SATURDAY 3RD MAY 2025

CBN Grows Operating Income

Tinubu in Katsina, Charges Security Agencies to Root Out Insurgency, Foreign Collaborators

Declares hunger, poverty, threats to peace Says every territory in Nigeria must be reclaimed Promises to support security agencies with advanced weapons, improved welfare Vows to complete Kano-Jigawa-Katsina-Maradi railway project in 2026

President Bola Tinubu yesterday, in Katsina, urged Nigerian security agencies to eliminate terrorists and their foreign collaborators to end the prevailing security challenges bedeviling the country.

He gave the charge while addressing military and other security personnel at the Umaru Musa Yar'adua International Airport. The President, who is in the State on a two-day working visit, directed the men and women in uniform to eliminate all terrorists and their foreign collaborators who have been terrorising the North-west and other regions of the country without delay.

He explained that Nigeria, under his leadership, would not bow to the treachery of the terrorists and their foreign collaborators, but would work assiduously to eliminate the nation’s

PRESIDENT TINUBU ON WORKING VISIT IN KATSINA...

L-R: Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Radda; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani; Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, and others during the inauguration of the 24 kilometre Eastern Bypass, in Katsina State…yesterday

Chuks Okocha in Abuja, Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia and Sunday Ehigiator in Lagos

Deji Elumoye in Abuja and Francis Sardauna in Katsina

Trump Ends Chinese Tariff Loophole, Raising Cost of Online Goods

Sunday Ehigiator with agency report

The Donald Trump’s administration yesterday, officially eliminated a loophole that had allowed American shoppers to buy cheap goods from China without paying tariffs.

The move will help U.S. manufacturers that had struggled to compete with a wave of lowcost Chinese products, but it has

already resulted in higher prices for Americans who shop online, New York Times reported.

The loophole, called the de minimis rule, allowed products up to $800 to avoid tariffs and other red tape as long as they were shipped directly to U.S. consumers or small businesses. It resulted in a surge of individually addressed packages to the United States, many shipped by air and ordered from rapidly

growing e-commerce platforms like Shein and Temu.

A growing number of companies used the loophole in recent years to get their products into the United States without facing tariffs.

After President Trump imposed duties on Chinese goods during his first term, companies started using the exemption to bypass those tariffs and continue to sell their products more cheaply to the United States.

Use of the loophole ramped up in Trump’s second term as he hit Chinese goods with a minimum 145 percent tariff.

In a cabinet meeting at the White House on Wednesday, Mr. Trump referred to the loophole as “a scam.”

“It’s a big scam going on against our country, against really small businesses,” he said. “And we’ve ended, we put an end to it.”

Trump’s decision was related

partly to concerns about the loophole’s use as a conduit for fentanyl into the United States.

The exemption allowed companies shipping inexpensive goods to submit less information to customs officers than other standard shipments. The administration said drug traffickers were “exploiting” the loophole by sending precursor chemicals and other materials used to manufacture fentanyl into the United States without having to provide shipping details. Growing use of the loophole also threatened U.S. jobs in warehousing and logistics. It encouraged major American retailers to ship more products directly from China to consumers’ doorsteps, avoiding larger shipments that were subject to tariffs and then distributed through U.S. warehouses and delivery networks.

TINUBU IN KATSINA, CHARGES SECURITY AGENCIES TO ROOT OUT INSURGENCY, FOREIGN COLLABORATORS

enemies.

He said the nefarious activities of bandits and insurgents have gone on for too long in the country, and must be tackled by all security agencies to ensure peace and stability of the country.

He added that the federal government was aware of the challenges faced by security personnel and has since taken bold steps to equip them with advanced equipment in order to flush out the marauding hoodlums.

He also promised to support security agencies with improved welfare.

Tinubu said: “Let your resolve echo through every valley and forest. Let the enemies of Nigeria know their time is up. This war will not be won by weapons alone but by your will to stand, resist, fight, and triumph.

As your President, I will match your courage with action, investment, and unwavering support.

“The threats of terrorism, banditry, and insurgency have persisted for too long. Nigerians are counting on us

some others for anti-party activities.

Speculations have been swirling around Otti's possible change of political party given the leadership crisis in his LP and also the fact that it has now become fashionable for opposition State governors to decamp.

But the Abia Governor, who was speaking on Arise TV breakfast programme, ‘The Morning Show,’ insisted that he has no compelling reason to now dump the party under which he came to power in 2023.

"Governor Otti is not decamping. And my party is not on a shaky ground. Everybody must not be in APC. This is democracy," he said.

The Abia Governor noted that remaining in opposition based on one's conviction has its own merits and could yield bold political dividends in future.

To buttress his point, he cited President Bola Tinubu, who consistently played opposition politics in the Alliance for Democracy, Action Congress of Nigeria and finally the APC that eventually brought him to the presidency.

However, he acknowledged that nothing was static in politics,, having changed party platform a number of times as he had moved from the PDP

losses declined to N680.62 billion in the year under review compared to N1.16 trillion in 2023.

The statement of accounts of the Group comprises the CBN and its subsidiaries.

Also, yesterday, Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, turned down a request to stop the CBN from using the e-naira trade mark for the growth of the country's economy.

According to the financial statements, the apex bank is wholly owned by the federal government, and remains a Government Business Entity (GBE).

Essentially, the central bank holds 89.52 percent of the share capital of Nigerian Security Printing and Minting (NSPM) Plc, its subsidiary while Bureau of Public Enterprise and DE LA RUE of UK have 9.61 per cent and 0.87 per cent shares, respectively.

The CBN also holds controlling

and on you to end this menace and reclaim every inch of our territory.

“To those who seek to destabilise our nation, be they domestic collaborators or foreign agents hear this: Nigeria will not bow. Not to fear. Not to terror. Not to treachery. You, the Nigerian military, are the spearhead of this fight.”

He added that: “I am fully aware of the challenges you face. We are taking bold steps to equip you with advanced equipment, superior intelligence, and robust logistical support not only to defend this nation but to dominate and defeat every adversary.”

Tinubu advised Governors in the country to remain focused on delivering tangible results that improve the lives of their people, urging them to disregard armchair critics who merely seek to distract from the work at hand.

According to him: "Let the people be at the heart of your programmes. Your hard work and concrete achievements will answer any criticism. Ignore distractions—your results will speak

to APGA, APC and then LP under which he became Abia Governor.

While saying that the condition today does not necessitate dumping LP "by blackmail", Otti pointed out that "things can change tomorrow (and) he would be "whenever God wants me to be."

He reiterated that he has no problems with Julius Abure, the former LP National Chairman having, "worked very well with him and he's still my friend."

According to him, the misunderstanding he had with Abure was that he told him "the truth", which was that his tenure had elapsed and he no longer had the legitimacy to remain as LP National Chairman.

"Today, we have fought and retrieved Labour Party," Otti enthused, adding that the party that brought him to power remains strong with a functional National Working Committee.

Otti refused to be drawn to disclose how he has been funding his projects without borrowing, as he continues to claim, and how much the Abia Airport project would cost.

Despite the alleged pillage of the state resources by his predecessor, including N10 billion spent on

interest of 53.71 per cent (equivalent to 89.52 per cent of a 60 per cent ownership) in Tawada Limited, an indirect subsidiary of the bank.

Furthermore, the apex bank holds 100 per cent of the share capital in Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk-Sharing System for Agricultural Lending Pic (NIRSAL), and 99.99 per cent of share capital in Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry Stabilization Strategy Limited (NESI).

The central bank also owns 70 per cent share capital in Infrastructure Corporation of Nigeria Limited (InfraCorp).

Thus, the Group presented a summary of its consolidated and separate statement of financial position broadly in order of liquidity. Nonetheless, the Group's total liabilities and equity increased to N117.60 trillion in 2024 from N87.87 trillion in 2023.

Net Unrealised Foreign Exchange

for you".

"We have decided on peace and stability. I know you face terrorism and banditry attacks in the state, but you have shown determination and courage to move Katsina State forward. You will not walk alone. The federal government will be with you," the President told Governor Radda.

Tinubu noted that hunger and poverty remain the biggest threats to peace in the country.

He said: "The economy is sailing in the right trajectory. Today, we are seeing an effort to banish hunger and a commitment to food security and the empowerment of our people. Small and large-scale farming will be encouraged. Once we liberate ourselves from hunger, we will appreciate peace and harmony.

Tinubu challenged governors to pay more attention to agriculture.

"You have introduced a great, progressive movement in Katsina State by just tilling the land and

phanthom airport, Otti said that he would not probe Ikpeazu as it would be a waste of my time" and also make his government to lose focus.

On how he emerged Governor of Abia State after several failed attempts, he credited it to God and the uprightness of Prof. Nnenna Oti, the Vice Chancellor of Federal University of Technology, Owerri whom he insisted he had never met before the election.

According to him, “A lot of times we don't celebrate people, and I've had time to say good things about her.

“I didn't know her from Adam, never met her. And when she was selected, that was just like 48, 72 hours before the election. So I was a bit scared, because when she was appointed Vice Chancellor of Federal University of Technology, Owerri, I tried to reach out to her because she bears the same surname.

“She's Oti, Prof. Nnennaya Oti. And I guess that was 2021. So I got her number, tried to call her. She didn't respond. I sent a text message congratulating her. She also didn't respond. So I just said, okay. I left her. And two years later, she was now going to be the returning officer.

“But then, most importantly, I left

revaluation gains also increased by 225 per cent year on year to N11.28 trillion.

Loans and receivables stood at N10.96 trillion compared to N15.09 trillion in 2023.

The apex bank's quota in the International Monetary Fund (IMF) increased to N4.91 trillion in 2024 compared to N2.96 trillion in 2023.

The CBN quota determines its financial contribution, voting power, and access to IMF financing.

Group's total liabilities stood at N116.58 trillion compared to N85.86 trillion in 2023.

CBN's liabilities to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) grew to N5.06 trillion, from N2.52 trillion while the former's current tax liabilities increased to N9.25 billion compared to N6.81 billion in 2023.

Among other things, banknotes and coins in circulation rose to N5.44 trillion compared to N3.65 trillion, while total

putting the land to use. Farming will be our source of prosperity and growth.

"We should remove ourselves from reliance on oil and commit to agriculture. It will bring prosperity. I commend you for the mechanisation programme. It is a great investment, and I hope others can learn from it. The construction of the 24-km road speaks volumes about the effectiveness of the government. I say thank you," the President said.

Speaking further, Tinubu said the federal government would also complete the 284-kilometer Kano-Jigawa-Katsina-Maradi rail line in 2026, to promote international trade and boost commerce along the trade corridor.

He said the project, when completed, would ease the transportation difficulties facing Nigerians within the and reduce the pressure on the nation’s roads.

He added that the federal

everything in the hands of God. And then the election came. If you recall, I've been in this process since 2015. And a particular local government was always used to falsify the results of the election. And that's Obingwa. Again, in 2019, it happened.

“So 2023, the election, it was clear that I was going to win the election again. And the results kept trickling in from the different local governments. The tally was increasing.

“The difference was increasing. And what they did at that time was just to wait. So at some point, when they thought enough local governments had come in, and they falsified the results, moved it to 80,000, from there to 90,000, it ended at 108,000.

“But then this woman rejected those falsified results and said she was going to stick to the results that came from the polling units. And the rest is now history. So we cannot tell the story of the changes that have happened in Abia State, the new Abia, as we call it, without a reference to Professor Nnennaya Oti.

“We thank God for her. So I strongly believe that the hand of God was in the whole process. It was God who brought her. So my tribute to her, thank you, and tribute

deposits climbed to N52.38 trillion compared to N38.18 trillion in 2023t.

In addition, the value of CBN's Instruments issued increased to N24.27 trillion compared to N17.40 trillion in the preceding financial period.

Court Refuses to Stop CBN from E-naira Trademark Usage

Meanwhile, Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, yesterday, turned down a request to stop the CBN from using the e-naira trade mark for the growth of the country's economy.

Justice Omotosho refused the application by a private company, E-naira payment Solutions Limited in the interest of the country.

E-naira payment Solutions Limited had in the suit against the CBN, sought an order of interim injunction restraining the apex bank from using

government would also complete phase II of the Kano-Katsina road, adding that all the previous technical and bureautic challenges have been resolved.

Tinubu further stated that his administration has awarded the contract for the construction of Zaria-HunkuyiMalumfashi-Dayi-Gidan Mutum Daya road and total rehabilitation of the Marabar Kankara-Dutsinma-Katsina road.

He said the federal government would complete all the awarded roads and the railway contracts in Katsina State to enhance interstate connectivity and boost economic activities in the state.

He stressed that the federal government was recapitalising the Bank of Agriculture (BOA) to avail farmers and agri-preneurs with capital to boost their productivity, and promote employment and food security.

In his remarks, Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda,

to her courage.”

He said he was "not sure yet" how much his government would spend on the joint project with the federal government and equally "not sure yet" the amount FG would commit to the airport project.

Otti challenged the opposition "to come with the facts" if they think he has borrowed money from anywhere to fund projects since the inception of his administration.

He said his predecessor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu "left absolutely nothing" in the state coffers but instead left a debt burden of N192 billion, including unpaid salaries and pensions. Otti said he has reduced the huge debt profile to N66 billion by end of 2024.

On why he was not staying in the government house, he said, “So what happened was that my predecessor commissioned an uncompleted building on the 28th of May. I would also like you to see it. My people will take you to it.

“And it is supposed to be a new government house. So what did he do? He completed the ground floor, finished it very well, and put in Italian furniture. I don't like to talk about it, but since you asked. He put Italian furniture in the place, painted it, and

E-naira trademark on the ground of lack of ownership.

It claimed that the disputed E-naira trade mark was its sole property based on the acceptance of its application for registration by the Trademark Registry of Nigeria.

Plaintiff claimed that its ownership of the trademark was being threatened by the CBN'S bid to hijack the mark, adding that it would suffer irredeemable damages if the apex bank is allowed to assume ownership of the mark.

In a motion on notice marked FHC/ABJ /CS/2021, the plaintiff asked the court to stop CBN from communicating with the United States of America Patent and Trademark on the issue of the disputed trademark until the dispute is fully resolved. It also pleaded with the court to stop USA from processing the application of the CBN for formal registration of E-naira trade mark

explained that the Agric Mechanisation Centre inaugurated by the President in the State, was part of a series of reforms by his government to reposition the sector.

He explained that so far the center has assembled 400 tractors and hundreds of harvesters, harrowers, planters and other farming implements.

On the state government's Urban Renewal Project, the governor pointed out that so far, 160 km of roads have been constructed across major towns in the state to ease vehicular movement and improve commercial activities.

He highlighted other components of the Urban Renewal Project to include solar power generation in Ministries, Departments and Agencies as well as streetlighting and water generation and distribution.

He said the state government's investment in the solar power alternative would reduce its recurrent expenditure by 50 percent.

commissioned it. Okay. So after the inauguration, I went there.

“When I looked at the ground floor, I was very happy. But as I went to the first and second floors, they were not even plastered. No cemetery fittings, nothing.

“Of course, we tried to bring in KPMG at some point, and I'm sure you must have seen that, where they looked at one of the accounts, and they found that some N10 billion was drawn for a non-existent airport.

“So that's the only one that we are saying, bring back our money or give us the airport. It's an audio airport. We've just flagged off the construction of the Abia airport. Probing is a waste of my time.” On debts he inherited from his predecessor, he said, “I just saw the numbers from DMO. In 2023, they said we inherited a debt profile of N138 billion. But at the end of last year, we reduced it to N66 billion. We've not borrowed one dime.

“Let me tell you. But the opposition keeps saying, you know, you are borrowing. Who did I borrow from? Did I borrow from them? If I borrowed from a bank, it would be clear. DMO would tell you."

for the use of CBN and the federal government of Nigeria.

But the CBN in its defense pleaded with the court to reject the request on the ground that E-naira trademark is a National Asset that can only be owned and used by the federal government of Nigeria only and itself.

The apex bank claimed that the letter of acceptance of registration issued to the plaintiff in error by the Trademark Registry of Nigeria had since been voided and withdrawn through a letter dated November 15, 2021.

CBN, while describing the E-naira trademark as a National Intellectual Property informed the court of its possession of registration certificate from the Trademark Registry of Nigeria in line with section 22 of the Trademark Act and on the verge of getting it registered by the United States of America Patent and Trade Mark registry.

Report and Financial Statements for the Period Ended 31 March 2025.

STrATeGIC ALLIANCe TO SANITISe FX MArKeT…

STIMULATING PRIVATE INVESTMENT...

L-R: Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy of Nigeria, Wale Edun; Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC),

of Nigeria

Cardoso, in a Strategic Alliance to Stimulate the forex market in Abuja…yesterday

and the

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, AVCA, Abi Mustapha Maduakor; Co-founder/CEO of Verod Capital and AVCA Board Chair, Mr. Danladi Michael Verheijen; President and Chief Executive, Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Minister, Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; Partner, Alterra Capital Partners, Genevieve Sangudi; and Managing Director/ CEO, Alitheia Capital, Tokunboh Ishmael, at the 21st Annual AVCA Conference and VC Summit in Lagos ...yesterday

CNG: FG Announces 40% Transport Fare Cut, Expands Rollout

Edo APC, State Govt Trade Words over N9bn Fresh Loan Approval

in Benin City

The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI) in collaboration with the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), yesterday announced a 40 per cent reduction in transportation fares for routes serviced by Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles in Abuja.

Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), yesterday, urged Governor Godwin Obaseki to stop securing loans, noting that the N9 billion loan recently approved by the House of Assembly was needless and will plunge the state into financial distress.

Speaking at a field briefing held at the Area 1 Motor Park, Abuja, the PCNGI Programme Director, Michael Oluagbemi, said the fare reduction was a result of President Bola Tinubu’s directive to drive down transportation costs and improve energy efficiency nationwide.

But in a swift reaction, the Edo State Government said it was perplexed to learn of what it termed “laughable and incredibly ridiculous tantrums attributed to the new acting chairman of the Edo State chapter of APC, Jarret Tenebe where he made baseless and spurious allegations on the fiscal management of our dear state by the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led government.”

Addressing a press conference yesterday, Tenebe had said the state was already suffering under a debt profile of N135 billion and $35.6 billion.

He said, "While it is a monumental disaster that Edo State patrimony

Represented by the Regional Coordinator for CNG Expansion (North), Mr. David Idako, Oluwagbemi stated that the office has worked with the NURTW to convert a significant number of commercial vehicles to CNG and in return agreed to reduce transport fares for Nigerians.

To ensure compliance, Oluwagbemi noted that a dedicated

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

The Director General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, has announced plans to launch a 37,000 Citizens’ Brigade in primary schools across the country.

has been swindled by Obaseki-led administration with an unassailable, humongous debt profile of N135 billion and $35.6 billion, the governor is unyielding and unstoppable in his characteristic design to leave Edo State in ruin, by asking for a facility of N17.5 billion few days ago, which was said to be N9 billion."

captured.

taskforce comprising NURTW officials and PCNGI personnel had been deployed to monitor implementation, with PCNGI stickers and visible price tags to identify compliant vehicles easily. Also, he announced that over 50 per cent of vehicles at Area 1 had already been converted, with plans to extend conversions to Area 3 and other parks across Abuja and the country, highlighting that enforcement will begin immediately. "If they don't comply, such a driver will be reported to the task force and be disciplined. So this is what we have put in place to check. Passengers also have the ability to report non-compliance," he explained.

Tenebe, said "It is important to state, that it is now in public and political space that the fiscal budget of Edo State was passed few weeks ago before the Edo State House of Assembly proceeded on leave without the commencement of the execution of the budget by the executive.

It is most disheartening that the Edo State Government now is requesting for a facility of N17.5 billion with no corollary of project attached there to the said facility and also that the facility is not contained as loan to be taken in the 2024 fiscal budget just recently passed. A cursory perusal of the entire budget does not reveal where the project for the facility is ever

Speaking at the event, the NURTW Secretary, Garki Branch, Mr. Ibrahim Jibril, affirmed the union’s full support for the fare cut. He praised the president for his efforts in making life easy for the Nigerian citizens.

He said, "Mr. President has tried his best to see how he can reduce the sufferings of Nigerians in order to reduce the price of

SGF Exhorts Religious Leaders on National Unity, Peaceful Coexistence

among the youthful population. He said the government is worried that about 72 per cent of the nation’s youthful population have become foreigners through the influence of cartoons and movies which are foreign in contents, values and cultures.

He made the disclosure while speaking with journalists in Ibadan during a working visit to Oyo State.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has made a passionate appeal to religious leaders to support the federal government in the push to strengthen national security and unity.

ensures inclusive governance. His administration is making notable progress in education, infrastructure, the economy, and security,” Akume stated.

transportation. And when this programme was launched, NURTW and other sister associations were all invited and were all given the opportunity.

“Drivers are benefiting too. CNG costs about N4,500 compared to

He said 1,000 Citizens’ Brigade would be set up in each of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to promote national values as of old, stating that the essence of the Brigade was to revive and rebuild the national values and create positive models

He made the appeal in Abuja when he received a delegation of clergy men under the auspices of the Northern Pentecostal and Charismatic Bishops Communion of Nigeria, led by its Chairman, Archbishop JohnPraise Daniel.

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

He stressed the sacred role of religious leaders in society, highlighting their responsibility to support government efforts toward interfaith harmony and peaceful coexistence.

Akume described President Bola Tinubu as a leader committed to inclusivity and national cohesion, noting his administration’s balanced appointments reflecting Nigeria’s diversity.

The Oyo State Government, yesterday, suspended Oba Gbolagade Muritala Babalola, as the Onido of Ido in Ido Local Government Area of the state. The government, in a letter dated 2nd of February,

“President Tinubu is a true patriot who embraces unity and

Issa-Onilu said as a way out of the malaise, NOA would soon launch a Mobile App containing indigenous cartoons through which local contents, national values and culture would be promoted. According to him, "These various policies are geared towards changing the narratives and the wrong impression that the outside world is having about the country.

He also underscored the security improvements since the President assumed office and reiterated the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen security measures to combat insurgency and communal violence.

In his remarks, Archbishop Daniel expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu for establishing the Federal University of Applied Science in Kachia, Southern Kaduna.

indicated that

He also commended the government’s commitment to economic development and its efforts to improve security, which have boosted agricultural productivity and contributed to a reduction in food prices.

The visit concluded with prayers for the continued success of President Tinubu’s administration and the nation’s progress.

on 1st of February, 2024. The letter read in part, "I wish to inform you that His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State of Nigeria, in exercise of the powers conferred on him by Sub-section 1&2 of Section 26 of the Chiefs Law, Cap. 28 Vol I, Laws of Oyo State of Nigeria 2000 and by virtue of all other enabling powers in

"Information at the behest of the members of the Edo State House of Assembly is to the effect that they were recalled from their holiday or leave by the Speaker on the request of the state governor for the immediate approval of the said facility which according to them is said to be N9 billion but as event unfolded, after the mammoth request by the opposition in the House as to the rationale for a facility as

N20,000 for petrol. So even after the 40 per cent fare cut, they still save significantly. I can confidently tell you that we've converted almost 70 per cent of the vehicles in Area 1, with more to follow," he explained.

Also speaking, the PCNGI’s

stupendous as N9 billion for fathom projects which only existed in the imagination of the governor, it was discovered that the facility was not even N9 billion but a figure wrapped in secrecy as much as N17.5 billion to which the opposition in the house rejected and or refused to be part of the approval.

Seriki Adinoyi in Jos

The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has launched the National Livestock Transformation Programme (NLTP) at the Grazing Reserve in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State.

Commercial Coordinator, Mr. Tosin Coker, acknowledged that some drivers raised concerns over CNG availability at the filling stations, but assured the public that infrastructure expansion was underway.

the state Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki across all sectors of the state over the past seven years.”

