanding where learners are starting from and providing the support required to move them forward.

Beyond Building Classrooms The TaRL intervention complements a broader educational model championed by Access Bank Fifth Chukker School.

The partnership has invested not only in infrastructure but also in teacher development, nutrition and student wellbeing, alongside innovative teaching practices.

This broader approach reflects an understanding that children’s educational outcomes are influenced by more than what happens during lessons. Creating the conditions for children to learn and thrive requires attention to both the learning environment and the individual needs of pupils.

The partnership has therefore emphasised outcomes rather than enrolment alone. The measure of success is not simply the number of children attending school or classrooms constructed, but whether pupils are acquiring the skills that can help them navigate school and life beyond it.

One of the central principles emerging from the initiative is that educational progress should be measured by learning, not merely attendance. The partnership’s focus includes helping children read, write, think critically and develop skills needed to realise their potential.

This is particularly important where foundational learning gaps exist. A child who has not mastered basic literacy may struggle to engage effectively with more advanced subjects as the curriculum becomes increasingly demanding. Similarly, weak numeracy skills can create challenges in mathematics and other areas requiring quantitative understanding.

Addressing these gaps early can therefore provide children with a stronger foundation for subsequent learning.The experience at the Kaduna school demonstrates the importance of identifying such challenges rather than allowing them to become entrenched as pupils progress from one grade to another.

Promoting Inclusion The partnership’s record also reflects an emphasis on educational inclusion. Between 2018 and 2026, the school graduated 2,538 learners, with girls accounting for more than 54 per cent of those who completed their studies.

The figures point to an effort to advance educational quality alongside inclusion, ensuring that investment in learning opportunities translates into participation and completion across the student population.

Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

How BPP, Permanent Secretaries Are Reforming Public Procurement Celeb Ismail Omipidan

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hange is inevitable. But implementing it always meets resistance from within and outside. Since assuming office about two years ago, the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, has faced that resistance head-on with a reform agenda aimed at transforming Nigeria’s procurement ecosystem.

He came in at a time when confidence in the Bureau was low. It was gathered that before his appointment, President Bola Tinubu, had considered shutting down the BPP, noting that it had “outlived its usefulness.” The period leading to 2023 was widely described as an era of “anything goes” at the Bureau.

This was captured by former BPP DG, Dr. Emeka Eze, at the inaugural edition of, “The Procurement Evolution,” in June this year.

Eze, now Chairman of the FCT Civil Service Commission and pioneer DG of BPP from 2007 to February 2016, said he was the subject of numerous petitions during his tenure for blocking improper benefits from the procurement system.

“For nine years that I was DG, there were petitions flying everywhere.

Fireworks everywhere. But after I left, for another eight years, no petitions, no fireworks,” Eze said.

He added: “The moment the current DG (Adedokun) resumed, I noticed the fireworks and petitions have resumed again. It means there is something we are doing right which some people do not want. After I left office, I met one of those behind the petitions and asked why he had gone quiet. He said, ‘You blocked us from chopping.’”

Like every reformer, Adedokun knows the journey demands courage, consistency, and collective resolve. Undeterred by naysayers, he has pressed ahead with reforms, backed by President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Re-engaging Permanent Secretaries To align Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) with the reforms, the BPP revived the Permanent Secretaries’ Retreat after a four-year break.

The 2026 edition, themed “Strengthening Procurement Leadership and Accountability for Effective Budget Execution and National Development,” held from Thursday, July 9 to Sunday, July 12, 2026, at Four Points by Sheraton, Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, was declared open by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

Addressing participants, Adedokun described public procurement as “one of the most powerful instruments of governance” and “the bridge between budget approval and service delivery.”

He disclosed that BPP has initiated 23 key reforms to align Nigeria’s system with global best practices. These include:

Proposed amendment of the Public Procurement Act, 2007, Development of a National Procurement Strategy Framework, Revised procurement thresholds, Community-based procurement, Contractor classification and categorisation, Full rollout of Electronic Government Procurement (e-GP), and the Nigeria First Policy among others.

He also announced that BPP helped the Federal Government save about N1.1 trillion in 2025 through improved price intelligence and budget evaluation, with weekly savings averaging N8 billion since January 2026.

“Roads are constructed through procurement. Hospitals are equipped through procurement. Schools are built through procurement. Therefore, the quality of procurement determines the quality of governance,” he said.

Stressing that Permanent Secretaries, as Accounting Officers, bear ultimate Adedokun responsibility for compliance with the ment, Environmental and Social Federal University of Technology, Act, Adedokun said BPP has introduced Standards Enhancement Project Owerri; and Joseph Sarwuan Tarka administrative sanctions for erring (SPESSE) as evidence.

University, Makurdi. procurement officers and a Debarment Under SPESSE, specialised under“Development partners and Policy to blacklist contractors who violate graduate degrees in Sustainable multilateral institutions have due process.

Procurement have been established acknowledged Nigeria’s strides in He urged MDAs to publish conin six universities: Ahmadu Bello institutionalising transparency and tract awards on their websites and University, Zaria; University of Laaccountability in public procurethe BPP portal, and to comply with gos; University of Benin; Abubakar ment under President Tinubu’s circulars on budget implementation, Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi; Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said. contract variations, and agreements.

Adedokun added that Nigeria’s reforms are gaining global recogniRead full article online - www.thisdaylive.com tion, citing the Sustainable Procure-

saturday AUGUST 22, 2026 • T H I S D AY

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5TH CORONATION ANNIVERSARY SPEECH Itsekiri dede mo kin Aghan Ene mi bu yiri, bu ran ran, gbu Oritse, ni utse to wun tse, gb'ene ni odon to boghor.

O se ni ne ne O tso gbara O tsaye Omi, e bor-ene Ale, e gb'ene fe mi Afere ori fi, e kwa-ene keniken de, Oritse to kpe n'Itsekiri, O gbi ene, kuru urun Aghan we dede Onuwe, ino kon bi Oyo Keniken den, ofo mi e wa ye Protocols in order His excellency, the Governor of Delta State, His Excellency, the Governor of Lagos State, The Senator Representing Delta South, The Honorable Minister of Arts, Culture & the creative economy, The Speaker of the Delta state house of assembly, My fellow traditional rulers, those from the north led by the Emir of Zazzau & representing the Sultan, HRH the Emir of Kano; Those from the South West, led here in Person by the Alaafin of Oyo, The Olowo of Owo, & the Olori representing His Majesty The Ooni.

Those from the East led here by the Eze Arochukwu And my brothers here in Delta State led by the first Vice Chairman of the state traditional ruler's council.

I greet you all.

We are deeply inspired by the kindness that God has shown us which calls for all of us to reunite, rally around the crown and the greater purpose we have been entrusted with.These moves have been laudable and must continue to lay the right foundations that will stand the test of time; sure foundations that can serve future generations. The journey before us is noble yet demanding, one that requires not only goodwill and enthusiasm but also the wisdom, capacity, commitment and collective strength to fulfil the God-given responsibilities before us.

