SATURDAY 5TH JULY 2025

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

natural accidents, operational maintenance errors, sabotage, among others. In terms of gas deployment, an average of 77 per cent of the

total daily Domestic Gas Delivery Obligation (DGDO) was delivered in the year under review, the report stated.

According to the data, the challenges militating against DGDO performance included: Inadequate in-country gas infrastructure and interconnectivity; gas transmission

pressure challenges; unreliability of the offtakers in taking allocated nominations; gas inventory challenges; grid power infrastructure constraint; security issues, among others. In the same vein, the commission stated that producers submitted

Hadin Kai thwarted an attempt by terrorists to blow up the MarteDikwa bridge in Borno State. The

stated that troops uncovered 60 heavily primed Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) plotted at the foot of the bridge to blow

it up and kill innocent road users. A statement by Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Headquarters Theatre Command,

Operation Hadin Kai, Captain Reuben Kovangiya, said the troops also killed a terrorist and recovered assorted weapons during

coordinated offensive operations. The offensive operations, he

Coalition to Unseat Tinubu in 2027

Doomed to Fail, Wike, Sanwo-Olu Declare

release forensic report on NDDC Lagos governor condemns political distractions Governors’

won’t save Tinubu, APC from defeat, says Dalung Baba-Ahmed: Struggle for presidential ticket biggest test for ADC Babangida Aliyu, Niger PDP deny joining coalition

Chuks Okocha, Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja, Laleye Dipo in Minna and Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos have dismissed the new coalition aimed at unseating President Bola Tinubu in 2027, describing it as a futile and ill-conceived venture.

While Wike said the coalition forces are not a threat to Tinubu’s reelection bid in 2027, Sanwo-Olu emphatically said the bid to wrest power from the president in 2027 would fail.

However, a former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Solomon Dalung, yesterday declared that regardless of the defections by some State Governors to the APC, Tinubu and his party would be defeated in the 2027 elections. Speaking on national television, Dalung dismissed the potential impact of defections or

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Nigerian Army yesterday revealed that troops of Operation

military high command

Banks Resume Dollar Transactions on Naira Debit Cards Amid Improved FX Liquidity

Nume Ekeghe

Nigerian banks have once again started allowing customers to make international payments using their naira-denominated debit cards, following a long pause due to foreign exchange pressures.

appointments made by the president.

Also, yesterday, the PDP in Niger State said its members, including a member of the Board of Trustees of the party and former Governor of Niger State, Dr. Muazu Babangida Aliyu, are not part of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), but remain in the PDP.

Wike made his remarks in an interview on a television programme monitored by THISDAY.

A group of politicians, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; 2023 Labour Party(LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi; former Senate President, David Mark; former Transport Minister, Rotimi Amaechi; former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el-Rufai, and his Osun State counterpart Rauf Aregbesola, are some of the leaders of the coalition.

Wike berated the Interim Chairman of African Democratic Party (ADC), David Mark, Atiku, Amaechi, and Tambuwal, among others, who defected from the PDP to join the fledging coalition.

He rubbished the claim that all the mentioned persons were PDP political heavyweights, saying none of them delivered their local government in 2023 to PDP, only to now abandon the party.

He challenged Mark’s credentials as a big weight of PDP, saying in his federal constituency, his daughter ran under APC and won, saying that was either a sign of weakness, or of a person not being on the ground, lack of sincerity and or playing a prank with PDP by Mark.

“How can you be the leader of the party? A former Senate President for eight years from a federal constituency, and your daughter will run in another party and win the party that you are a leader for Christ's sake!

“The point I'm making is you are a leader of the party, and your daughter ran against your own party under another party which is the party your opponent took-APC. And that party your daughter won. Now what I'm trying to say don't give comfort to anybody. Let's open everything as it should be now.

“And let's tell ourselves the simple truth. How your daughter won in a federal constituency it is her responsibility. But it is either you played PDP wayo or you were not on the ground,” he said.

He rejected the allusion that Mark’s leadership of the coalition will pose a threat to President Tinubu’s reelection, saying he and co travelers were not a threat

“I want to tell Nigerians this. I have no problem. I never told you that as a government, we don't have challenges. No, but Nigerians also know who these people are. Were they not people who were in government? Who is putting

said, followed a renewed effort to deny Boko Haram/Islamic State West African Province (ISWAP) terrorists freedom of action and restore lasting peace in the Northeast region.

But now, Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank), United Bank for Africa (UBA), and Wema Bank, Stanbic IBTC, and others have joined in, reopening access for customers to use their naira cards for global transactions.

GTBank, in a message to

Until recently, only Providus Bank used to allow its premium customers to use naira cards for dollar payments abroad.

Nigerians to this suffering? And somebody came in, in just two years miracle will be performed? Nowhere is it done.”

Speaking further, he said, “Amaechi was a governor. He was a speaker for eight years, a governor for eight years. Was a minister for eight years. He never knew Nigerians were suffering.

“Remember. Ameachi was one of those who championed the removal of Jonathan. And he claimed and he said openly ‘we kicked him out.’ He said so and was proud of it. He wanted to be somewhere. Now his government came from 2015 to 2023. What happened to Nigerians? Nigerians were in heaven? Nigerians were not suffering? Everything was going normal?

“There were three bombs. From Abuja to Kaduna. They bombed the train. There was no train again from Abuja to Kaduna. For how many years? Was that under Tinubu government?

“He was the Minister of transportation and was Tinubu the President then? You were there for eight years, not eight months. Eight years! This man came just two years and you could not push us to correct what has happened. Right?

“This man took over just two years ago and you started a coalition 18 months ago, which means, Tinubu was in office for just six months and they started coalition?” Wike raged.

Wike insisted that Tinubu did not cause the hardship, maintaining that all his policies were aimed at trying to find a solution to challenges facing the country.

He again berated Ameachi for amassing debt for Nigerians through the railway project which had not benefited the country.

He also disputed Amaechi’s claim that his wife was an industrialist and exhorted Tinubu to release the forensic report on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), alleging that Amaechi’s wife was collecting N4 billion every month from the Commission to train Niger- Delta women.

“The forensic report of it is there, who killed it? It was Abubakar Malami, then Attorney General that killed it to protect whoever was concerned. Mr. President should help Nigerians. Please, release the forensic audit of the NDDC. He should please do us a favour, to release that document,” Wike said, with a threat to resign as the FCT Minister if the forensic audit was not released.

In the same vein, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, yesterday said advocates of a coalition to wrest power from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027 would fail.

According to Sanwo-Olu, Nigerians

customers, explained that its Naira card now has a quarterly international spending limit of $1,000, enabling “you to pay for your favourite items anywhere in the world.”

“This limit includes up to $500 for ATM withdrawals abroad and up to $1,000 for online and POS transactions. Please note that the

would support the President to ensure that the gains of his bold reforms are fully realised.

The Governor said the ADC was nothing but a mere distraction, which Tinubu should ignore.

“Nigerians will never go back to Egypt,” Sanwo-Olu told a group of journalists and politicians in Lagos. “The target is to distract the Commanderin-Chief and derail the social and economic gains that we can see and feel, but President Tinubu knows the game and will never fall for their bait,” the Governor said.

In Sanwo-Olu’s view, Tinubu’s track record, achievements, and reform agenda are strong enough to stand above any narrative being crafted to derail his administration or his prospects for re-election.

He cited the stability in the foreign exchange market, students loan scheme, massive infrastructural projects, more revenue for states after the removal of fuel subsidy, tax reforms, increased oil production and the national minimum wage, among others.

“President Tinubu is not only a builder of men but a visionary leader whose impact is evident across the nation,” Sanwo-Olu said.

Asked if the President and his All Progressives Congress (APC) were bothered about ADC and its promoters, Sanwo-Olu said: “No one should be concerned or distracted by what ADC or any other group is attempting to orchestrate. The truth is clear, the people can see the difference, and history is on his side.”

Presidential aides have described the coalition as “a gathering of desperados” and “internally displaced politicians”, who should be ignored.

“They have nothing but bitterness to offer; they are bound together by their illogical resentment against President Tinubu, not by any edifying ideology. They will run out of steam,” Sanwo-Olu said.

Asked what advice he had for the President, the Governor replied: “Simple. The President should stay the course. Millions of well-meaning Nigerians across party lines and compatriots, who understand what it takes to govern the most populous black nation on earth and revive a troubled economy, are behind him and trust his leadership.

“We know how far we’ve come under President Tinubu’s leadership. The focus should remain on delivering results, deepening reforms, and building a stronger Nigeria. Any attempt to shake that foundation will be futile,” he added.

Amid rhetoric from ADC and other

$1,000 quarterly cap applies to all international transactions, including cash withdrawals, online purchases, POS payments outside Nigeria, and other related services,” it stated.

UBA also announced a similar update, but specifically for its premium cardholders, stating: “In line with our continued commitment to providing you with seamless and enhanced banking experiences, we are pleased to inform you that all UBA Premium Naira Cards, including Gold, Platinum, and World variants, are now enabled for international transactions.

opposition voices, Sanwo-Olu called for calm, discipline, and continued confidence in the President’s leadership.

Earlier yesterday, during the inauguration of the newly rehabilitated Aguma Palace, Radio Nigeria, New Market Road in Gwagwalada Area Council, Wike, threw a gauntlet at the coalition movement as people pained with the spate of projects in FCT.

He scorned the opposition for setting the stage for coalition against Tinubu 18 months ago, when he was barely six months in office.

“When will you stop deceiving Nigerians? Somebody came into office six months then you have started coalition that he may have not performed. But you had opportunity to be Senate President for eight years, you had an opportunity to be Speaker for four years, you had an opportunity to be Minister of Transportation for eight years. Yet you never made angry Nigerians to be happy but people stayed in office for six months, you started telling people how Nigerians are angry.

“I have said, ‘everybody, show your scorecard’. When I was a Senate President, let me show my scorecard. How did I help the people of Benue State? How did I help the people of Otukpo? Is it by flying helicopter to Otukpo?

“We are here for 16 days, we are showing our scorecard. This time is what we call, operation show your scorecard. God gave you opportunity to be in office to make Nigerians to be happy according to you, but you refused. Now you have left office you are angry, you are saying Nigerians are angry. No! You are angry you want to come back to power, you will not come back to power.

“In 2023 they said they would support one man whose business has been, ‘from 1999 I am in this party’. ‘2006, I am in this party’. ‘2014 I am in this party’. ‘2019, I am in the other party’. ‘Now 2025, I am in another coalition.’ Dem born you born coalition?!!” Wike raged. He also threw a jibe at his predecessor as Governor of River State, Rotimi Amaechi, for making the country highly indebted through borrowing from China Eximbank as minister in 2019.

In particular, he accused Amaechi of inciting Nigerians to revolt, calling on him to spearhead the revolution with his children.

“Some people say, oh, Nigerians should come out. The man who is saying that I want you to lead it. You that is inciting Nigeria to revolt, I'm waiting for you in Rivers State. You will start there first, and you will lead it with your children. Not that their children will be

“This means you can now use your Premium Naira Card for everyday payments, online shopping, POS, and ATM transactions across the world, with more ease and flexibility.”

in London, and then here you are saying, they should come out and revolt. If you can come with your children, you will face us first, then we will know that you really mean what you are saying.

“Mr. president, I want you to be proud. I want you to be proud. Because you have changed the narrative. It doesn't matter, some people who will never be happy. If God has given them life, they say they won't be happy, it's their business. God has done his own. Since they say they won't be happy, may they never be happy. Me, I'm always happy. Seeing them alone, I'm happy. So, let them not be happy. They will face us when the time comes,” Wike vowed.

Also, Wike chided the interim spokesperson of the ADC, Malam Bolaji Abdullahi, describing him as one of the greedy individuals whose desperation for power brought the PDP to its present state.

Wike’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, stated this in a statement yesterday.

He berated Abdullahi and his cotravellers in what he called, “the coalition of confusion” describing them as people that were only hungry and angry to grab power for their selfish interest, rather than for the wellbeing of Nigerians.

Abdullahi, had on Thursday confessed that he and others were aggrieved that Wike allowed himself to be used to destroy the PDP, which he described as one of the most powerful political parties in Africa.

But in response, Olayinka wondered if it was because of Wike that Abdullahi left the PDP in 2014, or because he fell out with his mentor

Senator Bukola Saraki, who groomed him from Special Assistant to a Minister.

“As a minister in the government of President Goodluck Jonathan, why did Abdullahi leave the PDP for the APC then? Was it because the government he was part of failed and Nigerians were angry?

“As National Publicity Secretary of the APC, did he leave the party in 2018 because of Wike or because he saw that his thirst for power could no longer be quenched in the party?

“When in 2019, Abdullahi ran unsuccessfully for nomination as the PDP governorship candidate in Kwara State, was it because Nigerians were angry? Even in 2023, that he got the PDP senatorial ticket, he still lost the election to his APC rival.

“If after serving as Special Assistant, Special Adviser and Commissioner in Kwara State and as Minister of the Federal

Similarly, Wema Bank, in its message to customers stated: “Your Wema Naira Mastercard just went global! Now you can pay in dollars on all your favourite international platforms; Amazon, eBay, AliExpress? Netflix, Spotify, YouTube.”

Republic of Nigeria, the people of Kwara State could still not trust Abdullahi enough with the PDP governorship ticket and later a Senatorial mandate, it simply means that he is a political liability and this reality he must face.

Dalung: Defections Won’t Save Tinubu, APC from Defeat in 2027

In the meantime, Dalung, yesterday, declared that regardless of the defections by some State Governors to the APC, Tinubu and his party would be defeated in the 2027 elections.

Speaking on national television, Dalung dismissed the potential impact of defections or appointments made by the president.

“Even if the 36 state governors defect to the APC and he appoints Seyi Tinubu as the chairman of INEC, and maybe he appoints his wife as the Chief Justice of Nigeria, and even if INEC becomes the last institution to decamp to the APC, they are going to be defeated in 2027,” Dalung said.

He accused the Tinubu-led administration of declaring war on the Nigerian people, citing worsening living conditions and what he described as state-backed injustice.

“Nigerians should buckle up for 2027 because the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has drawn the battle line. The government has weaponised poverty, hunger, and hardship and has popularised corruption, impunity, and injustice,” he stated.

Dalung urged Nigerians to align with the coalition, saying it was the only option “to confront the government in 2027.”

Babangida Aliyu, Niger PDP Deny ADC

Also, the PDP in Niger State yesterday, disowned the ADC, even as a member of the Board of Trustees of the party and former Governor of Niger State, Dr. Muazu Babangida Aliyu, said he remains in the PDP.

A statement made available to THISDAY by the State chapter of the PDP titled, "No to Coalition," signed by the State Chairman of the party, Mr. Tanko Beji, declared that, "For we in the PDP in Niger State, the coalition is not the answer for now, but anyone who feels strongly disposed to it can join as there is no force remaining.

"We are working to hold the Congress of the party very soon to elect new officials that will run the party in the State."

According to him, "On 3 July 2025, troops, while conducting operations around Marte and Dikwa general areas, discovered a large quantity of IEDs at a bridge linking Marte and Dikwa, believed to have been stashed by the terrorists to unleash mayhem and destroy critical national infrastructure. The recovery has significantly thwarted a disaster in the general area.

formal letters requesting waivers or offering reasons they might not meet the mandated domestic oil supply volumes for several reasons.

Nigeria’s domestic crude oil supply challenge is a critical issue undermining the stability of the country’s energy sector. Despite being one of Africa’s top oil producers, Nigeria continues to grapple with ensuring an adequate and reliable supply of crude oil to its local

"In the same vein, troops, while conducting a coordinated fighting

refineries, both public and modular. At the heart of the problem is the limited capacity of Nigeria to produce adequate crude for local refining and export. For years, the country relied heavily on fuel imports due to the poor state of its government-owned refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna, which operated far below their installed capacities. Pipeline vandalism and oil theft have also disrupted crude availability.

patrol along Fulatari in the Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State, captured a terrorist fighter and recovered an AK-47 rifle with a magazine and a large quantity of ammunition. Another combat team on operations around Mussini in the Ngala Local Government Area came into contact and engaged the terrorists with superior firepower, forcing the terrorists to scamper in disarray."

Sabotage of critical oil pipelines makes transportation risky and expensive, forcing some operators to shut down production or reroute cargo at high cost. These security concerns, particularly in the Niger Delta, directly affect how much crude oil can be reliably delivered to domestic refineries.

It said: “The commission received several pushbacks from IPPG, OPTS, some producers and their equity

Captain Kovangiya stated that troops, during pursuit, recovered AK47 rifles, jerrycans of premium motor spirit, motorcycles, and terrorists' uniforms, among other sundry items.

"In another development, troops on offensive operations at Salekwa area in the Mafa Local Government Area made further contact with the insurgents, neutralising some fighters while others fled. While exploiting the general area, troops recovered AK47 rifles, AK47 magazines, and the body of one neutralised terrorist," he said.

partners via formal letters, either requesting for waivers on the allocated monthly obligations, or giving detailed explanations why they might not be able to meet up with the allocated volumes etc.”

According to the report, a working committee was set up with representatives from the NUPRC, Oil Producers Trade Section (OPTS), Independent Petroleum Producers Group (IPPG), and the Crude Oil

He noted that the resilient troops have been commended by the Military High Command and have continued to conduct a series of operations in high spirits, with close air support from the Air Component Command of OPHK, in collaboration with relevant security agencies and stakeholders, to facilitate socio-economic activities in the North-east.

Refinery-Owners Association of Nigeria (CORAN) to sort out issues around domestic oil supply to local refineries.

The panel, it said, was tasked with developing a comprehensive framework for implementing the Domestic Crude Supply Obligations (DCSO) policy.

“Following several complaints from operators about the presence of refiners at curtailment meeting,

another letter was sent to refiners, notifying them of the commission’s decision to put all refiners’ attendance at the monthly Production Curtailment Meeting (PCM) on hold temporarily till further notice,” it added. In spite of the challenges, the NUPRC said it continued to facilitate crude allocation to local refineries, ensuring transparency by publishing relevant data on its website.

PUBLIC HEARING ON CONSTITUTION AMENDMENT...

L-R: Chairman, Senate Committee on Navy, Senator Gbenga Daniel; Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; Leader of the Senate/Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele; Deputy Minority Leader of the Senate, Senator Kamorudeen Olarere; and Chairman, Senate Committee on Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Oluranti Adebule, at the zonal public hearing on the ongoing constitution amendment held in Lagos … yesterday

In Azerbaijan, Tinubu Seeks Just Energy Transition, Climate-resilient Future

President Bola Tinubu, yesterday called for a fair energy transition that will not jeopardise developing economies amid growing advocacy for cleaner energy.

The president spoke at the 17th Summit of the Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO), with the theme, "New ECO Vision for a Sustainable and Climate-Resilient Future", which commenced in Khankhendi, Azerbaijan. Tinubu pointed out that given the adverse effects of climate change— including devastating droughts, floods, desertification, and extreme heat waves—a climate-resilient future remained essential.

Represented by Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, the president said, “Nigeria, endowed with both fossil and renewable energy, also supports a just energy transition."

He, therefore, sought the ECO members’ partnership to expand access to cleaner energy technologies, share technical expertise, and invest in regional power pools to bring electricity to communities currently without it. The president stated that since

COP29, the world had recognised that climate change is not a distant threat but a clear and present danger, as reflected in adverse droughts, floods, desertification, and severe heat waves.

He said this had deeply affected humanity, engendered food insecurity, displacement, and economic disruption.

The president, however, pledged that Nigeria, as Africa’s most populous nation and an economic gateway to West Africa, stood ready to work closely with ECO member states to integrate climate adaptation, mitigation, and green industrialisation into every aspect of its cooperation.

Tinubu stated that the country had taken deliberate and conscious steps to address the challenges of climate change and related concerns, noting that as the nation wound down the implementation of its National Development Plan (NDP) for 2021-2025, efforts were ongoing to develop a successor plan, the NDP for 2026-2030.

Tinubu said, “It is not by accident that the Plan is designed to end in 2030, which is the deadline for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)."

Addressing the summit, he said, “It is to ensure that Nigeria stays on track

IPPG Lauds FG’s Oil Industry Reforms, Appoints Falade Chair Designate

Emmanuel

Addeh in Abuja

The outgoing Chairman of the Independent Petroleum Producers Group (IPPG) Mr. Abdulrazaq Isa, has hailed the significant progress made in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector since the inauguration of the current administration in 2023. In his industry keynote address at the just ended opening ceremony of the 2025 NOG Energy Week in Abuja, Isa, reflecting on the sector’s journey, highlighted the administration’s responsiveness to the industry’s reform wish-list.

He noted that "most of the industry requests have been delivered," a development he described as "unprecedented."

He credited this success to President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to oil sector reform, particularly the strategic transformation of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) into a commercially driven national oil company.

The IPPG Chairman commended

Tinubu for appointing a technically competent leadership team at the NNPC, including the newly appointed Group Chief Executive Officer, Bayo Ojulari.

Isa emphasised that with the conclusion of divestments by International Oil Companies (IOCs), full implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), and fresh leadership across the sector, the industry now stands at a critical turning point.

"The ball is now firmly in our court," he declared, urging industry stakeholders to align with the President’s production target of 3 million barrels of oil and 12 billion cubic feet of gas per day by 2030.

Isa noted that the recently divested onshore and shallow water assets, largely held by IPPG members, would play a central role in achieving these targets. He outlined a call to action for indigenous producers, emphasising the need for structural reforms, increased investment, community engagement, infrastructure expansion, and strengthened collaboration across the sector.

in implementing the SDGs”, adding that the plan was also to integrate climate change and related issues, including diversification, adaptation, and mitigation, into the nation’s national development planning for sustainability.

Tinubu stated that true sustainability is impossible without interconnected economies and argued that the challenges of climate change require global resilience through stronger infrastructure, smarter energy systems, and the integration of trade corridors.

Subsequently, he stated that Nigeria would advocate for a strengthened

ECO-Africa Trade Corridor that would harmonise tariffs, streamline customs procedures, and establish multimodal logistics platforms capable of efficiently connecting Africa with the rest of the world.

He stated Nigeria would also push for Energy Interoperability and Transition, explaining that the shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy must be managed in a way that considers economies in transition.

The president made a compelling case for inclusive growth, urging ECO members to prioritise empowering vulnerable groups.

In a statement, he said, “As we all know, no vision for sustainability is complete without inclusive growth.

The benefits of trade, transport, and energy must reach rural farmers, fishing communities, livestock sector stakeholders, young people, and women entrepreneurs.

"Nigeria urges the ECO to, empower youth through skills, entrepreneurship, and digital inclusion; promote gender equity in regional trade and energy access; and mobilise public-private partnerships to fund grassroots climate adaptation, from regenerative agriculture to local green

enterprises.

"The road to 2030 and beyond must be paved with policies that leave no one behind."

He said that as efforts were being made to align with the outcomes of COP29, it was time for the ECO to emerge as a unified bloc championing climate justice, equitable financing, and fair-trade terms on the global stage. The president said, “Nigeria stands ready to support Climate actions, invest in innovation, and protect our most vulnerable populations. Let our unity serve as both a shield and a ladder for resilience and shared prosperity.”

REA Gets Solar Power Testing Devices to Curb Substandard Equipment

Nigeria moved to curb the deployment of substandard equipment in the renewables segment of the power sector yesterday, with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) receiving devices from Chinese Company, Huawei, to test the authenticity of products, both local and imported.

At a brief handover ceremony in Abuja, the Chief Executive of the REA, Abba Aliyu, reiterated the role played by President Bola Tinubu, following his recent visit to China, stressing that the equipment will help reduce cases of low quality materials in Nigeria's renewable energy drive.

He stated that sometime in

September 2024, the President visited China, explaining that the event was part of the results of the China-Africa initiative, which saw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the time.

The MoU, he said, was signed to enable Huawei to support the agency in developing a world-class mini-grid standardisation and simulation centre in Abuja.

“I am happy to say that today we are witnessing the fulfillment of all the commitments signed under that memorandum of understanding. The importance of this mini-bridge standardisation and simulation centre cannot be over-emphasised.

“Nigeria is working towards positioning itself as the renewable hub of Africa. To achieve that, Nigeria would require to catalyse private sector investment in the manufacturing and assembly of all the renewable equipment in the country. But one key thing that may hinder that, is the proliferation of substandard or used equipment that keeps coming into Nigeria.

“Private sector will require the assurance and the confidence that if they put in their money and build a manufacturing outfit in the manufacturing of photovoltaic panels or assembly of that, they would not be competing with people that import second-hand or substandard PV panels.

“To address that, the REA sought the support of Huawei and the Chinese government for the development of this simulation and standardisation centre. This centre will help REA to sieve out all substandard and second-hand equipment, be it the PV panels or batteries,” Aliyu added. He listed some of the 18 equipment donated by Huawei as: Power analyser, multimeter , electronic load, AFCI generator, DC power, pyranometer, handler pyranometer, battery analyser, micrometer, screw gauge, barrier caliper, tool kit, computers, idea hub, and printers, among others.

GTBank Raises $105 Million in London Share Sale

Guaranty Trust Holding Co has raised

$105 million in its first international share sale, exceeding its initial plan of $100 million.

The share sale was part of the bank's plan to recapitalize GTBank, meeting a Central Bank of Nigeria requirement to raise equity capital to 500 billion naira by March 2026.

The listing on the London Stock Exchange will help GTCO lure new investors and make it easier to raise funds in the future, with plans to deploy extra funds for growth and expansion over the next two years.

The announcement is coming a day after it announced in a regulatory filing the plans to raise $100million

new ordinary shares, proposed cancellation of Global Depository Receipts (GDRs) and admission of shares listings on the LSE.

On raising gross proceeds of $105 million, the Group General Counsel/Company Secretary, Mr. Erhi Obebeduo, in a signed statement posted on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), said a total of approximately 2.29 billion new ordinary shares in the company will be issued in US dollars at a reference price of N70.00 per share ($0.0459).