“We now have 10 operational CNG filling stations in Abuja, with more being commissioned this month. The government is working hand-in-hand with private investors to ramp up availability,” Coker stated.

“In his infertile rambling, Tenebe made wild and completely off-themark comments suggesting that Edo State is owing $35 billion. Even if that was what was written for him, he should have known that the figure is wrong and can't be true.

FG Launches National Livestock Programme in Plateau

leave this place for greener pastures.

But in its reaction, the Edo State Government stated that the Edo APC was “obviously pained by the achievements of

“Tenebe has been on a frenzy looking for lies to tell since he assumed office as Acting Chairman. Rather than focus on reawakening his completely comatose party, which is unable to provide constructive criticisms expected of a viable opposition, he has resorted to spreading misinformation in a desperate attempt to curry cheap popularity.

"In reality, our debt stock is not a secret and in fact, we are ‘under borrowed’. Emperor Tenebe would have known this if he understood the economics of governance, fiscal responsibility and debt-to-GDP ratio.

Minister of Livestock Development, Mr. Idi Maiha launched the programme during a visit to the grazing reserve on Thursday.

lid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has described the United States as Nigeria’s longstanding ally and strategic partner for the nation’s mining sector development.

“We will also construct and equip veterinary clinics for the health of the animals and primary healthcare clinics for the families of the herders. It is going to be completely solarised; we will rely on renewable energy so as to also fight issues of climate change,” he said.

be used in generating electricity and used by farmers as organic fertiliser.”

He promised that the government will also construct road networks within the grazing reserve as part of the programme.

Mining Development: Nigeria, US Explore Areas of Strategic Partnership

The minister explained that his visit to the state was also to meet with critical stakeholders towards ensuring the smooth commencement of the programme, as it will boost the economy of the state, insisting that it will attract other businesses to the state.

Speaking while receiving

Maiha said that the initiative was part of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the federal government, aimed at creating a value chain in the livestock industry.

He added that the programme will not only tackle the rising security challenges in the area, but would create job opportunities for the state.

Charge d'Affairs, US Embassy, David Greene, in his office on Thursday, Alake lauded the United States’ commitment to fostering cooperation with Nigeria in diverse sectors of the economy, stating that it underscores the significance of the smooth bilateral relations between both countries.

Also speaking, Commissioner for Livestock Development, Veterinary Services and Fisheries in Plateau, Dr. Sunday Akpa, said that the initiative will complement the state government’s efforts toward boosting the livestock industry in the state.

The livestock value chain is enormous. If properly harnessed, we could build a billion-dollar livestock economy right here in Plateau State.” The governor further emphasised the initiative’s potential to significantly reduce insecurity, especially the persistent violent attacks that have plagued many communities.

He said that the state government will provide necessary support towards the success of the programme.

also want to be part of the move to reduce global emissions and put our mining sector on the global map. We have critical minerals that are in commercial demand globally,"Alake said.

He said, “Yesterday, I met with the Governor, the Gbong Gwom Jos, the Emir of Wase and other critical stakeholders to ensure the smooth commencement of this programme.

“We are here in Wase grazing reserve to launch the pilot scheme of the livestock transformation programme of the federal government and to demonstrate that this is possible under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.

“We are establishing, this year, 37,000 Citizens’ Brigade in Primary School. 1,000 in each state, including FCT, Abuja. These Citizens’ Brigade are going to be like Boys’ Scout and Girls’ Guild of the olden days.

“Across the world, Nigerians are known to be the smartest people on earth. This is a positive development but some people mischievously tend to portray us in negative light. But this is not who we are as a people.

“We will construct mass housing for the herders and their families and earth dams for dry season irrigation of pasture so that once the animals are here, there will be no reason to

Segun James

“To change the negative narratives, we are setting up the Citizens’ Brigade to produce young Nigerians and create positive models to rebuild the national values."

As part of efforts to protect its cyber communication system, Lagos State Government has established a Cyber Security Operation Centre which has successfully mitigated two data exfoliation attempts.

“This grazing reserve is about 100 hectares of land and will house more than 20,000 cattle.

“With this huge number of cattle, it will lead to production of milk in large quantities and by doing so will make milk processing companies come here and set up their outlets.

“I thank you for your visit. I met the US Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources, Geoffrey Pyatt, on the sidelines of the Mines and Money conference in London past year, and we had a fruitful engagement. I did analyse all our issues, and fundamentally, we just want to diversify our economy from oil. Not just for our own economic survival but also to be in tune with global trends for reduction in global warming. We

“Also, red meat processing factories will come here and set up cold rooms; the solid waste from animals will also

The minister welcomed partnership with the US on investments in the mining value chain, expanding access to technology in extracting and processing minerals and securing mining areas.

Welcoming the federal delegation at the Government House, Governor Caleb Mutfwang, commended President Tinubu’s foresight in establishing the Ministry of Livestock Development, noting that the initiative addresses long-standing sectorial challenges and opens new avenues for economic growth.

Throwing light on reforms embarked upon by the federal government, the minister highlighted revised Community Development Agreement (CDA) guidelines geared towards reducing friction in host communities; on-going plans for new security architecture to secure natural resources; efforts to generate big geo-data; the

He said, “This is a visionary step whose time has come. At the inception of the Ministry, some had their doubts. But today, what has been unveiled shows a clear and strategic roadmap, not only for boosting our GDP but also for job creation and entrepreneurship.

formalisation of artisanal miners into cooperatives amongst others.

“If we can properly address issues around pastoral livestock practices, we will eliminate a major root cause of insecurity. The friction between farmers and herders will no longer exist. This initiative provides a path toward the peace we have long yearned for,” he stated.

Mutfwang also highlighted ongoing state-level interventions aimed at modernising livestock infrastructure, including the planned re-modelling of the Jos abattoir to handle up to 500 cattle daily. He reiterated the state’s readiness to align with the federal government’s livestock development vision.

"The mining sector provides a veritable avenue for increased trade between Nigeria and the United States, especially in the area of value addition, which implies processing of extracted minerals and setting up factories here. We would also require financing from multilateral institutions for our local operators. We are providing incentives for investments like tax waivers for mining equipment, policy of full repatriation of profits to home countries amongst others," Alake emphasised.

In his remarks, the US Ambassador commended the renewed interest of Nigeria in solid minerals, stressing that the sector has huge potentials to rival the contribution of oil to the nation's economy.

“This is a day of joy and a divine moment for Plateau State. Our institutions, researchers, and citizens are fully prepared to collaborate in driving Nigeria’s livestock transformation,” the governor assured.

Lagos Establishes Cyber Security Operation Centre

Alex enumah in Abuja

government is rolling out 6,000km fibre optic ducts which has led to an increase in the number of internet subscribers to one million between 2024 and 2025.

bordering on terrorism and murder.

will require physical infrastructure connections to improve the digital connectivity of the state.

The move followed thousands of malicious attacks monthly by persons intent on hacking the system.

This was disclosed by the State Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Olatunbosun Alake, at the ongoing ministerial press briefing to mark the second year in office of the 2nd term of the State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu at Alausa, Ikeja.

This was even as the state

that regard, has approved your suspension as the Onido of Ido in the area of authority of Ido Local Government Area of Oyo State." It directed Oba Babalola to hand over all government properties in his possession to the Chairman of Ido local government. In the meantime, the state government has vowed to hit hard at anyone, no matter how highly placed, who contravenes the law.

Justice Bolaji Olajuwon of a Federal High Court in Abuja, yesterday, dismissed the application by two Rivers State indigenes challenging the jurisdiction of the court to try them over alleged complicity in the burning of the Rivers State House of Assembly complex in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Alake disclosed that the state is the foremost data-compliant in the federation with periodic assessment and has employed 109 data protection officers to ensure compliance and protection.

While explaining the mandate of the ministry, the commissioner listed among others science and policy promotion, infrastructure management, science and ICT Advisory, IT-Service management, smart projects, e-governance.

Chime Eguma Ezebalike and Prince Lukman Oladele, were among five persons charged with terrorism and murder. The others are Kenneth Goodluck Kpasa, Osiga Donald and Ochueja Thankgod.

They were last week arraigned on a seven-count criminal charge

He said, "Building a digitised city

"The MetroFibre project seeks to deliver 6000km of optic fibre and optic fibre ducts for increase in digital penetration.

He therefore noted, "Due to efforts in fibre roll out and connectivity, the number of internet subscribers increased to approximately one million between 2024 and 2025."

Although, they pleaded not guilty to all the charges, the judge however, ordered that they be remanded at the Kuje Correctional Center, pending the hearing of their bail application fixed for February 2, as well as the motion of the 1st and 2nd defendants challenging the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the suit against them.

In building a digitised 24/7 city, Alake explained there has been the introduction of Intelligent Video Surveillance systems installed in areas such as Alapere, Bank Anthony Way areas of the state.

to operate in a state and secure environment thereby creating a safer and more conducive environment for businesses which would lead to more jobs and increasing IGR of the state. Also speaking on Artificial Intelligence, Alake explained “AI is now astronomic and we know the danger in it. So we want to ensure that when people build the AI, it is safe and takes our diversity into consideration and also makes sure it is fair.”

He said it would allow companies

Ezebalike and Oladele had argued that by the provisions of the Terrorism Act, it is only the Attorney General of the Federation that can file any charge of terrorism against them. Their lawyer, Mr. Lukman

Fagbemi, SAN, submitted that the charge having been filed by the Inspector General of Police, was incompetent and asked the court to strike out counts 1,3,4,5,6, and 7 of the charge or strike strike out the entire suit for been incompetent. Responding, Police lawyer, Mr. Simon Lough, SAN, urged the court to dismiss the application for lacking in merit. According to Lough, besides Sections 4 and 66 of the Police Acts that empower them to bring the charge against the defendants, Section 5 and 99 of the Terrorism Act, shows that the police have powers to also initiate terrorism charges against the defendant.

He added, "We will be giving guidelines for those who build. This is not a strait-jacket policy but self-assessment policy. We don't want to stem innovations, so we will not enforce the guidelines."

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Adibe emenyonu

Ola Olukoyede

Governor, Central Bank

(CBN), Olayemi

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Happy Birthday Dear Brother to a

join many Nigerians in extending my heartfelt congratulations to an icon, a

patriot, and a true pillar of our nation, Chief Pius Olu Akinyelure, as he celebrated his birthday on May 2nd, 2025.

Sir, your life has been marked by unwavering service, profound sacrifice, and a steadfast commitment to the progress of our country and the upliftment of its people.

As an elder statesman and visionary leader, your enduring legacy of integrity, wisdom, and selfless leadership continues to inspire generations.

Yo u a r e a d e a r f r i e n d t o m y h e a r t k i n

detribalised.

You have always looked beyond religion or ethnicity, embracing all with fairness and compassion.

Your encouragement and wise counsel have had a lasting impact on my life, shaping me in ways I will forever cherish.

At the forefront of nation-building, you have played a pivotal role in shaping policies and institutions that have driven development and strengthened our democracy

Your name is rightfully etched in the annals of our nation’s history as one of those rare individuals who lead not for personal gain, but for the greater good.

As you mark another year of grace and purpose, may the Almighty bless you abundantly with good health, peace of mind, and the joy of witnessing the flourishing of the seeds you have sown.

Happy birthday, sir, and thank you for a life so nobly dedicated to the service of our people and our nation.

Chief PIUS OLU AKINYELURE

Abdullahi Musa Bello

Gbemi Gbemi 0 0 artyCheersHe 6 6 to

Dear Gbemisola,

Our entire family celebrate you today, as always, because you represent the best of our most cherished family values.

A great sister, dependable aunty, caring mother, intelligent administrator, eloquent speaker, kind person, generous giver, and believer in the cause of Allah.

At 60, we pray that you enjoy many more years in good health and in the service of Allah and our community.

Happy Birthday and Many Happy Returns.

Signed:

Dr. Abubakar

Bukola Saraki, CON

Former Senate President and Waziri of Ilorin FOR THE FAMILY

COURTESY VISIT TO SWEDISH EMBASSY...

Swedish

Stop Labelling Tinubu’s Administration

Yoruba Government, Afenifere Warns

Afenifere, a pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, has warned those labelling the present administration of President Bola Tinubu as Yoruba government to stop such profiling, stating that it was tantamount to playing Russian roulette the country’s destiny.

Afenifere in a statement signed yesterday, by its National Organising Secretary, Abagun Kole Omololu, stated: “We have taken due note of the recent expose by Dr. Sandra Duru, detailing her conversation with the suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, particularly her shocking admission of a clandestine plot to sabotage the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which the conspirators have stereotyped as a “Yoruba government,” and

thereby stir the embers of division to deny him a second term. This is no light accusation. It is a revelation that demands reflection from patriots and repudiation from all who still hold Nigeria dear.”

The group added that: “Let it be said, plainly and without ambiguity, that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government is not a Yoruba government. It is a Nigerian government. He did not ascend to the presidency by tribal inheritance but by democratic choice — the result of votes cast in faith by Nigerians of every tongue, creed, and religion.

“To label this administration as “Yoruba” and weaponise that label as grounds for sabotage is not only dishonest, but a vile act of tribal opportunism and sedition. We reject it utterly.

“We remind the nation: When

Police Dismantle Transnational Kidnapping Syndicate, Apprehend Kingpin, Rescue Two Ghanaians

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Nigeria Police Force said that operatives of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) have successfully rescued two kidnapped Ghanaian nationals and apprehended a key kidnapping syndicate operating across international borders.

A statement by the Force Spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said the arrest and rescue of the kidnapped victims followed a report filed with the National Central Bureau (NCB) Abuja on 27 April 2025, regarding the kidnapping of Anastasia Arthur, also known as Baidoo, a 48-year-old Ghanaian national.

The Nigeria Police Force, through its Intelligence Response Team (IRT), he said, successfully rescued the two kidnapped Ghanaian nationals and apprehended a key kidnapping syndicate operating across international borders.

According to him, "Initial investigations revealed that Ms Baidoo's abduction stemmed from a sophisticated Facebook love scam. Advanced technical analysis provided a lead to a key location connected to the perpetrators, and operatives were deployed for immediate action. Working in close collaboration with the Ghanaian Police Service, the IRT operatives identified a criminal syndicate with members operating in both Ghana and Nigeria.

"Key breakthroughs in the investigation included the arrest of Emeka Christian, a 27-year-old Nigerian national residing in Bolgatanga, Upper East Ghana, who

confessed to receiving GH¢10,000 as ransom money for the victim through his Ghanaian mobile account. He further admitted to transferring the Naira equivalent to a Nigerian bank account belonging to Peter Okoye."

Adejobi said that on May 1, 2025, at approximately 1:22 p.m., IRT operatives successfully tracked Peter Okoye, the prime suspect, to Port Harcourt, Rivers State, adding that he was apprehended along with members of his syndicate: Paulinus Chidokwe, 35, and Chinonso Okafor, 35.

He stressed that the two Ghanaian women, Ms Anastasia Arthur, also known as Baidoo, and Amaseerwaa Konadu, who were victims of these abductors, were rescued in the process.

The victims, he said, have been taken to hospital for proper treatment, having been held under dehumanising circumstances, while the suspects are currently undergoing investigation, and upon conclusion, those involved will face the full wrath of the law.

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, commended the officers for their swift and coordinated operation, which led to the successful rescue of these foreign nationals.

This achievement, the IGP said, underscores the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with its international partners, to combat transnational crime and ensure the safety and security of all individuals within and beyond our borders.

The Nigeria Police Force urges the public to be wary of online romance scams and report any suspicious activity to the nearest law enforcement agency.

President Muhammadu Buhari held office for eight years, no one branded his leadership as a “Fulani government.” No tribal coalition was formed to deny him a second term on the grounds of ethnicity. He was allowed to serve out his mandate in full — and rightly so. The same principle of equity and continuity must apply now. Let no one demand justice only when it suits them, but deny it when it is owed to others.”

The group adduced that: “President Tinubu shall serve his full term of

eight years, by the will of the good people of this country and under the watch of the Constitution. To suggest otherwise is to play Russian roulette with our national destiny.”

Afenifere commended Duru for her exposé, adding, however, “We condemn in the strongest terms the campaign of calumny and false allegations against the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio — a man whose only crime, it appears, is that he dares to cooperate and collaborate with the President in the

spirit of statesmanship and progress.

“We reject the weaponisation of false allegations as political tools — especially when such weapons are aimed at innocent men, families and private lives. Politics has its place, but it must never trespass the boundaries of human decency. To smear a man’s name, fabricate charges, and unleash innuendo on his children, his home, and his honour — that is not politics.

That is malice in its rawest form.”

The group further said:

“We strongly decry the

internationalisation of fabricated domestic issues by those who authored the falsehood in the first place. This is akin to setting fire to your own seat in a cinema and running out crying “Fire! Fire!” — not out of alarm, but out of selfish ambition. It is selfishness that seeks to burn down the image of the nation to satisfy the ego of one person who believes that except she has her way, the country should not have peace.”

FG, Gavi, UNICEF Launch $200m Immunisation Grant

Target vaccination of 1.8 million Children

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

As part of interventions to scale up immunisation efforts and end cases of zero dose vaccination Ong Nigerian children, the federal government, Gavi and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) yesterday launched a grant portfolio of $200 million meant to reach over 1.8 million zero vaccination dose children.

The grant known as the Gavi Health System Strengthening-3 (HSS 3) support was formally unveiled at a ceremony in Transcorp Hilton, Maitama in Abuja hosted by the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA).

In his speech, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate who was represented by the Executive Director of the NPHCDA, Dr. Muyi Aina, thanked Gavi for all its investment in the Nigerian health sector for several decades.

As part of its support, Pate said

that Gavi has also enabled the country to introduce new vaccines, including HPV, malaria and Mpox vaccines.

He said that the government and people of Nigeria will remain grateful to Gavi and will not take its partnership and collaboration for granted.

Pate assured that all Gavi and other donor investments in Nigeria will be complemented by domestic funds, and judiciously utilised as the government is committed to accountability across all levels of governance including for the health workers and other service providers.

According to the Minister, Gavi investment in Nigeria has saved millions of lives and enabled the country’s immunisation programme to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic.

"The mission of Gavi to save lives and protect people’s health by increasing equitable and sustainable use of vaccines aligns with the vision of the national HSSB, which is to

save lives, reduce both physical and financial pain and produce health for all Nigerians," Pate said.

Speaking at the Grant Launch, representative of Gavi and its Director of Health Systems and Immunisation Strengthening, Alex de Jonquieres, said Gavi’s mission is to ensure every child benefits from the lifesaving power of vaccines.

He said the grant was designed by the Government of Nigeria through an inclusive planning process across Federal Ministry of Health and National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) and other agencies at the federal and state levels and with support from World Health Organisation (WHO), UNICEF, many other partners and civil society and private sector organisations.

Jonquieres said, "Nigeria is home to the largest number of zero dose children, those who have not received a single dose of routine vaccines, in the world.

Low immunisation coverage results in repeated outbreaks of vaccine preventable diseases and deaths.

"To address this, we are today launching Gavi’s next health systems strengthening grant with another $191 million of funding over the next four years. This grant is one of the largest ever made by Gavi and is intended to help extend the reach of the health system to reach 1.8 million zero dose children and increase immunisation coverage to 84 per cent by 2028.

"In addition, we are also investing close to $100 million this year in a campaign to protect over 100 million children against Measles and Rubella, our largest ever such campaign.

"This strategy helps provide with the vaccines it needs with $1.1 billion worth of vaccines procured since 2018 – one third by the Government of Nigeria and two thirds by Gavi.

Eulogies as Pascal Dozie is Interred

Tony Icheku in Owerri

Foremost financial expert, pioneering entrepreneur, statesman and philanthropist, Mr. Pascal Gabriel Dozie, yesterday rode on a wave of eulogies to his final resting place - at his country home in Egbu, Owerri, capital of Imo State.

At the funeral mass held at Maria Catholic Church of the Assumption Cathedral, Owerri, the Parish Priest, Rev. Father Francis Ike, in his homily described the late entrepreneur as one dedicated to his faith.

“Pascal was very generous and passionate towards the needy. Pascal was so easy to get along with and was also friendly. He was very energetic and had a deep vision and passion to achieve great strides in life.

"Pascal was a friend to all and sundry. The turnout at his service of songs and his requiem mass this morning is testimony to that.

“Pascal lived a life of simplicity, generosity, and humility. He was always there for the less-privileged, and we pray that his good deeds will bring him heavenly rewards through Christ Our Lord. Pascal will be loved and remembered even in death, for the good he did and the many souls he touched. He was an icon, he lived an adorable life, and recorded landmarks in the various positions that he led. He will be remembered for the footprints he left on the sands of time,” the priest affirmed.

The cleric urged the congregation to embrace humility just like the deceased, saying that was why he

had a peaceful death.

“This life is a stage, and we are all here acting our part. We would all leave this stage. Pascal Dozie has played his part, and he has left the stage. You and I are on this stage now. This earth is not our home, but a marketplace. Heaven is our eternal home, therefore, we will go home one day,” he submitted.

Mr. Dozie, pioneer chairman of MTN Nigeria Plc who in his life time exemplified the quintessential servant-leader - unobtrusively thriving in a volatile, complex and ambiguous world - rode to his grave applauded by personalities who gathered to pay their last respects to the business icon who etched his marks on the lives he touched in his lifetime. Though he was not a politician, his funeral attracted

who is who in Nigeria's political, business, academics and sociocultural space.

Speaking during the service of songs organised for him, his Special Assistant during the early days of defunct Diamond Bank Plc, Professor Emeka Osuji said: "Mr. Pascal Gabriel Dozie's life exemplifies humility, leadership and kindness. He was a titan in the business world. A man of brilliance, never seeking the spotlight, but always illuminating the paths of many. He built men, women, not just institutions, his leadership was not about titles, but service." Prof. Osuji had closely interacted with PGD for over 35 years, and began serving as his Special Assistant when the defunct Diamond Bank Plc was founded.

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Stena Bulk, Erik Hanel; Swedish Ambassador to Nigeria, Annika Hahn-Englund; and Chief Executive Officer, Caverton Offshore Support Group, Mr. Olabode Makanjuola during a courtesy visit to the

Embassy in Abuja... recently

In Praise of President Buhari

Justice for Adijat Pererra and Family

TWhen President Muhammadu Buhari took over the reins of power on May 29, 2015, Nigeria was sadly a broken state in many respects. As a result of many other factors including bad governance and untold level of corruption, government could not live up to its financial obligations to citizens and service providers at both the federal and state levels.

he Advocacy for Alleged Witches urges the Lagos State government and the Commissioner of Police in Lagos to ensure that justice prevails in the case of Ms. Adijat Pererra whose boyfriend allegedly murdered for rituals in February. The statement is being issued because, according to family sources, there have been attempts by the police to cover up the case. The Advocacy for Alleged Witches is outraged by this development.

justice will not reflect positively on the Lagos State government, the Nigerian police, and efforts to combat abuses linked to ritual beliefs and attacks.

Indeed one of the first official assignments that President Buhari carried out was the approval of billions of Naira in bailout funds to enable state governors pay something as basic as workers’ salaries. Granting those bailout funds was a huge boost to national security because the pressure of arrears of unpaid monthly salaries building dangerously all over the country was a ticking bomb.

Ask the naysayers and they would readily remind you of how long it took President Buhari to appoint his ministers and how that contributed to collapse of the economy as if, without ministers, governance was frozen. But buying that narrative would amount to what a famous Nigerian writer, Chimamanda Adichie, termed “the danger of a single story”. Yet the whole story was that many of our citizens did not know how decrepit a state President Buhari inherited in 2015.

As noted in a petition to the Lagos Commissioner of Police, dated March 19, 2025, Adijat’s mother spoke with her for the last time on February 26, and on February 27, Adijat could not be reached. Later in the day, her mother was called to an apartment where the lifeless body of her daughter was lying in a pool of blood. Some clay pots, a calabash with blood, and other ritual items were also discovered in the room.

