SATURDAY 29TH MARCH 2025

Akinwale, Sunday Aborisade in Abuja and Seriki Adinoyi in Jos

of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, yesterday offered

Stock Market Gains N3.49trn in First Quarter 2025

Kayode Tokede

The Nigerian stock market appreciated by N3.49 trillion in the first quarter (Q1) of 2025 as investors reacted to mixed 2024 corporate earnings by listed companies on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX).

The market capitalisation, when compared to Q1 2024, gained N18.2 trillion on the backdrop of federal government’s reforms.

Since the beginning of trading in 2025, the stock market has witnessed sentiment trading by investors but the banking sector recapitalisation of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) sustained rally in listed banking stocks.

The market capitalisation that closed 2024 at N62.763 trillion, moved up by N3.49 trillion or 5.6 cent to close March 28, 2025, at N66.257 trillion.

A breakdown by THISDAY revealed that the stock market in January appreciated by N1.95 trillion, attributable to cautious trading by investors in some

companies quoted on the Exchange. In February 2025, it appreciated by N2.48 trillion to close at N67.193 trillion.

In addition, THISDAY’s checks showed that the stock market depreciated by N936 billion in March 2025 as investors shifted attention to money market instruments.

The Nigerian Exchange Limited All-Share Index (NGX ASI) advanced by 2,734.24 basis points or 2.66 percent to close March 28, 2025, at 105,660.64 basis points from the 102,926.40 basis points it opened for trading this year.

Managing Director, Globalview Capital Limited, Mr. Aruna Kebira, in a chat with THISDAY, noted that the stock market in Q1 2025 witnessed the tanking of inflation figures with the last reading at 23.18 per cent as against 24.48 per cent previously.

“That alone gives the capital market investors a moment of respite in Q1 2025.

“The yields in the money market are

not looking as attractive as they were in 2024, making discerning investors in search of better yields to consider the capital market as their investment destination.

“In the last MPC, the MPR was retained, including other metrics. This is sending positive signals that as the inflation figure and money market yields are downward-looking, the MPC would have a reason to tinker

the MPR downward. Which always is not fixed income friendly.

“The release of both the UFS and AFS of issuers into the market was another booster as 80per cent cannot be classified as lacklustre.

“Then, there was a follow-through with quality dividend declarations. We saw the banking sector pushing their limits with relish and are happy doing so.

“Zenith Bank and UBA declared N4.00 and N3.00 final dividend, while GTCO declared a whooping N7.03 as final dividend,” he added.

On his part, the Vice President, Highcap Securities, Mr. David Adonri, stated that the Q1 2025 was positive for the equities market as it appreciated by about 2.7 per cent.

“It is believed that discordant tunes from the banking sector regarding the postponement of the release of their full-year results made the market bearish in March 2025.

“Although their results were impressive when they were released in the last week of the month, it was too late to reverse the damage that had been done.”

He said, “The two percent decline in March 2025 depressed the overall performance of the market in Q1 2025.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, Husband Threaten Legal Action against Nwaebonyi

The Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, is facing potential legal action over alleged defamatory remarks made against Chief Emmanuel Uduaghan and his wife, Senator Natasha AkpotiUduaghan.

The legal representatives of both individuals have issued a formal demand for a public apology, failing which a lawsuit would be instituted

against the Ebonyi Senator.

In a letter dated March 27, 2025, with reference WIC/W/AB/W3/25, the solicitors representing Chief Uduaghan, a high chief in Warri Kingdom, and Senator AkpotiUduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, accused Nwaebonyi of making damaging statements during a television interview.

According to the solicitors, the remarks were aired on News Central TV and its affiliate platforms, including DSTV, GOTV, Startimes, and AVO.

During the interview, Nwaebonyi allegedly made derogatory remarks suggesting that Senator AkpotiUduaghan has a pattern of making false accusations of sexual harassment and implied that her marriage to Chief Uduaghan was based on coercion

Shiite Loses Five Adherents in Deadly Clash with Military in Abuja

Olawale Ajimotokan and Linus Aleke in Abuja

Some protesters were feared killed and several injured yesterday in Abuja during a crackdown by soldiers on members of the shitte sect, who were protesting for the liberation of the people of Palestine.

The Islamic Movement in Nigeria revealed that at least five of its adherents were allegedly killed by personnel of the Nigerian Army, during a procession to commemorate

International Quds Day.

It was however gathered that the bloody confrontation occurred after the US Embassy issued a security alert to its citizens about likely unrest in Nigeria.

The clashes escalated around Banex Plaza, Aminu Kano crescent in Wuse 2 District of Abuja, when security forces opened fire on the Shiite protesters during the International Quds Day procession to mark the last Friday of the month of Ramadan.

Heavily armed soldiers in

armoured vehicles mounted security checks in some parts of Abuja, notably under the Julius Berger Bridge, Wuse 6 just before yesterday's Muslim congressional prayers.

Soldiers also occupied the National Mosque and blocked the Southern Parkway access to the ground at the National Christian Centre.

Eye witnesses said they counted at least five lifeless bodies after the shootings.

The Shiites were also protesting in solidarity with people of Palestine in

the ongoing war in Gaza with Israel.

After the prayer, the procession, which was initially peaceful, gathered at Customs Office, but was dispersed by the security forces to Banex Plaza, where an escalation led to shootings.

Sheikh Sokoto, who spoke on behalf of the Islamic group, alleged that several of its members sustained gunshot wounds, with at least five deaths reported by eyewitnesses, stressing that the exact number of casualties remains uncertain at the time of filing this report.

According to him, “Today, being the Last Friday of the sacred month of Ramadan 1446H Marks the International Quds day, a day designated by Imam Khomeini as a day of significance in solidarity with the oppressed People of the World, particularly the Palestinians. “Quds day Procession and activities are being conducted globally in Britain, France, America, Germany, Australia, Sweden, Canada and numerous Countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America and the middle East.

ON 73RD BIRTHDAY, FIRST LADY TELLS TINUBU: YOU ARE MY KNIGHT IN SHINING ARMOUR

wishes included former President Goodluck Jonathan; Vice President Kashim Shettima; Senate President, Godswill Akpabio; Jubrin Barau, the Deputy Senate President, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, his Ogun State counterpart, Dapo Abiodun, Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, Minister of Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo; Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, and the All Progressives Congress APC.

In her short message, the First Lady also celebrated the President's courage, strength and resilience which, according to her, have contributed to their success today.

The First Lady in the Birthday message stated, inter alia: "I rejoice and thank God Almighty for His faithfulness in your life, over the years. I celebrate your courage, strength and resilience that have all contributed to who we both are today. May you live long, in divine health, joy, peace and prosperity. Happy Birthday Mr. President…My Knight in Shining Armor".

However, the President yesterday promised to continue to work hard and pray for the peace and stability of the nation.

Speaking with newsmen at the National Mosque in Abuja after observing two Rakat Jumaat prayers to commemorate his 73rd birthday, the President said "I prayed for our country to stabilise, keep in peace and safe guard our people all the citizens."

Asked how he feels as he prepares to mark his 73rd birthday today, Tinubu expressed joy and gratitude to Almighty Allah for safeguarding him throughout his life and for answering his prayers.

"I feel good, I feel happy and we give thanks to Almighty Allah that has protected us so far and continue to answer our prayers, accept our Ibadah that is key and very important to all of us," he said.

The President added that he found renewed inspiration to recommit himself to serving and upholding his dedication to the Nigerian nation.

According to him: "Well, the word for all of these is hard work, you work harder, you pray harder. That is the inspiration that I got from all of these. We thank God Almighty that at this stage we are in it."

Tinubu had earlier joined other Muslims at the National Mosque for a special prayer session for the nation to mark his birthday.

Welcoming the President into the Congregation, Imam of the National Mosque, Prof. Muhammad Kabir Adam, thanked the President and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for catering to the poor and needy during Ramadan.

On his part, the Malami Ubandoma of Ilorin Emirate, Dr. Abdulkadir Salman Solagberu, thanked Tinubu for the several donations and assistance given to Nigerians during the Ramadan fasting period.

According to him, Muslims across the country have been praying for the President to succeed in tackling all the challenges facing the country while they also uphold him in prayers of long life and good health.

The Imam quoted from the hadith of Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) saying the Prophet encourages Muslims to share with the less privileged most importantly during Ramadan thereby accruing rewards that transcends beyond the present world to the hereafter .

"Muslims in the country have been praying for the country and they have been praying that may Almighty Allah give you long life good health, strength and you will continue to control all the challenges and to find solution to challenges facing millions of Nigerians across the country.

"Let us continue in all Ibadah the Tarawih and Ta'ajud, helping the less privilege and coming to the aid of the needy and coming to the aid of those who do not have.

"Mr. President Allah is with you and you will succeed", Imam Sholagberu further said.

President used the occasion to commemorate his 73rd birthday, dedicating himself to spiritual reflection and supplication for Nigeria's continued peace, progress, and prosperity.

Jonathan Felicitates President Former President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan extended his goodwill and warm wishes to President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the occasion of his 73rd birthday.

Jonathan in a birthday message he personally signed, congratulated Tinubu and acknowledged his service to the nation, especially his contributions towards restoring democracy after a long spell of military rule.

The former President stated: “I join your family and fellow compatriots in celebrating and congratulating you as you mark your birthday.

“I acknowledge your service to our dear nation especially your role in the

pro-democracy movement that led to the return of the current democratic dispensation.”

Jonathan noted that as a leader, President Tinubu has “shown remarkable dedication in making your own contributions to the development of our nation, serving as a critical opposition voice and as the Governor of Lagos State and now President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

Abiodun Congratulates Tinubu

Ogun State Governor congratulated President Bola Tinubu on the occasion of his 73rd birthday, describing him as a thoughtful leader of inestimable value.

Abiodun, in a congratulatory message signed in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital said the President remains an architect of reformed Nigeria, with exemplary courage and selflessness to change the old order and transform Nigeria to an enviable height.

He added that Tinubu, through strong conviction and unassailable determination has achieved what many of his predecessors could not achieved for decades, noting that the President deserves accolades from all Nigerians .

Prince Abiodun, therefore wished President Tinubu more fulfilled years ahead in sound health and functional mind to maximally achieve his renewed hope agenda.

President remains a leading light across Africa as a strong proponent of democratic ethos and good governance.

Gov Mbah Salutes Tinubu

Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah congratulated President Bola Tinubu on his 73rd birthday.

Mbah saluted the president's devotion to service and building brotherly understanding among the various sections of the nation.

In a birthday message to Tinubu, the governor stated, "On behalf of the Government and the good people of Enugu State, this is wishing you a happy 73rd birthday.

"Yours has been a life devoted to service and nurturing a deeper understanding and sense of brotherhood amongst Nigerians. These are enduring values and the hallmarks of true statesmanship.

"We wish you many more years

in good health and joy. We also pray God to order your steps and grant you His uncommon grace as you guide our nation through these challenging times to a prosperous and surer future."

Shettima Canvasses Prayers for Nigeria, Tinubu

Vice President Kashim Shettima yesterday called on Nigerians to continue to pray for the leadership of President Tinubu and peace, stability and progress in Nigeria.

Specifically, the Vice President sought prayers for God to continue to give the President wisdom and strength to pilot the affairs of the country towards peace, unity and prosperity.

Shettima who made call during the closing ceremony of Tafsir (reading of the Quran) for the month of Ramadan in the State House Mosque in Abuja, noted that prayer remains the fortress of the believer, the sanctuary where hopes are nurtured and destinies are shaped.

He said: "It is our greatest weapon against despair and the most powerful armour for those entrusted with leadership. In this spirit, I urge us all to continue praying for our beloved nation and the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.

"May Almighty Allah grant him the wisdom, strength, and resolve to continue steering the ship of our great nation towards peace, unity, and prosperity. May He protect him from harm, fortify his heart with courage, and guide his every effort in service to the Nigerian people".

The Vice President reminded the gathering that governance is a collective responsibility of all, and not the burden of the government alone, maintaining that "our religious leaders, whose voices echo the moral conscience of our society, play an indispensable role in shaping our values and guiding our hearts.

Akpabio: President's Passion for Nigeria, Contagious

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, congratulated Tinubu, on the occasion of his 73rd birthday. Akpabio, in a congratulatory message personally signed by him, described Tinubu’s passion for Nigeria’s progress as contagious.

He added that his vision and dedication to Nigeria are inspiring.

"Today marks a significant milestone in your life, and I am honoured to celebrate with you. Your leadership, vision and dedication to our great nation are truly inspiring.

"As Senate President, I have had the privilege of working closely with you, and I must say that your passion for Nigeria's progress is contagious.

"I must confess that Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is one of the greatest and audacious leaders Nigeria has produced. In your 73 years on earth, you have pursued a political career marked by a strong commitment to progressive democratic principles and the uncanny courage in tackling authoritarian regimes.

"As the President of Nigeria in the last two years, you have demonstrated astute leadership and as you advocate for democratic values and bold economic reforms that have started to yield dividends,” he added.

Mutfwang Felicitates

Tinubu

Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang has extended warm felicitations to Tinubu on the occasion of his 73rd birthday.

In a message, the Governor described him as a visionary leader whose unwavering commitment and foresight are shaping Nigeria’s path toward progress and prosperity. He lauded the President’s courage and resilience in confronting national challenges, fostering peace, unity, and strengthening national cohesion.

"It is with immense joy and deep admiration that I join millions of Nigerians and well-wishers across the globe in celebrating a statesman par excellence, a symbol of unity, and a towering figure in governance, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR on this remarkable occasion of your 73rd birthday," the Governor stated.

He further commended Tinubu’s steadfast dedication to restoring peace and stability across the nation, particularly in Plateau State, which is steadily reclaiming its reputation as the Home of Peace and Tourism.

He noted that the President’s tireless commitment to addressing governance challenges, fortifying national security, and mitigating economic hardships continueD to inspire hope and resilience

rather than mutual affection.

The statements, which quickly spread across social media, have been described as a deliberate attempt to tarnish the reputation of both individuals.

The law firm outlined the serious implications of the senator’s remarks, stating that they falsely portrayed Chief Uduaghan as a victim of blackmail and Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan as someone of questionable moral character.

According to the solicitors, the statements have caused significant reputational damage, leading to distrust and embarrassment among their political, social, and business associates.

The demand notice called for a written public apology from Nwaebonyi within 14 days, to be aired on News Central TV and widely disseminated across social media platforms.

Failure to comply, the letter warned, would result in legal proceedings against the senator to seek redress

among Nigerians.

Deputy Senate President Eulogises Tinubu

Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, eulogised President Bola Tinubu on his 73rd birthday, describing him as a visionary leader. Barau, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, said the President was working tirelessly to address the country's challenges.

He said Tinubu has demonstrated a life of dedicated service as one of the foremost advocates in the struggle for the attainment and entrenchment of democracy in the country.

He added, "In the past 22 months of President Tinubu's leadership, Nigeria is being repositioned for the benefit of both present and future generations.

“His initiatives are already bearing fruit, as evidenced by the continuous derease in food prices, exchange rate stabilisation and improved security." Barau, who is also the First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, urged all the citizens to continue to pray for the country and to offer their full support to President Tinubu as he works tirelessly to ensure a better life for all citizens.

Keyamo: It Will Take Decades for Nigerians to Appreciate Value Tinubu Brought to Nigeria’s Democratic Space

Minister of Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, in his birthday message yesterday, wrote: “From an insider perspective, I dare say it will take decades before Nigerians truly and fully understand and appreciate the value President Bola Tinubu has brought into our democratic space in all ramifications and the audacity with which he has taken on some of our key systemic challenges as a nation, root and branch.

“Doubtless, in post-colonial Nigeria, he has been a master at fostering progressive coalitions for the ultimate advancement of democracy. Firstly, he played a very pivotal role in the formation and sustenance of NADECO to oust the Military and restore democratic governance in Nigeria.

BIRTHDAY PRAYERS FOR PRESIDENT TINUBU…

Tinubu, Okpebholo Order Probe into Killing of Travellers in Edo

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja and Segun Awofadeji in Gombe

President Bola Tinubu yesterday condemned the murder of some travelling hunters intercepted by local vigilantes in the Uromi community of Esan North Local Government of Edo State.

Equally, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has ordered a probe into the killing of the 16 hunters said to be northerners who were allegedly burnt to death on Thursday by a mob on the suspicion that they were kidnappers.

This was as different organisations and individuals expressed outrage over the gruesome murder of the

hunters. The Northern States Governors' Forum (NSGF), Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) and Edo State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) strongly condemned the killing of the travelers by a mob in Edo State.

In the same vein, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, has condemned the killing of northern travellers in Uromi, and urged security agencies to immediately go after the perpetrators.

Initial reports indicate that the victims were travelling through the town from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, when they were intercepted on suspicion of being criminals by the local vigilante members.

President Tinubu, who expressed

Hail Dangote over Impact of National Food Relief Programme

Sunday Ehigiator

The Chairman of the Aliko Dangote Foundation and Africa’s wealthiest person, Ahaji Aliko Dangote, has continued to draw widespread commendation over the socioeconomic impact of his national food relief programme, as the Foundation continues the distribution of 80,000 units of 10kg bags of rice to the vulnerable in Lagos State.

The Lagos flag-off of the nationwide rice distribution took place on March 18, at a well-attended programme at the State Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, where Dangote was represented by an Executive Director of the Group, Hajiya Mariya Dangote, and received by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and top government officials.

Since the commencement of the distribution across the 20 local government areas in Lagos metropolis, there has been a gale of commendations for Dangote for his humaneness and heart of care in giving back to the society and assuaging the hunger of the less privileged and vulnerable in the society.

The distribution of rice is taking place simultaneously with the existing daily distribution of thousands of

loaves of bread in Lagos to the needy.

To ensure a hitch-free and seamless distribution exercise in Lagos State, the 80,000 10kg bags of rice were allocated to various groups and associations.

These include People Living with Disabilities, Market Women and Men, Non-Indigenes (Arewa, Ndigbo and South-South), Religious Groups, Artisans, National Youth Council of Nigeria, Joint Community Development Association, NUT, Hunters association, among others. Chairman of Agbado Oke-Odo Local Council Development Authority (LCDA), Mr. Olabowale Kasumu, who supervised the distribution at the LCDA, was quoted in a statement to have commended the Aliko Dangote Foundation, headed by the Managing Director/CEO, Mrs. Zouera Youssoufou for the wonderful gesture which he said has brought smiles and relief to many Nigerians. Kasumu, who is also the Lagos State CDC Welfare officer said, “Aliko Dangote is a Nigerian that has chosen to be different. You have choices but you have made the right one which is caring for the vulnerable. I appreciate Aliko Dangote for extending his kind gestures to the people at the bottom of the pyramid.”

shock at the dastardly act in a statement by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, directed Police and other security agencies to conduct swift and thorough investigations and punish the suspected culprits.

Tinubu commiserated with the families of the affected victims and assured them that criminals would not be allowed to shed the blood of innocent Nigerians in vain.

The President noted that jungle justice has no place in Nigeria, and all Nigerians have the freedom to move freely in any part of the country.

Tinubu commended Okpebholo, and community leaders in Uromi for their swift response to avert the escalation of tension.

Meanwhile, Okpebholo in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Fred Itua, strongly condemned the barbaric act allegedly committed by members of a local vigilante.

Okpebholo who visited the town yesterday, to assess the situation, expressed dismay over the heinous killings. He condemned the action of the vigilante members in the strongest terms and promised justice for the victims.

The governor said there was no excuse for the vigilante members to take the law into their hands without recourse to statutory law enforcement agencies.

He directed the State Police Command and other security agencies to conduct thorough and speedy investigations into the matter and bring those found culpable to book.

He also charged the community to work with the security agencies to fish out the culprits.

Okpebholo also commended community leaders, especially the leadership of Arewa community in

the area, for de-escalating tensions and handling the situation with restraint. In a related development, the NSGF vehemently condemned the horrific murder of travelers from Northern Nigeria in the Udune Efandion community of Uromi, Edo State. The Chairman of Northern States Governors' Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, described the attack as a gross violation of human rights, stressing that extrajudicial violence is entirely unacceptable and must be unequivocally condemned with the utmost severity.

EFCC: Achimugu’s Investigation Has Nothing to Do with Atiku, Sanwo-Olu

Alex Enumah in Abuja

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), yesterday reacted to media reports linking its investigations of Ms. Aisha Achimugu with alleged political undercurrents involving former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

In a statement yesterday, the Commission stated: “We wish to state unequivocally that the investigations of Achimugu have no correlation of any kind with the two political actors. She is being investigated for alleged criminal conspiracy and money laundering and has since been declared Wanted by the Commission.

“The EFCC commenced investigation of Achimugu in 2022 and though she approached the court to obtain an injunction restraining

the Commission from arresting, investigating, inviting or detaining her for any alleged criminal act, the injunction was challenged and vacated on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 by a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja.”

It explained that the court had ruled that “…no court has the power to stop the investigative powers of the Police or EFCC or any agency established under our laws to investigate crimes when there is reasonable suspicion of commission of a crime or ample evidence of commission of an offence by a suspect.”

According to the EFCC, “the court further upheld the interim order of forfeiture of assets of Achimugu suspected to be proceeds of crime, dismissing her suit against it as lacking merit. The foregoing establishes that the EFCC’s case against her has no

immediate or remote nexus with any politician or any veiled or open reference to any political engagement or transaction. “

Earlier yesterday, the EFCC had declared the businesswoman and socialite, Achimugu, wanted over allegations bordering on money laundering.

Spokesman of the anti-graft agency, Mr. Dele Oyewale, disclosed this in a circular posted on the X handle (formerly tweeter) of the commission.

The circular read: “The public is hereby notified that Aisha Sulaiman Achimugu, whose photograph appears above is wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in an alleged case of criminal conspiracy and money laundering.