We cannot allow past distances to prevent future unity; we must rightly build bridges where necessary and not walls. Our strength is not found in the numbers we exclude, but rather in the multitude that can be inspired, empowered and brought together for a common purpose. It is in unity that we embrace one another and move forward together courageously.

The crown is not merely an ornament, it is a carried responsibility to be stewarded, a legacy to be protected and a purpose to be fulfilled together. Let us remain united & rally around the crown.

MINDSET CHANGE Throughout this week, we have displayed our rich and diverse cultures founded on strong traditions and

saturday AUGUST 22, 2026 • T H I S D AY

believes. CULTURE is the WAY we do things. Looking at time like a river; when a river is stretched, we can locate where it starts, the process of its growth and where it ends. Therefore, our way of doing things, when viewed in the light of the past, the present and the future, our culture takes on a whole new meaning. It is not merely an outward expression, but it must be anchored on eternal principles that help us evolve as a people in this ever-changing world. We are who we are because of what we believe, what we accept and what we celebrate.

The way our ancestors did things in the past is what has become our TRADITION. And these TRADITIONS from the past have become our history, which is now behind us. Our present way of doing things is what determines our future. The time is now for us to properly examine our present circumstances and make decisions we believe will result in a better and brighter future for our people.

This generation inherited traditions, history and a legacy of a proud rich heritage. God, in His omniscience, does not allow any man to go back into time to make amends. This means, we cannot change the facts from our history, we cannot change past traditions or rewrite our past. While we cannot change our past or deny the reality of the present; it is this same God who gives us the power to shape the future in the way we want it. If our future will to be different from our past or even our present, then the way we DO things must be different from the way we DID things.

If our future will be different from our past, our TRADITIONS must evolve into a culture that helps us create our future. If the future we want for our children will be different from the history of our forefathers, then we as a people must evolve our tradition into a culture that will better serve us and our children in the future. We appreciate the efforts of our ancestors for the way they did things, as that was relevant then and has brought us thus far. However, if we want to go further into a future that is aligned to our destiny, then we must do things in a different way from how we did things in the past.

Achieving this will require boldness to challenge ourselves in truth without sentiment and to evaluate our traditions to see where our culture needs improvement and evolution. To effectively do this will require boldness still, humility and dogged determination. We love and value our traditions, however, tradition is not the same as purpose, it is an aid to purpose.

Purpose has to do with DIRECTION. Purpose helps us keep in focus our actions, aims and targets.

Purpose is what causes us to commit to daily plans, and our long-term goals which are supported by our traditions. If we accord more sentiment on tradition and not enough focus on purpose, we will keep producing the same result of old. We risk preserving the past at the expense of the future. To move forward, purpose must lead where sentiment and tradition cannot, towards a desired direction.

We are at a pivotal point in our existence, where bold decisions must be made, and brave steps taken, so we change the course of our trajectory. We must be alive to our responsibilities when God has clearly shown us the direction in which we must go.

I admonish all of you my children, to honor and respect those that have come before us and the traditions they have left for us.

However, let our focus be on our PURPOSE and how we can quickly attain said purpose. We must develop new habits that focus more on creating and less of complaining. Complaining and comparison does not create the solutions we need. Instead, this keeps us stuck May our hearts be soft for the things that are good for us, and may God continue to bless us all.

Aja mo ki Aghan oh

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GLOBAL SOCCER

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THISDAY, The SATURDAY Newspaper • april 24, 2011

A

weekly pull-out

22.8.2026

news

Title Defence in Style Page. 35

Ibrahim gusau

Sword of damocles dangles

Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President, Ibrahim Musa Gusau’s administration is facing unprecedented criticism following the Super Eagles’World Cup qualifying failure andtheSuperFalcons’eliminationfromtheWomen’sWorldCup,markingacollapsein Nigerianfootballadministration.Criticsaccusethe“GlassHouse”leadershipoffostering a toxic, unaccountable system that sidelines talent to protect bureaucratic interests, with mounting pressure from the National Sports Commission and the Senate for accountability. With the EFCC and the ICPC having commenced investigations into the utilisation of the N12bn Federal Government intervention fund released to the federation for players’wages and bonuses, Gusau’s leadership of the country’s football governing body is hanging in the balance, writes Kunle Adewale

T H I S D AY, T h e sat u r day N e w s pa p e r • A U G U S T 22, 2026

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Ibrahim Gusau

Sword of Damocles Dangles T he atmosphere in the hallways of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) secretariat in Abuja—affectionately known as the “Glass House”—has never felt heavier. ForAlhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, the federation’s 40th president, the structure is beginning to feel less like a bastion of sports governance and more like a real-time pressure cooker.

Just days ago, Gusau stood at the International Conference Centre in Abuja, flanked by traditional rulers, receiving the “Football Infrastructure Icon of the Year” award from Blueprint Newspaper. He spoke of his milestone achievements: implementing FIFA Forward-funded pitches, upgrading player hostels, and introducing under-20 referees into the local premier league. But in the unforgiving court of Nigerian public opinion, infrastructural plaques do not score goals. While Gusau held his trophy, a larger, administrative storm was breaking over his head.

With the Super Eagles’ catastrophic failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFAWorld Cup and the Super Falcons missing out on the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil, Nigerian football has hit a modern nadir. The National Sports Commission (NSC), led

by Shehu Dikko, stepped in to pause the NFF’s scheduled September 27 election in Lafia, rather contemplating a three-month Normalisation Committee to step in. Facing a sudden summons by the Senate Committee on Sports chaired by Senator Abdul Ningi, Gusau finds himself completely cornered, fighting an uphill battle to protect his presidency and his legacy.

EFCC, ICPC on NFF’s Heels

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission have commenced investigations into the utilisation of the N12bn Federal Government intervention fund released to the Nigeria Football Federation for players’ wages and bonuses.

The fund was approved by President Bola Tinubu in 2024 to clear outstanding payments owed to Nigeria’s national teams.

Sources have alleged that some officials linked to the matter had been invited by investigators and had provided statements.

“They have been under our radar before now.

We invited some officials over to our offices, and they gave their statements. Presently, they are on administrative bail. We have not ended our investigation,” the source said.

According to the report, the request was made under the Freedom of Information Act and sought access to financial records and other documents concerning the N12bn Federal Government intervention fund reportedly released to the NFF for players’ wages and bonuses.

However, the NFF is said to have declined to release the requested records, citing ongoing investigations by the two anti-corruption agencies.

Danladi Bako Calls for Gusau’s Removal

In his reaction, former Sokoto State FAChairman, Dr Danladi Bako, has described the continued stay in office of the Gusau-led board of the NFF as an aberration.

The former DG of the Nigeria Broadcasting Commission (NBC) stressed that it was self-serving, immoral and insensitive to throw the emotions of over 200 million football loving Nigerian fans into a ping-pong, ding-dong and topsy-turvy clanger.