Meanwhile, the so-called boyfriend had disappeared and had remained at large.

It was therefore necessary for him to take stock against the background of the fact that the departing government did not, reportedly, cooperate full well with the incoming government in terms of leaving workable handover notes. Although President Goodluck Jonathan was gracious in defeat, many of his appointees were still sulking over what they saw as their personal losses and therefore pulled all the stops to make things difficult for the Buhari government.

Ms Pererra’s family reported the case to the Meiran Divisional Police Office. Unfortunately, the family of the suspect connived with some police officers to undermine the arrest, and investigation of the suspect. Pererra’s family sources told AfAW that the father of the suspect came to the police station and tried to get the police to abandon the investigation. The police tried to intimidate and compel the mother of Adijat to discontinue the case. They told her that after all the daughter was dead and nothing would come of the matter. This kind of treatment adds insult to injury and police officers who treated Adijat’s mother this way should be named, tried, and dismissed from the force.

The TSA policy, interestingly, was mooted by the PDP government but its penchant for imprudence and lack of accountability denied it the courage of implementing the policy. What the President literally did was to gather all the nation’s money into one box and locked it up with a big padlock and watched for any thief to come close.

This development made Adijat’s mother petition the CP. The matter was transferred to the state criminal investigation department at Panti, Yaba. Based on the information available to AfAW, the investigation is stalled. Adijat’s family sources said the father of the suspect is also working with the police in Panti to kill the case. He has continued to block efforts to arrest and investigate the suspect. This is a very shameful development and does not speak well of the Nigerian police. The police should swing into action and arrest and investigate the suspect. The police can do this if they will.

As a matter of urgency, the suspect should be arrested and made to answer for his crimes. He should be charged in court as soon as possible. The suspect needs to tell the world why he murdered Adijat and why; who were his accomplices. He should tell the public where he kept the ritual money or wealth he was supposed to earn. Many Nigerian youths are under the illusion that they can make money and become wealthy through ritual attacks and sacrifice. Incidentally, there is no evidence that ritual sacrifice of anything or anybody, including humans yields money or wealth.

IThe Next Papa Roma and Christianity

by the EFCC, President Buhari by his action has successfully brought back to the public consciousness the need to treat public funds with the highest level of transparency and accountability.

After keeping treasury looters on their toes and at bay through the EFCC, particularly, President Buhari moved to curb unnecessary spending habits of the nation on what economists call articles of ostentation. Part of the disclosures of the President’s stock taking was how the country frittered away billions in foreign currency by importing goods, which can be produced at home. One of such items was rice, a major staple among Nigerians. By banning rice importation into the country, the President on one hand had saved the nation billions in foreign currency annually.

Stop Ritual Attacks and Killings

f the Roman Catholic Church proceeds on a course of promoting multilateralism, then the future of the Church’s growth is bleak. The vibrancy of the Roman Catholic Church comes from its native evangelism and folksy social integration schemes where every human feels at home being Catholic. The Church has survived for two thousand years as the underpinner of Christendom.

TAnd, on the other hand, the President has boosted domestic production of rice and in the process had nudged the country into self sufficiency in food production. He also created millions of jobs for young people in the rice value chain.

There have been other cases of ritual attacks and murder of ladies by their boyfriends in Lagos and other parts of the Southwest. These ritual attacks continue because perpetrators are seldom brought to justice.

Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged Witches

What is most admirable about President Buhari and his government is its frugal management of scarce national resources to attain optimum goals. Recall that since President Buhari stepped in the saddle, oil revenue dropped abysmally as if to sabotage him knowing all the big promises he made to citizens during his campaigns. But with the little resources that trickle in, the President is achieving what governments that received oil windfalls could not dream of.

Even with the obvious and unpatriotic obscurantist behaviour of the PDP appointees and their supporters still in government hell-bent on making things difficult for Buhari, the President moved on with his methodical repair of a broken country. The first thing he did was to identify all possible sources of income to the nation and directed that all inflows be paid into one single account in line with the policy of Single Treasury Account (TSA).

THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

EDITOR OBINNA CHIMA

Today, the trains are up and running daily from Abuja to Kaduna. And from Lagos to Ibadan a brand new rail track was started and completed; citizens are already commuting daily to and fro these two major cities in the country seamlessly as they reap from the dividends of democracy. And with the way this government is going, before 2023 when the President would leave, the entire country would be linked by rail with all of its economic advantages.

Ainofenokhai Ojeifo, Abuja

DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU

MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

Who can blame the President for almost developing paranoia over the safeguard of the national treasury with revelations and reports of mind-boggling looting that took place in the 16 years of the PDP? With such disclosures of how billions meant for fighting insurgency in the Northeast ended up in the pockets of a few individuals while our gallant soldiers fought with bare hands and on empty stomach, President Buhari was duty bound to bring sanity and accountability back in national spending.

The police should not yield to pressures from the father of the suspect because denying Adijat and her family

Thus, under President Buhari, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which had remained comatose for years, was woken up to resume its duties. Apart from the trillions of Naira of looted

Folks who are repulsed by the strange doctrines of myriad of non-Christian faiths really hope to join world Catholicism. Christendom has great testimonies to show mankind that its paths and doctrines are the surefooted routes to solving human miseries. But the AntiChrist still perseveres and threatens the Church. You have to be Nigerian and only live in Nigeria for one week to experience the full wrath of this opposition: your faith becomes a veritable death sentence. Those who sentence you to perdition and wish you bad cheer do not have anything good to offer mankind as alternative. The Church fought Crusades to push back against the Anti-Christ, popularising an expression like “heathen-unbeliever” back then. Today, honest Churchpeople have been reverse- labelled “heathen-unbelievers” with concomitant killing of these folks to wit. Thus, it becomes discomfiting if the head of the Roman Catholic Church, the Papa Roma, touts multiculturalism instead of full embrace of the Church. Such message diminishes honest Churchpeople’s commitments to the Church. The Church at Rome must help push back against the Anti-Christ.

The Church has evolved programmes over the centuries to defeat poverty and modern folks know how to defeat poverty and get out of deprivations. The Church must not be apologists for folks who still reject Christ and chose to remain poor. These folks have the choice to make: remain in your climes and remain mired in poverty or experience poverty-defeating goodness of Christianity inside the Christian faith as you migrate to the West. Baptisms on the shores of the Med, the English Channel, the Niagara, and suchlike places in the Christian West.

CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI

EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN

THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE

DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU

MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI

THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED

EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA

GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE

DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI

SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI

CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI

EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI

DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO

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TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

Sunday Adole Jonah, Department of Physics, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State

Jokes Aren’t Always Funny

he Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AfAW) urges the Nigerian public to stop ritual attacks and killings because the notion of ritual money and wealth is completely baseless. AfAW is making this call following the reported arrest of suspected ritualists in Oyo State in southern Nigeria. The local media reported that members of the Western Nigeria Security Network, Amotekun, arrested suspected ritualists with the body parts of a 73-year-old man. The suspects, who were apprehended in the Boluwaji area in Ibadan, said that a Muslim cleric asked them to procure some human body parts for rituals. Ritual attacks are widespread in Nigeria. Irrational conceptions of how to make money or become wealthy and successful undergird these atrocities. Many Nigerians strongly believe in blood money, known in some local languages as Ogun Owo (Yoruba) or Ogwu ego (Igbo). They think that they could become rich, or successful through ritual sacrifice. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Ritual wealth has no basis in reason, science, or reality. Home movies known as Africa magic or Nollywood films have not helped matters. These movies continue to reinforce these mistaken notions and other superstitions. Families, churches, mosques, and other public institutions do not encourage the interrogation of these traditional occult beliefs. There are no robust efforts to criticize or dispel these irrational and paranormal claims in schools, colleges, and universities. So millions of Nigerians grow up blindly believing that they could make money through ritual sacrifice of human body parts. The belief has led many Nigerians to commit crimes and perpetrate atrocities. Many Nigerians have been jailed or are undergoing court trials due to ritualrelated attacks and murder.

President Trump has joked that “I’d like to be Pope.” There is some concern however that he may have broken, if not smashed some of the ten big rules. Senator Lindsey Graham said he was ‘a dark horse candidate’. There is horse involvement but rather than “Mr. Ed” providing wisdom, this will involve horse manure.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia

Not too long ago, the police arrested some young Nigerians for stealing female pants, which they intended to use for ritual sacrifice. AfAW is asking all Nigerians to desist from ritual-related abuses because ritual money beliefs are baseless superstitions. Nigerian media, schools, and colleges should help educate and reorient the public. They should assist in reasoning Nigerians out of this killer-superstitious absurdity and nonsense.

Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged

Workers deserve more...

a waste!

COURTESY VISIT...

Nigeria Commences e-Visa Application, Automated Landing, Exit Card Systems

As part of the ongoing efforts to reform Nigeria's visa policy, internal control of the movement of foreigners in and out of the country, the Federal Ministry of Interior in conjunction with the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) have rolled out two innovative solutions: e-Visa Application System and Automated Landing and Exit Card.

According to a statement by Nigeria Immigration Service, the two innovative solutions were effective from 1st May 2025.

The statement read: “Following the 2024 review of Nigeria’s Visa policy, the updated 2025 policy introduces an e-Visa system with enhanced security protocols.

“The e-Visa application process is strictly online from end to end; Processing time for e-Visas will be 48 hours or less; The e-Visa application system introduces thirteen (13) Visa types of Short Visit Visa (SVV), details can be found on https:// evisa.immigration.gov.ng/

“Once approved, visas and the QR codes will be sent electronically via applicant’s email; Visa on Arrival will be officially discontinued as the new e-Visa takes off on 1st May 2025; Visas obtained through the e-Visa Channel are not extendable; Visa on Arrival already issued will remain valid until 30th May 2025.”

The statement further disclosed that: “In addition to the introduction of the e-Visa, Nigeria Visa Policy 2025 now makes it mandatory for foreigners who overstay their visas to be liable to the following penalties (effective from 2nd August 2025):

“Overstay Penalties (Effective from 1st September 2025): $15 per day; 3 months & above: $15/day + 5-year entry ban; 1 year & above: $15/day + blacklisting (permanent entry ban)

It also added that: “The current manual embarkation and disembarkation card has been replaced by an electronic landing and exit card, via https://lecard. immigration.gov.ng/

“Automated landing and exit

Sexual Harassment: US-Based Nigerian Blogger, Akpoti-Uduaghan Trade Words Over Bribery Allegations

A United States-based social media influential and Blogger, Dr. Sandra Duru, also known as Professor Mgbeke, has alleged that she was offered N200m by the suspended Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, to implicate the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio.

Duru stated this while providing evidences of her conversations with Akpoti-Uduaghan on her Facebook page on Thursday night

She urged the relevant authorities in the US and other parts of the world to conduct forensic examinations on her claims.

However, the Kogi Central Senator, Akpoti-Uduaghan, denied all allegations levelled her in a statement she personally signed, alleging that Duru manipulated her words to allegedly suit the interest of the Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Natasha said, “I have carefully watched a livestream which was done by one Sandra C Duru on facebook, on May 1st, 2025.

“The content of the livestream including the voice effect credited to me are entirely untrue, and most

manipulated to serve Sandra Duru’s ulterior motive of playing the script of Senator Godswill Akpabio.

“To the best of my knowledge, those words used are false and did not emanate from the natural cause of any contact involving me.

“It was from recent research that I also found out that the person who now represents herself as Sandra Duru is the same person who operated as Prof. Mgbeke on Facebook.

“In the nearest of time, I will respond to the unfounded allegations made therein.”

But the Blogger while showing some of the evidences, said the conversations revealed the lies behind the sexual harassment allegation levelled against Akpabio by Natasha.

She also exposed call logs and conversations to debunk Natasha’s claim that she had never spoken to her before.

Duru specifically alleged that Natasha offered her N200 million to accuse the Senate President of organ harvesting, linking him with the death of a young girl who died a few years ago when she wasn’t getting anywhere with her sexual harassment allegation.

card have been introduced for inbound and outbound passengers into Nigeria.

“For the inbound passengers (excluding Nigerians), the landing card must be duly completed online before boarding.

“For the outbound passengers, the exit card must be duly completed online before departure.

“The exit card system is synchronizsed with the Visa Processing Centre and will automatically apply penalties,

including visa bans, where applicable.“

The statement read: “The Nigeria Immigration Service wishes to further inform the general public that a window period of three (3) months from 1st May to 1st August 2025

shall be granted to allow foreigners residing in Nigeria with expired visas to return to their home country voluntarily without penalty. “All stakeholders are encouraged to ensure strict compliance with the new policies and timelines.”

Seyi Tinubu Denies Bribing, Abducting, Torturing NANS President, Abubakar Isah

Atiku asks president to call his family to order, says Nigeria not private estate

Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Sunday Ehigiator in Lagos

Seyi Tinubu, son of Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has denied the bribery, abduction, and torture allegations made by the newly elected President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Comrade Atiku Abubakar Isah, against him, describing them as an attempt to defame his character.

This was as former vice president and the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the last general election, Atiku Abubukar, has called on President Tinubu to call his family members to order, especially his son, Seyi.

Atiku in a statement by his media aide, Paul Ibeh was reacting to the alleged attack on the President of NANS, Isah who claimed on a spiral video that he was tortured on the orders of Seyi Tinubu.

Reacting in an Instagram post yesterday, Seyi wrote: “How can someone

lie with so much confidence? This is an attempt to defame my character. May God be with you, Comrade Atiku Isah.”

In another post, he added, “I have never held a meeting to discuss any subject matter with Comrade Isah in Lagos or anywhere else in the world. I have never knowingly met him before. Neither did I visit any location with thugs. All these allegations made by Atiku Isah are completely fictional.”

The response came after Isah's press conference on Wednesday, during which he alleged that Seyi and the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, offered him a N100 million bribe in Lagos, purportedly to influence his support for President Tinubu's administration.

Isah alleged that he turned down the N100 million bribe, citing his inability to endorse a president who had failed to deliver on promises. He further claimed that his refusal led to his abduction and eventual torture on the orders of Seyi, who he claimed also stripped him naked

and recorded him with the intention to blackmail him.

“I was abducted on the 15th of April. I was stripped naked and beaten seriously in collaboration with the MD of NTA. I did that to gain my freedom, but immediately, I released a press statement that I was forced under duress. Because I was naked, I was beaten. They claimed they would share the video,” he alleged. He further accused unnamed individuals of threatening to cover up any potential fallout, even suggesting that his life could be taken with no consequences.

“They told me that nothing would happen if they shared the video, and even if they killed me, Seyi Tinubu would order a cover-up. Ladoja, who was involved, said he would instruct the Inspector General of Police to cover it up and that if the police didn’t comply, he would go.

“I made it clear that even if I am shot, I will still come to this hall. The

inauguration proceeded, and I was announced as president. I want Nigerians to know what has happened and that we will not give up. Seyi Tinubu can do anything he wants, but we are determined.

Meanwhile, Atiku in the statement said, ''President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must urgently rein in his family members, particularly his son, Seyi Tinubu, who appears determined to purchase political loyalty for his father by any means necessary, including coercion, violence, and intimidation.

''The serious allegations made by the President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Comrade Atiku Isah — alleging physical assault, abduction, and inducement at the hands of Seyi Tinubu — are deeply alarming and strike at the core of democratic norms and civil liberty. That such grave accusations are being levelled against a member of the first family is both disturbing and dangerous.''

Court Convicts BRT Driver of Rape, Murder, Sexual Assault, to Die By Hanging

A Lagos High Court sitting at Tafawa Balewa Square yesterday sentenced Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) driver, Andrew Ominikoron, to death by hanging for the rape and murder of 22-year-old fashion designer, Oluwabamise Ayanwola.

Justice Sherifat Sonaike found Ominikoron guilty of multiple offences, including the murder and attempted rape of Ayanwola.

The court also convicted him of raping one Nneka Udezulu and sexually assaulting Dr. Victoria Anosike, both of whom had boarded his BRT bus on different occasions. Delivering judgement, Justice

Sonaike held "On count one (rape of Nneka Udezulu): life imprisonment.

"On count three (attempted rape of Ayanwola): 14 years' imprisonment.

"On count five (sexual assault of Dr. Anosike): three years' imprisonment.

"On count four (murder of Oluwabamise Ayanwola): death by hanging.

“You will be hanged by the neck until you be dead. May God have mercy on your soul,” the judge pronounced.

Justice Sonaike said the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.

She noted that Ayanwola’s voice recording sent to a friend while she was in the BRT bus constituted a valid

dying declaration.

According to the judge, the recording, combined with witness testimony about the defendant’s pattern of luring unsuspecting women in isolated areas and sexually assaulting them, confirmed that Ominikoron was a serial rapist.

“All the circumstantial evidence, his failure to report the incident to his employers, and his escape to a remote village before arrest point to a guilty mind,” she held.

The judge also criticised Ominikoron's courtroom demeanour, saying he lied throughout his defence and attempted to appeal to the court’s sympathy by expressing regret.

She added, “The fact that these

crimes were committed within a three-month interval suggests there may be more victims who were too ashamed to come forward.”

“This case is an eye-opener. Government must overhaul its recruitment and vetting processes to ensure the safety of female passengers.”

The prosecution called nine witnesses, while the defendant was the sole witness for the defence. Ominikoron was first arraigned on March 22, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the five-count charge of conspiracy, rape, attempted rape, and murder.

The offences contravene Sections 411, 223, 260, and 165 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

Wale Igbintade

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

L-R: Chairman, Interswitch, Ken Olisa; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, and Group Managing Director/Founder Interswitch, Micheal Elegbe, during a courtesy visit by the Interswitch team to the minister in Abuja… yesterday

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

DESTINATION 2030 DATA PLATFORM STRATEGIC RETREAT…

Rivers Women Stage Walkout on Sole Administrator’s Wife, Demand Fubara’s Recall

First Lady empowers women in state

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Hundreds of Rivers State’s women, yesterday, walked out of an empowerment event championed by the wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, in Port Harcourt, the state capital.

The initiative which is part of a broader national programme targeting

Olawale Ajimotokan and Michael Olugbode in Abuja

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has pleaded caution and ethical approach in the adoption by Nigerian media for Artificial Intelligence (AI) for faster reporting, data analysis, and investigative journalism due to growing concerns around misinformation, bias, and transparency.

18,500 women across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, was held at the EUI Event Centre along Abacha Road, Port Harcourt. In a bid to boost economic opportunities for women, the First Lady embarked on distribution of essential business equipment to 500 underprivileged women in the state. It was observed that some of the women who are beneficiaries of the empowerment, walked out of the programme when the wife of the state Sole Administrator, Dr. Thereasa Ibok-Ete Ibas, mounted the podium to address them.

Earlier, there were speculations that the wife of President Bola Tinubu was in town and going to address the women, but when it turned out

Idris Urges Caution on Adoption of

that the wife of the sole administrator would address them on behalf of the First Lady, the development sparked the women's anger. Most of the women who are drawn from the 23 local government areas of the state, were sighted walking out of the venue of the event chanting, "We want Sim, give us Sim, we want Valery, we want Remi Tinubu to

AI in Journalism

speak to us," saying that they did not understand on what capacity “Lady Ete-Ibas” was addressing them.

One of the women who disclosed her name as Ekpeye Favour, explained that “Rivers women did not walk out Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu's empowerment programme. The women today, rejected Ibas. That is what we did.

Dr. Ibas explained that the scheme has already been completed in the North-central zone, with the Rivers State event marking its conclusion in the South-south region.

“These tools are designed to help our women establish and grow successful businesses, contributing to the nation’s prosperity,” she said.

“This programme reflects the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritises inclusivity, economic growth, and sustainable development, particularly for women.”

Similarly, the United Nations (UN) Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Fall, has advised the media to approach the use of AI with caution, stating that as it can empower fact-based reporting, so also can it accelerate disinformation, deepen surveillance, and silence truth. Idris echoed this at the 2025 World Press Freedom Day event hosted by Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) and the Centre for Journalism

Innovation and Development (CJID) in Abuja.

Urge FG to be cautious in energy transition

The minister, represented by was represented by Director, Public Relations and Protocol, Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Suleiman Haruna, expressed commitment that while artificial intelligence is reshaping the global media landscape, Nigeria is stepping forward as a leader in promoting press freedom, ethical journalism, and media literacy in

the digital age.

The theme of the event ‘Reporting in the Brave New World – The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media’, focused on the evolving dynamics of journalism in an AI-driven era.

Idris emphasised the dual nature of AI in journalism, highlighting both its transformative potential and the critical risks it poses to journalistic integrity, information accuracy, and democratic accountability.

Palace Announces Owa Adesuyi Haastrup’s Coronation Activities

The Palace of the Owa Obokun Adimula and Paramount Ruler of Ijesaland has announced a series of activities that would culminate in the coronation of His Imperial Majesty, Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Ajimoko III, as the 41st monarch of the Kingdom.

A former Deputy Governor of Osun State, Haastrup, a billionaire business mogul, was named as successor to the departed Owa, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II, on Friday, December 27, 2024.

A statement issued by the Chairman of the Media and Publicity Sub-Committee,

Chief Shola Oshunkeye, explained that the Coronation Committee had unfurled a 10-day programme of activities that would start on Friday, May 16, and hit a crescendo with the coronation of the new Owa on Friday, May 23, 2025. All events will hold at Ilesa, the capital and heartland of Ijesaland, where strong indications have already emerged that the epoch would be an iconic representation of royal pageantry rarely witnessed in this clime.

According to the statement, the epoch kicks off on Friday, May 16, 2025, with a special Jumat Service at

Ilesa Central Mosque starting from 1 p.m. while cultural celebration holds on Saturday, May 17th, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. at the newly refurbished Obokungbusi Hall. From 9p.m. of the same day, culture and traditional take the centre stage with a grand Isese night holding at the palace courtyard.

On Monday, May 19, 2025, there will be royal visit to Ijesa zones between 10a.m. and 4p.m., while on Tuesday, May 20, the grand finale of the coronation sporting activities will begin with the Owa Ajimoko III Ijesa Marathon starting at 7a.m.

From 10a.m., the same day, the final of the coronation football competition, medal presentation and awards ceremony will hold at the Ilesa Grammar School Sports arena. Wednesday, May 21, 2025, would be the turn of the various orphanages in and around Ilesa to have their fair share of the celebrations with visits and charity by eminent persons, starting from 10 o’clock in the morning. The day continues with a video documentary and workshop by ljesa Mineral Resources Development Forum, lMRDF, scheduled for p.m. at the University of Ilesa.

Pastor Evelyn Joshua Leads Holy SpiritVisitation to

South Africa is on the brink of a powerful spiritual renewal as Pastor Evelyn Joshua brings a dynamic revival to the Expo Centre in Johannesburg on May 16, 2025.

This landmark event, tagged ‘Holy Spirit Visitation with Pastor Evelyn Joshua’ and hosted by The Synagogue, Church of All Nations (SCOAN), will be a life-changing experience for all in attendance — a blessed opportunity for deliverance, breakthrough, healing, and salvation, in the name of Jesus Christ.

The woman of God, alongside SCOAN evangelists, will be ministering to a diverse audience made up of both South Africans and international visitors, all united by a deep hunger for God’s presence. Across the nation, the atmosphere is electric with anticipation, as multitudes prepare for miraculous encounters and divine transformation.

Speaking about the forthcoming revival, Pastor Joshua said, “I believe that the Holy Spirit Visitation in South Africa is God’s answer to many people’s prayers. Nothing short of

the standard in Christ’s Ministry will transpire. The sick will be healed, the oppressed shall be delivered, the weak shall be strengthened and the lost shall be saved. The works will speak for themselves, as reflected in John 7:38.”

