SATURDAY 9TH AUGUST 2025

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The immediate past Governor of Sokoto State and serving Senator, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal,

Experts Hail $346 Million US-Nigeria Arms Deal as Boost for Terrorism Fight

Dangote at the Zenith Bank 35th Anniversary and Chairman's Dinner

Chuks Okocha, Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja, Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City,

Trump, Putin End Meeting, Hope Rises for Ceasefire

Sunday Ehigiator with agency report

President Donald Trump and Russia’s Vladimir Putin met for about two and a half hours yesterday, at a summit in Alaska that started with a handshake, a smile and a ride in the presidential limousine — an unusually warm reception for a U.S. adversary responsible for launching the largest land war in Europe since 1945.

Trump and Putin met behind closed doors with top advisers on efforts to end Russia’s war in Ukraine. When they greeted each other, they gripped hands for an extended period of time on a red carpet rolled out at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage. As they chatted, Putin grinned and pointed skyward, where B-2s and F-22s — military

aircraft designed to oppose Russia during the Cold War — flew overhead, the Associated Press reported.

Reporters nearby yelled, “President Putin, will you stop killing civilians?” and Russia’s leader put his hand up to his ear as though to indicate he couldn’t hear them. Trump and Putin then shared the U.S. presidential limo known as “The Beast” for a short ride to their meeting site, with Putin offering a broad smile as the vehicle rolled past the cameras.

It was the kind of reception typically reserved for close U.S. allies and belied the bloodshed and suffering in the war Putin started in Ukraine. Although not altogether surprising considering their longtime friendly relationship, such outward friendliness before hours of closed-door meetings is likely to raise concerns from

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders, who fear that Trump is primarily focusing on furthering U.S. interests and not pressing hard enough for Ukraine’s.

Russian President Vladimir

Security experts have applauded the recent approval by United States authorities to sell highcalibre munitions and equipment to Nigeria, aimed at bolstering the country’s fight against deadly terrorist and bandit groups terrorising parts of the nation.

The experts insist that the $346 million US-Nigerian arms deal will significantly enhance the ongoing efforts against terrorism, kidnapping, banditry, and other emerging security threats.

This comes as the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, yesterday, stressed that national security was not just about human security, arms and ammunition, but requires collaboration and support from all stakeholders.

Ribadu, said this yesterday, in Abuja at the second edition of the Association of Telecommunication Companies

of Nigeria (ATCON) strategic meeting with stakeholders on the Executive Order for Critical national information infrastructure.

The US State Department had earlier approved the potential sale of munitions, precision bombs, and precision rockets to Nigeria for an estimated cost of $346 million (about N532 billion).

The approval, which was conveyed in a statement signed by the Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), confirmed that the required certification had already been delivered to notify the US Congress of the possible sale.

According to US authorities, the approval followed the Nigerian government’s request to purchase: 1,002 MK-82 general-purpose 500 lb bombs; 1,002 MXU-650 Air Foil Groups (AFGs) for the 500 lb Paveway II GBU-12; 515 MXU-1006 AFGs for the 250 lb Paveway II GBU-58.

The request also included:

Putin showed a wide range of facial expressions as he reacted to questions from journalists during his meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump. Zelenskyy and European leaders were excluded from Trump and

Putin’s discussions, and Ukraine’s president was left posting a video address in which he expressed his hope for a “strong position from the U.S.”

“Everyone wants an honest end to the war. Ukraine is ready to

work as productively as possible to end the war,” he said, later adding, “The war continues and it continues precisely because there is no order, nor any signals from Moscow, that it is preparing to end this war.”

Nedbank Sells $100m Ecobank Stake to Financier Nkontchou's Bosquet Investments

Kayode Tokede

The Nedbank Group yesterday announced that it has reached an agreement to sell its 21.2 percent shareholding in Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI) to Bosquet Investments Limited (Bosquet Investments) for a purchase consideration

1,517 MAU-169 or MAU-209 computer control groups (CCGs) for Paveway II GBU-12/ GBU-58; 1,002 FMU-152 joint programmable fuzes; 5,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II (APKWS II) all-up rounds (AURs), each consisting of a WGU-59/B guidance section, a high-explosive warhead, and an MK66-4 rocket motor.

Commenting on the latest arms deal, security experts who spoke to THISDAY said the modern munitions, once delivered, would not only serve as a game-changer, but might also signal the end of over a decade and a half of insurgency and terrorism in parts of the country.

A retired Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mike Ejiofor, said the arms deal was a collaborative effort between the two countries to end terrorism in Nigeria and the wider West African sub-region. Ejiofor, who spoke in a

of US$100 million.

This followed the bank’s strategic review of the group’s financial investment ETI, which as from 30 June 2025, was classified as non-current asset held for sale in terms of IFRS 5.

Nedbank Group Chief Executive, Jason Quinn, in a

telephone interview, explained that there was no way the US authorities would sell such high-calibre munitions to Nigeria without making adequate arrangements for their storage. He said, "It should be part of the package because you cannot say you want to tackle insecurity while endangering people's lives. But my excitement is that this is one of the largest single purchases we are making, and with these types of munitions and rockets, it shows the government's commitment to addressing insecurity — especially insurgency and banditry in the North-East and North-West.

"I am sure it is not only about selling the munitions or rockets; there must also be technical support and assistance from the United States to help us utilise the equipment effectively. I think the government must be applauded for taking this initiative, more so when we know that in less than two

statement posted on the bank’s website, explained that the financial institution was pleased to have reached the milestone following the board’s approval to dispose of the asset.

“Nedbank’s decision to sell its ETI investment follows a detailed evaluation of the strategic alignment, financial

performance, and long-term value proposition of the investment and is consistent with Nedbank’s ongoing efforts to optimise its capital allocation and focus on core growth areas. This marks the conclusion of a significant chapter in Nedbank’s journey with ETI spanning many years.

years there will be an election, and the government must have something concrete to show the people in terms of delivering on security — because security threats remain one of our major challenges, and the government promised to tackle them.

"I believe it is a step in the right direction, and the government must be commended for that. My only worry, however, is that I don’t know how long it will take for them to deliver all these munitions and put them to effective use."

The retired spymaster stated that the arms deal was going to give a major boost to ongoing counter-terrorism, counterinsurgency, anti-banditry, and anti-kidnapping operations in the country.

Security and International Affairs Analyst, Dr. Ambrose Igboke, stated that some of the mistakes the Nigerian military made in the past — particularly striking the wrong locations,

ADC, PDP SHOW STRENGTHS IN TODAY’S BY-ELECTIONS EXPERTS HAIL $346 MILLION US-NIGERIA ARMS DEAL AS BOOST FOR TERRORISM FIGHT

(INEC) confirmed that 3,553,659 registered voters are eligible to participate, spread across 32 local government areas, 356 wards, and 6,987 polling units.

Also, in compliance with the judgement of the Federal High Court, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) yesterday, said the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and its candidates would participate in today’s elections.

The coalition political party where opposition has coalesced and adopted, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), however, has alleged that INEC was under pressure to favour a certain political party and urged the electoral umpire not to acquiesce but use the opportunity to redeem its image through being transparent with

the conduct of the polls.

The election has again brought to the fore divisions in the opposition parties as factional Labour Party Chairman, Julius Abure, accused the presidential candidate of the party and former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, of switching parties out of desperation for power. He shot back at Obi after a report that the former governor asked supporters to vote for the ADC candidate in the bye elections.

Ahead of the scheduled polls, the three major parties - the ADC-led coalition, the ruling APC and the PDP - have upped their game in the buildup across the affected states.

Also, not left out in sharpening their armouries for the battle ahead are the Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso-led New Nigeria

People’s Party (NNPP) and the now factionalised LP.

Poll watchers and concerned civil society groups hinted that the parties are seeking to make waves and stamp their electoral relevance in filling two senatorial seats, five House of Representatives positions and nine state constituencies.

According to INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mr. Sam Olumekun, all arrangements had been concluded for the polls, scheduled for Saturday, August 16, 2025.

The exercise would cover two Senatorial Districts in Anambra and Edo States; five Federal Constituencies in Edo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Ogun and Oyo States; and nine State Constituencies in

Adamawa, Anambra, Kaduna (2), Kano, Kogi, Niger, Taraba and Zamfara States.”

The electoral umpire reminded political parties and candidates that campaigns end at midnight Thursday and urged all stakeholders “to adhere strictly to the provisions of the law, regulations, and guidelines” for a smooth process.”

The statement also announced that the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise would resume nationwide on Monday, August 18, with online pre-registration, followed by physical registration from August 25 at 811 INEC state and local government offices.

INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, had, during the Commission’s second regular quarterly consultative meeting

TAMBUWAL: EFCC CAN’T INTIMIDATE ME, SAYS ORDEAL PLOT TO SILENCE HIM

cheering crowd at his residence, pledging to continue the fight for “equitable and democratic governance” in the state.

Speaking on what he termed a “brief visit” to the EFCC, Tambuwal said he voluntarily honoured the invitation extended to him by going to the anti-graft agency office on August 6.

He said after the initial rounds of questioning, the EFCC officials allowed him to return home but requested his presence on August 10 and

11 for further interrogation.

According to him, after hours of questioning during the follow-up visit, his request to return home again was refused by the EFCC officials, who demanded two sureties, specifically directors in the Federal Civil Service with letters of introduction from their employers, before he could be released.

“I told them to go back and tell the Chairman of the EFCC that I am a former Speaker of the House of Representatives

with an unblemished record, a two-term Governor of Sokoto State, a serving Senator, and a Commander of the Order of the Niger. I should be allowed to go on self-recognition,” Tambuwal said.

He stated that despite appeals from his legal team, which included three Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs), the EFCC operatives refused to vary the bail conditions.

As a result, he was detained overnight before being released the following morning after

meeting the bail terms.

Tambuwal, while querying the timing of the EFCC’s actions, and linking them to a broader political plot, said, “Why now?”

He said the current Sokoto State administration had earlier set up what he described as a “kangaroo commission of inquiry” to probe his tenure, which he believed was politically motivated.

The former governor argued that these events were part of efforts to discredit him and

with political parties for 2025 in June, disclosed that the byelections were arranged due to deaths, resignations, and other vacancies declared since the inauguration of the National and State Assemblies in June 2023.

He said, “You may recall that in February last year, the commission conducted nine byelections to fill vacancies resulting from the death or resignation of members,” Yakubu said. “Since then, more vacancies have been declared across the country.”