The stock price of GTCO on July 04, 2025, closed for trading at N83.20 per share on the NGX. He, however, noted that

concurrently with the offering announcement, the company also gave notice of its intention to cancel the listing of its existing GDRs on the certificates representing certain securities category of the official list of the United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the admission to trading of GDRs on the LSE’s main market for listed securities.

Obebeduo in his statement explained further that, “In place of the GDR listing, the company intends for all of the ordinary shares of the company to be admitted to the equity share (international commercial companies secondary listing) category of the official list of the FCA and to

trading on the main market for listed securities of the LSE.

“The offering is conditional upon, amongst other things, admission becoming effective and upon the underwriting agreement not being terminated in accordance with its terms.

“The company is not making any arrangements for dealing prior to admission in respect of the shares being issued in connection with the offering.

“It is expected that admission and unconditional dealing in the shares will become effective on or before 8:00 am (UK time) on July 9, 2025, under the ticket "GTHC ".

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

James Emejo in Abuja

LCCI AND BOI INNOVATION HUB INAUGURATION…

L-R: Vice President and Chairperson, Business Education Services and Training (BEST), Layo Bakare-Okeowo; Head of Research, Bank of Industry (BOI), Prof. Mutiu Oyinlola; President/Chairman of Council, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Mr. Gabriel Idahosa; Senior Vice President and Chief Corporate Services Officer, IHS Nigeria, Dapo Otunla, and former President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Onikepo Akande, at the inauguration of the LCCI-BOI Innovation Hub with IHS Nigeria held in Lagos… recently

Akpabio: Constitution Review Will Restructure Nigeria, Guarantee Justice and Unity

South-South stakeholders demand true federalism, equity, inclusion Sanwo-olu calls for state police as south-west seeks five additional states

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja and Segun

James in Lagos

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has declared that the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution by the National Assembly is a vital step toward restructuring Nigeria into a more just, equitable, and united federation.

This is as Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the South West Constitution review public hearing in Lagos called for the establishment of State police while traditional rulers in the zone called for constitutional roles as well as creation of additional five states from the zone.

Akpabio spoke at the SouthSouth Zonal Public Hearing on the Constitution Review held in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State. He described the exercise as a defining democratic moment, aimed at realigning Nigeria’s foundational charter with the evolving needs and aspirations of its people.

The public hearing was held simultaneously across five geopolitical

zones of the country.

Akpabio said, “This is not just a political ritual. It is a democratic rite. A solemn affirmation that in a democracy, every voice counts.

“We amend not to abandon, but to realign our national charter to the realities, dreams, and demands of Nigerians.”

In a statement from his Special Assistant on Media and Communication, Anietie Ekong, Akpabio emphasised that the constitutional review process is a show of strength and commitment to nation-building rather than a sign of weakness or discontent.

He said, “No constitution is eternal in its original form, just as no democracy is perfect.

“But in our collective pursuit of a more perfect union, lies the true strength of our democracy,” he added. Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, represented by Deputy Governor Senator Akon Eyakenyi, stressed that “the review process must move Nigeria closer to a restructured federation where equity, accountability, and efficiency reign.”

Lagos Prince Drags Govt to Court Over Disputed Osolo Throne

Wale Igbintade

A fresh legal tussle over the rightful occupant of the Osolo of Isolo throne has emerged at the Lagos State High Court, where Prince Jimmy Adetokunbo Yekini-Goloba has sued the Lagos State Government and others, challenging what he describes as the unlawful installation of Prince Isa Abiodun Shekoni-Faronbi as the traditional ruler of Isolo.

In the suit marked LD/13362/2005, Yekini-Goloba seeks a court declaration affirming him as the rightful successor to the throne based on the rotational arrangement among the three ruling houses in Isolo and the decision of the Alagbeji Ruling House, which he claims is next in line to produce the monarch.

The defendants include Prince Shekoni-Faronbi, the Executive Governor of Lagos State, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, the Chieftaincy Committee of Oshodi-Isolo Local Government, and the Executive Chairman of Oshodi-Isolo Local Government.

Represented by Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Prof. Olarenwaju Fagbohun, the

claimant is asking the court to nullify the nomination, approval, and installation of Shekoni-Faronbi and to compel the state government to recognise and install him as the new Osolo.

Yekini-Goloba claims that following the death of the late Oba Kabiru Alani Adelaja Agbabiaka (Adeola Olushi III) in April 2024, the Alagbeji Ruling House rightfully selected him as their candidate through a transparent voting process and in accordance with Ifa consultation.

He also asserts lineage to all three recognised ruling houses, Alagbeji, Okota, and Adeola — and argued that Shekoni-Faronbi’s appointment defied tradition and was made while a related suit was still pending in court.

He is also seeking an order compelling the withdrawal of all instruments of office, including the staff of office, from Shekoni-Faronbi and an award of N50 million as the cost of litigation.

Among the specific reliefs sought are: "A declaration that the Alagbeji Ruling House is next in line to produce the new Osolo of Isolo pursuant to the Registered Declaration under the Chiefs Law (Cap 19) of the Revised Law of Western Nigeria, 1962, as adopted in Lagos.

The Governor said, “This is more than a legislative procedure; it is a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

“For the South-South, this review must lead to a Nigeria where every federating unit flourishes and contributes meaningfully while feeling a true sense of belonging.”

Eno noted that the region’s longstanding calls for a restructured and inclusive Nigeria must be reflected in the outcome of the review.

Deputy Senate President and Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee, Senator Barau Jibrin, represented by Senator Aniekan Bassey, outlined key focus areas of the review.

“These include electoral reforms, judicial efficiency, local government autonomy, inclusion of traditional institutions in governance, gender equity, human rights, power devolution, and enhanced security architecture.

The hearing featured presentations from various interest groups advocating for state creation, local government autonomy, greater gender inclusion, and a defined role for traditional rulers.

Stakeholders at the forum called on the National Assembly to ensure that the constitutional amendment process translates into concrete reforms that will foster national unity, protect rights, empower communities, and strengthen Nigeria’s federal system.

Speaking at the South West public hearing of the review of the constitution held in Ikeja, Lagos, the Governor who was represented by his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat noted that the challenges facing the nation are significant and wide-ranging.

He listed the challenges as "the pursuit of genuine federalism and the devolution of powers; Empowering and enhancing our local governments; Establishing new states to bring governance closer to the people;

Reforming our electoral and judicial systems; Boosting the involvement of women and youth in our political landscape; Ensuring the security and welfare of our citizens, including the crucial discussion around state policing."

He maintained that issues go beyond just constitutional concerns; "they strike at the heart of what it means to be Nigerian. They reflect our shared aspiration for a fairer, more equitable, and thriving nation."

The Governor stressed that the security architecture of the nation can be most protected if the management of policy is devolved to the state.

Earlier, traditional rulers from the region had demanded for advisory roles in governance.

Speaking on their behalf, the Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Traditional Rulers Council and the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Kabir Sotobi, said that their role should be constitutionally recognised as it was

done at independence.

The deputy senate President Senator Barau Jibrin who was represented by the Senate Majority leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele said the Senate had received hundreds of memoranda addressing key issues that have not yet been resolved by the previous amendments, mainly due to a lack of national consensus and the evolving dynamics of modern governance.

Senator Jubrin said several key issues needed to be addressed which include electoral reforms and adjudication; judicial reforms focused on case management and administration; enhancements to local government administration; the involvement of traditional institutions in contemporary governance promoting human rights; ensuring gender equity and inclusion in governance; the devolution and distribution of powers; the structure of our federation; and concerns related to security and policing-

Ex-NDLEA Boss: Women Luring Husbands into Substance Abuse for Increased Libido

Linus Aleke in Abuja

Retired Deputy Commander General of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Sule Momodu, has revealed a troubling trend where women now introduce their husbands and conjugal partners to drug and substance abuse to boost their sexual libido.

He also disclosed that more and more young girls are indulging in the habit of smoking marijuana to increase their sexual libido.

The ex-Director of Technical Services at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency made this revelation while recounting his

experience as NDLEA state director in Anambra, Bauchi, and Katsina states.

Momodu, who was responding to questions after delivering a lecture titled "Effect of Drug and Substance Abuse on the Personnel of the Nigerian Army" at the Army War College Nigeria in Abuja, also emphasised the grave dangers associated with drug abuse, with particular reference to methamphetamine, otherwise known as "Mkpuru Mmiri," in Southeast Nigeria.

Quoting the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 2017, in his lecture, the retired NDLEA top cop said that one in four drug users in Nigeria is a woman.

He further stated that an estimated 10.8 million men and 3.4 million women reported drug use in 2017.

Outlining the negative impact of drug abuse on individual performance, Momodu said, "It decreases physical and mental fitness, impairs judgment and decision-making, reduces reaction time and mental fitness, increases risk-taking behaviour, and decreases reliability and trust among team members."

He concluded his lecture with a call for collective efforts to combat drug abuse and support those affected. "Together, we can create a healthier, safer community. It's time to take action. Let's work together

to prevent drug abuse and provide resources for those in need. While the consequences of drug abuse are significant, there is hope for recovery and healing. Let's support those on the path to recovery and provide resources for those in need. "Recovery is possible, and with the right support and resources, individuals can overcome addiction and thrive. Education is key to preventing drug abuse. By understanding the risks and consequences, we can make informed choices and promote healthier lifestyles. Let's prioritise education and awareness about drug abuse," Momodu concluded.

World Bank Appoints Mathew Verghis Country Director for Nigeria

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

The World Bank yesterday, announced the appointment of Mathew Verghis as its new Country Director for Nigeria, effective July 1, 2025. He succeeded Dr. Ndiame Diop, who has transitioned to a new role within the institution.

This was disclosed in a statement yesterday.

Verghis, an Indian national, brings over two decades of global experience in economic policy and development. He joined the World Bank in 1999 and has held senior leadership roles across Africa, East Asia, Europe, Central Asia, and most recently served as Regional Practice Director for Prosperity in the South Asia Region, based in Washington, D.C.

“This is a critical moment for

Nigeria’s development journey,” said Verghis. “I am honored to take on this role and to work alongside the government and people of Nigeria. There is real potential for transformative growth that can improve lives, create jobs, and expand opportunities for all. I’m also excited to experience firsthand the rich culture and incredible energy of Nigeria.”

As Country Director, Verghis

would lead the World Bank’s engagement in Nigeria, overseeing the Bank’s support for key development programs and strengthening collaboration with government, civil society, and development partners. Verghis holds an M.A. and Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Notre Dame, USA, and has written extensively on growth, poverty, fiscal policy, and labor markets.

GODWIN OMOIGUI.

WORLD AGRITOURISM FESTIVAL 2025...

Managing Director, Xtralarge Farms & Resort, Mrs. Moji Davids (left) and Executive Secretary/CEO, Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board, Mrs.

in Lagos…recently

Court Orders Akpoti-Uduaghan Recall

to Senate, Fines Her N5m for Contempt

Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja, yesterday, faulted the suspension of the Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, from the Senate and advised the red chamber to recall her.

However, Justice Nyako found the Senator guilty of contempt of court and, subsequently, fined her the sum of N5 million.

The judge also ordered her to tender a public apology in two national dailies, as well as on her Facebook page.

Justice Nyako made the order while delivering a ruling in a contempt charge filed against her by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.

Delivering judgement in the main suit, Nyako explained that the Acts and Rules of the National Assembly, including the Senate Rules, are all subject to the Constitution.

The judge, who held that the Rules/ Orders of the Senate empowers the Senate President to change the seat of any member of the Senate at will, faulted the leadership for breaching its own rules when it heard Akpoti-Uduaghan outside

the seat allocated to her, during the February plenary that resulted to the case before the court.

"Chapter three does not give any criteria as to how seats are allocated", Justice Nyako said, "She cannot speak until she is on the seat allocated to her.”

She added that the Senate and Akpabio should not have taken any step in her matter, since she was not sitting on the seat allocated to her.

Further faulting AkpotiUduaghan's suspension for six months, Justice Nyako observed that it was not the intention of the Constitution and the Senate Rules to take disciplinary actions against a member to the extent of denying the people of adequate representation.

According to her, the Senate has 181 days to sit in a year, including public holidays and weekends, therefore suspending a legislator for six months was more than excessive and deprives her constituents of adequate representation.

"Members can be sanctioned but it must not be excessive to the extent that it deprives the people she is representing," the judge held.

"The Senate should recall the plaintiff to enable her to continue to

Tinubu Rejoices With Olubadan at 90

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has rejoiced with His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akinloye Olakulehin (Ige Olakulehin I), on his 90th birthday on July 5 and the first anniversary of his coronation as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland on July 12.

The President, in a statement issued by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, stated that the monarch at 90 embodies the rare blend of age-old wisdom, service, and enduring leadership through decades of selfless dedication to nation-building and community development.

Tinubu joined the people of Ibadanland, the traditional institution, and all well-wishers across Nigeria and beyond in celebrating the remarkable life and legacy of a monarch whose reign has been characterised by wisdom, peace, and unwavering

commitment to his people's progress.

The President described Oba Olakulehin as a foremost traditional ruler, custodian of culture and tradition, and a revered elder statesman who has devoted his life to serving humanity and preserving Yoruba tradition, identity, and values.

"Your Imperial Majesty, Oba Olakulehin, as you mark nine decades of a life well lived in service, sacrifice, and stewardship, and on your first anniversary on the throne of your forefathers, we honour not only your longevity but also your immense contributions to community development and national unity. May your reign be peaceful, prosperous, and impactful," President Tinubu said.

The President prayed for strength, grace, sound health, and a longer life for Kabiyesi, while his throne continues to symbolise peace, prosperity, and pride for generations to come.

represent her people,” she added.

The Senate had on March 5, suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months, for allegedly breaching the rules of the Senate, for refusing to relocate to a new seat allocated to her in the red chamber.

Besides her refusal to vacate her seat for the new allottee, the Senator had engaged in argument with the Senate President, as well as laying allegations of sexual harassment against Akpabio.

Displeased with the decision of the leadership of the upper house, Akpoti-Uduaghan had approached the court to declare her suspension as unlawful and illegal.

Natasha had dragged the Clerk of the National Assembly, the Senate, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio and the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics,

Privileges, and Public Petitions, Senator Nedamwen Imasuen to court over her suspension from the Senate for six months.

The Senate predicated its action on alleged violations of its rules by the Kogi State federal lawmaker during a plenary of the red chamber in February.

However, while hearing of the suit was ongoing, Akpoti-Uduaghan published a satirical apology letter on her Facebook page, an act which the court said violated its April 4, order restraining all parties from speaking to the media in respect of the case.

Justice Nyako had ordered parties not to do anything that would affect the outcome of the case.

Following the publication of the satirical letter on her Facebook page, the Senate President had asked the

court to try Akpoti-Uduaghan for contempt and declined from further hearing of her suit challenging her suspension, if found guilty of contempt.

Delivering ruling before judgement in the substantive suit yesterday, the court held that the satirical apology letter, despite claim by the plaintiff that it bordered around sexual harassment allegations, still touched on the subject matter before her court.

“An order of court must be obeyed,” Nyako said, adding that an affected party that is not pleased with an order of court should appeal it.

Nyako, however, explained that Akpoti-Uduaghan could not be remanded because the contempt offence was in a civil proceeding, hence the fine.

In addition, the court explained that the offense was not weighty enough to warrant the court denying her hearing in the alleged unlawful suspension suit. The court also dismissed the respondents' objection to the suit on the grounds that the suit was preemptive, explaining that in a fundamental rights suit, an aggrieved person in anticipation of an unpleasant action can approach the court for redress.

In his final submission AkpotiUduaghan's lawyer, Michael Numan, SAN, urged the court to grant his client's relief by reversing the Senate Committee's decision. He also counters allegations of contempt of court.

The respondents however, challenged the jurisdiction of the court to hear the matter.

There is Need for More Study of Events Around June 12, Says Anya

Urges Tinubu to recognise Ayo Opadokun, others

Elder statesman and renowned scholar, Prof. Anya O. Anya, has emphasised the urgent need for a comprehensive and scholarly investigation into the events surrounding June 12 annulled election, describing it as a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey that remains insufficiently understood and appreciated. According to him, the lessons, sacrifices, and struggles that defined that historic date in 1993 must not be allowed to fade into obscurity or be reduced to mere political rhetoric. Speaking during an exclusive

interview with THISDAY, Anya underscored the importance of giving due recognition to key actors and unsung heroes of the June 12 movement, specifically calling for national honours to be bestowed on a chieftain of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), Ayo Opadokun and other frontline figures who, through their courage and conviction, laid the foundation for the return to civilian rule in 1999.

In commemoration of the annulment of the June 12 presidential election, President Bola Tinubu, last

month, honoured some activists for the roles they played within the period.

However, Anya lamented what he described as a growing generational disconnect with Nigeria’s democratic history, warning that without intentional documentation and public education, future generations may fail to grasp the significance of June 12.

“The one that surprises me is Ayo Opadokun, because he was the public face of NADECO for a long time. But nobody talks about the Council of Unity and Understanding (CUU), which was the parent body

of NADECO. We are talking about fidelity to history, it is very important. The people you see their names were the people who played the politics of June 12 on the pages of newspapers, not the people who did the quiet planning and the work.

“There ought to be a detailed study of the events of those days and to identify those who played key roles, not what the newspapers say. It is not as if the President is ignorant -in one or two of the meetings, he attended, although he was not part of the leadership.

Edo PDP, APC Biker Over Hosting of APC South- south Summit Days After

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and its counterpart the All Progressives Congress (APC) are at each others jugular over the hosting of APC’s South-south Summit.

Last week Saturday, the state governor rolled out the drums to host the APC Governors' Forum. Smarting out from that, the state government is hosting the South South leaders and Chieftains in Benin.

Governors' Forum

In a statement yesterday, the Edo PDP expressed worry that the state governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has now turned Edo into a theatrical jamboree, waste of public funds in a self-serving political gatherings. The statement endorsed by the Publicity Secretary of PDP’s Caretaker Committee, Chris Osa Nehikhare, which was made available to journalists yesterday, said the governor cannot deceive President Bola Tinubu and the Supreme Court into validating the 2024 governorship election for him. According to the party, barely days after squandering billions of scarce public funds to host the All Progressives Congress (APC) Governors Forum in Benin City, the governor is set to lavish another huge sums of money in hosting APC leaders for a "South-South

Alex Enumah in Abuja

'Bukola Agbaminoja, at the Xtralarge World Agritourism Festival 2025, held

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE WORKSHOP...

Days of Empty Promises, Abandoned Projects Over, President Declares

President Bola Tinubu has assured that the era of empty promises and abandoned projects across the nation had become a thing of the past. He said this yesterday, during the inauguration of the newly rehabilitated

Aguma Palace, Radio Nigeria, New Market Road in Gwagwalada Area Council.

The President, who was represented by Vice President Kasim Shetima, said his administration was not just building infrastructure, but building confidence in governance. He said his administration was

at Gwagwalada to rewrite history and change the narratives for rural dwellers, who had watched their dreams of inclusion delayed by excuses and who for too long had watched development happen from a distance.

The President said: “It is a reminder that no community under

this administration is too far to be seen and nobody is too pained to be heard. I am not only delighted to be in Gwagwalada today, “I am deeply fulfilled by what this business signifies, that we are steadily bridging the gap between promise and performance. What makes this moment even more remarkable is that the projects we

Police Dismantle Bubbling Drug Market Close to Defence Headquarters

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Commissioner of Police, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, Ajao Adewale, yesterday, said that the operatives of the command, in collaboration with other security agencies, have successfully dismantled the bubbling drug market located behind Agura Hotel, close to the Defence Headquarters in Abuja.

Adewale also revealed that the police apprehended a murderer/armed robber, Johnson Emole, a 23-year-old who specialises in luring ladies he met online to a hotel room.

Addressing a press conference on the

operational achievements of the command in the two months of May and June, at the Command Headquarters, in Abuja yesterday, the Commissioner of Police also disclosed that operatives of the command thwarted no fewer than five kidnapping incidents across communities in the FCT within the period under review.

He stressed that three kidnappers were apprehended with AK47 rifles, while three others succumbed to the superior firepower of the operatives during a gun battle in a community in the Bwari Area Council.

According to him, "Just on Thursday, the Command, in collaboration with other security agencies, was able to bring down

the drug market that was gradually growing behind Agura Hotel, in the UTC market area. Those shanties that had become drug dens have been brought down. And we have been able to restore some level of sanity in the general area.

"A visa syndicate was also busted within the same period. Acting on credible intelligence, the command raided an apartment at Aso Junction in Lugbe, where one Samuel Monday was arrested alongside two others. These guys had duped some innocent Nigerians of over N30 million. Fifteen victims were rescued from them, and we have been able to recover some of their money, while

the suspects are currently awaiting trial.

"We also apprehended a notorious phone snatcher on June 23, 2025, following a distress call. Police officers attached to the Galadima Division arrested one Usman Tijani, who lives in Dei-Dei. The suspect specialises in snatching expensive phones. During the arrest, an iPhone 15 belonging to the victim was recovered from him. In a follow-up search of his house, another 19 iPhones were recovered, along with 11 power banks belonging to different victims."

Adewale also stated that the command foiled five separate armed robbery attempts in the FCT within the period under review.

NEPC Debunks Allegations of Civil Service Breaches in Forthcoming Promotion Exams

The Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has debunked allegations of a breach of civil service rules in the forthcoming promotion examinations at the council.

The allegations were described as “egregious and blatant misinformation and a poor understanding of how promotion examinations are conducted in the civil service.”

In a statement signed by the Director, Policy and Strategy, at the NEPC, Lawal Shehu Dalhat, they stressed that, “one person, ED/CEO or not, cannot unilaterally promote staff.”

The Director emphasised that, “it was important to provide clarification regarding the exercise scheduled to take place from July 9 to 11, 2025, because there is nothing to hide”

before describing the allegations leveled against the council and its ED/CEO as a “shocking and unkind miscarriage of justice.”

According to the statement, “Mrs. Ayeni has been accused and convicted of an offence which, according to the publication of July 2, 2025, she is planning to commit seven days after she has been found guilty.”

The rest of the statement,

which went ahead to provide a comprehensive explanation of the process of conducting promotion examinations in the civil service and the success of previous exercises, stated:

“To put things in context, last year, 74 members of staff of the Council sat for promotion examinations from 3-4 April, 2024 which ran all day up until past midnight. 49 passed and were promoted.

Ohaji Group Protests Oil Company’s Alleged Exploitation, Demands Justice

The people of Ohaji, under the banner of the Ogbako Ohaji People’s Forum, have staged a peaceful protest against Sterling Global Exploration and Production Limited (SGEPL), an oil and gas company, accusing the company of environmental devastation, economic marginalisation, and human rights violations in the region. A statement yesterday, revealed that the protest, which took place in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State, drew large crowds including youth groups, women’s associations, and community leaders. It was led by the leadership of Ogbako Ohaji and reinforced by a rousing address from the Forum’s

are unveiling were not imposed from above.

“They were nominated by the people of Gwagwalada themselves and this is the kind of democracy we believe in. One that listens, one that responds, and one that delivers. We are not just rehabilitating roads, we are rehabilitating trust”.

He described the transformation unfolding across the federal capital territory as the product of deliberate reforms and the bold reform-orientated policies of the administration, adding that by expanding the revenue base of the FCT, the administration was also investing in roads, schools, hospitals and people.

Tinubu noted that from rehabilitated health care centres to improved learning environments for children, from safer roads to a more responsible public service, the FCT was undergoing a very quiet revolution enabled by people, led by

FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, who refused to accept mediocrity. He also hailed the FCT minister as one of the most colourful politicians in the Nigerian political landscape and as someone who threw some jibes at the opposition parties.

“I thank him for proving that disruption is not a threat to order, but a requirement for progress. Honourable Minister, Mr. President is mightily proud of your accomplishments. And of course, your political sagacity and your no-holds-barred attitude.

“You don't hold prisoners, you fight on whatever the cost. This road will do more than easy movement of people and goods. It will make this community safer.

“It will improve access to education and health care. It will unlock economic potential, especially for rural dwellers. We are determined to ensure that development is not a privilege reserved for the few, but a right enjoyed by all,” he said.

Flutterwave Secures 20 More US Money Transmitter Licences

Flutterwave, Africa’s leading payments technology company, yesterday, announced the relaunch of its flagship remittance solution, Send App, across U.S. states following its newly acquired Money Transmitter Licences (MTLs).

This comes after Flutterwave secured 20 additional MTLs in the U.S., adding to the 14 licenses the brand has held since 2023.

Altogether, this achievement raises Flutterwave’s total number of direct licenses to 34, allowing the company to operate across many U.S. states and territories without partners or intermediaries.

Users in the U.S. can now send money to Nigeria, Ghana and Egypt, unlocking new remittance corridors that were previously unavailable, a statement explained.

Alongside this expansion, the on-boarding process has been streamlined with a quick ID check, making it faster and easier for new users to get started.

regulatory-compliant user experience for all Send App customers in the U.S. Users can now send money from DC, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, Michigan, South Carolina, Tennessee.

Other U.S. states and territories where Send App by Flutterwave supports outward remittances include Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Maine, Minnesota, Mississippi, and Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

Chairman, Chief Fidelis C. Enyia, who decried the company’s activities as destructive and exploitative.

They alleged that Sterling Global’s operations had led to widespread pollution, degraded ecosystems, and public health crises.

“The demonstration also spotlighted the unjust arrest of Obinna Nwagbo, a local youth leader, whose detention has become a symbol of the community’s broader struggle,” it added.

The Chairman’s speech began by acknowledging the anguish felt by the people of Ohaji, noting that, “for years, Sterling Global’s oil and gas exploration activities have wreaked havoc on the region’s environment, livelihoods, and well-being.”

Additional improvements include optimised payment support for US-issued Visa and Discover cards, enhanced security measures to safeguard transactions and maintain compliance, and improved in-app flows for a simpler, more efficient sending experience.

This return also highlights Flutterwave’s commitment to delivering a seamless, secure, and

Commenting on the relaunch, Flutterwave Founder and CEO, Olugbenga Agboola said, “By expanding our reach and enhancing our services, we are empowering millions of Africans in the U.S. to maintain strong financial ties with their home countries, support their families, and contribute to economic development across the continent. Additionally, we are staying true to our core mission of bridging Africa with the global economy and vice versa.”