“I imagine the pain of the country and a football loving President Bola Tinubu that the Super Eagles have not qualified for the FIFA World Cup since 2018, losing out in 2022 and 2026 even when Cape Verde, a country of less than a million people qualified, even when a small Caribbean country like Curacao qualified, even when FIFA increased the (CAF) African slots to 10.

“That we lost out at the quarter final is embarrassing enough, we simply did not play well, we scrapped through the whole tournament unconvincingly. Now, we are not going to be in Brazil next year.”

Bako further put these poor handling of the country’s football as the reason why Nigeria’s age group national teams have all underperformed.

“And the sad issue is that there seems to be no hope ahead.”

He described the free money inherent in the federation as the reason why every successive administration at the NFF always resort to using FIFA’s threat that any government funding a country’s sports should not interfere in its affairs.

The former Sokoto FA boss therefore wants President Tinubu to direct relevant government agencies to call for the exit of the NFF board instead

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have failed to qualify for last two World Cup competitions

of the so-called attempt to perpetuate themselves in office for another four years through the flawed electoral congress slated for September 27 in Lafia.

The Accountant in the Eye of the Storm

Unlike his charismatic, globe-trotting predecessor, Amaju Pinnick, Gusau is a quiet, bureaucratically minded administrator. An accountant by training who spent decades climbing the civil service ladder to become a Director of Finance in Zamfara State, Gusau understands institutional machinery. He served two terms as Pinnick’s “Chairman of Chairmen” and headedtheNFF’sinternalSecurityCommittee.When he won a landslide victory in Benin City in 2022 to claim the NFF presidency, supporters believed his backroom competence would bring quiet stability after years of theatrical controversies.

Instead,criticsarguethathisbureaucraticapproach morphed into institutional inertia. While Gusau focused on technical training—such as organising Nigeria’s first CAF B coaching courses in 16 years—the crown jewels of the nation’s footballing identity began to fall apart on the pitch.

The math is brutal. For a country of over 200 million people that treats football as a secular religion, missing back-to-back Senior Men’s World Cups is more than a sporting disappointment; it is a fullblown national trauma. When the Super Falcons were eliminated prematurely at the WAFCON stage, wiping out their unblemished record of attending every single FIFAWomen’s World Cup since 1991, the public’s patience snapped completely. Prominent sports voices and millions of passionate fans across social media began calling his tenure “the worst administrative era in NFF history.”

“Autonomy Is Not Immunity”

Gusau’s defense has remained firm, focused heavily on resisting the “polluted environment” of modern football punditry. In a recent address on player selection allegations, he vehemently denied ever interfering with national team handlers, including current coach Eric Sékou Chelle.

“People should be careful about what is going on, especially on social media,” Gusau warned.

“I will never tell a coach to pick this player or that player. I have never stayed in the same hotel with the national team since I became President. I don’t want to be a distraction.”

His allies strongly argue that the NFF provided the coaches and players with everything they required, shifting the blame entirely to poor player execution and bad luck on the pitch. They point out that Gusau shouldn’t be vilified for tactical errors made by athletes who play in elite European leagues.

However, the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Senate aren’t buying the bad-luck narrative. The core problem, according to critics, is a deep-seated culture of institutional non-disclosure and a total lack of accountability. For decades, the NFF has utilised FIFA’s strict “anti-government interference” rules as a protective shield against any financial or performance auditing from the state. When the government asks to see where

billions of Naira in tournament allocations went, the NFF has historically hinted at the threat of an immediate FIFA ban.

But in 2026, that old storyline has lost its teeth.

Commentators and lawmakers are making it clear thatautonomyisnotablankcheckforadministrative failure. The NSC’s aggressive move to cancel the Lafia elective congress and the Senate’s emergency summons represent a changing dynamic: the government is no longer afraid to demand answers for the public funds injected into the federation.

The Ex-International Revolt

The administrative crisis has also reignited an ideological war over who should run Nigerian football. Legendary ex-internationals, led by former Super Eagles captain Austin Jay Jay Okocha, have openly criticized the current NFF structure, calling it a system built to stifle progress. Okocha recently revealed his deep frustration with the federation’s inner workings, citing past experiences where comprehensive recommendations from expert panels were left to gather dust on NFF shelves.

Okocha even highlighted his brief tenure as Chairman of the Delta State Football Association, explaining that the systemic obstacles forced him to walk away. “I took the chairmanship position, but when I saw what was going on, I left. It’s not worth it,” Okocha stated. He noted that while fans constantly beg ex-players to save the game, the underlying system makes it impossible to function effectively.

This sentiment highlights a structural flaw in the NFF’s composition. The federation’s voting congress is heavily dominated by state-level political appointees rather than technical football minds.

Consequently, icons like Nwankwo Kanu, Segun Odegbami, and Daniel Amokachi are left on the sidelines as passive onlookers, while career politicians retain full control of the boardroom.

Can the Glass House Be Rebuilt?

As Ibrahim Gusau prepares to face the Senate Committee,rumourmillsacrossNigeriaarespinning out of control. Unverified reports hint at internal pressureforhisresignation,alongsidecounter-claims that the embattled president is determined to run for a second four-year term if the NSC allows the elective congress to proceed.

Fixing the crisis legally requires far more than merely replacing one president with another. True reform demands a complete overhaul of the NFF statutes. Football enthusiasts and analysts are calling for a system where voting rights are given to the entities that actually drive the sport—such as the domestic Premier League clubs and players’ unions—rather than regional state chairmen.

To cool the rising tensions, Gusau recently inaugurated an official Fact-finding Committee on Nigeria Football Setbacks, urging its members to investigate the root causes of recent tournament failures with complete sincerity. Whether this move will appease the NSC, the Senate, and a furious fanbase remains to be seen.

Running football isn’t rocket science, but it does

require absolute transparency, technical expertise, and an alignment of purpose. As the dark clouds gather over the Glass House, Ibrahim Musa Gusau faces the ultimate test of his administrative career. He must either successfully prove that his infrastructure projects are laying the groundwork for a brighter future, or watch the spinning gears of Nigerian sports politics grind his presidency to a premature halt.

Meanwhile, reports have it that the NSC is seeking President Bola Tinubu’s approval to halt the election and establish a normalisation committee that would oversee reforms within the federation.

However, a member of the Gusau-led NFF board dismissedreportsthattheelectionhadbeencancelled, insisting that the process remained on course.

“It is all rumours, there is nothing like that and there is no such thing as a threat of FIFA ban. The person heading the NSC, Shehu Dikko, knows the statutes very well, so I believe he will only take steps in accordance with the rules guiding us,” the board member said.

Interestingly, the Senate Committee on Sports has on Wednesday summoned the leadership of the NFF and the NSC for an emergency meeting over the worsening fortunes of Nigeria’s national football teams.