From the INEC’s schedule, the by-elections will hold in Anambra South and Edo Central senatorial districts; as well as Ovia South West/Ovia South East (Edo), Babura/Garki (Jigawa), Chikun/Kajuru (Kaduna), Ikenne/Shagamu/Remo North (Ogun), and Ibadan North (Oyo)

silence dissenting voices critical of the federal government under President Bola Tinubu.

The lawmaker said, “In Nigeria today, there are two lines: those with Bola Tinubu and his government, and those with the people of Nigeria. We chose to stand with the people.”

Furthermore, he slammed the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for deploying underhand tactics against political opponents, while referencing a common political cliché: “Once you join

which led to civilian casualties — were due to the lack of precision-guided munitions. He said, “With these precisionguided weapons, which can pinpoint the minutest details of where a strike is being made, it will help prevent future collateral damage during military operations.”

Igboke, who is also a Fellow of Chartered Mediators, further explained: “Such mistakes will be minimised, if not completely eliminated. If you observe how Israel deploys its weapons in crisis-prone areas, you’ll see how precise they are. So when we say we are hitting terrorist targets, the weapons guide the troops to strike accurately, without missing or causing civilian casualties.”

The former Army Spokesperson, Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman (Rtd), said the munitions would certainly add value to the counter-insurgency operations against terrorist groups.

federal constituencies.

Others include: Ganye (Adamawa), Onitsha North I (Anambra), Dekina/Okura (Kogi), Zaria Kewaye and Basawa (Kaduna), Bagwai/Shanono (Kano), Mariga (Niger), Karim Lamido I (Taraba), and Kauran Namoda South (Zamfara) State constituencies.

Additionally, the Commission will conduct two court-ordered re-runs in Enugu South I (Enugu) and Ghari/Tsanyawa (Kano) after previous attempts were disrupted by violence.

Also, the INEC Chairman said 30,451 officials are being deployed nationwide, even as elections in Rivers’ Khana II and Zamfara’s Talata Mafara South constituencies remain suspended due to security and legal concerns.

the APC, whatever your sins, they are forgiven.”

Vowing to remain steadfast with the coalition for national rescue, Tambuwal said, “I cannot be intimidated. I cannot be blackmailed. No one can tarnish my record.”

On whether current developments may affect his association with the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC), he laughed off insinuations of likely political realignment with the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Linus Aleke and Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja

With Wave of Fresh Appointments, Tinubu Fortifies His 2027 Game Plan

slams president, says ploy ‘too little, too late’ Peter Obi to Tinubu: Leave politics, focus on governance

Okocha in Abuja and Sunday Ehigiator in Lagos

President Bola Tinubu is reshuffling the political chessboard with a flurry of strategic appointments, in what appears like a calculated attempt to cement alliances, reward loyalty, and secure key power bases ahead of the 2027 elections.

From influential political heavyweights to emerging regional voices, Tinubu’s recent appointments, analysts argued, could tighten his grip on the nation’s political landscape, making it clear that his reelection game plan is already well underway.

But reacting to the development, the fast-rising opposition party, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) criticised Tinubu’s recent

appointments, dismissing them as a feeble attempt to win political goodwill. The party accused the president of nepotism, claiming the move would neither impress Nigerians nor salvage his standing ahead of 2027.

Equally, the 2023 presidential candidate of Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, criticised the President’s latest appointments, calling them nepotistic, poorly executed, and damaging to national unity.

In the past two weeks, the President has made a series of strategic appointments across various sectors, Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

For instance, in the energy sector, the president named Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat, a 39-year-old from Kano State as the new Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian

Sanwo-olu, Uzodinma, Ambode, Others Felicitate Oba Ogunsanwo

Top government functionaries, senior monarchs and dignitaries from all walks of life have extolled the virtues of His Royal Majesty, the Alara of Ilara Kingdom, Oba Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo (Telade IV), as they felicitate him on his five years anniversary on the throne.

The three-day activities to celebrate Oba Ogunsanwo's fifth coronation anniversary started yesterday, in his domain, Ilara Kingdom, in the Epe Division of Lagos State.

Yesterday's activities, according to a statement, included a street parade, Jumat service, a commemorative football match, empowerment and free medical outreach for people of Ilara.

As the coronation activities continue today, several dignitaries have extolled the virtues of the finance and tax-savvy monarch.

In his goodwill message to Oba Ogunsanwo, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwoolu spoke highly of the King.

He said, "In just five years, Your Majesty's reign has left a lasting imprint on Ilara and the wider Epe Division. You have led with wisdom, dignity, and a genuine devotion to the welfare of your people; championing peace, fostering unity and safeguarding the proud traditions of Ilara, even as you embrace the opportunities of progress and development."

In his own letter to Kabiyesi Alara, Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, described Oba Ogunsanwo's reign as impactful. "Through your commitment, hardwork and inclusive leadership, your reign has ushered in unprecedented development and prosperity of the kingdom."

Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

The President also recently appointed Abubakar Yusuf as Commissioner for Consumer

FG Gives

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

Affairs and Dr. Fouad Olayinka Animashun as Commissioner for Finance and Management Services. At the Federal Character

Commission, former House of Representatives member Ayo Hulayat Omidiran was appointed Executive Chairman, with Mohammed Musa as Secretary.

Abia Nod to Borrow $125m from IsDB

The coast is now clear for the Abia State Government to access the long-awaited loan facility of $125 million from the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), in order to execute the state's integrated infrastructure development (ABSIID) projects.

The loan approval was made known in a statement issued by Mr. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, the

Chief Press Secretary to Governor Alex Otti.

He said that the "government is pleased" to announce the loan approval by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) at its meeting on Wednesday, August 13, 2025.

"This approval marks a major milestone in a project that has undergone extensive consultations and procedural steps, and is a critical component of the overall co-financing arrangement for the State’s ambitious infrastructure

development drive," he said.

According to Governor Otti’s spokesman, the total cost of implementing the ABSIID projects "is USD 263.80 million" would be co-financed by international financial institutions and the Abia government.

The breakdown shows that IsDB would provide USD 125 million, USD 100 million from the African Development Bank (AfDB), USD 15 million from the Canada-Africa Development Bank

(CADB), while Abia would put in counterpart funding to the tune of USD 23.80 million. Ukoha noted that "the IsDB facility is particularly significant because its financing agreement must be signed for the project to proceed, given the integrated nature of the co-financing structure". He said that the AfDB and CADB financing agreements had already been concluded, with the AfDB loan agreement signed earlier this year.

Otu Signs N104bn Supplementary Budget into Law, Approves Roads, Electricity, Counterpart Funds Bills

Bassey Inyang in Calabar

The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, has signed the state's Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2025 into law, injecting an additional N104 billion into this year's budget thus raising the total fiscal outlay from N538 billion to N642 billion.

Speaking during the signing ceremony at the State Executive Chambers, Governor’s Office,

Calabar, Otu described the supplementary budget as a “strategic and deliberate intervention” to respond to shifting macroeconomic realities and seize new investment opportunities in critical sectors.

Otu said that the new allocation will be deployed to fast-track the completion of key infrastructure projects, enhance agricultural value chains, strengthen healthcare and education, bolster security, and

drive job creation through targeted investments.

“This supplementary appropriation will reposition our state for accelerated growth. Every kobo will be spent prudently for the benefit of all Cross Riverians,” the governor assured, while thanking the State House of Assembly for its speedy passage of the bill.

In addition to the appropriation bill, the governor also assented to

three other laws, namely: the Cross River State Counterpart Funds (Amendment) Law 2025, which updates donor fund management structures; the Cross River State Roads Funds Law 2025, establishing a dedicated fund for rural and semi-urban road development; and the Cross River State Electricity Law 2025, providing a legal framework for state-level power generation and distribution following constitutional amendments.

NDDC MD, Ogbuku Hails Wigwe University

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has described Wigwe University as a top-tier institution with world-class facilities.

He also reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to

the advancement of education in the Niger Delta region.

The NDDC boss stated this when he received the Vice Chancellor of Wigwe University, Prof. Marwan Al-Akaidi, and his team in his office at the Commission’s headquarters in Port Harcourt.

Dr. Ogbuku who acknowledged the establishment

of Wigwe University as a significant addition to the region’s educational landscape, said it aligns with NDDC’s mission to uplift the Niger Delta through strategic educational investments. He emphasised that NDDC has a long-standing tradition of supporting educational institutions across the region through infrastructure development and scholarship programmes.

“It is not new for NDDC to support universities; it is something we have been doing consistently. We have built hostels, classrooms, provided furniture, computers, and more. We believe in supporting the best within the region."

Chuks

In addition, 27 commissioners were appointed or reappointed, including Kayode Oladele, Lawal Ya’u Roni, Abubakar Atiku Bunu, and Eludayo Eluyemi.

L-R: Head, Monitoring, Evaluation, Research & Learning, Enterprise Development Centre (EDC), Dr. Stanley Ibeku; Deputy General Manager, Partnerships & Financial Services, eTranzact International Plc, Abimbola Reis; Director of Programmes & Projects at EDC, Dr. Olawale Anifowose; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, eTranzact International Plc, Niyi Toluwalope; and Executive Director of Technology, eTranzact International Plc, Olayiwole Okunola, during the unveiling of the ‘Artificial Intelligence Readiness of Nigerian SMEs’ report in Lagos… recently

COURTESY VIST...

Peter Obi: FDI Decline Shows Sign of Uncoordinated Reforms

ADC to FG: Listen to what Okonjo-Iweala is not saying

For the second time in a row, the former governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi has berated President Bola Tinubu foreign trips, describing them as uncoordinated and failed to bring in the desired foreign direct investments into the country. Also, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised the federal government for ignoring the real message in the recent comments by the Director General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, on the state of the Nigerian economy, choosing instead to celebrate the headlines.

Obi had in a statement Thursday by his media aide, Ibrahim Umar, said President’s recent trip overseas makes ''it over 200 days out of 806 days in office,'' noting ''the indifference to our problem is worrisome.'' Obi said that President Tinubu left the country Thursday morning on a two-nation tour and a stopover in another city, reminding him that he is not a tourist but the President of a troubled country.

In the same vein, the former Anambra State governor said, ''While the President, ministers, and other government officials continue their global gallivanting in search of FDI, our poor performance in key governance indicators - such as rule of law, regulatory quality, government effectiveness, and voice and accountability - continues to prove that you cannot attract sustainable foreign investment with poor leadership and governance.''

The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the last general election said, ''According to a recent report by the National Bureau of Statistics, FDI to Nigeria sharply declined by about 70 per cent in the first quarter of 2025, falling to only $126.29 million from $421.8 million in the last quarter of 2024. Of the total capital importation of about $5.64 billion in the first quarter of 2025, FDI accounted for only about 2.24 per cent, compared to 8.2 per cent in Q4 2024.