Earlier this year, Flutterwave integrated Swap into Send

Deji Elumoye and Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Oluchi Chibuzor

L-R: Professor of Journalism and Media Sociology and HOD, Department Chairman of Mass Communication, University of Nigeria, Nsu kka, Prof. Michael Ukonu; Principal System Analyst UNN Lecturer, Department of Computer and Robotics Education, UNN, Dr. Chukwuma Mgboji; the Chairman, State House Press Corps, Dr. Anule Emman uel, and Commissioner for the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change in Enugu State, Prof. Sam Ugwu Chijioke, during the SHPC two-day capacity building retreat and workshop held in Enugu, State .... yesterday

GODWIN OMOIGUI.

NHEA LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD...

Obi: Nigeria Still in Dark Due to Neglect of Education

The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi, has blamed Nigeria’s underdevelopment on the government’s failure to invest in education. He described education as the real engine of national growth.

Obi made the statement during a visit to St. John Vienney Science College, Ukwulu, Anambra State, where he celebrated the school’s recent international science victory in a competition held in June 2025.

He said: “The biggest asset of any nation is its people —

human capital. And the most meaningful investment is in education.

"No nation can develop without prioritising learning. If oil made a country rich, Venezuela would be the richest in the world. They have ten times more oil than Nigeria. But it’s not about oil — it’s about knowledge."

Obi also presented a N10 million cheque to the school, in commendation for the students’ recent feat in winning in a UKNigeria debate competition, after defeating several international schools.

He urged them to continue

Al-Makura: I’ll Do Any Job, Even Clean Tables for Tinubu to Become APC Chairman

Former Governor of Nasarawa State and a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC),Tanko Al-Makura, has expressed his willingness to serve as the party’s chairman.

Al-Makura, while responding to a question on a television interview, said he was an incurable and committed party member ready to do the president’s bidding. He said he withdrew his bid for the APC chairmanship in 2022 out of respect for the party’s decision to adopt a consensus arrangement at the time.

“If Mr President, as the leader of this country, tells me that ‘AlMakura, I want you to come to my office and dust my table every

Monday, that is what pleases me, that is what I feel will make the party and this country progress,’ I can assure you that I will make it a date that every Monday at that appointed time. I will come, dust the table, and go.

“I will be satisfied that I have done what the president wants. That is the level of my commitment and loyalty to a leader.”

Al-Makura is from Nasarawa, one of the States in the North-central seeking to produce the next APC National Chairman, following the resignation of Abdullahi Ganduje last month.

Al-Makura governed Nasarawa from 2011 to 2019.

NHEA 2025: Minister Hails Stakeholders over Innovations, Impact in Healthcare Sector

Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako has given thumbs up to stakeholders in the Nigerian healthcare sector for their resilience and innovative impacts in the nation’s economy.

Speaking at the 11th Nigerian Healthcare Excellence Awards held in Lagos recently, Dr. Salako praised the winners for setting new standards in the sector.

‘’Tonight, we witnessed proof that our health sector is rich with talents, innovation, and resilience. These winners are the foundation of a strong health system,’’ he said. Chairman of the NHEA Advisory Board, Dr. Anthony Omolola, who expressed his delight at the milestone the awards initiative has achieved, said the project will continue to encourage culture of

quality innovation as part of its commitment to driving quality healthcare in the country.

“We are not just handing out awards—we are reinforcing a culture of quality, competitiveness, and commitment to saving lives.”

According to the organisers, the 2025 edition, themed ’Collaborating for impact: Strengthening Health Systems through the SWAp Approach, received over 25, 000 nominations and thousands of public votes. The impressive records reflect the growing engagement and public trust in the healthcare sector, they said. The event spotlighted outstanding individuals and institutions advancing excellence across the healthcare ecosystem in Nigeria.

working hard, saying education is the only sure way to become great and outstanding in life. He also criticised various

governments for neglecting vital sectors.

He praised the school’s proprietor, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel

Obimma, for doing what government should be doing.

“This is the problem with Nigeria — our leaders are too

busy celebrating, consuming, and wasting everyone’s time. We thank God for people like you," Obi said.

Nigerian, Chinese Firms to Build 10 Embroidery Hubs for Youth Empowerment

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

Ten hubs are to be created nationwide to boost the nation’s creative sector especially in the areas of embroidery and further empowers the youth across the country.

This is a collaboration of Embroidery Chief and two leading Chinese embroidery machine manufacturers, Dahao and Futong, Speaking during the unveiling at a stakeholders’ engagement themed “Stitching the Future: Building Sustainable Embroidery Businesses in Africa,” the Founder of Embroidery

Chief, Mr. Lukman Abdulsalam, said that the initiative is designed to empower young Nigerians with practical embroidery and fashion design skills that can be turned into profitable ventures.

According to him, the project launched in partnership with leading Chinese embroidery machine manufacturers Dahao and Futong, will begin with the establishment of innovation hubs in 10 states, including Lagos and Kano. Each hub will be equipped with 50 embroidery machines, offered at subsidised rates to make them accessible to young

entrepreneurs. Abdulsalam noted that training programmes will run in three phases: one month for design, two weeks for machine operation, and one month for technical repairs.

He said that many young Nigerians already possess natural creativity but lack the technical skills to fully express and monetise their talent.

Abdulsalam said: “The purpose of this gathering is to raise awareness about key issues in the fashion industry, how individuals can upscale, identify existing gaps, and connect with the right people and

opportunities.

“We aim to collaborate with the government, which is why we have key stakeholders here today. Our plan is to establish hubs in about 10 states. Each hub will receive approximately 50 embroidery machines, and we will train end users on machine operation, technical support, and digital design creation.

“This initiative will begin with 10 states as a pilot. We are committed to empowering individuals by providing these machines at subsidised rates, making them affordable for emerging entrepreneurs.

NMCN Inducts 365 Foreign-trained Nurses into Profession

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) has inducted 365 foreign-trained nurses into the profession as they graduated from 15 foreign institutions and completed their adaptation program in 10 Nigerian universities offering Bachelor of Nursing Science degree programs.

The Acting Registrar of NMCN, Alhassan Ndagi, while speaking with the media at the 14th induction ceremony of foreign trained nurses who passed the 2025 professional examination in general nursing in Abuja, said the council is committed to promoting and maintaining excellence in nursing and medical education and practice in Nigeria, in line with global best practices.

He disclosed that the Council ensures

that foreign-trained nurses fulfill all mandatory requirements and attain base standards that enable them to practice nursing in Nigeria and beyond.

"The inductees came from various countries, including the Niger Republic, with 148 candidates, followed by Cameroon with 79 candidates, Ghana with 55 candidates, India with 24 candidates, the Philippines with 14 candidates, Cyprus with 12 candidates, Sudan with 10 candidates, Turkey with nine candidates, Egypt with five candidates, and Iran with four candidates. There was also one candidate each from China, Georgia, Kenya, Liberia, and Uganda.

The universities where they attended their adaptation programs in Nigeria include Bayero University Kano, University of Ilorin, University of Sokoto, University of Port Harcourt,

and University of Ibadan, among others. Ndagi emphasised the importance of these nurses being exemplary ambassadors of the nursing profession, demonstrating humility, discipline, and respect in their interactions with the public.

He advised them to let kindness and compassion guide their care for all patients, practice within their scope, in accordance with the highest ethical standards of the profession, and uphold the fundamental responsibilities of a professional nurse.

He also encouraged the inductees to embrace lifelong learning, explore opportunities for self-development, and acquire higher degrees to ascend in the nursing profession.

Dr. Ganiyu Oladokun, who represented the Registrar of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN). In his remarks, emphasised the importance

Magnus Onyibe Celebrates Daughter, Sopuluchukwu

Sopuluchukwu, the daughter of renowned public policy analyst and media columnist Magnus Onyibe, is being celebrated by her father for successfully completing a Master’s degree in Financial Innovation and Technology (MFIT) from the prestigious Queen’s University in Canada.

A software engineer with the SunLife Group in Canada, Sopuluchukwu had previously earned a degree in Computer Science from the University of Guelph, also in Canada. Now equipped with an MFIT degree, she has become proficient in both finance and technology—an exceptional combination of skills in

today’s digital economy where financial innovations drive business transformation.

Although she completed the program in December last year, her graduation ceremony was held on Thursday, June 26.

In attendance were her mother, Helen, and her younger sister, Ebubechukwu, who currently works in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in Los Angeles, California, and is preparing to begin law school in California in the next academic session.

A celebratory dinner was held in her honor at Muni Robata, a Japanese restaurant in downtown Toronto. Friends of Sopuluchukwu praised her hard

work, determination, and resilience in completing the demanding program with distinction.

During the dinner, her father, Magnus Onyibe, reminded her that “the reward for hard work is more work,” and encouraged her to consider pursuing a PhD in Artificial Intelligence (AI).

His suggestion was met with a mix of applause and gentle resistance. However, he emphasized that the decision ultimately rests with Sopuluchukwu, expressing full confidence in her ability to critically evaluate her options and make the choice that best aligns with her goals.

of fostering strong inter-professional relationships among healthcare providers. He encouraged nurses to collaborate closely with medical doctors, medical laboratory scientists, pharmacists, and other allied health professionals to enhance the quality and efficiency of healthcare delivery across the country. Oladokun reaffirmed the MDCN's commitment to upholding high standards of medical practice in Nigeria. He noted that the Council continues to strengthen its regulatory framework to ensure that healthcare services meet the expectations and needs of the Nigerian population. According to him, effective regulation is central to achieving excellence in patient care and maintaining public trust in the health sector.

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

L-R: Lagos Commissioner of Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi; MD of Krown Hospital, Dr. Olukayode Akinlade; his daughter, and Chairman, NHEA Advisory Board, Dr. Anthony Omolola, after Akinlade received his Lifetime Achievement Award at the NHEA 2025…recently

Criminals in the Name of Culture

As the Giant of Africa, Nigeria bears enormous responsibility for culture and tradition on the African continent. In a world where civilization and modernization are taking over everything else, Africa has remained a bastion of culture and tradition. But as piercing as the realization that Africa offers the last opportunity to save and preserve what is left of culture and tradition is also the unmistakable discovery that some things done in the name of culture and tradition have become clearly harmful and antithetical to the dreams and aspirations of any serious-minded society.

In a disturbing incident in Enugu State, some masquerades supposedly celebrating the Oriokpa masquerade inflicted bodily harm on some members of the public. Also, a couple of weeks ago, some masquerade traditionalists invaded the home of an Imam and a mosque in Oke Agbe, Akoko North Local Government Area of Edo State. They beat up his wives and children.

The government must move in to stop a repeat, as such unsightly incidents cannot be allowed to reoccur in the name of adherence to culture. Those who hide under dirty masks and costumes to perpetrate terror are not representative of any culture. They are criminals. It is as simple as that. Those who hide behind dirty disguises to terrorize other citizens do not stand for what culture and tradition mean.

They are cri minals and must be stopped. It is people like them who give culture and tradition a bad name, hastening in the process the loss of what is otherwise invaluable to society.

The government must step in and firm up the regulations. There should be control and most importantly, there should be accountability from those who wear the regalia of culture. It is unfortunate that these days, culture, and tradition have become synonymous with criminality, no, thanks to the activities of some unscrupulous individuals. Ritual killers now hang on to the coattails of culture to take life in incredibly cruel ways. Those who mint and print blood money somehow draw their paint from culture. Kidnappers and bandits also appear to have found some justification and fortification in

culture and tradition, forcing the government in a state like Anambra to take charge and clamp down, further giving culture a bad name. The move has not been very popular, but many consider it necessary, even inevitable. Culture is not bad in itself. There is nothing shameful or abhorrent in upholding culture. A people’s way of life is often among their most prized assets because in it is ingrained their identity and the very sense of history and prosperity. It is worth preserving. But not at the expense of peace, tolerance, law, and order which foreground every civilized society.

It is important that Nigerians cling to their culture. But it is even more important that the rights of others are respected while doing so. Respect for culture and tradition must exist alongside the overwhelming realization and recognition that culture can only thrive in a society where there is law and order Nigerians must also endeavor to do away with those cultures of death that diminish life, oppress women and leave behind the ugly marks of marginalization and brutalization.

Ike Willie-Nwobu, Ikewilly9@gmail.com

In Praise of Muhammad Haliru Arabo

Whatever is used as measurement of success would see the executive chairman of Lafia Local Government, Nasarawa State, Hon. Muhammad Haliru Arabo qualified as excellent. His has performed beyond the expectation of the masses. He has managed the little resources available effectively by providing the basic necessity of life to the people of Lafia Local Govt. He has empowered the youths educationally by donating textbooks, exercise books, mathematical sets, and other essential items to students of the council. He built schools and equipped them, including with computers. Indeed, he purchases both GCE and NECO forms for students.

Many bad roads in Lafia local govt are now motorable. He also built healthcare and recreation centres for the masses. He did not leave any stone unturned in the area of security, providing the people with a new lease of life after years of living in fear. He provided jobs for the youth in the area, and built markets at affordable prices for market women and men in the council. Arabo is building an enviable record that will be difficult to surpass. Without doubt, he deserves compensation with a bigger office in 2027

Anjorin Adeolu, Nasarawa State

Do What You Say to Do

THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

EDITOR OBINNA CHIMA

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EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN

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THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED

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GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, EMMANUEL EFENI

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE

DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI

SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH

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

IIt’s not considered proper to speak poorly of the dead but the truth should still be told. Jimmy Swaggart spoke loudly, and profitably, about his religious beliefs and encouraged others to follow his example. The problem was that his example included his close, very close, association with a number of ‘fallen women’ although he did admit “I have sinned”, after this became public knowledge. It would be interesting to see how he explains this when he gets to the Pearly Gates.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia

The real game is on..

Kesley

Ezekwo:

Funding, Feeding Were My Greatest Headaches in My Student Days

You will think him taciturn until he starts talking. He never raises his voice but is as stubborn as a mule on any issue he wants to delve into out of his usual conviction. Kesley Kenechukwu Ezekwo feels his calling is to fight injustice and that, mostly for the weak. He has come to be the face of widows fighting dispossession, and most or almost all the cases he does pro bono. A lawyer and real estate giant whose stake in the sector measures in billions, he took Ahamefula Ogbu through his struggles of life where he ate from the ample pie of lacking in resources but has finally conquered poverty and is a beacon for the helpless. From his checkered childhood to being a gentle giant, he appreciates everything African and enjoys his village, Umuchiu more than any other part of the world…excerpts

Did you set out to be a lawyer, was it your childhood ambition?

Yes, it was my ambition to be a lawyer because it is a platform I felt will help me fight for people’s rights and help the needy; that I see that would help me much, so I had to pursue that after eight years of leaving secondary school.

How and where were you born and under what circumstances?

I was born in Orlu, Imo State, where my father was working. He said it was not a planned thing because they used to space two to three years. I would not say it was an accident but sheer divine providence that I was conceived and they did not have any alternative than to go ahead, they knew within them that something remarkable would happen with that pregnancy and had to go through that process.

What kind of child were you, pliable or troublesome?

I was told that I used to fight, especially if anyone offends my siblings, my senior ones, I used to fight on their behalf. Apart from that, I stayed with my Aunty in Onitsha and I did all my chores and duties although a child must be a child. I was an obedient child

What indelible punishment do you recall growing up?

In Onitsha then, every Sunday, we used to go to Sunday School Class and that was an opportunity for me and my friends to go to River Niger to swim. We lived in Fegge, one street away from River Niger and my Aunty used to use the Sunday school to tie us down. So what I normally do is to go to Sunday School, find out the lesson of the day and still go and meet my friends for us to go and swim at River Niger and to eat fruits, it was mainly mango. I didn’t know how my aunt found out. Because I usually cram what the lesson is so when she asks if I was in Sunday School, I will say yes and recite the memory verse and what I had already crammed. Once you can do that, it is proof that you were in there. Although somebody had already told her that I do go out with those people because, truth be told, we jumped fence to go. Of course, she won’t believe it because I know the lesson and memory verse and once she asks me I will be able to explain. They told her specifically that they saw me and I was part of the team. They used to punish others without punishing me because I used to prove that I wasn’t there. But that day, she insisted when we got home and asked me questions from the lesson that I did not know. That day she flogged the hell out of me and I can never forget that incident and that was the last day I went to swim in River Niger. Imagine I was thinking I was smart but I don’t know how she found out, I can’t forget that day. Unfortunately, one of us who used to go for that swimming later drowned there.

Which schools did you attend and what were your experiences?

I attended Niger City Primary School, Fegge, Onitsha. It was a good school where we had a fence with St John’s Anglican Church so they watched over us. I attended Dennis Memorial Grammar school, DMGS, although I spent three months in Umuchu High School in year one but I didn’t fit in so I had to go back Onitsha. Then in common entrance, you must choose your town school so I found myself in Umuchu High School, then Umuchu Boys and I stayed for just first term and I didn’t even finish the first term and I relocated to DMGS. After that I got admission to study English at University of Port but because of funds, I didn’t go and about three years later in 1992, I got another admission to Nnamdi Azikiwe University to study Law but it didn’t work out because of funding again before I finally went to University of Lagos to study Law and then to law school Enugu campus.

How did you sort out the funding issue when you finally went to UNILAG to study Law?

Jesus Christ!I always want to share that experience, even from my university days, it wasn’t easy because if not for some friends that saw me through, encouraged me, someone like Austin Ezendu that encouraged me and sometimes give me stipends, I wouldn’t have made it through. I had to work at Idumota first in the morning and bike straight to UNILAG, sometimes missing my lectures or meeting them halfway, and sometimes work with the transport section of an Ezekwo

I Give Back to Society by Fighting Injustice for the Downtrodden

importer shuttling between school and work. I had to work and save money for two years before I could save enough money to buy the JAMB form, write the exam, and go to UNILAG and pay my fees. If not for God first, I would not have succeeded because the greatest problem I had was feeding. Yes, you can get books from the library but you need to eat before you study; so feeding was my greatest challenge. Even after graduating, I couldn’t go to Law School immediately because of funding, school fee of about N80, 000 so I had to go and work with a clearing agent, Pablo for a year. It was in that process that I was lucky and my name came out again and I had saved up money for the law school, Enugu Campus. There were three levels of feeding in law school for the rich, middle class, and the lower grades, where you could eat without meat. For me, I was eating Okpa and drinking water, I could not join my mates for parties because the little money I had to eat, I could not use to transport myself to town where they used to have parties. The day we graduated I had to leave by night bus to avoid spending part of the money for my transport back to Lagos. That notwithstanding, we packaged a lot as if we belonged. My case is proof to people that no matter the field you find yourself, if you are focused and determined, you can achieve anything in life, the only thing is that you go through stages of difficulties, challenges, but that determination with God by your side, you will excel. In my own case, God saw me through.

Did lack of funds not push you into temptation to indulge in sharp practices to make ends meet?

Not at all. You know these days people say there no this or that that’s why they are not exceling, See, difficulty is not an excuse for you to commit any crime, after all those days I see people drop money in hostels and all that yet it didn’t move me, it wasn’t my own and if it was God will give it to me. Hunger or hardship will never make someone who has a relationship with God to soil his hands. It is just like those young girls now doing hookup because they feel they are suffering; it is a lie, there are so many things they can do, technology has even made things easier now. There are a lot of things one can do online to earn a living. There are lots of youths doing online business and content creation, online marketing, they go to offices and still make ends meet. Then I use to work in Idumota, No. 2 Hull Street where we use to load something. People will buy goods, we package it, put it in a scale and they pay us one naira and sometimes five kobo and we were saving the money because I believe in the philosophy of saving for you to grow, so anybody that says it is because things are difficult that he is into crime, it is his decision to do it ; It has never come to me, all I believe is that if I don’t have money I will not be able to eat so I try and work hard and save up. I will always want to have a plan that if what I do does not work this year, it will work next year, always give yourself a plan say in the next five or 10 years and if you follow it the way it is there is no way God will not see you through.

What is your philosophy of life?

I believe in to do good to others especially that anybody you cannot help, don’t compound the person’s problem. I believe in doing good and good begets good, evil begets evil. If you can’t help humanity, don’t oppress or suppress human beings.

What do you consider your best moment in life so far?

Three things, apart from being called to the bar as a lawyer which was my life ambition and good memory was the day I had my first child, October 2nd. Each time I remember that, I always know that it is a moment that I will cherish forever though I have my three kids, October 2nd 2016, September 24, 2009 and 17th September 2011, these days, each time I remember I feel the Lord is good to me. I don’t think there is anything again in life that will give me that joy. The birth of my daughter especially because something happened that day. I was called that my wife was in the hospital and when I got there I was told she had delivered but I could not see her or my wife. The nurses showed me children lined up and asked if I knew which one was my child and I said no. When I was entering the place something happened, one of the children smiled at me so when the nurses asked me if I know the cloth the mother came with to deliver and I said yes and when we checked, it was the child that smiled at me when I entered that was my daughter. It gave me unforgettable joy.

What do you consider as your saddest moment in life so far?

30th May 2018 was the day I lost my mom. It was just like ehm… would I say she didn’t plan to die? I

Ezekwo

just spoke to her and everything was fine the next thing they said was that she was no more and I said it was a lie, how can somebody I just spoke with just die. I asked them to show me on video and she was just there still moving, maybe that was on my mind because I didn’t want her to die and I told them not to put her in the mortuary. They had to keep her from around 9 o’clock till around 5 even when they had certified her dead. It wasn’t a good moment for me, it was a moment I don’t like to remember at all. She was a very good woman and I believe that things would have been better were she still around because she used to pray for me and now I have to pray for myself. My mom is someone who will call me and say we are going to do midnight prayers and will recharge her phone and call me and pray from midnight till 5 am for someone going to work the next day and she will say God will sustain you. Though she is no longer praying for me, my wife also does that a lot, she did a lot in that direction of building up my spiritual growth.

So ordinarily you can say you were closer to your mom than your Dad?

Sure you know men would like to force you to do things their own way while my mother would like to correct, you your father would want it to be done his own way and some of us who from infancy knew our rights and want to assert it, if you do, punishment will come if you don’t do it your dad’s way, punishment will come but your mother would want to correct you so I have had soft spot for her because I believe that she is a very nice woman.

Have you had any near life experience?

That was on 1st July 2018, when I was coming back from my mother’s burial, we had a fatal accident, that was three weeks after committing my mother to the earth when I was coming from Umuchu to Lagos, four of us were in the vehicle; we survived despite the pains and challenges. Another was in December 22, 2024, another accident, this time with my family. Both of them were bad, especially the second one, because I was with my wife and two kids, but no one died. it was bad, and they are very bad memories I have.

How did you meet your wife?

I saw her first at the outing service of my cousin’s mother December 27, 1993 after the outing service of my cousin’s mother I was among the people that were trying to move to the house, so when I finished, I came out and saw two young girls that said they were going to the house but there was no vehicle so I had to trade my place for them and trekked to the house so when I went home they came to say thank you for what I had done for them, for sacrificing my space for them. And then next time was when they were looking for someone to help them with their JAMB and I was there to do it. Later on I saw her in Lagos, this time more mature and from there we

you will always encounter that. The only factor that can save a man from that is the fear of God because we want to make heaven and you are told if you do those things you won’t make heaven and some of us have realised that there is a life after here and you want to make heaven and we are told that it is not good that after enjoying everything here, you miss heaven like the story of Lazarus and the rich man. The rich man after enjoying life on earth died and was suffering. It is basically the fear of God and then the type of woman you have as a wife that is another thing, if your wife is good to you, you know what men need is not food or sex but respect, when your wife respects you and you have fear of God. With good character from a wife like I have, they use it to tie us and keep us in one place.

What do you consider your guilty pleasure?

I travel a lot. I don’t smoke, I don’t snuff or gamble. I like to go to a place and relax and have a good time especially to my village, Umuchu, it is the nicest place in the world where I can relax without worries, where I don’t need medication to sleep. I tell people that if not for insecurity, I will prefer to always visit my place. For someone like me, that’s the best place in the world, I have visited all parts of the world and my village is still the best place.

What do you consider your greatest earthly possession?

Life. Anything you have in the world without life is useless. No matter what you have, without life it is useless

Apart from life which is general what do you consider your priciest earthly possession? My kids, my family, I can’t trade them for anything in this world.

became friends but there was no relationship o. I told her that I know for sure that I will marry her I told her to at least give me 10 years, I will marry you and she said I had to tell her mom and I had to follow her to go and tell her mom. The Mom said no, they don’t marry like that, that I should bring my people. I did that and after about 10 years and I kept to my words. The rest is history and we are where we are now.

Were there distractions?

Definitely there were a lot of distractions. One thing about me is that I always try to keep my words and one thing about her, if you meet her you will know that she is worth waiting for. There is one article that I wrote and described her as source of my inspiration and most people who know us know about it. Till today, her younger sister cannot address me without putting those words, source of inspiration. She was worth anything and I saw her as a battle I must conquer because her parents, especially the Dad and the uncles were against it. I was even threatened not to try it, it was a war but because I felt it was a challenge and I had never told any woman that I will marry her till today so that particular one, I even told her that even if they kill me in the process it is good at least before they kill me I must marry you and thank God I fulfilled my promise and desire. The people kept bringing men from outside trying to entice her. At a point after her first year I had to bring her to Lagos closer to me in UNILAG to reduce that pressure and we succeeded and look at us today. I know and was convinced but look at me, a man who did not have any money, did not have anything but I was determined but I believe in one thing, whatever we say with our mouth with conviction must surely come to pass. Once I saw her I told her I will marry you, I did not mince words, I told her I will and I did. She thought it was a joke. It took her like five years to see her father especially who was in another camp. They are eight and the father and her uncles were in one camp while the mother with her siblings were in my own camp, it was a battle. The father and the uncles and sisters were against it and in another camp and also the elderly ones. It got to a point where we had to argue this thing, at a point it was as if the marriage was between me and their kindred, they would not agree and we too didn’t agree but anything that God has said yes, nothing can change it. What I saw then, the elderly ones didn’t and finally it worked and I have never regretted anything at all.