“Achimugu, 51, is an indigene of Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi

State and her last known address is 6C, Rudolf Close, Maitama, Abuja. “Anybody with useful information as to her whereabouts should please contact the commission at its Ibadan, Uyo, Sokoto, Maiduguri, Benin, Makurdi, Kaduna, Ilorin, Enugu, Kano, Lagos, Gombe, Port Harcourt or Abuja offices or through 08093322644, its email address: info@efcc.gov.ng or the nearest police station or other security agencies.”

The agency had in a letter, summoned Achimugu to appear at its Port Harcourt office on March 5 over alleged money laundering and a high-profile investment scam.

The letter, dated March 4 and signed by the EFCC’s acting zonal director in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Adebayo Adeniyi, was sent to Achimugu’s residential address in Abuja.

Police Enforce Ban on Durbar Amid Security Concerns

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

The Kano State Police Command has prohibited the upcoming Durbar festivities planned by the Kano Emirate Council citing the need to maintain peace and order across the state.

The state Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Bakori, told journalists in a press conference yesterday, the decision was made in collaboration

with relevant security stakeholders to prevent any potential disruptions during the five days Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.

The Commissioner of Police advised worshippers to conduct their Eid prayers at designated praying grounds, adhering to traditional practices.

"In pursuit of safe and secure celebration, and to sustain the relative peace and public order in the state,

the Command in liaison with other security agencies, having obtained and assessed the security situations in the state, especially the rising tension and uncertainties around the Durbar activities, particularly, the tendency to plunge the state into anarchy, made necessary consultations with the Kano State Government, the parties, and other critical stakeholders.

"As part of collective commitment to sustaining peace and security, a

ban has been placed on all Durbar activities throughout the state during the 2025 Eid-El-Fitr Sallah celebrations.

"This decision was made after consultations with relevant security stakeholders following credible intelligence reports indicating orchestrated plans by recruited miscreants and their sponsors to use Durbar as proxy to undermine security and public order".

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City, John Shiklam in Kaduna,

R-L: National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; Deputy Senate President, Jubril Barau; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Vice President Kashim Shettima; President Son, Yinka Tinubu; Deputy Chief of Staff of the Vice President, Sen. Ibrahim Hadejia, and others during the Jumat prayer to Mark President Tinubu 73 years birthday at the National Mosque Abuja...yesterday

PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI.

DOYIN OKUPE GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN...

South-east Governors Push for Tinubu to Honour Humphrey Nwosu

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

The five governors of the South-east have resolved to meet with President Ahmed Bola Tinubu to request for a befitting national honour for the former National Chairman of the defunct National Electoral Commission (NEC), Late Prof. Humphrey Nwosu.

This was coming as the former ArchBishop of Enugu Anglican Diocese, Rt. Rev. Emmanuel Chukwuma, has carpeted Senator Adams Oshiomhole and the entire Senate for accusing Late Nwosu of annulling the June 12th 1993 presidential election in the country.

The Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo and Minister of Works, Dave Umahi who represented President Ahmed Bola Tinubu at the funeral of late

Nwosu stated this in Anambra at the weekend.

Soludo who spoke during the church service to mark the burial of Nwosu said: "We must learn to change our style and devise a style of dialogue to get what we need from the government at the centre and not through fighting and attacks.

"For us in Anambra and the Old Aguata Union made up of the 45 communities in the three local government areas we shall honour and celebrate our son.

"After the funeral we the Southeast Governors would meet with the President over the national honour to our brother and we are sure that he will grant us that request," Soludo said. Umahi on his part explained that: "Mr. President has so much value for our brother Prof. Humphrey Nwosu

and in his message we are celebrating him for his profound contributions to the Nigeria democracy and we shall continue to cherish him and

his achievements.

"This is because he played very vital roles in the evolvement of the Nigeria democracy and governance

and while we were here the Secretary to Government of the Federation called to ask how we are and he told me that the family made two requests

and after discussions it would be granted and when that is done I will communicate to your governor about the outcome," he noted.

Bayelsa: Diri Warns against Planned Mega Rally By Wike’s Loyalists

FCTministerberatesgovernor,sayssecurityalarmbaseless,shameful No plan to stoke trouble in Bayelsa, group declares

Chuks Okocha, Wale Ajimotokan in Abuja and Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa

attend any rally.

Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO), yesterday released its audited consolidated and separate financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024, to the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) and the London Stock Exchange (LSE), with a record total dividend pay out of N8.03 kobo for shareholders.

The Group reported profit before tax of N1.266 trillion, representing an increase of 107.8 per cent over the N609.3 billion recorded as at the end of December 2023.

The performance reflected not just strong earnings but also the quality and sustainability of the bank’s earnings, underpinned by a welldiversified revenue base, robust risk management practice, and disciplined capital management.

The Group recorded growth across all financial and non-financial metrics and continued to maintain a well-structured, healthy, and diversified balance sheet.

The Group’s loan book (net) increased by 12.3 per cent from N2.48 trillion in December 2023, to N2.79 trillion in December 2024, while deposit liabilities grew by 37.8 percent from N7.55 trillion to N10.40 trillion during the same period.

Total assets and shareholders’ funds closed at N14.8 trillion and N2.7 trillion, respectively.

Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR)

remained very robust and strong, closing at 39.3per cent, likewise, asset quality was sustained as evidenced by IFRS 9 Stage 3 Loans which closed at 3.5per cent at Bank Level and 5.2per cent at Group in December 2024 (2023: Bank, 2.5per cent; Group, 4.2per cent) and cost of risk (COR) closed at 4.9per cent from 4.5per cent in December 2023.

Commenting on the results, the Group Chief Executive Officer, GTCO, Mr. Segun Agbaje in a statement said: “Our strong performance for 2024 underscores the resilience and depth of our business, driven by a well-diversified earnings base across our banking and non-banking subsidiaries, all of which are P&L positive.

“Our capacity to generate sustainable high-quality earnings, maintain strong asset quality, and drive cost efficiencies reflects the soundness of our long-term strategy and disciplined execution. We have also prudently provided for all our forbearance loans, well ahead of the June 2025 timeline, whilst fully accruing for the windfall tax, further strengthening our balance sheet and enhancing financial resilience.

He further added; “The total dividend of N8.03k for the 2024 FYE is underpinned by the quality of our earnings and is in line with our long tradition of increasing dividend pay-out year-on year. Looking ahead, we remain committed to building a Financial Services Group that thrives on innovation, operational efficiency, and sustainable profitability. GTCO to Pay Shareholders Record N8.03 Dividend for 2024FY

Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has raised the alarm that the purported mega rally and inauguration of a group loyal to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, is capable of igniting a crisis in the state.

However, reacting to the allegation, Wike urged Diri to face governance and stop stocking up baseless and shameful security alarms on a purported mega rally in his support.

The FCT Minister through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, he would have informed security agencies by himself if indeed he was going to

Access

He described as unfortunate that a governor with all the security apparatus available to him could go on national television on mere suspicion of people planning a rally, which is their right to hold.

Also, the factional South-South Zonal Secretary of the PDP, George Turnah, dismissed the security concerns raised by the governor over the rally in support of President Bola Tinubu and Wike, scheduled to be held in Yenagoa, Bayelsa in April.

Diri warned those planning such gatherings to have a rethink, saying his administration would not tolerate any act likely to disrupt the peace and order being enjoyed in Bayelsa State.

The governor, while cautioning about the looming danger and plot to breach the peace, urged security

agencies, Commanders, youths, elders and traditional rulers to be on the alert and take all legal measures to ensure the state is not thrown into crisis.

Speaking during separate meetings held with the Bayelsa Elders Council as well as the 37th session of the State Security Council (SSC) in Yenagoa, the state capital, Diri said holding such event at a time the political crisis in Rivers State had heightened ethnic tensions could degenerate into conflict in neighbouring Bayelsa.

He said the warning was imperative given that the FCT Minister had “threatened to cause crisis in PDP-governed states”, adding; “Any attempt to import the Rivers State political crisis into Bayelsa will be resisted.

“I urge security commanders

in the state to be on the alert. Parents and traditional rulers should discourage their wards and children from being used by unscrupulous elements to cause trouble in the state.”

Maintaining that the peaceful disposition of the Ijaw people should not be misconstrued for cowardice, Diri said the state would not allow a faceless group to foment trouble in Bayelsa, which is the homeland of all Ijaw people.

He said, “As you are aware, we have threats from our sister state. The political crisis there is threatening us and we will not allow what is happening there to come into Bayelsa State.

“We had in our party a renegade, who has decided to form a parallel PDP in Bayelsa State, working with an ex-governor.

Bank, Zambian VP, IFC Call for Action

on Women's Economic Inclusion, Challenge Bias

Nume

Ekeghe

The push for gender equality and women’s empowerment took centre stage at the Access Bank International Women’s Day Conference (IWD), where industry and government leaders, including Access Holdings' Acting Managing Director, Bolaji Agbede; Zambia’s Vice President, Mutale Nalumango; and IFC’s Regional Director, Dahlia Khalifa, and others highlighted the urgent need to break barriers and foster economic inclusion for women across Africa. The bank also celebrated ‘The Power of 100’, a distinguished group of trailblazers identified by the bank whose resilience, passion, and dedication serve as a beacon of

inspiration for the next generation of female leaders.

Speaking on this year’s IWD theme 'Accelerate Action, Inspiring Generations', Acting Managing Director of Access Holdings Plc, Agbede, in her opening remarks delivered a compelling message about dismantling gender biases and investing in women.

Agbede highlighted the journey of Nigeria’s first female combat helicopter pilot, who defied societal expectations that sought to limit her ambitions. She said, “Today is about breaking barriers. It is about ensuring that no woman or girl is ever told that certain dreams are not for her. It is about rewriting the narrative so that future generations never have to ask

whether they belong in boardrooms, in laboratories, in leadership, or in any space they choose to occupy.

“At Access, we don’t just believe in women’s empowerment, we invest in it. Through The W Initiative, we have provided access to finance, mentorship, and business support for women across Africa.

“At Access, we measure our success not just by profits but by the lives we transform. Today, we celebrate progress but we also acknowledge that there is much more to be done.

“Together, we can make the world and especially Africa a better place, not just for ourselves but for future generations. Let us rise to the challenge, support one another, and build a future defined by equality,

opportunity, and hope.”

Agbede highlighted Access Bank’s commitment to financial inclusion, particularly through its W Initiative, which has expanded across 16 African countries.

She said, “What started as a bold vision 15 years ago has now become a movement that has impacted hundreds of thousands of women, entrepreneurs, professionals, and young girls. Our expansion across Africa allows us to bridge financial gaps, particularly for women-led businesses.” She also lauded the achievements of the Power of 100 awardees. “Your achievements serve as an inspiration to us all. Your stories illuminate what is possible when talent meets opportunity.”

Kayode Tokede

L-R: Daughter of the deceased, Mrs. Olayemi Agogbua; wife of the deceased, Mrs.Titilayo Okupe; Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun; other wives of the deceased, Mrs. Omolola and Mrs. Yemisi Okupe, during the funeral service of the late Chief Doyin Okupe, held at the Wesley Methodist Church, Nigeria, Iperu, Ogun State…yesterday

Office of the Vice President of the Federal Republicof Nigeria

73 Remarkable Years:

Saluting A Boss And Statesman Of Unwavering Resolve

As you mark your 73rd birthday, Your Excellency, I extend my most profound regards and deepest respect to you---not merely as my boss, but as a visionary whose unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s progress continues to inspire us all.

Your life’s journey reflects remarkable courage and wisdom. The commitment, dedication and passion with which you pilot the affairs of our nation through challenges demonstrates the depth of your experience and the clarity of your vision.

Your bold and necessary economic reforms have truly salvaged the ship of this nation. The benefits of these courageous decisions now manifest for all to see, bringing Renewed Hope and prosperity to our people.

Your administration’s game-changing economic policies—from the strategic removal of fuel subsidies to the unification of exchange rates and the revitalisation of critical infrastructure—have laid a formidable foundation for sustainable growth.

On this significant day, I celebrate the statesman, the reformer, and the leader that you are. May the Almighty Allah grant you continued good health, strength and wisdom as you lead our beloved nation towards the greatness it deserves.

On behalf of my family, I wish you a Happy 73rd Birthday, Your Excellency, Mr. President.

With utmost respect and loyalty.

Signed: Sen. Kashim Shettima, GCON Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria

Happy birthday, Mr. President...

The Plight of New Nigerian Newspapers’ Retirees

The plight of New Nigerian Newspapers retirees has reached assistance had proven to be nothing more than an illusion, leaving these senior citizens in a state of desperation.

The federal government’s pledge to provide a monthly palliative of N25,000 for six months to cushion the effects of the fuel subsidy removal has not materialized. Despite the initial hope and anticipation, not a single kobo has been paid into their bank accounts. This broken promise has left many retirees shocked, disappointed, and frustrated, with some even losing their lives due to inability to afford medical care.

Furthermore, the approved N32,000 monthly stipend increment, effective July 29, last year, remains unpaid eight months after. This is not an isolated incident, as many Nigerian retirees face similar challenges in accessing their entitlements. The negligence and lack of accountability in the system have led to a culture of unfulfilled promises, leaving our senior citizens to suffer in silence.

In Nigeria, statutory benefits are mandated by law to ensure employees receive certain perks, including paid annual leave, sick leave, and maternity leave. However, the reality on the ground tells a different story. Many retirees are unable to access these benefits, exacerbating their financial struggles.

The Pension Reform Act of 2014 requires employers to contribute 10% of an employee’s salary to their pension fund, while employees contribute 8%. However, the effectiveness of this law in ensuring retirees receive their pensions remains questionable.

For instance, a season of death has descended upon the retirees of the New Nigerian Newspapers, a company they toiled to build into a renowned institution. These senior citizens, who dedicated their prime years to the organisation, are now departing this world without receiving the rewards they deserved. The government’s indifference to their suffering is a stark indictment of its priorities.

The toll of death among these retirees has risen to a staggering 108 in a short span, a grim reminder of the government’s abandonment of its responsibility to care for its citizens. The lack of access to basic necessities like healthcare and nutrition has condemned these seniors to a life of misery, their twilight years marked by frustration and despair.

As we mourn the loss of many of these dedicated public servants, we must also demand accountability from the government. It is unconscionable that a nation can turn its back on those who have given their all to its development. The government must take immediate

action to address the grievances of these retirees and ensure that they receive the care and compensation they deserve.

To the surviving retirees, Let’s hold on to hope, even in the darkest of times. Your struggles will not be forgotten, and we will continue to advocate for our rights until justice is served.

Let us honor the memory of those who have passed on by fighting for a better future for our senior citizens. We owe it to them, and to ourselves, to ensure that their sacrifices are not in vain.

The government must take immediate action to address the plight of New Nigerian Newspapers retirees and other senior citizens facing similar challenges. This includes ensuring that all outstanding payments, including the promised palliative and stipend increments, are made immediately; reforming the pension system to ensure transparency, accountability, and timely payment of pensions, and providing additional support for senior citizens, including access to quality healthcare and social services.

The government’s failure to fulfill its promises to surviving retirees is a stark reminder of the need for accountability and transparency in governance. It is imperative that we prioritize the welfare of our senior citizens, who have dedicated their lives to serving the nation.

Ola Jones is a Lagos-based retired journalist

THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

EDITOR OBINNA CHIMA

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EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED

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GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU

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SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI

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DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

Witch hunts and Ritual Attacks in Ondo

Ondo State has been in the news for some

And it has become pertinent to situate these reports, identify underlying factors and drivers of these abuses, and explore ways of addressing them. Here are a few examples. In 2016, the police rescued a four-year-old girl caged by her parents for witchcraft. The foster parents claimed that she was possessed. They

related development in 2019, some youths prevented the police from arresting a couple who allegedly beat their four-year-old daughter to death for being a witch. The was not clear why the youths prevented the police from

woman, Abiodun, accused her mother of witchcraft and subsequently set her ablaze. Abiodun told the police that she went to someone for prayers. The person said that her mother was behind her problems and those problems would not go away until the mother died. So she went and got some petrol, poured it on her, and set her ablaze. The woman later died as a result of the burns that she sustained from the incident. Unfortunately, there has been no news about the current status of the case, that is if the suspect has been charged in court.

From the cases mentioned above, belief in demonic possession motivates people to accuse and abuse people for witchcraft. Witches are believed to embody and personify evil. People, who believe that their children or relatives are possessed by demons, treat such persons without mercy; they subject them to torture and inhuman and degrading treatment. Also, those who go to prayer houses, consult pastors, prophets and prophetesses, diviners or native doctors tend to accuse people and persecute alleged witches because these godmen and women incite them to commit violence; they make them tackle suspected witches in families and communities. Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged Witches

PROMOTING SPORTS IN SOUTH WEST...

Presidency to Atiku: Your Allegations against Tinubu Baseless, Infantile, Distracting

The Presidency yesterday formally reacted to recent allegations made by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar about unsubstantiated financial dealings involving Lagos State which he said was the subject of an Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) investigation.

The Presidency, in a statement issued by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga described Atiku's latest claims as baseless, unfounded and distracting. It also described the former Vice President's allegations as infertile and a transparent ploy to deflect from his political setbacks.

The Presidency, however, stressed that President Bola Tinubu remains focused and will not engage in petty political distractions.

The presidential release stated, inter alia: "The attention of the Presidency has been drawn to the unfounded allegations made by former Vice President Atiku

Abubakar, who claims to be the subject of an EFCC investigation regarding unsubstantiated financial dealings involving Lagos State.

"These claims, circulated through his media office, are false and reflect a troubling pattern of relying on social media gossip over substance. It is disheartening that a politician of Atiku's stature would lend credibility to baseless social media speculation to remain politically relevant.

"President Bola Tinubu remains focused on addressing critical national challenges and advancing his administration's agenda for Nigeria's growth and stability. The President has neither the time nor the inclination to engage in petty political distractions.

"Atiku's allegations are infantile and a transparent ploy to deflect from his political setbacks. His repeated attempts to drag the Presidency and now the Lagos State Government into fabricated controversies reveal a desperate bid for attention amid his fading

ADU Pledges Financial Empowerment for Women

The Asaba Development Union (ADU) Women's Wing, Illupeju Unit, Lagos Branch, has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering women financially.

The pledge was made during the union’s 20th anniversary celebration, themed "Empowerment."

Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the occasion, Chuck Nduka Eze, highlighted the struggles many Nigerians face despite their intelligence and capabilities.

"You look around Nigeria, and you see that a lot of people are suffering not because they are not intelligent or able, but because of the difficult economic cycle we are going through," he said.

Eze emphasised the importance of community support, revealing that ADU Lagos had initiated a financial assistance programme to provide small loans to women in need. Initially skeptical about repayment, he was impressed that every beneficiary returned the borrowed funds, allowing the cycle to continue.

"We expanded the programme so more people could benefit. Those who have been fortunate must remember their duty to help others," he added.

Eze also praised Asaba women for their resilience, recalling their pivotal role during and after the Nigerian

Civil War.

"After the Asaba massacre, when almost all the men were killed, many thought Asaba was finished. But the women took charge. Their sacrifices and dedication helped rebuild the community, ensuring children still went to school and families survived," he stated.

He acknowledged the contributions of the Asaba Ladies League, which provided post-war support, and underscored how the spirit of empowerment has remained a key trait of Asaba women.

President of ADU Lagos Branch, Dr. (Mrs.) Eugenia Nkiruka Taiye Williams, reiterated the group's commitment to empowering women, especially those without a stable source of income.

"For 20 years, we have been working to bring Asaba women together both wives and daughters. We provide financial support with interest free loans for small businesses, allowing them to repay in manageable installments," she explained.

She added that the union also distributes palliatives every two to three months to support struggling women. Looking ahead, she hopes to push for job opportunities for women through advocacy with key decision-makers.

attempt to cobble a coalition.

"Since his defeat in the 2023 presidential election, the former Vice President has failed to rise to the dignified role of an elder statesman. Rather than contributing constructively to the national

discourse, he has chosen the path of divisive rhetoric and unfounded accusations.

"We urge Atiku Abubakar to redirect his energy toward initiatives that foster unity, economic progress, and democratic stability—qualities

Nigeria urgently needs.

"Lastly, the former Vice President should know that the EFCC, as an independent institution, operates within its statutory mandate without external influence. Any insinuation otherwise is a disservice to the

agency's professionalism and the rule of law.

"The Presidency remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the pursuit of national development—priorities that demand our undivided attention."

Wike Accuses NBA of Hypocrisy, Destroying Legal Profession

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has taken a swipe at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), accusing them of hypocrisy and trying to pull down the legal profession.

He fired the rebuke yesterday, when he received the Body of Benchers, led by Chief Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) on a visit to him at Life Camp, Abuja.

He accused the NBA of the tendency of declaring a judgement of the Supreme Court as unconstitutional and illegal without reading the judgement of the court. He described the practice as unfortunate.

He urged the Body of Benchers to wield the big stick on defaulters, saying

they should watch and see individuals for whatever interest kill the profession.

He said the situation was not acceptable, adding that if nobody was disciplined, no lesson would be learned.

He said: "We shall no longer allow our profession to be pulled down. I cannot believe that as lawyers you make a contribution to help and you will be criticise.

He said: "You just heard judgement had been given, you did not even have the opportunity of reading it. The next thing you do is to go the national television to begin to criticise and nothing happen.

"We are scared of our judges to a point that a judge is going to mosque

or church, he cannot great somebody he knows; he runs away before he will shake somebody and people start saying he collected bribe.

"Somebody will write a petition and you will sit down to listen to the petition that bribery is given in the church; bribery is given in a mosque. I have never seen this in my life.

"When NBA was building their national Secretariat NBA wrote. nobody saw that as bribe.

"I was the only one who contributed to NBA to build the national Secretariat and I said 'name a floor after Rivers and not after me'. NBA didn't see it as bribe. When you contribute to benchers is bribe but when you contribute to NBA is not a bribe, they will take it. The same

NBA will rely on state government to sponsor them for whatever activities. that one is not bribe ".