''Disturbingly, about 90 per cent of the imported capital went into speculative money market instruments. With such a high proportion of capital importation flowing

ASCON Restates Commitment to Human Capital Development

The Director General of Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON), Badagry, Mrs. Funke Femi Adepoju, yesterday, stated that the institution has launched a nationwide skills-gap survey, trained 578 public servants from across the country, and sealed high-profile partnerships aimed at reshaping Nigeria’s public service for the future.

Speaking at a ceremony marking her first 100 days in office, Adepoju described the results as proof of ASCON’s renewed commitment to elevating public service performance through human capital development, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for a transformed, efficient, and citizen-focused public service.

Speaking on the theme: 'Elevating Public Service

Performance through Human Capital Development', she revealed that ASCON’s new state compact survey, covering all 36 states, has provided a snapshot of skills and institutional weaknesses in the public service.

"This is already shaping a major curriculum overhaul to include emerging competencies such as climate governance, gender responsiveness, behavioural insights, and digital interventions alongside existing programmes in leadership, ethics, fraud prevention, dispute resolution, and administrative competence," the DG said.

Adepoju noted that collaboration with subnational governments has been rekindled, with Lagos State returning to ASCON after years of absence, and fresh engagements underway with Borno, Delta, Taraba, Adamawa, and multiple federal parastatals.

into speculative investments, the impact on industrial growth or job creation is highly insignificant and elusive, given the ease with which such “hot money” can exit the economy,'' he stressed.

He further stated, ''Let me reiterate: sustainable economic growth and development cannot be achieved through poor leadership and weak governance—problems that are clearly reflected in declining FDI and our poor performance in key governance indicators.

''To further illustrate our

precarious situation, capital flows to the manufacturing sector declined exponentially by 32.1 per cent, dropping to only $129.92 million in Q1 2025 from $191.92 million in the same quarter of 2023. There is no better confirmation of the lack of trust in this government, whose reforms remain uncoordinated and largely reactive.

''In 2024, while global FDI flows declined, FDI to Africa significantly increased to $97 billion—a rise of about 75 per cent compared to 2023.

Europe, the United States, and China were the main sources of this FDI. Egypt attracted the highest share in Africa, with $46.58 billion. Other top recipients included Ethiopia ($3.98 billion), Côte d’Ivoire ($3.80 billion), Mozambique ($3.55 billion), Uganda ($3.30 billion), Democratic Republic of Congo ($3.11 billion), South Africa ($2.47 billion), Namibia ($2.06 billion), Senegal ($2.02 billion), Guinea ($1.83 billion), and Morocco ($1.64 billion).

''Most disappointingly, our

dear nation, Nigeria—the so-called “Giant of Africa”— received only $1.08 billion, about 1 per cent of Africa’s total FDI, representing a decline of about 42 per cent from 2023. Worse still, after this 42 per cent drop between 2023 and 2024.

''FDI to Nigeria has further declined by 75 per cent between Q4 2024 and Q1 2025. We cannot achieve sustainable growth and development with ineffective leadership and a weak government,'' he explained.

FG Pledges South-east Development, Completion of Ongoing Projects

Gideon Arinze in Enugu

The federal government has said that it remains committed to the development of the South-east region, particularly in the area of infrastructure.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made this known yesterday, during a tour of ongoing federal government projects and citizens’ engagement series in Enugu State.

In his address, the minister said that under the Bola Tinubu administration, no region will be left behind in terms of development that impacts positively on the lives of the people.

The minister noted that the President’s decision to remove fuel subsidy, albeit tough, was part of efforts to allow states and the federal government access to more money to fund critical developmental projects.

“You cannot come to the South-east and not come to Enugu,” he said. “The President has the entire South-east region at heart and that is why he visited to commission projects by the governor.”

Speaking further, he said “we have come to tell you that the President is working to ensure that Nigeria works again just as governor Mbah is working to get Enugu State back to its glory days.”

He maintained that beyond touring ongoing projects, he and his team were in Enugu to engage with the citizens on how various federal government projects were impacting on the lives of the citizens.

In his response, governor Mbah attributed the massive infrastructure projects across the state to the well-thoughtout policies of the Tinubu administration, which according to him, Nigeria needs to develop.

Ojulari Reaffirms NLNG’s Role in Driving Nigeria’s Energy Transition

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Bayo Ojulari, has reaffirmed Nigeria LNG Limited pivotal role in driving Nigeria’s energy transition, economic

stability, and industrial growth.

The NNPCL boss who stated this during a visit to the NLNG plant on Bonny Island, expressed support for NLNG’s growth and long-term sustainability agenda.

Ojulari was in the company of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Dr. Emeka Vitalis; NNPCL’s

Executive Vice President, Gas, Power and New Energy, Olalekan Ogunleye; NNPCL’s Company

Secretary and General Counsel, Adesua Dozie; NNPCL’s Chief Gas Power Investment Officer, Salihu Jamari, and other executives of the company, and the ministry.

The NLNG’s Managing Director and CEO, Philip Mshelbila, had

earlier during the visit briefed Ojulari on the company’s operations and business outlook. He described NNPCL as a dependable shareholder company, committed to the development of NLNG, to secure the gas value chain, and to overcome the challenges experienced by the company in recent times.

BA Denies 58 Passengers Boarding On Abuja-London Flight Over Faulty Door

Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

British Airways (BA) yesterday denied 58 passengers boarding on its Abuja-London flight due to a faulty door, citing safety reasons.

This is even as the Nigeria

Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) confirmed that the airline had to keep some seats unoccupied to ensure safety.

Director of Public Relations and Consumer Protection, NCAA, Michael Achimugu, stated that the airline provided

hotel accommodation for the affected passengers.

While 28 passengers opted to return home, 30 accepted the offer.

Achimugu added that affected passengers can file for compensation and

arrangements are being made to airlift them the following morning. He said, "Affected passengers can file for compensation. Arrangements are being made to airlift them tomorrow morning.

Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Sunday Ehigiator in Lagos

Funmi Ogundare

L-R: Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka; Nigerian Musician, Terry Alexandar Ejeh, known as Terry Apala, and Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Sustainable Development Goals, Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih- Awokoya, during a courtesy visit of Apala Afrobeat to the Commissioner’s office in Alausa Ikeja, Lagos... recently

Let the votes count...

Tribute to Ndubuisi

In Praise of President Buhari

Iheanacho Udutchay

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

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

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

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

memory, but in every heart he inspired during his lifetime. Whether as a relative, friend or acquaintance, he left behind traces of kindness, wisdom, and quiet courage wherever he went. As we gather on Saturday, 23rd August 2025, at Chief Henry Udutchay’s family compound in Obinagu village, Ndiowu town, Orumba North LGA of Anambra State, to lay him to rest, let us not speak only of the pain, but also of the promise. Let us honour him by nurturing the dreams he held dear, and by refusing to let his light fade into silence. Rest in power, Ndubuisi! You deserved more time, but your spirit lives on.

Pastors Who Flogged and Bathed children

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

n Friday 4th July 2025, a light was dimmed with a promising life stolen in the most cruel and senseless way. Mr. Ndubuisi Iheanacho Kanayo Udutchay, born 14th October1992, was not just a son of Obinagu village in Ndiowu town, Orumba North LGA in Anambra State,he was a beacon of hope for his immediate family, and many who has crossed his path. A young man whose ambition, determination and brilliance were matched only by his humility and kindheartedness. A law graduate from the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, he carried the dreams of many on his shoulders. He believed in social justice, in building a better society, and in using his voice, resources and intellect to bring fairness where it was lacking. Friends and family saw in him a rare combination of excellence and genuine compassion for humanity. His tragic passing at the hands of daredevil armed robbers at his residence in Independence Layout, Enugu, has left a void that cannot be filled. The grief that envelops his loved ones today speaks to how deeply he was loved and cherished by all who came in contact with him. The life journey of this promising young man may have been brief, but it was impactful. He stood for diligence, kindness, and vision. His legacy will live on, not just in

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chief Henry Udutchay (Father)

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

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

THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

EDITOR OBINNA CHIMA

Ainofenokhai Ojeifo, Abuja

DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU

MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI

EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN

THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE

DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU

Stop Ritual Attacks and Killings

The Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AfAW) urges the Nigerian public to stop ritual attacks and killings because the notion of ritual money and wealth is completely baseless. AfAW is making this call following the reported arrest of suspected ritualists in Oyo State in southern Nigeria. The local media reported that members of the Western Nigeria Security Network, Amotekun, arrested suspected ritualists with the body parts of a 73-year-old man.

he Advocacy for Alleged Witches urges the police and other state authorities in Rivers State to prosecute the pastor who abused children during an exorcism. This call has become necessary following the reluctance of the police to press charges against the reckless and irresponsible pastor and his accomplices. Some days ago, someone shared a video on social media showing over 20 children, between the ages of two and five, some of them naked, or barely clothed, in a compound supposedly going through an exorcism locally known as deliverance. Four adults, two men and two women, supervised and presided over this exercise. One of the men, apparently the pastor, was seen flogging the children with palm leaves, while others watched, or assisted him. According to the person who recorded the video, for three days, children were brought to this church compound in Eneka in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where they were bathed with ‘blood’, flogged, and maltreated.

On seeing the video, the Advocacy for Alleged Witches contacted the police public relations officer in Rivers state. She confirmed seeing the video and said the police were working to verify the video and the church. AfAW also shared the video with other advocates in Rivers State.

MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI

THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA

GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE

DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI

SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI

CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI

EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN MANAGING EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI

The suspects, who were apprehended in the Boluwaji area in Ibadan, said that a Muslim cleric asked them to procure some human body parts for rituals. Ritual attacks are widespread in Nigeria. Irrational conceptions of how to make money or become wealthy and successful undergird these atrocities. Many Nigerians strongly believe in blood money, known in some local languages as Ogun Owo (Yoruba) or Ogwu ego (Igbo). They think that they could become rich, or successful through ritual sacrifice. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Ritual wealth has no basis in reason, science, or reality. Home movies known as Africa magic or Nollywood films have not helped matters. These movies continue to reinforce these mistaken notions and other superstitions. Families, churches, mosques, and other public institutions do not encourage the interrogation of these traditional occult beliefs. There are no robust efforts to criticize or dispel these irrational and paranormal claims in schools, colleges, and universities. So millions of Nigerians grow up blindly believing that they could make money through ritual sacrifice of human body parts. The belief has led many Nigerians to commit crimes and perpetrate atrocities. Many Nigerians have been jailed or are undergoing court trials due to ritualrelated attacks and murder.