So there has never been challenges in your marriage?

None

As a successful man women will always flock around you, how do you deal with seductions? That is inevitable for any man that can feed himself, if you are able to take care of yourself, pay your bill,

You are known to might for weaker parties in conflicts especially helping oppressed widows, what informed that?

It is part of the reason that I studied law, to fight for people especially in a society where people don’t have those that will fight or defend them. For example in Igbo land when a man dies the wife and the children become victims, sometimes they will even accuse the woman of killing their brother so that they can dispossess them and push them away to enjoy the husband’s wealth. Although it is general but I am using Igboland to cite example or as reference point, for someone like me, I don’t think it is right for the woman to be pushed out or for anyone to be made to suffer. Under such circumstances our office, Magna Chambers will handle the matter and ensure justice is done. We also have Chukwuka Foundation which does the sponsorship of such cases. The foundation brings the money to pursue the case while Magna Chambers handles it legally. I hate injustice. We do that as a way of giving back to society and as a way to thank God for what He has done in my life as a lawyer, so I use that opportunity to bring happiness or make other families happy. Majority of the cases we handle we do so on pro bono basis that is the purpose to study law.

Do you have Political ambition?

Not at all but everybody believed I have, especially in my area because of what I do and I am close to a lot of politicians who come to my house. In my early days of life, I thought of joining politics to serve but with what is going on now, which it is being run as a business and I don’t see politics as business. Except for people like His Excellency, Peter Obi who changed a lot of things especially in my state where we never knew of good governance until he came to effect the change. Obi’s performance is what would have made me to consider it a bit but I heard someone on social media saying if you want to be a Senator you will spend N2 billion and N1.5 billion for House of Reps and N500 million for House of Assembly member so how do you recover the money and how much id your salary? I don’t think any of them is more than N3 million, If I bring out N100 million to invest I will at least make like 60 per can’t profit so I see politics as service to humanity not business and I can’t join. That’s why you see EFCC virtually on their neck, all of them except Peter Obi has been challenging people to come out if they have anything against him. It is better for me as a private person touching people lives than to be a politician without touching their lives because if I use so much money to get into an office I will have to recover the money but I won’t join but I wish we were in a saner society with the right values, I would have joined to serve but now, no.

LIFESTYLE

Tunde Ayeye: Integrity, Hard Work, Discipline, Delayed Gratification Keys to My Succes

In a society where instant success is often glorified, the founder and Executive Chairman, International Facilities Services Group, Dr. Tunde Ayeye, stands out as a refreshing voice of principle and patience. A medical doctor turned entrepreneur, Ayeye has built a formidable business empire in Nigeria’s facility management space, not by chasing quick wins, but by laying one block at a time. His journey is anchored on timeless values, integrity, hard work, discipline, and delayed gratification, which he not only lives by but actively imparts to the younger generation he mentors. Ayeye shares the philosophy behind his rise, stressing the importance of earning before spending, staying focused amid distractions, and building a life and career that stand on solid values. Obinna Chima provides the excerpts:

Whatdoesatypicalweekend look like for you when you are not managing a facility?

The interesting thing about my job is that it’s 24/7 in a sense, because whenyoumanagefacilities,theymustrunwhether people are there or they’re not. As an organisation, wehaveawayofmakingthatwork.Butonapersonal note, to be brutally honest, maybe 50 percent of my time over the weekend is still spent working or networking.So,it’seitherI’mworkingornetworking, orI’mresting,chillingwithfamily.I’manemptynester.

Howdoyoubalanceintensedemandfromyour clients and family life?

I have very interesting concepts about this thing. I hear a lot about work-life balance. As a person, I personally struggle with that concept. For me, it’s moreofwork-lifeintegration,becauseitisoneperson andmanyexpressions.Basedonmyresponsibilities.

I oversee five different businesses. I have a lot of responsibilities to the people that work for us, our clients,ourinvestors,ourbankers,andmanyothers. So I think that, particularly when you get to a level, what you’re focusing on more is how to balance the different aspects of your life, and nothing fails. For me, it’s about work-life integration. I love what I do, I love my job, and I love our clients. For me, it’s more about finding a way to integrate your life into your work such that none is suffering and none is giving you undue pressure. I think when you’re trying to look for a strong line between work and personal time,you’regoingtohavealotofconflict,especially if you’re an entrepreneur.

Doyoufollowanyroutine,eitherinthemorning or evening, to ensure you remain grounded and focused on what you do daily?

I’mamedicaldoctorbytraining.I’mapublichealth physicianbyvirtueofspecialisttraining.Andpartof ourbusinessalsoprovidesconsulting,andallofthat inhealthcare.That’soneofthebusinesseswithinour group. So I understand the importance of routines. AndsooneofthethingsthatIlivebyistotryandcreate time and balance for the boardroom, the bedroom, theGodroom,andthehealthroom.That’swhatIlive by. The boardroom is the business, the bedroom is family and friends, the God room is my meditation, my trust in God. I do my very best to commit my life, myday,intohishands,etc,andjustcreatesometime to meditate. It may not be too long, may not be too much,buttocreatesometimetomeditate,andItry at least three to four times a week, I go on walks in my estate, and that’s usually a one to one and a half hourswalkeverythreetofourdayslikeeveryother day. And that sort of keeps me grounded. I find out thatmymostinspiringmoments,evenforbusiness, are when I’m going on walks.

Is there a book that shaped your thinking and attitude to life?

For me, the biggest book will be the Bible. But whenyoucometoauthors,I’vereadquiteanumber ofbooks.Lately,I’mtryingtobecomeabookmyself, by trying to put my own experiences together as a mid-sizeentrepreneurinNigeria,whichIthinkisvery peculiar. I have two authors that their books sort of shapedmeveryearlyon-JohnMaxwellandStephen Covey.Andtheseareprettypopularbooks.SoJohn Markwellbookon‘Thehabitsofleadership-21Habits of Leaders; and Stephen Covey’s popular book on ‘TheSevenHabitsofHighlySuccessfulPeople.’These

bookslookmorelikehow-tobooks,they’re not just telling you theory, they will tell you thingsabouthowtodoit.Wehaveabusiness creedherecalledthe4CD,thatwasextracted purelyoutofJohnMaxwell’sbook,wherehe talksaboutcommitment,communication, dedication, and enthusiasm. We have that eight-componentcreedanditwasextracted fromthere.So,Iwouldsaythoseareprobably my two books. ‘From Good to Great,’ was another book that inspired me and taught me about being bold and being audacious in terms of setting goals, etc.

Doyoumaketimetomentoryoungprofessionals,andwhenyoumeetthem,what are your key messages to such persons?

I used to do a lot of mentoring, and right now,I’mtryingtocreateastructurearound mentoringyoungerpeople.Thatisbecause there’ssuchahugedynamicthatishappening in terms of shift in demography, shift in culture, attitude, habits, that is happening through generations. But there are a few principlesthatcannotbecompromised.For instance,whateveryouaredoing,whether asanemployeeorasabusinessowner,what are the values that you imbibe? What does integritymeantoyou?Whatisyourfocus? Whatisyourvision?Whateveritmeanstoyou, youmustbeabletocraftforyourselfavision. I don’t typically like all these high-standing words,butyoumustbeabletocraftavision

ofafutureforyourself.Youmustbeabletocrafthow you want to attain that vision. For example, if I sleep andIwakeupatanypointintime,myvisionforbeing in business is clear to me, and it’s a five-letter word calledR.E.I.G.N.,whichisanacronym.ItmeanstoRace, Empower, Inspire, Grow, and Nurture (REIGN). So, in everything that I do like I tell my team or younger people that I mentor, I do not seek for you to like me, but every time I test it, if you’ve been around me for oneyear,threeyears,fiveyears,youmustbeableto pauseandtellyourselfthat‘IhavegainedXYZfrom this man.’ And for me, once that happens, I feel very fulfilled. A few days ago, a young man who is abroad rightnow,sentmeacommunicationthankingmefor howIinspiredhimwhilehewasworkingwithus.That wasanunsolicitedmessage,andIgetsuchmessages everynowandthen.So,Iamatoughmentor,atough boss, but I like to push across the value of integrity, hard work, focus, discipline, and delayed gratification-thosearethethingsIpush.Peoplewanttomake money before they start working. No, it’s block by block. You build things one after the other.

How do you unwind after a very busy week? I have a great family. My best friend is my partner, whoismywife.Fortunately,sheisalsofunctioningas aconsultantforuswithinthebusiness.So,I’mahome buddy.WhenI’mnotworking,I’mwithmywife,going outforameal,goingtowatchamovie,typically,with her. Occasionally, we have friends come over or we visit friends. That’s pretty much the way I unwind. Of course, sometimes I go out to visit some of my mentors as well. Also, occasionally I visit a club.

Are there any principles you apply in your personallifethatweredrawnfromyourprofession?

Asanentrepreneur,youknow,it’sironicthatIfindit difficulttodrawalinebetweenmytrainingasamedical doctorandmylifeasacleaner,afacilitymanager,and anengineeringentrepreneur.Thatisbecauseoneof thethingsthatthefoundationofmedicalschooltaught meisgoingthroughrigourandbeingverystructured in your approach. So, typically, whenever there is a problem in business or in my life, the first thing I try to do is to understand what I’m looking at - is this a symptom,oristhistherealproblem?WhatI’mseeing thatlookslikeaproblem,isthattheactualproblem, or is it something else that is causing it? So, I sort of have that very logical approach that I believe I had extractedfrommytrainingandfrommywork,that I apply in my life as well. If there’s a problem, I will try to diagnose the problem to find the solution. Whatisonefinancialhabitthatyouhavelearnt which you want Nigerians or young people you mentor to adopt?

Iwilltalkaboutthreebecausetheyareinterrelated. The first habit is delayed gratification. Your first million is not meant to buy you an iPhone. No, that’s not what it is meant for. You need to learn how to delay gratification with specific targets. Let’s say this is my income today, and I want to save A.B.C, right, within the next six or 12 months, which is my savingstarget.Thatistoenableyoutocreatecapital becausecapitaldeterminesbusiness,entrepreneurship, even life. So, you can create capital. That’s the first one - delayed gratification with a discipline of savings. The second principle iS using leverage for growth. Leverage can be equity, debt, or whatever it is. For instance, I have used a lot of debt financing to grow the business from not having an office to employing thousands of people. We’ve used debt veryresponsibly.IfIborrowforaproject,itistargeted ataparticularthing,andIalreadyknowhowtorepay. So,learninghowtouseleveragealsocreatesgrowth. And the third one is finding the right partnership. Life is about partnership. Now that partner could beafriend,yourspouseoranybody.Butyouneedto find people of like minds, and it doesn’t have to be a structuredpartnership.Itcouldbeanunstructured partnership. But partnership is important so that you can you can learn, be part of a club, part of an investment club, or something. You must know how to use a partnership. These are three critical things that I think, if you can do fairly reasonably well, you will exceed your expectations.

What is the state of the facility management sector in Nigeria today?

Thefacilitymanagementsectorisaveryinteresting space because the last set of studies shows that it is in excess of $10 billion in terms of market size in Nigeria, and it’s expected to grow year-onyear. However, the sector is largely unstructured, almostaperfectlycompetitiveenvironment,which means that barriers to exit and barriers to entry are very low, and regulation is very low. What that meansisthatend-usereducationandsophistication isalsorelativelylow.Whatthatsortofimpliesisthat it’s a fragmented space, highly unregulated, which meansyouhavealotofunprofessionalisminit.That iswhypartofwhatIamdoingasanindividualandas a business is to help the sector to grow. I currently head the Association of Cleaners in Nigeria. I call myself Nigeria’s number one cleaner.

Ayeye

FEATURES

Julius Berger Reaffirms Resilience, Long-Term Value

Sunday Ehigiator

In a year marked by global economic shifts and domestic fiscal adjustments, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has once again positioned itself as a cornerstone of stability and performance in Nigeria’s infrastructure sector.

At its 2025 Investors Forum, held virtually on June 24, the engineering and construction giant reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to long-term value creation, operational resilience, and strategic expansion. The forum brought together key stakeholders, investors, and industry analysts, all eager to gain insights into the company’s forwardlooking vision and growth trajectory.

Addressing participants at the event, top executives of Julius Berger outlined how the company has continued to deliver on its promise of quality and reliability despite macroeconomic headwinds. From its diversified project portfolio spanning roads, bridges, industrial complexes, and smart infrastructure, to its growing investments in digital innovation and sustainability, Julius Berger emphasised a future built not just on contracts, but on enduring partnerships and responsible development. The firm’s leadership credited its continued success to a robust governance framework, a highly skilled workforce, and a deep understanding of Nigeria’s evolving infrastructure needs.

Beyond the balance sheets, the 2025 Investors Forum served as a platform for Julius Berger to communicate its broader purpose—nation building with integrity and excellence.

The Forum was notably the first hosted by the company’s new Managing Director, Engr. Peer Lubasch, who assumed leadership in October 2024.

Alongside Executive Director Finance, Mr. Christian Hausemann, Lubasch presented a compelling update on the company’s financial resilience, strategic direction, and forwardlooking agenda reinforcing Julius Berger’s enduring appeal to both local and international investors.

Despite a turbulent macroeconomic landscape in 2024 marked by high inflation, exchange rate volatility, and surging material costs, Julius Berger delivered record financial results. Julius Berger delivered a record-setting performance in 2024, underpinned by disciplined execution, operational resilience, and a forward-thinking growth strategy.

The result showed that the Group revenue surged by 27.8 percent to N567.7 billion, fuelled by increased project execution and enhanced contributions from subsidiaries, just as its profit before tax rose by 34.1 percent to N29.6 billion, supported by prudent cost management, forex-hedging through its German subsidiary, and investment returns. Its total assets climbed 48.9 percent to over N1.023 trillion, reinforcing balance sheet strength and prudent financial management and growth.

Julius Berger paid its highest-ever dividend of N3.25 per share, totalling N5.2 billion, underscoring shareholder value creation, in the review period, just as it received credit rating upgrade from A- to A (Stable Outlook) by Augusto & Co., driven by strong governance and financial health. Hausemann, also emphasised that Julius Berger’s lowleverage model, N162.0 billion cash reserves ensure funding

flexibility and capital strength.

He further revealed that today, 44.63 percent of the company’s shares are held by a diverse mix of institutional, pension, and retail investors, and it recently secured a second international contract in the Republic of Benin, solidifying its regional expansion agenda.

In terms of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) and digital milestones, it has major investments in solar power, digital fuel monitoring, and adoption of SAP S/4HANA ERP which reflect a strong commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Lubasch highlighted that “Julius Berger’s momentum stayed strong, though the year was marked by economic volatility and shifting market dynamics,” in 2024 as the company’s robust structures, sound governance, and disciplined strategy ensured continued progress and operational stability.

In 2024, Julius Berger successfully executed high-impact infrastructure projects across Abia, Bayelsa, Lagos, Delta, and Rivers states, alongside strategic federal assets in Abuja. Key projects included: Bodo-Bonny Road and Bridge: A Public Private Partnership (PPP) initiative unlocking economic potential in Rivers State; Opebi-Mende Link Bridge (Lagos): Easing traffic congestion and improving urban mobility; Port Harcourt Ring Road (Rivers): One of the largest urban infrastructure

projects in the state, and Delta and Abia State Infrastructure: From road corridors in Warri-Effurun to full reconstruction of Port Harcourt Road in Aba.

Furthermore, it included an international reach, which is a second contract it won in the Republic of Benin that supported Julius Berger’s regional growth strategy.

The company also commissioned landmark federal buildings, including the new Nigeria Upstream Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) headquarters and the rehabilitated Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, enhancing Nigeria’s diplomatic and commercial infrastructure.

In the review period, Julius Berger’s subsidiaries enhanced both technical capacity and revenue diversification across the Group. For instance, Julius Berger International GmbH (Germany) delivered foreign exchange earnings and led client acquisition in Europe; Primetech and Project Design Engineering: Drove green design integration, fuel monitoring systems, and digital engineering innovations; Abumet: Completed facades and high-grade installations, including over 12,000 sqm of Evonig glass on major towers and Julius Berger Services Nigeria: Strengthened logistics and cargo handling, serving both internal and external clients.

Also, presently the subsidiaries are increasingly accountable for revenue generation beyond the parent company and are measured against KPIs to drive operational independence and profitability.

On governance and stability, Julius Berger’s board leadership transitions were smoothly executed as Lubasch was appointed Managing Director in Oct 2024; Engr. Goni Musa Sheikh was appointed Chairman in April 2025, and Dr. Muhammadu Indimi joined the Board in November 2024.

The Board continues to provide high-level governance through five standing committees. Ongoing board education ensures alignment with evolving global ESG standards and risk frameworks.

Julius Berger is among the first Nigerian firms to voluntarily adopt the ISSB’s IFRS S1 & S2 ESG reporting standards, with a full report due in 2027.

As for sustainability and innovation, Julius Berger’s sustainability remained a core focus in 2024. Specifically, in the area of clean energy adoption, it transitioned to solar across multiple sites; reduced diesel reliance, while in terms of digital transformation, it deployed real-time fuel monitoring systems; migrated to SAP S/4HANA ERP; progressed toward ISSB-aligned sustainability reporting, with the first full report expected by 2027

It also committed N555 million to corporate social investment (CSI) in the review period, to sectors that included education, healthcare, rural infrastructure, and reforestation

Indeed, Julius Berger’s 2024 performance confirms its position as one of Nigeria’s most investment-worthy companies. The company’s ability to achieve record revenue and profit in a challenging environment, deliver historic dividends, and maintain a strong balance sheet demonstrates operational excellence and prudent management.

L-R: Senior Manager, Social Performance and Corporate Social Investment, Seplat Energy, Esther Icha; Deputy Manager, Sustainability, NEPL, Paul Omenogor; Edo State Commissioner for Mining, Oil and Gas, Andrew Ijegbai; Edo State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Emmanuel Paddy Iyamu; Director, External Affairs & Social Performance, Seplat Energy, Chioma Afe and Representative of the NEPL, Owunari Tomikeimieye, at the commissioning of three new state-of-the-art Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) Laboratories by the NEPL/Seplat JV, in Benin City, Edo State…….recently.

L–R: Managing Director, Digital Health Platforms, Interswitch, Dr. Olufemi Olapegba; Executive Secretary, Lagos State Blood Transfusion Committee (LSBTC), Dr. Bodunrin Osikomaiya; Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi; and Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye at the official launch of the LSBTC website and Blood Inventory Management System (BIMS) – HAEMOCENTRAL, held recently at Providence by Mantis, GRA Ikeja, Lagos….recently

L-R: Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Director, Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC), Oluwasoromidayo George; Convener, Hotel Managers Conference Africa, Olugbenga Sunday; and Senior Manager, External Communications, NBC, Samuel Iboroma, during the 2025 Hotel Managers Conference Africa sponsored by NBC in Lagos recently.

L-R: Chief Financial Officer, 9mobile, Abolaji Idowu; General Manager, Business Development, MTN, Omotola Ojutayo; Chief Enterprise Business Officer, MTN, Lynda Saint Nwafor; CEO, 9mobile, Obafemi Banigbe; and Chief Operating Officer, MTN, Ayham Moussa at the Media Briefing to announce 9mobile and MTN National Roaming Partnership in Lagos…recently PHOTO SUNDAY ADIGUN

Lubasch

Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394

Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

Hellen Slams, Drags Chiefpriest Over Paternity Test

His foray into music and association in recent times with music superstar David Adeleke, has got all and driven most conversations about popular socialite, Pascal Okechukwu a.k.a Cubana Chiefpriest, such that an alleged baby mama scandal threatening his status has caused him undesirable attention and ridiculing his position in public.

inspired several memes, and continues to drag Chiefpriest for abandoning her and his alleged son, Chiefpriest has, in turn maintained never meeting the lady who claims to have a 2-year-old son named after him, and continued to do so amid the paternity saga.

which she confronted Chiefpriest has also drawn the interest of observers who have been following the drama. In the eyes of these observers on social media, sees and dubbed her ‘the weapon fashioned against Chiefpriest’ as she weekly curses, calling out ‘Paskalll’ come and carry your baby o!

or sharing defamatory content about him. The story that made

a paternity test call and clear his name.

Hellen has for a couple of years now been cursing and calling out Chiefpriest, demanding a DNA test to prove paternity and possibly take responsibility for the child. She claimed to have met Chiefpriest in Lagos. Hellen had reached out to

Reports claimed she reached out to a number of his associates, including Chiefpriest’s wife, and solicited funds online for the baby’s upkeep. To the businessman, he believes it’s an attack against his marriage. “I have a beautiful marriage; this (marriage) is the best thing that has ever happened to

me, and if you watch the whole attack, it is on the marriage,” he once said.

Meanwhile, as Chiefpriest continues to assert his non-paternity stance and confronts anyone who questions him publicly about in 2023 when she accused the nightlife connoisseur of fathering her child, an allegation Chiefpriest tagged as “blackmail,” suggesting a DNA test be carried out.

In an interview on Channels TV he stressed that he is wealthy enough to support as many children as he wants if he chooses cheap attempt at blackmail and challenged bloggers to conduct if the child turned out to be his. attention, but it resurfaced in January 2025 following a spat

Roadblock Unveils Innovative Way, Select DJs for Africa’s Biggest Club Party

Ferdinand

In a stunning display of creativity, and transparency in the selection process of artists for major concerts and shows in Nigeria, Roadblock Party, has inaugurated the to select disc jockeys (DJs) featuring in the second edition of the Roadblock Party themed: ‘Pleasure Dome- the Return of Saints and Sinners’.

Roadblock Studio in Lagos, streamed live on Instagram recently, picked Ayorinde Kehinde Okiki otherwise known as DJ Kaywise and Olayinka sponsored by Desperados, a product of Nigerian Breweries Plc.

ternationally acclaimed DJ Kaywise and a call was put through to him for the second edition. The sequence followed after a brief time out and it produced the sensational DJ YK Mule,

the biggest club party in Africa.

The second edition of the Roadblock Party is scheduled to hold on October 4, 2025 at the Balmoral Victoria Island, Lagos. Roadblock Party, also known as Roadblock, is Africa’s biggest club party, turning large indoor venues into club setting, known for its inclusive ethos of peace, love, unity, and respect.

Speaking on the new introduction to the growing Roadblock brand, the said that the draft is introduced to give every DJ in Nigeria the equal opportunity to participate in the Roadblock Party.

“This is designed to show transparency and credibility on the Roadblock Party recruitment of artistes because the Roadblock has become a platform every DJ wants to feature in but we cannot on the show, we have to give all of them equal opportunity through live

According to him, “The core objective of Roadblock is to bring together a crowd of nightlife enthusiasts who appreciate high-energy dance music people who are seeking a positive, celebratory atmosphere, and those who appreciate high-quality production and stage design.”

convener said that participants should house and drum orchestra, topnotch DJs, multiple DJ sets, massive production, and a great visual show where attendees are required to wear all-white or all-black dress and the arena itself is decorated to match.

Most importantly, he said, the Roadblock is committed to attract those Gen Zs and Gen Zs-at-heart wanting

event arenas into the biggest club in Africa”, he added.

The Roadblock event, which is

in Nigeria with some spectacular performances, afro house music, world-class DJs, visually stunning massive production and a focus on

The inaugural edition which took place at Balmoral Ikeja on April 19th, 2025 attracted over three thousand energetic vibrant party goers and they were refreshed by Desperados beer. The maiden edition hosted a wide array of renowned DJs, including Dope Caesar, DJ Consequence, DJ Kaywise, and Tolani Baj.

Biosky, DJ Bootylicious from Cameroon, and more. The Hype artists include; Do2dtun and Jimmie. At the Roadblock, attendees are required to wear all-white or all-black dress, which echoes unity in duality. The Roadblock is the largest indoor afrocentric dance event.

between the socialite and afrobeats powerhouse, Burna Boy. The situation escalated when Burna Boy took to Instagram, referring to Chiefpriest as the Owerri version of popular American rapper, Rick Ross.

even proposing to bring her to Nigeria for a DNA test which she has been yearning. Despite her struggles to get Chiefpriest commit to a test, Hellen insists her intention is not to bring his name to disrepute but to secure a better future for her son, Pascal.

In the vast opinion of a majority, the sooner Chiefpriest commits to the test he had much earlier agreed to savage his name of the ongoing paternity scandal which has for months now remained in the spotlight, save Hellen of her ordeal, the better. Otherwise the ‘money na water’ sensation might just be seen as the one with ulterior motive, not Hellen.

Budding Prodigy, Lil David, Blooms in Texas, Lights Up the Stage

In the heart of the Lone Star State, a musical marvel is taking root, captivating hearts and minds with his prodigious talent. Eight-yearold David Oghenekevwe Akposibruke, known to his burgeoning fan base as Lil David, is not just another face in the crowd at Young Blood Elementary School; he’s a rising star, his melodies echoing with a maturity far beyond his years.

of parental support, who painted a vivid picture of David’s remarkable journey. “He’ll be nine on the 14th of June,” Mr. Akposibruke shared, his voice brimming

The story of Lil David’s ascent is one of serendipitous discovery. “By age three,” Mr. Akposibruke recounted, “he was already trying to rap along with songs he heard.” But it was during the stillness of the 2020 lockdown that David’s talent truly blossomed. “The

a fertile ground for creativity.

At just four years old, young David was fearlessly “free-styling over YouTube beats,” a testament to his innate musicality. To date, Lil David boasts an impressive passion. Yet, remarkably, his artistic pursuits have not

school,” Mr. Akposibruke proudly declared. “His grades are pretty high.” The harmonious balance between art and academics is a testament to David’s discipline and the unwavering support of his parents. Interestingly, young David’s inspiration doesn’t necessarily stem from the traditional wellsprings of rap. “Interestingly, he does not really listen to rap music and not as much as when he was younger.”

-ity of his sound, a unique tapestry woven from the threads of his own imagination. The impact of Lil David’s music has been nothing short of phenomenal.

his astonishment.