The committee expressed concern over the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFAWorld Cup andtheSuperFalcons’inabilitytosecurequalification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

The emergency meeting with the Chairman of the NSC, Shehu Dikko, and President of the NFF, Gusau, was presided over by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports, Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central).

In a statement on Wednesday Ningi said the session was convened at the prompting of the President of the Senate, Senator GodswillAkpabio, who demanded an explanation for the declining fortunes of Nigerian sports, particularly football.

How well Gusau survives this storm remains to be seen.

Gusau

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Amokachi giving instructions to participants at the Mainland Summer Camp at the Legacy Pitch of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos Havertz celebrates scoring the opening goal with Saka

Arsenal Begin Title Defence in Style, Beat Coventry 3-0 Arsenal made a flying start to their Premier League title defence with a 3-0 thumping of newly-promoted Coventry City in the season opener at the Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners showed their readiness to go again with an impressive demolition of Man City in the Community Shield last weekend and they sent another statement to their

PREMIER LEAGUE RESULT

Arsenal 3 - 0 Conventry Fixtures

Hull City v Man Utd Ipswich v Sunderland Everton v Palace Nottm Forest v Leeds Brentford v Tottenham

rivals for the crown with this demonstration of dominance.

Once again new signing Christos Tzolis shone. The Greece international notched two assists at the Principality Stadium and was involved in Arsenal’s first two goals on his Premier League debut, first winning the ball back for Riccardo Calafiori to tee up Kai Havertz and then sending in the cross Coventry ‘keeper Carl Rushworth diverted into Bukayo Saka’s path. “What a left-winger Arsenal have got,” purred Sky Sports’ Jamie Carragher on co-commentary.

This was a reality check for Coventry on their return to the top flight after 25 years away.

They failed to make a tackle in the first half - they could not get near Mikel Arteta’s men. It did not get much better for them

after the interval, with Martin Odegaard’s miscued finish adding a third for Arsenal just four minutes into the second period.

With Ben White, Saka and Odegaard combining brilliantly through the right channel, Tzolis electric on the left, and Havertz looking sharp ahead of some slick midfield play from Declan Rice and Myles Lewis-Skelly, Arsenal already look up to speed and formidable.

Their defence was barely tested but there was Ezri Konsa’s pre-match welcome, following his £55m move from Aston Villa, was a reminder they have brought even greater strength and depth to that department, too. Tougher tests are to come, with Aston Villa away and Chelsea at home next on the fixture list, but Arsenal are going to take some stopping.

Al Hilal Press for Osimhen with Improved €150m Bid Al Hilal president, Prince Nawaf bin Saad is preparing to travel to Istanbul for direct talks with Galatasaray over a possible deal for Super Eagles Striker, Victor Osimhen.

The Saudi Pro League club has already increased its offer for the Nigeria striker to €150 million after Galatasaray rejected an earlier proposal worth €130 million. The latest offer is part of an aggressive attempt by Al Hilal to convince the Turkish champions to sell one of their most important players.

According to a report by KooraBreak, Prince Nawaf has told Galatasaray that he will come to Istanbul himself if negotiations become formal.

That would put the Al Hilal president directly into talks with Galatasaray president Dursun Özbek at a time when

Osimhen quickly became centhe Saudi club is trying to force tral to Galatasaray’s attack and a breakthrough.

Al Hilal have also put a huge has also attracted attention from salary package on the table. clubs in England. Arsenal have Osimhen has reportedly been been linked with the 27-year-old offered €50 million a year, adding this summer, while Tottenham anothermajorfinancialincentive and other Premier League clubs to a transfer that could become have also been mentioned in one of the most expensive deals reports around his future.

The Saudi proposal is espein football history.

Earlier reports revealed that cially significant because OsimGalatasaray rejected the €150 hen has spoken openly about million proposal despite the his desire to play in England.

In March 2023, while still at increase from the initial €130 million offer, claiming that Napoli, Osimhen told reportÖzbek had made it clear that ers that playing in the Premier the club did not want to sell League was his dream. He said he was working hard to achieve that Osimhen.

Galatasaray’s position creates goal but described it as a process. a difficult problem for Al Hilal. Sky Sports reported at the time that The Turkish club paid Napoli Manchester United were among €75 million to sign Osimhen the clubs interested in him, while permanently last year, making Liverpool, Tottenham and Chelsea him the most expensive player hadpreviouslytrackedhimduring his time at Lille. in Turkish football.

Venue Issues Cast Doubt on Fury-Joshua Clash Tyson Fury believes his highlyanticipated fight with Anthony Joshua will fall apart after his longtime rival revealed fresh demands to move the bout to New York.

The pair had signed to fight earlier this year, but an official date or venue is yet to be confirmed.

Rumours have begun swirling around the world of boxing that the monumental showcase will take place on November 20 at Madison Square Garden in New York - despite Joshua’s plea to have the dust-up held at Wembley Stadium.

But Netflix and the Saudi

Arabian moneymen behind the all-British clash want to stage it in the Big Apple. After weeks of ongoing negotiations, it would appear that ‘AJ’ is now open to facing his long-time rival at the MSG - provided he is compensated financially.

Following Joshua’s fresh demands, Fury was quick to brutally hit back at both ‘AJ’ and Matchroom supremo, Eddie Hearn in a scathing rant. In several videos uploaded to Instagram yesterday morning, the Morecambe brawler did not hold back in his assessment of his adversary.

The 38-year-old now believes that their fight will fall apart altogether.

“Quick update for you. It doesn’t

look like they are going to sign the fight and it doesn’t look like it’s going to happen,” he began.

“All because Eddie Hearn and AJ want more money.

“They’ve already had that much money off of Turki (Alalshikh) in the last few years, Eddie and AJ, yeah. They’ve had boxing deals, they’ve had darts deals, they’ve had snooker deals. They’ve had everything. And yet, they have got the audacity and the cheek to ask for more money from old Turki. You’re all disgusting, money-thirsty pieces of s***. It is what it is. Keep on running you little cowards.”

Springsoca Mainland Soccer Camp Building a Future for Nigerian Football, Says Amokachi

the kind of talent Nigeria On the street, you jump potholes just to score a goal and all those has,” Amokachi said.

The former Everton things. They are natural skills, and Former Super Eagles for- forward also hailed the or- you challenge yourself because ward Daniel Amokachi ganisers of the Spring Soccer everyday you have a ball around has hailed the standard of Academy for holding onto you and you have people to play the Springsoca Mainland their promise to make the with,” he noted.

Soccer Camp, saying that camp a continuous event. He admonished the kids to from what he has seen of “They have said that it is always be their natural selves the camp, Nigerian football definitely something that instead of trying to be the next Jay-Jay Okocha, Nwankwo Kanu, will continue.” still has a bright future.

Speaking in a chat with On whether he was ex- or Rashidi Yekini.