He accused the NBA of talking about a state of emergency in Rivers because the state government had assured them of hosting their Annual General Conference. He alleged that now that no government was willing to bankroll the conference in Rivers State, they were making hues and cries by objecting to the emergency rule.

"What kind of hypocrisy is this? Sir, the time has come that you will all, 'Enough is enough'. We cannot continue to discourage our judges and justices. It is not done anywhere.

Tinubu Names Board Chairmen for NTA, 22 Other Parastatals

Deji

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Board Chairmen for the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), the National Automotive Council, the National Library of Nigeria and 20 other federal government institutions. According to a statement issued yesterday, by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, the National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Felix Morka, was named Board Chairman of the NTA, while Hon. Fatuhu Mohammed Buhari from Katsina State was named DirectorGeneral of the National Agricultural

Seed Council.

Other Board Chairmanship appointments into other federal government institutions were:

Mallam Muhammad Massan, APC State Chairman, Bauchi State – Board Chairman, Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute, Ilorin; Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas, APC State Chairman, Kano State – Board Chairman, Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service; Dr. Austian Agada, APC State Chairman, Benue State – Board Chairman, National Agricultural Seed Council; Hon. Macdonald Ebere, APC State Chairman, Imo State – Board Chairman, Federal College of Fisheries

and Marine Technology, Lagos; Ubong Stephen Ntukekpo, APC State Chairman, Akwa Ibom State –Board Chairman, National Institute for Freshwater Fish, New Bussa, and Chief Emma Eneukwu, Deputy Chairman (South) of the APC – Board Chairman, National Automotive Development Council.

Others included Aminu Musa Bobi, APC State Chairman, Niger State – Board Chairman, National Library of Nigeria; Abass Olayide, APC State Chairman, Oyo State – Board Chairman, Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Kaduna; Alhaji Mohammed Gadaka, APC

State Chairman, Yobe State – Board Chairman, Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre; Benjamin Omale, APC State Chairman, Benue State – Board Chairman, National Orthopedic Hospital, Enugu; Rufus Bature, APC State Chairman, Plateau State – Board Chairman, Nigerian Coal Corporation; Alhaji Abubakar Muhammed Kana, APC State Chairman, Kebbi State – Board Chairman, Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies, and Hon. Donatus Nwankpa, APC National Working Committee Member, from Abia State – Board Chairman, Project Development Institute (PRODA).

Ogun Court Jails Mother, Daughter for Stealing Stockfish, Dry Meat

An Abeokuta Magistrates’ Court in Isabo yesterday jailed a woman, Falilatu Amidu and her daughter, Ayisatu Amidu, for six months for stealing dry ponmo (cow skin), stock fish and dried meat valued at N1million.

The court, however, gave an option of N5,000 fine with a condition that Falilatu and her daughter must make a refund of N100,000 each to the

complainant as restitution before accessing the N5,000 fine.

The convicts, who are residents of the Ago-Oko area in Abeokuta, Ogun State capital, were convicted on a two-count charge of conspiracy and stealing.

The Magistrate, Mrs. O.O Odumosu, held that all evidence presented by the prosecution were proven beyond reasonable doubt.

Earlier, the prosecutor, Insp Kehinde Fawunmi, told the court that the defendants committed the offence sometime in August 2024 at Lafenwa market.

Fawunmi explained that Falitatu conspired with her daughter, Ayisatu, to steal a big sack containing stock fish, dry ponmo and dry cow meat valued at N1 million, belonging to one Mrs Kafayat Alao.

He disclosed that Falilatu used to help the complainant carry a load from her store in Lafenwa to where the latter sells her items.

“The complainant asked her to help her pick goods from the store, she waited for over an hour and she did not see the defendant, which made her go to the store to check on her.

Elumoye in Abuja

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

L-R: CEO and Founder of Ovation International, Chief Dele Momodu; Mrs. Abiola Aregbshola; President, SouthWest Games and Deputy Director of Sports, Lagos State Sports Commission, Akogun Lanre Alfred; DG, Lagos Sports Commission, Hon. Lekan Fatodu; Chief Folly Coker and Executive Director of First Bank, Seyi Oyefeso, at the grand finale of the SouthWest Games in Lagos…yesterday

COURTESY VISIT…

Ex-HoS, Nwaeke

Accuses Fubara of

Masterminding Rivers Assembly Bombing

Sole administrator approves salary payment for suspended political appointees, civil servants Charges security agencies to sustain peace

Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Blessing Ibunghe in Port Harcourt

The immediate past Rivers State Head of Service, George Nwaeke has alleged that suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara masterminded the bombing of the complex of the State House of Assembly, in Port Harcourt.

Nweke, who served under suspended Governor Fubara and was assumed to be his ally, claimed that the governor directed his Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie to commit the crime.

The former Head of Services made the claims in an interview he granted a national television last night.

According to Nwaeke, the suspended governor was afraid of suspected impeachment by the 27 lawmakers, which was why he allegedly ordered for the destruction of the Assembly complex.

He claimed he made the confession

willingly and not under pressure, saying that he was not pressured to resign.

Nwaeke alleged "It all started with the State House of Assembly, where the governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, directed his Chief of Staff to burn down the Assembly in a way to avert his suspected impeachment.

"That evening, Edison was in Government House with many of his boys, including the former chairman of Obio/Akpor, one Mr Chijioke Ihunwo. I was there with them when a bag of money was handed over to Edison for that operation.

"A day after that incident, I almost resigned, but I was very scared because I know the power of a sitting governor and he knew that I am aware of the whole plan."

The former HoS however, urged the leadership of the Nigerian Labour Congress to call their state chairman to order, saying he must not compromise

or be partisan as a democrat.

"Let me draw the attention of the Nigerian Labour Congress to call the attention of their chairman, Rivers State Chapter to order to avoid politicizing Labour.

“I am privy to several private meetings between the Governor and the Labour leader in the state and the largesse that accompanied each meeting to compromise the Labour Union", he added

Meanwhile, the Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd) has approved the payment of salaries for civil servants in the State Civil Service and public servants of the state government.

The administrator who ordered that the payment must be immediately, also approved the payment of salaries for pensioners and all suspended political appointees in the state.

Ibas recently suspended all political

appointees of the suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

In the statement signed by the new Secretary to the State Government, Prof Ibibia Worika, explained that the salary payment was for the month of March this year.

In a related development, Ibas yesterday charged all security agencies to collaborate with his administration to keep the state safer, peaceful and avert any form of breakdown of law.

The administrator gave the charge when he met with Heads of paramilitary organisations at the Government House in Port Harcourt.

This was as the Conference of Professionals in the Peoples Democratic Party (CP-PDP) has cautioned Vice Admiral Ibas to steer clear of the statutory allocation and all other funds accruable or released to Rivers State.

Also, Rivers State women from the 23 local government areas of the state,

Okupe Lived Life of Impactful Service, Says Abiodun

James Sowole in Abeokuta

The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has described the life and times of the late Dr. Doyin Okupe as a life of impactful service, resilience, and unwavering commitment and dedication to Nigeria, his family, and his faith.

Abiodun also said that the former spokesperson to former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan was extremely cerebral, kind, humble, and generous.

The governor stated this during the final burial service of Dr. Okupe held at the Wesley Methodist Cathedral, Iperu-Remo, Ogun State.

Noting that Okupe was very cheerful, smiling, and extremely slow to anger, Abiodun described him as a noble man and a warrior who fought for democracy.

"He was a media guru, articulate, and fearless spokesman. He was a professional in politics and not a professional politician; he was a very reliable, dependable, and principled man.

"He would not change his viewpoint or position because anyone tried to influence him, except out of conviction, out of an inner conviction," he said.

The governor said that the late Okupe did not define his personal relationships by his political beliefs, adding that his political beliefs did not ruin his relationships with him or others during his lifetime.

"As dogged a politician as he was, he did not define his personal relationships. He could take a political stance against you, but that would not stop him from having a good

friendship with you.

"So, he drew a line between politics and personal relationships," he said.

Abiodun urged the congregation and the people of the state to live a life of impact by treating other people the way they would want to be treated, adding that it is not only when a person becomes a politician that they can live a life of impact.

Earlier in his message, the Methodist Archbishop of Egba-Yewa and the Archbishop of RIYE, The Most Rev. Adegbemi Atanda Adewale, described the death of Dr. Okupe as a loss and a reminder of the impermanence of life and the importance of living a life that honours God and serves humanity.

The Archbishop charged the congregation and the people of the state to use their talents, time, and gifts to make a positive impact on the

world around them, saying that the life of Dr.Okupe was a testament to the truth that those at the helm of affairs, as well as the rich in society, should use their lives to impact the lives of the people around them.

The Most Rev. Adewale noted that the commitment of Dr. Okupe to the welfare of his people and family was evident in his attitude, adding that his legacy will continue to inspire both his children and generations yet unborn.

Some of the dignitaries at the burial service were members of the Ogun State Executive Council, Arc. Yemisi Suswam, former First Lady of Benue State, Hon. Kayode Amusan, Chief Alex Onabanjo, Senator Lekan Mustapha, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Mr. Tunde Rahaman, and former Ogun State Governor Senator Gbenga Daniel, amongst others.

Russia's Top Automaker Targets Nigerian Market

Russia’s largest automaker, AvtoVAZ, is making a significant move into the Nigerian market as plans for a local assembly plant gain momentum.

AvtoVAZ's entry into the Nigerian market aims to offer affordable, locally assembled vehicles to compete with imported used cars and other new models.

Nigeria's automobile market is one of the largest in Africa, driven by a growing population and urbanisation

This development marks a new

phase in Nigeria’s efforts to attract foreign investment and boost local manufacturing capacity, as the automaker moves forward with plans to establish an assembly plant in the country.

Techcabal noted that the automaker, AvtoVAZ, best known for its Lada brand of affordable passenger cars, SUVs, and commercial vehicles, was expanding into Nigeria as part of its strategy to diversify operations beyond its domestic market.

The company, majority-owned by the Russian government, plans to establish a spare parts hub and service center in Lagos by the end of 2025, marking a significant foray into West Africa's largest economy

The automaker also plans to establish a local assembly plant, a development which aligns with Nigeria’s National Automotive Industry Development Plan. This will reduce vehicle import dependency and encourage local production.

By setting up operations in Nigeria, the automaker is positioning itself to meet growing demand while leveraging the country’s vast market potential. AvtoVAZ has been expanding its footprint in the African market as part of its global strategy of seeking new opportunities in emerging markets amid geopolitical shifts and trade restrictions in its traditional markets. It plans to establish a spare parts hub and service center in Lagos by the end of 2025,

yesterday, gathered in Port Harcourt, the State capital, to seek God’s intervention concerning the state, following the ongoing state of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu.

Ibas, who noted that there cannot be any meaningful development without a thriving peaceful environment, said efforts must be intensified to ensure that criminal elements are not emboldened to cause insecurity. He described all paramilitary organisations as critical stakeholders in the fight against crime and criminality,

Dangote

Feeds 40,000

No fewer than 40,000 families may benefit from the Aliko Dangote Food Intervention Programme.

Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, said the donation of 40,000 bags of 10kg rice to the people of Borno State by the Aliko Dangote Foundation(ADF) will help cushion economic hardship in these families.

The governor made the statement at the flag-off of the Food Intervention Programme on Wednesday in Maiduguri, Borno State capital.

Aliko Dangote Foundation penultimate week commenced the distribution of one million bags of rice worth N16 billion across the 774 local government areas in Nigeria.

The governor was represented by the Director General of Borno State Emergency Management Agency(SEMA) Mr. Ali Abdullahi Isa.

He said, “Today marks a significant

acknowledging their contributions to ensuring a peaceful Rivers State. He urged them to participate effectively in joint operations that are geared towards degrading the capabilities of criminal elements within the state and contribute their quota in combating activities of criminals in the state. "If you have people who can conduct their legitimate business and they are not able to conduct their business as enshrined in our laws, then they lose out, and criminals take over control of the state.

Families in Borno

milestone in our collective efforts to alleviate the suffering of our people, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan.”

The governor said the generous donation is a testament to the Foundation's commitment to supporting vulnerable communities and promoting social welfare.

“We are deeply thankful to Alhaji Aliko Dangote and the entire foundation for their kindness and philanthropy.”

He urged the people of Borno State to continue to pray for peace, stability, and prosperity of the state and country.

Earlier, representative of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, Mr. Usman Muhammad, said the gesture is aimed at supporting government effort, adding that the Foundation focuses on improving the living conditions of Nigerians.

Kayode Tokede

Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI) has announced its 2024 financial year result and accounts with N980.7 billion profit before tax, about 160 per cent growth over N376.49billion reported in 2023 financial year.

The Pan-African financial institution on the Nigeria Exchange Limited (NGX) also disclosed a profit after tax of N735.9 billion in 2024, up by 179 per cent from N263.52 billion in 2023.

In the year under review, the Group announced N4.2 trillion gross earnings, about 131 per cent growth over N1.83 trillion in the corresponding period.

From the balance sheet position, the Group’s total assets rose to N43.3 trillion in 2024, 67 per cent increase over N25.92 trillion reported in 2023.

The major contributing factors to N43.3 trillion total assets include:

N15.35 trillion Loans and advances to customers in 2024, about 53 per cent increase over N10.03 trillion in 2023, while deposits from customers stood at N31.64 trillion in 2024, up by 66 per cent from N19.01 trillion in 2023.

Commenting on the 2024 results, CEO of Ecobank Group, Mr. Jeremy Awori in a statement stated, “2024 was a pivotal year for our Growth, Transformation, and Returns (GTR) strategy.

“We established solid foundations for our businesses to grow now and in the future. We delivered strong earnings and returns despite a challenging macroeconomic environment characterised by high inflation, currency depreciation across African markets, rising interest rates, and tighter regulatory conditions in key countries such as Ghana, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe.” Ecobank’s PBT Rises 160% to N980.7bn in 2024

L-R: Senators Osita Ngwu; Solomon Adeola; President of the Senate, Senator. Godswill Akpabio; Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters, Senator. Basheer Lado; Senators Onyekachi Nwebonyi; Titus Zam, and Asuquo Ekpeyong, when Akpabio visited Lado in his office… yesterday.

2025 ICOBA BUSINESS BREAKFAST MEETING...

FG Moves to Ensure Sustainable Power Supply to Public Health Institutions

The federal government has commenced measures to ensure stability and sustainability in electricity supply to public health institutions across the country.

It said the issue of poor electricity supply to public health institutions and the accompanying humongous bills is becoming very worrisome.

To this end, the government is proposing a National Dialogue on Sustainable Power Supply in the Health Sector to be hosted by the office of the Minister of State for Health either in Abuja or Lagos.

Against the background of recent reports of power supply challenges facing public health institutions across the country, the government said it has undertaken various initiatives, including a 50 per cent electricity subsidy for public hospitals and the provision of solar power mini-grids in selected hospitals.

Speaking during the inauguration of the implementation committee for National Dialogue on Power in the Health Sector, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, said there

was an urgent need for rethinking of traditional models of power generation and supply to hospitals.

The minister said the current situation in the energy sector requires a collaborative whole-of-government approach to resolve many challenging issues that are beyond the purview of the health sector.

"In all the hospitals that I visited, I have instructed the Medical Directors to explore various public-private partnership models, develop business cases, and draw up strategic plans of engagement that will attract private sector investments to boost their capacities in the area of alternative and renewable energy solutions.

"I encourage all public healthcare facilities to think in this direction and I believe this should be a priority agenda for the Committee of CMDs and MDs of Federal Tertiary Hospitals.

"These initiatives have however not been able to substantially address the challenges thus the need for an urgent rethinking of our traditional models of power generation and supply to hospitals.

"We can no longer afford business as usual in the face of mounting energy

AltSchool Africa Launches AI Initiative to Empower 10 Million Africans

AltSchool Africa, an edtech platform dedicated to equipping Africans with relevant digital skills, has announced the launch of the Artificial Intelligence for 10 Million Africans initiative.

Speaking at the launch ceremony in Lagos, the Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of AltSchool Africa, Adewale Yusuf, disclosed that the initiative will boost AI's adoption across the continent.

"This programme aims to provide free AI education to 10 million Africans, breaking down artificial intelligence, correcting misconceptions, and empowering individuals with the knowledge to embrace AI in their careers and daily lives," Yusuf said.

"The future belongs to those who are prepared. AI is no longer a technology of the future; it is shaping industries, economies, and everyday life today," he added.

Yusuf continued, "With this initiative, we are taking a bold step to ensure that Africans are not left behind. The initiative is more than an educational programme; it is a movement to create opportunities and bridge the knowledge gap."

Yusuf further explained that the initiative provides a structured AI learning path, starting with basic awareness and progressing to coding

and product development, with handson projects for practical experience. It collaborates with universities, tech firms, and government agencies to expand AI education across Africa. The courses will be available in multiple languages, including English, French, Swahili, and Arabic, with the participants receiving recognised certifications and career support to help them apply AI skills in various industries.

According to Yusuf, to achieve this goal, AltSchool Africa is inviting organisations, government bodies, and industry leaders to support and collaborate on the initiative.

Yusuf said, "We believe in the power of collective effort. AI for 10m Africans is an opportunity for organisations to make a lasting impact by supporting AI education at scale. Whether through sponsorships, mentorship programmes, or employment opportunities for certified learners, there are many ways to contribute to this vision."

The project lead of AI for 10 million Africans, Foluso Folorunso, noted that the scheme is designed to cater for learners at all levels, starting with foundational courses to introduce AI concepts and debunk misconceptions.

bills of our hospitals. The time has come for all hands to be on deck to relieve our hospitals of the burden of prohibitive cost of power supply which gulps hundreds of millions of Naira monthly," he said. Salako said it is the time to be creative and innovative to develop and adopt smart energy solutions that "will strengthen our health system and empower us to deliver on our core mandate of improving population health outcomes."

He explained that the key objectives of the dialogue will include; to assess the existing power policy environment against the urgency of the energy needs of tertiary health facilities and other public health facilities in Nigeria based on lessons from other low-middle-income countries

Among the terms of reference for the committee is to mobilise resources and attract investments for the sustainable electrification

of public healthcare facilities using a whole-of-government approach.

In addition, the committee is to be built from experiences of the current power situation and recommend best practices going forward.

Other terms of reference for the committee is to identify alternative and sustainable solutions by exploring renewable energy options, backup power systems, and energy-efficient solutions to enhance power reliability and develop a collaborative action plan

for monitoring the implementation of key agreements of the national dialogue.

The committee will also agree on mechanisms to strengthen publicprivate partnerships for electricity supply to public health institutions in the country and build consensus on policy and regulatory frameworks, funding mechanisms, and sustainability strategies for efficient power supply to tertiary health facilities and other public health institutions in the country.

Encomiums as Anyahara Bows Out of Civil Service

James Emejo in Abuja

It was a moment of tributes for former Coordinating Director, Accounting Standards and Sustainability Reporting, Financial Reporting Council (FRC) of Nigeria, Dr. Iheanyi Anyahara, following his retirement from the Federal Civil Service and 60th birthday celebration in Abuja.

Anyahara, who had an illustrious career as a public servant was also one-time acting Executive Secretary/ Chief Executive of FRC between March 2020 and May 2021.

The retirement/birthday celebration was attended by

dignitaries including the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive, Financial Reporting Council (FRC) of Nigeria, Dr. Rabiu Olowo.

Others are former Commissioner for Insurance/Chief Executive, National Insurance Commission, Mr. Sunday Thomas, as well as a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Wole Oke.

In addition, erstwhile Accountant General of the Federation (AGF), Dr. Oluwatoyin Madein, President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Chief Davidson Chizuoke Alaribe, were among other eminent personalities, colleagues,

friends, staff, family members and well-wishers who graced the august occasion.

Dignitaries who took their turns to celebrate Anyahara, said he was instrumental to the drafting of the Corporate Governance Code for the country.

In his remarks, Olowo, thanked Anyahara selfless work at the FRC, adding that he viewed the occasion with mixed feelings.

He said, "I wish this day didn't come, We'll miss a friend and dependable ally."

According to him, Anyahara offered himself as a trusted ally who

helped him in "understanding the terrain" on assumption of office as ES. Olowo, specifically described Anyahara as strong support to FRC mandate, a visionary leader and an expert in the financial regulatory landscape.

He further praised the celebrant's unwavering commitment to advancing good governance, stressing that "It's good to be dependable wherever we are".

Olowo particularly noted that Anyahara had never been found wanting on every assignment given to him, highlighting his prowess to get things done in record time.

Tinubu Mourns Ex-Oyo Gov Ajomobi's Daughter, Bisola

President Bola Tinubu has expressed his heartfelt condolences to the wife of the former Governor of Oyo State, Mrs Florence Ajimobi, on the passing of her daughter, Mrs. Bisola Kola-Daisi.

In a poignant conversation

with the bereaved mother on Thursday, the President conveyed his deep sympathy to the family during this time of profound loss, acknowledging the unexpected and heart-wrenching departure of a cherished daughter, devoted wife, and mother of three.

President Tinubu also

extended his prayers and support to Mrs. Kola-Daisi's husband, family, friends, and associates, remembering her as warm-hearted, industrious, and charitable.

He highlighted the enduring impact of Mrs Kola-Daisi's contributions as a successful

businesswoman and a trusted public servant in an advisory capacity, whose wise counsel in budgeting and finance was invaluable.

The President prayed for Almighty God's grace to receive her soul and provide comfort and strength to her survivors.

YOULEAD International Launches Initiative to Tackle Youth Unemployment

YOULEAD International, a youth-led organisation committed to bridging the gap between education and opportunity, has officially launched what it described as ‘Mission 10,000,’ a transformative initiative aimed at equipping 10,000 African youths with the skills, mentorship, and funding needed to secure meaningful employment and drive impactful change and innovation across Africa by 2030.