“People from all over the world have been calling us on the musical prowess of our son. I can’t believe it is happening. This global recognition is a testament about managing David’s burgeoning career, Mr.

his son’s talent responsibly. “Honestly, I am open to suggestions/help/support towards helping realise his full potentials,” he stated. And as for the possibility of curtailing his artistic asserted, emphasizing the importance of allowing

his family, captivating his peers as well. “They say he is so amazing and talented,” Mr. Akposibruke shared, relaying the enthusiastic feedback from his classmates. he performs on stage and his high energetic vibes.”

Even the careful selection of Lil David’s wardrobe is

what he wears to school and other activities.” Lil David’s story is a vibrant melody of talent, hard work, and unwavering support.

As he continues to hone his craft, the world eagerly young artist. He is not just a child with a dream; he is a blossoming star, illuminating the world with his audience is captivated, and Lil David is ready to shine.

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

Ekechukwu

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

Lil David

Chiefpriest

Hellen

SHOWBIZFLAIR

2Baba on Fidelity: Brutal Truth or Just Toxic Masculinity?

During a recent podcast interview with Nedu, veteran artiste, 2Baba stirred controversy with a claim music icon stated that, in his opinion, it is biologically to just one woman. He argued that while a man may truly love one woman deeply and wholeheartedly, his natural, biological impulses often make it challenging for him to stay sexually committed to only her.

2Baba’s comments have since sparked debate online, with many questioning the implications of such a statement, especially from a public been known to be with several women who have had kids for him.

Some months ago, he parted ways with Annie Macaulay, a woman he spent his early rise in to her amidst the multiple women in his life. Thereafter, he married Ms. Natasha.

But in a sudden twist of events, 2baba reversed

his statements on the podcast in a viral video, with many sharing their thoughts on how they feel about the whole matter.

A recap of the two-minute video that went viral states, “I know I fucked up with what I

said and I know I’m going to get cancelled cos of it. I know I’m going to pay a heavy price and face the consequences. But I apologise to my fans and most importantly, my wife, the love of my life, Natasha, and also my kids. I’m terribly sorry. That’s not who I am.

“The amount of response that I got has made me see how much people love and respect me. For me to now use stupid statements to cancel everything, that’s not who I am. I’m sorry.”

While some have agreed with 2Baba, calling others expressed strong displeasure, criticising believe his remarks reinforce harmful stereotypes and undermine the values of commitment and accountability in relationships.

But let’s go back a little to the genesis of the whole matter when 2baba made this statement during the podcast. As much as he tried to be asking if he could be with another woman aside his wife unsettled 2baba.

He pointed out Nedu was looking for trouble with the question, but restating his point he said, “But I want to believe you know what I’m talking about, and it is what has gotten so

Business Coach, Olumide Marks 40th Birthday with Social Impact Across Lagos Correctional Centers

In a striking departure from conventional birthday celebrations, Nigerian business coach and real estate entrepreneur, Olufemi Olumide, commemorated his 40th birthday with a week-long impact project focused on the rehabilitation and empowerment of incarcerated individuals and juveniles across Lagos State.

The initiative, themed “Impact Driven LifeImpact Over Party,” saw Olumide, his friends, family and other volunteers start a Clothes drive for men and women, visit the Juvenile Correctional Center for Boys in Ikeja, the Kirikiri Female Correctional Center and the Kirikiri Male Correctional Center in Apapa.

The project began on Thursday, June 12th, 2025, with a visit to the Juvenile Correctional Center for Boys in Ikeja. Olumide his family and friends were warmly received and engaged the boys in an uplifting session focused on hope, personal responsibility, and the reasons why we need to live an impact driven life.

During the visit, the team donations were coordinated by his ever supportive wife Tricia Olufemi Olumide. The donations included 130 packs of cooked meals, gift packs including toiletries, books focused on self development for kids and teens.

According to the celebrant, these boys are not statistics — some of them want to be web developers and software engineers, they are the future of Nigeria and must be treated with dignity”.

The highlight came on Saturday, June 14 — Olumide’s 40th birthday — as he visited the Kirikiri Female Correctional Center with family and friends. He spoke to over 150 inmates, sharing the impact driven life message while distributing foodpacks donated by Luchy Foods and

BIC Marks 75th Anniversary, Organises Workshop

BIC, a global leader in stationery, lighters, and shavers, recently concluded a two-day workshop designed to empower emerging Nigerian artists. Held in Lagos, Nigeria as part of its global celebration of 75 years of the iconic BIC Cristal pen, the workshop was hosted in collaboration with EVVDEE Art Academy and brought together 16 young artists for hands-on training in ballpoint pen artistry.

The two-day training was facilitated by Oscar Ukonu, a hyperrealistic ballpoint pen artist, and Dr. Fola David-Tolaram, a visual artist and current Guinness World Record holder for the largest drawing by an individual.

Oscar led participants through a full-day creative masterclass focused on technique, process, and expression using a ballpoint pen, including live demonstrations, one-on-one feedback, and a group critique.

David-Tolaram’s session the following day focused on creative entrepreneurship and brandbuilding, helping participants understand how to position their talent for long-term sustainability in the art industry.

Speaking on the initiative, Anthony Amahwe, General Manager, BIC Nigeria, said: “Creativ-

ity is central to BIC’s DNA. As we mark 75 years of the BIC Cristal pen, we are proud to create platforms that support self-expression, skill development, and community building.

“As an extension to our Art Master Africa ballpoint pen competition, it is important for us to stay engaged with the creative community and provide a space where emerging artists could learn, grow, and connect through the same tool trusted by millions around the world.” of completion, recognising not only their engagement in the workshop but also their commitment to developing their craft. The enthusiasm, as participants expressed excitement about learning directly from respected names in the art industry.

For many, the workshop provided a valuable opportunity to gain new skills, fresh perspectives and the motivation to take their creative practice to the next level.

Beyond the technical sessions, the workshop connection. Through live demonstrations, interactive discussions and one-on-one mentoring, participants were exposed to the broader realities of building a sustainable career in the arts.

Firewood Rice Nigeria, amongst other donations were soda drinks, sanitary towels, toiletries as well as loaves of bread and clothing gathered from the clothes drive.

However, due to a heavy downpour, access to the general Male Correctional Center was restricted under the facility’s “no-release during rain” policy. Despite this, donations were made while the remaining materials were held in preparation for a rescheduled visit in the coming month.

In Olumide’s words, the motivational speaker

many people in trouble. So many heartaches can accept this simple fact.”

Another thing to note was 2baba’s body chemistry during the interview. He showed unsettling reactions as the conversation was ongoing, but many may pay little or no attention to that, but rather his statements and a followup apology which has now accompanied the whole drama.

One could argue that 2Baba could have approached the subject more thoughtfully, as expected of someone of his status, or perhaps acknowledging the complexities of human desire without making bold statements that risk reinforcing stereotypes. He might have also known when to draw the line, especially as the conversation began to shift into controversial territory.

But beyond how he said it, the bigger question

masculinity? Many social media users believe his statement echoes outdated notions that than challenging men to rise above impulse and embrace accountability in relationships.

said: “Turning 40 was a gift. But the real celebration was seeing smiles, hearing laughter, and planting seeds of hope where they’re needed most. This isn’t the end — we will do more.”

The project was supported in kind and cash by over 20 individual donors and in partnership by Mrs Joke Aladesanmi and Dr. Francis Adeshina and Dr. Temiloluwa Adeshina of Readland Global.

A few other people present were Mr Rotimi Eyitayo, Dare & Sola Obagbemi, Remi & Yemi Olumide-Jegede his lovely parents, Bimpe Osanyintuyi, Uchenna Ekumankama, Adeniyi Adanri, Felicia Okocha, Andem Pobee-Orleans, Chibu Obinwanne, Funmi Akinleye, Tosin Olaleye, Tolu Adewole, Precious Olaoluwa Adedeji, Adaeze Ndu, and his amazing brother, Toni Olumide amongst others.

The next phase of the project was the launch of The Olufemi Olumide Foundation (TOOF), focused on long-term reform, education, mentoring and reintegration of underserved youths.

“At 40, I chose to plant seeds of hope instead of planning a party. I believe TOOF will continue this mission on a much larger scale,” Olumide said.

The remains from the project fund and will be used to register the TOOF — a platform dedicated to youth development, Prison and juvenile rehabilitation, Educational and reintegration programs, Mental health support, and Empowerment through entrepreneurship. “TOOF is a commitment to continue what we started, giving structure and sustainability to more impact gesture. it’s the beginning of a bigger mission to create long-term change for underserved youth This is how my legacy journey starts.”

Nigenius Hosts Robotics Competition

Africa’s brightest young minds took the stage at of the Bots, which held recently in Lagos.

Powered by Nigenius, a smart web application that provides teachers with quality resources and connects them to learners for tutoring, the competition had over 1000 students and dozens of schools participating. As Africa’s foremost interschool robotics competition, the atmosphere was electric.

From dynamic primary school showcases to the unexpected three-way tie in the secondary category, every moment reinforced the fact that today’s students are not preparing to catch up; they are already shaping the future. From the ingenuity displayed in each robot to the well-curated sessions on education, innovation, and emerging technologies, it was a clear indication that the future is already in motion, and we are not just participating, we are leading.

On how the selection was conducted, CEO of Nigenius Technologies, Mr. Kelechi Uchenna said: “First of all, we put out a registration link

and after they registered, we had about 109 schools register. We now did a very rigorous

Then we now took them through the process of building their robots, getting their robots 33 to partake in the competition.”

ignorance of STEM education. A lot of schools are not aware of the potential, the power that this has on Nigeria and our continent. Africa needs about 23 million stem professionals to solve its developmental problems by 2030.”

Tosin Clegg

Tosin Clegg

2Baba

Battle of the Bots

How Mbah is Reshaping Enugu’s Destiny

Enugu State stands on the cusp of a golden age. From sustainable education to smart security and civic infrastructure, Governor Peter Mbah is orchestrating a comprehensive transformation that places the welfare, growth, and future of the citizens at the heart of governance.

During a tour of major projects in the State during the recently held Nigerian Guild of Editors’ (NGE) Biennial National Convention held in Enugu, the editors expressed admiration for the scale and impact of the ongoing infrastructure development, commending the government’s commitment to transformative governance and sustainable growth.

In just two years, the governor’s ambitious and tightly executed “Tomorrow Is Here” agenda has delivered game-changing initiatives — from Smart Green Schools to groundbreaking urban renewal efforts—that have already begun redefining the state.

Smart Green Schools: Nurturing Future Leaders

Perhaps the crown jewel of Mbah’s agenda is the roll-out of 260 Smart Green Schools, one in every ward of Enugu. These are not mere reconstruction projects; they are full-blown innovation campuses designed to foster 21st-century skills. The initiative is aimed at revolutionising the State’s educational landscape. The project includes the construction of modern buildings and seeks to integrate cutting-edge technology into classrooms, ensuring that students are equipped with the digital skills necessary for the modern world.

By enhancing educational facilities with smart technologies, Mbah aims to provide a more interactive and engaging learning environment that prepares students for future challenges and opportunities.

This initiative underscores the state’s commitment to improving educational standards and accessibility through innovative solutions.

Under the Smart Green School, each educational institution has solar-powered classrooms with smart boards, e-libraries, robotics, mechatronics, VR/AR, ICT centres, science labs, and smart farms; there is on-site medical clinics and clean-water systems; teachers’ quarters to improve quality and retention of educators, and free uniforms, books, tablets, meals, and healthcare for students.

During the tour, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Education Innovation, and Director of Experiential Learning, Enugu Smart Green School, Chinyere Onyeisi, explained that the vision of the initiative goes far beyond bricks and mortar.

At the Owo, Nkanu East, pilot school, about 900 pupils are already engaging in a curriculum that integrates robotics, solar-powered agriculture, and digital innovation hubs. This is education rooted in real-world problem-solving, Onyeisi explained.

What distinguishes Mbah’s approach is an

unwavering commitment to people-centred development. By directing a higher proportion of the State budget to education, he signals his belief that investing in children today is the most effective way to prevent poverty and crime tomorrow.

From communities like Amankwo Ward 3, Oji River, to the State Ministry of Education, the sentiment is consistent: Enugu is becoming a model for inclusive, tech-savvy growth

The Smart School Initiative was designed to have provisions for early childhood learning, which begins at age three. At age three, beyond teaching them, issues about their health profile are looked into. For example, for those who may not have adequate medical records, the first thing the school does is to make sure that the child’s health is okay and that they are up to date with their vaccination. Where there is a deficiency, the school’s authorities step in to ensure that they are regularised.

“In terms of learning, we have completely changed the way the kids are taught. We have moved away from the old system of teaching these kids to what is referred to as the experiential learning system. Just recently, we won the Spencer Foundation Vision Grant, in recognition of what we are doing at the basic education experiential learning.

“We have the Centre for Experiential Learning and Innovation, a pipeline that all the tutorial staff must go through to be qualified to teach at a smart school.

“Currently, we are training about 18,000 of our educators through the Centre for Experiential Learning and Innovation.

“The idea is that these kids would be exposed to all modern skills from a very young age. From Basic one or what you know as Elementary one, you get exposed to robotics, AI, and Virtual Realities (VR). If they are learning Biology, for example, you can visualise how the blood moves through the veins. Most importantly, we are getting the kids to see their classrooms beyond where they memorise or repeat what they were taught,” Mbah explained.

The educational pipeline—from primary Smart Green Schools to technical colleges and tertiary institutions— was designed to produce graduates with local and global relevance. One day, these young adults will run our clinics, startups, and emerging industries—anchoring Enugu’s shift from a predominantly oil-dependent economy to one diversified, modern, and future-proof.

Of course, ambition must be matched by sustainability. The sophistication of the Smart Schools and infrastructure requires continuous funding and public-private partnerships to maintain momentum beyond election terms.

Green Roads and Bitumen Plant

Mbah has also focused on connectivity, both physical and economic. The asphalt production plant was built in furtherance of his campaign promise to construct 10,000 roads in eight years.

The state acquired the eco-friendly asphalt plant, producing over 1,000 tonnes daily, and committed to constructing a minimum of 10 km of new bitumen roads in each ward. The initial 90 urban roads already completed in Enugu City, along with later rural expansions, demonstrate a new era of mobility that binds communities to schools, markets, and opportunities.

This will drastically reduce the cost of road construction for the state.

“The asphalt production plant is designed to produce 160 tons of asphalt per hour,” Mbah said. “For context, it will produce 2.5 tons every minute and 160 tons per hour,” he added.

Speaking further, he said “What it effectively means is that if we decide to work 20 hours in a day, we can produce 3,200 tons every day. This is not seen anywhere in the South East,”.

He noted that his administration would also inaugurate a plant where the stones needed to feed this plant will be mined and crushed.

“It is our hope that we are going to start the exploration of bitumen in the state because we are also blessed with bitumen. So, in a few years time, we are going to be able to produce the bitumen that will feed this plant. It means that we will get the bitumen here, get the stones, and sand so that everything is made in Enugu,” the governor said.

The bitumen plant will also create jobs and boost local industry, reinforcing a self-sustaining infrastructure loop.

Enugu New City

Parallel to roads and schools, Enugu New City—a still-under-construction smart urban hub—represents Mbah’s vision for holistic development. The deliberate blend of residential, commercial, administrative, and tech-oriented infrastructure signals Enugu’s next quantum leap. When complete, it will be more than another district—it will be a working model of integrated, smart living.

This initiative the governor’s larger ambition: to elevate Enugu into a $30 billion digital economy within the next 4–8 years, a figure referenced by the Minister of Communications in describing Enugu’s digital trajectory

“We are currently building a brand new city, which would take about 300,000 households, and that is because we are planning for the future. If you are going to grow the economy to $30 billion, you must provide access and infrastructure.

“We are already thinking about that. This brand new city is going to be fully service –your water, electricity, sewage, telecoms, fibre optics, internet access, the gas line- would all be fully provided.

“You just move in and you don’t need to go in there with your generator, and of course, the roads are all designed. So, it is carefully planned to be a smart and modern city. Lastly, the light rail is going to be on the right-ofway,” Mbah told members of the NGE.

Security Elevated by Innova- tion

For any developmental dream to thrive, security must be steadfast. Mbah answered this need with a cutting-edge Command and Control Centre, the most advanced of its kind in Nigeria. Strategically located cameras and AI-embedded patrol vehicles create a responsive network that operates 24/7 to deter and manage crime

Deployed with over 150 equipped patrol cars, modern surveillance analytics, and integration with the national 112 emergency system, the centre solidifies public safety as a pillar of state stability

Shedding more light on the expansion plan for the security infrastructure, the Governor said, “We have phase two of the security surveillance system that is ongoing. Part of what we did with the security system was to ensure that we don’t use satellite, so that it is not weather-sensitive, and when it is raining, we are not worried whether the cameras will work or not.

“We use fibre optic cables, so all our cameras are connected through the fibre optic cable. What we have commissioned is the first phase; we are now in the second phase. The second phase was designed to capture all the gateways. Not just the known gateways, but other gateways are informal.

“We currently have coverage beyond the cities. We have about seven strategic local governments that are captured in this first phase, and the second phase will capture the additional nine local governments that were not captured. So, there is a plan for full coverage.”

Looking Ahead

To ensure that these infrastructures and initiatives outlive his administration, Mbah is focused on building strong institutions.

“Beyond bricks and mortar, there are other soft issues like training and making sure that there are pipelines through which these programmes and initiatives are sustained.

“So, we are very conscious of that and we are building the capacity of our civil servants, who obviously will continue to remain here. That is why we have a programme, for instance, that ensures that all our civil servants have access to digital training and makes sure that our processes are instituted.

“All the MDAs, we have over 111 of them in Enugu, are included in our e-governance platform. So, by building the capacity of our civil servants and strengthening the institutions, we can sustain th

Governor Peter Mbah’s holistic development strategy is breathing new life into Enugu. The state is witnessing a renaissance— fuelled by smart education, smart roads, smart security, and smart urban planning. Every project reflects a future rooted in sustainability, equality, and innovation. The governor’s architectural model for human development could stand as a blueprint for Nigeria.

ENUGU SMART GREEN SCHOOL

Mbah

Gideon Arinze

ommissioning of Aguma Palace – Radio Nigeria – New Market Road, Gwagwalada Area Council, FCT on Friday Commissioning of Aguma Palace – Radio Nigeria – New Market Road, Gwagwalada Area Council, Federal Capital Territory on Friday, July 4, 2025

Gwagwalada Main Market Traders Association welcoming dignitaries at the event

L-R: Minister of State FCT, Mariya Mahmoud; FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and Vice President, Kashim Shettima, being welcomed by a child with a bouquet of flowers

Some Gwagwalada residents carrying placards with inscriptions praising Wike

The new market road Aerial view of the area in Gwagwalada

L-R: Minister of State FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud; Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadeji; FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike; Vice President, Kashim Shettima, and Coordinator STDD, Abdulkadir Zulkiflu

Laughing Time: FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike and Vice President Kashim Shettima

L-R: PDP National Vice Chairman (South South), Chief Dan Orbih; Senators Philip Aduda, George Sekibo, Ifeanyi Ararume; former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chibudom Nwuche; Senator Mao Ohuabunwa; former Governors of Enugu and Benue, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and Samuel Ortom

FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, showing his dancing skill to the admiration of the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima

When Power Mongers Regroup: Inside the ADC Circus

Temitope Ajayi

What was widely touted as a potential seismic shift in Nigeria’s political terrain turned out to be a mere political puff off smoke.

For weeks, a band of aggrieved and wandering politicians had been climbing every available rooftop, megaphone in hand, vowing to dethrone President Bola Tinubu come 2027. Not because the man is doing a terrible job on the saddle. Not because the economy has worsened or security has completely collapsed. No. Just because they missed out on the appurtenances of power and cannot seem to function without the title “Your Excellency.”

Two years into his presidency, Bola Tinubu is tackling Nigeria’s multi-headed problems like a man cutting down a mountainous terrain with a pickaxe, painfully slow, yes, but certainly purposeful.

Yet, the self-styled redeemers, who gathered under the banner of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Abuja on Wednesday, chief among them Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, have not proposed a single fresh idea.

Their only strategy appears to be crying louder than the bereaved, recycling worn-out clichés, and weaponising poverty they helped fertilise over the past 25 years. This is not a political rebirth. It is more like a poorlyscripted sequel that is ill-fated. These opposition actors, having deflated their original parties and lost the plot as credible voices, are merely using the ADC as a special purpose vehicle for power-hunting. It is a political Uber for those stranded without relevance.

Nigerians have seen this movie before. In 2018, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, after penning a series of acidic letters to President Muhammadu Buhari, rallied his coalition of the wounded under the same ADC flag. That effort collapsed faster than a soufflé in a thunderstorm. If history is any guide, the new ADC revival is another expedition in political self-harm.

The truth is, the ADC gathering is never a policydriven renaissance. It is more like a reunion of political exes with bruised egos. Jealousy, personal bitterness, inflated ambition, and expired influence are the glue binding this coalition. They are not out to rescue anyone; they only want to rescue themselves from political oblivion.

To further understand the theatrical quality of this attempted comeback, let us meet the cast.

Atiku Abubakar: A walking case study in political promiscuity. He has changed parties more times than a chameleon in a rainbow factory. Six failed presidential bids in 30 years, and he is still convinced he has a divine appointment with Aso Rock. By 2027, Atiku will be 80 years old. One wonders if he sees the ADC as a retirement plan or a midlife crisis project stretched into old age.

Peter Obi: Running on the altar of religion and ethnicity, our fault lines, he came third in the 2023 presidential election. He has not stopped lamenting with his dark view of a country he seeks to govern. From every pulpit to podcast, he hammers out statistics like a broken calculator stuck on pessimism. The same man who vilified the “structure of criminality” has now joined forces with it, convinced that recycled alliances will take him to the Promised Land. For a man who loves to chant “competence, capacity, and compassion,” his own time as governor left more questions than legacy projects.

Senator David Mark: The new “Protem Chairman” of ADC is our newfound democrat who wants to save our hard-won civil rule. How democratic! This is the same man who played a key role in the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election. He spent 20 years in the Senate, out of which he spent 8 years as Senate President. He left Otukpo, his hometown, looking like it missed every development memo sent since the 1980s. A man with this track record should not be talking about saving democracy. He helped bury it once.

Nasir el-Rufai: The diminutive former governor of Kaduna suffers from the well-documented “short man syndrome” and an even shorter loyalty span. Denied a ministerial position, he is now leading a political tantrum. Both former Presidents Buhari and Obasanjo reportedly said El-Rufai can not be trusted with a vending machine, let alone national leadership. Despite his knack for media drama, his electoral influence is skeletally thin he would struggle to win a ward in Kaduna today.

Rotimi Amaechi: Spoilt silly by the system. He is the dictionary definition of entitlement. From being the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly to being governor to minister, without ever holding a real life job like an average Nigerian, he thinks Nigeria owes him a crown and garlands. Despite being Director-General of Buhari’s campaigns in 2015 and 2019, he failed spectacularly to deliver Rivers State to APC in three elections. Each time, he got beaten by Nyesom Wike with a stick, a smile, and a landslide. Amaechi is a synonym for failure in matters of elections.

Rauf Aregbesola: As governor of Osun, he engaged in bizarre governance experiments that left the state more broke than Greece in 2008 and left civil servants unpaid. As Minister of Interior, his biggest achievements were announcing public holidays and turning passport collection into an Olympic sport. He once swore President Tinubu was second

only to God in his life. Now, he wants to save Nigeria with Atiku in a gang up against the man God used to elevate him to positions of national prominence.

Bolaji Abdullahi: He is the master of fine talk and zero conviction. One moment, he is with the PDP. Next, he is with the APC, then back to the PDP. Now, he is the mouthpiece of ADC. When Arise TV’s Rufai Oseni asked if he was keeping Saraki’s seat warm, it was not a dig but a clinical diagnosis.

To be clear, this ADC crowd is not on a mission to reinvent Nigeria. They are merely trying to reinvent themselves. No ideology, no credible blueprint, just a collection of power retirees seeking roles and relevance like actors auditioning for a remake of a show nobody watched the first time. And as if their credibility deficit was not enough, their leadership structure itself is illegal.

According to the 2022 Electoral Act, any appointment of party officials must be done through a properly convened party convention or National Executive Council meeting, supervised by INEC. What happened in Abuja was not a lawful convention or NEC meeting of ADC. It was a political comedy skit without a script.

In the end, the so-called coalition is nothing but a choir of has-beens and never-weres singing off-key. They lack the fire, the discipline, the ideological clarity and the mass movement element that propelled APC to power in 2015.

Rather than waste everyone’s time parading tired slogans, the ADC gang should just say what they really mean: “We want power because we miss the perks.” Unfortunately for them, Nigeria has changed. And Nigerians are watching and will laugh out loud at the appropriate time.

Ajayi is Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Publicity.

West Africa Must Trade Its Way to Prosperity

For all the ambition that has long swirled around regional integration in West Africa, the reality has remained underwhelming. Trade among ECOWAS member states still lags just below 10 percent.

In an era where continents compete not just on GDP but on supply chains, self-reliance, and economic coherence, that figure is a quiet indictment. At the West Africa Economic Summit (WAES) 2025 in Abuja, we saw a region no longer content with aspiration alone.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, both host and the then ECOWAS Chairman, set the tone from the outset. “Intraregional trade remains under 10 per cent... a challenge we can no longer afford to ignore. The global economy will not wait for West Africa... neither should we.”

This was not another echo chamber of intentions. It was a summit where delivery was non-negotiable. Nigeria laid its cards on the table through a $15 billion investment pipeline focused squarely on trade-enabling infrastructure from roads, power, and industrial corridors, to digital frameworks.

The Lagos–Abidjan highway project gained renewed momentum. A dedicated deal room facilitated over $400 million in advanced transactions. And the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) is finally moving from pilot to real-world scale.

Perhaps most crucially, the summit underscored that integration cannot happen without identity.