THISDAY, Amokachi, posed to such a camp during According to him, there can who was at the camp to his playing days, the Atlanta never be replicas of these players, and any new player can only be inspire and encourage the Olympics gold medalist themselves. participants, said such a said: “My generation didn’t “Do you think there’s any camp would definitely help have such an opportunity. player who resembles Victor the growth of football in the Everything started on the Osimhen today? Definitely street. We found ourselves not. You have to have your own country.

Asked what this kind of on the streets and, you know, character, your own personality, programme meant for the we learned what we learned to be who you are as a football development of Nigerian from the street. player. football, he said: “Grassroots “We didn’t have this kind “As I told the participants yesfootball has been neglected of support in my generation. terday, out of a million players for what feels like forever. That’s why we applaud it, taking part in camps like this, In my generation, we en- and we want to see more maybe only 10 will make it. And joyed it. And when I say of it.” that’s the reality of life. grassroots, I incorporate “The Bull,” as he is fondly “So, parents should let them school sports. When you called by his admirers, how- learn other vocational skills, go to see summer camps like this ever, admitted that players school, and study very hard to get being put in place, you just who emerge from the streets all the necessary certificates they have to give the organisers a are mostly more skillful than need because it will definitely thumbs-up because they’re those from academies be- help. cause they bring all the tricks “I stopped playing football doing the right thing.

“Most of the generational they have learned from the at the age of 27 because of the players you see representing streets to football. hazards in this game. You never Nigeria at the age-group “For any player who is know what will happen. So, levels are coming from the born in the ghetto, the skill you have to plan your life, and diaspora, which doesn’t element is different from that’s where parents come in,” make sense considering players from an academy. he noted.

Kunle Adewale

Argentine Midfielder Given 10-month Ban for World Cup Role Argentina midfielder Lean- breaches of the Fifa disciplinary Islands, a British overseas terdro Paredes has been given a code relating to using a sports ritory.

10-match ban for the role he event for demonstrations of Last month, Fifa appointed played in on-field clashes a non-sporting nature, team a disciplinary and ethics prosafter his side were beaten 1-0 misconduct, and discrimina- ecutor to assess what happened

by Spain in the 2026 World tory chants and gestures by its after the final whistle at the New Cup final. supporters.

York New Jersey Stadium, when Fifa’s disciplinary committee Fifa have ordered that $100,000 multiple Argentina players and has also handed his team-mate (£73,000) of the fine must be backroom staff were involved in Nahuel Molina a seven-match invested in a plan to combat altercations with Spain players. suspension. discrimination - and $100,000 As well as their suspensions, Argentina have also been (£73,000) of the fine is suspended, Paredes and Molina will both ordered to play their next with a probationary period to pay fines of $90,000 (£66,000). two home matches with 50% apply.

ParedesgrabbedEricGarciaby capacity, though one match of After defeating England 2-1 the throat and wrestled Spain’s that sanction is suspended. in the World Cup semi-final, Gavi to the ground, before apThe Argentinian Football several Argentina players held pearing to strike the latter in the Association (AFA) has been up a banner claiming Argentine face. fined $321,000 (£235,000) for sovereignty over the Falkland

Andrew Uwe Named 2nd Ambassador of Senate President Unity Cup

TheGrassrootsSportsFederation, South-South(GRASOF),inpartnershipwiththeOfficeofthePresident of the 10th Senate, has announced theappointmentofretiredNigerian footballerandformernationalteam Captain,AndrewUwe,asanAmbassadorforthe10thSenatePresident National Unity Cup scheduled to hold inAkwa Ibom State.

The appointment recognises Uwe’s lifelong commitment to grassrootsfootball,leadership,and youthdevelopment—valuesthatsit

attheheartoftheUnityCupmission.

Born in Lagos and discovered through the Principal’s Cup and YSFON competitions, Uwe rose through Igbobi College and the UniversityofIbadanbeforeleading Nigeria to continental glory.

Ascaptain,heledtheFlyingEagles to win the 1985 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations and a historic 3rd place finish at the 1985 FIFA U-20 World Cup.HealsorepresentedNigeriaat the1988AfricaCupofNationsfinal, the1990AFCONfinal,andthe1988

Seoul Olympics.

His professional career spanned Nigeria, Belgium, Germany, and the USA, with notable achievements including promotion to the 2. Bundesliga with VfB Oldenburg in1996. Sinceretiring,UwehastransitionedtocoachingwithaGerman Elite License and UEFAB License.

Hehasworkedwithyouthteamsin Germanyand,sinceNovember2020, servesasHeadCoachofVandrezzer FC Academy in Nigeria, where he mentorsthenextgenerationoftalent.

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T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R • SATURDAY AUGUST 22, 2026

NEWS XTRA

CAPACITY BUILDING FOR NIS OFFICIALS...

L-R: Deputy Superintendent, Nigerian Immigration Service, Sylvanus Chiemerem; Assistant Comptroller Kabiru Duda; Chief Superintendent Joy Ebikwe; Commandant Tony Akuneme; Superintendent Denise Shaba; Deputy Comptroller Timothy Ginshik, and Superintendent Mary Sowemimo, after a three-day Hostmanship training for Cadets of Immigration Training School Kano, organised by the team from Immigration Headquarters in Abuja…yesterday

2027: INEC Reaffirms Commitment to Free, Fair Elections, Democratic Integrity IRI issues advisory on conduct of transparent, credible 2027 general election

Adedayo Akinwale and Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said that its primary mandate, which is to deliver free, fair, credible, transparent, and inclusive elections in 2027 that accurately reflect the sovereign will of the Nigerian people remains clear and nonnegotiable.

This was as the International Republican Institute (IRI) has offered the Nigerian government a series of recommendations which it believes will help bolster transparency, voter participation, peaceful elections and trust if implemented ahead of the 2027 general election.

INEC also reassured the

international community of its independence, neutrality, and unyielding commitment to democratic integrity, as clearly demonstrated in the August 15 Osun State governorship election.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, stated this yesterday in Abuja when the Canadian High Commissioner, Pasquale Salvaggio, led a team to the commission.

Amupitan noted that Canada has consistently stood out as a dependable international partner in supporting Africa's democratic growth.

He stressed that over the years, Canada’s international development initiatives had meaningfully supported electoral governance, civic education, public institutional

Alleged Cybercrime: Olukoyede Orders Withdrawal of Charges against Shehu, Abdulhamad

Alex Enumah in Abuja

The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has ordered the withdrawal of charges preferred against Maryam Isah Shehu and Abubakar Shuraim Abdulhamad.

Both were arraigned on Thursday before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of a Federal High Court, Abuja, on allegations bordering on cybercrime and peddling malicious information against the commission.

However, barely 21 hours after their arraignment, the anti-graft agency boss ordered the withdrawal of the charges against them on compassionate grounds, a statement from the spokesperson of the commission, Dele Oyewale, disclosed yesterday.