Founded in March 2018 by Mr. Martins Iyekekpolor, a statement explained that YOULEAD International has made significant strides in youth empowerment, training over 12,000 young leaders

across 13 countries globally and executing 34 impactful projects.

This impact, it noted, was evident in the testimonies of past beneficiaries.

Sandra Onajite, a recipient of a YOULEAD scholarship, was quoted to have said: “Before SKB 2.0, I had zero knowledge of most of the topics covered in the training. I was confused and lost, and my business was struggling when I got the opportunity to apply for a scholarship through YOULEAD. Looking back now, I am incredibly grateful. My digital marketing skills have been, and continue to be, invaluable to my business.”

Similarly, Aisiku Andrea, a

participant in the SKB Data Analysis Program, highlighted how the training transformed her ability to drive change, saying, “I am passionate about helping children with learning and genetic disabilities. Through the SKB Data Analysis Program, I have gained the ability to conduct thorough research and make informed decisions that drive meaningful change and deliver the right results.”

Building on this success, YOULEAD stated that it was set to expand its impact in Africa through Mission 10,000, beginning with five key countries: Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, Ghana, and Tanzania, before scaling to additional African

nations by 2030. It noted that Mission 10,000 focuses on three core areas crucial for youth development: skills for employability, leadership development, and community action and innovation. The initiative would provide training in digital, entrepreneurial, and green skills to prepare youth for today’s and tomorrow’s economies. It would also offer mentorship, training, and access to opportunities to shape future global leaders while equipping young people with resources, platforms, and funding to develop localized solutions to Africa’s pressing challenges.

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

L-R: Partner/Co-founder, AO&FA Consulting, Mr. Olawale Abiola; President, Igbobi College Old Boys Association (ICOBA), Mr. Femi Olubanwo; Chairman, ICOBA Board of Trustees, Mr. Bode Thorpe; Chairman & Founder, Phillips Consulting, Mr Foluso Phillips, and 1st Vice President, Igbobi College Old Boys Association, Mr. Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, at the 2025 ICOBA Business Breakfast Meeting organised by AO & FA Consulting in partnership with Phillips Consulting, in Lagos...recently

ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION…

El-Rufai Not Yet Registered Member, SDP Kaduna Reveals

The Kaduna State chapter of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has said that ex-governor Nasir el-Rufai is yet to register as a member of the party two weeks after his defection.

The party also rejected the purported dissolution of the Kaduna State Working Committee of the party by the National Secretariat.

Addressing a press conference yesterday in Kaduna, Idris Inuwa, Assistant National Secretary, North-west zone, said el-Rufai’s membership of the party remained a rumour as he is yet to follow due process of becoming a member.

The former governor had on March 10, 2025, announced his defection from

First Lady Seeks Leniency for

Delta Nursing Students

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has called for understanding after some nursing students in Delta State faced disciplinary action for their "light-hearted" chants during her visit to the State this week.

The incident happened Tuesday during the Renewed Hope Initiative’s donation of 10,000 professional kits to midwives at the Dome Event Centre in Asaba.

While the event was meant to boost morale among healthcare workers, a viral video showed students from Delta State College of Nursing Sciences adding a playful twist to their welcome song. Delta State College of Nursing Sciences had issued a disciplinary query to a student nurse, Osato Edobor, for allegedly recording and posting the video on social media.

However, in a statement yesterday, the Senior Special Assistant on Media to Mrs. Tinubu, Busola Kukoyi, acknowledged the students’ enthusiasm but emphasised the importance of balancing discipline with free expression.

"While we respect the right of institutions to uphold discipline, it is important to recognise that students, in moments of excitement, often express themselves in a light-hearted and jovial manner," the statement read.

The First Lady’s office clarified that the event was intended to inspire midwives and reduce maternal mortality, praising the Delta State Government and attendees for their warm reception.

Mrs. Tinubu urged the college to handle the matter fairly, stating that educational institutions should foster environments where students feel safe to express themselves while maintaining decorum.

Bold Leap: Chris Anyanwu Sues Ohakim for Defamation

Senator Chris Anyanwu has filed a suit against the former Governor of Imo State, Ikedi Ohakim, at the FCT High Court for alleged defamation.

The suit filed on March 14, 2025, has Vintage Press Limited, owner of The Nation newspapers, as the second defendant.

According to the court filings made available to THISDAY yesterday, Anyanwu (the claimant) averred that on the 2nd day of December, 2024, she launched her memoir, which was published in a book titled 'Bold Leap' and that in an interview with The Nation newspaper on the 12th day of January, 2025, the 1st Defendant while responding to questions and in reaction to the content of the claimant's book, uttered words deemed defamatory concerning the claimant.

Anyanwu averred that her attention was drawn to the said published interview and she was taken aback,

shocked and embarrassed when she read the content of the interview which prompted her to issue a press statement titled, 'I Dare Ohakim to Produce the Letter to Abacha', denying the falsehoods which were published by the defendants.

The claimant also averred that the 1st defendant in response to her press statement issued and caused to be published a press release dated the 24th day of January, 2025 which contained further falsehood concerning her.

Anyanwu stated that through the first defendant’s statements, she has been exposed to ridicule, contempt and public odium resulting in severe damage to her reputation, dignity, social standing and also in her professional, political and personal relationships with friends and associates.

She said she has equally suffered psychological, emotional and material damage.

the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to the SDP citing a growing misalignment between his personal values and the current direction of the party as the primary reason for his decision.

However, Inuwa said el-Rufai has yet to formalise his membership of the party as there are no records of his membership at the ward and local government levels.

“It has come to our notice that certain individuals, including Nasir el-Rufai, are being rumoured to have joined the SDP. However, neither the Chairman of the Kaduna North Local Government Chapter in Kaduna State nor the leadership of Unguwar Sarki ward has any record of these memberships.

Interior

“We advise him and any other interested individual to follow the proper procedures if they wish to officially become members of the party,” Inuwa said.

He also rejected the purported dissolution of the Kaduna State Working Committee of the SDP, maintaining that it is unconstitutional and an affront to the principles of due process and internal democracy.

Inuwa said, "The Kaduna State Executive Committee of the SDP categorically rejects the purported dissolution of the State Working Committee as contained in a letter from the National Secretariat dated 25th February, 2025."

He maintained that the Kaduna State Executive Committee is a product

of a duly conducted State Congress and holds a four-year mandate that remains valid and binding.

Inuwa said further that "the SDP constitution clearly outlines the process and procedure for dissolving a State Executive Committee, which includes initiating an investigation, setting up a committee, and providing a fair hearing transparently."

He argued that the Kaduna State Executive Committee of the party is the legitimate outcome of a duly conducted State Congress, reflecting the will of party members and adhering strictly to the party’s constitutional provisions.

"This body holds a four-year mandate that remains valid, binding, and legally recognised throughout its tenure.

“The SDP constitution state very clearly the process and procedure to follow in dissolving a State Exco; which includes but limited to initiating an investigation, setting up committee, providing fair hearing transparently before a decision is taken; none of this was done-only the resort to the illegal unilateral letter of dissolution,” Inuwa noted.

He said Kaduna State SDP remains open and welcoming to all prospective members who adhere to the established procedures.

“While we recognise the growing interest of individuals and groups in joining the SDP, we emphasise that there are well-defined guidelines and constitutional provisions governing membership admission," he said.

Minister Recants, Says Immigration Officer Not Shot on Order of Chinese

The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has recanted on his earlier claim that an immigration officer was shot on the order of a Chinese national at a Chinese firm in Niger State.

The minister in a statement signed by his spokesman, Alao Babatunde, said further investigations revealed that the gunshot was not ordered by a Chinese national.

The statement read: “Following the report of the alleged shooting of an officer of the Nigeria Immigration Service in Niger State, further investigations have revealed that the officer was hit by a stray bullet that was neither shot on the order

of the Chinese company nor its employee.

“A full-fledged investigation has been launched into the shooting of the personnel in collaboration with other security agencies.

This is to unravel the detailed circumstances surrounding the shooting while giving assurance that anyone found culpable will be brought to book.

“The minister reaffirms his strong commitment to ensuring the safety, dignity, and professional integrity of all law enforcement officers. He emphasises the government's ongoing support for law-abiding businesses in Nigeria and reiterates the Ministry of Interior's dedication to fostering strong partnerships

with foreign nationals, aiming to build sustainable collaboration for social economic development.”

The minister had earlier been reported to have at a stakeholders sensitisation workshop on the implementation of the Nigeria Visa Policy 2025, declared that the Nigerian government will take up the matter of the shooting as a diplomatic issue.

He said the development alone is an attack on Nigeria. “It will never happen. It will never be tolerated.”

Tunji-Ojo said: “I won’t go to China as a Nigerian, open a company and tell my security to shoot a government official in uniform. It’s never done anywhere in the world.

“These officers put their lives on the line. These officers serve this country with their all. And you will not come from anywhere and ask them to shoot them in their fatherland.

"It will no longer happen. We will take it up with you. Because that company, we (Nigerian government) have the power to withdraw their business permit from Nigeria and declare them illegal.”

He had told the gathering that the Immigration officer, who was on official duty, had visited the Chinese company to check the list of the company’s expatriates, but the owner of the company ordered a security officer in the premises to shoot the government official.

Nosak Distilleries Redeems N6bn CP, Fourth Since 2022

Nosak Distilleries Limited, a Nigerian company with substantial interest in ethanol processing and distribution, has redeemed its N6 billion Series 4 Commercial Paper (CP) issuance, bringing the total amount of its redemption since October 2022 to N26 billion.

The latest CP redemption was the fifth under the N20 billion programme initiated by the company on the FMDQ platform.

According to a statement, Nosak Distilleries had issued the four CPs in tranches ranging from N5 billion to N10 billion, all of which were utilised by the company to finance its working capital.

Nosak Distilleries is a member of Nosak Group, a Nigerian business entity operating across the various segments of the ethanol and oil palm value chains, spanning cultivation, milling, processing, distribution, packaging and exports.

Apart from Nosak Distilleries, other members of the Group include Nosak Farm Produce Limited, Saturn Farm Limited, Zex Standard Pharmaceutical Limited and Premier Plantations Limited.

Commenting on the development, Group Managing Director of Nosak Group, Thomas Oloriegbe said: “Our ability to successfully redeem the commercial papers in four issuances, without fail, is a testament to the

effectiveness of our business model and agile strategy which has proven resilient despite the enormous challenges in the Nigerian business environment.”

He noted that the company’s superior product offering and customer service delivery have remained core principles over the last 35 years of operations, cementing its status as the company of choice among the various users of ethanol in Nigeria and the West African sub-region.

He added that the company had reached an advanced stage in raising funds of longer tenors, particularly corporate bonds, which he said would be utilised to drive its medium to long-term strategic agenda and deepen

its presence in the Nigerian business environment.

Oloriegbe disclosed that the organisation was constructing a 150,000 litres per day cassava to ethanol plant in Urhonigbe, Edo State as part of its backward integration strategy and that the project, when completed would help bring its products closer to customers in the south-south, south-east and middle belt parts of the country. He further said the Group was also intensifying efforts in the oil palm space, noting that the organisation has commenced work in the cultivation of 5,000 hectares of land in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State.

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

John Shiklam in Kaduna

L-R: Ambassador of Ireland to Nigeria, Mr. Peter Ryan; Head of Policy and Public Affairs, Guinness Nigeria, Chioma Momah, wife of the Irish Ambassador to Nigeria, Teresa Ryan, and Corporate Relations Director, Guinness Nigeria, Rotimi Odusola, at St. Patrick’s Day Celebration in Abuja... recently.

New FCT Police Commissioner Vows to Replace Obsolete Equipment, Introduce Drones

As part of a renewed effort to tackle the growing spate of kidnapping, vandalism of public infrastructures, and other emerging security threats in Abuja, the new Commissioner of Police, Federal Capital Territory (FCT)

Command, Adewale Ajao, said it is time to move away from obsolete policing equipment and deploy modern technology in policing the territory. Ajao made this vow, while addressing the press at the Command's headquarters in Abuja. He said, "The command will strive

to employ and deploy state-of-the-art technology, including CCTV cameras, drones, and digital crime mapping tools to monitor and respond to distress calls on criminal activities in real-time.

A 24-hour Command and Control Centre will be established to coordinate rapid responses to emergencies, with

a view to reducing response times."

The new CP also hinted that his command would prioritise the training and welfare of officers and men, while ensuring they are equipped with the skills, tools, and motivation needed to do their job effectively. However, he warned that the

Fake Drugs: Pharmacists Recommend 20 Years Jail Term to National Assembly

In a renewed effort to eradicate the menace of fake drugs and counterfeit health products in the country, pharmacists under the aegis of Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) have called for more stringent laws to deter perpetrators.

Describing the distributors of fake drugs and unwholesome foods and drinks as merchants of death, ACPN, dissatisfied with existing penalties which ranged from N500, 000.00 and five years jail terms for offenders,

recommended minimum penalties of between N20 million and N50 million, while jail terms must be in the region of 20 years.

In a document signed by ACPN National Chairman, Mr. Ezeh Ambrose and National Secretary, Mrs. Ashore Omokhafe, the body commended the sustained and improved regulatory control activities of the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria (PCN) and National Agency for Drug and Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in recent weeks

which led to the sealing of some premises in different parts of the country.

"For us in the ACPN the high point of the progressive efforts of the PCN and NAFDAC was the extraction of irrevocable undertakings which committed the holding companies of the Coordinated Wholesale Centres (CWC) in Lagos, Aba and Onitsha to defined timelines within which the Coordinated Wholesale Centres in the three locations will be ready.

"It is imperative to also salute the

operators in these three reflected drug markets for committing themselves to the process of relocating from the existing Open Drug Markets to the Coordinated Wholesale Centres as soon as it is ready for operation," they said.

Commenting on the expected benefits of the collaborative efforts of PCN and NAFDAC in the fight against the distribution of fake drugs in the country, ACPN is optimistic of positive results down the value chain.

Military Moves to Guarantee Food Security, Reclaim Ungoverned Spaces With Establishment of Defence Farms

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Nigerian military has taken a bold step in helping President Bola Tinubu's administration to actualise its efforts in guaranteeing food security and improving national security.

The military also said that it intends to exert control over ungoverned spaces, contribute significantly to the nation's gross domestic product through agriculture, improve exports, and create massive employment for the civilian population and military

retirees by establishing Defence Farms across the federation.

This move, the military stressed, will not only guarantee food security, improve national security, create massive employment for the army of unemployed in the country, increase GDP through agriculture, expand export potentials, but also deny terrorists, bandits, Kidnappers and other criminal elements free access to ungoverned spaces in the country.

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, said this while unveiling the Defence

Farm and Agro-Allied Products Logo at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja.

He stated that the event signifies not just the unveiling of a logo, but the initiation of yet another initiative aimed at facilitating sustainable food security in the country, adding, "the event is therefore a major turning point in our collective quest for improved national security."

General Musa said the agricultural sector plays a crucial role in guaranteeing food security, which is requisite for sustainable

national security.

"Unfortunately, in recent years, the adverse impact of climate change, environmental degradation, and conflict across some parts of the country has continuously threatened food security, with dire consequences for national security.

"To address this, the Defence Headquarters conceptualised the Defence Farm and Agro-Allied Products initiative in May 2023, with the aim of supporting the federal government's efforts to address food security challenges in the country.

Nigerian Journalist, Onwumere Wins UN Correspondents Association Awards

Charles Ajunwa

A Port Harcourt-based journalist, Odimegwu Onwumere, has won the 2024 United Nations Correspondents Association awards in bronze category - 'The Prince Albert II of Monaco and UNCA Global Prize for Coverage of Climate Change'.

In a statement yesterday, Onwumere who couldn't travel for the grand finale in New York City, United States in December 2024, said he received a mail from the awards team informing him of his finalist's position in the awards on November 6, 2024. The letter reads: "Dear Odimegwu, The United Nations Correspondents Association is delighted to inform you that the UNCA Awards Selection Committee has chosen you as the Bronze finalist of The Prince Albert II of Monaco

and UNCA Global Prize for Coverage of Climate Change.

"The 2024 UNCA Awards winners will be awarded at the 28th annual UNCAAwards gala on Friday, December 13th, Cipriani South Street in New York.

"United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres will be the guest of honour of the evening.

"The black-tie event will be attended by UN ambassadors, high-level UN

officials, Hollywood celebrities, humanitarians, corporate and cultural organisations, and media from around the globe."

Onwumere, who has won many awards and nominated in so many others home and abroad in his earlier mail to the awards' committee, said he was extremely happy, adding that the award was a boost to his countless efforts in reading.

command under his leadership would not tolerate corruption and bad policing of the populace.

According to him, "We are not unaware of the security challenges posed by crimes and violence, social unrest, kidnapping, youth restiveness, cybercrime, and inequality, among others. But I stand before you today, committed to tackling these challenges head-on and ensuring that the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, remains a safer, more secure place that is livable and crime-free.

"I am fully committed to a peaceful and crime-free FCT, in line with the vision of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, who has reposed this confidence in me.

I pledge to do my best to ensure that the force is not let down. Achieving a peaceful and crime-free FCT is our collective responsibility; hence, I call on all stakeholders and relevant agencies to join me in this crusade to make the nation's Federal Capital a model for measuring excellence in crime control. "My vision is anchored on the strategic priorities set by the Inspector General of Police, which emphasise community policing, intelligence-led operations, and the use of technology to combat crime. In line with this vision, and building on the foundation laid by my predecessor, my mission is to ensure that every resident of the FCT feels safe and secure in their homes, workplaces, and public spaces."

Terra Gold Wins ADVAN Brand Innovation Award

Terra Gold emerged as a beacon of innovation and excellence at the 12th edition of the Advertisers Association of Nigeria (ADVAN)

African Awards 2025.

Terra Gold was honoured with the prestigious 'Brand Innovation of the Year' award.

The recognition underscored the brand’s commitment to redefining kitchen essentials and its journey of passion, dedication, and relentless pursuit of quality.

“From its inception, Terra Gold set out to revolutionise the way people experience food by driving innovation with its unique all-in-one cube. Designed for versatility, Terra Gold enhances a variety of meals, from mouthwatering stews and

heartwarming soups to irresistible jollof rice. With Terra Gold, the possibilities are indeed endless,” a statement explained. It further noted that winning at the ADVAN Awards was a testament to Terra Gold’s disruptive and innovative marketing approach.

Linus Aleke in Abuja

L-R: Mrs. Fatima Nduka Eze; Chief Chuck Nduka Eze; Chief Ikechukwu Ashiofu, and Mrs. Ashiofu, at a meeting of the Asaba Development Union women Ilupeju unit, held in Lagos….recently

Lanre Alfred: 2025 South West Games Deli vered Big for Youths, Sports

Mr. Lanre Alfred, a media consultant and journalist, has expanded his dominion into the electrifying arena of sports. A virtuoso enterprise stylist and sports enthusiast, Alfred now turns his gaze to the boundless fields of youth empowerment through competitive games. With the South West Games 2025 featuring subtournament, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu South West Alliance Games Alfred steps boldly into the arena of exalting societal leadership, led by ambition and a yearning to give back to society, writes Sunday Ehigiator

For Akogun Lanre Alfred, the South West Games 2025 is a movement driven by the revolutionary power of sports. At its core lies the Bola Ahmed Tinubu South West Alliance Games (BATSWAG), a sub-tournament designed to mirror the legacy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“Football is not just a game—it’s a universal language that unites people, transcending age, ethnicity, and class barriers,” Alfred asserts. He sees the Games as an avenue to address the daunting challenges facing young people in the South West, from limited exposure to socio-economic struggles. With BATSWAG, he hopes to celebrate Tinubu’s visionary leadership while providing a platform for young talents to “dream, achieve, and inspire others.”

Alfred considers his recent appointment as the President, Organising Committee, of the recently concluded maiden edition of the South West Games a great honor and is poised to rise to the full measure of his responsibilities.

“This role is an opportunity to create lasting change through sports. I am determined to ensure that every young talent in the South West is given a fair shot at greatness,” he says.

Beating the Odds

As the President of the Organising Committee, Alfred had the rare privilege of “overseeing the rigorous planning, expenses, and challenges that came with delivering a tournament of such magnitude.” Having firsthand knowledge of the intricacies involved, he says, “I can confidently say that the highpoint of the Games was the overwhelming support and goodwill we received from visionary leaders who understand the crucial role sports play in youth development and regional integration.

“First and foremost, I must express my deepest gratitude to Lagos State’s indefatigable Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, whose contributions to the success of this event are truly unquantifiable.” Governor Sanwo-Olu, he says, provided the much-needed facilities, technical and logistical support that enabled the seamless hosting of the Games. But beyond these, what struck him most was the governor’s commitment to the overarching infrastructure that his predecessors had furnished to promote sports development in the state and region.

Sanwo-Olu went the extra mile, making himself available to the Organising Committee despite his incredibly busy schedule.

His endorsement of the tournament was not merely symbolic; it was a demonstration of his belief in initiatives that uplift and empower the youth, according to Alfred.

“This is the mark of a truly dedicated public servant—one who prioritises the well-being and future of the younger generation over bureaucratic constraints. He left no stone unturned to ensure the Games were a resounding success, and for that, we are immensely grateful,” he notes.

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State was equally exceptional in his support. “Despite having his hands full with preparations for the upcoming National Sports Festival later this year, he still found time to endorses the South West Games 2025. His commitment to youth empowerment through sports was evident in the way he embraced the initiative, endorsing it and making himself available to ensure its success. It is rare to see a leader who understands the importance of sports beyond just entertainment but as a tool for youth engagement, social integration, and economic development.” Governor Abiodun’s contribution to the Games further solidifies his reputation as a governor who truly cares about the future of Ogun’s young people and, by extension, the entire region.

Alfred also commends Governor Seyi Makinde

of Oyo State. “He was also a pillar of support. His administration provided essential resources and facilities that contributed immensely to the smooth execution of the tournament,” he said.