Since the passing of Prophet T.B. Joshua, Pastor Evelyn Joshua has continued his legacy, as exemplified by the Ministry’s successful international crusades in Spain, Kenya, Zambia and more recently, Argentina. Notably for South Africa, the church’s previous outreach at the Gallagher Centre in

South Africa

Johannesburg in August 2022 drew thousands and resulted in remarkable testimonies of healing, deliverance, and restoration.

This year’s revival, which will be broadcast live on Emmanuel TV, is expected to surpass the previous gathering, as faith-filled crowds prepare to witness an extraordinary outpouring of God’s power. The Holy Spirit Visitation is not just an event — it is a divine appointment, a moment where heaven meets earth and lives are forever changed.

“We were told to come out and welcome Her Excellency, Senator Remi Tinubu and we dressed up. See me in my double wrapper and we wore shirts with her and our First Lady, Valera Fubara. We were so happy to welcome Her Excellency, because we are appreciative of her empowerment programme, only to be addressed by someone claiming to be our First Lady in the state.

“Rivers women could not sit down and watch such a thing happen, so they stood up and left. We are not fragile, we have a governor, one governor at a time, and we have our mummy of the nation that we support and she is helping women across the nation," she added.

Meanwhile, the protest did not stop the programme, as some other women who were seated quietly at the event despite the chaotic environment, left the venue with deep freezers, gas cookers with ovens, grinding machines, and generators.

Speaking on behalf of Mrs. Tinubu,

She further highlighted the initiative’s alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG-5 (Gender Equality) and SDG-8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). She underscored the critical role of peace in achieving lasting development, noting that her husband’s appointment as Rivers State sole administrator was aimed at restoring stability.

She urged residents to support efforts to maintain law and order, ensuring the state returns to its “cherished path of glory.”

Speaking also, Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, emphasised the need for women to engage in productive ventures amid current economic challenges.

Culture Minister Backs Photo, Video Competition

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, has thrown her weight behind the programme tagged, 'See Motherland Through Your Eyes Photo and Video Competition', saying it aims to capture and share Nigeria's vibrancy.

The minister in a message to the organiser, Discover Motherland in Africa in partnership with her ministry, also explained that the competition is showcasing the beauty, resilience, and spirit of the Motherland.

She described the competition as an invitation to capture and share Nigeria's vibrancy, showcasing the beauty, resilience, and spirit of the Motherland, noting that from the

Kelangu drumbeats of the North to the Bata rhythms of the South-west and the echoing Ogene of the East, the culture of the country moves like a dance and alive in every moment.

"This is more than a competition— it’s an invitation to reflect, reconnect, and reimagine Nigeria through your personal lens,” she said.

The Co-Founder of Discover Motherland Africa, Chidimma Nwankwo, on her part, said the competition which will run from April 29 to June 1, 2025, is a new opportunity for Nigerians at home and abroad to rediscover and celebrate their roots. She added that the competition is a powerful call to capture the beauty, pride, and spirit of Nigeria through personal storytelling.

L-R: Special Assistant to Minister, Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy on Sub-national Partnership and Tourism, Abiola Abdulkareem; Special Adviser to the President on Partnership and Innovation, Imran Garba Duba; Chairman, Cavista Holdings, John Olajide; Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa; and Director of International Tourism Relations and Cooperation, Department of Tourism, Dorothy Duruaku, at the Destination

2030 Data Platform Strategic Retreat, held at Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Centre, Ekiti…recently

PANEL SESSION ON MIGRATION...

Minister: Nigeria Loses $17.72bn

Illicit Financial Flows in Africa

of $88.6bn

Champions African position on asset recovery at UN

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

The federal government has stated that recent estimates indicate that Africa loses $88.6 billion annually to illicit financial flows, with Nigeria accounting for approximately $17.72 billion or 20 per cent of the losses. These outflows, it observed, hinder the country's ability to provide essential infrastructure and services to its citizens.

The Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite who made the disclosure at the United Nations (UN) Headquarters in New York, United States of America ahead of

the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4), highlighted the significant impact of illicit financial flows and financial crime on sustainable development in Nigeria and across Africa.

Addressing key stakeholders on ‘Safeguarding Sustainable Development Finance by Addressing Illicit Financial Flows and Fighting Financial Crimes’, Uzoka-Anite underscored Nigeria's commitment to addressing these challenges.

"These illicit financial flows are a major obstacle to our development, depriving our citizens of essential services and infrastructure. We

FRC: Nigeria Not in Hyperinflationary Stage, Insists IAS-29 Not Applicable for 2025 Financial Statements

Dike Onwuamaeze

The Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC) has declared that the inflationary rate in Nigeria has not reached a hyperinflation stage that would necessitate the application of IAS 29 for the preparation of financial statements for the 2025 financial year.

The FRC made this declaration in a public statement that was signed by its Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Rabiu Olowo, dated April 30, 2025, and captioned ‘FRC’s Position on IAS 29-Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies’.

Olowo clarified that determining whether the economy is in a hyperinflation would require significant judgement and consideration of all relevant economic indicators as the FRC has stated in its earlier release on January 22, 2025.

He said, “The FRC concludes that Nigeria is not yet a hyperinflationary economy due to the positive economic outlook that has strengthened the council’s earlier position.

“Therefore, IAS 29 should not be applied in the preparation of financial statements for the 2025 financial year. The FRC will continue to monitor economic developments and update this position when necessary.”

He explained that this public statement is an addendum to the council’s earlier position on the above subject released on the January 22, 2025 and sequel to the release of the World Economic Outlook Report by the IMF on April 22, 2025 and the rebasing of

the Nigerian economy in January 2025 by National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) that has impacted the GDP and inflation rate, as well as the FRC’s engagement with various stakeholders such as the external auditors, government regulatory agencies and others, where an objective evaluation of the five indicators of the economic environment of a country as stipulated in “IAS 29: Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies” were undertaken especially to determine the relevance and applicability of the standard in Nigeria in light of the inflationary trend in the country. Olowo highlighted that inasmuch as the IAS 29 outlined the accounting requirements for entities in hyperinflationary economies, “it does not specify when hyperinflation arises or is deemed to arise but rather outlines several indicators of hyperinflation that includes a preference for non-monetary assets, pricing in stable foreign currencies, credit sales adjusting for inflation, and a cumulative inflation rate approaching or exceeding 100 per cent over a three year period.”

According to him, the FRC's analysis of these indicators for Nigeria revealed that Nigerians have continued to “transact in local currency and invest in Naira-denominated assets, indicating confidence in the local currency.”

For an instance, “in February 2025, N670 billion treasury bills issued were oversubscribed to N3.1 trillion

“In April 2025, the FGN Saving Bond issued by the DMO in two types: 2-Year and 3-Year tenors had N1.135 trillion and N3.2 trillion subscriptions, respectively.”

must work together to ensure that our resources are utilised for the benefit of our citizens," she said.

To address the challenge, the minister said, "Nigeria remains committed to multilateral cooperation through ourchampioning of the Common African Position on Asset Recovery (CAPAR) and supporting

the UN Framework on international tax cooperation."

Uzoka-Anite emphasised the importance of enhancing beneficial ownership transparency and improving information sharing across borders to make asset recovery more efficient.

According to her, "True progress requires equity in global financial

systems. We must work together to build better systems that ensure resources remain where they belong - financing sustainable development for our citizens."

The minister reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to collaborating with international partners to achieve a more equitable and sustainable financial system.

"By working together, we can ensure that resources are utilised for the benefit of all citizens rather than being siphoned off through illicit means. We owe it to ourselves, our children, and future generations to take bold action against illicit financial flows and financial crime," she stressed.

Group Lauds NJC for Sanctioning Erring Judges, Calls for Sustained Momentum

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

Citizens' Gavel, a civic-tech organisation promoting access to justice, transparency, and accountability in Nigeria, has commended the National Judicial Council (NJC) for implementing disciplinary measures against erring judges over acts of judicial misconduct.

Announced on April 30, 2025, at its 108th meeting, the organisation said the decision reflects the NJC’s commitment to upholding judicial integrity and rebuilding public trust, especially in light of widespread concerns about

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

The Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has approved the payment of the National Examination Council (NECO) registration fee for over 24, 000 students in public secondary schools in the state.

bias and controversial rulings.

In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Nelson Olanikpekun, the organisation stated that these steps align with best practices and echo recommendations submitted to the CJN in September 2024.

He said while the action is a step in the right direction, there's the need to sustain the momentum in alignment with public concerns, noting that one-year suspension falls short of the gravity of the offense especially in cases where judicial officers have exhibited sustained impunity and disregard for

due process.

He said moving forward, there is a need to collaborate closely with civil societies, the Nigerian Bar Association, and other stakeholders to design and implement systemic reforms that address root causes of judicial compromise.

"Justice Kekere-Ekun’s push for zero tolerance of judicial misconduct - highlighted at the 2024 Judges’ Performance Conference - has propelled reforms, including digital case management, officer training, and more transparent disciplinary processes.

"Citizens’ Gavel therefore calls on the NJC to not only sustain but intensify its accountability efforts by revising disciplinary guidelines to ensure that egregious misconduct attracts proportionate sanctions, including dismissal and disqualification from future judicial appointments.

"Overhauling the appointment and promotion processes to prevent compromised officers from ascending to higher judicial offices and strengthening whistleblower protections and creating more accessible, transparent channels for reporting judicial misconduct."

The Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the governor on Public Affairs, Peter Ahemba, disclosed this yesterday at a bimonthly press conference in Lafia.

According to Ahemba, the initiative, which was the second time the government was doing this, had captured all final-year students in public secondary schools.

The governor's aide added that it was aimed at ensuring that all eligible students can sit for the examination without financial burdens to their parents.

He added that the government did not discriminate against any student, as both indigenes and non-indigenes studying in public schools benefited from the government gesture.

The SSA emphasised that this initiative was part of the state's efforts to promote education and alleviate financial hardship on students and their families.

"Because of the state government's huge investment in the education sector, the state was ranked ninth best in the entire country and second best in the North-Central performance index in NECO for 2024," he added.

NNPC Foundation Launches Free Cataract Screening in Adamawa

Daji Sani in Yola

The NNPC Foundation has launched a free cataract screening and extraction programme in Adamawa State, with the aim of restoring sight to thousands of individuals across the country.

According to the Managing Director, Mrs. Emmanuel Arukwe, who was represented by Dr. David Bala, at the Eye Centre Specialist Hospital, Yola, the programme recognises that sight is a

fundamental pillar of human dignity and opportunity.

Dr. Bala said the programme aims to provide free

is designed to improve and

strengthen the health of communities across the country. By providing free cataract screening and surgeries, the foundation hopes to restore sight to thousands of individuals and improve their quality of life. He said the programme is part of the NNPC Foundation's efforts to give back to the community and improve the health and well-being of Nigerians. The foundation recognises that access to quality healthcare is a fundamental

human right, and this programme is designed to bridge the gap in access to care services, particularly in underserved communities.

"The launch of the programme in Adamawa State is a significant milestone in the foundation's efforts to address the burden of cataract-related blindness in the country. The programme is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of thousands of individuals and families across the state and beyond.

L-R: Lead, Nigeria Study & Post-Doctoral Researcher, University of Amsterdam,Dr. Sarah Adeyinka; Director, Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Mrs. Olubukola Rosanwo;Special Adviser to the Oyo State Governor on Migration & Homeland Security, Segun Adegoke; Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Sustainable Development Goals, Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih; Sabre West Africa Officer, Lagos State Neighbourhood Agency, Mr. Kabir Adelaja, and ED, Media Coalition & Awareness to Halt Human Trafficking, Mr. James Ikape, during a panel session at a one-day forum organised by postdoctoral researcher, Adeyinka, who highlighted key findings from her Reintegrate Project for returning migrants in Lagos...recently

HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT WEEK...

L-R:

Bode George to Tinubu: Implement 2014 Confab Report Now

As the race for the 2027 election hots up, former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has advised President Bola Tinubu to implement the report of the 2014 National Conference to ensure a better nation.

He also urged the President to do so in the memory of Chief Ayo Adebanjo and Senator Edwin Clark whom he said, contributed robustly to the conference debates, with the aim of making Nigeria a better place

Anambra

for all.

Addressing journalists in Lagos yesterday, George, a former military governor of old Ondo State said it will be a good thing if the reports of the conference are look into and implemented ahead of the elections, stressing that both Adebanjo and Clark brought their wealth of experience to bare when contributing to the discussions at the confab. The recommendations of which he said, are good for a new Nigeria.

He said some issues the elder statesmen dealt extensively on are the defects in the 1999 constitution,

and that was one of the reasons it is difficult to move Nigeria forward.

According to him, Clark and Adebanjo fought for a better Nigeria, and they filled the gap between the younger generation and the older generation at the confab, and they knew where Nigeria got it wrong.

"Nigerians deserve to have the report of the 2014 conference, because God used the two elder statesmen to impact on us.

"Let the report of the 2014 confab be released in the memory of Chief Adebanjo and Chief Clark, it is when the report is released that Nigeria

will be in peace." George said.

He explained that the recommendations included in the report of the 2014 confab will help in liberating Nigeria. "If Nigeria could liberate other countries, why can't we also liberate ourselves?" he asked.

Speaking on the implosion in his party, the PDP, he said the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the party will meet on May 27,2025 to discuss challenges facing the party and resolve their differences.

He affirmed that the party is strong and built on a strong foundation, so it can never go under as speculated

Elders Endorse Soludo's Re-election Bid

Rights group calls on governor to account for over 30 arrested native doctors

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

Elders of Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State under the aegis of Oyi Elders Consultative Forum, have endorsed the re-election bid of the Governor Chukwuma Soludo. However, a rights group, International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety) has tasked Governor Soludo to account for over 30 native doctors arrested by state security operatives in the state.

Members of the Oyi Elders Consultative Forum endorsed Soludo for a second term yesterday during a ceremony to inaugurate its new office in Nteje, the headquarters of the local government area.

A motion for the endorsement was moved by the Chairman of the local government, Hon. Emma Nweke and seconded by an elder statesman of the area, Chief Elochukwu Gwacham.

The Forum said the endorsement was because of the laudable job the Governor Soludo was doing in the state.

A member of the forum and Senior Special Assistant to the governor on Media, Hon Chidiebele Obika, said Prof. Soludo has done well within his first tenure and deserves to be

given time to complete his projects for the state.

He said, "The governor is doing well and we want to use this opportunity to endorse him for a second term. We will support his re-election and also ensure that the people of Oyi Local Government vote massively for him.

"We thank Mr. Governor for all the things he has done and still doing for the good people of Oyi. There are several projects he has done for us in Oyi, including Eke Igwe Nteje-Nando Road, Nkwelle Ezunaka-Nteje Airport Road, Umunya-Ogbunike Road, among others."

Speaking on the reason for the formation of the forum, Obika said the forum is the coming together of strong stakeholders from different political parties in Oyi including non-partisan persons to forge a common course for the interest of Ndi Oyi.

The patron of the forum and chairman of Osisioma Foundation, Dr. Chike Obidigbo, stated that the group would continue to champion the betterment of the people of the area.

He urged the people of Oyi especially those in various positions of authority to invest more in human

capital development, which he said accelerates all round developments in every society.

Meanwhile, the group said it is aware that the state Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, had in February made a press release, claiming that over 30 native doctors have been arrested, following allegations that they make protective charms and money rituals for criminals.

Intersociety however added that it is surprised that since then, only three of the arrested native doctors have been charged to court and are currently undergoing trial. It insisted that the state government needs to clear the air about those unaccounted for.

In a press statement signed by the Chairman Board of Trustees of the group, Mr. Emeka Umeagbalasi, the group said the people deserve to know if the others have been set free, killed or being held.

He said, "The state government undeniably issued a post State Executive Council statement on February 18, 2025, through the State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, confirming that “not less than 30 native doctors and Ndi

years.

A statement by the council said, "This significant financial package targets councillors who served during three distinct periods: 2014-2017, 2018-2020, and 2021-2024.”

presided over by Governor Yusuf on Tuesday at the new Governor House at Kwankwasiyya City. The affected councillors served under the immediate past Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje for eight

It further revealed that "The funds are set to be disbursed in three instalments across April, May, and June 2025.

"The rare magnanimity of Governor Yusuf to offset the huge

Ezenwanyi are in the custody of the state government as at last count.

"Despite the fact that the state government declined to give more details including their names, arrest and detention locations and detention facilities and when they were arrested; further findings by the Intersociety showed that their number later increased to not less than 40.

"Three of them; Chigozie Nwangwu or “Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki N’ Oba; Onyeze Jesus and Ekene Igboekweze or Eke-Hit N’ Okija were arraigned on April 4, 2025 before an Anambra State High Court, after having been held unlawfully for months.

"The belated court arraignment of the trio followed public outcry and release of our 35-Page Special Report on Attacks and Violence against Freedom of Religion or Worship or Belief in South-East Nigeria, dated April 3, 2025.

"Apart from the fact that nothing is heard till date concerning the remaining others, numbering not less than 37, provisions of the Anambra Homeland Security Law 2025 are also found to have been observed in gross breach by the security outfit and the Government of Anambra State," the group said.

debt that Ganduje failed to settle even with political affinity, underscores the culture of politics without bitterness being ensued by the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) administration in Kano." Yusuf had earlier paid over N20 billion of the outstanding benefits of retired and deceased workers out of the over N40 billion liabilities it inherited from the eight-year Ganduje administration.

in some quarters.

"Those that want to bring the party to disrepute should shield their swords and shut up.

"We will have NEC meeting on May 27, all the elders of the party that are still alive will be present at the meeting.

"No organisation is without crisis, but what is important is the ability to resolve the differences. We should make sure we follow

the party constitution. Those who do not want to stay should go, those who want to stay should stay.

"At the meeting we will tell ourselves some home truth, enough is enough, it is either you are inside or outside," George stated.

Speaking on the high rate of insecurity, kidnapping, and banditry, he said the President should take a bold step to tackle the insecurity challenges.

Fearless Energy Drink: Rite Foods Sues Mamuda Beverages

Alex Enumah in Abuja

Mamuda Beverages Nigeria Ltd, the maker of Pop Power Energy Drinks, has been slammed with a whopping N1.060 billion damages suit over alleged trademark infringement.

The suit filed by Rite Foods Ltd, is accusing the Lebanese firm of imitating its brand, Fearless Energy Drinks, in the production of Pop Power Energy Drinks.

Besides the demand for compensation for damages, the plaintiff is also asking the court for an order of perpetual injunction, restraining the company from further producing Pop Power Energy Drinks with similar resemblance with its products.

In its statement of claim, Rite Foods Ltd, a producer of fast-moving consumer goods such as "Bigi Drinks," "Fearless Energy Drinks," "Sosa Fruit Drinks" and "sausage" narrated how it carved a niche for itself in the energy drink market through the introduction of plastic bottles, departing from the use of metal cans by other producers.

The plaintiff in the fresh suit filed by its team of lawyers led by Oyetola Oshobi, SAN, and Boonyameen Lawal, SAN, averred that Mamuda Beverages infringed on its registered design for the

for N1.060bn

Fearless Energy Drinks bottle, when it produced the Pop Power Energy Drink in striking similarities both in shape, colour, and logo placement, except in size. The plaintiff claimed that the development has led to widespread confusion among consumers and retailers, as some refer to the infringing product as "Small Fearless."

The deponent disclosed that the firm in January this year consequently filed the suit marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/139/2025 to seek redress, adding that Rite Foods obtained injunctive and other preservative orders restraining Mamuda Beverages from continuing with the manufacturing, supplying, distributing, selling, marketing the earlier Pop Power Energy drinks' product.

It alleged that while these interim protective orders of the court were pending, the defendant approached it with a proposal for settlement wherein it was agreed that "the bottle cap shall be changed to a different colour, the two existing border lines on the product label shall be modified to a new colour, the word "classic" on the label shall be replaced with an alternative term and the colour of the bottle shall not be black or gray and shall be adjusted to a different colour."

Court Hears Defence’s Bid to Amend Pleadings in Oak Homes Dispute

Wale Igbintade

Justice Akingbola George of the Lagos State High Court, sitting at Tafawa Balewa Square, has adjourned ruling on an application seeking leave to amend the statement of defence and counterclaim in Suit No. LD/4471LM/2023 to May 26, 2025.

The adjournment followed oral arguments from counsel to both parties - Mr. A.N. Salau for the defendant (Anthony Ugbebor), and Mr. D.A. Ajiboye for the claimant, Oak Homes Multinational Services Ltd.

One of the reliefs sought is for the court to grant leave to amend the defence and deem the amended documents already filed as properly before the court.

Salau argued that the amendment is necessary to include material facts previously omitted, especially those challenging the claimant’s claim that the properties in dispute had been sold. The supporting affidavit alleged that the claimant is attempting to sell the first defendant’s properties without authorisation, despite pending litigation.

During the proceedings, Salau informed the court that the defence filed a motion on March 31, 2025, seeking to amend its initial pleadings, including the statement of defence and counterclaim. The application, supported by a written address and affidavit, contained five prayers.

Segun James

Chairman Programmes Committee, Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC), Tajudeen Ahmed; Chairman Creatives & Culture Committee, Lara Kayode; President/Chairman of Council, Ray Atelly, and Deputy President/Chairman Membership Committee, Akin Osuntoki, at NBCC’s 2025 HSE week held in Lagos…recently

BUSINESS FORUM…

Witness Admits Weapons of Terrorism Not Found on Kanu During 2015 Arrest

A witness of the federal government admitted yesterday, admitted before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja, that no weapon of terrorism or violence was recovered from Nnamdi Kanu, when he was arrested on October 15, 2015 in Lagos.

The witness who is an operative of the Department of the State Services (DSS) and code named PWAAA also, admitted it found nothing dangerous with the lady arrested along with Kanu, nearly 10 years ago.

He made the disclosure under cross examination by Kanu's lawyer, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN.

The Biafra nation agitator has been on trial for nearly 10 years since he was first arrested for alleged treasonable felony and terrorism charges.

He pleaded not guilty and has been in custody of the DSS since his re-arrest and subsequent extradition from Kenya.

His trial since 2015 has gone back and forth and even up to the apex court which had ordered him to respond to the remaining seven count charge against him after the Federal High Court quashed eight out of the 15-count charge

initially filed against him in 2021 after his repatriation.

His trial has also gone through the hands of several judges at the Federal High Court with Justice Omotosho being the fourth to handle the matter.

The judge had at the last proceedings adjourned to May 2, for Kanu to begin cross examination of the PW1, who ended his testimony last month and also tendered all the items recovered from the defendant in 2015 when he was first arrested.

During cross examination, the witness who told the court that all the items recovered were personal properties of the Biafra nation agitator, however said that the recovered items may not be ordinarily offensive but the intention of the defendant may be something else.

When asked of his assessment of the recovered items PWAAA stated that he did not analyze any of the items because his mandate was to effect arrest and obtain a statement from the suspect.

Meanwhile, the witness admitted analysing the cell phone of the defendant, adding that the report of the analysis was not made available to the court because it is immaterial. n the 10 years that the items were

Meta Threatens to Cut Off Facebook, Instagram in Nigeria Over Huge Fines

People in Nigeria may lose access to Facebook and Instagram after the parent company Meta said it faced large fines and "unrealistic" regulatory demands from the Nigerian authorities.

The Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal last week upheld the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC)’s $220 million fine against Meta Platforms Incorporated and WhatsApp LLC, further affirming the authority and actions in nearly all the contested issues.

The tribunal in its judgement had specifically determined that the Commission complied with prevailing laws, discharged its mandate, and exercised its powers within the confines of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

It ruled that the multiple actions by WhatsApp and Meta, for which the Commission made findings of violations, were correctly identified, and that the Commission did not err in making those findings.