He stated that while the commission considered

the arraignment of the two defendants for cyber stalking to be contrary to Section 24(2) (c) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc) Act, 2015 (As Amended) 2024 and punishable under Section 24 (2) (c) (ii) of the same Act, the Executive Chairman, nonetheless, considered the passionate pleas and apologies of Shehu’s father and appeals of well-meaning Nigerians for leniency.

"To this end, he has directed that charges filed against the two young Nigerians be dropped and warned that the EFCC would no longer tolerate any wilful attack on its image in any form, medium or platform.

"The EFCC’s boss assured Nigerians that the Commission would continue to function in line with its assigned mandate and in the best interests of the nation," the statement read in part.

strengthening, and gender inclusion across Nigeria.

Amupitan noted that the commission welcomed Canada's continued interest, constructive engagement, and technical support as we build a more resilient electoral system for Nigeria.

He said, “Our primary mandate at INEC, which remains clear and nonnegotiable, is to deliver free, fair, credible, transparent, and inclusive elections that

accurately reflect the sovereign will of the Nigerian people.”

To achieve this, Amhoitan emphasised that the commission has treated every off-cycle election as a crucial proving ground for reform and operational perfection.

He explained that the commission has systematically tested and enhanced its operational frameworks across major electoral exercises—from the Anambra governorship election and the FCT Area

Council polls to the Ekiti governorship election.

The chairman added that INEC remained focused on its shared priorities: enhancing voter participation, ensuring the security of the ballot, and building public trust in the electoral system.

Amupitan said the commission’s performance in the Osun State governorship election, conducted on Saturday, 15th August 2026, represented a benchmark in electoral

administration.

“Trough early morning logistics deployment — where 3,556 out of 3,763 Polling Units (94.5 per cent) opened for accreditation and voting precisely by 8:30a.m.— optimal BVAS field performance, seamless result upload on the IReV portal, and proactive crisis management, Osun demonstrated what is possible when administrative foresight meets technological fortitude.

Enugu Targets Acquisition of 1,000 Tractors to Drive Its Farm Mechanisation Initiative Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Enugu

Enugu State Government has reiterated its commitment to acquire 1,000 tractors as it ploughs ahead to attain full mechanisation of farming activities in line with Governor Peter Mbah's agenda of transforming agriculture into a money-spinning sector.

To achieve this set objective, the state has already established an agricultural mechanisation hub,

the Nortra Tractor Assembly Plant and Service Centre in partnership with investors from Denmark.

The state Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Patrick Nwabueze Ubru, said that the assembly plant has been functionalised to ensure that the state meets its target of putting 1,000 tractors to work in the farms.

He told members of the Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists,

Enugu State Council (NUJ), during a facility tour of the tractor assembly plant, that the facility "is a game changer for agriculture in the state".

The commissioner recalled that prior to the inception of the Governor Mbah administration, Enugu State could only boast of a handful of tractors but now the state government has acquired no fewer than 150 tractors.

He assured that the state would in due course achieve its

target of owning 1,000 tractors as promised by the governor, even though the assembly plant has not commenced local assembling of tractors.

Ubru underlined his assurances by showing the visiting journalists a warehouse stocked with completely knocked down(CKD) tractor parts ready to be assembled.

"We can assemble 10 tractors a day and there's room for expansion," he said.

Seaman Schnapps Leads Cultural Renaissance At 2026 Osun-Osogbo Festival Bennett Oghifo

As thousands of cultural enthusiasts, traditionalists, and tourists converged on Osogbo for the 2026 edition of the Osun-Osogbo festival, last Saturday, Seaman Schnapps announced its presence not merely as a sponsor but as a brand with a mission; to lead Nigeria’s cultural renaissance from the front.

The Osun-Osogbo festival, recognised by UNESCO as one of the world’s most

significant intangible cultural heritage events, remains one of Nigeria’s most powerful platforms for cultural tourism and socio-economic activity. This year’s festival drew participants from across Nigeria and the diaspora, with the sacred grove serving as the spiritual centrepiece of celebrations that included royal homage to the Ataoja, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji, from princes and community leaders across Osogbo.

Speaking at the event, Nnenna Onyenacho, Senior Brand

Manager at Nigeria Distilleries Limited, explained the brand’s commitment to Nigeria’s cultural identity.

“Osun-Osogbo is not just a festival. It is a festival that promotes and celebrates our heritage, our culture and our origin as a people,” she said.

“Seaman Schnapps finds it relevant to be at this festival because it is the number one original prayer drink and it has been in existence for decades.”

Onyenacho noted that the brand has observed a growing

cultural reawakening among young Nigerians and Africans globally; a shift the brand is actively supporting. “Recently, we have noticed that Africans and Nigerians are beginning to realise that they need to come back to their roots and identify their culture and who they are. Seaman Schnapps is at the forefront of this campaign; to bring us back to our roots so that we know who we are and will be proud to identify our heritage in Nigeria and in the diaspora,” she said.

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SATURDAY AUGUST 22, 2026 • T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R

NEWS XTRA

GOLF AND NETWORKING SESSION FOR BANKERS...

L-R: Social Secretary, Association of Corporate Communication and Marketing Professionals in Banks (ACAMB), Macqueen Afolabi; Publicity Secretary, Abiodun Coker; First Vice President, Chinwe Bode-Akinwande; Past President, Rasheed Bolarinwa; Captain, Ikoyi Club 1938, Afolabi Balogun; Vice Chairman, Ikoyi Club, Bolaji Martins; President, ACAMB, Jide Sipe; Former President and current Board of Trustees member, ACAMB, Lanre Alabi; Head, Partnership and Hospitality, Golf Section, Ikoyi Club 1938; Second Vice President, ACAMB, Morolake Philip-Ladipo and General Secretary, ACAMB, Olugbenga Owootomo, during the Golf and Networking Experience, hosted by ACAMB to commemorate its 30th Anniversary celebration in Ikoyi, Lagos, recently

ATIKU’S SUBSIDY PROPOSAL SPARKS PRO-POOR STORM AHEAD OF 2027 criticism of his subsidy proposal, arguing that the economic circumstances that existed when the subsidy was removed in 2023 had changed significantly.

He accused the administration of imposing simultaneous fuel-price, exchange-rate and cost-of-living shocks on Nigerians, saying the resulting hardship could not be presented as evidence of successful economic reform.

According to him, increased government revenues and higher allocations from the Federation Account cannot be considered a sufficient measure of economic progress when households and businesses continue to struggle with rising costs.

Atiku argued that the administration should be judged by improvements in the living standards of Nigerians rather than by the size of government revenues.

He also challenged the federal government to explain what happened to the savings

generated from subsidy removal, arguing that Nigerians had yet to see sufficient evidence of the benefits of the policy.

Atiku maintained that his proposed intervention would be fundamentally different from the previous subsidy regime.