Governor Makinde’s dedication to youth empowerment through sports is commendable, as he has consistently demonstrated a keen understanding of how sports can be a vehicle for change, development, and social cohesion. His support, says Alfred, was also instrumental in ensuring the success of the Games.

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State also played a significant role in the success of the South West Games 2025. According to Alfred, “His government’s contributions in terms of moral support, reinforced the shared vision of South West leaders in promoting youth development through sports. Governor Adeleke’s enthusiasm and open endorsement of the initiative showcased his commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and opportunity for young athletes. His dedication to the cause is truly appreciated, and we are grateful for his support.”

“Then I would never forget our father, Aremo Olusegun Osoba, the former governor of Ogun State. He supported us by endorsing the event and helping with access to previously unaccessible corridors of power. His support underscored his belief in the unifying power of sports and our shared vision that sports has the power to harness youth potential for societal progress. His enthusiasm and unfaltering commitment to the success of the Games are quite appreciable.”

Equally noteworthy, states Alfred, is the immense support received from Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Hon. Gbajabiamila threw open his doors to the Organising Committee and also wholeheartedly embraced the South West Games and everything it represents. “He saw in this initiative a golden opportunity to provide our youth with exposure to trainers, sponsors, and agents who could catapult them onto national and international

sporting platforms.

Most Defining Moment of the Tournament

Speaking further on the event, Alfred reveals, “On a personal note, one of the most defining and emotional moments for me was witnessing the passion and feverish participation of the over 1,200 teenagers who competed in the Games. Their zeal was both inspiring and moving—I almost cried as I watched them pour their hearts into the competition. For many of them, this was more than just a tournament; it was a lifeline, a shot at developing their sports talents, and an opportunity to actualise their dreams of making something meaningful out of their lives. Seeing them shriek with joy at victory and break down in heartbreak at loss, I couldn’t help but reflect on how vital this initiative is for their future.

“Here were our youths—the leaders of tomorrow—engaged in something productive, positive, and inspiring. The South West Games must continue as an annual event, and I urge all state governments and sports administrators in the region to recognise its immense value.”

A

Partnership

Between Public and Private Sectors

The South West Games is not a solitary endeavor. From the outset, Alfred found strong allies in the National Sports Commission and the Lagos State Sports Commission. The Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC) , Hon. Lekan Fatodu was a strong pillar of support, “without whose invaluable support the tournament would have failed to attain the glamour, efficiency, and smooth delivery that defined it,” discloses Alfred. “His role in ensuring access to state-of-the-art sports infrastructure and his commitment to the continuity of the Games must be commended.” Similarly, Alfred acknowledges the contributions of the Director General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, “whose support for this initiative from its inception to its efficient execution was remarkable. His guidance and involvement provided the necessary leverage to ensure that the Games met global standards and delivered on its core objective of youth empowerment.”

More appreciable, notes Alfred, is the support offered by prominent magnates, corporate players

and the political class. “So far, the tournament enjoyed massive support and endorsement from the who is who in Nigeria including First Bank of Nigeria, the United Bank of Africa, UTM FLNG, AITEO, Oodua Investment Group, Old English Group, Aremo Olusegun Osoba, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Olawale Olaleye, Olumide Olufade, Chief Amaju Pinnick, and Chief Segun Odegbami, to mention a few. According to him, the support enjoyed by these individuals have been massive and very instrumental to the realization of the tournament objectives so far. With their backing, the maiden edition of the tournament, the South West Games 2025 succeeded on a massive scale.

A Game Changer in Nigerian Sports

Unlike conventional tournaments, the South West Games 2025 offers a unique bridge between grassroots sports and professional leagues. With a focus on under-18 teams, particularly those from grassroots backgrounds, the Games will provide a rare opportunity for emerging talents to compete alongside established players.

“Beyond football, it’s about cultivating leadership, fostering unity, and promoting inclusivity,” Alfred explains. The tournament will incorporate mentorship programs, career development initiatives, and opportunities for exposure to scouts and sponsors. “It’s a holistic approach to youth and sports development. Many young people dream of making it big in sports, but they lack the opportunities. The South West Games will ensure that no talent goes unnoticed,” states Alfred.

BATSWAG: A Tribute to a Legacy of Progress

President Tinubu’s impact on Nigeria, particularly Lagos State, is deeply woven into the fabric of this initiative. Alfred sees BATSWAG as a sporting reflection of Tinubu’s legacy—one that prioritizes human capital development, progress, and innovation.

“The BATSWAG sub-tournament was created to mirror that vision by empowering youth, fostering unity, and creating sustainable opportunities,” he says. “This is not just about celebrating a leader; it is about continuing the work he started by investing in young people, which is the surest way to secure the future.”

More than a celebration of sports, the Games serve as a platform to ensure Tinubu’s contributions to community development continue to inspire future generations.

The aspirations for the tournament extend far beyond the tournament itself. Alfred envisions a lasting impact on the region, fostering a culture of excellence, discipline, and unity.

“For the youth, it’s about empowerment—helping them see football as more than a pastime but as a viable career path and a tool for personal growth,” he says.

At the community level, the Games aim to break down barriers, strengthen bonds, and promote inclusion. For Nigeria as a whole, it serves as a bold statement that sports can be a catalyst for social and economic development. The South West Games 2025 is built on four foundational pillars: talent discovery, youth empowerment, community unity, and sports development.

Alfred breaks it down: “First is talent discovery and development—we want to identify and nurture young football talents, giving them pathways to professional leagues. Second, youth empowerment—we aim to instill leadership, teamwork, and discipline in our participants. Third, community unity and social inclusion—football has the power to bring people together. And finally, sports development—integrating grassroots and professional teams to strengthen the South West’s sports ecosystem.”

Lanre Alfred

Changing Lives of Out-of-School Children

KUNI TYESSI writes on the Not Forgotten Initiative, a nongovernmental organisation in Abuja, helping many out-ofschool children to live their dreams through free education.

The students with management of the NFI

Nigeria is ranked second after India in the number of outof-school children globally. However, that does not tell the whole story because the percentage of out-of-school children, when compared with the population, is higher in Nigeria than India.

This embarrassing situation has led to the introduction and modification of certain policies in the educational sector. But the

results are yet to be felt. However, to change this sordid narrative, some individuals have chosen to serve as bridge between a fraction of the millions of out-of-school children in the country and a meaningful future by starting from their immediate environment.

One of such is Mrs. Oluwatosin Adeniyi, founder of the nongovernmental organisation- Not Forgotten Initiative (NFI), who has chosen to make a difference in the lives of

children of the less privileged people in the society.

From a chance encounter with a concerned and sorrowing mother of some out- of-school children early in 2018, the NFI has created structures within the highbrow Asokoro residential area of Abuja for children of underserved communities in Kpaduma Hills and environs.

In collaboration with Agora Policy and MacArthur Foundation, the NFI School recently organised a Student Public Policy Forum for ten community schools in Abuja.

Speakers included the Registrar of Baze University, Prof. Abiodun Adeniyi; the Abstract Communication Specialist for Policy Innovation Center (PIC) Mrs. Agharite Omofuoma; former consul general of Nigeria in New York, United States, Amb. Lot Egopija, and a retired Director at the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Mrs. Modupe Ogundimu and the Agora Policy Founder, Mr Waziri Adio. But the first real story is about the NFI School that offers not only free education but also one meal a day to 154 children of the poor.

The main idea, according to Mrs. Adeniyi, is to make basic education available at no cost to the children of the less privileged people within their vicinity with the overall aim of breaking the cycle of poverty. ”We believe that if we could provide quality education to those under-privileged children, not only would they take charge of themselves but would also have positive influences to their families and those around them,” Mrs. Adeniyi said.

The initiative, which started with 14 children in December 2018, has defied the odds of lack of financial support from the government.

With donations from family members and friends, especially of the founder’s husband, Olusegun Adeniyi, Chairman of THISDAY Editorial Board, NFI has matured into a school-like setting with about 154 children in its register, with the motto that every child is a champion and has the ability to make the world his/her oyster when given the right opportunity, support, and a safe as well as conducive environment for learning.

The public policy forum programme held recently, according to Mrs. Adeniyi, was organised with the intention to further expose the children to their peers from other schools and showcase how far they have travelled in nurturing them through education and also the children’s receptiveness and adaptability to learning.

In his keynote speech, Prof. Adeniyi said with the seeds of hope and enthusiasm being planted into them, the world can only wait with optimism to hear and see how far the NFI children would go in supporting indigents like them to chart ways to progress.

“The problem is that we wait for people to grow up and then try to now force them to change behaviours and change thinking patterns,” said Mrs Omofuoma in her presentation. “If we can catch children at this young age and tell them that they can begin to think about solutions to practical problems, then we are gradually building a better society.”

In her submission, Mrs. Adeniyi said such topics and discussions surrounding policies and their implementation will continue to be brought to fore in order to engage the minds of young people towards proffering solutions to the nation’s challenges.

In all, 17 schools participated in the session, with each making a presentation on what they understood by public policy and how they could be part of the process of change within their respective environments.

How Dapo Abiodun Dazzled Doubters, Took Ogun to Great Heights

Kayode Akinmade

It is the tree set at nought that causes one to trip and fall, so says the elders, and critics of the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, learnt that lesson so well. The naysayers ought to have learnt from the intense persecution that heralded his move into the Oke Mosan Government House, but they did not, in part because of the power of rumour.

If getting into office was tedious, keeping it was war. No sooner had he assumed office than opposition figures within and without ganged up against him, telling whoever cared to listen that nothing good could from his administration. But the Iperu-born prince—and yes, he is actually a prince— would not deviate from his focus. He kept in mind the motto of the Royal Air Force: Per adua ad astra (Through difficulty to the stars), and the inflow of projects and investments into the state ever since has validated his position.

At this very moment, Ogun is on the cusp of a massive turnaround in energy and food production. Do not take my word for it: Google is your friend. Nigeria’s industrial capital is intent on fully leveraging the recent amendment to the 1999 Constitution which allows federating units to generate their electricity independently and sufficiently according to their needs, and Governor Abiodun made this clear while receiving a delegation from Brazilian companies, Ambar Energia Brazil, led by its President, Mr. Marcelo Zanatta, and the CEO of an agricultural firm, JBX, Mr Jose Batista, who visited the state for an on-the-spot assessment of various sectors of the Ogun economy. President of Ambar Energia Brazil, Mr. Marcelo Zanatta, and the representative of JBX commended the Ogun State Government for providing the necessary infrastructure to facilitate investment growth, pledging to invest massively in the power sector and contribute significantly to the state’s industrial development.

Ogun currently consumes approximately 8,200 megawatts of electricity, with a whopping 80 percent of this generated independently. And the administration is fully determined to achieve self-sufficiency in power generation through various strategic initiatives. For one thing, it has the advantage of gas reticulation, with two major gas pipelines traversing the state, ensuring easy access to energy across the eight industrial clusters. An Independent Power Plant meant to provide 24-hour of uninterrupted electricity to most parts of Abeokuta, the state capital, will be ready for commissioning shortly. Governor Abiodun made this known in February after inspecting the 30-megawatts power plant located in Onijanganjangan, near Ewekoro. The project, run in collaboration with private sector partners, is the first phase of the Ogun State Light Up Project. The power plant will provide constant electricity to

government institutions like offices, health facilities, government quarters, police stations, local government offices, and higher institutions, and will eventually reach private individuals and industries when the capacity is increased.

The state that hosts Dangote, Nestlé, and Lafarge and other big businesses is ready to thrive. The largest protein producer in the world, JBS of Brazil, has indicated interest in investing $2.5bn in the livestock subsector of Nigeria’s economy, and it is set to capture that investment. The Controlling Shareholder of the company, Mr. Wesley Batista, gave this indication when officials of his firm, led by the Controlling Shareholder of EMN, Mr. John Coumantaros, visited the people’s Governor at Oke-Mosan. Governor Abiodun promised to open up Ogun State for investments and industrialization, and he has achieved already that. Roads are being built left, right and centre and investors are pouring into the state. And then there is the peace and tranquility that have attended his stewardship, and the position of Ogun in the comity of states. Ogun is being envied because across all sectors—agric, education, security, environment, human capital development—discernible progress is being made. Ask the President of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, who recently revealed that his company decided to return to Ogun State because of Prince Abiodun’s vision and the state’s investor-friendly climate. Now, in Itori and Ibeshe, cement plants targeted at producing a combined 18 million metric tons per annum are being constructed, potentially making Ogun the highest cement producing state or region in Africa. And there’s a deep seaport

to boot as part of Dangote’s $700 million investment.

Besides, the Abiodun administration is building a dry port to further open up the state for investment opportunities, in addition to the over 4,000 affordable houses already built for medium and upper-income earners in Abeokuta, Ilaro, Sagamu, Iperu, Ijebu-Ode and Ota. Abiodun’s Gateway State has a huge IGR profile that marks it out as one of the few financially self-sufficient states in the country. It has Nigeria’s largest industrial layout, is one of the few states with N150bn IGR annually, and can conveniently pay salaries without federal support.

The investment story is not a fluke. In April 2022, the Ogun State government signed a $400m MoU with a foreign firm, Arise Integrated Industrial Platform, on the development of Olokola Free Trade Zone and Remo Agro Processing Zone. In August of the same year, a steel conglomerate, African Industries Group, pledged to invest over $500m in the Ogun State economy. Nigerians will remember that in May 2023, the Canadian Government indicated interest in investing in the agricultural and technological sectors of the Ogun economy to strengthen over 60 years of the bilateral relationship with Nigeria. In July 2024, the South Africa-Nigeria Business Chamber pledged to spearhead aggressive investment drive for Ogun State, funding series of investments to drive economic growth and development in the State. The next month, the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) expressed strong support for the $500 million investment by the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to enhance power infrastructure in Ogun State. Also, a Chinese company, Inner Galaxy Steel Company Limited, in October last year, announced a $300 million investment to establish a new steel plant for the production of specialised steel products in Ogun State, and in the same month, the Ogun State Government announced the establishment of a $5 million battery recycling plant by a British company.

It can be no surprise that Governor Abiodun’s vision is taking shape with the urban renewal initiative across major towns in the state: the housing projects initiated by his administration have added lustre and beauty to all major cities across the state. Kobape, Iperu, Ijebu Ode and Ilaro are now being referred to as smart cities. The first phase of 35 houses are receiving finishing touches at the Ibara Government Reservation Area, Abeokuta, with drainages, sidewalks, solar street lights, electricity and water reticulation already in place. Hear Governor Abiodun:

Akinmade sent this piece through; kayodeakinmade809@gmail.com

Abiodun

Elumelu @62: Making Giant Strides

Chidiebere Nwobodo

“The man who has no imagination has no wings.”

— Muhammad Ali

Great achievers have one attribute in common; imaginative power. There is a school of thought that espoused this philosophy that after God finished creating man, He transferred to mankind the first instrument of creation—imagination.

Anthony Onyemachi Elumelu, embodies this trait of imaginative spirit to a great extent. Like an indelible mark, he has imprinted it across the length and breadth of endeavors he has transversed in the last 62 years so far of his voyage on earth.

I understood how powerful and redefining imaginative ability could be when I read one of the stories of the renowned Italian sculptor, painter and poet of the high renaissance, Michelangelo. The story was brilliantly elucidated in Robert Green’s 48 Laws of Power. It was about seeing opportunities where others perceived obstacles. It is using mental power to create imaginative pathways of greatness because success is a journey and not a destination.

Robert Green, in his famous book, enumerated how Michelangelo was tasked with sculpting a statue of biblical David from a large, flawed piece of marble that had been deemed ruined by previous artist. Despite the imperfections, Michelangelo saw potential in the flawed slab and transformed it into a masterpiece that continues to inspire till date. It was a story that illustrates the concept of finding imaginative power and turning limitations cum problems into opportunities.

Centuries after its progenitor had gone, ideology of Michelangelo metaphorically crossed Mediterranean sea, anchored itself on West Africa where it reincarnated in Tony Elumelu who was born on March 22, 1963. 62 years after he was birthed, Tony Elumelu, using imaginative power like Michelangelo, made his potential find expression in Nigeria economic hemisphere, where he saw challenges and envisioned them into opportunities. Encountered doubts in the midst of problems but refused to give up, instead carved wealth out of “ruined marbles”, reminiscent of Michelangelo.

As a young graduate out of the university, he rejected delusional fantasies, faced reality while holding on to his vision as encapsulated by his imagination. He had at the back of his mind the popular saying: “If you snooze you lose.”

As a serving corps member, attached to one of the branches of Union Bank, Tony Elumelu had the premonition that the marble of his destiny and its attendant sculpting tools had been handed to him by Grand Architect of the Universe, God, to carve his future like Michelangelo did to that ruined marble which became magnificent statue of David.

Tony, began his career sojourn believing in the eternal words of Pablo Picasso, Spanish sculptor and painter, that everything you can imagine is real. He started making giant strides in the banking industry to the extent that at age 34, he was already chief executive officer of defunct Standard Trust Bank; making him the youngest chief executive officer of a bank in Nigeria. A feat that has not been outclassed till date. There came banking consolidation policy of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), that quaked the sector.

In the midst of uncertainties in the industry created by the reforms, Elumelu did not press the panic bottom or join club of wailing wailers, rather, he took the words of Steve Jobs— “Innovation is the ability to see change as an opportunity, not a threat”. Like Michelangelo, he gazed at the reforms sweeping across the industry as hurricane, carved

out opportunities in the uncertainties.

Like a skilled sailor, he did not move against the tide, he rode on the waves to emerge at the top of the nation’s banking industry, where he called the shots as chief executive officer of United Bank of Africa (UBA) for consecutive ten years! Tony’s sterling leadership at the UBA has transformed the financial industry from a hitherto struggling old generation bank to a 21st century banking leviathan, financial powerhouse, with over 20 million active customers, 30,000 employees and 1,000 branches across 20 countries of the world.

He had a successful run as chief executive officer of UBA until another policy of the government closed curtains on that season. As usual, Elumelu did not lament or turn into a vile critic, rather, like someone on the same ideological wavelength of Steve Jobs, he saw the change as an opportunity to expand his portfolio and not a threat to his meteroic rise to stardom. As a result of this development, Heirs Holdings was born and Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) came to life.

As an entrepreneurial maven and one of the richest men in Africa, Elumelu’s portfolio spans different sectors: power, oil, gas, financial services, hospitality, real estate, healthcare, and technology sectors, respectively, etc, with a visible presence across 24 countries. Recently, Money Central, a financial news platform, broke the story that the Delta-born investor had joined club of dollar-denominated billionaires valued at $2.1 billion dollars.

Despite his growing influence and affluence across

economic landscape of Africa and beyond which got him renowned as the father of Africapitalism, Elumelu maintains a demeanor of humility and simplicity. He does not attribute his achievements to personal efforts alone. He believes that there is an element of luck—what Christendom references as grace, in catapulting him to the olympic height he occupies today.

He was quoted as saying: “I believe in luck because I’m a product of it. When I started my career, I got a job I applied for despite not meeting the advertised criteria. That was luck at play, but I also believed that I was good enough to make a difference, so I offered myself. Luck was what made my boss at the time read my application letter.” The mere acknowledgement of the place of luck (grace) in orchestrating events on his paths to greatness, is a huge display of humility.

This is one of the traits that makes Elumelu different from other rich and influential people from this clime and major reason he set out to give young aspiring entrepreneurs opportunities to convert their imagination to reality; ideas to businesses through the TEF.

As an exemplar of the deep philosophy of life, despite being a master at strategic positioning, Tony’s ideal postulates that you cannot plot your way all through to success without running into junctions of uncertainties at some points in your quest for self-actualisation. And this is where “luck” or grace comes in, to navigate one beyond uncertainties.

It resonates with ‘Uncertainty Principle’ in quantum physics, propagated by a German scientist, Werner Heisenberg, which states that it is scientifically impossible to determine the position and momentum of a particle simultaneously because there must be uncertainty error. The more precisely you get one, the more uncertain the other becomes.When juxtapose with life experiences, it is that X-factor called luck (grace) that takes care of uncertainties of life—things beyond our control, especially after we must have done our bits as humans. Tony Elumelu was right. It is rare to see a billionaire in his category acknowledge this element of divinity in his life. Tony Elumelu Foundation was born out of this philosophy to give back to humanity: to extend a helping hand to up-andcoming entrepreneurial explorers in search of business success.

As a pathfinder, Tony Elumelu has become navigational tool providing leadership and support to aspiring entrepreneurs across Africa via TEF to those whose ambition is to create wealth and share prosperity. He is a prolific philanthropist and founder of Africa’s leading philanthropy dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs.

At the Foundation, each selected beneficiary called Tony Elumelu Entrepreneur, is given a non-refundable seed capital of $5000, world-class business training on TEFConnect, one-onone mentorship, and access to global networks and investment opportunities. In the last few years, empowered Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurs have collectively created over 1.5 million jobs and generated $4.2 billion in revenue powered by emerging businesses.

As a custom, Tony Elumelu’s birthday, today, is dedicated to announcing the next set of beneficiaries of the $5000 seed capital. Therefore, usually, Tony marks his birthday by putting smiles on the faces of people, reaching out to the less privileged, empowering young entrepreneurs to go into the world of business and unleash their potential.

Aristotle opined that unexamined life is not worth living. Tony’s life in the last 62 years has been exemplifying, inspiring and impactful. It is a life propelled by imaginative power, sheer ingenuity, grace and philanthropy. As he marks another milestone, my warmest birthday wishes.

Chidiebere wrote via chidieberenwobodo@yahoo.com

Kestin Pondi: Building People of Ezonland Beyond Tomorrow

On the streets of Delta State, High Chief Kestin Ebimobowei Pondi, the man his admirers fondly call ‘Daddy Kess’ or ‘Daddy K,’ is known as a young philanthropist.