Reacting to the development, Meta stated in its court papers: "The applicant may be forced to effectively shut down the Facebook and Instagram services in Nigeria in order to mitigate the risk of enforcement measures."

Meta also owns WhatsApp, but it did not mention the messaging service in its statement.

The high court has given the

company until the end of June to pay the fines.

Facebook is by far the most popular social media platform in Nigeria and is used by tens of millions in the country for daily communication and sharing news. It is also a vital tool for many of Nigeria's small online businesses, BBC reported.

In July last year, Meta was asked to pay three fines: The FCCPC imposed a $220 million fine for alleged anticompetitive practices; the advertising regulator fined the company $37.5 million over unapproved advertising and the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) alleged Meta had violated data privacy laws and fined it $32.8 million.

FCCPC chief executive officer Adamu Abdullahi said investigations carried out in conjunction with the data commission between May 2021 and December 2023 revealed "invasive practices against data subjects/ consumers in Nigeria" but was not specific about what these were.

In its court submission, Meta said its "primary concern" was with the data commission, which it accused of "misinterpreting" data privacy laws. Specifically, the commission has demanded that Meta seek prior approval before transferring any personal data out of Nigeria - a condition that Meta called "unrealistic".

impounded, he admitted the properties may have lost their values and became of no use.

He further explained that he did not bring anybody before Kanu to confront him on any issue of terrorism.

The witness also admitted that Kanu's statement was obtained without the presence of his lawyer and that statements were not obtained from other persons.

He admitted not knowing any person put on trial by the federal government on account of agitation from Biafra nation actualisation.

He however recalled that another Biafra agitator, Simon Ekpa who was recently arrested outside the country would soon be brought for trial.

The witness said that he read in the newspapers and social media those backing the defendant in the agitation.

He said that he did not remember Kanu complaining of corruption in

high places, unemployment among youths and tendering apologies to the President for insults hurled on him and negative remarks against Igbo leaders.

The witness further said that he could not remember when Kanu described IPOB as a voluntary organisation that was not involved in carrying arms against the nation.

He admitted that there were killings in some part of the country especially in the North but that government has been doing its best to stem the tide of the killings.

The witness also said he would not know whether the killings were as a result of self determination agitation.

Some of the items recovered from Kanu and admitted as exhibits included; 1 black laptop, 2 multi mix transmitters, 1 mini white Apple iPad with pouch, 1 grey Apple iPad with pouch, 1 grey MacBook with pouch, 1 grey MacBook with case, 1 mini drone sound wave

speaker, 2 mini white speakers, 1 large computer mouse, 1 white adaptor, 1 laptop adaptor and1 carton bag with laptop.

Others were: two 3G modems, 2 Glo modems, 1 Glo Huawei modem, 1 MTN modem, 1 Etisalat modem, 1 Flash drive, 1 Camcorder, 1 hand recorder in a black pouch, 1 MacBook Pro adaptor, 1 Mic stand, 1 Phillips headphone, 1 Radio Sharp mic with cord, 1 Pro sound mic with cord, 1 4G LTE modem, a bunch of cards, 1 power adaptor for mixer, 1 Easy Blaze white modem, 1 Samsung phone,1 black Motorola phone and1 Nokia phone.

Also found on him are 1 black Samsung phone, 1 black phone, 1 D-Link black modem, 1 8GB flash drive, 1 extension wire adaptor, 1 pair of shoes, 1 belt, 1 pair of

Sowunmi: Peter Obi Only Authentic Presidential Candidate for 2027

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The hardship in the country and the plight of Nigerian workers was at the centre of a seminar in Abuja yesterday, as some members of the Obidient Movement powered by the Cyrus Group and Free Nigeria Foundation held a talk show as part of the May Day celebration.

The high points of the well-attended event were the remarks of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Segun Sowunmi, who declared that the 2023 Labour Party standard bearer, Peter Obi, remains the only authentic presidential candidate for 2027.

According to Sowunmi, “You know I am of the PDP but the future of Nigeria is in Peter Obi. He is the only authentic candidate, all others are fake.”

He said that Obi is restless to see

Nigeria work, and he is everywhere looking for answers to our problems, unlike others who are just waiting for what they are not ready for.

“I am very uncomfortable that we are busy passing the baton between the North and the South West, leaving the very critical section of the country, the Igbo, even when they have Obi, who is the future,”he said. supported his position with historical illustrations and the story of the circumstance that brought Obi into politics which underscores the fact that Obi is basically in politics to change the country.

He charged the Obidient Movement and the Labour Party to emulate the Labour Party in Brazil and work hard to lead the change that is needed in this country.

The Acting National Chairman of the Labour Party, Senator Nenadi

Usman, said that the Labour Party actually belongs to workers wherever they are, at the construction site, in hospitals, in the security sector, etc.

She said that the Labour Party takes any issue concerning workers' welfare very seriously and gave five deals the LP has to restore the dignity of Nigerian workers including, among others, giving workers living wages, Labour rights, non-negotiable health and housing programs for workers, and enforcement of Labour laws.

She said that workers cannot be the creators of wealth and live in penury, pointing out that everything about the Labour struggle is for the welfare of the people.

Dr. Nenadi said that a government can be busy clapping for itself that it has achieved a lot but once it’s not reflected in the welfare of the people, it’s no governance.

PSN Challenges NMA’s Order against FG’s Appointment of Consultant Pharmacists

The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) Lagos State branch has challenged the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Lagos chapter’s attempt to scuttle the federal government’s appointment of Consultant Pharmacists in Federal Health Institutions in the state, describing it as biting more than it could chew.

PSN Lagos Chairman, Babayemi Oyekunle, while reacting to a recent communiqué allegedly issued by the NMA Lagos chapter rejecting the appointment of Consultant Pharmacists into federal health institutions in the

state and calling for a “reversal of the appointment irrespective of its legality,” including a warning that its members in the two affected federal health institutions in Lagos State would embark a warning strike; declared the action of the physicians body as a “hostile and monarchical attempts to undermine the implementation of the Consultant Pharmacist Cadre approved by the government.’’ According to him, NMA Lagos State had mandated its leadership to write to the Federal Ministry of Health on the

inherent danger of the Consultant Cadre in Pharmacy while a “clear and strong warning was issued to all other Medical Directors and Chief Medical Directors contemplating the implementation of Consultant Pharmacist Cadre in their institutions” to stop. Oyekunle described the NMA Lagos as “vintage epitome of monarchical antiquity in which many Nigerian physicians still dwell in 2025,” saying that “its uncouth statements are unduly aggressive and hostile and amount to a declaration of war.

ciderwood sneakers and1 footwear.

Other items are 1 black Softech wristwatch, 2 singlets, 1 sealed Hermes perfume, 1 trinket, 1 Pokham perfume, 1 Fredrick Peckham wristwatch, 1 Diesel wristwatch, 1 Alexander Christy collection wristwatch, 1 Club wrist watch and10 items altogether.

The last set are 3 bank MasterCards, copies of documents, 1 copy of IPOB complementary card, documents tagged IPOB, 1 white clipper 1 bottle of medicine, 1 Oman perfume, 2 mini scented oils, 1 empty black purse, 1 Nigerian passport bearing the names Okwu Kanu Nwannekaibeya Nnamdi Ngozichukwu and1 British passport bearing the name Okwu Kanu Nwannekaibeya, 1 black purse, 1 passport holder, 1 Card holder, 1 Box of Rocarden wristwatch and 4 bundles of cords.

I, formerly known and addressed as JENNIFER UJUNWA OBSAI, now wish to be known and addressed as JENNIFER UJUNWA ALICHA All former documents remain valid. General public please take note. I, formerly known and addressed as GAVIN GIDEON STEPHEN, now wish to be known and addressed as GAVIN IHECHI OGU All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as WINIFRED NELSON UTIP, now wish to be known and addressed as WINIFRED ESSANGUBONG OKON All documents bearing my Former name remains valid. NYSC and general public please take note. formerly known and addressed as MICHAEL ABUCHI MICHAEL now wish to be known and addressed as KETU JOHN, my DoB was wrongly written as 27th June 1975 instead of 4th January 1981 and my place of birth is koidu town, Sierra Leone. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

is

remain

please take note. I, formerly known and addressed as MISS AZUBUIKE CHINWENDU VIVIAN, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS UWAGA CHINWENDU VIVIAN. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note

All

The

L-R: Technical Adviser to the MD, NEXIM, Hope Yongo; CEO, Fiducia International, Chukwuka Amadife; Group Head, CBG South South, Access Bank, Evi Ufuoma Kanu; MD/CEO, Fiducia, Imohimi Aig-Imoukhuede, and, Zonal Head, Commercial Banking South, Access Bank, Fidel Ibeabuchi, at the Fiducia Factoring Forum in Port Harcourt….recently

Alex Enumah in Abuja

Folashade Rafiat Adebowale and Oladapo Abayomi Ismail tied the knot at a glamorous traditional wedding held at the Five Palm Event Center, Lekki, Lagos..recently. Thereafter, a reception followed where guests and well wishers were entertained. Here are the faces of some of the personalities that graced the occasion.

PHOTOS: Abiodun AjAlA

L-r; Mrs Moses Alade, pastor Moses Alade and pastor Asher emetanjo

L-r: Mr. Tofarati Agusto and prof. Dhikru Yagboyaju

L-r; Hon. Lookman Tijani, and Hon. Biyi lsmail

L-r; Mrs Khadijat Sheidu-Shabi, Mrs rakiya Dhikru-Yagboʻyaju and Asst. Commissioner of police, Bisi Davies

L-r: Alhaja Olubukola Doherty, princess Bopo Ismail and Dr. (Mrs) Yeside Oyetayo

Bride’s parents, Mr. Nathan Johnson and Mrs Taibat Johnson

The Couple, Mr. Oladapo Abayomi Ismail and his wife, Folashade rafiat Adebowale

Mother of the Groom, Mrs Oluwafunmilayo David and retired Chief Judge of edo State, Honourable Lord Justice esther edigin

L-r; Hajiya rakiya Othman, Hajiya Aisha Othman- Zubairu and Alhaji lbrahim Zubairu

L-r; weyinmi Inobeme and Dr. emiola Agabalogun.

L-r; Khadijat Agusto, Mohammed Zubairu and Bola Olugboye

L-r; Giuseppe Miretto, Tarah ernest and Hailey Brown.

L-r: Michelle ehiriodo, Folakemi Ismail, Bidemi Adebowale, Zina Adegbuyi, and Khadija M-williams.

L-r Chief (Mrs.) Yinka Fakeye and Ms. Arinola Olumide

L-r; pastor Mrs Beatrice Gbadebo and Misan ereku.

L-r; Ms Adedoyin Adenuga, Alhaja ronke raji and Ms Bose Ogunlade.

Cross section of foreign friends of the couple.

Mrs Funto Agusto

L-r rahmat Oduwole, Maryam Binji, Zainab Kazaure

pastor Lola Alakija

Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394

Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

Nancy Isime: I’m Fulfilled Living My Purpose Every Day, Touching Lives

Last Easter, Nancy Isime was among the star-studded cast at a film premiere. Incidentally, a week later, the delectable actress, TV host, and model lit up the stage as the first solo female host of a music award ceremony. Nancy has worked her way up as one of the most sought-after celebrities in the industry. She discussed her career path with Ferdinand Ekechukwu. Excerpts;

YouhavedonesowellasaTV host and then as an actress withinaspaceoftime,were thesedeliberatelywhatyou set out to be? What was your career dream job? It wasn’t deliberate. I always wanted to work nine to five and just be in the corporate world somewhere. At one point, I wanted to be a social worker, at another, a pilot, a geologist, surgeon, even. But I feel like the career path that I’m on right now is my destiny. I just had to watch it unravel. And I’m beyond thankful to God for bringing me on this path because I’m truly fulfilled and living my purpose every single day and its touching lives and it’s impacting so many people around the world. I’m beyond happy to be on this path.

You have had a path with pageantry to fashionshootsandtocommercialmodeling. Inwhatwaysdidthoseprepareyouforlife on screen?

Definitely, pageantry and modeling are as

challenging as acting. It involves going through an audition phase and getting chosen before finally making it in the industry. It helps me have a resilient mind. It taught me that I have to work for everything because even as a model, you have to audition for every single job you get. So doing that and coming into the acting industry, nothing was really different for me. I’m very thankful for my modeling and pageantry days. Pageantry was fun. I made first runner and second runner ups and even won.

What determines the script you accept?

Well, the story. I understand that it could look like the same story but with a difference here and there but I’m always interested in what the story is driving at.

So,whichofyournumerousrolesdoyou consider your best, worst so far?

No worse. Only the best, and every role I’ve played has been a blessing one way or the other. Nothing screams best or worst. I feel like every opportunity I get as an actor

to play someone else’s life or someone else’s story is definitely in my best category.

Weunderstandthattalentisimportanttoa successfulactingcareer;inNollywood,itseems there is emphasis on physical appearance. What do you think?

I don’t think there’s emphasis on that. There’s a look for every role. And that’s nobody but the viewers’ fault. But I don’t think there’s a specific attention paid to looks. Maybe people just tend to be more attracted to fine boys, and fine girls. But I think more attention is paid to the talent.

Wastheresomeonethatyoulookedupto as a role model?

I honestly didn’t have a role model until much later, but my very first role model that I can remember was my mum. I loved her so much, but she died when I was five. I’d read her books and diaries, and I could tell she was a good person. And then I met my aunt, who was such a kind woman. She was the first person apart from my mum who taught

me kindness. She was my second role model. However, career-wise, it has to be Oprah – Oprah and Beyonce. I just love their work ethic and how dedicated they are. Of course, in Nigeria are resilient Mo Abudu, and Funke Akindele. I could go on and on but these women are top on my list.

What’s a typical day like for you?

A typical day for me is: wake up, meditate, pray, workout, go to work, whatever work that is for the day: either hosting or acting; do some executive/producer work on my show, the Nancy Isime Show. Then return home, meditate some more, get on my phone and get the day’s work over with, then sleep.

Epic Drama ‘Adunni Ogidan Bírin’ Premiered

Award-winning actress and filmmaker, Funmi Ogidan-Bello, recently hosted the premiere of her new film ‘Adunni Ogidan Bírin’ at the Silverbird Galleria, Victoria Island, Lagos. The premiere event attracted iconic figures, celebrity guests, the cast and crew, with a live traditional music performance adding glamour to the occasion. From the captivating cultural performances and appearances by top Nollywood veterans, such as Saidi Balogun, Patrick Doyle, Afeez Oyetoro, Odunlade Adekola, Lateef Adedimeji, Sola Kosoko, and Nancy Isime, the event made an impression on all who were excited to witness the screening - in two separate halls!

The presence of prominent Nigerian artist, Nike Davies-Okundaye was awe-inspiring, alongside other personalities who graced the occasion. It was a celebration of storytelling, culture, fashion and star power. As the curtain call, echoes of applause and excitement filled the hall, signaling another remarkable moment in Nigerian theatre with the premiere.

Beyond the excitement, it marks a significant milestone in Nollywood for its thought-provoking and well-scripted piece of contemporary epic drama. Owing to its delivery in both Yoruba and English, this film blends powerful storytelling with cultural depth. The film in its opening scenes establishes the plot, such that grips the audience

with anticipation.

The title follows the story of Adunni (Funmi Ogidan-Bello), a courageous woman-fighter who finds herself trapped in a land oppressed by a ruthless King. Fearless and fuelled by an unyielding desire to free her people, she rises up to lead a fight and challenge a system built on fear and corruption and restore justice to her community.

Set in Agbajo, a fictional representation of pre-independence society, cocoa crops provide mainstay and livelihood. But instead of being a blessing, it turns out a curse as the people are left to struggle in tears and blood to redeem their natural endowment from a tyrant Kabiesi and his cronies – a district officer, his council of chiefs and loyalists. Already, unrest is brewing. The villagers and the

farmers have gathered. “District officer, my people stand on the brink of losing their livelihood,” an enraged Adunni proclaims in a scene. “Cocoa is our lifeline, our daily bread. Yet we are treated like criminals, slaves, thrown into government farms…”

Playing up their grievances with a chant, an exchange ensued leaving the scene tensed. The protest song continues. Meanwhile, the oloyes want Adunni restricted forcefully. Her overwhelming influence matters. But the district officer, admitting her rights, is mindful of the implication. So a diplomatic approach is sorted to avoid unrest.

Sustained by their complaints, which Adunni projects, their position is clear. They demand justice. “D.O let me explain to you the pains of these farmers and what their song means,” she said. “The farmer that plants the cocoa must

Cobhams Asuquo Set to Thrill Fans with ’Songs and Stories’

It promises to be one-of-a-kind musical experience and celebration as renowned Nigerian music producer, singer/songwriter, Cobhams Asuquo takes the stage for an exclusive concert, on May 4, 2025 at Alliance Française, Lagos.

With a set designed to create an intimate connection between the artist and the audi-

ence, the event, which promises to be an unforgettable night of live music, will showcase Cobhams’ rich musical catalogue, blending soul, Afrobeat, and pop influences.

Fans can expect a dynamic performance with some of his greatest hits, as well as new material from his upcoming projects and the hilarious, adventurous and little known facts and stories about his songs and musical journey. This event which is a collaboration

between Cobhams and Wema Bank dubbed “Wema Bank Songs and Stories with Cobhams Asuquo”, is also supported by MTN Nigeria.

“This concert is a special opportunity for me to connect with my fans on a deeper level,” Cobhams says.

“It’s been a while since the last Songs and Stories with Cobhams Asuquo concert, and I’m excited to share this moment with the people who have supported me throughout my journey. It’s going to be a night to remember!”

reap the cocoa. While reaping it, they expect to make money from it. But that is not the case at the moment. What do we do about that?”

Supported by two other women, Romoke (Nancy Isime), Abegbe (Sola Kosoko), Adunni stands protest against a regime steeped in corruption and tyranny. The protest broke out when Yewande (Iyabo Ojo), in an act of self-defense, after being arrested carrying the produce, fatally shoots a policeman attempting to rape her. Her swift incarceration sparks outrage, and her fiancé, Olawale (Lateef Adedimeji), becomes a fugitive, determined to rescue the woman he loves. As Olawale’s escape efforts are thwarted, tragedy strikes when Ogungbenro (Afeez Oyetoro) fires a fatal shot, further entrenching the tyrannical rule of the King (Patrick Doyle) and the district officer.

Caught between her loyalty to the cause and her love for her slain husband, whose corpse was seized, Romoke faces a harrowing choice alongside her friends. With the fate of their people and families hanging in the balance, they must decide how far they are willing to go to challenge the tyranny that threatens to consume them all.

It’s an interesting story reminiscent of the good-old cinema era, exploring sub-themes of trust, betrayal and love. ‘Adunni Ogidan Bírin’ weaves emotion and feminine power which made it more engaging. The film truly challenges the audience to look beyond the nostalgia elicited. It is packed with powerful performances, evocative settings and detailed cinematography that made it richer.

Ferdinand ekechukwu

Ferdinand ekechukwu

Isime

Some of the cast and crew of Adunni Ogidan Bírin at the premiere

Cobhams

CBEX: Lessons for Investors, Regulators

The recently crashed cryptocurrency trading platform, Crypto Bridge Exchange Smart-Treasures, better known as CBEX, has opened a new wave of discussion around Ponzi schemes in West Africa’s largest economy.

Since 2016, Nigerians have lost approximately N5 trillion to Ponzi schemes that often promise unrealistic investment returns. The most recent, CBEX, following its collapse, made off with over N1 trillion of Nigerians’ hard-earned money, triggering wailing and mourning across the country by its subcribers.

This is not the first time Nigerians have fallen prey to Ponzi scheme, the Mavrodi Mundial Movement (MMM) of 2016, which ripped Nigerians of not less than N18 billion, is still fresh in the memory. It does not stop at that, others, including Ultimate Cycler, Twinkas and, Red King Chinmark Group, amongst others have also had their own share of the country’s wealth base.

As usual, these platforms failed, provoking widespread outcry from losing investors. However, in no time, the matter goes under the carpet, the unscrupulous promoters strategize on to the next move. This has been the circle in the country.

Financial analysts reckon that greed, social pressure, social proof and possibly, financial ignorance mostly cause investors to ignore suspicious signs that should ordinarily be a turn-off.

An anti-fraud expert, Prof. Godwin Oyedokun said, “Warning signs like high returns with little or no risk, pressure to invest, no tangible product, absence of legal protection, and unregistered professionals have always accompanied most Ponzi schemes, yet, they thrive.”

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) had earlier warned against dealing with unregistered trading platforms, citing the newly enacted Investments and Securities Act 2025.

“By this Act, it is an offence in Nigeria for any entity that is not registered by the commission to carry out the business of online foreign exchange trading platforms or related services, “SEC had stated.

Continuous attraction to this scheme, despite their regrettable end, has since raised concerns from financial pundits who highlighted key lessons for investors and regulators to take away.

Public Finance, expert, Prof. Chiwuike Uba, alongside Oyedokun are among those who shared some lessons for investors below:

Due Diligence

Always research and understand an investment platform thoroughly. Check for the company’s history, reviews from other investors as well as

OTH er Bu SIN e SS STO r I e S

regulatory compliance. CBEX operated without approval from SEC and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), making it illegal. Regulatory registration ensures transparency and accountability. If a platform is unwilling or unable to provide proof, walk away.

Follow 10–30–60 Investment rule

One major mistakes people make is putting all funds into a single investment. Diversifying across different assets helps mitigate risks and protect against total loss. Avoid investing all your money into one high-risk venture. The 10–30–60 rule prescribes investing 10 percent in speculative investments, 30 percent on moderate-risk, and 60 percent on stable, long-term assets. This strategy reduces the impact of a single investment failure.

Understand Risks of Unregulated Platforms Platforms operating outside formal regulation, like CBEX, present significant risks, including fraud and cyber-attacks. While some platforms claim regulatory ambiguity due to evolving markets, responsible players actively seek compliance.

Risk Assessment

Understand your risk tolerance and the risks associated with specific investments. High returns often come with high risks. Only invest what you can afford to lose.

Avoid Herd Mentality

Many CBEX investors were influenced by peer pressure, online testimonials, or aggressive marketing. Effective investing requires independent research. Always verify the background of platform operators, check for third-party reviews, and avoid platforms that lack transparency or offer vague business models. Use tools like LinkedIn, Google alert, and independent financial blogs

CITN: New Tax Policy Will Streamline Excess Tax Refund, Boost Investor Confidence

The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) has defended items in the new tax bill, affirming that it priortises the interest of business players and overall development.

President and Chairman of Council of CITN, Samuel Agbeluyi particularly lauded the administration for considering a timely and seamless refund of excess tax payment, asserting that this would boost investor confidence, in addition to opening frontiers for lucrative opportunities.

He disabused the impression that the proposed reforms will impose an extra burden of tax

increment, clarifying instead that the effort in actual terms translates to tax reduction and juicy incentives.

Agbeluyi while addressing the press in Lagos, ahead of CITN’s 27th tax conference holding in Abuja, with the themed, ‘Taxation for Development: Policies, Law and Implementation’, said many have failed to appreciate or doubt the good intentions of the reform exercise, largely due to existing trust deficit in government.

He added, “Contrary to popular belief, the government is not simply increasing tax rates. In fact, the proposed reforms include reductions

and meaningful incentives. The company income tax is currently 30 percent, but the proposal in the bill is 27.5 percent.

Even the controversial VAT proposal is being offset by massive incentives.

“Many of these reforms are designed to support business growth and economic sustainability. One of the most impactful changes is also the simplification of the tax refund process. It’s not just a tax reform, it’s about improving the ease of doing business and boosting investor confidence. The reform is one of the best decisions for business owners.”

Talent Development Programme to Bridge Communications Skills’ Gap

The communication industry is facing a critical skills shortage, despite growing demand for highimpact campaigns to reach- dynamic audience.