The following day, some media outlets reported that the police had arrested the pastor and some church members. AfAW contacted the police PRO, who confirmed the arrest but could not categorically say if the police would charge the suspects. Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged Witches

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE

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

DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH ASSOCIATE

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

Leo

ADVANCING CHARITABLE FUNDING FOR AFRICA...

collaboration in advancing charitable funding for Africa, held in Spain…recently

NAICOM Announces New Minimum Capital for Insurance, Reinsurance Firms

Minimum capital for life underwriting firms N10bn, non-life N15bn, composite firms N25bn, reinsurance companies N35bn

Ebere Nwoji

The National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), yesterday, announced a fresh recapitalisation exercise for insurance and reinsurance companies in Nigeria. Minimum capital for life underwriting firms now N10bn, non-life N15bn, composite firms N25bn, and reinsurance companies N35bn.

assented to by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently.

The initiative was a fallout of the enactment of the Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act (NIIRA) 2025, which was

NAICOM in a circular to insurance and reinsurance companies, titled: ‘Implementation of New Minimum Capital Requirement (MCR),’ dated August 12th, 2025,

which was signed by the Deputy Commissioner for Insurance Technical, Dr. Usman J. Jankara stated: “Following the enactment of the NIIRA 2025 and assent of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on the 31st of July 2025, the Commission

Adeleke Denies Misuse of Security Votes, Affirms Transparent Funding Policy

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has again reaffirmed his administration's commitment to sustain security services through the budgetary process, declaring “under my watch, we don't operate security votes in the sense Nigerians understand it.”

In a statement issued yesterday and signed by his Spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, the governor

said Osun has no slush fund which many Nigerians regard as ‘security votes’, noting that expenditure on security services are undertaken within the confines of the public finance law and regulations. He listed such security expenditures as operational support for security agencies operating in the state; funding of operations to quell communal crises; support for communal peace activities and funding of the state security outfit,

Amotekun, among others.

Such expenditures, the governor posited are processed within the context of statutory approval process which involves raising of memos and compliance with government payment process.

“I am proud to declare that the Osun State government under my watch does not operate a slush fund that our media friends call security votes. Our security needs are met through the approval

process. I face resistance over the policy but I stick to it even at great cost.

“My motivation for insisting on the policy was the situation I met on the ground in November 2022. I believe Osun needs every kobo to meet her numerous developmental challenges. Our earnings from FAAC allocations and internally generated revenues are channelled to key sectoral projects from infrastructure to agriculture to health among others.

Boost Security, Infrastructure to Power MSME, The Companion Tells Govt

The Companion, an association of Muslim men in business and the professions, has called on governments at all levels to provide infrastructure and improve security to attract investments and boost Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The association also called on Nigerians to embrace a positive

shift in mindset to tackle the socioeconomic challenges confronting the nation.

In a statement issued at the end of its two-day elective conference of 2025, the association called on all Nigerian youths to get engaged with current socio-economic developments playing out so fast with all the seriousness they can muster to emerge as successful and happy stakeholders.

The statement signed by its new Director of Public Affairs, Prof. Tunde Musibau Akanni, was made at the end of the association’s three-day National Elective Conference, in Ilorin, Kwara State recently.

The event was attended by members from across the country, and graced by distinguished traditional rulers including the Olupo of Ajase-Ipo, Oba Ismail

Yahaya Alebiosu, and the Aala of Ilala, Oba Abdulfatai Oladega Talabi.

Speaking on the conference theme, ‘Thriving Amidst Adversity: Strategies for Survival in Nigeria’s Challenging Economy’, the keynote speaker, Dr. Sulayman Ibrahim, urged Nigerians to shun corruption, adopt prudent lifestyles, and explore sustainable entrepreneurship.

hereby notifies all insurance and reinsurance companies of the commencement of the recapitalisation exercise as prescribed by the NIIRA 2025.”

The Commission in the circular said the new capital requirements to be introduced would be based on a risk-based model.

It further stated that based on the stipulations of the NIIRA 2025 on the introduction of higher MCR, it has pegged the new operating capital for insurance business operators at N10 billion as a minimum for Life Underwriting firms and N15 billion for non-life operators.

Additionally, the regulator pegged N25 billion for composite firms, that is those operating both life and non- business and N35 billion for reinsurance companies.

NAICOM emphasised that everything would be based on Risk-Based Capital (RBC) framework for both insurance and reinsurance companies in Nigeria. According to the regulator, in line with the provisions of the Act, the new MCR takes effect from the date of Presidential assent, and all operators are required to comply fully within a 12-month period from the effective date.

The Commission however stated that a 12-month period has been provided for insurers and reinsurers to comply with the new MCR as well as the applicable RBC as may be determined, adding that all insurers and reinsurers shall comply with the requirements on or before the 30th day of July 2026.

Flutterwave, Africa’s leading payments technology company, has released its halfyear 2025 review, showcasing strong performance marked by profitable progress, strategic growth, product innovations, payment partnerships, and global expansion.

Guided by a commitment to profitability and sustainability, the company spent its first half of 2025 laser-focused on executing a long-term plan that lays the foundation for growth that lasts.

(YoY), reflecting the impact of its strategic focus on core segments.

“Secured 20 new U.S. Money Transmitter Licenses, totalling 34 direct licenses without intermediaries.

“Expanded operations in Ghana, Senegal, Cameroon, and Zambia, strengthening regulatory standing. Completed the company’s first group-wide audit successfully, aligning financials with international standards.”

First AI-Integrated Luxury E-Commerce Platform for Launch September

Durojaiye Ikhazuagbe

A seismic shift is coming to the global fashion landscape, and it begins in Africa. This September, IyeOgé (pronounced ee-yehoh-geh), the continent’s first AI-integrated luxury fashion e-commerce platform, will officially launch, poised to redefine how the world engages with African design, craftsmanship, and culture.

exceptional designers and artisans with fashion-conscious audiences across the globe, especially the vast African Diaspora hungry for access, authenticity, and elevated retail experiences rooted in identity. IyeOgé, Africa's

Blending cutting-edge technology with the richness of African heritage, IyeOgé is more than a marketplace. It’s a meticulously curated platform that aims to connect Africa’s most

It showed that Flutterwave recorded a “2x monthly margin by June 2025 compared to our 2024 average, a direct result of our laser focus on cost discipline and efficiency.”

In the review period, Flutterwave also, “achieved approximately 20 per cent total payment volume (TPV) growth in enterprise payments year-on-year

Commenting on the halfyear review, Flutterwave Founder and CEO, Olugbenga “GB” Agboola stated: “We’re not chasing vanity metrics. We’re building a company that outlasts the hype, that scales with discipline, and that puts African innovation at the centre of the global economic map. Our half-year 2025 review was proof that we’re executing on a longterm plan.”

Festus Akanbi

L-R: Global Gift Gala Chairman, Maria Bravo; Kuwaiti Prince, Sheikh Mohammad Al-Sabah; Hollywood star Actor Global Gift Gala, Eva Longoria; President CINI Holdings, Habeeb Olalekan Okunola, and wife, Mrs. Arinola Okunola, during the 2025 Malaga, Spain Global Gift Gala fundraising dinner advocating for more global

BOOK PRESENTATION...

Drug Abuse Threatens Nigeria’s

Future Leaders, Agric Minister Warns

Okpebholo, NDLEA to flag off anti-drug marathon for secondary schools

Michael Olugbode in Abuja and Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, has raised the alarm that if nothing is done urgently by all stakeholders to tackle drug abuse, the country may be breeding criminals instead of the next generation of leaders.

This was as the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, in collaboration with the state Command of the NDLEA, has introduced a marathon for secondary schools in both public and private across the three senatorial districts of the state to help create awareness on the dangers of substance abuse.

Kyari, who raised the alarm in his response to the

remarks by the Chairman/ Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd) who led some members of his management team into a meeting with the minister and top officials of the ministry in Abuja on Thursday, assured the NDLEA of the readiness of his ministry to support ongoing drug control efforts,

He said his ministry has programme that will not only create alternatives for illicit drug producers but will make provision of agricultural opportunities for drug users undergoing rehabilitation to prevent them from relapsing.

Earlier, Marwa had told the minister that the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu has food security and national security as part of its focus, adding that “we really

Guinness Boss, Girish Sharma Leads Other Speakers at Marketing Edge Summit

Funmi Ogundare

Marketing Edge Magazine has announced Girish Sharma, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Guinness Nigeria Plc, as the Keynote Speaker of its 2025 Summit.

The Guinness boss will be joined by a strong line of industry intellectuals and ideas power- house in unravelling the theme of this year's National Marketing Stakeholders.

The upcoming yearly event with the theme: ‘Excellence Beyond Borders, is scheduled for Thursday 25 September, 2025, as a virtual event while the Edge Awards will be held

on September 26,2025 at the Balmoral Convention Centre, Sheraton, Ikeja, Lagos.

A statement explained that Sharma will be speaking on the theme, ‘AI Integration: Leveraging New Technologies to Achieve Business Objectives’.

Sharma, a high - flyer professional with impressive career growth trajectory assumed his new role as Guinness Nigeria boss in October 2024, and has spearheaded a bold transformation agenda that has stabilised business fundamentals, rejuvenated commercial execution, and reignited growth in one of Africa’s most dynamic consumer markets. Under his stewardship, Guinness Nigeria has not only recovered financial momentum but has also reasserted its place as a leading force in the Nigerian Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCGs) industry, a testament to his strategic clarity and operational discipline.

cannot tackle national security without adequate attention to drug control because they are interlinked.”

He said the visit was to seek collaboration between NDLEA and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security as part of

ongoing efforts to surmount the challenge of drug scourge facing the country.

The NDLEA boss noted that out of the 14.3 million drug users in Nigeria, 10.6 million of them abuse cannabis alone, making the psychoactive

substance the most commonly abused in the country.

“As you know, cannabis is not only smoked, it is also eaten. They make soup with it. They mix it with hot drinks to produce monkey tail. They take it in all kinds of forms. Every week, we make arrests. And still, they keep at it, because there's so much money in the business. And so, we sat down and reflected and felt that there's a more permanent solution to this, especially with the growers of cannabis.

Sokoto Empowers 14,000 Entrepreneurs with N2.5bn Grants

Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto

In a significant move to boost economic growth and self-reliance, the Sokoto State Government has launched the second phase of the Nigerian Community Actions for Resilience And Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) programme, empowering 14,000 entrepreneurs with N2.5 billion grants.