Ironically, Pondi does not see himself like that; he thinks he’s doing what he’s doing naturally for someone in his position.

Of course, he appreciates that those who call him a philanthropist are appropriately describing how society sees what he’s doing, but he himself has an uncomplicated moral code that simply wouldn’t let him see himself as doing anything special. Those who know him more intimately are not surprised at his unpretentious humility. This has a lot to do with his upbringing and cultural consciousness. He grew up in a home where his parents and kinsmen taught him that giving is just simply a duty, rather than an act for which you expect a reward. As a follower of the Ezon traditional religion, charity is simply a form of justice, a way of life. He does not see himself as doing anything extraordinary; he sees himself as everyman.

But, for those who are in the business of studying the development of entrepreneurship in Nigeria and Africa, like myself, High Chief Pondi is a great inspiration, a young man that needs to be platformed appropriately because of his potential.

Pondi registered his first company, Ponkebi Nigeria Limited in 2006, which, in his own words, he did “without the hope of getting it to do anything.”

According to him: “I just know that if I register a company, that’s the first step to get things done.”

And that is how he has simply approached life from the moment he became fully conscious of his place in society; he’s done so with the untiring drive to get something done, even when he had nothing.

He attended the famous Nana College, Warri, Delta State and went to the South-East for his tertiary education at Enugu State University of Science and Technology where he read Civil Engineering. High Chief Pondi is a Fellow, Nigerian Society of Engineers and also a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Industrial Security. While being a total Nigerian and an international citizen by friendships, association, educational environment, professional affiliations and work, High Chief Pondi is a man fully grounded in his Ezon homeland.

He champions their causes and has joined forces with the famous Tompolo, one of Ezonland’s most famous sons, for this purpose.

He became the Managing Director of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited and today through his Kalm Marine and Petroleum Services Limited, he’s secured an oil prospecting license since 2022 to develop the Ogbanabou field (PPL213). It is

a testament to his courage that he has chosen to prospect, rather than lazily sell off the licence and take the cheap money and move on as most young people are wont to do. His perseverance in this high-risk sector is already yielding result with the completion of his first oil well last year.

Elumelu

Melody Fidel Okwuazu

Pondi

Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394

Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

Matilda Lambert: Storytelling Should Reflect Our Realities, Inspire Change

Award-winning actor, filmmaker, and founder of Tilda Goes Green Foundation, Matilda Gogo Lambert is dedicated to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Lambert has charted environmental issues and restoration efforts through her projects, aligning with the mission of the Tilda Goes Green Foundation. She speaks to Ferdinand Ekechukwu about her works, humanitarian and advocacy projects, and more. Excerpts

Whatwasthelastmovie youfeaturedin?

Bloodline… A movie produced by Bobby Ogoloma where I played Ann. Portraying Ann in Bloodline was a deeply emotional and draining with no freedom, choice, or escape. The role required tapping into intense emotions, making it one of the most challenging characters I’ve played.

Canyousharewithusanywork,projectyou areworkingonatthemoment?

but I can’t reveal too much just yet. It’s a project that blends strong storytelling with a meaningful message—something that will leave a lasting impact. I’m also launching #TILDA7forGreen, a 7-day global sustainability challenge dedicated to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The campaign, running from April 1–7, 2025, will inspire individuals, communities, and organisations worldwide to take simple but impactful daily actions—such as planting trees, reducing plastic waste, conserving water, and advocating for climate policies, with participants using #7forGreen and #TildaGoesGreen on social media to raise awareness and encourage global participation.

Take us through your journey into movie production,actingandwhy?

I started Matilda Lambert Productions in 2016, three years after entering the film industry. My first movie, Deepest Cut, tells a compelling story of love, betrayal, leadership, and the struggles of people at the IDP camps in Abuja amid the Boko Haram crisis. The film, which is still available on Amazon Prime, was my first step toward not

producing but also shaping the kind of stories I wanted to tell. I ventured into production to do something different—bringing stories to life that issues. I believe that storytelling should reflect our realities, spark conversations, and inspire change. Moreover, as one grows in the film industry, it’s important to evolve. For me, producing was a natural progression—a way to have more creative control over the narratives I want to share with the world and to continuously upgrade myself in this ever-evolving industry.

As a producer, how often do you use the medium of film to propagate your charity/ humanitarian works?

Film is a powerful tool for storytelling and advocacy, and I have already taken steps in that direction. I created a short film titled Black Creeks as an entry for the Ecosystem Restoration 2023 at Bele-Kiri fishing settlement in Rivers State for UNEP. This project highlights environmental issues and restoration efforts, aligning with the mission of the Tilda Goes Green Foundation. I plan to integrate more film projects into the foundation’s initiatives to raise awareness and inspire action on environmental protection.

Agoodnumberofproducershavetheirworks on streaming platforms. Is there any plan on yourparttoalsoshowcaseyours?

Of course! Every producer aims to grow and succeed in their field, and I’m grateful to say that I have had movies on all the platforms mentioned, with even more to come. My award-winning blockbuster movie, Unroyal, a production under for almost two years. It tells the compelling story of Princess Boma and features an incredible cast, including legendary Pete Edochie, Shaffy Bello, Okon Lagos, Blossom Chukwujekwu, Matilda G., and many more. Additionally, my debut movie, Deepest Cut, is still streaming on Amazon Prime, and more of my movies are being submitted to the platform. Beyond that, I also run a YouTube channel, “MLPRODUCTIONS TV,” where audiences can watch some of my amazing works, such as Star Girl, The Christmas Chef, Domestic Lunatic, Vendetta, Instaguru, Black Creeks and more.

Can you talk to us about your upcoming advocacyprojects?

We have done a lot, some of which includes: Pad The Girl Child Campaign of Tilda Goes Green, an initiative borne out of the need to empower young girls and women who cannot afford menstrual hygiene products, and also to educate those going through any form of stigmatisation, abuse and health challenges as a result of their natural monthly cycle.

YouTube Now Go-to Platform for Nollywood Productions

While traditional cinema and paid streaming services will always have their place, the rise of YouTube as a distribution channel for Nollywood productions is believed to be driven by both necessity and opportunity, writes Ferdinand Ekechukwu

The incursion of digital platforms like YouTube has reshaped Nollywood. Many attribute YouTube as a major force behind this transformation. As someone acknowledged, YouTube has been a game-changer for Nollywood. It hitherto provides a global platform cinemas or streaming platforms.

Aside from the direct revenue generation through who previously relied on cinema releases and streaming deals are beginning to realise the huge them to reach international audiences without the constraints of traditional distribution channels.

Interestingly, how streaming giants made some of ground for Nollywood productions believed to be low-budget. Over the past months, Nigerians have witnessed YouTube channels becoming a the pullback by major streaming platforms like

In a stunning turn of events, some of the established names in the industry are now taking to YouTube to stream their movies in a big way. Notably, Kunle Afolayan; one of Nollywood’s January this year to launch titles like The CEO distribution platform with massive reach.

The move to release The CEO, his 2016 thriller, was driven by a desire to give a larger audience

relevant forever.”

“As far as commercial content is concerned, Nigeria and South Africa are in the forefront,” he claims, “And then maybe Kenya. Most of other African countries have smaller members so distributors don’t pay a lot of attention.” DSTV

gave it a global stage.

Afolayan disclosed that when The CEO was cinemas in other African countries due to limited attention given to countries outside of Nigeria and South Africa. By screening it on the global video-sharing platform, Afolayan made it more accessible across Africa and beyond through his YouTube channel, Kap Stream.

Omoni Oboli took the industry by storm with a romantic drama, ‘Love in Every Word’, which has recorded a whopping 15 million plus views, temporarily pulled from YouTube. Since its release on March 7, 2025, it has helped underscore the

The trend, however, isn’t entirely new. Veterans like Ruth Kadiri have also been instrumental in this regard, tapping into YouTube’s vast audience. an average of one million views across genres ranging from romance to comedy, thriller to epic

Instructively, Kadiri, whose channel boasts over to 2.8 million subscribers have inspired a good number of others to take advantage of YouTube, though not without criticism. On her channel, functions as a mini-streaming service, attracting Today, a growing crop of young and established creating a new industry on YouTube. Other popular names like Uche Jumbo, Destiny Etiko, Ini Edo, Shirley Igwe, Ik Ogbonna have all embraced the platform. As reported, Etiko’s latest video accumulated one million views in just three days on YouTube.

The growing importance of YouTube for Nol-

keen observers following the trend. A recent article views why Nollywood is thriving on YouTube. It talks about YouTube—a free video-sharing platform owned by Google, launched in 2005 and accessible worldwide.

It’s the second most-visited website after Google Search. In 2023, YouTube generated over $30 billion in revenue. According to the article, back in 2013, it was $3.1 billion, considering what the revenue will be in another 10 years. It noted that as of 2022, with only 6.69 million users in Nigeria, the percentage of YouTube channels making seven 60% year-over-year.

YouTube? the article posed. “Simple: MONEY! More followers, subscribers, and views equal more money. Longer content? More money. Frequent content? You guessed it—more money!” It maintained that

returns are uncertain. If you’re not EbonyLife, Funke Akindele, or don’t have big names like Etomi, your chances of breaking even in the cinema business are slim to none.”

But on YouTube, anyone—literally anyone—can can make way more than you spent. “Most

Bimbo Ademoye now gracing the YouTube scene. Big producers like Omoni Oboli and Ruth Kadiri also have YouTube channels.

“YouTube is a low-hanging fruit for Nigerian and get paid heavily for it. Yes, they’re there for the money. But it’s not merely the money they get from streams and ads right now. I reckon they are thinking long-term.

“Imagine what they would be making in 10 years. It’s the same as people investing in the Afrobeats industry right now. Now that you know why your faves are hell-bent on breaking into

the YouTube market, I’m about to tell you why everyday Nigerians like me and you consume so much YouTube content – enough to make these people rich.

“As of 2022, 650 Nigerian YouTube channels had over 100,000 subscribers, and 35 channels had over one million subscribers. 500 hours of content are uploaded on YouTube every minute! YouTube is practically the digital content bank of the globe. So, why would Nigerians rather watch YouTube than go to the cinema?

“The reason is that YouTube movies have became such a big deal – the home video era, the covers – “BEYONCE VS RIHANNA” when “This was the era where kids who didn’t have video players at home stood around that one advantage that other streaming platforms like of all these options.

www.thisdaylive.com

Matilda

Filmmaker, Olatunbosun Amao

FEATURES

As Aliko Dangote Foundation Rice Distribution Brings Relief Nationwide

With hundreds of thousands of 10 kg bags of rice delivered to the homes of vulnerable Nigerians across the states, the Aliko Dangote Foundation has brought relief to many people especially in this holy month of Ramadan and lent, writes Oluchi Chibuzor

The Aliko Dangote Foundation in line with its hunger-alleviating initiative made available one million 10kg bags of rice for distribution across the 774 Local Government Areas to needyNigerians.Thedistribution has kicked off in many local government areas.

Lagos State

In Lagos State, the distribution of eighty thousand bags of 10kg bags rice allocated to the twenty local government areas has commenced in earnest. The bags of rice were allocated to groups and Associations to ensure hitch free and seamless distribution.

These groups and associations include People Living with disabilities, Market Women and Men, Non-Indigenes (Arewa, Ndigbo and South-South), Religious Group, Artisans, National Youth Council of Nigeria, Joint Community Development Association, NUT, Hunters association, among others.

Chairman of Agbado Oke -Odo Local Council Development Authority (LCDA), Mr. Olabowale Kasumu, who supervised the distribution at the LCDA commended the Aliko Dangote Foundation for the wonderful gesture which he said has brought smiles and relief to many Nigerians. Kasumu who is also the Lagos State CDC Welfare officer said “Aliko Dangote is a Nigerian that has chosen to be different. You have choices but you have made the right one which is caring for the vulnerable. I appreciate Aliko Dangote for extending his kind gestures to the people at the bottom of the pyramid.”

A beneficiary from Non-Indigene Group (Ndigbo), Chidi Ugwuba, appreciated the Aliko Dangote foundation for its kindness, which he said would alleviate the suffering of her family and others. For the Coordinator of People Living with Disability in Egbe Idimu LCDA, Turkson Abigail, “the rice donation is a godsend, especially during this fasting period.” The Chairman of the Ikorodu Local Government CDC, Elder Yekini Ogunjimi said, “This Dangote rice will go a long way and is coming at a good time, Ramadan and lent period. We appreciate him and when the beneficiaries in groups receive the food palliative, they share amongsttheirmembersresultinginAlikoDangote Foundation reaping many more blessings.”

Another leader, Niran Ogunbawo stated that the greatest challenge people are having is how to feed adding that the rice distributed will go a long way in feeding families and this will put smiles on their faces. He added, “I want to thank the Aliko Dangote Foundation for this gift to poor Nigerians. It is coming at a good time.”

Ms. Adeoti, a beneficiary from Odogunyan area of Ikorodu North LCDA stated the community was happy on getting the information the Dangote Foundation is distributing rice to residents, noting that “during this Ramadan period the rice will go a long way to support the family during Iftar.”

Chairperson of Ikeja Local Government, Alhaja Adefolani Taibat, speaking at the distribution in Ikeja axis described the initiative as a lifeline for many Lagosians who are either observing the Ramadan Fast or the Christian Lent. She said “This would go a long way in providing relief to families, especially those who are in lack as a result of the current economic situation of the country. We commend Mr Dangote for his moves to alleviate hunger in the land this period, as this would help lessen the hardship many Nigerians are facing to get food on their tables.” She also urged other thriving businesses to take cue from what Dangote is currently doing to give back to the nation.

ChairmanoftheNationalAssociationofPersons with Physical Disabilities (Lagos Chapter), Kayode Shokunbi, in his remarks said “Mr Dangote is well known for his philanthropy, and he has always rendered help when needed. We appreciate him for yet another great intervention this period, and

I pray Almighty Allah blesses all his businesses just the way he has blessed us this season. Many thankstoAlikoDangoteFoundationandtheLagos State government for actualizing this.”

An artisan, Mr Musa Fatai who spoke on behalf of others said “We genuinely appreciate Dangote for his effort to feed the less privileged. Several personsareworkingtirelesslytomakeendsmeet, but it has been exceedingly difficult to take care of their families. This program, however, will lessen the burden even on the artisans. We urge him to keep up with the good work, and may Almighty Allah bless his bread too.”

Several other beneficiaries sang the praises of Dangote for his compassion and notable effort in helping struggling Nigerians. They all hailed “Mr Dangote” as they received their bags and headed home joyfully.

Katsina State

The Aliko Dangote Foundation donated 35,000 bags of rice to the poor and vulnerable people in Katsina State. Representative of the Foundation, Mustapha Umar, at the flag of the distribution explained that the beneficiaries were selected across the 361 wards of the 34 Local Government Areas (LGA) of the state.

He said the Foundation provided the support to the beneficiaries as part of its humanitarian gesture to cushion the economic hardship being facedbyvulnerablepersons.Accordingtohim,the gesture in Ramadan is intended to complement government efforts to improve the wellbeing of the people. According to him,“This year’s gesture is targeting over one million vulnerable Nigerians, aimed at reducing their hardship due to the economic situation in the country. The Foundation is in various parts of the country to offer similar support to assist people, especially Muslims to observe the Ramadan fasting with relative ease.”

Hesaid94personswillbenefitfromthegesture from each of the political ward in the state.

The Hisbah Board Commander, Dr Aminu Usman, receiving the consignment on behalf of the Government said the support will go a long way in reducing the challenges of the poor. He commended theAlikoDangoteFoundationfortheinitiative, saying the gesture will complement the effort made by the state government through providing free Ramadan feeding among other things.

He called on other wealthy individuals to imbibe the culture of assisting the less privileged, especially in the holy month of Ramadan. Some of the beneficiaries, including physically challenged people, thanked the ADF for the food support, and other humanitarian assistance.

During the distribution of the 10kg bags of rice, some of the beneficiaries had to be wheeled to the venue to collect their share. The exercise was supervised by officials of the Katsina government, which included member of the Hisba Board, State Community Development Programme and other stakeholders.

Kwara State

Kwara State has commenced the distribution of 25,000 bags of 10kg rice donated by the Aliko Dangote Foundation to poor and vulnerable people in the state. The distribution is taking across the sixteen local government areas of Kwara state. Governor of Kwara State, His Excellency, Abdulrazaq Abdulrahman, flagging off the distribution assured that, “the rice, which will be distributed to indigent families across the state, comes at a crucial time, as our Muslim brothers and sisters observe the sacred month of Ramadan and our Christian brothers and sisters are in the season of Lent. It is an act of compassion that will provide much-needed relief to

those who are fasting and in need.”

He added “I would like to take this opportunity to commend the Aliko Dangote Foundation for this kind and selfless contribution. This gesture not only complements the ongoing efforts of the Kwara State Government to support vulnerable communities, but it also demonstrates the power of partnership between the public and private sectors in lifting our people out of hardship. We remain deeply grateful for the Dangote Foundation’scontinuedsupportforindigentpeopleacross the country. This generosity serves as a reminder of the importance of corporate social responsibility and the critical role philanthropists play in addressing poverty and hardship. I encourage other individuals and corporations to follow in the footsteps of the Dangote Foundation and similar bodies, as we work together to build a better, more inclusive society for all.”

Bauchi State

ADF donated 25,000 of 10kg bags of rice to provide relief to the needy across the 20 local Government areas of Bauchi State. State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Hajiya Hajara Yakubu Wanka who received the donation commended the Dangote Foundation for the gesture. Hajiya Hajara explained that Bauchi State was allocated 25, 000 of rice of 10 kg bags, each of the 20 LGA will receive 500 bags while, 10, 000 is allocated to mosques and churches, considering that the Christians community is also observing the annual Lenten fasting period, while the remaining 5, 000 will be shared to some critical stakeholders. She praised the initiative and called on wealthy Nigerians to emulate Dangote’s humanitarian efforts. She assured that the ministry would ensurethattheaidreachesthosewhoneeditmost.

The State ALGON chairman, Alhaji Mahmood Baba Ma’aji Abubakar on behalf of the 20 local governmentsinBauchi,commendedtheGovernor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed for extending the gesture to the local government councils of the state. He said that a few weeks ago, the Governor flagged off similar distribution which was also extended to the local government councils of the state “We appreciate His Excellency’s wisdom and commitment, sacrifice and service to humanity, and also extended the councils appreciation to the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management for identifying with the locals,”

Why the initiative

The N16 billion annual food relief initiative, spearheaded by Africa’s leading philanthropist, Aliko Dangote, aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of Zero Hunger, one that has been adopted and strongly upheld by the Group, evidencing its commitment to fighting food insecurity in Nigeria.

The foundation has also predominantly enhanced the daily feeding of vulnerable Nigerians before this initiative and has consistently championed the National Food Intervention Programme, where they disperse Dangote Bread daily in some states in Nigeria, including Lagos State, making it a double blessing for Lagosians during this period.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Lagos recently, ADF Chief Executive Officer Zouera Youssoufouemphasizedthefoundation’scommitment to fighting hunger, stating that the initiative reflects Alhaji Dangote’s deep compassion and concern for the less privileged.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, praised the initiative, noting its timely arrival during both Ramadan and Lent. “This is a special month of fasting by both Christians and Muslims,” Dr. Hamzat said. “One of the best ways to show the essence of this season is through giving to the needy.”

Dangote

LOXEA Introduces BYD Electric Vehicles in Nigeria

LOXEA Nigeria, a subsidiary of CFAO Mobility, has formally introduced the BYD (Build Your Dreams) electric vehicles to the vehicles, LOXEA becomes the pioneer in bringing a renowned Electric Vehicle (EV) brand to Nigeria.

LOXEA is a leading player in innovative range of 100% electric vehicles from BYD. As a pioneer in the deployment of electric vehicle solutions across the continent, LOXEA is bringing to Nigeria a comprehensive suite of services associated with electric vehicles. This includes the installation of electric charging stations, vehicle maintenance, repair services, and the provision of spare parts.

In addition to providing an inaugural charging station at the upcoming LOXEA Victoria an adaptable solution that allows customers to charge their EVs conveniently at home. The company said more information on this can be obtained from its website: https://www. byd-nigeria.com/ . Managing Director of LOXEA Nigeria, Mr. Mehdi Slimani, stated, “We are proud to distribute this type of electric vehicle and all its associated

L-R: BYD Sales Director, Africa and Middle East, Ramy Yao; CFA Group, BYD, Pierre Touloute; and MD, LOXEA Nigeria, Mehdi Slimani, during the launch of BYD Electric vehicles in Lagos, by CFAO Mobility Nigeria, held in Ikoyi, Lagos... yesterday

services. Our upcoming showroom in Victoria Island, Lagos will be a place dedicated to the discovery of BYD vehicles, combining modernity, comfort, and economy of use. It is very important for CFAO Mobility in Nigeria to participate in this way in the country’s energy transition and support our customers who wish to make the switch to electric.”

BYD is a high-tech multinational company and the world leader in electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. As a Fortune Global 500 enterprise, BYD relentlessly innovates to create a sustainable company in the world to achieve the milestone achieves 4.27 million new energy vehicle sales

in 2024, claiming the global sales champion in the third consecutive year.

CEO of CFAO Mobility, Marc Hirschfeld, emphasized the importance of this launch for both the company and the country, saying, “BYD is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of electric vehicles, with a level of innovation know-how that now matches the expectations of our markets in Africa. A whole new ecosystem has to be designed around mobility in African cities. This applies not only to individual and corporate customers, but also to stakeholders including urban public transport networks and government agencies.

LOXEA is a subsidiary of CFAO Mobility, specializing in providing innovative mobility solutions across Africa. With a commitment to sustainability and excellence, LOXEA delivers high-quality mobility services, from electric vehicle support.