Lead Consultant at Blanche Aigle Communications, Nene Bejide, declared that widening skills gap poses a significant challenge for industry growth and competitiveness, just as the taste and expectations of clients and consumers are constantly shifting.

More worrisome, according to Bejide, is the disconnect among young media and public relations graduates who struggle to balance academic learning with real-world demands.

Quoting the report, the public relations professional stated that despite 600,000 graduates being churned out yearly, the unemployment rate among degree holders continues to rise, while youth unemployment rate for post-secondary graduates stood at 9 percent as of Q1 2024.

She urged prioritising Investment in training and development programmes, noting that Blanche Aigle is spearheading effort in this regard with its forthcoming Talent Development Program in June, 2025.

“We shall be offering a six-week immersive training to recent graduates towards bridging gap

between classroom theory and industry demands. This initiative supports skills training for youth in Africa, helping graduates transition smoothly into roles within public relations, media, and digital marketing.

“This program is our way of building a pipeline of future-ready professionals. We are not just offering internships, we are offering access, training, and the kind of mentorship that can change the course of a young graduate’s career. We believe in creating room for talent, and that starts by giving them the right tools and opportunities to grow,” she informed.

Nigeria Urged to Leverage Digital Assets to Drive Diversification Goal

The need to maximise local digital assets, amid dwindling Oil revenues and a struggling economy, has been reiterated by the Chief Executive Officer of Quomodo Systems Africa, Oluwole Asalu, who maintained this measure remains the path to prosperity.

Asalu, while addressing the press in Lagos, recently asserted that global shift towards digital economies, presents a pivotal opportunity for Nigeria at this time to mobilise sufficient resources towards effective governance.

He emphasised harnessing the burgeoning local digital economy to expedite national diversification goals, while break away from overdependence on oil output.

Asalu, boasted further that Nigeria’s techsavvy, youthful population and increasing recognition from global tech giants already position its digital sector as a driver of inclusive growth and job creation.

“Nigeria’s overreliance on oil is no longer tenable. As global markets shift towards renewable energy, the urgency to diversify

has never been greater. Technology stands out as the most promising avenue, not merely as a sector, but as an enabler of growth across all facets of the economy,” he explained.

According to him, Nigeria’s tech talent remains the new oil, a renewable resource with the potential for significant returns, if strategically harnessed.

Like India’s successes in information technology services, Asalu want Nigeria to tap into lucrative outsourcing industry to draw foreign investment.

for deeper insights.

Demand Transparency

CBEX operated in secrecy, offering little insight into its management or decision-making. A legitimate investment platform should have clear governance, regular financial reporting, and third-party audits. Before investing, request audited financial statements and full operational disclosures. Avoid platforms that refuse transparency or use complex jargon to hide their operations.

Resist emotional manipulation

Scam platforms often prey on emotional triggers such as urgency or the fear of missing out (FOMO). Don’t make financial decisions based on social pressure or panic. Create a rule to delay high-stakes decisions for at least 48 hours to avoid impulsive choices. During this period, consult a trusted advisor and carefully evaluate the opportunity.

Have an Exit Strategy

Even the best investments can fail. Always have a plan in place for how to exit and mitigate losses. Maintain an emergency fund, limit liabilities, and separate your business capital from speculative investments. Regularly review your portfolio and seek professional advice to ensure your investments align with your financial goals.

Advocate for Stronger Regulation

The scale of the CBEX collapse highlights systemic failures in financial regulation. Beyond protecting yourself, advocate for improved consumer protection laws and more robust enforcement from regulatory bodies. Support initiatives for real-time scam alerts, whistleblowing platforms, and the establishment of an investor protection council to safeguard the financial ecosystem.

Multichoice, Indomie Empower Families with N9m Prize

Multichoice Nigeria and Dufil Prima Foods, makers of Indomie Instant Noodles have supported three families in the country with N9 Million cash to cushion the effects of economic hardship as well as promote family bond and unity.

The gesture was part of Indomie’s Love Bowl initiative, a reality family game show designed to celebrate the powerful bonds between mothers and children.

The beneficiaries, Adekunle,Akinyemi and Oyapidan families emerged the best after weeks of spirited competition to receive N5 million, N2.5 million and N1.5 million respectively. They will also get a one-year supply of Indomie products.Commenting on the gesture, the Group Head of Corporate Communications and Events at Dufil Prima Foods, Temitope Ashiwaju, stated that the initiative now in its second edition, offers value beyond entertainment, to reinforcing attitude as love, teamwork, and family bonding, in alignment with Indomie and Multichoice broader corporate goals.

Ashiwaju said further that the show reflects the company’s core values of love, care, and warmth, resonating deeply with families across the country.

“Indomie Love Bowl isn’t just a game show; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the unique bond between parents and children. We are proud to celebrate and reward families who truly embody the spirit of love and togetherness, values that are deeply woven into the fabric of our brand,” he added.

DG SeC, emomotimi Agama

Borno Development Foundation Charts a Path for Recovery

Samuel Ajayi

On April 23, 2025, a significant milestone in Northern Nigeria’s development landscape quietly unfolded in Abuja with the formal launch of the Borno Development Foundation (BDF). Designed as a non-profit, non-partisan institution, the BDF is emerging as a key platform for driving the long-term socioeconomic renewal of Borno State and, by extension, the broader North-east region. At the heart of the launch is the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) executed between the Foundation and the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), signaling a deliberate step away from crisis-mode development models toward institutionalised, data-driven, and community-anchored solutions.

The launch of the Foundation was the culmination of several years of reflection, planning, and institution-building by leading sons and daughters of Borno. Recognising that piecemeal interventions were no longer sufficient to address the magnitude of the region’s challenges, this important lever of intervention committed itself to creating a platform that could pool resources, expertise, and partnerships in a structured, accountable manner.

From its origins in the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, when the Borno Palliatives Support Project was initiated to deliver relief to thousands of vulnerable families, the BDF has evolved into a more ambitious undertaking - a credible institutional framework capable of coordinating long-term solutions.

The BDF’s vision is to be the preferred, most respected and sustainable non-governmental organisation, recognised for being impactful, and advocating for the intervening in the development of Borno, particularly among the most vulnerable and deprived populations.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Air Marshal Allamin Daggash (Rtd.), Chairman of the Board of Trustees, emphasised the Foundation’s mission-driven ethos.

“Our goal is to create an enduring, credible, and non-partisan platform that can catalyze the transformation of Borno and the wider region,” he said. “The BDF represents the collective commitment of those who believe that the future of our people must be built on a foundation of resilience, self-reliance, and strategic partnerships,” he added.

For the founders of BDF, this meant engaging NESG, not merely as a partner, but as a co-architect in the institutional design process.

“The journey from concept to strategy was shaped in close coordination with NESG’s experts,” Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, Chairman of the Board of Governors, shared. “We are tapping into their capacity, their networks, and their insight — not because we lacked vision, but because we understand the value of building with others who have walked similar paths.”

That kind of clarity is rare in a development ecosystem often fragmented by ego, donor politics, or short-termism. It also speaks to a growing maturity in how Nigeria’s private and civic leaders are beginning to reimagine social impact: less as charity, more as investment. Less as emergency, more as structure. Less as sentiment, more as strategy.

Today, with its formal launch completed, the BDF will

carefully and meticulously begin to operationalize its mandate: supporting healthcare systems, rebuilding education, restoring livelihoods, and strengthening institutions in Borno State. The Foundation is positioning itself as a trusted partner to the people of Borno, to investors, development agencies, and government institutions that recognize the urgency and complexity of the region’s recovery efforts.

The BDF’s leadership architecture reflects its ambition. With Air Marshal Allamin Daggash (Rtd.) serving as Chairman of the Board of Trustees and Mohammed Hayatu-Deen chairing the Board of Governors, the Foundation benefits from the credibility, experience, and networks of highly respected national figures. Their stewardship is intended to anchor the Foundation’s operations in principles of transparency, professionalism, and inclusivity.

The BDF’s conscious decision to walk its journey not alone, but in partnership with one of Nigeria’s most respected think tanks, the NESG, distinguishes its ambitions even further.

The MoU signed between the two organisations sets out a clear framework for collaboration across policy advocacy, institutional development, programme implementation, innovation, and research. At its core is a shared recognition that the scale of the region’s challenges requires more than goodwill or political rhetoric. It demands structure, knowledge and strategic alliances.

Mr. Olaniyi Yusuf, Chairman of the NESG, articulated the importance of this partnership during the signing ceremony.

“Borno’s recovery and resurgence are crucial to the stability and prosperity of Nigeria as a whole. The NESG is proud to work alongside the BDF to deliver structured, evidence-based solutions that empower communities and rebuild economic foundations,” Yusuf stated.

Under the terms of the MoU, NESG will work with BDF to develop operational frameworks, strengthen governance systems, and guide the Foundation through the early complexities of institutional growth. The aim is to ensure that BDF does not simply become another temporary initiative, but a resilient enduring vehicle capable of delivering results — across education, health, livelihoods, and community development — long after donor fatigue or media attention has faded.

NESG’s CEO, Dr. Tayo Aduloju, was even more direct in describing the weight of the partnership: “The BDF’s approach aligns perfectly with our belief that sustainable progress must be locally owned, institutionally driven, and professionally managed,” Aduloju said. “Together, we are committed to ensuring that this Foundation not only succeeds but sets a benchmark for development practice in complex environments.”

The relationship goes beyond advisory. The MoU between the BDF and the NESG provides for the co-convening of the Annual Northern Economic Summit, a platform expected to become the most influential regional forum for economic dialogue, investment, and policy alignment in Northern Nigeria. The Summit, set to debut later in 2025, will bring together state governments, federal agencies, private sector players, development partners, and community leaders — not

for ceremonial speeches, but for coordinated action.

The BDF’s strategy for the immediate future focuses on consolidating its governance structure, mobilizing domestic and international resources, and executing a set of catalytic programmes that demonstrate impact and build public trust. Among its early priorities are the establishment of a Knowledge and Resource Centre to support data-driven interventions, the onboarding of vetted implementing partners, and the design of community engagement mechanisms that will ensure citizen participation in development initiatives.

While the BDF’s vision is ambitious, its leadership remains realistic about the complex environment in which it will operate. Years of conflict, displacement, and underinvestment have created deep structural problems that will not be solved overnight. Yet the strategic patience embedded in the BDF-NESG MoU is part of what gives the initiative its credibility.

With this partnership, both BDF and NESG are also sending a message to the wider public sector: that institutions must learn to listen, partner, and adapt. And that the time has come for state governments to see organisations like BDF not as rivals, but as collaborators in a shared mission.

As Northern Nigeria continues to grapple with the legacy of conflict, weak institutions, and systemic underinvestment, partnerships like this offer a new kind of roadmap — one built not on dependency, but on deliberate design.

The Foundation is committed to adopting a flexible, adaptive approach that builds on early successes, learns from challenges, and maintains a clear focus on long-term impact. As it moves forward, the BDF will continue to seek partnerships with credible local and international actors, recognizing that no single institution can meet the scale of the needs alone.

L-R: Head of Legal Department; Standards Organisation of Nigeria(SON); Engr. James Zwawua; Assistant Director and Head of Operation Inspectorate Compliance Directorate(ICD); Engr Dona Ogbozor; Cutting of the Tyre; Mr. Aje Boluwaji; Chief Standard Officer; Adamu Ijai Pur; Head of Department (ICD); Engr. Joseph Ubaja; Special Adviser to DG on Technical Affairs Represent Director General; Mr. Pius Manji Lawan; Director; Product Certification Directorate[PCD); Engr. Enebi Onucheyo; and Head Legal Lagos Operations; Barrister Maureen Nnabu-Okeke during the SON destruction exercise for Substandard products that failed baseline tests as part of its Market Sanitization efforts held in Lagos… yesterday.; PHOTO SUNDAY ADIGUN

L-R: Representative of Alhaji Umaru Adamu Sanda, OON, the Gangwari of Ganye; ACG Mohammed Kabir representing Ibrahim Goni, Conservator-General of the National Park Service, and Commissioner for Women’s Affairs, Adamawa State, Nedo Kafulto during the Trade Fair for Women’s Savings and Loan Groups and commissioning of Women’s Centre built by ANI Foundation in Toungo, Adamawa State

L-R: Sons of the Former Judge of Supreme Court; Mr Adebayo Oguntade; Mr George Oguntade Jrn (San); Former Justice of The Supreme Court of Nigeria and Founder Wiseview Legal Consultancy Firm; Hon. Justice George Oguntade; Diocesan Bishop of Lagos Mainland; Rt Rev Akinpelu Johnson; Daughter And Managing Partners; Wiseview Legal Consultancy; Mrs Abosede Oworu; Mr Gbenga Ajala; and Dr Adeola Ayorinde; at a Special Thanksgiving Service Commemorating the 15Th Anniversary of the Legal Firm in Lagos…Yesterday

Hayatu-Deen (left) and Daggash speaking at the formal launch of the BDF and signing of an MoU between the BDF and NESG for the socio-economic renewal of Borno State and by extension, the broader North-east region

Mathias Anohu: Ife Okija Departs in a Blaze of Glory

“You cannot plant greatness as you plant yams or maize. Who ever planted an iroko tree — the greatest tree in the forest? You may collect all the iroko seeds in the world, open the soil and put them there. It will be in vain. The great tree chooses where to grow and we find it there, so it is with the greatness in men,”

Chinua Achebe, No Longer at Ease, 1960.

Truly great men, as the Igbo saying rightly points out, are like the Iroko – they are planted only by God where and when he chooses.

So, it was with Chief Mathias Chidi Anohu, Ife Okija. Born to Anohu Nzomiwu and Mgbeke Ugboego Onwudiegwu

Anohu of Umuezedam village, Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State on April 24, 1940, Ife Okija attended St. Mary’s Primary School, Okija, from 1947 to 1953, emerging with a Distinction in the First School Leaving Certificate examination.

Thereafter, he proceeded to the highly prestigious Christ the King College (CKC), Onitsha, for his secondary education in 1954 and passed in Division One in the West African School Certificate (WASC) examination in 1958. In 1959, he gained admission into the Nigerian College of Arts, Science and Technology, now part of the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus.

He graduated in 1961. Like Alfred Lord Tennyson’s Ulysses, who follows knowledge like a sinking star, young Mathias gained admission into the University of Ife, Ile-Ife, (currently known as Obafemi Awolowo University) to study Pharmacy in 1962 as one of the foundation students, ultimately graduating as a pharmacist in 1965.

All through his life, he did not relent in seeking and imparting knowledge as well as probing existing theories. Some of his professional presentations include “Drug Abuse in Nigeria,” presented in 1975, “Administration of Essential Drugs in Anambra State,” presented in 1987 and “Importance of Education in National Development,” presented in 1999.

The gold fish has no hiding place. “Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men,” says the Holy Book. Chief Anohu was not just a career civil servant from 1965-2000, it was a glorious 35-year career that traversed the General Hospitals in Arochukwu, Onitsha, Enugu-Ukwu, and Nnewi and also rising to the peak of the service.

As a result of his professionalism and commitment to public administration, hard work, honesty, and service to God and humanity, he was appointed Director-General and posted to the Ministry of Education and Youth Development in 1997. He acquitted himself so creditably that he was subsequently appointment as Permanent Secretary in 1998 by Group Captain Rufai Garba, former Military Administrator of Anambra State. By that, he became the first Nigerian Pharmacist to be appointed Permanent Secretary.

The Holy Book teaches that by truth a nation is established and Chief Anohu took this to heart. He was self-sworn to uphold the truth and lived in such a way that those who involved themselves in shady deals or cover ups ensured that they kept them as far away from him as they could.

His outstanding integrity came to bear during the visit by the then Chairman of the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF) to Anambra State in 1997 to inspect the state of the hospitals and their medical equipment.

Whereas the powers that be wanted the PTF Chairman to believe that all the funds meant for the procurement of

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medications and medical equipment had been properly utilized, Ife Okija knew otherwise and spoke up without a shred of fear or favor.

He had expected a backlash and was ready for the consequences, but surprisingly, this honest and fearless admission benefited Anambra State and made it possible for its hospitals to be allocated ample medications and new sets of medical equipment. Also, the military administrator of the state was so moved by his rare integrity and courage that he rewarded him with a promotion. Little wonder, even after his retirement, Chief Anohu was deemed fit to be appointed Commissioner in the Anambra State Civil Service Commission.

Chief Mathias Chidi Anohu was not just a successful professional and public servant, he was equally a successful family man. He wedded Dr. Virgy Akuaroo Okolie, an accomplished lecturer and banker, on December 28, 1968, and their marriage was blessed with six surviving children – two boys and four girls, who have all graduated from universities in Nigeria, the United Kingdom, and USA. Chief Anohu was also blessed with sixteen grandchildren – twelve boys and four girls. Importantly, he strived to imbue in his children all the qualities that he was known for – fearlessness, honesty, dignity of labour, self-confidence, and charity.

He took his Catholic faith seriously and supported the Church in varying capacities. Till he breathed his last, he was not moved by material things. Like Mahatma Gandhi, Chief Anohu detested politics without principle, wealth without work, commerce without morality, pleasure without conscience, education without character, science without humanity, and worship without sacrifice. He loved God and lived for humanity.

Among the Igbo, it is said that a man who refuses to visit his native town in life will ultimately come home in death.

A typical Igbo man, Chief Anohu was very attached to his

home town, Okija, and committed to its development. As a result, he was elected the Secretary General of Okija Progressive Union (OPU), the apex town Union way back in 1974, and in 1989, he was elected the President-General of the Union. During his tenure as President-General, he revolutionized the Kingship of Okija by presiding over the re-drafting of the town’s Constitution. The new Constitution included a major shift in the status quo, leading to the abolition of the hereditary monarchy and the adoption of a rotational Kingship.

Chief Anohu was a member of Ime-Iba Royal Cabinet of Okija, Okija Social Club, and a Special Member of Ihiala Traditional Council. He was a great promoter of the Igbo philosophy of communal development and championed many development projects. He spearheaded the establishment of a General Hospital with Uhuobo community in Okija, the only General Hospital in Ihiala Local Government Area in those days. He assisted the late Engr. Paulinus Amadike and other citizens of Umuohi community in establishing the Girls Secondary School in Okija, providing science equipment for the school. He teamed up with other illustrious sons of Okija to establish a branch of African International Bank in the community. Chief Anohu was involved in the mobilisation of the people for the construction and reconstruction of some rural roads in Okija, contributing both morally and financially to the welfare of Okija people.

He mobilised the people for the electrification of some villages in the community and awarded scholarships to deserving students of Okija to study up to the university level. He also provided water boreholes for the people. It is a thing of joy to note that this noble son of Okija spent all his working years giving back to his community and providing honest and selfless service to fellow Nigerian citizens.

Despite all these, he was concerned about the festering Igweship tussle in Okija and it was his earnest desire and vision that Okija resolves this soonest. His words: “Okija is a great town and has a lot of developmental potential. It is my wish that the Peace Committee, after proper investigation devoid of sentiment, and noting that Okija people gave the Ezeship/Igweship stool to Ubahuduru in the 1950s when Eze/Igwe was introduced in Okija by the then Eastern Nigerian government, will find a lasting solution to the Igweship problem, which has stalled progress in the town to enable the community to move forward.” This, no doubt, will be the greatest tribute to a man, who gave his all serving his community.

When the ekwe (wooden drum) sounds, it hails a man to the proportion of his exploits and contributions to the prosperity of the community. It is also a saying among Ndigbo that if a man does well in sharing the communal meat, he is given future opportunities and higher responsibilities. Thus, Chief Anohu’s contributions to the society have been well acknowledged and rewarded in various ways.

In 1991, he was honoured with the chieftaincy title, “Ife Okija”, the Light of Okija. In 1994, he was duly recognized as a Fellow of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (FPSN) and was appointed Chairman of the State Drug Abuse and Control Committee 1996. He was the Special Representative of the UNICEF Essential Drug Programme in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, in 1989.

Goodnight, Ife Okija.

Anohu writes from Ubahu Okija

Role of Diet in Preventing, Managing Chronic Diseases

Innocent Megbolu

Across Africa, discussions about healthcare often centre on hospital infrastructure, pharmaceuticals, and medical interventions. Yet, a growing wave of health experts are shifting the focus to an overlooked solution: the food on our plates. Could the key to preventing and managing chronic diseases lie in embracing traditional African diets?

This exploration delves into the profound health benefits of heritage diets in Nigeria and across Africa, highlighting their potential to combat the rising tide of non-communicable diseases through nutrition rather than medication.

It was a 2019 report by the World Health Organisation (WHO) that showed that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease now account for nearly 29 per cent of deaths in Nigeria. This rise is driven by poor dietary habits—excess consumption of processed foods, high sugar intake, and inadequate consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Additionally, a 2023 Global Nutrition Report highlights that urbanisation is shifting dietary habits, leading to a rise in fast food consumption and processed foods across Africa. What was once considered a health burden of wealthier nations is now an escalating crisis on the continent, fueled by changing food systems and lifestyles.

Despite overwhelming evidence, nutrition remains sidelined in mainstream healthcare discussions. The question is no longer whether food plays a role in health—it is how soon African healthcare systems will recognise nutrition as a fundamental tool for disease prevention and management.

The role of diet in health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease is not incidental—it is central. A 2023 study published in the African Journal of Public Health found that Nigerians who consume predominantly processed, high-sodium, high-sugar diets are twice as likely to develop hypertension as those who follow a diet rich in vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Similarly, research from the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC 2024) estimates that approximately 8 million Nigerians live with type 2 diabetes, based on a 7.0 per cent prevalence rate from a 2024 systematic review.

Globally, there is increasing recognition of the role food plays in healthcare. From the Mediterranean diet’s impact on heart health to plant-based interventions for diabetes management, scientific studies continue to highlight the power of nutrition as medicine. Yet, African healthcare systems are slow to integrate these findings into policy and practice.

Recognising the urgent need for action, governments, healthcare institutions, and private sector players are beginning to invest in nutrition-focused health initiatives. Educational campaigns, dietary guidelines, and food policies are being developed to encourage healthier eating habits, while medical practitioners are integrating nutrition counseling into patient care. From farm-to-table initiatives that promote organic food consumption to technology-driven nutrition tracking tools, innovative solutions are emerging to tackle this public health challenge.

One initiative making notable strides in advancing nutrition-based healthcare is WHX Lagos and WHX Labs Lagos, formerly known as Medic West Africa and Medlab West Africa. As a premier platform dedicated to driving conversations around health, wellness, and nutrition, WHX Lagos brings together medical professionals, policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders to explore innovative approaches to nutrition-focused healthcare. By fostering collaborations and knowledge-sharing, WHX Lagos is accelerating the shift towards preventive healthcare models that place diet at the heart of chronic disease management.

Taking place from June 2 to 4, 2025, at the Landmark Centre in Lagos, Nigeria, WHX Lagos marks a strategic rebranding from Medic West Africa and Medlab West Africa into a broader, more comprehensive healthcare expo. The 2025 edition is expected to welcome over 7,000 healthcare and laboratory professionals and 500 exhibitors from more than 40 countries, creating a global stage for advancing discussions on nutrition-based disease prevention and other pressing healthcare issues.

As global healthcare priorities continue to evolve, the integration of nutrition into healthcare strategies is essential for reducing the burden of chronic diseases. WHX Lagos and WHX Labs Lagos 2025 stand at the forefront of this movement, championing nutrition as a powerful tool for disease prevention and health optimisation. By bridging the gap between research, industry, and public awareness, the event is paving the way for a healthier future—one where food is not just sustenance but medicine.

Anohu

Adewale Adeniyi: Driving Efficiency at Nigeria Customs Service

Donatus Eleko

In an era when global trade dynamics are evolving, the role of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has become increasingly critical.