He said the policy would be “targeted, capped, budgeted, time-bound and independently audited,” with support tied to domestic production and safeguards against arbitrage.

He also questioned the continued appearance of energysecurity costs and petroleum under-recoveries in the accounts of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), despite the government's position that petrol subsidy had been removed.

Atiku cited figures he said were contained in NNPC’s audited accounts, including approximately N17.5 trillion in energy-security costs and petroleum under-recoveries,

comprising about N7.13 trillion classified as energy security and N8.67 trillion in under-recoveries.

He asked why such costs persisted if subsidy had been completely eliminated.

Atiku also criticised the argument that one of the benefits of subsidy removal was the increase in allocations to state governments through the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC).

He argued that increasing allocations to governments while households faced higher transport, food and other living costs amounted to transferring financial pressure from government accounts to citizens.

He further called on the Presidency to account for what he described as approximately N30 trillion in Federation Account revenues, deductions, savings and transfers, as well as the N12.8 trillion Service-Wide Vote contained in the 2026 budget.

Speaking further, Shaibu maintained that Atiku was not

advocating a return to the old subsidy architecture based on imported petroleum products, middlemen and unverifiable claims.

He said the Atiku Economic Recovery Plan (AERP) 2027 proposed shifting government support from imported refined products to domestic production.

Under the proposed arrangement, he explained, qualifying local refineries would receive crude at subsidised rates, refine it locally and supply the resulting products to the Nigerian market at lower prices.

Shaibu said the model would allow government to monitor the crude from allocation through refining and distribution, using technology to prevent diversion and arbitrage.

He argued that lower domestic refining costs would translate into cheaper petrol and subsequently reduce transportation, food, energy and production costs.

According to him, the proposal

would therefore be a production subsidy rather than a blanket subsidy on consumption.

Atiku has also said the intervention would be capped, budgeted and independently audited, with participating refineries required to pass the benefit of preferential crude pricing to consumers.

Shaibu maintained that the proposed intervention should be assessed by its impact on the wider economy rather than simply by its fiscal cost.

He argued that lower fuel prices would reduce transportation costs, which would in turn affect the prices of food and other goods.

He also questioned how the savings from subsidy removal had been deployed, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare and employment.

Experts Reject Return to Old Regime Despite presidential candidate’s

defence, leading energy and economic experts who spoke to THISDAY rejected a return to the former petrol subsidy system.

The Group Chief Executive Officer of HSI Energies Limited and former Chairman of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Nigeria Council, Chikezie Nwosu, said the debate should focus less on restoring subsidy and more on ensuring that the resources saved from its removal are used to improve the welfare of Nigerians.

Nwosu said the subsidy was necessary to remove because the previous system had impoverished the country while benefiting a limited number of individuals.

However, he criticised the manner in which the policy was implemented, arguing that the government should have phased the removal and allowed citizens to see tangible benefits from the savings before completing the process.

YARI BLAMES OTEDOLA, AKINFEMIWA FOR GEREGU N40BN BOND DEFAULT, ASSURES INVESTORS am advancing now to protect the company, and clear, dependable arrangements for the company's future obligations to bondholders,” Yari said.

He expressed confidence that the ongoing engagement would produce an acceptable resolution, stressing that the priority was to prevent the dispute from undermining the company’s operations or the confidence of investors and other stakeholders.

Yari also sought to draw a distinction between the board’s oversight responsibilities and the day-to-day management of the company, noting that he was not involved in the daily running of Geregu Power.

He assured bondholders and shareholders that the company remained committed to meeting its obligations and maintaining sound governance.

“To our bondholders, our shareholders, and everyone who has built something lasting with Geregu Power: this company's obligations will be honoured, its governance will remain sound, and its future is not in question,” he said.

Agusto & Co recently withdrew

the ‘A’ credit rating it had assigned to Geregu Power and its N40.09 billion Series 1 Senior Unsecured bond following the power generation company’s recent default on the eighth coupon payment and fourth principal repayment.

The rating agency had said the withdrawal was prompted by both the default and its conclusion that it no longer had “sufficient reliable information” to maintain a credit rating opinion on the company and its bond.

Meanwhile, Yusuf, has alleged that former owner of Geregu Power misled the company’s new owners, MA'AM Energy Limited, over funds meant to secure its bond obligations.

Yusuf, while explaining the circumstances surrounding the default, said the entire N40.9 billion bond should not be confused with the amount that actually fell due for payment.

According to him, only about N6.026 billion was due as of July 28, 2026, while N40.9 billion represented the total value of the bond.

“This bond was taken in July 2022 and they had the repayments

ever since on both the principal and the coupon. The coupon here, for those of us who are not accountants or auditors, is the interest rate.

The interest rate has been paid seven times. The principal had been paid three times,” he said.

He explained that the bond had an initial moratorium period before repayment commenced, while ownership of Geregu Power changed in December 2025.

Yusuf said the bond was originally raised in 2022 to finance the acquisition of another power plant and was not intended to serve as working capital for Geregu Power.

“That bond was not taken as working capital. It was not taken to enhance Geregu Power Plant working capital in 2022. It was taken to acquire another power plant. And that failed. They couldn’t meet up with the BPE requirement, Bureau of Public Enterprise,” he explained.

He said following the failure of the proposed acquisition, the funds were expected to remain in an escrow or restricted account, where they could generate interest and subsequently be used to meet the bond obligations as they fell due.

According to Yusuf, the company’s records showed a bond payable of about N34 billion and restricted cash of about N31 billion.

“We went behind to carry out a review of their books and discovered that, yes, that money was kept in an escrow account, which is right, generating interest because since their business was unable to go on, that is, the acquisition of that power plant that the bond was taken for, couldn’t happen,” he said.

Yusuf said the restricted cash was expected to provide the funds needed to meet the bond obligations when they became due.

However, he alleged that when the new owners attempted to access the funds after the July 28 payment became due, they were informed that the money was no longer available.

“And unfortunately, they were told that that money had been utilised. Utilised by who? Yes, utilised by the former owners that handed over to them,” Yusuf alleged.

The lawyer further claimed that documents exchanged during the ownership transition had indicated that the funds were still intact.

“Part of that asset handed over to the new owners where correspondence were exchanged, that N31 billion that is in an escrow account confirmed to us its existence.

“And it was confirmed that it is there. And it is from there that liquidation should take place to take care of liabilities when they fall due.”

He said the discovery had left the new management with the challenge of sourcing alternative funds to meet the bond obligation and reassure investors.

“They have to go into another avenue of sourcing for funds to be able to meet up with their obligations as they fall due, to be able to assure and restore confidence of the bondholders,” he said.

The allegation has raised questions about the due diligence conducted during the December 2025 ownership transition and the representations made to the new owners regarding the company’s assets and liabilities.

Yusuf acknowledged that due diligence during mergers and acquisitions could not always uncover every issue, but said

the circumstances surrounding the restricted cash had become a major concern.