About CFAO Mobility

Comprising the most extensive vehicle retail network in Africa, CFAO Mobility provide all partnering with global automotive manufacturers for new and used vehicle sales, short and long-term

LSM Plans to Boost Automotive Engineering in Lagos Technical College

The Automobiles Department at the Government Technical College, Aso-Soba in the Festac area of Lagos, will soon receive a boost as Lanre Shittu Motors (LSM) moves to adopt it in order to raise its academic and practical programme standards.

The company said this would involve adequate funding, in-school training and intensive industrial training (IT) with welfare package to encourage more young people to pursue academic career in automotive engineering. Business Support/Admin Manager of LSM, Mr Babatunde Adenuga, disclosed this in Lagos, in an interview with journalists.

Adenuga represented the LSM Managing Director, Mr Taiwo Shittu, at the just concluded Engineering Week of the college sponsored by the auto company, where he unveiled

department functional and standard, he said LSM would provide the tools, overall wears/workshop uniform, among others, as part of the welfare package for the students.

He said it would be a win-win situation for the school and the company.

trouble of running the department away from them.

“Students from the department can come for their internship at LSM workshops, and getting jobs after school won’t be

“For us, it will be a seamless arrangement in getting suitable personnel familiar with our training and business orientation.”

He also said the LSM had been absorbing students from the school and others for their industrial training (IT), providing them with useful hands-on training and monthly stipend to keep them going.

The LSM MD, Taiwo Shittu, commenting on the support, said, “We’ll be part of the progress of the school. We want to own a department in the technical college, the automobile department of studies that will enable us to fund the place; take care of the welfare of students, providing the tools, overall uniform and other facilities.”

Lanre Shittu Motors Supports EV Bus Design Competition in Universities

One of the frontline auto companies in Nigeria, Lanre Shittu Motors (LSM), has thrown its weight behind the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC)’s competition of building 8-Seater Electric Campus Shuttle Buses for 12 Nigerian universities cutting across all the geo-political zones of the country.

The company is a major supporter of the competition which kicked off last week with the commissioning of eight units of EV bus shuttle at the University of Lagos, with representatives from different schools gracing the event.

The competition is expected to last for six months. Aside from supporting the event, a technical representative of LSM is also part of the jury which is made of auto industry players, academia and the NADDC.

Commenting on the development, the Managing Director of LSM, Mr. Taiwo Shittu, said, “We as a company like to support and encourage young

talents who have interest in the automotive industry.

“It is also our own way of supporting the NADDC initiative of encouraging young brains in the country

“Encouraging and training the youths is part of

our Corporate Social Responsibility. Before now, every years, we take in youths into our facility and train them, even while in training, we give them stipends, and we are still doing this.”

The MD added, “We do not stop at training and

Kojo Motors Opens CNG Conversion Centre in Owerri

Kojo Motors, one of Nigeria’s leading automobile dealership and manufacturing company has established a centre in Owerri, Imo State, for the conversion of petrol-powered vehicles to the use of compressed natural gas (CNG).

This project has received commendation from the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) for partnering with them.

The Director General of the NADDC, Joseph Oluwemimo Osanipin, commended Kojo Motors during the Compressed Natural

Gas (CNG) Empowerment and Awareness Summit 2025 with the theme “Building a Youth-Based Nation through Cleaner Energy.”

Osanipin said that, the the purpose of the summit is to create awareness and sensitise the public on safety, standards and regulation in the use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as a better alternative source of energy for mobility.

NADDC, he said, is equipping technicians with the knowledge, skills and competencies vehicles to run on CNG.

The Council, a parastatal under the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and

Investment, “has the regulatory oversight on the Nigerian Automotive Industry to initiate, recommend, supervise and regulate policies and programmes for locally manufactured vehicles and components in Nigeria,” he said.

According to him, “the Council has worked tirelessly to ensure the survival and growth of this sector with a view to enhancing its contribution to the national economy.

“As part of the CNG Conversion programme, 60 technicians will be receiving hands-on training in converting vehicles to run on CNG which would run for 5 days from the March 17 to March 21, 2025.”

giving stipends, we also provide basic workshop tools to those we train, and employ some of them.”

The participating universities in the competition are Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; Uthman Danfodio University, Sokoto; Modibbo Adama University, Yola; Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi; University of Abuja; and University of Ilorin, Kwara State.

Others are University of Nigeria, Nsukka; Federal University of Technology, Owerri; University of Benin; Obafemi Awolowo University, Ife; University of Lagos; and University of Port Harcourt.

At the commissioning event, which was held at the University of Lagos, and witnessed by auto industry operators, academia, top NADDC staff and the press, the Director General of the NADDC, Mr. Joseph Osanipin, stated that the Council would give its full support to the competition, tasking the contenders, made up of students and supported by lecturers from the concerned schools, to come up with practical and workable solutions suitable for the Nigerian environment.

CNG-powered vehicles at Kojo Motors centre in Owerri

Automotive engineering students

Director General of NADDC, Mr. Joseph Osanipin (fifth from right) with Lanre Shittu Motors officials and other stakeholders at the kick off of the EV Campus Shuttle Bus design competition at UNILAG… recently

SOLUDO SOLUTION AND SOLVENT BACKPAGE CONTINUATION

The governor is armed with a document that can best be described as a 50-year development plan, as the anchoring peg for the Soludo solution towards a greater Anambra; as the Peoples Manifesto. The Manifesto and vision are to lay the foundations for that new Anambra he envisioned in 2006, and which he has further fleshed out since then. It is a schematic framework for making the state a liveable and prosperous mega city, as well as a preferred destination to live, work, learn, and expand in. Soludo wants the Anambra State to be “a destination”, rather than a bus stop, or departure lounge. But a destination must be welcoming and not inclement. Yes, Anambra has the right combination of possibilities for greatness. To make the state the Dubai, Taiwan Silicon Valley of Africa, is to explore and exploit what it shares with Dubai, like location and the type of borders and neighbours it has; and it’s having the largest market in west Africa.

The Taiwan element is about the peculiarities Taiwan shares with Anambra State, as a tiny physical space with abundant human capital. This is the primary resource that Taiwan has made the bedrock of its current industrialized status. It simply mined and deployed its human capital, without apologies. And Soludo is saying, as he has been saying for over a decade, that this is part of the cocktail of what needs to happen, for Anambra State to fully actualize its possibilities in Nigeria and Africa.

Coming to the much-misunderstood talk about Silicon Valley, it begins with a simple acknowledgement of the fact that technology is the future. It then moves on to the thesis that whoever refuses to follow current and emerging technologies, in addition to innovations, in today’s world is heading straight into oblivion with a first-class ticket. And Soludo was saying, back then in 2006, not only that Anambra has the human capital, knowledge and creative spirit to create a Silicon Valley but that it can and should be created.

The state is currently building its own Silicon Valley, but that’s not the point. The essential issue for me here is a Hub in African that can become outstanding by exhibiting capacity, keying into the Global knowledge industry at the highest level of technology, and strategically deploys the very things that make Dubai and Taiwan what they are

That’s aspiration Soludo anchors on five main pillars, designed to dovetail into each other in such a way that a mutually reinforcing ecosystem of variegated developmental possibilities is created. These pillars include, but are not limited to, security,, economic transformation, infrastructural development and rehabilitation, human capital reengineering and a holistic social Agenda. All of these are capped with an overarching focus on completely reforming the way government works, as well as the underlying value system for sustainable service delivery; with sustainable institutional efficiency.

Surely an “African Dubai Taiwan Silicon Valley” will not be possible without the right the right kind of human beings. Values, not resources, define a people. It is because he was convinced that a new leadership culture for Anambra State must be simultaneously undergirded by a determination to create and entrench a new leadership and organizational culturebthat Soludo has been trying to drive and entrench the right kind of values with a view to holistic and lasting impact.

His “Solution”, as the process of designing, developing, installing, nurturing, reinforcing and drilling down accountability and responsible citizenship rests on a long-term perspective. It is the desire to bring about a habitat with the right type of value chains and viable dependencies, wherein progressive backward integration creates and drives an ecosystem that would make Anambra the hub Soludo has in mind.

It is within this context, and against this background, that government should epitomize transparency and

digitised services project an expanded understanding of his notion of “environment”. This means seen “environment”; beyond the purely physical to include value-laden Rules of Engagement, the Regulatory Climate, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and much more.

Now, lets step back some five years ago, as the idea began to float in the air that Soludo would replace Willy Obiano as governor of Anambra State. His call came in, concerning a Development Agenda for Anambra for the next 50 years. “This is a serious discussion for only the best, and it needs to be thought through in detail and objectively. You just have to be available, because, as our people say “Achuzia aja ma afuro udene, i malu na ife melu an be ndi nmuo” (Literally, and in context: “There should be cause for concern if certain things are done without the involvement of certain people).

A Draft Document was available for detained discussion and we were to deal with that over dinner, with a team from a very reputable international organization that would fly in to join us. The rest, as they say, is history.

Today Anambra state has the national price of 700,000 dollars for primary health. It is also the South East champion, with a Cash Price of 500,000 dollars. All government programmes in the state are intentional. The refurbishment of 326 primary health centres in the 326 electoral wards, complete with solar power, water and equipment, in addition to the recruitment of over 1000 medial personnel are extant realities.

Secondary level healthcare in the state, with telemedicine to secondary call centres for access to a doctor are real. So are five new general hospitals and three refurbished ones. That is in addition to free antenatal services, including free medication, and free caesarean sections. The state now has the biggest trauma centre, at amaku, with a new smart nursing college that will most probably come on stream before the end of the year. We say nothing

about a comprehensive international cancer centre, which is part of a complete ecosystem that has the primary healthcare framework at the base of this pyramid. The Ochanja roundabout that was once a dreaded refuse dump now hosts a water fountain. The government is talking about 120 sterling achievements over the last 3 years. There are gains in security, through a synergised targeting of illicit drugs supply channels, distribution networks and consumption patterns. The nexus established between the foregoing and kidnapping, land grabbing, and warped value system has now been developed into a template for tackling the growing menace of youths trying to get something without working for it. It is a new social enterprise with, with churches community, traditional rulers and markets all in tow.

Some 650 kilometres of fibre optics are emplaced, for a digital state with internet access all round. Anambra State is Rated number one on fiscal transparency, under Soludo. It is number three in terms of fiscal sustainability in the country. It has digitized land administration to over 90 per cent. Its Clean and Green initiative has planted over a million trees, to save the environment. Some 2.2 million coconut, palm and other commodity trees have been given to 200,000 households, at the rate of 10 per households.

The state now boasts of free education, with over 8000 new teachers employed.

The other, more visible,visible achievements, mainly in road infrastructure, include the Amansea–Ndiukwuenu–Ufuma, the dualisation of the Amawbia–Ekwulobia road, extending towards the Imo State border. Then there is the impressive flyover at Ekwulobia and another at Awka. He has completed the new Governor’s Lodge. There is a rail master plan for the state which, if implemented, would be revolutionary. All said, so far so good. More can still be donespecially in tax administration and related matters.

PBAT@73: A LEADER OF BOLD, AUDACIOUS, TENACIOUS REFORMS, RENEWED HOPE

social safety nets and education just to mention a few. He also rallied the Central Bank of Nigeria to unify the exchange rate, restoring investor confidence by clearing $5 billion in forex obligations. Government revenue has doubled to over N9 trillion, while debt servicing costs dropped from 97 percent to 68 percent.

In the oil and gas sector, production rose to 1.61 million barrels per day, and the Port Harcourt Refinery resumed operations. His Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Initiative has cut transport costs by 60 percent. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) deals worth over $500 million are boosting job creation.

His administration prioritizes education and youth empowerment, launching the Student Loan Scheme with N45.6 billion already processed and N50 billion allocated. Programs like Skill Up Artisans (SUPA), Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA), and National Talent Export Programme (NATEP) are equipping youths with employable skills. His governance reforms also include financial autonomy for local governments, a 300 percent salary increase for judges, and a minimum wage hike from N30,000 to N70,000. His leadership fosters efficiency, innovation, and impactful governance that are shaping and strengthening Nigeria’s progress.

For setting up a team comprising young people, technocrats and experts who have shown competence across their fields, the president’s vision was clear: governance must work for the people, and every institution must function with efficiency, integrity, and accountability. This guiding principle has empowered all appointees to drive historic reforms in various Ministries, Department and Agencies. For instance, the Ministry of Interior has transformed border security with a state-of-the-art Bola Ahmed Tinubu Technology Innovation Complex (BATTIC) commissioned to serve as the technological nerve centre with sophisticated facilities such as the 8.3 petabyte Tier-4 Data Centre, the ECOWAS Biometric Card Production Centre, Visa Approval Centre, the Command and Control Centre and the deployment of the Advanced Passenger Information System (APIS) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) which has revolutionised border management. Today, through the support of Mr President, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) can now pre-profile travellers before they arrive into the country.

While this facility is a game-changer in the use of datadriven approach and technology to beef-up our border management, the solution also integrates global security databases into our immigration systems.

The introduction of e-gates at our international airports has streamlined immigration processes, while centralised passport application process and a contactless renewal system have made travel documentation seamless. Even more is that it saves the government billions of naira annually as well as gives Nigerians comfort without compromising national security.

For the first time, Nigeria has been enrolled in ICAO’s global security system including the PKD/PKI (Public Key Directory and Public Key Infrastructure), a system

that is instrumental to enhancing passport acceptability in compliance with global standards. This was done after the service had cleared its backlog of passport applications over of 200, 000 within three weeks.

With a new visa policy set to be activated, Nigeria is opening up its space for tourists, investors and foreigners. This is the Renewed Hope agenda of Mr. President in action, creating a conducive business environment for all without jeopardising national security.

Nigeria has also expanded electronic border surveillance, now covering 60 percent of Nigeria’s 4,047km border space following the deployment of technological solutions. Over 30 operational vehicles have been added to the fleet of vehicles dedicated to the surveillance and patrol of our borders, ensuring better territorial integrity.

Reforms in the Nigerian Correctional Service have seen biometric registration of all inmates, aiding security efforts. Within few months of the Tinubu government, over 4000 inmates held in custody for their inability to pay petty fines were released via a collaboration with the private sector to raise about N600 million to this end. This singular act decongested the already overcrowded correctional facilities by five percent. This also saved the government over a billion naira that could have been appropriated to feeding these inmates.

As of today, the government has approved and commenced the implementation of a 50% upward review of the feeding allowance of inmates across correctional centres in the country. Beyond feeding allowance, the government has also swiftly swing into action in ensuring inmates are given the best of care with the renovation currently ongoing in the correctional facilities across the country. Kuje Correctional Centre and at least 10 other have worn a new look.

The government has also approved the relocation of 29 correctional centres already encroached by urbanisation across the country. For instance, the Agodi Correctional centre in Ibadan, Oyo State is situated right inside a market while the Ikoyi Correctional centre shares a fence with the Polo club. Not only is this against international practices and protocols, it is also a violation of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act (2019) which provides for a 100m buffer between a correctional facility and the next building.

In making the correctional centre a place of correctional, reformation, transformation and reintegration rather than a place of incarceration, deformation, and condemnation, the government has trained thousands of inmates in vocational skills to reduce the rate of recidivism.

Today, inmates can now dream again and can fulfil their dreams of acquiring degrees even up to PHD level with a lot of them now enrolled in different courses in the National Open University.

Furthermore, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has been empowered to fulfil its core mandate of protecting critical national assets and infrastructure.

The corps has swiftly moved to address critical issues such as oil bunkering, pipeline vandalization, protection of power and telecommunications facilities across the country. In the last few months, it has destroyed over one thousand

TRIBUTE TO DOYIN OKUPE

go to every state for campaign, and we have 100 million Naira available for that day, Doyin Okupe will put all the money on the table, and all the directors will sit, we would distribute the money, and every deficit of 3, 4, 5, 10 million Naira, he will produce from his account, or he will raise it from elsewhere. After the campaign, he was left in debt. He never went anywhere, even though the campaign had billions. He paid for them himself.

And today I watch in the media people say rubbish about such a man. I have never in my life, in my political journey, even though I’m pretty young, but I started quite early in life, I’ve never seen any

politician that I’ve worked with that was that honest and transparent. Yet, 18 months after the campaign, he was still with the party he was working with. He was in pains, like you all heard. He was deserted by the people he worked with. At some point, I reached out on his behalf.

They never called him or said, how are you feeling? They didn’t pick his call. And people sit down and say, he left them because of money. That man was honourable.

He didn’t go back to APC because of money. He told me one day, he said, Balami, I went back because I’ve seen it all. And I went back to reconcile with

illegal refineries and over 200 illegal oil dumps.

The NSCDC has secured over 345 convictions, with 187 cases in court, while new operational vehicles, gunboats, and 10,000 trained agro-rangers now safeguard farms and the Mine Marshals now keep mining sites safe.

The Fire Service has undergone a comprehensive rebranding, featuring world-class infrastructure designed to significantly reduce fire-related incidents nationwide. With the support of the President, 15 Rapid Response Vehicles and six heavy-duty fire trucks have been procured to enhance operational efficiency. Additionally, extensive renovations are underway at the National Fire Academy, with the goal of remodelling the institution to meet international standards and hub of capacity building for the west Africa sub region

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) only within few weeks last year cleared a backlog of over two million National Identification Number modification requests. This aligns with ongoing efforts to enhance identity management services in the country.

The commission currently boasts of over 120 million enrolment in the national digital database. Also, in line with its commitment to streamlining the National Identity Management Commission’s database, the ministry has uncovered about 6,000 individuals from foreign countries who prior to this administration have illegally obtained National Identity Numbers (NIN). Furthermore, through collaboration with 257 institutions, a total of 332,715 students have been successfully registered for loans, with over 18,000 students already receiving payments under the student loan initiative.

With the new Expatriate Administration System by the Ministry of Interior, the government is better poised to securing the country as well as supporting economic recovery plan by ensuring that all Expatriates working within the shores of Nigeria are documented in the database of the Nigeria Immigration Service.

We cannot thank the President enough. He has used his good office to turn challenges to opportunities for growth and development. All inherited promotion backlogs for paramilitary officers have been cleared with over 50,000 paramilitary officers across agencies under the Ministry of Interior promoted within eighteen months. Since its establishment in 1986, the Civil Defence Correctional Fire and Immigration Services Board had never commenced and completed promotion exercise in a calendar year. As we speak, the 2025 promotion exercise has started and is scheduled to be completed in the next few months.

In strengthening the Board, the government has approved the expansion of its establishment structure to create vacancies and career path and growth.

These acts of Mr President brought an end to career stagnation. Needless to talk about the approval and payment of peculiar and rent allowances for paramilitary officers to keep their morale high.

Recently, the government approved the establishment of the National Paramilitary Academy which is a degreeawarding institution, like the Nigerian Defence Academy,

people that never hurt me. And I want you guys to live in peace with everybody.

One day, after a major surgery in the UK, Dr. Doyin Okupe landed in Abuja with the people he laboured for. They entered their cars, they saw how he crawled to the car after a major surgery. Six hours flight, he couldn’t sleep on board. They were beside him. And they never called him 18 months later.

And the same people can’t even say a word to say he was a good man. He was persecuted because of them. Yet, they did not.

So for me, Dr. Doyin Okupe for me is somebody that I love so much. And I’m happy it is left for us.

that will train young persons. Young Nigerians will be admitted through the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and undergo a rigorous four- to five-year training program. Upon graduation, they will receive certification and be deployed to manage paramilitary operations nationwide efficiently.

Today, through the foresight of Mr President, we have moved from talks to action, a stage where policies don’t end on papers but are translated to actions —going on to become the foundation of a more secure, efficient, and accountable Nigeria.

Beyond the achievements of our ministry, the impact of the Renewed Hope Agenda is evident across various sectors, driven by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s strategic interventions and leadership.

One of the most significant infrastructure projects in Africa is the ongoing Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, a 700-kilometer expressway designed to improve connectivity and economic activity across nine states. Construction of the first phase, spanning 47.47 kilometres from Lagos, commenced in March 2024 and is set for completion by May 2025.

The ongoing reconstruction of the Lagos-Ibadan Motorway, the completion of the Second Niger Bridge, and the expansion of the rail network further reflect the government’s commitment to infrastructure, facilitating trade, reducing travel time, and creating employment opportunities.

The ambitious 1,068 kilometres Sokoto – Badagry super highway project which first phase will be completed in 2027, and traversing nine states along that corridor, speaks to the commitment of the government to the connectivity of one end of Nigeria to another end for economic prosperity. In the process, about 63 dams would be built to guarantee the enhancement of Nigeria’s agricultural potentials, as well as help to generation of power. These are legacy projects that would outlive the president himself.

Today, Nigeria has also secured billions in investment commitments from international partners, including India and the Netherlands, and successfully issued a Eurobond, demonstrating strong investor confidence.

The launch of the Nigerian Minerals Resource Decision Support software, a digital platform designed to facilitate investment in the sector, and the establishment of the Nigeria Solid Minerals Corporation with the approval of a 50% equity stake for the private sector, 25% for Nigerians, and 25% for the Federal Government, will significantly transform the mining sector and lay the foundation for its sustainable development.

Strategic diplomatic efforts have further strengthened Nigeria’s economic prospects. Renewed cooperation with Brazil has led to large-scale investments in agriculture and industry. This has facilitated the launch of the Green Imperative Agricultural Technology Initiative that is designed to advance food security and mechanized farming.

NOTE: Read full article online on www.thisdaylive.com

He has done his own part. Anything you sow in this life, you will reap. For the few “obidient” insulting this man on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, they are very, very ignorant. But he has already forgiven you, he told me. And he told everybody. Even the ones that he expected so much from, he forgave them. So let me just stop here so I don’t begin to go too deep. God bless you all. May God bless Doyin Okupe, wherever he is.