The NCS, under the leadership of Comptroller General Adewale Adeniyi, is currently undergoing a significant transformation aimed at enhancing efficiency, boosting revenue generation, and facilitating legitimate trade.

Adeniyi’s appointment has ushered in a renewed focus on modernisation, technology adoption, and strategic collaborations to reposition the NCS as a key driver of Nigeria’s economic growth and a vital player in international trade.

This has spurred the recent waves of interceptions of contraband in the country.

For instance, the NCS disclosed during the week that it intercepted 11 containers carrying unregistered sex drugs, expired foodstuffs, and other contraband worth N921bn at Apapa Ports from January and “to date”.

Addressing journalists while showcasing the seized containers in Apapa, Adeniyi stated that the 11 containers comprised five 40-foot containers, two 20-foot containers, and four additional seizures of loosely concealed contraband items, with a total duty paid value of N921 million.

He explained that out of the 11 seized containers, five were carrying sex-enhancement drugs, adding that the items constituted a clear danger to public health with the potential to cause significant mortality if permitted to infiltrate the domestic markets.

Giving details of the seizures, the CGC explained that the first 40ft container had 89 cartons of unregistered pharmaceutical products, while the second 40ft container carried 242 cartons of unregistered pharmaceutical products.

“The third 40ft container had 1,001 cartons and packages of hydra-sildenafil citrate tablets. These are also lacking requisite NAFDAC registrations. The other 40ft container had 1,400 packages of chest and lungs beta plus big booty tablets, also unregistered. The fifth 40ft container had 805 packages of unregistered products.

“This one was falsely declared as a cosmetic powder. Then we also have a 20-foot container, which has expired margarine products. We have another 20ft container which has expired margarine products, 60 units of warrior drones,” Adeniyi explained.

He emphasised that the intercepted drones loaded in one of the containers with a duty paid value of N15.9bn lacked the End User Certificate from the Office of the National Security Adviser.

“We also intercepted another 53 units of different helicopter drones. These drones were intercepted for lack of an End User Certificate, and they have a duty-paid value of N2.1 million. We have 10 pieces of professional FM transceiver walkie-talkies. These are communication devices evacuated for lack of End-User Certificates,” he said.

Adeniyi warned that the disturbing trend in the importation of unregulated sexual performance drugs poses serious health risks, including potential cardiovascular complications and harmful drug interactions when used without proper medical supervision.

He raised the alarm over what he described as a sophisticated pattern of wrong declaration, where importers deliberately classify pharmaceuticals as general merchandise or cosmetics.

He said the service is working with critical regulatory agencies, including but not limited to NAFDAC, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, and the Office of the National Security Advisor.

“This collaboration operates under established Memoranda of Understanding and joint operational frameworks that have demonstrably enhanced our enforcement capacities.

“As documented in our joint operational report of January 2025, the nexus between unregistered pharmaceuticals, controlled substances, and national security infrastructures continues to present a multi-dimensional threat matrix to our sovereignty,” he said.

In 2024, the NCS also recorded significant progress in its enforcement activities as a total of 3,555 seizures were made in wildlife items, arms and ammunition, narcotics, and pharmaceutical products. The total value of the seizures, based on the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) value amounted to N28.46 billion, with a total duty of N6.83 billion.

Clearly, the NCS under Adeniyi, has undergone rebirth and transformation in terms of efficiency and trade facilitation. Like many agencies of the federal government, the NCS in the last few years had lost focus and needed massive reforms. There were even reports of sundry misbehavior by men of the NCS then.

That was why Adeniyi’s appointment was seen as a major move to resuscitate the service after several years of inept leadership.

Adeniyi grew through the ranks across different commands and possesses years of experience in customs administration covering strategic and operational responsibilities. He has a deep understanding of the complex and constantly evolving international trade landscape.

He has strong command of Customs regulations, laws, and procedures as well as the ability to navigate and adapt to changing policies and regulations. He has demonstrated excellent communication and leadership skills responsible for leading teams of customs officials, working closely with stakeholders across a variety of industries.

Since his assumption of office, Adeniyi has built strong relationships with stakeholders and collaborated effectively to ensure efficient and effective movement of goods across

Bullying: Anathema in 21st Century

The public school system in Nigeria has spun a narrative: bullying, overcrowding, inadequacies of amenities, badly implemented policies, and the poor attitude of staff and students.

“Behind the Gossamer Bar,” is an attempt to project the reality through the eyes of the protagonist: George Oyinbrakemi Horsfall, a 9-year-old from a dysfunctional family with dynamics commonplace in the 21st century: finance, career, gender sensitivity, class, power, environmental complexities, education, parenting.

Co-authored with Emmanuel Frank-Hanachor, who turned up amazing research for the subject matter, Cyan Frank-Hanachor admits that her books are an introspection on societal values and vices.

“The controversial ResearchGate’s claim of a 78 percent prevalence of bullying in Nigerian schools, from my experience, is extremely conservative.”

The setting of “Behind the Gossamer Bar” is not accidental. “Environmental awareness education is the bedrock of our existence, our books bear us out.”

This is her third book and first published full-length novel.

“An extended visit with the peoples of the Niger Delta convinced us of the need to coalesce our perceptions to call

attention to the misconceptions concocted to serve the needs of a select few. We digress. As soon as certain issues are redressed, we will be emboldened to share our experiences in the region.”

Like all her books, “Twinkling Shards, Wrinkles in the Puddle, Behind the Gossamer Bar” is graded, 8+.

The writer of prose and poetry averred that, “The reading culture has improved in the past 20 years but unfortunately, there is still a deficit in reading for pleasure, which we intend to address by bringing the library close to the inner-city.

“The ‘Papyrus Club’ is an initiative of Cyan’s Orb, our PR and publishing outfit.” ‘Papyrus Club, an initiative that began in 2002, in Isolo Local Government Area of Lagos State, is set to engage the government of Lagos and Edo States in a campaign to plant the community-based library service. Making an impassioned appeal: “We are open and ready to embark on a nationwide campaign to establish this laudable project,” the promoters said.

“Behind the Gossamer Bar” is a must-read for the moderne family. The 387-page book is a veritable tool for every child and parent with a preteen off to school for the very first time,” she added.

Cyan Frank-Hanachor insists that: “Bullying is reprehensible. We must speak out for the innocent. We must

borders, over the course of his career. He has a keen eye for details and ability to identify potential risks and areas of non-compliance. This is evident in effective risk management strategies, guidance and support developed and implemented for his teams to ensure that all customs procedures are followed accurately and efficiently.

That was why Adeniyi, hit the ground running, as he left no one in doubt that he was very conscious of the arduous and enormous task of repositioning and refocusing the already balkanised service.

Adeniyi has remained focused on safeguarding the nation’s borders against economic sabotage while boosting revenue and facilitating seamless trade relations between importers and exporters, ultimately supporting economic growth and stability for Nigeria. He has also utilised his exceptional acumen and strategic insight to elevate this crucial law enforcement agency.

As part of its modernisaton drive, the NCS under Adeniyi, introduced the Customs Trade Modernization Project (TMP), expected to reduce revenue leakages by 20 per cent once fully implemented.

The primary aim of the project is to provide a comprehensive solution to the NCS’s administrative and operational functions and ensure more effective tariff collection, secure borders, combat smuggling, and manage data on goods moving across Nigerian borders.

The TMP is expected to establish the technology infrastructure needed for the project, which would be implemented across all NCS facilities.

She added that the initiative will also include capacitybuilding efforts across the organization, ensuring sustainable implementation within the NCS.

The NCS’s flagship reform is the Customs Trade Modernization Project (TMP), launched in 2022. This ambitious initiative aims to generate $250 billion in revenue for the federal government upon full implementation. Inaugurated in June 2023, TMP not only promises significant revenue growth but also substantial job creation, as the current workforce may require expansion to meet future demands.

In 2024, the NCS unveiled the Time Release Study (TRS), which has helped provide empirical data to assess and improve the efficiency of its operations. The TRS is a strategic tool developed by the World Customs Organisation that measures the time taken for the clearance and release of goods, identifying bottlenecks in the trade flow process. By addressing these inefficiencies, the NCS has enhanced the speed and effectiveness of its operations, improving service delivery for traders.

Likewise, the NCS introduced the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) program that aligns with WCO standards. The AEO initiative recognises compliant entities involved in the international movement of goods, such as manufacturers, importers, exporters, customs brokers, and logistics operators. By facilitating seamless trade for certified operators, the program has strengthened the supply chain and improved security.

Looking ahead, the NCS under Adeniyi is committed to aligning its strategies with national economic objectives and the evolving global trading landscape. The focus remains to fully leverage technology, strengthen collaboration, and implementing further reforms to create a more efficient, transparent, and effective customs service that contributes significantly to Nigeria’s economic prosperity and global trade competitiveness. While challenges such as smuggling, corruption, and infrastructure limitations persist, the Customs service under the leadership of Adeniyi and the ongoing reforms offer a promising outlook for the Nigeria Customs Service to reach its full potential as a modern and efficient agency.

protect the vulnerable. As a victim, I am joining the fight. We welcome stakeholders onboard as we attempt to approach the National Assembly to decisively check the fatality from bullying, the ugliness of it not just in the school, but in those areas where it continues to fester due to society’s complacency at a century old malevolence, even now.”

“Behind the Gossamer Bar”is available as an e-book for a limited period.To preorder: behindthegossamer@ gmail.com, cyansorb@gmail.com; +2348134283539,

Adeniyi

Frank-Hanachor

•Tourism •Arts&Culture

Hannatu Musawa:

Charles Ajunwa • 08064268968 • ajunwacharles@gmail.com

We Want to Use Culture, Tourism to Reposition Nigeria

The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, after a tour of facilities at the Ikogosi Warm Springs and Conference Centre in Ekiti State and the inauguration of the presidential villa at the facility, speaks on the reason for the partnership entered into with Cavista Holdings on Destination 2030, among other issues. Charles Ajunwa brings the excerpts:

You had an extensive tour of theIkogosiWarmSprings Resort and Conference Centre after which, you inauguratedthePresidential Villa in theVIPVilla. Can yougiveusyourimpression about this new offering and the facilities in the resort?

Well, my mind was completely blown away. You know, I’ve heard of Ikogosi and I’ve heard of the magical, mythical sort of feelings and experiences that you have in Ikogosi. But I think as much as anyone tries to tell you, you don’t really have that full experience of what it is here in Ikogosi till you come. You know, I didn’t believe that there was anywhere in Nigeria that had this kind of magic. This space is absolutely magic. The new presidential villa that we’ve just commissioned, I mean, anywhere you go in the world, this is what you are going to find. What I have to say is, what I noticed all the way around is the attention to details that Cavista Holdings and all the people have played here to ensure that they have delivered something that is completely a global standard. This is really the place when you talk about tourism assets in Nigeria, we all know that Nigeria has so many beautiful tourism assets. But I think what they have done here in Ikogosi is they have completely raised the bar in terms of what Nigeria has to offer. And we really have to key in to ensure that Ikogosi not only is able to be maintained, but it’s also upscaled and is sustained for the benefits of the whole not only of Ekiti State, not only of the tourism industry, but Nigeria as a whole.

You just told us about what you have seen here and that Nigeria has a lot of tourist attractions.What is your ministry doing? And what is the master plan for promotionofdomestictourisminNigeria?

I think the best way to really add onto the template of tourism and to promote tourism for me is to focus on domestic tourism. There are so many Nigerians that really want to experience Nigeria from North, South, East and West. Everywhere you go in Nigeria is something different. One of the initiatives that my ministry is doing, it has come up with the Renewed Hope, Cultural, Creative and Tourism programme that Mr. President, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has asked us to put in every State. He wants every State to tell the story of their unique peculiarity through the eyes of culture, through the eyes of tourism and through the eyes of creativity. So, what we have done as a federal government is try to reach out and do a handshake with every State. So every State will tell us what they want us to collaborate on that will build on that tourism asset. And my hope is that we will now use that as a template to ensure that there’s domestic tourism so every state will have something to build on. Like I said, just to rally back to the first question that I answered, I think what they have done here in Ikogosi is really a template that can be used all over the country. What has been done here is something that can be done anywhere in the developed world. So if we can look at this template and look at the attention that they’ve done, and I must say one of the great things that I’ve seen that they have done in terms of job creation is to engage the local community. And you know that is very empowering because when you engage a local

community, you give them a sense of ownership as to that edifice that you have. In terms of a sense of ownership, they will also want to protect it. The issues of insecurity, you’re able to sort of mitigate that in one way or another. But our ministry, again, is very intentional in working with the private sector. This is the intention of Mr. President because he wants everything to be sustainable long term. He has asked every one of us to work with the private sector to ensure that we put up all the right infrastructure. What we are going to do here in Ikogosi is to continue working with Cavista Holdings to see how we can really bring traffic into Ikogosi so that we can not only maintain it and sustain it, but we can continue to upscale it.

You mentioned that your ministry and the federal government want to drive traffic into Ikogosi. We understoodyoucameinthroughAkure airport.Now,lookingatthis,partof the thing that sometimes dissuades peoplefromcomingtotheseareais theStateoftheroad.Imean,driving fromLagos,forinstance,theIbadan/ Ife Road down to this place is in a horrible state,and nobody would wanttogothere.Whatdoyouthink the government can do to ensure that the road is good and ensure that traffic is encouraged?

First of all, you’re right. We did come in through Akure, but I must tell you, I enjoyed the drive because I had the experience of watching the locality and the different communities. So, I personally love that I have to drive a long way to get here. But in order for us to be able to deliver places, destinations such as Ikogosi as a holistic tourist destination, not only for domestic tourism, but what I hope will be for global tourism as well, is to ensure

that we put up that infrastructure. Now, when you talk about infrastructure, access has got to be one of the main discussions. I have already started discussions with the state government and, of course, other MDAs, inter-ministerial collaborations, so that we ensure that access to Ikogosi is a lot easier. So when you’re coming in from Lagos, you’re able to fly directly into Ado Ekiti and then you’re able to drive shorter and more seamlessly. Again, it’s really about partnership and collaboration and conversations with other MDAs to ensure that everybody pulls his weight to deliver that destination. This is what I plan to intentionally do with Ikogosi. Nobody has to go out to Nigeria. If you want to go for a retreat, if you want to experience the beauty of nature, I think that is what is the magic mystique about Ikogosi. That attention to detail that we have seen has met a sort of rallying point with nature. This beauty that you see here, is something that we really want to deliver for domestic tourism, for international tourism. One of the strategies that I had, I think in the past, I had said that we as a ministry wanted to adopt is to sell Nigerian tourism to the eyes of the tourist destinations. For example, when you’re going to Cancun, and you’re not necessarily going to Mexico. So before we sell Nigeria as a tourist destination, but you’re able to sell to the global community, Ikogosi as a destination in and of itself, you find that traffic will come into Ikogosi. And as a result of that, we’re able to boost the traffic. I want to thank Mr. President because of his prompting and the mandate that he gave me to ensure that we deliver these tourist destinations. And Ikogosi is really at the top of my intention in terms of delivering one of those first tourist destinations to the global community.

What is the projection of the federal government in the next maybe five or 10 years that this ministry can generate forthegovernmentintermsofinternally generated revenue?

The generation, I feel, is going to be quite a lot because one of the things that Mr. President wants us to do is to use the ministry to number one, have an economic expansion to add to the economic growth of the nation. And with a huge potential in the tourism, creative and cultural sectors, we feel that we can do that. He’s also looking to see that we can add job creation to it. We are working together with Big Win to do a complete deep dive and a proper sort of academic research as to what we really believe the tourism sector can really contribute to the nation by 2030. From the creative economy side, we feel that we can at least contribute a hundred billion dollars if all the modalities are put in place and every single sector is able to pull its weight in terms of putting the right framework in place. I think we can even get higher numbers with that if we’re able to put this structure and the infrastructure, again, I speak of in the tourism sector and use different destinations. I think by 2027, at least with Ikogosi, you’re going to see an upscale because of the partnership that we’re having together with Cavista Holdings and with the state government and with this Renewed Hope cultural, Creative and Tourism project that Mr. President has mandated to ensure that we are able to contribute to the growth of the economy through the tourism sector. We’re going to have the National Tourism Summit, possibly to be hosted here with the NESG. Any hope is to encourage every single government body to do their retreats here. I think we’re going to, as a ministry, be very dogged and intentional in ensuring that we continue to encourage not only the private sector, but just different versions of different sectors in Nigeria and the governments to patronise and to ensure that they also experience the beautiful, warm and cold springs and the magic of Ikogosi.

What is Destination 2030 all about? I’m glad that you spoke about Destination 2030 because when I was up at the balcony at the Presidential Lodge here, I actually thought about Destination 2030 because if you step onto the balcony and you just look onto the right side, you’re going to find an avalanche of beauty, of nature. I mean, it’s absolutely breathtaking. And one of the things that I was saying to my team is the hope of taking images such as what we have seen in Ikogosi and making postcards of it, trying to make merchandise of it. Destination 2030 is one of the core eight initiatives that we have in the Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, where we want to reposition Nigeria in the eyes of the world. We want to use our cultural, creative, and tourism assets because that’s really where the interest is in Nigeria, is that content. And when you talk about that content, our beautiful landscapes, the beaches, some of the beauty of nature in Nigeria adds to that content that you speak of Nigeria. We want to use that to change the mindset of people, is the soft power. That is where our power lies. We want to use that to change the mindset of the global community as to what Nigeria is. You know, part of that story and part of that journey is to use a destination such as lkogosi as a rallying point to bring people into Nigeria so that they can experience and change their mindset as to who we are as a people.

Musawa

Lexus Unveils All-new ES at World Premiere in Shanghai

LEXUS unveiled the all-new ES at its world premiere at the Shanghai Motor Show April 23 - May 2, 2025. A phased rollout across various regions is scheduled to begin in the middle of 2026, according to the automaker.

Launched alongside the flagship LS in 1989, the ES has been a core model in LEXUS, earning global acclaim for its quietness, ride comfort, and spacious interior. It has been sold in over 80 countries and regions worldwide. Since the launch of the RX 400h in 2005, LEXUS has led the way in luxury electrification―consistently pursuing both dynamic performance and environmental responsibility.

In 2024, electrified vehicles accounted for a record-high 52% of global sales. With a continued focus on HEVs, PHEVs, and BEVs, LEXUS will work toward realizing a carbon-neutral society while responding to the evolving needs of diverse customers and markets. LEXUS is committed to delivering a unique brand experience by advancing core vehicle performance through electrification. This movement will drive an engineering focus that redefines the future of mobility while providing services that enrich modern lifestyles. As the latest expression of these commitments, the all-new ES is the second of three new LEXUS BEV models scheduled to debut by March 2026. It catalyzes a product momentum that coincides with a comprehensive reimagining of the LEXUS brand set to be revealed at the Japan Mobility

Show 2025 in October.

The all-new 8th-generation ES stands as a forerunner in LEXUS’s next-generation electrification lineup. Developed under the concept of Experience Elegance and Electrified Sedan, this model aspires to deliver a refined driving experience across every scene―further enhancing quietness and ride comfort while staying in tune with customer needs. In pursuit of carbon neutrality through a multi-pathway approach, both HEV and BEV powertrains are offered to meet a diverse range of mobility demands. The design draws inspiration from the next-generation BEV

concept, LF-ZC, marking a bold evolution in LEXUS design language that begins with the new ES. Deepening the expression of elegance, the design creates a clean, welcoming atmosphere that is uniquely LEXUS. The exterior strikes a delicate balance between intelligent packaging and proportions that highlight the sedan’s inherent beauty―realizing a sleek, flowing silhouette that hints at the emotional driving experience to come. Inside, LEXUS debuts two groundbreaking innovations: the world’s first Responsive Hidden Switches, which seamlessly blends physical controls into the interior for both

functionality and sophistication, and the Sensory Concierge, a LEXUS-first feature that delivers a personalized, immersive cabin experience. Building on its spacious rear-seat design, the new ES enhances comfort and luxury to create a more refined cabin experience. Furthermore, by thoroughly refining the vehicle’s core fundamentals and electrification technologies, the new model aims for a high-level balance between handling that creates a seamless connection between driver and car―offering a level of engagement that inspires the desire to drive endlessly―and ride comfort and cabin quietness that naturally bring a smile to everyone on board. Additionally, the ES integrates next-generation multimedia for enhanced connectivity and convenience, along with the latest LEXUS Safety System+ for advanced safety and peace of mind.

All-New ES Main Features

Pursuing Functional Essence, Dynamic Performance, and Unique Proportions

New sedan proportions that enhance the ES’s signature character while embracing a multi-pathway approach.

A dramatic form designed for aerodynamic excellence, evoking a sense of dynamic performance.

Offers a clean, minimalist interior with a sense of open space and excellent visibility. Inherits the quietness and ride comfort while enhancing driving performance. Delivers premium ride quality through a dedicated platform design and enhanced structural rigidity.

SGX Mobility, Bolt Partner on Green Driving

SGX has announced its partnership with Bolt, one of the world’s leading ride-hailing platforms. The partnership is considered a major milestone in the evolution of Nigeria’s transportation ecosystem and in their collective journey towards a greener, more sustainable future.

According to SGX Mobility Executive, Dr. Dele Awofala, who spoke on ‘Driving the Future: Clean Mobility, Shared Prosperity’, at a press conference to announce the partnership, “At SGX, we believe in creating entrepreneurs, enabling economic prosperity and solving climate change challenges. Our approach to e-mobility isn’t just about replacing combustion engines with electric mobility, it’s about creating a sustainable, affordable, and inclusive system that works for everyone: riders, drivers, investors, and the planet.”

He said, “Nigeria, like much of Africa, stands at a critical point. The transport sector accounts for 28.4% of total GHG emissions in Nigeria, the second-largest contributor after the energy

industries (40.7%). Tricycles and motorcycles represent the largest source of GHG emissions, emitting three times pollution per km than cars. In addition, the cost of petrol fuel has increased by over 200% since May 2023 which is driving a higher cost of transportation for commuters.

“These trends highlight an urgent need for transition away from fossil fuels into sustainable mobility to reduce emissions in line with sustainable development goals.

“E-mobility presents a transformational solution to these big problems at once: it reduces carbon emissions and protects our environment; it lowers the cost of operating tricycle service while creating dignified jobs for thousands of our youth; and builds investor-friendly platforms that offer real returns in real time.

“SGX is deploying electric motorbikes and tricycles tailored for Nigeria’s first and last- mile mobility needs. But we are not stopping there. With intelligent battery swapping hubs spread across cities, we’re tackling the challenge of charging infrastructure head-on-offering speed convenience,

electric-powered Tricycles

and reliability for every driver.”

On the reason SGX chose Bolt, he said, “No one succeeds alone. And in our mission to drive e-mobility across Nigeria and Africa, we knew

we needed the right partner. Bolt brings scale, experience, and global best practices-not just as a technology enabler, but as a deeply invested stakeholder in Africa’s transport future.

Chisco Transport Partners Ghana to Return Victims of Human Trafficking to Nigeria

Chisco Transport Limited recently played a major role in the return to Nigeria of 231 victims - 227 males and four females- of human trafficking from Ghana.

Chisco Transport performed the rescue exercise, in partnership with the Ghanaian Government, by providing luxury vehicles, including long and mini buses, that brought the Nigerian youths who were received at the Lagos office of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), recently.

The Nigerian youths, mainly male, aged between 15 years and 18 years, were accompanied by officials of the Ghanaian government to Lagos.

The victims were received by NAPTIP after their repatriation from Ghana, where they had been held in a suspected human trafficking and cybercrime hub.

Confirming the role his company played in the return from Ghana of the rescued Nigerian youths, Valentine Ogege, Chisco Ghana Country Head, stated that management provided a fleet of air-conditioned luxury buses for the repatriation.