Governor Ahmed Aliyu

Sokoto, while flagging off the programme, emphasised that the initiative aligns with his administration's 9-Point SMART Agenda, aimed at promoting sustainable economic growth and self-reliance.

He noted that the programme has introduced a new nano category alongside micro and small enterprises, with increased grants for small enterprises from N300,000 to N500,000, and N100,000 for nano entrepreneurs.

The governor who urged beneficiaries to utilise the funds wisely to grow their businesses and contribute to job creation in Sokoto State, emphasised that every great business begins with small steps, and its success lies in careful management and wise use of resources.

The NG-CARES programme has already made significant strides in building capacity and expanding access to vital resources for entrepreneurs in

Sokoto State. The programme is supported by the World Bank, Bank of Industry, Federal and State CARES Units, Hotline Consult, and other stakeholders. In addition to the NG-CARES programme, the Sokoto State Government has implemented various empowerment initiatives, including training over 1.25 million youths and women in trades such as vulcanising, tailoring, soap and pomade making, knitting, and sewing.

NUJ, Kano Govt Unite to Chart New Course for Ethical Journalism

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in collaboration with the Kano State Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs hosted a landmark Media Interactive Dialogue at the NUJ Press Centre, Kano.

The event brought together veteran journalists, active media practitioners, journalism educators, union leaders, media

managers, news editors, senior civil servants, and other key stakeholders to strengthen ethical journalism and reshape media practice in Kano and beyond.

The engagement, which formed part of the activities for the two-day National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the NUJ, provided a rare platform for seasoned journalists to share their wealth of experience with the younger generation, while

also addressing contemporary challenges facing the profession.

In his address, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, reaffirmed the Kano State Government’s commitment to creating a journalist-friendly environment.

He commended the NUJ for organising its NEC meeting in Kano and assured continuous

support for the Union’s initiatives aimed at effective public information dissemination. Comrade Waiya also emphasised the government’s efforts in settling significant pension arrears of retired journalists, investing in media infrastructure, and enhancing human capital development, while also responding decisively to security challenges in the state.

Auchi Catholic Diocese Appeals to Tinubu, Okpebholo Over

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

Catholic Diocese of Auchi in Edo State has appealed to President Bola Tinubu, Governor Monday Okpebholo and security agencies to help release two seminarians of the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in IvhianokpodiAgenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area who were kidnapped on the night of

Two Abducted Seminarians

Thursday 10th of July 2025.

In a recent viral video, the two minor seminarians were seen holding what looked like a human skull and begging that funds should be raised for their release.

A press release by the Director of Communication of the Diocese, Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, said the diocese led by Bishop Gabriel Dunia has

been traumatised since the video surfaced and appealed for the release of the children.

The statement quoted Dunia as saying, “As the chief shepherd of the diocese, I feel personally hurt and disturbed that my seminarians, our children are living with armed strangers for 35 days now. I find it difficult to sleep these days because of this.

We have been praying since their kidnap and again I call on people everywhere to please pray with us.”

The statement said that three students were actually kidnapped on the day of the incident after killing the security personnel on duty but the third one was released a few days after because he was injured and went away with the two.

L-R: Host, Talking Books Africa Tarari Kalango; founder, Rainbow Book Club, Koko Kalango, and former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo , during the presentation of Talking Books Africa, to Obasanjo in Abeokuta…recently

TRAVELOGUE

23 KG and a Dream

The world felt like it was holding its breath. I stood in the cold fluorescent light at Manchester Airport, dragging a suitcase that weighed exactly 23 kilograms.

My heart was heavy with dreams I wasn’t sure I had the right to say out loud. Taking those first steps on British soil was strange and electric. My skin tingled with possibility but my mind was stretched tight between excitement and fear. Inside that suitcase were rolled-up sweaters and secondhand books. But more than that, it held the blueprint for a future I was determined to build. I hoped to become a woman who created her own happiness. I wanted to build something big that felt global but personal. Mostly, I wanted to prove to myself that joy was possible and waiting for me.

I was a Black woman, an immigrant, and a brand new Master’s student at Nottingham Trent University. I felt people watching me, quietly deciding where I fit or if I fit at all. I faced racism and sexism more times than I can count. I got sick and still kept going. When the world got heavy, I heard my parents’ voices across the ocean reminding me I was more than the limits others tried to put on me. Their love was my shield. Some nights I stayed up late, writing articles for the World Economic Forum. I wasn’t sure if anyone was reading, but I kept writing anyway. Diane von Furstenberg’s words stayed with me. She said, “I knew the woman I wanted to be.” I decided I would know her too.

Switzerland

Almost five years later, July 2025 unfolded like a prayer answered. That month was full circle, a clear proof of God’s existence and his plans unfolding in ways I could never have scripted. I received an email from the World Economic Forum inviting me to the Global Shapers Annual Summit in Switzerland. They covered everything from travel to accommodation to meals. It was a dream come true and a milestone in my journey. Switzerland was more than a place. It was a symbol of grace and second chances. It reminded me of Tina Turner’s story. Reinvention, courage, and finding love where the air is crisp and lakes are impossibly blue. When I landed in Geneva, the city felt like it was made just for moments like mine. The Alps stood tall and proud, shining under the sun. The lakes stretched out so far and so blue they seemed to be holding my dreams in their reflection. The air smelled fresh and full of hope.

World Economic Forum, Geneva, Switzerland Chief Host, “Jaiye Collective,” a quarterly converge in Birmingham for young Nigerians in Diaspora

The summit gathered over 500 hubs from all over the world, with thousands of young leaders committed to making change. We shared stories, debated ideas, and brainstormed solutions for climate change, technology ethics, and social justice.

As the curator for the Birmingham hub, I carried the pride of my city and community. My role was to connect voices, encourage collaboration, and carry our stories forward. It was a responsibility I took seriously but also a reminder of how far I’d come.

Even surrounded by brilliance, the quiet moments stayed with me the most. Early mornings watching sunlight pour through my window, wandering cobbled streets older than my dreams, evenings by Lake Geneva where swans drifted slowly and reminded me that patience and grace still matter.

Leeds and Doncaster Coming back to England, life found a new rhythm. The next chapters unfolded not just in cities, but in the people and moments that lived in them.

Leeds was where my not so little brother graduated. My parents flew in from Nigeria just to see

him walk across that stage. Standing there with them, I felt how much every achievement means when your people are there to witness it. Doncaster was slower, softer. I spent time with my aunt and cousins. We drank tea from mismatched mugs, laughed late into the night, and talked until the words ran out. My older brother, always ready for an adventure, pushed us toward the next story to live.

London

London was next, full of noise and life and family chaos. We wandered Borough Market, chasing the smell of fresh bread and spices. In Peckham, I tried plantain ice cream for the first time. It was weird and wonderful. Sometimes joy is right outside your comfort zone. There was laughter, heated debates, silly arguments, and hugs to make up for them all. London became the city where our family stories grew, messy and beautiful.

Jaiye Collective

If Switzerland was where my dreams flew high, Jaiye Collective is where my heart beats steady. It

started small, in my Birmingham living room, during days when depression and loneliness made the world feel heavy. I needed connection. I wanted a safe space where people could laugh and feel seen. Jaiye was that space. At first, just a handful of friends and a playlist of our favorite songs. But it grew. People came from all over the UK, Ireland, Sweden, Paris, Abuja, and the United States. Every event felt like magic. Music, laughter, conversations that turned strangers into family. The world can be cold and hard sometimes. Especially for immigrants like me. Politicians are tightening borders and stirring fear. There is more suspicion, more walls, and more questions about who belongs and who doesn’t. It can feel like a lonely fight just to be seen and heard.

But Jaiye is our act of warmth. Community here is a choice we make with every dance, hug, and moment of truth. When my parents watched me prepare for one of our events, seeing their pride was like reaching another peak.

Full Circle, and Still Walking

From Switzerland’s mountains to Leeds’ graduation halls, Doncaster’s kitchens, London’s streets, and back to Birmingham’s glowing rooms, this journey is about hope that refuses to die and the people who cheer you on no matter what. But even now, I have fears. I still feel lost sometimes. Loneliness still knocks on my door, uninvited but persistent. As I evolve, I’m outgrowing people and I’m losing friends. People who once knew me but don’t anymore. It’s a strange kind of sadness that no one talks about. I worry about the future, about not living up to the woman I said I’d be. I worry about how to hold my dreams and my fears at the same time without breaking. Most of all, I worry about losing myself in the middle of it all.

But alongside all that, there’s this fire. A fierce excitement for the doors waiting to open and the stories still waiting to be told. I pray I never lose sight of who I am - the messy, soft, complicated, beautiful me. The one who dreams big, laughs loud, falls hard, and keeps standing up.

When I first rolled that suitcase onto unfamiliar soil, every step was a leap of faith. Now, I live inside the story I’m still writing. It’s full of risk, love, and my parents’ unshakable belief in me. Their support is the sound beneath every win, their pride the light that touches every summit. Dreams planted in uncertain soil don’t just survive. They bloom into something breathtaking. And I’m still blooming.

Yomi Olusunle, MSc, British Psychological Society (BPS) accredited psychologist, Board member and writer.

Yomi Olusunle

•With family at younger brother’s graduation from Leeds Beckett University

Akpan Ekpo:

Back Then, a First Degree Was Your Ticket Out of Poverty

The life of Emeritus Professor of Economics, University of Uyo, and former Director General of West African Institute for Financial and Economic Management, Prof. Akpan Hogan Ekpo, reads like a blend of grit, curiosity, and purpose, shaped by a childhood in Lagos police barracks, early exposure to social inequalities, and a relentless quest for knowledge. From marching with sticks as “guns” alongside childhood friends to wondering why some classmates could afford lunch while others couldn’t, his formative years planted deep questions about class, justice, and the structure of society. Those questions trailed him through his education, first in public schools alongside children of ministers, later in the United States at Howard University, where his worldview was sharpened by radical ideas, African literature, and the life of struggles of African Americans. His journey took him from clerking at the Nigerian Ports Authority to earning two Ph.Ds, holding key policy roles, and sanitising the University of Uyo as vice chancellor. In this conversation, the respected economist and former Director General of the West African Institute for Financial and Economic Management reflects on his defining moments in public service, the principles that shaped his decisions, among others. Dike Onwuamaeze presents the excerpts:

Growing up as the son of a police officer in Lagos, whatare the fondest memories of your childhood? There are lot of them. But the one we used to enjoy most at the barracks as little kids was that we wanted to behave like our parents. So, we will organise ourselves and be marching like our parents on parade with sticks for guns. The other fun was that when I started primary school at St. Paul, Ebute Metta, we will stop to play soccer before getting to the school and we will arrive late at school. Apart from canning us, my teachers would tell my parents, and my mother would follow me to school and sit at the corridor to make sure that I do not go and play soccer again. Today, children go to nursery school. During our time, there was no nursery school, but what they called lesson. They will pack us in one area of the barracks to teach us A, B, C, D. My parents gave me a slate as my writing board, but I was not enjoying the lessons. So, I dropped the slate and it scattered on the floor and I was so happy that there would be no more lessons. But they bought me another slate made from a plank and when I dropped it on the

floor, it did not crack, which meant no escape from going to school.