*Engr. Balami was Deputy Campaign Manager Obi/ Datti Presidential Campaign Council

Éric Chelle Not the Magic Wand

Not many Nigerians were happy when the Nigeria Football Federation,NFF,announced the appointment of former Mali Coach, Eric Chelle as the new man in charge of the Super Eagles.Questions were raised on the pedigree of the Malian,whose record was seen as not matching the Nigerian senior national male team’s standard.For some,his appointment was seen as a slight on the country’s former footballers most of whom played at the highest level and some of whom boast of coaching certificates that dwarfs those of Chelle.However,after he led Nigeria to defeat Rwanda 2-0 in Kigali in the 2026World Cup qualifier,a team that hitherto could not record win in four games to keep the hope of qualification,there was a feeling that for the first time,the NFF got it right on its appointment of coaches for the Super Eagles and felt Chelle was indeed the jigsaw the team had been missing.However,after Tuesday’s home draw with Zimbabwe,a team that was rock bottom in the Group C log,it goes to show that the result the Malian pulled in Kigali was just an unrealistic expectation,writes

Kunle Adewale

Before the appointment of Malian Coach, Eric Chelle, and with just three points from four matches and placed fifth in the six-team table, football crazy Nigerians had lost any hope on the Super Eagles qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup; but after defeating Rwanda 2-0 in Kigali penultimate Friday, there was a renewed hope in the air and Nigerian fans felt Chelle and his men, would take the momentum to their next home game against Zimbabwe. But, it was not to be, as the Super Eagles could not hold to their 1-0 lead and conceded a last minute equalizer to shatter the dream of fans of hoisting the country’s flag at the Mundial.

Speaking with THISDAY after the Nigeria’s 2-0 win over Rwanda, former Super Eagles striker, Emmanuel Emenike praised the team for putting up an impressive performance in Kigali.

“From what I saw yesterday, they really did well. It was a better performance from their previous qualifier matches. It was quite different. They came out and did their best.

“Now that the team had gone away and won 2-0, they should keep the hope of Nigerians alive and the momentum and go for the kill against Zimbabwe,” Emenike said.

Asked to evaluate Chelle tactically after his first game, the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations winner said, “The coach was good tactically in the way he mixed up the players, talked to them and encouraged them. I think he’s the right coach for the Super Eagles. I watched him while he was coaching Mali and I felt he was good. He did well with the Mali national team.

“I think he is the right choice for Nigeria, though we cannot judge him after only one game. We can only start judging him after watchinghimplaythreeorfourmatches,but the team did really well against Rwanda.”

The Super Eagles’ hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup as Group C winners now hang in the balance following a disappointing 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Tuesday.

“We made some mistakes; we were the better team on the pitch. This is football. It is difficult for me to analyse the game right now; we will review it later,” Chelle said in the post-match press conference.

“I don’t want to blame the defenders,” he stated, acknowledging that the entire team bore responsibility for the result.

Chelle also lamented Nigeria’s wastefulness in front of goal, particularly in the first half, where the team failed to capitalise on clear-cut chances.

“What can I say about the first half? Normally, we could have scored 10 goals

in the first half. You make some mistakes in the last technical skills and Zimbabwe comes to defend and stop the game.

“In the second half, when we scored the goal, we thought maybe it is finished. It is tough, it’s hard because my players and my team were the better team on the pitch,” Chelle said. “I am so disappointed for my players, for the country because we can do it. I don’t know the other games, I think we can go to look for the second place,” the Malian concluded.

However, Zimbabwe’s manager, Michael Nees has boasted that the Warriors would have stunned Nigeria if more time was awarded due to stoppages.

The Warriors, bottom of Group C of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, with four points after six games, caused a sensation by holding the Super Eagles to a 1-1 draw at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Tuesday evening.

Speaking at the post-match press conference,Neeshighlightedhisteam’sdetermination and fighting spirit.

“They came with a little confidence and theywantedtoturntheWorldCupqualification around. We knew the longer the game goes, the slower they are going to get, it was exactlythewayitwasgoing,”Neesexplained, acknowledging Nigeria’s strong start but also his team’s tactical awareness.

“Of course, they scored but we showed that we don’t give up. I think two, three more minutes we would have come home with a win. Your team in defence was physical. One or two more attacks we could have finished the job,” he noted.

Meanwhile, Nigeria could be handed a

lifeline in their bid to qualify for the World Cup following confirmation that Group C leaders with 13 points, South Africa fielded an ineligible player during their 2-0 victory over Lesotho four days ago.

Having picked up two yellow cards, 2023 Africa Cup of Nations star Teboho Mokoena was supposed to serve a onematch ban and should not have played against Lesotho.

Mokhosi Mohapi, secretary-general of the Lesotho Football Association, confirmed that a formal inquiry regarding Mokoena has been sent to both Fifa and Caf. “If it is true, we will see what happens in the coming days,” Chelle said.

Should Lesotho’s appeal over Mokoena be upheld, they would move up to nine points, while South Africa’s tally could drop to 10, three more than Nigeria, with four matches still to play.

The three-time African champions thought they had managed to secure backto-back wins after Victor Osimhen broke the deadlock with a trademark header in the 74th minute, only to concede a stoppage time equalizer.

Emineke indeed warned on the over reliance on Victor Osimhen, saying it’s a dangerous trend for the Super Eagles.

“Over reliance on Osimhen is dangerous for the team because you’re creating a situation whereby whenever he’s not in team there will be doubts in the team’s ability. Good enough, however, the Super Eagles have a good replacement for Osimhen in Victor Boniface whom I believe could do better for the team but he needs to be confident in himself for him to start scoring goals,” the former West Ham of England forward outlined.

Eric Chelle passing instructions to Super Eagles players

Turkish Pundit Says Osimhen’s Galatasaray’s Still in Limbo

Turkish football pundit, Cem Dizdar has warned that there is something brewing behind the scenes regarding the future of Victor Osimhen, stating that the striker’s representative has been withholding crucial information about his client’s next transfer.

The 2015 Fifa U17 World Cup winner has made a splash in Turkey, notching 26 goals in 30 matches across all competitions.

Speculation surrounding the future of the Nigeria international has intensified following his outstanding displays for Galatasaray, with reports linking him with possible moves to Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain in the

Boniface’s

summer window

Galatasaray are keen to retain the services of the Napoli-owned player but will likely be priced out of a move as he has a release clause of €75 million.

With Osimhen’s agent being unusually vocal, questions are now being raised about potential negotiations happening behind the scenes.

HT Sports commentator Cem Dizdar has suggested that there may be more to Osimhen’s situation than meets the eye.

“Victor Osimhen’s manager has started talking too much. When a manager starts talking too much, there is something else going on,” he was quoted

as saying by habersarikirmizi.

He is hiding things from us that we are trying to see. The smell will come out soon anyway.”

Osimhen joined Turkish champions Galatasaray last September after failed deadline day moves to Premier League giants Chelsea and Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli.

Dizdar highlighted how few expected the Nigerian to replace Mauro Icardi, yet Galatasaray made it happen.

“Players like Osimhen suit big clubs like Galatasaray, but they always have to think of plan B.

“No one thought that Victor Osimhen would replace Mauro

Goal for Leverkusen Puts Pressure on Bayern Munich

Super Eagles striker, Victor Boniface made a triumphant return to club football, scoring a decisive goal in Bayer Leverkusen’s 3-1 victory over Bochum at the BayArena yesterday night.

Boniface, who has struggled for consistent game time since recovering from injury in January, delivered a crucial second-half strike to secure all three points for Leverkusen.

The Nigerian striker started the match as Xabi Alonso’s side aimed to close the gap on Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich.

With German midfielder, Florian Wirtz and Nathan Tella

were sidelined due to injuries, Boniface started alongside Patrik Schick in Leverkusen’s attack.

Leverkusen took the lead in the 20th minute through Spanish midfielder Alex García, but Bochum responded before halftime with an equalizer from Felix Passlack.

Boniface put the host ahead in the 60th minute, slotting home a brilliant cross from Piero Hincapié to restore Leverkusen’s advantage.

The goal ensures that Alonso’s men keep up the pressure on Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga title race, with three points separating both clubs presently. Meanwhile, Amine Adli

secured the victory with an excellent strike with three minutes to the end of the game.

The Nigerian forward, who saw limited action during the international break, will hope to use this performance as a stepping stone to reclaiming a regular starting spot in the team.

Boniface has enjoyed a solid season, registering 11 goals and one assist in 23 matches across all competitions.

Alonso will be counting on him to maintain his form as Leverkusen continues its push for the Bundesliga title.

Alves’ Four and a Half Years Rape Conviction Quashed

Former Barcelona and Brazil defender, Dani Alves has had a rape conviction overturned on appeal by a Spanish court.

The appeals division of Catalonia’s High Court of Justice unanimously upheld the appeal by the 41-year-old and acquitted him, saying the case against him had “inconsistencies and contradictions”.

Alves was sentenced to four and a half years in prison in February 2024 after being found guilty of sexually assaulting a woman in a Barcelona nightclub in 2022.

The former full-back, who earned 126 international caps, was released on bail in March 2024 while his appeal was heard by a higher court.

The appeal court said that the ruling in the original court case “contains, throughout the reasoning, a series of gaps, inaccuracies, inconsistencies and contradictions regarding the facts, the legal assessment and their consequences.

“The complainant’s account, which should have been subjected to greater scrutiny,

has not been compared with the fingerprint and biological evidence, which support the defence’s argument.”

Further, the court ruled that the complainant’s argument that she went with Alves into the bathroom for fear that his friends might follow them did not appear reasonable.

It concluded that the alleged victim instead “voluntarily went to the bathroom area for the purpose of being with the defendant in a more intimate space.”

NDDC Creating Equal Opportunities through NDSF, Says Iyaye

Niger Delta Sports Festival (NDSF) as an intervention project of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) was designed to include all youths in the region irrespective of gender and physical abilities.

Alabo Boma Iyaye, the Executive Director Finance and Administration explained yesterday that the intent behind the design while appearing on the ARISE News television Morning Show and said it

speaks to global practises of inclusivity in sports and other aspects of life.

Explainingtherationale for including Para-Athletics and Para-lifting in the 17 games festival event, Iyaye said, “there are youths in the region with physical disabilities and they must enjoy the benefits of the NDDC intervention”.

“At the international level, we have the Paralympic Games organised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to

cater for persons with physical disabilities and the Niger Delta Sports Festival cannot deviate from the international best practices” remarked Iyaye who also serves as the Chairman of the NDSF Main Organising Committee (MOC).

He also spoke of the reason behind the NDDC decision to extend its intervention program to Sports, noting that “sports is a powerful too for national unity.

Ndidi Apologises to Fans over Missed Goal against Zimbabwe

Super Eagles midfielder, Wilfred Ndidi has apologised to Nigerian fans following his bad miss in the Super Eagles’ 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe on Tuesday, Soccernet.ng reports. Nigeria stumbled again in their push for a 2026 FIFA World Cup spot on Tuesday as they settled for a 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabi Stadium in Uyo. It was a game that Nigeria could have easily won by a

big margin. But a combination of profligacy from the Super Eagles and moments of brilliance from the Zimbabwean goalkeeper Washington Arubi ensured that Nigeria was limited to just one goal.

One of the culprits on the day was Ndidi. The Leicester City star had a good game, but he missed a big opportunity late in the game. He was played through on goal, with only the goalkeeper to beat. However, he blazed his shot over the bar.

Ndidi has been heavily criticized for that miss. And reacting to insults from fans, he shared an apology on Instagram. The 28-year-old midfielder wrote, “Please make una no vex for goal wey I miss. Nobody perfect for him job.”

Aside from his miss, Ndidi had a great game. He put up a solid show in midfield until the final minutes. Zimbabwe’s goal came about due to a momentary loss of focus and some complacency.

Carrick Hails Iheanacho’s Commitment to Working Hard after WCQ’s Snub

Middlesbrough manager, Michael Carrick has praised Kelechi Iheanacho’s commitment to regaining his form following his exclusion from Nigeria’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Despite making the 39-man provisional list, Iheanacho was left out of the final squad for Nigeria’s matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

Instead of dwelling on the setback, the 28-year-old used the international break to focus on personal training in Manchester.

In a video shared on Ins-

The City of Aba in Abia State will be agog as Aba Sports Club 1926 Golf Section Captain/Lady Captain’s Inaugural Golf Tournament tees-off today.

Chief Greg Esotu, Chairman, Local Organising Committee (LOC) noted that the tournament will feature over 170 amateur and invited professional golfers across Nigeria including West African amateur champions like Bill Amechi and Ifeoma Onwuchekwa.

Furthermore, he revealed that Captains and Lady Captains from golf clubs in the South-South and South-East States are also participating in today’s event.

tagram, Iheanacho was seen undergoing intense fitness and ball work sessions with UEFA-qualified coach Kwaku Ohemeng, founder of the Seedorf Football Academy.

Since joining Middlesbrough from Sevilla in the winter transfer window, Iheanacho has struggled to make an impact, failing to register a goal or assist in seven league appearances.

However, Carrick remained confident that the Nigerian forward still has a crucial role to play in the team’s promotion push.

In quotes relayed by Teesside Live, Carrick highlighted Iheanacho’s work ethic and professionalism as key to his potential resurgence.

“That’s what it takes now. Kel’s definitely a big part of the group, and important because of his experience and his character. The way he trains and goes about his business, he’s a good example to the younger lads,” Carrick said.

“It’s taken him a few games to get really up to 100% in terms of sharpness and fitness, but he’ll have a big impact for us between now and the end of the season, I’m sure.”

He stated that funds raised through this tournament will be used primarily to meet the Exco budget for the year, which exceeds N170 million, towards equipment purchase/upgrade and course maintenance.

“The golf section Captain, Mr. Collins Ekwueme and Lady Captain, Chief Mrs. Comfort Jerry Kalu assumed office in May 2024, and to pilot the affairs till 2026.

“They have made tremendous development and innovation in the golf section. Within a few months in office, its course fairways and greens have been greatly improved with full GPS

Aba Sports Club 1926 Good Section Captain,

coordinates activated.

“The official tee-off for the tournament is 6:30am till 10am while closing ceremony and presentation of prizes holds from 5pm. The first 20 female golfers who registered for the event were given free accommodation,” he said.

Ogaga Emerges Winner of 6th Orodje of Okpe Golf Tourney

The ovation was loud as Gagophine Ogaga (hcp 2) played 65 net to emerge overall winner at the 6th Orodje of Okpe Golf Tournament held at Sapele Athletic Club Golf Section, Delta State, while John Okojie (hcp 2) won the best gross award with 73 gross.

The closing ceremony of the twodaymonarchtournament,sponsored by Seplat Energy, witnessed the

Orodje of Okpe, HRM Orhue 1, Major Gen. Felix Mujakperuo (rtd.), represented by his Prime Minister, Chief Michael Affe. Others were Okpe Kingdom Chiefs; Kingsley Udebor, Base Manager of Seplat Energy; representative of NNPC E and D Limited and many others.

In his address, Captain of the section, Alexander Verhees appreciated the monarch for

giving a level playing ground. He also thanked the sponsors, the Organising Committee headed by Dr. Edward Carpe and all participants for making the event a big success.

Similarly, the Monarch thanked the SAC golf section management committee for their consistency in putting Sapele Town on the global map through the tournament every year.

Victor Osimhen scored yesterday against Bochum

Ndidi against Rwanda

Over170 Golfers Tee-off at Aba Golf Club Captain/Lady Captain’s Inaugural Tourney Today

Mr. Collins Ekwueme

MISSILE

Fubara’s kinsmen to Tinubu

“Even though the Nigerian Constitution grants the President powers to declare a state of emergency under Section 305, it does not authorise the suspension of democratically elected officials, such as governors or members of the legislature” – Vice Chairman of Opobo Council of Chiefs, Edwin Brown, criticised the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State.

OKEY IKECHUKWU

okey.ikechukwu@thisdaylive.com

Soludo Solution and Solvent

“Iapplied for this job, my brother, and I am here to do it”; he said. That was Soludo a few months after he was sworn in as the governor of Anambra State. I ran into him at the Anambra airport. He had the air of: “I will dig it out here with everyone and everything that tries to stand in my way to saving Anambra State from everything that is holding it down today”.

While talking about his determination to do all the right things, he explained that he was in Anambra state to stay for good. Hear him: “I am not planning to go and live anywhere else after this job, so Obodo anyi ga-adi nma, ka anyi nolu ebe ndi fulu uzo no kitaa (our homeland shall be made good, so that we shall be where the rest of the enlightened world is today). We have to bring home and domesticate the 21st Century World many of us are already familiar and comfortable with out there. Will nilly, anyi ga afu isi ya. Anambra State must become the right type of living space and

economic destination for any 21st Century person”. I wished him well, assured him that i was always a phone

call away and we parted.

All things considered, Soludo is in Anambra Government House today as part of the project of actualizing an over two decades old vision and developmental perspective he has always had for his home state. Back in 2006, at an event organized by the League of Anambra Professionals (LAP), Soludo declared in his keynote speech that Anambra State was geographically, providentially and strategically positioned to be for Africa, and the world, all the good things for which Dubai and Taiwan are known and celebrated.

His speech at the aforementioned occasioned was titled “Envisioning Anambra as the African Dubai Taiwan Silicon Valley” (ADTS). He laid out this vision and dream on that occasion. Then he sought the office of governor through the electoral process, for vision actualization. That was a few years after the speech. The outcome of the election did not favour him. But he held unto the roots of his much-talked-about, and not always well understood, African Dubai Taiwan payoff line until he

go the chance to try his hands on governing the state. Several things are clear so far. Soludo does not back down. Right or wrong, depending on your perspective on any issue. He is not known to be afraid of his own voice, or of any other voice for that matter. Whether as a student union activist in the university of Nigeria Nsukka back then, or in all the positions he has held at various levels within and outside the country, he leaves a mark in broad outlines – and often with colourful strokes. He will always say “No complaints and no excuses, I will use my grey matter”.

Concerning Anambra State he said from the beginning: “I knew the problems, the economic challenges and the financial handicaps here before I became governor”. He believes in himself, his vision and his methods. He is poised to keep going, glitches or not, and is resolute about fully implementing a vision that has left him no peace for so long.

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PBAT@73: A Leader of Bold, Audacious, Tenacious Reforms, Renewed Hope

The world stood still on Monday, May 29, 2023, when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made the now-famous “Subsidy is gone” declaration at Eagle Square, Abuja, in his first address to the nation upon his inauguration as the 16th President of Nigeria, the biggest black nation on earth.

But today, we can all testify to the stability and growth within Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. In other words, the average Nigerian enjoyed a festive period without queues at fuel stations across the country in December 2023, and this trend continues. Nigeria has already bid farewell to “Egypt,” symbolising its emergence from a period of hardship.

resilience, reform, and renewal. Since assuming office, he has made the difficult decisions others feared to confront, prioritizing long-term stability over short-term populism.

Continued on page 44 OLUBUNMI

This declaration not only caught everyone by surprise, but observers, analysts, and commentators were also stunned and wondered how much courage the President had mustered before uttering those three words. “Did the President know what he had just said?” many asked.

Leadership is neither a title nor an office; it is an act of responsibility, a burden borne by those courageous enough to chart a new course for their people. In President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria has found a leader whose governance philosophy is built on the foundations of

The measure of a leader is not in comfort but in adversity. He took office at a time of economic turbulence, structural inefficiencies, and social discontent. Yet, rather than retreat, he advanced—ushering in policies that, while bold and sometimes uncomfortable, are shaping a Nigeria that is stronger, more stable, and primed for sustainable growth.

This is not just the passing of another year in the life of a statesman; it is a moment to reflect on the breadth of his reforms, the depth of his vision, and the courage with which he has navigated one of the most challenging periods in our nation’s history. Upon assuming office, President Tinubu faced economic challenges, including policy inconsistencies, unsustainable debt, and a distorted forex market. His administration swiftly addressed these issues. Today, one of his boldest moves was removing fuel subsidy to save trillions of naira for infrastructure, health,

Tribute to Doyin Okupe

Hmmm! Urmm, I don’t know where to actually start from, but I will start from somewhere. Baba Doyin Okupe was a father to all. And like I always gist with our friends, Mazi, Nina, Princess, and everybody, and we always talk, we said, his family don’t even know that he has so many children, aside them.

I’ve been privileged to be in politics as a very, very young boy, as a youth leader, youth mobilizer, but until I met with Dr. Doyin Okupe. The day I met with him, this is somebody from Ogun State, I’m from Maiduguri, Borno State, but he took me as a

son, he mentored, he guided me. My joy is that he was privileged to have an opportunity to actually reconcile with his creator. Not everybody on earth will have that kind of opportunity. Yes, it was painful, but everybody here who knows Dr. Doyin Okupe knows that he’s a very, very upright person. And I’m so happy today hearing from his children, his brothers and his sisters, his family members. Everything you people have said is the truth. As a matter of fact, when the son was speaking, everything he said was correct, except one thing that he did not say very well. And he said, when you offend Dr. Doyin Okupe and you genuinely ask

for forgiveness, he will forgive you. My brother, Dr. Doyin Okupe was in pains. People that he gave his all for deserted him, betrayed him, lied on him, yet he forgave them. And when the third hymn was being sung, the last four lines says, Oh,what peace we often forfeit. Oh, what needless pain we bear. All because we did not carry everything to God in prayer. That is for us. Baba Doyin Okupe took everything to God. And I’m happy that aside the love his family showed him, the last political party he went back to. Because you can’t talk about Dr. Doyin Okupe without talking about his political journey. He was a veteran in politics.

And the Chief of Staff to the President, Chief Gbajabiamila thank you very much. I was there. I saw the love, the support. Seyi Tinubu, everybody supported Dr. Doyin Okupe aside his family. And I’m very, very happy. Now, one thing that pained me the most is that today when you Google his name, you see some few people say all sorts of rubbish, I’m sorry, Pastor, about him. This man was selfless. The only campaign I’ve ever been to, I was the Campaign Manager 1 nationwide. He was the DG of a campaign I was part of, that to

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Soludo