As CEO of Nigeria’s National Identity Management Commission, Abisoye Coker-Odusote, said, “Our markets are bustling, our people are trading, but our systems are not speaking to each other.” Her call for cross-border digital identity recognition wasn’t just technical policy. It was a demand to unlock the informal economy that sustains millions.”

WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala echoed the urgency, noting that the region could unlock a $500 billion trade potential. But trade is not just about volume. It is about velocity. How quickly goods, services, payments, and people can move without friction. And that requires more than declarations.

It requires the deliberate dismantling of invisible walls between neighbours. WAES 2025 did more than identify the problem. It mapped the solution. Customs harmonisation. Coordinated investment in infrastructure. Youth-focused supply chain finance. A digital ecosystem that finally connects the dots between markets.

President Tinubu’s closing challenge captured the moment succinctly. “Let us move from declarations to concrete deals... build a West Africa that is investable, competitive, and resilient,” If the region rises to meet this challenge, WAES 2025 will not merely be remembered as a conference. It will be remembered as the turning point where West Africa stopped trading with hesitation and started trading with purpose.

Tinubu

AregbesolaMark

O’tega Ogra

In Search of Justice Over Seized Property

Charles Ajunwa

The 2023 Abia State Governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Ikechi Emenike, is fighting very hard through the courts to get justice for alleged maltreatment meted out to him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). He believes the judiciary will right the wrongs done to him by the anti-graft agency.

The EFCC in a letter dated October 14, 2016, AS/140/ EFCC/ABJ/AFRS/TA/VOL.1/16 titled: ‘Management of Forfeited Property By The EFCC’ signed by Acting Head, Asset Forfeiture and Recovery Section, Umma Sulaiman, directed to occupant of No. 6 Aso Drive, Maitama, Abuja, among others stated that “The above property which you currently occupy was Forfeited in an interim Forfeiture order to the Federal Government through the Commission in suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/228/2016 dated 13th April, 2016.”

The anti-graft agency further said, “Pursuant to the order, the Commission has appointed the firm of Festus Azikagbon & Associates as the new manager of the property and you are requested to regularize your occupation of the property with the new manager based on terms presented to you.”

Emenike, said he complied with all the EFCC’s directives by regularising and making payments to Festus Azikagbon from 2016 to 2022. He provided receipts for all payments.

But in December of 2022, the EFCC had listed No. 6 Aso Drive among properties to be auctioned across the country.

The anti-graft agency in a statement by its spokesman, Wilson Uwujaren, had said the auction was open to members of the public with the exception of people facing prosecution by the commission.

According to Emenike, “When the house was advertised for sale, by the EFCC, my same residence was used as a poster asset for advertisement.”

“Managers of the property, Festus Azikagbon & Associates, in a letter dated June 25, 2024, FA/ABJ)NGT/EFCC/021 wrote to Emenike asking him to make payment for the periods of January 1, 2023 to December 31, 2023, and January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2024.

Emenike said he met with former EFCC Chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa, “on the need to grant me the Right of First Refusal. He agreed but promised that they will get back to me after reevaluating the property.”

“While I was waiting for the Right of First Refusal, EFCC suddenly decided against their own law to appropriate the property to their chairman.

“I objected and went to court. After several months of legal exchange before an FCT High Court, Hon. Justice A.S. Musa in a subsisting unappealed judgement gave the Right of First Refusal and told the EFCC that they have no legal right to keep any Forfeited property to themselves for whatever use. In the same judgement, he told them that the only option the law gave them was to sell the property and remit the pro- ceeds to the Federal Government’s Single Treasury Account. He ruled that as a sitting tenant, EFCC should give me the

Right of First Refusal.

“Rather, in an unethical move, the EFCC went to Federal High Court and on an ex perte application, secured an eviction order with which they stormed No.6 Aso Drive and chased away all my domestic staff and took possession of the house.

Emenike, who says he believes in rule of law, said “We approached the same court who gave ex perte order. He reversed his earlier order and lambasted the EFCC for fraudulently securing the order and order them to vacate my residence, and restore me to the house.”

The judge in suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1123/2021, Justice M. S. Liman, between Emenike and EFCC ordered as follows:

“That an order of this honourable court is hereby setting aside, vacating and/or discharging the order granted ex perte made by this honourable court on the 27th day of March 2025 by which the appellant was evicted from No. 6 Aso Drive Abuja for being an abuse of court process and one obtained by fraud of misrepresentation and conceal- ment by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission; and for want of jurisdiction.

“That an order of this honourable court is hereby made setting aside, vacating and/or discharging the order granted ex perte made by this honourable court on the 27th day of March 2025 by which the appellant was evicted from No.6 Aso Drive Abuja for want of jurisdiction.

“That a mandatory order of injunction is hereby made restor- ing the applicant to No 6 Aso Drive Abuja from where he was ejected upon the order granted ex perte made by this honourable court on the 27th day March 2025 fraudulently obtained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

“That an order of this honourable court is hereby made mandating the Chief Bailiff/Bailiffs of this honourable court to reopen/unlock No.6 Aso Drive Abuja from where the applicant and his family were driven away from and locked up by the Bailiffs of this court on 29th March 2025 and upon reopening/ unlocking the premises restore the applicant back therein and clean all the red marks painted on the premises by the EFCC.

“That an order of mandatory injunction is hereby made restraining the EFCC by themselves, their servants, agents however described from trespassing into or coming near No.6 Aso Drive Abuja occupied by the applicant on account of the judgement of Hon. Justice M.O. Olajuwon made the 24th day October 2022 in view of the judgement of Hon. A.H. Musa of the High Court of the FCT in suit No. FCT/HC)CV)6890/2023 between High Chief Ikechi Emenike V Economic and Financial Crimes Commission made on the 18th dat of April 2024 and the pending appeal between the applicant and EFCC in appeal No. CA/ABJ)CV/226/2025.”

According to Emenike, the court bailiffs sent to go and enforce its order, “Rather than obey and vacate the premises, the EFCC told the bailiffs bluntly that they would not obey any court order and even threatened to shoot the court officials.

“The court tried again with the support of policemen from FCT Police Command, but met another resistance from the EFCC operatives again with the encouragement of Barr. Francis Useni. “The EFCC filed a motion before the same court for a Stay of Execution of the court order. The court not only rejected and dismissed the EFCC motion, the court also told them to go and purge themselves of their disobedience of the order. The court stated that EFCC behaviour is unconscionable.

The Bailiff of the Federal High Court Headquarters, Abuja , Obi Robert, in report of execution carried out on June 20, 2025, stated among others “That we got to the said No. 6 Aso Drive Drive together with the approved police enforcement team led by ASP Abdulrahman, the armed men of EFCC refused us to open and handover the the place to the occupant.”

He added, “That Head of the armed EFCC operatives on arrival, called their CSO, who linked with Barr. Francis Usani and Barr. Francis Usani told me on phone to stop the execution of the court order.”

Emenike, wondered why EFCC is interested in denying him access to No. 6 Aso Drive Abuja.

“The question is why is the EFCC so fixated with particular property, even trampling on the rights of a bonafide citizen? There are over a million properties the EFCC, if they do desire, can legally acquire for their chairman.

“This is the height of impunity and lawlessness,” Emenike concluded.

Oral Literature: The Healing Powers When All Has Failed

The place of oral tradition is arguably as old as the existence of man. The potency through the verbalisation of words and sounds heavily embedded with meanings which have been passed down from generation to generation, remains significant, even though the concept seems to have been subjected to questionable scrutiny due to technological advancement.

Traditions in the forms of folktales, proverbs, chants and incantations amongst others have been used to share personal and collective experiences, histories, and cultural values, thereby promoting empathy and understanding, as well as taking the place of symbolism and metaphor in the conveyance of complex emotions, themes, and messages that facilitate deeper understanding and connection between communities and societies.

This is not forgetting the place of performance and spectacle, which are usually in the form of festivals and rituals being incorporated in

performance elements such as music, dance, and drama in order to engage audiences and convey messages with benefits ranging from promoting reconciliation and community building.

While considering the importance of the roles of the ancient tradition, challenges it is facing in the present dispensation of modernity include, but not limited to accessibility in identifying remote or marginalised communities where the oral forms religiously exist; preservation in ensuring accurate and high-quality documentations are observed; and also the protection of digitized oral forms from degradation or loss over time.

Others are the shortages experienced in the concept of performance during festivals and rituals for national and international reconciliation and healing, involving cultural expressions being performed to express cultural values, traditions, and histories.

It is based on the aforementioned that the International Society for Oral Literature in Africa (ISOLA) will be converging on Abuja for its

15th international conference, holding on 10th and 11th of July, 2025.

ISOLA is a multinational, multicultural, and multilingual organisation dedicated to promoting, conserving, and studying the rich oral traditions of Africa and its diasporas worldwide.

In collaboration with the University of Abuja, now known as the Yakubu Gowon University, 12 counties will be expected to lend their voices to the dying aspect of the spoken arts under the theme, “Revival and Sustainability of Oral Texts, Artefacts and Heritage Sites”.

Under the chairmanship of ISOLA president and Executive Director of the council, Prof. Tunde Akinyemi, the participating countries are Canada, United States; Belgium, France, Sweden, Russia; Egypt, Kenya, Ghana, Cameroun, Ivory Coast, and South Africa.

Participants from 22 universities from Nigeria are expected to be in attendance and the conference, which will have an online audience, will draw from the deep intellectual wells of Prof.Tal Tamari from France and Prof. Gabriel Godini Darah from Nigeria.

Kyiv Hit by Barrage of Drone Strikes as Putin Rejects Trump’s Truce Bid

Sunday Ehigiator with agency report

One person was killed yesterday and 26 others injured after a night of intensive Russian strikes on almost every district in Kyiv, officials said. A pall of acrid smoke hung over the Ukrainian capital yesterday, following hours of nightfall punctuated by the staccato of air defence guns, buzz of drones and large explosions. Ukraine said Russia fired a record 539 drones and 11 missiles, the BBC reported.

The strikes came hours after a call between US President Donald Trump and Russia’s

Vladimir Putin, after which Trump said he was “disappointed” that Putin was not ready to end the war against Ukraine.

Moscow said the war would continue for as long as it is necessary to reach its objectives.

Russia’s overnight air strikes broke another record, Ukraine’s air force said, with 72 of the 539 drones penetrating air defences - up from a previous record of 537 launched last Saturday night.

Air raid alerts sounded for more than eight hours as several waves of attacks struck Kyiv, the “main target of the strikes”, the air force

said on the messaging app Telegram.

Footage shared on social media by Ukraine’s state emergency service showed firefighters battling to extinguish fires in Kyiv after Russia’s overnight attack.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the strikes as one of the most “demonstratively significant and cynical” attacks of the war, describing a “harsh, sleepless night”.

Noting that it came directly after Putin’s call with Trump, Zelensky added in a post on Telegram: “Russia once again demonstrates that it does not intend to end the war.”

Speaking about the highlights of the conference, the convener and Oral Literature expert, Prof. Gboyega Kolawole, said the sub- themes of the conference will also explore the collection and digitization of yet to be documented oral forms across genres, performance of festivals and rituals for national and international reconciliation and healing, and also mythmaking and folk cultural centres in urban spaces.

According to him, other areas of interest will be on “Narratives of heritage, ritual sites, buildings, monuments and artifacts for national goals, oralities of healing and ethno-conservation of biotic and abiotic factors, as well as mystic cults and magico-religious chants, songs, rituals for divination, healing and therapy.”

The convener stated that for a holistic approach, other areas to be factored into the conversations will dwell on, “Reconfigurations of the oral literary field and data collection tools and methods in fieldwork, technology and advancement in pedagogies in oral literature within cultural hegemonic contexts, and the role of new media in the dissemination, transmission and preservation folklore.”

Yet, others in the category of the sub themes will include the (re)classification of oral forms like myths and legends, and finally, the 21st century corroborative/confirmative role of science disciplines such as archaeology, geology, astrophysics, biology, and embryonic biology, particularly in pre-existing oral texts. This also will fall in line with the role of technologies of infrared, carbon dating space-satellite imaging, and chronology machine in the identification, location and authentication of artifacts and heritage sites.

It is anticipated that beyond the academic discourse, societies will be more united through the rich folkloric heritage that serves as an underexplored goldmine.

Kuni Tyessi

Olukayode

EXPRESSION “H

‘Fail Woefully’ Wrong

E said the salvation of the country cannot (could not) be found in any of the existing political parties.”

“7 LGAs violent-prone (violence-prone) in Bayelsa elections—NGO”

“Pa Ukoha was a selfless community leader, (otiose comma) who committed his personal resources to the upliftment (uplift) of Igbere community.”

“Mbah handsover (hands over) 65 security vehicles to police”

“Here are the personalities that grace (graced) the occasion.”

“Two of England’s most successful clubs will on tomorrow (delete ‘on’) go head-to-head in the Premier League as Manchester United take on Liverpool.”

“Incessant fuel tanker fire (fires) worries (worry)

Obi of Onitsha

“…so that our people will live a prosperous, safe and secure lives (life) in their environment (environments)….”

“…as cost of raw materials skyrocket (skyrockets)”

“RUGA: Why farmers, herders (herders’) crisis (crises) persist—Don”

“Even a child in this nation knows that the police derives (derive) its (their) enabling and operational authority from the dictates of the Centre….” The paper’s Metro Section institutionalized this same lexical bondage in one of its headlines: “In Kano, Police allegedly shoots (sic) tanker driver over bribe” Its Editorial was equally not left out in this particular police howler: “Nigerians would no doubt be happier to hear from the Nigerian Police what it is (they are) doing to enhance its (their) capacity….”

“The ban on tinted glasses is even more reprehensible because the security benefits it can deliver is (are) far from certain.”

“Gov, Reps demand his arrest over (for) inciting comments on 2023”

“A week’s trail on the heels of pirates reveal (reveals) how Nigerians lose billions of Naira to the kingpin….”

“Court remands Edo lawmaker in prison over unlawful possession of firearm” The lawmaker

was remanded in custody—not in prison!

“That is why the Presidency must show more leadership and tact before jumping into a battle just because it thinks it has the power to crush the enemy—real or imagined.” Get it right: the enemy—real or imaginary.

“Nigerian scientists have failed woefully.”

THE SUNDAY INTERVIEW: …have failed abysmally (not woefully)

“Let me also make this point that our scientists have not done creditably well over the years.” No overkill: either creditably or well.

“Insurgents await ransom, assure on ex-minister’s safety” ‘Assure’ is a transitive verb. It must take an object.

“Restoring sanity on (to) the road should be the first tangible step if he is serious about….”

“The result was that what was supposed to be a consensus agreement willingly entered into by….” ‘Consensus agreement’? Next time, just choose one.

“It was flurry of activities in Abuja last week.…” A flurry or a hive of activity….

“The minister said government’s desire to licence (sic) a second carrier is (was) born out of the…” General view: borne out.

“Knowing fully well that Abacha was a key factor in the Babangida regime.…” Intelligent commentary: knowing full well.

“Some blind beggars on a street in Lagos Island” Beggars in a street on (not in) Lagos Island.

“…Catholic cardinals who converged at (on) the Vatican for a three-day meeting….”

“Manhunt begins for killers of award winning (award-winning) police chief.”

“…writes (writes to) the president to intimate him of (to) the hardship ravaging the land.”

“The civil servants have got pay rise, yet their purchasing power have (has) been decimated.”

“The ITSC equipment was damaged early this week by a heavy rainstorm....” In the interest of telecoms, delete ‘heavy’-–which

is contextually otiose, just like ‘heavy downpour’!

“Every moneybag (moneybags) wants you to know when he is celebrating….” ‘Moneybag’ is the sac used in putting money, while the owner is a moneybags.

“A professional must update his knowledge in his chosen career otherwise he becomes a mediocre.” The way we write: otherwise he becomes a mediocrity or mediocrist. ‘Mediocre’ is an adjective that cannot function as a noun except in a collective manner (the mediocre).

“The emergence of vigilante (vigilance) groups to combat the activities of men of the underworld is only symptomatic of lack of faith in the ability of the police to guarantee….”

“The assurance from the IGP is therefore supposed to act as a soothing balm.” Is a balm not supposed to soothe? Does it do the opposite?

“…it will be much more so with one involving a police personnel.” ‘Personnel’ is a collective term. Use ‘policeman’, ‘officer’ or ‘cop’.

“But how do we prevent hunger in 2027 when politicians will engage themselves (one another) in a do or die (do-or-die) battle for re-election.”

“VP condemns do or die politics” This way: do-or-die politics.

“The race to Government House in Kano has began in earnest as….” Without any effort: The race has begun….

“…those who would have uttered (what?) them reduced everyone to spectators while they reached for each other’s throats.” Get it right: each other’s throat or one another’s throat (depending on context).

“Knowing what to wear and how to compliment (complement) it goes a long way….”

“The state, therefore, does not deserve the treatment being currently meted to it”. Classical expression: being meted out to it.

“Chief of Naval Staff advocates for increased productivity via industrialization” When used as a verb, ‘advocate’ does not admit ‘for’. Let us avoid verbiage in headline casting: Naval Chief advocates increased productivity.

“For the university to recommend that students

St. Lucia and Presidential Omniscience

It must take an extraordinary kind of calmness - bordering on either detachment or delusion - to abandon a country in severe distress for an extended “official visit” to a Caribbean island no one imagined featured on Nigeria’s foreign policy radar. Yet, that is precisely the bemusing script that has just played out before our eyes. As one crouched over the writing desk for this piece, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, democratically elected to preside over the affairs of over 200 million highly expectant citizens, has chosen this moment - of all moments - to lavish diplomatic energy and national prestige on St. Lucia.

Yes, you heard right - St. Lucia! A picturesque island of just over 180,000 people, known more for beach weddings, banana plantations, and honeymoon brochures than for multilateral summits or global policy shaping. And the timing couldn’t be more appalling. At home, Nigeria groans under the combined weight of hyperinflation, insecurity, collapsing education infrastructure, and an alarming disconnect between governance and the governed. Yet, our leader finds it strategic to “exchange ideas” with a nation whose GDP is barely one-tenth the combined wealth of Lagos Island.

One must ask: what exactly is the attraction? What does Nigeria stand to gain? Or more accurately, what does he stand to gain?

Speculations, of course, are rife. Social media investigators and diaspora gossip circles are already buzzing about an old friend of the president - a certain permanent representative of St. Lucia to the United Nations - said to have been a close associate from those blurry Chicago days. If that’s true, then one begins to fear that statecraft in this government may not be immune from the contagious pull of private affiliations and soft landings. But we won’t dwell on unconfirmed suspicions. There are more pressing absurdities to unpack.

Take a moment and reflect on the ghastly irony: the President of Nigeria pledges, reportedly, to help strengthen the democratic and educational institutions of a small island state - while primary school pupils under his very nose in the Federal Capital Territory have been out of school for over nine weeks due to unpaid salaries and unresolved industrial disputes. A bitterly ironic scene where the headmaster’s own house is in tatters, yet he flies off to help paint someone else’s classroom in another continent.

This is not statesmanship. It is performative diplomacy at best, and wilful negligence at worst.

Even if we try very hard to stretch the limits of strategic imagination, one struggles to pin down the value proposition of a prolonged stay in St. Lucia. Is there a United Nations General Assembly holding there? No. A Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting? Not at all. Any bilateral trade deal worth shouting about? None that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has deigned to publish. So, pray tell: What is the merit - political, economic, or strategic - of this tropical excursion?

We must now interrogate the moral clarity (or lack thereof) of a leadership that repeatedly behaves like a reluctant landlord in its own house. Nigeria today is a mess of emergencies begging for executive attention: food prices that defy gravity, a currency so anaemic it needs crutches, insecurity that stalks our highways and homes like a persistent ghost, and a public service structure rusting from decades of corruption and indifference. These are not the kinds of issues one can manage from beachside briefings or

should pay for the damages while they have….” A common mistake: except in legalese, ‘damage’ cannot be pluralized.

“…rather than investigating and finding out who were involved and check against future re-occurrence: Beyond recurrence, can an event yet to take place happen in the past?

“…the university is pointing its accusing fingers in the direction of the lecturers.” True idiom: point a/the finger. No inclusion of ‘accusing’ or inflection of ‘finger’.

“It is our belief that we members of the alumni association of our Alma Mata (Alma Mater) have unique roles to play in the restoration of sanity on our university campus.” It is…restoration of sanity to (not on) our campus.

“Isn’t it funny that it is the beak with which a bird builds it’s (sic) nest that it uses to scatter it.”

Possessive: its

“…the AU summiteers concentrated almost exclusive (sic) on the political independence and liberation of countries in (on) the continent.”

“Monday’s action, which started at dawn, was as a result of the breakdown of series of negotiations…” An agendum: a series of negotiations.

“According to investigations, the deceased was said to be resting alone in his room at about 9.p.m….” Every reporter should be decisive based on timing which description to use: either at or about 9 p.m. The two cannot co-function.

“According to the source, the institution has a very high percentage of failure in the last academic year.” Reported speech: the institution had (not has).

“… that the authorities of the institution was (were) still waiting the result of the police analysis of the bomb”.

“…in the next three years, its per capital income would have ...” This way: per capita income. “Then it was catalogue of misses for the Super Eagles.” In the spirit of qualification: a catalogue of misses.

candlelit dinners with foreign diplomats. What has become painfully clear is that successive Nigerian leaders - and Tinubu is fast confirming this pattern - often appear more interested in the perks and privileges of the office than in its suffocating responsibilities. Governance here has become a seasonal performance, rich in costume changes but poor in plot development. How else do you explain a situation where an “official visit” becomes an impromptu vacation in the middle of national turbulence?

Across more developed and serious democracies, a leader’s extended absence is often occasioned by unavoidable global commitments: summits, war diplomacy, economic forums, or urgent climate talks. Even then, such trips are brisk, focused, and always tethered to tangible national interests. But here, we make a public spectacle of unseriousness. While Nigerians at home occasionally queue for hours at petrol stations, dodge bandits on the highways, and watch food prices climb higher than Mount Patti (in Lokoja, Kogi State), our number one citizen is possibly sipping fruit cocktails with the Lucian governor-general, plotting how to teach democracy to a country that has enjoyed peaceful transfers of power since our oil boom days.

The tragedy is not just in the action itself, but in the disturbing normalisation of such leadership recklessness. A nation that has become so accustomed to impunity now shrugs when its president prioritises photo-ops abroad over fire-fighting at home. That resignation, that dangerous coping mechanism, is what permits these cycles of governance failure to persist.

And so, the citizens wait. They wait for their voices to be heard over the din of sycophancy. They wait for government policies that do not crush the weak while enriching the elite. They wait for a public education system that

fajalive1@gmail.com

08033622806- (SMS Only)

works, for hospitals that don’t depend on charity, for roads that don’t consume human lives in pothole-induced horror. Above all, they wait for a leadership that sees public service not as a retirement plan, but as an obligation to elevate the standard of living for all Nigerians.

Perhaps that wait is foolish. Perhaps it is hopeful. But what it cannot be is eternal. At some point, someone must say - loudly and repeatedly - that the emperor is naked. That a government which cannot prioritise its own people has lost the moral right to lecture anyone else on development. That a president whose ministers sleep soundly while millions cannot eat or learn is not leading - he is loitering. Let it be known, then, that we object. Not with vulgarity or venom, but with the solemn indignation of citizens who know when they’re being played. A St. Lucia jaunt might seem like a footnote in a long story of misrule, but it is telling. It tells of how far removed the leadership class is from the suffering masses. It tells of a tone-dea fness that no spin doctor can disguise. And it tells of a man who, perhaps unknowingly, is da ncing ever so confidently towards the graveyard of legacies.

History, after all, has a cruel sense of humour. It remembers. Even when the beach breeze dies down and the cameras turn off, it remembers who fled the burning house to admire another man’s wallpaper. And when the final account is written, it may yet say: He had the chance to govern a great people. Instead, he chose a postcard.

What to Consider Before Early Retirement

Last month, 28-year-old Principal Software Engineer at Moniepoint, Julian Duru, made headlines after announcing his retirement from paid employment after working for 10 years.

Duru, on his X handle, disclosed how he joined Moniepoint upon graduation when he was yet 20, and how he achieved

In his parting words, the young lad hinted his interests and curiosity, as well as live his

“This is a resignation from paid employment, continue to do everything I can to support my fellow humans with whatever resources

Duru’s announcement sent the social into

optimism, inspiration and even advised on hard work and dedication are truly inspiring, at your pic very young and have achieved this this great achievement? “

Tales of young folks standing down as early as For some reason, many view such a move as not limited to poor economic situation, late education and employment as well as risk of living the rest of one’s life on one’s terms. Nigeria stands at 60, the Director of Centre

attention to a shifting trend among the present generation, whom he said are getting more inclined to entrepreneurship than traditional employment.

economic growth across all sectors, and he

career shift.

“Young entrepreneurs like Duru and others for long-term success. Their ventures may not

OTHER BUSINESS STORIES

early enough.

In 2012, the United Kingdom reported early

This decision, although it comes with among the youth in modern days. Like Duru, renowned actress and media personality, Nancy noting she started working since she was 17 to Defending early retirement, a Financial/

very much active, adding that late retirement can leave one redundant.

retirement poverty- a situation where individuals

a decent standard of living after they retire. clear sense of purpose from an early age. early, and adopting a culture of savings and unnecessary spending, and channel money

strategy is quite key.

“Retirement poverty is real if you don’t early, know your goals, and identify the right vehicles of investment that suit your timeline.

“It is also important to avoid the trap of consumerism and peer pressure. Don’t live a

needs and not want, continuously educate

“Prospective retirees must ensure they have operate, and another in their hometown. That should incorporate two or three companies structures can insulate one from the vicissitudes

Accountants Key in Tracking Corporate Sustainability, Solvency, Says Expert

the profession has stepped up in scope, playing vital role intransformation. importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) automating routine accounting functions.

SystemSpecs Drives

SystemSpecs has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing tech solutions with technology.