How did your early life in Lagos and the barracks shape your worldview and academic curiosity?

I started primary school at St. Paul, Ebute Metta, in Lagos State. Later my father was transferred to a police barrack in Marine Beach, and I moved to a school called Anglican Isoko Primary School, Marine Beach. Some of us will trek to school, and others would be dropped with vehicles. I started wondering how come my dad does not have a car to drop me. Also, when it is time for launch, some kids will have money to buy food, and others could not. But what I want to stress is that the children of both the rich and the poor mixed together in schools. There was only one private school then in Lagos, which was Corona School, and all other schools were public faith-based. Then the ministers’ children went to public school in those days. That shaped my thinking about groups and classes. Why do some have and others do not have? Interestingly enough, when I wanted to go to secondary school, I could not make it to Kings College. By this time, we were living at 38 Kirikiri Road,

Apapa Ajegunle, and there was a school around there called United Christians Secondary School. My father checked the school and found out that it has white principal and European teachers. The school was owned by three missions, namely the Anglicans, Baptists and Methodists. Then I was very curious about social and political events. I was reading a newspaper and saw an advertisement that a “house boy is wanted and he must be an Ibibio.” So, I started being curious about how a society is shaped. Then, as we trekked to go to school, I would see that people were living in the European Quarters, which is now called GRA and I started thinking about classes in the society. This was shaping my thinking about society. Then, in my secondary school, there was an abstract titled “The Autobiography of Kwame Nkrumah” in a textbook we used for English Language comprehension. I read the abstract and it had a strong influence on me. But luckily for us the school system was not segmented. So, some kids living in the GRA were our classmates. I studied English and French with language laboratories. I saw that lab again in Howard University when I went to do my first degree and you must do a foreign language. The training in secondary school and

Akpan Ekpo: Hardship Shaped My Passion for Justice, Support for the Downtrodden

the lives some of us lived influenced me. My dad retired not rich and with dependents, that he told us that nobody will go further in education after secondary school because he could not sponsor our education beyond secondary school. Because of that, our training from our parents was stunted in a way. part of that hardship shaped my thinking about society and how I can contribute to make better for those who are downtrodden. While waiting for my results after finishing secondary school, I got a job with the Nigerian ports authority (Npa), as a clerk through one of my dad’s friends, Mr. Henshaw. at Npa I started taking interest in trade union activities. I also saw that those working overtime were still having difficulty living well. I refused doing overtime, because I was studying for my a’Levels on my own. I went to st. pauls, where the university of Ibadan was doing extra moral studies and paid to get evidence that I am in school, which would allow me to leave by 12 noon. this gave me the opportunity to visit the National Library to read every afternoon. My experience at Npa also shaped my life, and I decided that in life, if I make it, I will always try to make life better for the downtrodden. While I was in the Npa, the federal government advertised for scholarship for tertiary institutions. I applied and got the scholarship and intended to study in america. But my father refused insisting that I should attend the university of Lagos because people abroad suffer a lot. But a lecturer in unilag who came from our area, Mr. I. ukpong, an economist who studied in the united states, advised my father to allow me to go to america. so, I left for the united states.

What was it like leaving Nigeria as a young man in the 1970s to study in the United States of America?

I had no plan to go to the united states for studies. My plan was to study in Nigeria, but the circumstances that I have explained above led to my going to the united states. But when it came that I had to go to the united states, it was a little bit emotional. My mother gave me her scarf and said that I should bring it back when returning. after I had boarded the airline, my uncle came into the airline to bid me farewell and give me his last bit of advice: as you go to study in the united states, please do not marry a white woman. But if you find one that can give everyone in the village a job, you can marry her.” When I arrived in New york, my friend was waiting to receive me. as I was seated waiting, my mind told me that I will come back to Nigeria once I finished my studies. I enrolled in Howard university as an undergraduate. Historically, Howard university is a black american university and I learnt a lot from the university. It has a library with the largest collection of black authors’ books in the world. that is where I read about Nigeria. In fact, I became an african in Howard university. I read books written by Mbonu ejike. I spent time reading. Howard university radicalised my thinking. I saw the oppression of african americans and I equated it with what we were going through in Nigeria and that started raising my consciousness.

You were on the dean’s list throughout your studies. What motivated that excellence in you?

Hard work! I decide that to liberate Nigeria or africa, I must first liberate myself. so I dedicated myself to studying hard to acquire knowledge and earn a university degree to conquer poverty that I come from. In our days in Nigeria, a first degree meant that you have left poverty behind you. But the funny thing is that when I got the letter that I am on the dean’s list and went for the ceremony, unknown to me, the parents and relations of the african americans that were on the dean’s list came for the ceremony and took pictures with them and I was a loner. I called my cousin and others that I had informed about the ceremony and they told me that they were working. and that was the last time that I attended the ceremony. I was invited every year but I did not attend anymore. I worked hard as a student to fast track my going back to Nigeria. so, I took courses in neighbouring schools, which the university system in america allowed. But nobody advised me that those outside courses would not carry their full credits when transferred to my university. so, I missed first class grade by .03. I finished in three years instead of four. and because of my G.pa Howard university gave me scholarship. that is why I cannot forget Howard university.

What was the major culture shock you experienced while staying in the United States?

I did not have much culture shock in the sense that I read a lot of Kwame Nkrumah’s book that

Ekpo

detailed his experiences in america. But my shock in america was in the area of food. another shock that I had was seeing two men kissing properly.

HowdidyoumanagetopursuetwoPh.Ddegrees and what kept you going during those intense academic periods?

When I left Howard university I went to university of pittsburg to do my ph.d. I did not want to do everything in one school. In the north east america, economics was in the Faculty of arts and sciences and not in the school of business. But we can take courses in the Faculty of Business. at pittsburg university I was being sponsored by the university of Calabar’s staff development. unical came to recruit people in america and I went for that interview. I was the first to be hired without teaching one day in Calabar. the university of Calabar was paying my fees in pittsburg. But some of my courses in economics were in the business school and when I went to combine my credits the university said that they were different programs and that I must pay the fees for the Faculty of Business. My colleague told me about a distance learning university in California so I transferred all the credits in the courses I did in business to California Western. so I earned ph.d in economics from pittsburg and ph.d in Business administration from California Western.

You have worked with top financial institutions like WAIFEM, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Ministry of Finance, IMF and others. What moment stands out most defining in your public policy journey?

actually, I did not work with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as a staff. But, I was a visiting scholar at different times. I got linked to the IMF in two ways. In the late 1980s there was crisis in the Nigerian university system and lecturers were leaving in what was called the brain drain. I left for Zimbabwe in 1989. I worked for about three years in Zimbabwe where I was exposed to the IMF and the World Bank. there was a consortium called arC. I got involved with them because they were funding research with what is called in-built-salary to keep african economists in africa to influence policies rather than going abroad. But the most defining for me was my engagement with the Federal Ministry of Finance in the 1990s when I was the chairman of the Ministerial advisory Committee. It gave me exposure to the inner workings of the government. people do not know that I have been a member of every economic management team either directly or indirectly, except the present administration. the other one was when I was the vice chancellor in the university of uyo for five years. It was defining because in my own little way I was able to implement some of my principles that university is not for everybody and you do not have to fake credentials to get in. By the end of my tenure I sent away over 2,000 students who entered illegally or were involved in cultism. In fact they called me “sanitiser.” I sanitised the university of uyo in that

is important and I am not an atheist.

If you will go back in time and give young Akpan Hogan Ekpo an advice, what will it be? Hard work! Hard work! Hard work! always help your fellow human beings. Have faith and believe in God and whatever you want to be, be the best.

What does a typical day look like for you now that you have retired?

I no longer rush out of the bed as I used to do. In those days I will write until 5 a.m. and leave from my study to the airport. But that has stopped and if someone call me by 10 a.m. I will not pick up the call until 11a.m. because my phone is on silent. I still go to the office and co-teach a course with one of my former students who is now a professor. I mentor students and supervise postgraduate students. I am active with the Nigerian economist society, of which I was a former chairman. I do things in moderation now because my body cannot take certain things anymore.

period. I busted the syndicate of someone that was printing fake certificates of our university for over 13 years. It was a joy that I was able to return the university to what it should be. I rescreened every student because I had a situation where somebody had a first class but could not write good english. It was a defining moment.

Your wife is a Kenyan. How did you meet her?

We met in the university in the united states. It is 48 years of marriage now. she is an activist. apart from being a woman with beautiful character, her activism was important because when I was being chased around in Nigeria by the police and the state security service (sss) she understood what we were going through. I spent one year in the university of abuja but I was sacked and detained because of forming the academic staff union of university (asuu). Cultural shock is not there because you will be amazed that africa is almost the same. For example, I first saw a village in Kenya and not in Nigeria because I went to her village to marry her.

How do you stay grounded in your personal life in spite of your travels?

I do a lot of community work. at my spare time I look at what Nigerian government is doing and see how I can contribute to let them do the right thing. and I read a lot outside of economics. I also take part in church activities. presently, I am blessed with about 10 grandchildren.

What role has faith played in your life’s journey as an academic and in your personal life?