“As the foremost passenger road transport company in Nigeria, we are very glad that we rendered very satisfactory mobility services to the government of Ghana. We are also very happy that we successfully transported the rescued victims to the Nigerian authorities without any incident,“ Ogege stated.

Also commenting, Deacon Pius Etuhu, a veteran transporter who has worked in many luxury bus companies as a station manager, commended Chisco Transport for not only earning the confidence of the Ghanaian government, but also for the prompt return of the youths from Accra to Lagos.

“To me, what Chisco did was more than rendering exemplary transport service across the West Coast of Africa. This is more of a remarkable patriotic and diplomatic gesture. It is a service to the nation

and humanity,” Etuhu said.

According to the Executive Director of Ghana’s Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), Abdulai Bashiru Dapilah, the victims were rescued during a joint operation in Kumasi and Oyarifa, a suburb of Accra.

In a letter addressed to the NAPTIP DirectorGeneral and entitled “Request for Assistance to Screen Suspects of Human Trafficking for Possible Prosecution in Nigeria,” the EOCO boss disclosed

that out of approximately 50 houses within Kumsark Estate, about 30 were being occupied by suspected traffickers and their victims.

“On Thursday, April 17, 2025, EOCO conducted a search operation within the estate, combing 20 houses. A total of 231 Nigerian nationals were found—227 males and four females—aged between 15 and 18 years,” the agency stated.

Receiving the returnees, NAPTIP’s DirectorGeneral, Binta Adamu Bello, said the agency would intensify cross-border collaborations with state and non-state actors to dismantle transnational trafficking syndicates operating across West Africa.

Represented by the Lagos Zonal Commander, Bello lamented the increasing trend of Nigerian youths being trafficked to neighbouring countries for sexual exploitation and cybercrime.

“We are deeply concerned by the emerging trend making Ghana and other West African nations a hub for cybercrime and human trafficking,” she said.

She added that NAPTIP had begun consultations with law enforcement agencies in Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, The Gambia, and other countries to review existing Memoranda of Understanding (MoU), bilateral agreements, and legal frameworks to strengthen cooperation and enhance joint responses.

“We will commence immediate profiling of the returnees to determine their medical condition, health status, skill needs, and other essential variables to provide them with support and post-trauma care,” she said.

lexus

Chisco buses

GLOBAL SOCCER GLOBAL SOCCER

Joe Aribo Lord of the Manor?

ThoughhestartedhisEnglishfootballcareerintheChampionshipandhadoncesankwith SouthamptontoplayintheEnglishsecondtier,butwhatNigeriainternational,JoeAribowouldnot wantagainisanotherlifeintheEFLasSouthamptonwasrelegatedafteroneseasoninthePremier League.However,theonlyclubthathassofarshownseriousinterestintheNigerianisasmall TurkishSuperLigside,Gostepe.ThebigquestionisiftheEuropaCupsilvermedalistwouldwantto beabigfishinasmallpond?

Turkish Super Lig club, Gostepe, are plotting a move for Super Eagles midfielder, Joe Aribo during the summer transfer window.

Aribo has established himself as an important player for Southampton over the past two seasons. He left Rangers for St. Mary’s three seasons ago, but he struggled to get minutes, as the club dropped down to the Championship.

However, he grew into the team last season and became a starter. The Super Eagles star featured in 40 games for the Saints in all competitions. And this season, he has featured in 35 of Southampton’s games. Aribo has even had to play out of position at times.

Unfortunately for him, his performances have not been enough for the Saints, as they are rooted to the bottom of the Premier League, condemned to Championship football next season.

With Southampton confirmed as a Championship side next season, some players are expected to leave the club in the summer, and Aribo could be one of them.

According to Transfer feed, Turkish Super Lig club Goztepe are keeping tabs on Aribo ahead of a potential transfer in the summer. The Super Eagles star still has one year left on his contract, and he is valued at €6 million, which is a price that Goztepe should be able to afford.

Although Göztepe might be able to afford Aribo’s price and his salary, the club might be a bit too small for him. The club currently sits eighth on the Super Lig table. In fact, this is their first season in the Turkish top-flight after two years in the second tier.

So, they are not stable enough and can even still drop to the second league next season. If Aribo moves to Turkey, he is expected to look at a club that is more settled or a mid-table club.

Nonetheless, in the coming weeks, Aribo should get more suitors. Then he will have to decide whether to help Southampton plot their return to the Premier League or to leave.

Before Southampton was finally relegated, Aribo had expressed his determination to solidify his place as a Premier League player.

The 27-year-old, who began his journey in English football in the Championship before a successful stint in Scotland with Glasgow Rangers, which ultimately led to his move to Southampton said: “I want to mark my stamp as a Premier League footballer—that’s a dream of mine. I just want to be acknowledged as a very good player, nothing too crazy, but I know what I am capable of.”

The Nigeria international added, “I know the abilities I have, and I believe my purpose is to showcase them for the world to see.”

Aribo was one player who risked becoming a villain with his comments before

Southampton’s final blow. The Nigeria international said that he was personally embarrassed by Southampton’s situation. He also admitted that being compared to Derby County, the record holders of the worst Premier League season ever was something that he cannot stop thinking about.

In his own words, Aribo said: “I’m going to speak for myself personally, of course, it’s embarrassing. We play football to win. I’m a winner and it’s just a difficult time in my career for me, obviously, with what’s going on with results. I think the boys have to stick together.”

Then, Aribo added: “Of course, you’re going to be thinking about that (matching Derby’s record). Like I said, for me, embarrassment creeps in and then the boys have to stand up, we have to be accounted for. We have to just work together and let that pride kick in for us and have some pride and dignity.”

Meanwhile, Southampton are hoping to tempt Aribo to remain at the club with the potential arrival of former Rangers boss Steven Gerrard, as the Saints prepare for another season in the Championship.

The versatile Nigerian midfielder, who previously enjoyed a successful spell under Gerrard at Rangers where they famously won the Scottish Premiership together, has recently suffered his second relegation with Southampton since joining the club in 2022.

Though Aribo stood out among his Southampton teammates for his competitive nature and willingness to challenge

the poor work ethics displayed by some members of the squad during their disappointing Premier League campaign, but it was not enough to save the Saints.

The 28-year-old’s commitment to restoring Southampton’s dignity has been evident throughout his time at St. Mary’s, where he has made 102 appearances, scoring nine goals and providing one assist since his move from Rangers.

With Aribo’s contract running until the summer of 2026, Southampton face a challenge to keep hold of a player of his calibre in the second tier of English football, despite his previous experience of playing in the Championship.

According to a report from EFLAnalysis, Southampton are seriously considering appointing Gerrard as their new manager, which could prove decisive in convincing Aribo to stay put rather than seek a new challenge elsewhere.

The potential reunion between Aribo and Gerrard has sparked optimism among Southampton supporters, many of whom remember their productive relationship at Rangers, where Aribo played 149 times under the Liverpool legend’s management.

One ofAribo’s most memorable moments during his time in Scotland came in the 2022 Europa League final, when he put Rangers 1-0 up against Frankfurt before the Scottish side eventually lost on penalties.

Southampton’s fall from the Premier League has been painful for all associated with the club, and securing key players like Aribo will be essential as they aim to make another immediate return to the

top flight with a statement campaign in the Championship.

The midfield stalwart’s decision may ultimately hinge on whether Southampton can finalise Gerrard’s appointment, with their shared history potentially providing the foundation for a successful partnership at St. Mary’s, even if only for a single season.

It, however, remains to be seen whether Aribo would want to sink for the second time with Southampton or join Gostep, where he would be a big fish in a small pond.

Aribo gets the better of Chelsea’s midfielder

The grand finale of the Championship will take place at the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club today, starting

Man City Go Third in Race for Europe

“Kevin de Bruyne scored the only goal on his penultimate game at Etihad Stadium as Manchester City beat Wolves and moved up to third in the Premier League.

Pep Guardiola’s side extended their unbeaten run to nine games while moving four points clear of sixth-placed Nottingham Forest as the race to qualify for next season’s Champions League continues.

Manchester City have won four consecutive Premier League matches for the first time since their 13-match winning run between April and September 2024.

They travel to relegated Southampton next weekend before hosting Bournemouth, completing the campaign with a trip to Fulham.

On Thursday night, a 2-0 defeat at home against Brentford, who hold their own European ambitions, left Forest sitting

sixth and up against it in their bid to secure a first appearance in Europe’s premier competition since 1980.

It is the first time Forest have lost successive home fixtures in the Premier League this season.

They must now rely on sides above them to drop points while also finding a way to address their own form, having lost three of their past four league outings.

There are still just five points separating Aston Villa in seventh with fourth-placed Newcastle.”

“Pep Guardiola has said his side’s season has not been good enough, but they are hitting their stride at just the right time, reaching the FA Cup final last weekend and extending their unbeaten run to nine games on Friday.

City have slipped off the top and been knocked out of

the Champions League early in their patchy campaign, and the result against Wolves was just the second time this season they had won five games in a row.

The hosts were given a stern test by an impressive Wolves outfit, but as good sides do they managed to hold firm before hitting their opponents with a goal against the run of play.

Speedy winger Doku proved to beamenacefromtheleftthroughout thegameanditwashislowcrosson 35 minutes which was converted by De Bruyne.

The captain is approaching the end of his City career and Wolves will be more than happy to see the back of him, as De Bruyne has contributedsixgoalsandfiveassists againstthemduringhis11-yearspell with the club.

Omar Marmoush blazed over andMateoKovacic scuffed wide, but City held on for a significant victory after Forest were beaten at home by Brentford on Thursday.

Premier League Top-Five Race Matches Live on GOtv

The Premier League continues this weekend as the fight for a top-five finish reaches a critical point. With only a handful of games remaining, just two points separate third from sixth.

Today’s action begins with Aston Villa hosting Fulham at 12:30 pm. Villa will aim to bounce back after last weekend’s defeat to Manchester City ended their five-game unbeaten run. At 3:00 pm, Everton play relegated Ipswich Town, while Leicester face Southampton.

Arsenal wrap up the day at 5:30 pm against Bournemouth. The Gunners are second on the table and five points clear of the chasing pack. A win would all but secure their runner-up spot behind champions Liverpool. Tomorrow is packed with key match-ups. At 2:00 pm, Manchester United play Brentford. United are riding high after a 3-0 midweek win in the Europa League, while Brentford also defeated Nottingham Forest 2-0 away from home. Brighton host third-placed Newcastle,

who have won five of their last six and are pushing to cement their Champions League place. Tottenham, also victorious in Europe, take on West Ham in another crucial tie.

The headline match sees Chelsea welcome Liverpool at 4:30 pm. Chelsea, now fifth, are chasing a third straight win. With just a point between them and fourth-placed City, every result counts. Liverpool, having secured the league title, will look to continue their strong finish.

Atilola Scores Major u pset in Girls 16s CBN Junior Tennis

Nigeria’s brightest junior tennis talent confirmed her billing as a future world class pro when she resoundingly upset defending champion and No.1 seed in the Girls 16s, Gloria Samuel from Ekiti, 6-1, 6-4 to reach the finals of the Girls 16 s of the CBN Junior Tennis Championship taking place in Lagos.

Atilola, the Girls 14s champion who was given a slot in the 16s was on fire from the beginning, spraying forehand and backhand winners to lead 5-0 before a dazed Samuel managed

to take one game. The story was almost the same in the second set as MOFI, as she is popularly called raced to a 4-0 lead with unbelievable defensive skills, before Samuel found her bearing to fight back to 4-4. Undaunted by the new challenge, Atilola raised her game to win the next two games to close out the match. Atilola will now feature in two finals today. She will meet Goodnews Aina, from Ekiti in the Girls 16 finals and Success Godwin in the Girls 14.. Aina weathered a hard second set where she lost

five match points against Favour Effiong of the GEUF Academy in Uyo before winning 6-4, 7-6. The Boys 16 finals will be between Gbolahan Olawale from Ondo and Seyi Ogunsakin from Ekiti while Issah Yahaya will take on Joel Michael of Lagos in the Boys 14s. The Boys 12s will have Ogoniba Excellency from Bayelsa squaring up against Emmanuel Ogungbe of Ogun State.

Karina Opeune from Bayelsa will be up against Mabubat Rasaki from Oyo State in the Girls 12s.

Guardiols to Take Break after e xpiration of Man City Contract

Pep Guardiola has vowed to “stop” when he leaves Manchester City – but has yet to decide if that means a sabbatical or something more permanent.

Guardiola signed a new deal at the Etihad Stadium in November, tying himself to the club for two more seasons.

Once his 11-year stint with City is up he fully intends to walk away, as he did for a year after leaving Barcelona before

joining Bayern Munich in 2013, but has stopped short of saying he will leave the dugout for good.

“After my contract with City, I’m going to stop. I’m sure,” he told ESPN Brasil.

“I don’t know if I’m going to retire, but I’m going to take a break.”

Contemplating his trophyladen coaching legacy, which also encompasses spells at the top of Spanish and Ger-

man football, the Catalonian added that he was confident supporters of the clubs he had managed had enjoyed watching his sides play.

“In the careers of coaches, there are good and bad ones, the important thing is that the good ones are remembered for longer,” he added. “There are new challenges as a coach, I don’t know what will happen in the future and in the end that doesn’t matter.”

Juventus Identify Boniface as Alternative to Osimhen

Juventus are reportedly exploring alternatives to Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen in their search for a new center forward, with Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface emerging as a key target.

While Osimhen, currently on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, has long been linked with a move to Turin, his high transfer cost could deter Juventus from making a move.

As reported by Turin-based sports daily, Tuttosport, Boniface has become a leading option for Juventus as they seek to strengthen their attack.

The 24-year-old Nigerian forward has been in exceptional form for Leverkusen this season, showcasing his ability to score goals and contribute to the team’s overall play.

Boniface, who was close to a move to Saudi Arabia in the winter transfer window, is seen as a more affordable alternative to Osimhen.

Juventus have been in the market for a new striker for several months, and with Osimhen’s loan situation complicating any potential deal, the club is now casting

a wider net.

Boniface’s recent performances, coupled with his relative youth and potential for growth, make him an attractive target for the Italian giants.

While discussions are still ongoing, Juventus will need to weigh the financial implications of signing Boniface against their broader transfer strategy.

The club’s focus is on acquiring a proven goal-scorer who can make an immediate impact in Serie A, and Boniface may be just the player to fill that void.

Atlético Madrid Step up Chase for Lookman

Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman is poised for a highprofile summer transfer, with Spanish giants Atlético Madrid among the clubs vying for his signature. The Super Eagles forward will be one of the main transfer attractions when top European clubs whip out their purses for purchases in the summer.

Despitehavingacontractwith AtalantathatrunsuntilJune2027, the Nigerian international is expected to depart Bergamo at the end of the season.

TheSerieAclubarereportedly willing to sell the 27-year-old if their €60 million (£51.5m) valua-

tionismet,withseveralEuropean powerhouses monitoring the situation.

According to Spanish outlet Marca via Les-transferts,Atlético Madrid have already opened discussions with Lookman’s representatives.

While Diego Simeone’s side reportedly believe Atalanta’s asking price is steep, they are seriously considering a move after being impressed by Lookman’s prolific campaign.

The former CharltonAthletic winger has scored 18 goals and supplied seven assists in 37 appearances across all competitions this season.

Lookman’s resurgence in Italy comesafteranunderwhelming spell in English football. He scored just four times in 48 matches for Everton after arriving in 2017 and endured further struggles during loan stints at Fulham and Leicester City. However, his form has flourished since joining Atalanta permanently from RB Leipzig in 2022, racking up 50 goals and 22 assists in 110 appearances.

AtléticoMadridarenottheonly club interested in Lookman, with a number of elite Premier League clubs also linked with the Nigeria international.

Enugu City International Marathon’ll Be Annual Event, Says Governor Mbah

The Enugu City International Marathon, which is certified by World Athletics will be annual event, organisers of the event said yesterday.

The first edition of the Enugu City Marathon will hold this morning around the coal city.

At the World press conference held in Enugu, on Friday to herald the event, Enugu state Commissioner for Sports, Lloyd EkweremaduJrsaidthestateGovernment is excited about the race holdingthisSaturdayandthatthey are already looking forward to its sustainability beyond this year’s edition.

“I want to announce that becauseofthepotentialandeconomic

viabilityofthisrace,thestateGovernor,HisExcellencyPeterMbah, hasapprovedthattheEnuguCity InternationalMarathonwillbean annual event. This is going to be a continuousprocessandweknow thattheeconomyofourstatewillbe boostedwithsuchaninternational event.”

The Commissioner also explained why the state decided to choose a marathon, instead of another sporting event.

“Wedecidedtodoamarathon event because the road race involves many athletes at the same time, and you can get the youths engaged more with such a sporting event.”

On her part, the Managing

Director of Nilayo Sports Management Company, which is the Consultants of the Race, Mrs. Yetunde Olopade, commended the investment of theEnuguState GovernmentinSports.

“Governor Peter Mbah has continuallyshownthathehasaroad mapforsportsdevelopmentinthe statewhenyoutakealookatallthe investmentsheisputtingintosports toensurethestate is a major power house in sports Development in Nigeria,” she said. The calibre of top dignitaries at the Press Conference further underscores the profile of the race, which is a first of its kind in the history of South Eastern Nigeria.

‘Man City’ll Give everything to win Club world

Bernardo Silva says Manchester City will give their all to try and remain world champions at the new expanded Club World Cup in the USA next month.

Citygointothe32-teamtournament as one of the favourites and they came out on top the last time the competition was held in its

former smaller format in 2023 in SaudiArabia.

“Well,I’mforitbecauseifyoulook at the competition, it’s a beautiful competitionifyoulookattheteams whoaregoingtobethere.Theformat,it’snice-Ilikethat,”Silvasaid.

“Iwouldsaywe are very much looking forward to that specific competition. It is going to be

a beautiful one with teams all across the world. It’s a nice cup that we have an opportunity to win.

“I

De Bruyne scores Manchester City only goal against wolves yesterday

Osimhen

PAYING FINAL RESPECTS TO PASCAL DOZIE…

OBINNA CHIMA

Where is Olajumoke Oduwole?

Today marks exactly 180 days since Dr. Olajumoke Oduwole assumed the position of Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment. In a nation grappling with innumerable economic challenges and seeking to bolster growth, beyond rhetoric, the lack of visible initiatives by her office is becoming increasingly concerning.

Oduwole’s appointment to her position last year by President Bola Tinubu came with lots of expectations, and many people thought that she would hit the ground running. No doubt, she brought a wealth of experience and expertise to her current role. As the pioneer Executive Secretary of the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) set up in 2016, the belief was that she had a full grasp of the factors making it difficult for businesses to flourish, promote trade and investment. But so far, she has not been able to pull her weight. The main objective of macroeconomic policy is to achieve sustainable economic growth in the context of price stability and viable external accounts. For this, it is essential to have a close degree of coordination among policymakers in the areas of monetary, fiscal, and trade policies. Today, the Minister of Trade and Investment has not been able to churn out policies that would support monetary and fiscal policies, sometimes leading to inconsistencies and challenges in achieving economic goals. This lack of alignment results in policies that sometimes work against each other.

Trade is crucial for economic growth as it facilitates specialisation, expands markets, encourages competition, and promotes innovation, ultimately leading to higher productivity and economic prosperity. Investment, on the other hand, is a key factor that determines economic progress in any nation, and Nigeria requires a great amount of investment to promote and enhance economic activities that guarantee better living conditions for its citizens and lift a lot out of poverty. Creating the conditions for investment and trade to flourish is essential to building robust pathways towards sustainable economic growth. This is because when businesses, domestic and international, feel confident about Nigeria’s environment, they are more

likely to commit resources. Such capital injection drives job creation across various sectors. With this, new industries emerge, existing ones expand, and the overall productivity of the nation increases. Investment also brings with it transfer of valuable skills and technologies. Nigeria has enormous economic potential due to its abundant resources and growing population. The country has the potential to manufacture many products that are currently being imported. However, economic growth and investment over the years have been hampered by its persistently low ranking on international measures of ease of doing business and it keeps punching below its belt. It is well documented that Nigeria has a difficult business environment. In 2023, the country ranked 131st out of 190 economies in the World Bank’s annual ease of doing business ratings as it faces challenges in areas such as getting electricity, registering property, paying taxes, and resolving insolvency. Also, Nigeria was ranked ninth in Africa for investment opportunities in 2024,

according to the Rand Merchant Bank’s ‘Where to Invest in Africa’ report and Nigeria ranked 113th out of 133 economies in the 2024 Global Innovation Index (GII). Nigeria ranks 127th for infrastructure, 125th for institutions, and 121st for market sophistication, knowledge, and technology outputs.

In 2023, President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration launched the Trade Policy of Nigeria (TPN) 2023-2027, which was expected to enhance economic growth and development. The 59-page document is also expected to help the country pursue market-oriented policies, based on principles that are consistent with Nigeria’s rights and obligations in the World Trade Organisation and in global trade. At a period of heightened global economic uncertainties and complexity in the world occasioned by United States President Donald Trump’s reciprocal tariffs, how relevant is the TPN today?

Oduwole must be at the forefront in designing a clear strategy for Nigeria to navigate the tides. The current situation in the global trade environment has created an opportunity for Nigeria to assert its dominance in Africa.

Effectively leveraging existing trade agreements like the African Continental Free Trade Area to expand market access for Nigerian goods and services is key today and presents a significant opportunity for the country to increase its trade with other African countries.

Oduwole needs to develop a clear strategy for Nigeria to maximise the benefits of the continental trade agreement. Her ability to deliver tangible results in the face of these challenges will determine her success.

In addition, Nigeria has historically struggled to attract consistent and substantial foreign direct investments. The minister is expected to implement policies and strategies that make Nigeria a more attractive destination for foreign investors.

During a recent ministerial briefing, Oduwole, alongside her counterpart, John Eno, said the federal government aims to position Nigeria as a prime investment destination, to unlock a $50 billion Foreign Direct Investment commitment and that President Tinubu’s foreign trips have so far accumulated $50.8 billion in proposed investments. In addition, she said the ministry is collaborating commercial banks to provide soft loans for micro,

small, and medium-scale enterprises across Nigeria’s 776 local government areas to boost the manufacturing sector and grassroots wealth creation. Nigerians are eager to see all these move beyond policy intentions that the investments commitments come to fruition. She must understand the fierce urgency to increase investment and expand trade in the country. Also, it is the primary responsibility of her ministry to create an enabling environment where people can do business, and investors would find it attractive to invest. Simplifying regulations, streamlining bureaucratic processes, and fostering a more predictable business environment are not just desirable goals, but essential for Nigeria to reach its full potential. Creating a more business-friendly climate would signal to international investors that Nigeria is open for business and would encourage the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises, which are the backbone of any economy. Additionally, it reduces opportunities for corruption, promotes a level playing field for businesses, increases public trust in government, and enhances the country’s global competitiveness by making it more attractive for trade and investment in the long term.

Improving the ease of doing business in Nigeria is not just a technical exercise; it’s a strategic imperative for the country’s economic future. The achievement of double-digit growth which is the target of the government, achieving a drop in inflation, and a friendly macroeconomic environment would also require a shift in policy focus.

In all of these, the minister’s success will depend on her ability to translate policy pronouncements into concrete actions and results.

As I stated earlier, the media is littered with headlines such as “Oduwole Pledges…, Minister Promises….,” and she must do more going forward by focusing on tangible actions and results. With this, the ministry under her leadership will help attract the muchdesired investments, create jobs, and improve the lives of its citizens. It will also be able to develop and execute well-thought-out trade policies to enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness, attract foreign investment, and promote export diversification. The time for action is now.

L-R: Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi; Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma and sympathisers at the burial ceremony for the founder of defunct Diamond Bank, Pascal Dozie, at Egbu, Imo State… yesterday

Oduwole