The recognised talents were winners of the company’s annual Children’s Day Essay Competition (CDEC),a platform devoted to critically engage with tech tools to drive positive change in society.

percent increase in participation from the previous year.

strategic and data-driven decision-making. These innovations

remain vigilant to emerging regulatory environments and learning, and ethical leadership, ensuring that the profession

Teens’ Interest in Tech with Reward

with winners in junior and senior categories receiving N1 milThe second and third-place finalists also earned N750,000 and N500,000, respectively.

She said, “Even when I had to rewrite my essay many times, I future does not wait as well as a need to aim higher to do more. The firm revealed further that CDEC witnessed a significant female participation, with girls accounting for 61 percent of entries orphanages and children with special needs further reflected the initiative’s dedication to promoting inclusivity.

creativity and purposeful education.

itel Energy Strengthens Presence in Renewable Energy Market

Provider of Solar Solutions, itel Energy has reinforced its

to growing demand for alternative energy solutions, amid The new outlet serves as a retail and technical support point

that the outlet was intended to provide hands-on product interaction, onsite consultation, and prompt technical support

for customers and partners operating in Lagos and environs. The event gathered key industry players, EPC engineers,

In his remark, General Manager of Flotel Electronics Limited, John Nwoye, stated that the physical shop and support team -

understands the Nigerian customers and the market. From warned.

the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), indicating the current progress is not enough.

AUTO WORLD

2026 Mustang FX Package Blends Vintage Styling With Modern Execution

The 2026 Mustang FX Package blends vintage styling cues with modern execution to show how Mustang can highlight its legacy while still looking toward the future. According to the automaker, the timing is perfect. Nostalgia for the 1980s is at an all-time high, while adults born in the 1980s and 1990s are entering the Mustang market while retaining a fondness for the Fox Body of their youth.

The FX Package is available with two unique wheel designs. The standard wheel is a new take design, while the Performance package draws inspiration from iconic Fox Body designs. Both

White and feature color-matched center caps, stamped with the Mustang GT wordmark in an all-new font. and patented by the Ford Vehicle Personalization team, this small touch was inspired by the wordmark that appeared on the front and rear of the 1987-1993 Mustang models. That same touch now appears on the rear window of coupe models with the Mustang FX Package.

Other Oxford White touches include the 5.0-liter, GT, and Mustang Pony badges, while Performance pack models feature Oxford White nostrils in the Gloss Black hex-patterned grille – standard Mustang FX Package models will feature Dark Carbonized Gray nostrils. White taillights brighten up the rear, and along with the Performance pack 19-inch wheel, will be available in the Ford Performance Parts catalog. These two options give current and future seventh-generation Mustang owners yet another way to personalise their vehicle.

The 1980s vibe is present in the cabin, as well, with new upholstery inspired by the seat inserts of the Fox Body. Perforated leather with black and white elements mimics the plaid inserts of the 1980s seats and is available on both the standard bucket seats and optional, coupe-only Recaro

L-R: Group Managing Director, Coscharis Group, Mr. Josiah Samuel; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Acting Consul-General, U.S. Consulate, Lagos, Ms. JoEllen Gorg; and General Manager, Coscharis Group, Mr. Abiona Babarinde, during the 249th USA Independence anniversary, supported by Coscharis/Ford, held at the Consul-General residence in Lagos... recently

sport seats. The playful inserts pair naturally with the dual-contrast stitching, featuring City Silver and Adriatic Blue thread on the seats, dash, door panels, steering wheel, and center console. A Mustang GT IP badge, in the FX

interior changes. A subtler touch, though, is the Dark Alley trim from the Mustang Dark Horse.

Along with the arrival of the FX Package, the 2026 Mustang will introduce one new color and reintroduce another. Adriatic Blue Metallic, featured in the Mustang FX Package gallery, is inspired by Teal from the third-generation Mustang. Orange Fury Metallic Tricoat, returns available on Mustang EcoBoost, GT, and Dark option for personalizing their 2026 Mustang with new seatbelt options, available in International Orange, Prime Blue, and Black with a red stripe.

Suzuki By CFAO GM Dedicates Transport Awards to Loyal Customers, Team Work

Mrs Aissatou Diouf, General Manager of Suzuki By CFAO has expressed delight over her recent “Distinguished Auto Personality of The Year Award’” and the “Mini Bus Of The Year Award” given to the Suzuki Eeco at the last Nigeria Transport Lecture/Award held at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja GRA, Lagos.

The general manager of the enterprising Suzuki dealership noted that: “Receiving the ‘Auto Personality of the Year’ award at the 11th Nigeria Transport Lecture is truly an honor that collective success of our entire Suzuki by CFAO team.”

According to her, “This award validates our commitment to transforming Nigeria’s automotransportation accessible to everyone.

“It reinforces our belief in our tagline. There is a Suzuki for everyone’ - we’ve worked tirelessly to ensure that whether you’re a small business owner, a growing family, or an entrepreneur, needs.

“This recognition motivates us to continue innovating and expanding our impact in Nigeria’s transport sector, particularly in providing solutions that drive economic growth and improve mobility for all Nigerians.”

She said, “I dedicate both awards - the ‘Auto Personality of the Year’ and our Suzuki Eeco’s ‘Mini Bus of The Year’ recognition - to our incredible

General Manager of Suzuki By CFAO, Mrs Aissatou Diouf, displaying her award plaque team at Suzuki by CFAO who share our vision of revolutionising transportation in Nigeria. This achievement belongs to every team member who believes in delivering quality, reliability, and value to our customers. I also dedicate it to our loyal customers and the Nigerian market that has embraced Suzuki vehicles. She further declared that, the Eeco’s Mini Bus

the commercial transport sector as proven through makes it an ideal solution for Nigeria’s growing logistics and passenger transport needs.

“We expect this recognition to further strengthen our position as we continue bringing innovative automotive solutions that support Nigeria’s economic development and provide sustainable transportation options for every Nigerian.”

TIPS OF THE WEEK

8 Signs You Could Have Brake Problems

Car brake repair and brake servicing are important parts of proper vehicle maintenance. When you take care of your brakes, they’ll take care of you when you need them most. However, even with regular maintenance, the brakes on your vehicle may require a professional inspection and servicing if you encounter one or more of these eight brake problem warning signs and symptoms.

1. Brake Light On

If a brake light indicator appears on your dashboard, it’s either time for your regular maintenance or it’s an alert to a potential problem. These are some of the more common dashboard alerts that appear in today’s vehicles. Note: Consult your vehicle owner’s manual for possible causes for these and other indicators.

Brake Pad Indicator

This light lets you know your brake pads may be wearing out, along with other non-visible reasons. Either way, get them inspected at Les Schwab.

Brake Fluid Level Indicator

This light will flash when your brake fluid levels are low. You may be able to top off the fluid to keep your brakes functioning properly, or stop by your local Les Schwab and we’ll give you a hand.

Parking Brake Indicator

When this light appears, your parking brake is either engaged or there is a problem with it. To diagnose the possible issue, engage and disengage your parking brake. If the indicator goes away, there are no issues. If it still won’t go away, come to Les Schwab.

2. Squealing or Squeaking Noises

Odd or unusual noises coming from your brakes aren’t always a sign of problems. It could just be a foreign object lodged in your brakes (a pebble or debris). It could also be your brake-pad wear indicators. These bits of metal in your brake pad come in contact with the rotor to emit a high-pitched noise when you apply the brakes. This lets you know it’s time to get your brake pads replaced.

3. Grinding Noises

Grinding noises, whether you have disc or drum brakes, could mean your brakes need servicing right away. In some cases, the sounds may be the brake pad or shoe scraping on metal contact points. A trip to Les Schwab is recommended when you hear or feel any form of brake grinding.

4. Wobbling, Vibrating, or Pulsing When Braking If your steering wheel or vehicle shakes, vibrates, or pulses when you apply the brakes, it could be an uneven rotor. Brake rotors, which are a vital part of your disc brakes, are large metal discs attached to both ends of your vehicle’s axle. When you hit the brakes, the brake pads push against the rotors, which stops your wheels from spinning. Wobbling, vibrating, or pulsing can occur if the rotor surface area is not flat (has uneven areas). Over time, it’s normal for the rotor surface to wear down and possibly become uneven. Braking friction, when you apply the brakes, results in the transfer of pad material to the rotor surface. If the pad material transfers unevenly, you may experience vibration when braking. Left uneven, the material will continue to accumulate, worsening over time. During brake servicing, the face of the rotor should be smoothed or evened out to correct flaws and keep you from feeling a wobble when you brake. If the rotors are too far worn to be serviced, they will need to be replaced.

5. Leaking Fluid

When you apply your brakes, a lot of things happen all at once. An important part of the process involves brake fluid. This is used to create hydraulic pressure, which pushes the brake pad against the rotor (the large metal disc attached to the end of your axle). If your vehicle has no brake fluid, you won’t be able to stop safely. Check your vehicle’s brake fluid often. Not sure how? Stop by Les Schwab and we’ll be glad to help.

6. Spongy or Soft Brakes

When you press on the brakes, you want to feel some resistance. If they feel soft or the pedal goes all the way to the floorboard, it could indicate air or moisture in the braking system. It could also be a problem with the master cylinder, which is often located in the engine compartment near the brake pedal.

(Source:LesSchwab

BACKPAGE CONTINUATION

SULTAN “DETAINS” MINISTER OVER REBIRTH NIGERIA

many other nations with abundant natural resources confirm my thesis."

He drew attention to the fact that nations like Japan, the United Arab Emirates and Israel are where they are today in terms of development because of their highly developed human capital. Their current wealth, heightened national security and progress in the midst of the harshest geographical settings are all traceable to the quality of their NATIONAL resources.

He added: "Every new-born child is only a demographic fact and a potential citizen. The child acquires substantive citizenship by imbibing what the home, schools, vocational skills, and the accepted societal norms make of him. That is why we speak of child upbringing as citizenship education, in terms of socially accepted reflexes as the rubrics of social cohesion."

He likened the nation to a human capital manufacturing factory, wherein values are the primary raw material for fashioning citizens. He likend our homes, schools, vocational training platforms, religious bodies and religious leaders, traditional institutions and economic engagements as "...the tools used by every human community throughout history to manufacture the product or "commodity" it calls citizens."

He described parents, teachers, religious and traditional rulers, crafts masters and political leaders as “factory workers” every society uses for designing and putting out an “end product” it calls the citizen. Thus, it is our homes, the school system, our societal norms, the type of role models we promote, and the moral character of our leaders that determine everything.

Raising questions about the quality of

Nigeria's “factory workers”, he asked; "... how are they “processing” the children left in their care?" After a pause, he also asked: "What is the quality of their end products, in terms of employability, sense of propriety, responsible citizenship, character and personal grooming?" He asked further: "Why is there so much “market rejection” of the products of our human capital development factory?"

The speaker pointed out that we cannot create a stable, prosperous, inclusive and secure society without a culture of hard work, thrift, responsible wealth acquisition and management. He said that "National character” is determined by the behaviour of majority of the people and that we cannot say "what we want the world to believe about us", despite what everyone is seeing and saying about us. Then he added: "Not so much of our noble traditional and cultural values of the past can be seen in the life we live today."

Then, to drive home the nexus between citizenship, national resources and genuine development, the speaker went ahead to show the lessons we can learn from the story of national transformation exemplified by Finland. He explained how Finland, whose mainstay and major national preoccupation was agriculture, was radically transformed by good leadership and the simple business of improving the quality of its human capital. Aggressive education drive, the inculcation of new national values and the creation of a more enlightened national workforce was all it took.

Everything changed, as new learning and teaching curricula were created and it eventually became mandatory for all teachers to acquire Masters degrees. A knowledge upgrade was also facilitated for everyone in every field.

Then the practice of having three teachers per class was introduced and Finland trained more teachers, until they met the target.

Of the three teachers in every class, two teachers focused on instruction while the third focused on students struggling with learning challenges. Inclusivity was the word.

Today, Finland has one of the best education systems in the world. Its national security network draws more from enlightened citizens loyalty and national consciousness than from military hardware. While some 47% of US teachers come from the bottom 3rd of college graduates, Finnish teachers come from the top 10%. This is the academic and skills stock from which doctors, astronauts, lawyers and the best scholars are produced all over the world.

The Finns know their “national interest”. What we call “law enforcement” is, for them, part of a general moral responsibility that starts from the home and permeates the entire society. It has all evolved into a collective national “will” dominating the aspirations of the citizens and every level of leadership.

The speaker pointed out that our dysfunctional human capital production line is a major problem; and that this fact alone explains why our human capital manufacturing plant is churning out easily-rejected products. He spoke of our millions of underemployed, unemployed and unemployable young adults who are not groomed to understand the concept of “National Interest”.

In speaking of national traditions and honour as elements of the REBIRTH template, the speaker emphasized the pristine tenets of the Nigerian Union and the needed adjustments to contemporary, and emerging, trends in global societal value evolution. He said: "Because human societies are primarily conceived as

ecosystems for creating, maintaining and sustaining optimal social homeostasis, the Nigeria REBIRTH project is a Clarion Call for all Institutions of State to stand forth as “extensions” of the family; wherein they all act in loco parentis, by guiding, supporting, restraining, rewarding or punishing where necessary."

That way, the system will not be producing more deviants, fewer responsible parents, fewer competent professionals, fewer craftsmen and fewer patriotic citizens. The system will also eliminate the distortion of values, the elevation of wrong role models, impunity and permissiveness, as well as the dissociation of leaders from the realities they are supposed to be dealing with.

The speaker added that the negative tooling of a generation as purveyors of banditry, cybercrimes and sundry fraud will end if REBIRTH is accepted, understood and implemented. He concluded by saying that once the problems of poor parenting, a faulty educational system, improperly groomed social demographic groups, the criminalization of the future generation and wrong role modeling are dealt with, the Re-inventing of the Essence, Beauty, Integrity, Resourcefulness, Traditions and Honour of our fatherland would have been accomplished.

He concluded his presentation with 13 specific recommendations and 13 implementation strategies for making each recommendation a reality. Amidst applause the Sultan, an ever present guest at any event that would add value to our nationhood anywhere in the country, shook hands with the speaker and cheerfully said: "Thank you and well done, Okey. That was very incisive and insightful indeed." The minister and others concurred.

CELEBRATING DECADE OF PURPOSE: 10 YEARS OF BUILDING AFRICA’S FUTURE

Armed with these experiences, driven by a desire for something new and bigger, I sought and won the “lottery” to join Africa’s premier trade development finance institution in June 2015. The tension had become real by May 2015, Alex Otti was stepping down as CEO of Diamond Bank, sweeping changes, and the men whom I had called bosses for the past years had to all step down. What were the odds that I would be resuming just before the tsunami in Diamond Bank to a plum job in Afreximbank’s Abuja Regional office?

My journey at Afreximbank over the last 10 years has been indescribable, nothing short of redefining and fulfilling. I still recall clearly boarding the Egypt Air flight to Cairo at the Muritala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, for the final stage of my interview in May 2015. Dr Okechukwu Oramah, Vice President, Business Development and Corporate Banking was sitting in the business class cabin whilst I was headed to the economy cabin; I was not going to miss the opportunity to strike a conversation as it was likely he could be on my interview panel the next day. I introduced myself as a banker at Diamond Bank and he warmly asked if I was headed to Cairo for holidays but I replied that I was headed for a job interview at Afreximbank. He giggled and wished me the best as I set off for my seat, he asked me to “make the best of things” a phrase that has remained with me till date. He chaired the panel next day, the rigour with which he tested my knowledge of the oil and gas industry will forever remain indelible.

Early Responsibilities: Manager, Business Development

On July 6, 2015……Ten years ago, I resumed as Manager, Business Development, Anglophone West Africa covering Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Gambia, Cape Verde, Sao Tome and Principe and Togo.

Deal Execution and Continental

Impact (2015 – 2020)

In September 2015, Dr. Okechukwu Oramah was appointed President of the noble institution. Given the size of the Nigerian economy, I soon realised that I was cardinal to the execution of the plan that President Oramah had set for the Bank. He wanted to reform the direction of trade in Africa with intra-African trade at the core of his mandate. In October 2015, I found that “Zaria boy” seated in a meeting with Africa’s richest man, Mr. Aliko Dangote. President Oramah was discussing how to deepen intra- African trade of cement from Nigeria to ECOWAS, from Ethiopia to COMESA from Mtwara- Tanzania to SADC. Three months later, we had financed the acquisition of 1,000 trucks for Dangote Ghana and 6 months later, 550 trucks in Tanzania. By 2018, we had availed facilities in hundreds of millions of dollars to advance the construction of Dangote refinery and fertilizer complex. President Oramah was bold and audacious; he worked like time was against him, he led from the front and proved that impossibility was nothing.

Afreximbank was supporting Indorama fertilizer to establish its new lines, expanding the Onne Port for Intel to boost oil and gas cargo handling. I was having fun watching how one man was revolutionizing Africa’s trade and trade-enabling infrastructure. I was happy to be a pen in his hands or rather the proverbial machete cutting down all the bushes to ensure the path was clear. Economic headwinds came at Africa so fiercely, President Oramah led us to design strategies which became synonymous with his 10-year stint as we later saw with Covid and the Russian Ukraine crisis. We had the cutest acronyms for our intervention to insulate the continent. The Countercyclical Trade Acceleration Facility (COTRALF) was the panacea for the 2018 commodity price crash crisis; he developed the Pandemic Trade Mitigation Facility (PATIMFA) as the panacea for the 2020 Covid crisis whilst the Ukraine Crisis Adjustment Trade Finance

Program for Africa (UKAFPA) was designed to stop Africa from catching cold when Russia sneezed on Ukraine.

Second Term Highlights (2020 – 2025)

By the end of his first term in 2020, we had financed the acquisition of yellow goods and construction of roads in Sierra Leone and Liberia with the objective to open up economic corridors and link production centres to consumption bases, we built diagnostic centres in Liberia, giving critical working capital to a cocoa processor in Ghana to ramp up capacity utilisation, financed and commissioned a brand new 5 star Hilton Hotel in Cape Verde. Afreximbank had become a dominant player in the oil and gas sector with billions of dollars arranged and availed in support of national oil companies as well as indigenous players exploiting the rich hydrocarbon reserves, Africa is blessed with. Afreximbank had established itself as the life support to the Central Banks and commercial banks, providing critical liquidity for their operations and economic relevance.

Riding on the success of the first term, the second term has been even more innovative and audacious. Afreximbank onboarded and approved confirmation lines in favour of more than 250 African banks and lived true to be the “trade finance bank for Africa”.

The bank commissioned three landmark initiatives which were significant in my career giving me a new vista to three new industries. The first was the Africa Quality Assurance Centre. President Oramah in multiple instances would ask how Africa would promote export manufacturing without complying with the standards of the target export markets. This project was conceptualised and commissioned along the Lagos- Ibadan expressway. There were many meetings, many trips to Ogun state but today the facility is built and functional (operated by Bureau Veritas) and is the beacon of hope for commodity exporters who want

to ensure zero rejection of their exports. In March 2025, the Bank commissioned the second project which is the Afreximbank Africa Trade Centre (AATC). A massive twin tower suspended on 9 floors, the AATC is perhaps Abuja’s most advanced and aesthetically built edifice. The AATC houses a 149 bed 4-star business hotel, Conference Centre, Trade Information Centre, office spaces which is befitting for an institution which has immensely impacted the continent and Nigeria, in particular. I still recall with relish how we chased the approval for the land, litigations which threatened to set the project back but today, the AATC is blazing the Federal Capital of Nigeria’s skylines because President Oramah believed ‘’impossible is nothing’’ !

The third which is perhaps the most audacious is the Africa Medical Centre of Excellence commissioned in May 2025. Without healthy people, how can Africa talk about economic emancipation, without fit for purpose facilities how can Africa reverse medical tourism and the vicious brain drain of its doctors and nurses!

Recognition and Reflection

With more than US$52 billion disbursed in Nigeria and such landmark initiatives, little wonder President Oramah was honoured with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. As President Oramah bows out of service after 10 years of meritorious service, I am proud to have marked my 10th year work anniversary serving under his guidance and learning under his tutelage. As I take stock of my 10th year Afreximbank work anniversary, I am grateful to my Maker and to everyone who has held my hands till date. I am proud of what I have achieved in support of the continent’s development spanning Nigeria, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Gambia, Cape Verde and Sao Tome.

I look forward to another fruitful 10 years under the incoming leadership of Dr. George Elombi.

THEFRONTLINES

JOSEPH USHIGIALE

jushigiale@yahoo.co.uk,

joseph.ushigiale@thisdaylive.com

08023422660 (sms only)

Alia: In the Face of Challenges, Providing Hope

Benue State once acclaimed as the food basket of Nigeria and home to the now defunct famous BCC Lions of Gboko was in the news recently not for what it’s famed for but the gory massacre of almost 200 innocent Benue citizens including women and children in their sleep by terrorists.

According to the incremental horrendous graphic accounts narrated by the few survivors, terrorists in their numbers armed with sophisticated weapons swopped on Yelwata, a sleepy rural farming community situated right in the middle of the Lafia - Makurdi expressway in the middle of the night.

In the intervening three hours while the attack lasted, the terrorists had a field day matcheting, shooting and killing innocent women and children in their sleep.

By the time the mission was over and they were finally repelled to neighbouring Nasarawa state where they reportedly came from, Yelwata community was almost wiped out. At least each family lost one or two members and in some reported cases, families were completely wiped out of the face of the earth.

But why? From historical perspectives, Benue, because of its lush vegetation and table arable land, has always been a target of Jihadists dating back to the 18th century.

After conquering Kanem Borno Empire and establishing their presence through emirate councils implanting their Emirs to superintend the natives, the Jihadists headed down toward Ilorin, crossing into Plateau and finally Benue. But Benue people strongly resisted their incursions and bravely fought them off.

To date, Benue remains the only area which never fell to the incursions of the Jihadists. This may have explained why perhaps from that time, Benue has never seen peace as the Jihadists remain resolute in conquering and bringing the people under Islamic rule.

It is therefore not surprising that Benue and Plateau States have witnessed relentless attacks by these terrorists who are bent on bringing them to their knees to embrace their ways of life. Following the outcry that greeted the massacre, Tinubu had to reschedule his planned trip to Kaduna to enable him visit the survivors of the massacre.

With his service chiefs in tow, the President hosted a town hall meeting including traditional rulers, the past and

present governors of the state were all present to chart the way forward to peace and progress.

A summary of most contributions pointed at the much orchestrated farmers- herders clash as the cause of the recurring killings in the two states.

It will be recalled that although the Samuel Ortom administration enacted the anti-grazing law to stop the roaming of cattle openly, it exacerbated rather than provided a solution. Why? As laudable as the law is, it has failed to address the fundamental rights of others.

The ideal step to take was the establishment of a ranch first to provide an alternative for the herders because once that is done, it would have provided a legal ground for the anti-grazing law to take effect and anyone contravening it will face prosecution. Therefore, the loophole of not providing an alternative was exploited for both religious and political reasons. Now we need to understand that constitutionally, no law bars anyone from any state ditto the Fulani herders. Miyetti Allah cashed in on this loophole and has been exploiting it to its full advantage.

But is it really a farmer-herder crises? Historically, Benue farmers lived peacefully with the traditional Fulani herders whose cattle grazed peacefully without bloody skirmishes.

During this period, herders and farmers lived in harmony going to the same markets and trading in the different products produced by both sides.

The traditional rulers were custodians of law and order and any infraction by either sides, a fine will be pronounced and it must be redeemed without delay.

Thus, if your cattle stray into another person’s farm and destroy his crops, the owner will be notified and the specified fines must be paid promptly to assuage the side whose crops have been destroyed.

However, today those confronting the farmers are not herders but terrorists. Their mission therefore is to carry out and complete the 18th century Jihad of Othman Dan Fodio by annihilating the people take over their lands and establish their fiefdoms.

The question now is who are these terrorists, where are they from, who brought them and what’s their mission? It’ll be a great injustice to attempt to find a solution to these relentless killings without looking critically at the causative factors.

The terrorists are foreigners whose origin could be traceable to Libya and other notable crisis ridden Sahel countries; their sponsors could be foreigners supported by their local collaborators who are bonded by religion and their motive is to islamized these

Babalakin at 65: Stoic, Unwavering

Steve Omolale

Before 7am on October 15, 2015, he had arrived the premises of the then NICON Noga Hilton Hotel (now Transcorp Hilton), Abuja, where we members of his media team scheduled an interview appearance for him on his preferred Channels Television breakfast show. This was after he had delivered a paper on Public-Private Partnership (PPP), one of his areas of specialisation as a businessman, at the then ongoing Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) seminar moderated by a former Managing Director of United Bank for Africa (UBA), Mr. Phillips Oduoza.

We had agreed to meet at 7am for the live interview. But instead of the media team, comprising my humble self, Dipo Kehinde, Remi Ladigbolu and Ayo Olaosun, waiting for him at the lounge of the hotel, myself and Kehinde who arrived first were shocked to see him already waiting for us! We were uncomfortable with this. While approaching him, we thought he would reprimand us for coming late,

no thanks to the early morning Abuja traffic. Rather, billionaire businessman, erudite lawyer, philanthropist and our employer then, Dr. Bolanle Olawale Babalakin (SAN), fondly called BOB by his friends, colleagues, workers and admirers, gently said, “you guys are just coming”! We apologised profusely. Shortly after and even as we were still feeling guilty for coming late, he requested we move to the restaurant of the hotel where he also asked us to join him at his table for breakfast, which he paid for. Our other two colleagues, Ladigbolu and Adeosun, and other members of the larger team, including Dr. Bayo Adaralegbe, later joined us, following which we all moved to the Outside Broadcasting (OB) studio of Channels Television at the premises of the hotel for the interview.

Besides his always gentle mien, the overall welfare of his many workers is paramount to Babalakin. This he personally demonstrated to me and Olaosun when the managements of two of his companies, Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL) and Resort International Limited, where

states.

In all these happenings, is Alia complicit? Those looking at these issues on the face value believe Alia has failed as a Chief Security Officer of the state. To them, he should deploy state resources to confront these terrorists. Really?