Faith played a major role in my early life as a teenager. I was part of the scripture union. My late dad was a very senior elder in Qua Iboe Church and I was very active in the church. But you will be disappointed that I went to the united states with the zeal of a born again Christian but I lost interest in the church for several reasons. I saw a clear racism. I remembered that I went to a church somewhere in Virginia and sat down and all the white people left me. I also went for the Holy Communion in another church and in those days you we have to line up. you take the bread and the wine and pass it on to the next person. But I did mine and nobody took the cup from me. I wrote to my father that this Christianity the white men brought to us that I am in their country and seeing racism and discrimination. He replied me quoting the scriptures. I then decided that I cannot say that there is no God but I will not be part of what they were practicing in the united states. so, I wanted to be a Marxist Christian, but non-denominational. I studied the life of Jesus Christ and saw that there was 90 per cent socialism in Jesus Christ. that was why I told my wife that I would not marry her in church in the united states because I do not believe that they were honest. When I came back to Nigeria we went to bless our marriage in the church in Lagos in order not to bring my father down because he was a senior member of the Qua Iboe Church. Faith

What is your advice to Nigeria’s current economic managers on how to leapfrog growth, address poverty, inequality and other economic challenges? the current economic managers should put Nigerians first. For me, in their first two years, they were not doing that. In economics, you can forecast what will happen going forward. By my own observation, only 10 per cent of Nigerians today are living a normal life. the political class, elites, CeOs, are living a normal life but the rest are not. In economics, there are policies that you put in place and if after a year, you are not getting some results, you re-examine them. economics, though an inexact science, is a science of alternatives and there are several ways of being a capitalist. But you do not encourage primitive accumulation of wealth at the expense of the people. What drives capitalist development is the middle class. Once they are not there, it is just a few at the top and the rest at the bottom. In every country, those who are rich are very few, but those who are living comfortably are many and determine who will govern them. But when they are no more or they are frustrated, you will have chaos. the policies the government has in place were either not properly thought out or are motivated by self-interest. there are people that do not take development serious because they are benefiting from underdevelopment. every country carries out reforms. For instance, the type of reforms Nigeria does all the time is called neoliberal reforms where one person will benefit and the other eight will suffer. president Bola tinubu came into power and said “subsidy is gone.” He did not need to say that on that day because from July subsidy would no longer in the budget. again, oil determines the structure of the Nigerian economy. you need to have consulted widely with experts to see how he could have removed it and still minimise the suffering of the people. We know that subsidy is a scam because we have been subsidising the wrong side of the curve. We were subsidising the supply side while the demand side was all a scam. the government should have removed it in phases because every country in the world has subsidy. even the food IMF’s staff eat in their canteen is heavily subsidised. the “subsidy is gone” approach cannot help the people. I can tell you that all the countries that have leapfrogged and grown fast and have developed did not implement liberal economic policies, which is the trickle-down effect that if a few grow it will trickle down to the rest. Growth is not development, though it is a necessary condition for development. so, the policy is anti-people. two-thirds of Nigerians are in multidimensional poverty. the middle class and intellectuals are now poor. then the next thing is the exchange rate. I am shocked that some of my colleagues no longer understand the competitive market model, which is a benchmark for comparing other models. It is an ideal situation but there are conditions for it. the foreign exchange in our context cannot be competitive. We cannot determine the value of the Naira by using the market. First, the Naira is not convertible. second, our economy is not productive. thirdly, we depend on sale of crude oil for foreign exchange. Look at the structure of the economy. the manufacturing sector is contributing less than three per cent of the Gdp since 1963. the data is there. there are conditions for the market to determine the value of the Naira. there must be existence, uniqueness and stability. you cannot find that in practice. It is theory. so, in our context you do a managed float.

Chukwuerika Achum: How Viewing Planes’ Takeoffs Daily Inspired My Career in Aviation Sector

From the shadow of Lagos’ bustling Murtala Muhammed Airport to the cockpit of Africa’s highstakes private aviation market, Chukwuerika Achum, the founder of Falcon Aero and its flagship brand, Vivajets, has built a pan-African charter operation in just over two years. But his path was anything but conventional. Denied his childhood dream of becoming a pilot by prohibitive training costs, Achum instead entered the sector as a flight dispatcher, parlaying early technical roles into commercial leadership positions that exposed him to the luxury jet market. In his conversation with Omolabake Fasogbon, he speaks about how he moved from managing executive travel for oil majors to securing one of Nigeria’s rare indigenous aircraft financing deals and how his ascent has been fueled not by deep pockets, but by what he calls his reputation bank, which is his years of delivering on promises and earning trust in an unforgiving business. Excerpts:

You’ve built a successful career path in Aviation. Can you tell us what defines your entrepreneurial inclination? Entrepreneurship for me is fundamentally about responsibility. Yes, there’s a glamorous side when success arrives, but that’s not what drives me. The real inspiration is knowing that people’s livelihoods, including my team and their families, depend on how well we succeed. That awareness pushes you to deliver every day. I’ve always had a natural pull toward startups and new ventures. Looking back through my career, I’ve been at the helm of fresh initiatives more often than not.

Does that mean you’ve always had a dream to build an airline as a child?

Not really, I had always wanted to be a pilot someday, but unfortunately, my family could not afford up to $100,000 needed to train as a pilot from scratch to a commercial pilot’s license. However, I’ve always loved to pursue a career in the aviation industry, so I chose a different entry point as a flight dispatcher, after I went to a flight dispatch training school. This offered me advanced knowledge, including ground skills as a pilot.

So, what stirred your interest in the aviation discipline?

As a child, we lived around Mafoluku, Lagos, which is close to MMA airport, the same as my elementary school within the Ajao

Estate environs, and under the take-off path of Lagos Airport. Every day, aircraft thundered overhead, and I couldn’t help but look up and this naturally sparked my interest. Besides, we had easy access to the airport to witness some of their operations. Today, the rest like they say is history. For many aviators, the path is inherited, either a parent bringing in family members or an association influencing a person’s entrance into the space. In my case, I was the first in my family to show any interest in the field. Tell us how you went from a flight dispatcher to controlling a pan- African charter airline?

Laughs... Well, I’m not there yet. After working as a flight dispatcher in Lagos, I was fortunate to be engaged as a ground

Chukwuerika Achum

Young Entrepreneurs Need to Build Trust Capital to Scale in Business

instructor by the International Aviation College, set up by Kwara Governor in Ilorin. From there, I was sent for training at Flight Safety International, Paris, which further broadened my horizon. I later joined the ground instruction cadre, affording me the opportunity to train pilots in disciplines like metrology, navigation, and so forth. My career took shape after I joined Toucan Aviation in Lagos, introducing me to the commercial aspect of the industry. Toucan had a private jet contract with the now Total Energies. Working here introduced me to high-level customer engagement in aviation, where I managed executive travel for major corporations. Note that as I move through jobs over time, I was also acquiring formal knowledge in relevant disciplines, which my on-the-job experience made me relate to and cope successfully. The turning point for me was when I joined Jet Support Services as Chief Technical Officer, eventually becoming Chief Operating Officer, growing the company into one of Nigeria’s largest business jet operators. I worked under a fantastic boss who gave me room to bring my ideas to life. After leaving in late 2022, I was ready to build something new, which was Falcon Aero, which birthed Vivajets.

Setting up a business is not child’s play. How did you navigate this stage?

In aviation, trust is the real currency. You can have all the financial capital in the world, but if your trust capital is low, you won’t go far. Over the years, I had built what I call a ‘reputation bank’ , which is a history of delivering on promises and protecting clients’ interests. That’s something you can only deposit into with time, not cash. Our very first project as Falcon Aero was managing an aircraft for Chief Michael Ade-Ojo of Elizade Group, which we still manage to date. This was a multi-milliondollar asset; there were far bigger companies that could have done that, but he trusted us. That trust gave us validation in the industry. We didn’t start with heavy equity investment; what we had was technical know-how, energy, and credibility, which automatically fast-tracked building Vivajets, one of the operating brands of Falcon Aero.

Can you take us through the trajectory of Vivajets that has now become a household name in a little over two years?

We started by leasing. As with underdogs generally, it was not easy getting that visibility in a saturated space. Certainly, we knocked on a lot of doors, and not every door opened. For every ’yes’, we probably heard ten ‘no’s.” Every ‘yes’ we get is a win for us, and a milestone too. In a niche market where we operate, excellence gets noticed, but one still has to be visible. As we rose through the ladder, we were able to secure ourAir Operating Certificate (AOC) from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) which grants us access to over 34 African countries. In May this year, we acquired our first aircraft- Challenger 604 , financed by Premium Trust Bank, to be on board, possibly by September. To us, it is a landmark deal because Nigerian banks rarely finance private jet operations as they understand scheduled airlines better. Ours was one of the first indigenous aircraft financing deals of its kind. Although we hold a commercial license, we are strictly for charter operations. We intend to consolidate our position in the charter space before considering scheduled services. Thankfully, we now have high-profile clients like Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote and even the presidency of Gabon, amongst others, whose aircraft we manage, in addition to the charter business.

In those years of humble beginnings and then, progression of Vivajets, what roles did your family play?

I have two wonderful boys, and my wife has been incredibly understanding about the demands of building a company. Time is the biggest sacrifice she makes. I spend most of the month in Lagos, while my family is based in the Middle East, where my wife works. I try to spend at least one week a month there, but the fast pace of this industry often changes plans. Sometimes, I fly there for just two days before heading back. You have always stressed excellence and customer satisfaction as your mantra. Can you talk about the personal values that guide your business decisions?

People are our greatest asset. I hold a pilot’s license, but I don’t fly our aircraft. We hire skilled pilots for that, my role is to ensure they have safe, well-maintained planes to operate. Above all, I believe in trust. I would take a less-skilled team that trusts each other over a highly skilled team with low trust any day. High-trust environments like the Navy SEALS achieve more because members can rely on one another completely. I also try to put myself in other people’s shoes. Sometimes, a team member’s actions have a backstory one needs to understand before reacting. That doesn’t mean tolerating dishonesty, but it does mean leading with empathy.

You’ve always taken on leadership roles, even as an employee, and now that you sit at the helm. Can you tell us what your experiences are as a leader and what lessons learnt?

The way we manage and lead has to evolve. The old methods of leadership, where bosses were seen as distant, powerful figures, are no longer effective. We were raised to respect authority without question, but this new generation of employees values a different kind of relationship. They’re inspired by leaders who are approachable and engaging, not just by titles or seniority. We can’t expect them to have the same mindset we had. They’re not as deferential, and they expect a healthier work-life balance. We must change our mindset and approach to get the best out of them. This means creating a positive environment where they can thrive.

One of the biggest challenges is recruitment and retention. It’s harder than ever to find skilled people, and when you do, it’s crucial to keep them, especially in a small organisation. Employee turnover is very costly because it leads to a loss of institutional memory and damages customer relationships. Customers want to deal with familiar faces, so continuity is key to our credibility.

I’ve had to learn this through experience. For me, this has meant adjusting my behaviour. For instance, I’ve learned that it’s not effective to send work requests late at night just because I have a sudden idea. It’s better to write it down and send it in the morning to respect my employees’ time. The world has changed, and to succeed, leaders must adapt to these new realities.

Do you have any mentors or books that guide you through leadership or life generally?