“There can never be 100 per cent due diligence when there is a merger or acquisition. It is when you have taken over that certain things will begin to reveal themselves,” he said.

The development has also raised questions about corporate governance and whether the circumstances surrounding the alleged utilisation of the escrow funds warrant further investigation by regulatory and law-enforcement authorities.

Asked whether institutions such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) could become involved, Yusuf said regulators were already aware of the matter.

“The regulatory process is already ongoing and that is why the new owners have not been able to come up with full details of what is behind the scenes.

The regulators are aware. The processes are already ongoing with the regulators,” he added.

Price: N400

SATURDAY AUGUST 22, 2026 • T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R

BACK PAGE LEAD PHOTOGRAPH

WE SHARE IN YOUR GRIEF...

L-R: Chairman, House Committee on Health Institutions, Patrick Umoh; Vice Chairman, House Committee on National Planning and Economic Development, Clement Jimbo; President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, and Executive Director Projects, NDDC, Victor Antai, during the funeral service of in honour of late former Majority Leader of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Imo Akpan Ibokette, in Abak Local Government Area… yesterday

OBINNACHIMA EDGY OPTIMIST obinna.chima@thisdaylive.com

Electoral Violence, Impunity and Nigeria’s Democracy

O

sun election may have come and gone and a winner declared, but the pockets of disturbing violence and intimidation that preceded and, in some places, accompanied the August 15 governorship poll should not be consigned to the dustbin of history.

If anything, the experience should serve as an urgent warning to Nigeria as the country moves towards the 2027 general election.

The issue today should not be whether the election was eventually conducted or whether the winner was declared. The more important question ought to be what has happened to those who used violence, intimidation, thuggery and other forms of coercion to influence the process. Have they been arrested?

Is there an ongoing investigation? What about those who sponsored them? Have they been identified? And, perhaps most importantly, will anyone be held accountable?

These questions matter because electoral violence in Nigeria has survived largely because of impunity.

Electoral violence ranging from intimidation, physical assaults to destruction of property and loss of life, before, during and in some instances, after the exercise, has become a recurring and deeply concerning feature of Nigeria’s political landscape, especially at the grassroots level.

This pattern undermines democratic governance, erodes public trust in electoral institutions and destabilises the political system.

In broad terms, election-related violence leads to deprivation of citizens’ rights to vote and compete, psychological, physical or even sexual violence that persons, particularly women suffer, with consequences for the victims and communities. It may also lead to the destruction of infrastructure with numerous negative economic and developmental consequences.

Already, the Imole Campaign Council of the Accord Party in Osun State said it has commenced a post-election review of electoral violence during the election, directing its structures across the 30 local government areas to document victims, including those who lost their lives or sustained injuries.

The election followed weeks of political tension and reported violence in parts of

Gov Adeleke

the state, including the killing of an Accord Party supporter, Ajayi Aderogba, popularly known as Rogba, in Esa-Oke in June. The All Progressives Congress (APC) also alleged that its members were killed.

The Imole Campaign Council had previously named Kolade Eluyera, Ezekiel Olapade, Ajayi Rogba and Timilehin Oni among those allegedly killed. It also listed several others it said were killed or injured.

The council had also alleged that more than 100 of Adeleke’s campaign coordinators and supporters were arrested and detained during the campaign.

Spokesperson of the Council, Pelumi Olajengbesi, said the review would cover every person affected by violence before, during and immediately after the election.

It said its headcount would include people who sustained injuries, families who lost loved ones and persons whose properties were damaged or destroyed.

“Every victim must be documented.

Importantly, this exercise is not party-focused.

Every victim must be documented irrespective of political affiliation, party membership or voting preference.

“Violence against any citizen diminishes us all, and no family should be forgotten simply because of their political persuasion,” he added.

According to a pre-election Security

Risk Assessment (ESRA) by the Kimpact Development Initiative, no fewer than 73 election-related violent incidents that resulted in 29 deaths were recorded. On the election day, the organisation revealed that 17 election-related violent incidents were recorded across 10 Local Government Areas of Osun State. The violence was said to have disrupted voting at Iroyin Ayo Open Space, Ward Elejigbo D/Ejemu, Ejigbo Local Government Area, leading to the cancellation of the election there. According to the organisation, gunshots, physical assaults and intimidation each accounted for five of the verified incidents, representing 29.4 per cent each, while harassment accounted for two incidents, representing 11.8 per cent.

These incidents may not have engulfed the entire state, but democracy does not measure its health only by whether violence becomes widespread. Even pockets of organised violence are enough to undermine citizens' confidence in the ballot.

Nigeria witnessed precisely this problem during the 2023 general election. Violence, intimidation and fear contributed to a climate in which some citizens were reluctant to participate. The right to vote is meaningless if citizens are too afraid to approach the polling unit.

This is why the issue of electoral violence must now be treated as a national security and democratic emergency ahead of 2027.

Nigeria has witnessed countless elections in which people were attacked, properties destroyed, ballot boxes snatched and voters intimidated. Yet the public is rarely told what happened to the perpetrators. Sometimes suspects are arrested. Occasionally, the police announce investigations. But the process often seems to end there. This creates a dangerous incentive.

Ahead of the 2027 elections, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and other relevant institutions should develop a joint electoral-violence intelligence framework ahead of 2027.

Security personnel deployed for elections must understand that their loyalty is to the constitution and the Nigerian people and not to political parties or politicians. Their responsibility is to protect voters, election

officials, candidates, journalists, observers and election materials.

They must intervene when criminality occurs without becoming participants in political disputes. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) also has a responsibility here. It can help reduce the opportunities for violence by improving the credibility, transparency and efficiency of the electoral process. The commission must therefore continue improving the reliability of its BVAS, result transmission, voter accreditation and result management.

Additionally, political parties must stop treating thugs as electoral assets. As long as political parties recruit, finance or tolerate thuggery, electoral violence will remain part of Nigeria's political ecosystem.

Signing of peace accords ahead of election by party leaders should be taken serious and candidates who incite violence should face disciplinary action in addition to criminal investigation where appropriate.

Yesterday’s warning by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to political actors that the Nigeria Police Force will not tolerate the recruitment or mobilisation of young Nigerians for political violence, insisting that the Force will not protect acts of violence, should be taken seriously by all political parties and their supporters as a clear warning that the 2027 elections must not be turned into a battleground for thugs and desperate political interests.

Disu further warned that the Force would not tolerate the possession or use of weapons for electoral purposes, attacks on political opponents, intimidation of voters, destruction of public or private property, or any other criminal conduct disguised as political participation.

The 2027 election must therefore be approached as more than another political contest. It must be treated as a referendum on whether Nigeria can conduct competitive elections without turning citizens into victims.

A successful election is one in which the old, the young, women, persons with disabilities, workers, traders, students and first-time voters can walk into polling units without fear, cast their ballots freely and return home safely and that is what we must all strive to achieve across the country.

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