This sort of thinking is too simplistic, mischievous and smacks of crass ignorance. It is true that the 1999 Constitution as amended confers the CSO’s responsibilities in the governor to secure his immediate environment and maintain law and order.

Alia’s role is to garner his security chiefs and mobilise them to protect the lives and property of the citizens in the state. It is his responsibilities to deal with arm robbery, kidnap, all local crimes etc. Yet, it is an open secret that the governor can not deploy federal troops stationed in his vicinity because that power belongs to the commander in chief of the armed forces. So where will Alia mobilise against foreign terrorists when such powers reside in Abuja?

Therefore, it is clear that when the President advised the governor to hold a stakeholders meeting and carry out reconciliation, he was still looking at the solution from the traditional Fulani settlement system.

Even this sort of arrangement is still in place in Benue and being superintended by the state government in liaison with the traditional rulers. There was a reported recent case where the Fulani herders complained that their cattle were rustled by some criminals in the community. A conflict resolution meeting was held with the parties involved where the Governor reportedly openly blamed his people for indulging in criminal activities of rustling Fulani cattle, killing and devouring the meat.

A Tiv youth who was at the venue of the meeting confirmed that the governor’s outburst was impolitic and tactless. “He literally threw us under the bus with that unguarded comment and we are very angry.” He scoffed. Will the President advise for reconciliation work? Mr. President, the situation in Benue and Plateau States has taken a new international dimension; it is no where near the scenario where you mediated as Lagos governor. It is beyond the scope of these two CSOs. A portion of Nigeria is under siege and being buffeted by international terrorists and you must act fast to save the daily carnage and eventual take over of parts of Nigeria.

were pleasantly surprised when he just opened his bag and dolled out a huge sum of money to us to celebrate the victory.

we worked respectfully, procured brand new official cars for some senior managers. At meetings with him while the documentation of the cars was being done, he was personally monitoring the situation by asking us always, “have they given you two your cars?” He did not stop asking until we eventually got the cars.

Of course, and as part of workers’ welfare and in consonance with the law of the land, no management jokes with monthly pension deductions and remittances in any of his firms under the Resort Group. This is the reason some of us who are qualified for it collect our monthly pension till date.

On another occasion after winning one of the court cases instituted against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at the Federal High Court, Lagos, we all moved to our head office on Victoria Island to write the story in a celebratory mood. The joy on his and everybody’s face was palpable. With Olaosun, I jokingly approached him and said, “we (the media team) need to ‘wash’ this court victory Sir”. We

Above are a few clear demonstrations of who Babalakin, an Officer of the Federal Republic (OFR), who turns 65 today, is: gentle, considerate, compassionate, stoic, unswerving, unwaivering, highly disciplined and very firm. These and more are the reasons he has largely succeeded in all the sectors of the economy, be it law, aviation, construction, real estate, hospitality and others, where he has been operating for decades.

Many who know him very well can attest to the fact that he is a survivalist who, like an army general, has fought several battles in the journey of life and has triumphed over all of them because he believes the innermost strength of a man manifests when he faces the vicissitudes of life. Navigating the turbulent ocean that life is, is a herculean task, which can drown many, while others can survive by cheer will and determination.

Time and time again, the scion of the

and legendary jurist and retired Justice of the

Alia

renowned

Supreme Court, the late Justice Bolarinwa Oyegoke Babalakin and his wife, the late Alhaja Ramatu Ibironke Babalakin, an astute hospital proprietress, has proved that he is a jack of all trades and master of all.

GLOBAL SOCCER GLOBAL SOCCER

IMAOBONG NSE UKO

One More Too Many

TheNigeriaathleticscommunityisstillgrapplingwiththenewsthatNigeriansprinter,FavourOfili, hadrecentlysubmitteddocumentstotheAthleticsIntegrityUnit,AIU,tochangeherallegiance toTurkeyoverallegedneglectandadministrativefailuresbytheAthleticsFederationofNigeria, AFN,andtheNigeriaOlympicsCommittee,NOC,asNigerianathletes’performancehasbeen underwhelmingininternationalmeetsinrecenttimes,asidefromTobiAmusan,whohasbeen enjoyinggoodtimesatdifferentmeetsaroundtheglobe.Disappointingasthatmaylook,butforan athletetoenhancehersystemwithbannedsubstancesisunacceptable,asitnotonlybringsshame tothepersonalityinvolvedbutthecountry’snameisalsobroughttodisrepute.Thatwastheplightof ImaobongNseUkoafterbecomingthe10thNigerianathletetobebannedfordoping

Nigerian athletics community was during the week dealt with a heavy blow after the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) officially announced the ban of one of Nigeria’s quarter milers, 20year- old Imaobong Nse Uko, for two years for dope violation.

In the updated list of athletes sanctioned for dope related offences published on July 1, 2025, Uko’s ban was retroactively effected from June 5, 2024, the date of her infraction, making her the 10th Nigerian athlete on that list of athletes banned for dope.

Although the AIU failed to list the exact offence for which Uko is being punished, she was provisionally suspended from the track from July 7, 2024 with all the results of the races she clocked from that date all now annulled.

She will not be eligible to return to the track until July 23, 2026.

Uko at just 17, shot into limelight when she won the 400m gold at the U20 World Athletics Championships in Nairobi, Kenya with a Personal Best of 51.55secs.

The following year, she went on to win the National Sports Festival 400m gold medal. She defended the quarter-mile gold at the 2021 NSF and followed up qualifying to run in Nigeria’s 4x400m relay at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo in 2021.

Uko is one of Nigeria’s brightest hope to step into the shoes vacated by the likes of Falilat Ogunkoya and Fatima Yusuf.

In that updated list of athletes serving suspensions for various infractions, Imaobong Uko is the 10th Nigerian athlete so banned.

Former shotput record holder, Vivian Chukwuemeka and Henry Azike top the list with life bans followed by Blessing Okagbare who is serving 10 years suspension. Glory Okon, Stephen Eloji, Ada Princes Bright and Yinka Ajaiyi are all serving four years each for similar dope infractions.

Though Nigeria’s growing list is cause for alarm,

the issue of doping extends far beyond its borders.

The AIU’s global sanctions report highlights athletes from Kenya and India as leading violators, pointing to systemic weaknesses in the global anti-doping framework—especially in countries where oversight and enforcement are underfunded or compromised.

LIST OF BANNED NIGERIAN ATHLETES

Vivian Chukwuemeka

Discipline : Shot put Sanction Lifetime ban

Henry Azike

Discipline : Sprinting Sanction Lifetime ban

Blessing Okagbare

Discipline : Sprinting & Long Jump

Sanction 10-year ban

Divine Oduduru

Discipline : Sprinting

Sanction Provisional suspension (AIU seeking 6yr ban)

Goodness Iredia

Discipline : Long/Triple Jump

Sanction: 3-year ban (Feb 26, 2025 – Feb 25, 2028)

Grace Nwokocha

Discipline : Sprints/Relays

Sanction: 3-year ban (Aug 3, 2022 – Aug 2, 2025

Infraction : Tested positive for Ostarine and Ligandrol at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Stephen Eloji

Discipline : 400m

Sanction : 4-year ban (May 2, 2024 – May 28, 2028)

Ada Princess Bright

Discipline : Sprints Sanction : 4-year ban (Infraction on July 6, 2023; ineligible until Sept 21, 2027)

Substance : Metenolone

Event : In-competition test during Nigeria’s National Trials in Benin City.

Yinka Ajayi

Discipline : Sprint Sanction: 8-year ban (Dec 23, 2021 – Jan 25, 2030)

Infraction : Tested positive for Metenolone and charged with tampering. Initially handed a 4-year

This global pattern reveals the urgent need for anti-doping reform, greater investment in testing and athlete education, and structural improvements to ensure integrity in sport.

For Nigerian athletics, the challenge is multi-faceted: implement strict testing regimes, educate athletes from a young age, and ensure clear accountability mechanisms at all levels of governance. Without these, the risk of further reputational damage remains high.

As for Uko, her fall from grace may yet serve as a valuable lesson. Redemption is possible, but only if Nigerian sports stakeholders confront the hard truths about doping, address the root causes, and commit to a cultureof clean competition.

Until then, the nation’s dream of global track and field glory remains tainted by the specter of banned substances.

Meanwhile, theAthletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has denied allegation that it has been docile in communicating the dangers and risks of doping violations and rules to athletes.

This coming after Uko was handed a 2-year ban by the Integrity Unit of World Athletics for doping violations.

The AFN has insisted that it has been diligent in communicating anti-doping rules to athletes through its doping department headed by Professor Ken Anugweje.

The federation emphasized that athlete discipline is crucial and will continue to spread anti-doping principles to athletes.

It has carried out series of out-of-competition tests on elite athletes and warned them about career preservation through discipline.

assist

AFN said

recovery

The federation however advised athletes to properly cross-check vitamins and recommendations to avoid endangering their careers.

Speaking on the development, President of the AFN, Chief Tonobok Okowa, insisted that the federation under his watch will not tolerate any athlete taking substances to enhance his or her performance on the track and field.

“There is no room for cheats and athletes who are not willing to follow the rules in the Federation,” began Okowa who recently secured another term of four years as AFN President. He recalled that before the last Olympic Games in Paris, “AFN funded 60 per cent of the drug tests carried out on our athletes. This goes to show how serious on dope matters in this Federation,” Okowa stressed yesterday.

The AFN president insisted further that the advocacy for zero-tolerance for dope in track and field will continue at all competitions organised by the federation.

“At all major competitions on the home front we carry out our drug advocacy campaign to the athletes, coaches and technical officials involved in the business. The last of such seminars took place during the just concluded National Sports Festival (NSF), tagged Gateway Games 2024 in Abeokuta, Ogun State,” Okowa recalled. While regretting the ban slammed on Imaobong Uko, theAFN President the federation will continue to communicate anti-doping rules to athletes through its Dope Department headed by Anugweje.

Nse Uko anchoring Nigeria’s 4x400m relay

The

it regretted Uko’s ban and will

her

until she serves out her ban.

Peter Rufai’s Family Expresses Appreciation to Nigerians

The family of late Nigerian goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, has expressed their gratitude and appreciation to soccer loving Nigerians for love shown to them since the demise of the former Super Eagles safehand.

In a release signed by the children, brother and sister of the legendary goalkeeper on behalf of the family, reads- “With total submission to the will of Almighty God, it is with a heavy heart that we announce the transition to glory of our father and brother, the legendary for-

mer Super Eagles goalkeeper, Prince Peter “Dodo Manyana” Rufai,who died at six O’clock in the morning of Thursday, 3rd of July, 2025, after a brief illness, aged 61 years old.

“Despite our shock and sadness at his rather sudden demise,weareindeedextremely grateful to GodAlmighty for the impactful life that he granted him through a very successful football career that made him to become world famous.

From a humble beginning with Sharks Football Club

Iorfa Backs Arokodare to Succeed at Fulham with Iwobi, Bassey’s Support

Former Super Eagles striker, Dominic Iorfa has backed Fulham as the ideal next destination for Tolu Arokodare.

Iorfa noted that the presence of fellow Nigerians Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey at Craven Cottage would ease the striker’s transition to life in the Premier League.

Arokodarehasbeenlinkedwith a summer move to Fulham, with reports suggesting the Premier League club are leading the race for his signature ahead of rivals in England and across Europe.

Speaking exclusively to FootyAfrica, Iorfa revealed that the 24-year-old’s aerial prowess and strong work rate are qualities that make him a perfect fit for English football.

“I reckon it will be a good move for him as he has the physical attributes to play in England,” the former Queens Park Rangers striker said. “He is a big, strong lad and can also run, so he will not have much problems adjusting to life in the Premier League if the move pulls through. I believe he will

of Port Harcourt in the late 1970’s, he rose steadily through the ranks in the national team to become Nigeria’s first FIFAWorld Cup goalkeeper at USA ‘94 and France ‘98. He also featured at four Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals and played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s victory at Tunisia ‘94. Altogether,hewon66capswiththe nationalteamandscoredonegoal.

Rufai also enjoyed a successful club career that took him from homeinNigeriatoBeninRepublic, Belgium, The Netherlands, Portugal and Spain.

be a better player if he moves to England.”

Iorfa, who represented Nigeria at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, added that Fulham offers a familiar environment that could help Arokodare thrive immediately.

“We have two players there at Fulham that can help him settle down,” he continued. “WithAlex (Iwobi) and Calvin (Bassey), he will be in good hands there if the move happens. They are already familiar with each other in the Super Eagles, so it will be easy. And financially, it will be better for him as I am sure he will earn more in England than he does in Belgium.”

Super Falcons Favourites as 13th WAFCON Kicks off Today

Nine-time champions, Nigeria loom larger than any other participant as the 13thWomenAfrica Cup of Nations finals begin in the Kingdom of Morocco today.

Winners of the inaugural edition that their country hosted in 1998, the Super Falcons also took homethediademin2000,2002,2004, 2006,2010,2014,2016and2018,and lookforwardtothethirteenthedition withconfidencebutwithoutbeing sardonic.

Home-boy Coach Justine Madugu has taken the option of the good-old-wine-and-freshfruits-from-the-vineyard selection

approach, and is satisfied that he has a team that can hold its own right from the first match against Tunisia on Sunday.

“We are very focused on our realisable and achievable target of Mission X. The girls are ready and are showing real hunger for victory and team spirit is high. We are looking forward to our first matchonSundayagainstTunisia,” Madugutoldthenff.comafterthe FalconsstrolledpastWestAfrican rivals Ghana in their last pretournament friendly on Sunday. Victory over Cameroon’s IndomitableLionessesinAbeokuta

and a scoreless draw with Portugal in earlier friendlies have buoyed the spirit and gait of the Super Falcons.

Nigeria’s squad drips with talent, experience and purpose, with Africa’s best for the second year running, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie the rock that most teams will find too difficult to crack. Defender Osinachi Ohale has decades of experience and provides the spine for a rearguard that includes hardworking and efficient young ones likeAshleigh Plumptre, Tosin Demehin, MichelleAlozie, Sikiratu Isah, Miracle Usani and Shukurat Oladipo.

Explosive Fights, Music, Herald AKO9 Championship

From Football to Athletics to Chess: MTN Championing Interests of Young Nigerians

In Nigeria, sports are more than just games, they are powerful catalysts for ambition, unity, and hope. Whether it’s the roar of a football crowd, the electrify- ing rush of a sprint finish, or the silent intensity of a chess match, these moments shape the dreams and destinies of millions of young Nigerians. At the heart of this movement is MTN Nigeria, a brand that has gone beyond connectivity to become a leading champion of youth empowerment across the nation.

MTN’s unwavering support for young Nigerians is rooted in its bold “GO MAD” campaign (short for “Go Make a Difference”). This campaign isn’t just a slogan; it’s a rallying cry, an invitation for every Nigerian youth to step forward, seize op- portunities, and create positive change in their communities and beyond. It is this philosophy that underpins MTN’s invest- ments in sports and education, driving the brand to nurture the next generation of footballers, athletes, and thinkers. Nowhere is this commitment more visible than on the football pitch. MTN’s involvement in Nigerian football stretches from grassroots initiatives to the highest levels of the game. As the official communications partner of the national football teams, including the Super Eagles and Super Falcons, MTN has brought fans closer to the action, transforming match days into nationwide celebrations. Through vibrant watch parties, viewing centre activations, and engaging campaigns, MTN has rewarded fans with unforgettable experiences and life-changing prizes. These

efforts have coincided with a golden era for Nigerian football, with stars like Ademola Lookman and Chiamaka Nnadozie earning continental accolades and the Super Falcons being crowned Female Team of the Year at the CAF Awards.

But MTN’s vision to “Go Make a Difference” extends far beyond football. Recognising the limitless potential of Nige- ria’s youth, MTN launched MTN CHAMPS, a ground- breaking athletics programme inspired by Jamaica’s legendary high school championships. Since 2023, MTN CHAMPS has become the nation’s largest schools’ athletics competition, attracting over 20,000 athletes from more than 1,700 schools. Through regional qualifiers and grand finals in cities such as Benin, Lagos, and Uyo, MTN CHAMPS is discovering and nurturing the country’s next generation of track and field stars. The programme offers elite training, scholarships, and pathways to international competition, empowering young athletes to make a dif- ference in their own lives and communities.

The results speak for themselves. In just two sea- sons, MTN CHAMPS has produced 20 Most Valuable Players, many of whom are now training for global meets and pursuing higher education through sports scholarships.

The initiative’s unique blend of athletic and academic sup- port is helping to redefine youth empowerment in Nigeria. As Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, MTN Nigeria’s Chief Marketing Of- ficer, noted, “MTN Champs is a platform that continues to grow, transform and inspire the future

Ibilola Solaja Champions Female Inclusion Ahead of MASA Isonyin Marathon

of athletes and athletics in Nigeria. At MTN, we remain committed to supporting the dreams and aspirations of Nigeria, not only through innovative products, but involvement in socially impactful initiatives especially in football and athletics.”

MTN’s “GO MAD” philoso- phy also embraces the world of intellectual sports. By sponsoring the Ecobank National Schools Team Chess Championships, MTN is championing a new kind of difference-maker, one who excels in strategy, patience, and mental agility. Through this partnership, young Nigerians are given the chance to compete on a national stage, sharpening their minds and building confidence. MTN’s support for chess sends a powerful message: making a difference isn’t limited to physical feats; it’s about excelling wherever your passion lies. What unites these diverse initiatives is MTN’s belief in the transformative power of opportunity. In a country where most citizens are under 18, MTN’s investments in football, athletics, and chess are more than corporate social responsibility, they are a strategic commitment to the nation’s future. The “GO MAD” campaign is the thread that ties it all together, inspiring millions of young Nigerians to dream big, work hard, and make a difference, on the field, on the track, at the chessboard, and in life.

As Nigeria’s sporting and intellectual landscape continues to evolve, MTN’s multifaceted approach stands as a testament to the power of purposeful partner- ship. In every goal scored, every race won, and every chess match played, the dreams of young Nigerians are being realised, one bold difference at a time.

The energy was equally electric between Richard Muzaan and Israel Mano, with Richard promising an early finish in the co-featured light heavyweight clash. Building on the energy of the AKO9 face-off, tensions came to a head inside the cage as top fighters from across Africa competed in nine intense bouts.

In the main event (Lightweight Division): Jean Do Santos of Benin Republic defeated Nigeria’s Emmanuel Nworie via Submission (Triangle Choke). Jean showcased patience and precision, securing a well-timed Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

The African Knockout (AKO) Championship delivered another unforgettable night of MMAaction atAKO9, held on June 13, at the Pistis Conference Centre, Lekki. The event brought together elite fighters, vibrant fans, and groundbreakingentertainment for an eclectic celebration of African combat sports. The action began at the official Face-Off on June 12, where fighters locked eyes and ignited anticipation for their upcoming bouts. In the main event face-off, Jean Do Santos and Emmanuel Nworie delivered a fiery staredown—refusing to break eye contact in a moment that hinted at the war to come.

earned him Performance of the Night (POTN).

As preparations continue for the 2025 MASA Isonyin Marathon, prominent rice merchant, APC stalwart, and respected Ijebu Igbo businesswoman, (popularlyChiefMrs.IbilolaSolaja known as Madam Jumlar) has thrown her weight behind the event by sponsoring the top prize for the women’s category.

Her support marks a major boost to the highly anticipated race, scheduled forAugust 23rd inIsonyin,IjebuNorth-EastLocal GovernmentAreaofOgunState. The event is steadily gaining attentionasoneoftheregion’smost transformative sports projects Themed “Running for Ex- posure,” the marathon aims to uncoveremergingathletictalent, whilepromotinghealth,unity,and community growth. Organised bytheMASAFoundation,under the leadership of Dr. Muideen AdegboyegaSalami(MASA),the race will host over 2,500 runners, with prizes totalling nearly 10 million. Winners in both male

and female categories will take home 1.5 million each.

Chief Solaja said her sponsor- ship aligns with the broader vision of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to elevate sports as a tool for national de- velopment.

“As a loyal party member, I amproudtokeyintotherenewed hope reforms being championed byPresidentTinubu.Sportsisfinally gettingtheattentionitdeserves,and I’mhappytosupportinitiativesthat directlyimpactyouthandwomen,” shesaid.

prize,Onchoosingtofundthewomen’s she added: “I wanted to encouragemoregirlstoseethemselves as worthy of recognition. Female athletesoftenfacegreaterhurdles, andthisismywayoftellingthem: yourdreamsarevalid.”

Widely known as one of the nation’sleadingbulkricedealers, MadamJumlar’scommitmentto themarathonreflectsherbroader passionforyouthempowerment and community development.

“Sport helps young people stay focused, build discipline, and to believeinthemselves.Wemustcontinue to use it as a positive force,” she said, while urging others to support the initiative.

With the APC administration prioritising sports in its reform agenda—evidentintherevivalofthe NationalSportsCommissionandthe appointment of Shehu Dikko and Bukola Olopade as Chairman and DirectorGeneralrespectively—events liketheIsonyinMarathonarejoining agrowingwaveofimpactfulsporting programmes across Nigeria. Ogun State, in particular, has become a hub of national and international sporting activities, and the Isonyin Marathon is proudly contributing to this momentum.

Dr. Salami praised Chief Solaja’s gesture as both strategic and in- spiring. “She’s not just sponsoring a prize—she’s investing in dreams.

Peter Rufai in action

Uyo MVPs posing before the camera at MTN CHAMPS S3 Grand Final in May

triangle choke to seal the victory—an effort that

The referee declares Jean Do Santos the winner by submission in the Lightweight main event at AKO9

Solaja

17TH ECONOMIC COOPERATION ORGANISATION SUMMIT....

Sultan “Detains” Minister Over Rebirth Nigeria

The minister simply complied when he, alongside other dignitaries present, were advised to first listen to the Keynote Lecture go for the group photograph on the programme later. The occasion was the 25th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI). The venue was the auditorium of the National Institute for Strategic and Policy Studies (NIPSS). The title of the AGM lecture was "Template for Nigeria's REBIRTH."

He humorously said that he was urging the minister who is a Muslim to not go anywhere until after the lecture, because he is the Commander of the Faithful. The auditorium roared with laughter when the minister, the Governor's representative and others announced that they would comply and be of good behaviour.

Then the Sultan said: "We all need to

listen to this lecture and, particularly, to this speaker whom I read, hear about and listen to regularity on television. Just from the title of the lecture alone, I am convinced that it will

be about what we can all do, to optimize the possibilities, fortunes and sustainable future of our fatherland. So, let everyone who is in hurry to leave reconsider because we all need to listen to this keynote lecturer."

The speaker said that he was using REBIRTH, as an acronym for Re-inventing the Essence, Beauty, Integrity, Resourcefulness, Traditions and Honour of the Nigerian State. He explained that his notion of a template for national rebirth was an "ideas roadmap" predicated on the belief that the Nigerian reality of today can be changed, and that the nation can be ‘reborn’ if specific measures are taken by individuals, schools, Institutions of State, and the Federal, State and Local Governments.

He observed that to reinvent the essence of a land of diverse and interdependent cultures and economies is to identify and nurture what can still work for the nation in today’s world; with new narratives, new attitudes and new values. The drive for integrity will then manifest as

a new resolve to adhere strictly to the basic principles of unity.

He said that his speech would go beyond problem enumeration to specific suggestions on how the politics, the economy, leadership at all levels, the people and the nation’s global profile can be improved organically. This would lead to a secure, more productive and forward-looking Nigeria; resting on sustainable development paradigms and responsible citizenship.

Then he submitted thus: "The human being is the primary resource of any nation. Nations are not made rich or poor by their natural resources, but by their “national” resource - which is human capital. It is this "resource" that can create a safe space for wealth creation in a livable environment. The merciless poverty in some states of the federation, and also in countries like Venezuela, Congo DRC and

Celebrating Decade of Purpose: 10 Years of Building Africa’s Future

Leadership Change on the Horizon News had begun to filter in that there was going to be a leadership change.

Palpable tension permeated the corridors and everyone was edgy about what the change was going to bring. Just as a great man on whom this decade-long journey revolves around said, of which I quote, “every change has a consequence,” everyone wanted to know if the incoming leader would take the Bank forward and importantly, steer its growth to the next phase. This should not be a problem, it was his father’s bank afterall.

My Early Banking Journey (Diamond Bank, 2006 – 2015)

I joined Diamond Bank Plc in 2006, fresh from the National Youth Service, and was excited about my new life. At 24 years, I

Gabriel Durojaiye Olowononi, as without the strong discipline I imbibed from him, my fifty thousand Naira salary was enough for me to “swing from the chandelier”. I however, tried to keep focus and in 2007, I enrolled into the University of Lagos MBA programme knowing that if I was going to become a formidable banker, I would need a degree relevant to my new chosen profession; banking, having studied Microbiology as my first degree. By 2009, I had bagged my MBA specialising in Marketing. Whilst I started humbly as a teller, paying cash and receiving deposits, I kept focus and took my chances and opportunities. In ten years, I gained experience in Branch operations, Treasury operations, Loan Recovery/Remediation, and finally pitched my tent in Corporate Banking, managing the Oil and Gas upstream portfolio with a stint in Power. It was a good time to be in this

space as I racked experience financing rigs, vessels, and purchase orders for contracts in the upstream sector. I was exposed to Reserve Based Lending, participating in major deals and divestments by the IOCs. I anchored two major transactions to re-enter a marginal field and establish First Oil as well as the execution of a Production Sharing Contract, where the minimum work programme required the drilling of 3 brand new wells and surface facilities which earned the conversion of the OPL to an OML. This was huge for me as I learnt the end to end chain from seismic data collection to site preparation to rig mobilisation to spudding to drilling and casing, completion, installing of surface facilities to oil production.

My Transition to Afreximbank was boisterous, vibrant, and settled in quickly into Lagos life. I was lucky to have been raised by a strong man- the late Professor

Oramah

Sultan Abubakar

Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu (left), and Azerbaijan President Heydar Oghlu Aliyev, during the 17th Summit of the Economic Cooperation Organisation in Khankhendi, Azerbaijan…yesterday