I’ve been privileged to work under exceptional leaders who shaped my philosophy. Mentors like

Mrs. Kofo Agoro, CEO of Jet Support Services; Captain Kenneth Hawkins, who was Rector, International Aviation College and Mr. Achuzie Ezenagu of Toucan Aviation, amongst others, and they have had a lasting impact on me. On books, I’ve been led by quite a number of them including ‘The Idiot’ written by Fyodor Dostoyevsky which was recommended by a late friend. The book’s theme of personal transformation resonates with me, and it’s reflected in our organization’s focus on continuous improvement. Further motivated by ’The Idiot’, we’ve been able to set up a transformation department to drive innovation and growth. For me, transformation is about staying ahead and adapting to change. It’s essential to continually question and improve processes, and I’m always looking for better ways to do things.

So, you grew up in Nigeria and studied abroad. How have these two worlds influenced your worldview?

They say travel is the greatest teacher. When you look at a passport full of stamps, you see a person who has been exposed to different cultures. This exposure teaches tolerance, experiencing how things are done in different parts of the world gives me the patience and understanding to respond thoughtfully in various situations. It shaped my perspective without erasing my roots. There are values that are intrinsic to who we are as Nigerians, including respect for elders which will never change for me. But living and learning across cultures has deepened my tolerance, and I think that’s the key takeaway from my experiences.

Can you share some of your highest and toughest moments in business?

The high point was signing our first management contract. We were being trusted with an aircraft when we were still “nobodies” officially. Our low moment turns out to be our answered prayers which is having to respond to customers’ last minutes request. We barely have that time to sit and rest, but that’s fine because as we are in the business of selling back time. For example, we don’t know what our aircraft will be doing in the next minute. But we are obsessed with delivering exceptional service, which we consistently go above and beyond to meet and exceed our customers’ expectations.

In all of these, how do you get to unwind during your little free time?

To be honest with you, time is a major luxury. These days, leisure is more about quick escapes,

notwithstanding, my weekends are more relaxed, even though I may also work from my home office in casual clothes. At times, I play golf, catch up with lifelong friends, or simply rest. Again, I enjoy travelling to Abeokuta to eat Amala and Ewedu in a local joint. Abeokuta Amala is quite amazing and you know, the city also has a nice golf course. But in this business, the phone can ring anytime with a client request.

So, if you had more time, what would you have done for yourself?

If I had more free time, I’d travel more for leisure, play more golf, and spend more time with my family.

As one who has travelled widely, which African city feels like a second home?

That is Kigali in Rwanda. It’s so clean, accommodating, efficient, and business-friendly. I mean you can register a company and open a bank account in 24 hours, often without even being physically present. Again, it’s visa on arrival and free for Africans, which is rare. Kigali is a true demonstration of African hospitality. I wish more African nations would follow its model.

As a major player in African charter market, what opportunities do you see in this niche space and how do you intend to maximise them?

Africa is challenged by infrastructure, part of which is air connectivity. For instance, a client in Banjul needing to meet the president in Kinshasa might spend a whole day connecting through Addis Ababa. With a business jet however, we can get them there in five hours, hold for their two-hour meeting, and return them the same day. Around 90% of our flights are essential business travel. We also serve the entertainment industry, artists like Burna Boy, Davido, and Wizkid need service like ours because their schedules don’t work with commercial airlines. We see opportunities in this gap, which we are out to bridge with our business jets.

So far, we’ve established a robust infrastructure capable of supporting 10 aircrafts, which has enabled us to demonstrate strong cash flows. This financial stability allows us to pursue debt financing options rather than seeking equity investments. Currently, we’re targeting $25 million in funding, having already secured $4 million with an additional $6 million in commitments. We’re confident that we’ll raise the remaining $15 million by year-end, which will help us achieve our goal of operating eight aircraft by the end of this year or early next year.

How would you assess Nigeria’s aviation industry generally?

The Africa’s aviation GDP contribution is around $75 billion. Compare that to $1.4 trillion in the United States which is geographically one-third the size of Africa or $230 billion in the Middle East, which is one-tenth Africa’s size. The gap is enormous.

We should be aiming for 30% annual growth to catch up, but that requires policy changes. The current Minister of Aviation has improved the business environment, especially by ratifying the Cape Town Convention into Nigerian law. This gives aircraft lessors confidence they can repossess assets if needed, which in turn makes them more willing to lease to Nigerian operators. We benefited directly from this when leasing our first Challenger 604. Besides, the regulatory getting environment is getting more flexible that will can now easily put a call or email the regulator, eliminating the physical bureaucratic process. All of these, including forex stability have ripple effects and ultimately, enabling business in the sector. At the same, there are room for improvements and opportunities for business in the sector.

One is maintenance. In the past, we had to fly aircraft to South Africa or Europe for major checks. Now, several capable Nigerian maintenance organizations have emerged. We recently completed a 7,800-landing inspection - biggest check on a Challenger 604- entirely in Nigeria. Ninety percent of the workforce was Nigerian, which keeps money and expertise in the local economy. So, there are a lot of opportunities in this area and I’m glad Nigerian companies are already exploring this area.

Achum

What To Do Before 2027

Seven years on from that merry-go-round of memes and manifestoes dotting Muhammadu Buhari’s beleaguered administration, the nation’s rant-machine has levelled up from vuvuzelas to foghorns. The tone is no longer just partisan jousting; it’s bread-and-beans economics, generator bills, school fees, and a daily baptism in exchange-rate holy water. People aren’t simply irritated; they’re exhausted - and when citizens are tired, their grammar shortens and their temper lengthens.

Consider the charge sheet - the notable, printable version. One, cost of living. Headline inflation has cooled from its scorching peak but still eats pay packets; even the official numbers concede a painful year, with prices soaring through 2024 before easing to about 22% by June 2025 - and food remains the neighbourhood bully. When garri and rice become luxury items, hashtags turn into “koboko”.

Two, power and tariffs. Band-A customers, roughly the “most-served”, got a 200-plus naira per kWh shock in April 2024 (later trimmed), and many Nigerians read the fine print as: “pay more, still self-generate.” Even if the policy logic is to stop bleeding subsidies and rescue a cash-strapped value chain, the optics in a lean season felt like premium tears.

Three, the naira’s rollercoaster. Businesses price like weather forecasters - “today’s rate, not tomorrow’s.” The FX market reform promised transparency; citizens met volatility. This week’s NAFEM close hovering around the mid-₦1,500s to the dollar sums up the distance between policy statements and market psychology.

Four, petrol as the national thermostat. After subsidy removal, pump prices leapt - first to the famous ₦617/litre in 2023, then episodically higher amid supply squeezes in 2024 - and every transporter, farmer and hair-braider sent the bill upstream to consumers. The state’s mitigation talk (CNG, targeted support) hasn’t yet matched the immediacy of the pain at the pump.

Tinubu

Five, security fatigue. The 2024 mass abductions jolted a public already on edge. Yes, some victims were eventually freed - and we must applaud every safe return - but each outrage compounds the belief that predators can roam and ransom at will.

Six, trust and perception. Survey after survey shows citizens increasingly unimpressed with governance outcomes and openly sceptical of flagship reforms (especially on subsidy). When the national mood sours, even good news tastes like unsweetened pap.

These grievances aren’t the feral name-calling of social media alone. They are the respectable, Sunday-best objections you will hear in churches, mosques, salons and staff rooms - “we can’t plan,” “tariffs outpaced service,” “policy sequencing punished the poor first,” “communication sounds triumphant while we’re counting coins.” Add the macro-context: a public debt pile now past ₦120 trillion, and you have a citizenry that suspects government arithmetic works only on paper and

podiums.

So, what should today’s operators dopractically, measurably - to cool the temperature before campaigns start hoovering oxygen again?

First, stop arguing with thermometers. Own the hardship, plainly. Monthly, not quarterly, briefings that tie numbers to kitchen realities: “this is where inflation sits, what we’ll do in 30/60/90 days; this is how much grain, fertiliser, or forex will hit which channels and when.” Show your work; publish dashboards; let citizens verify without needing a cousin in Customs.

Second, sequence relief with credibility. Cash transfers only work if the roll is clean and the money lands. Use independent audits on the social register and publish error rates alongside fixes. Tie any World Bank-backed support to transparent milestones Nigerians can track - not press releases.

Third, fix the electricity narrative while you fix supply. If Band-A pays more, Band-A must feel it, every day. Mandate weekly uptime reports feeder-by-feeder; penalise underdelivery automatically; accelerate metering so people stop paying “estimation tithe.” If tariffs must move, pair them with time-bound service guarantees and claw-backs when DisCos miss targets. The citizen should not need a senator to get a refund.

Fourth, steady the FX ship. Markets forgive tough news; they punish mixed signals. Publish a clear, rules-based intervention playbooktriggers, corridors, and limits - so importers can price three months out without ulcer medicine. Sweat the backlogs; celebrate only when clearance is independently verified. If the naira rallies, let it be because confidence returned, not because tweets said so.

Fifth, lower the cost of moving things and people. Fast-track CNG where it matters - city buses, ride-hailing fleets, freight corridors - and show the fare cuts route-by-route. Citizens believe what they can board. Pair that with targeted duty waivers for basic food imports

during planting shortfalls, with sunset clauses so we don’t kneecap local producers.

Sixth, treat school safety as infrastructure. Make secure-school standards (perimeter, rapid alert, local responder protocols) a national programme with public trackers - green, amber, red - by LGA. When an abduction happens, the dashboard should already show the preparedness score of that school and the remedial work funded last quarter. Courage is good; systems are better.

Seventh, reform by listening. Hold quarterly, televised town halls with awkward audiences - market women, junior doctors, inter-state drivers, etc. - and take unscripted questions. The point isn’t to win every argument; it’s to show the government can absorb heat without retaliating. Nigerians will forgive delays; they rarely forgive condescension. Finally, tidy the politics before the politics eats governance. Pre-empt 2027’s noise with a grown-up code of conduct: no agency resources for partisan hype; equal access rules for state media; and independent monitors whose weekly rap sheet is impossible to bury. If you keep governance boringly predictable, the rants will lose caffeine.

In 2018 we prayed to land, post 2023-elections, with “tattered wings still intact.” In 2025, many feel those wings are now stitched with IOUs. Yet the route to calmer skies is not mystical. Speak frankly; deliver tangibly; measure publicly. Nigerians are not allergic to reform - only to reforms that arrive like a whip and leave like a rumour. If leaders can reverse that choreography, the nation will find its laughter again - not as a coping mechanism, but as proof that the centre is finally holding.

No Charger, No Screen, No Shame: An International Flight Experience

ola Belgore quietly subjected to second-class treatment on international routes, while the rest of the world enjoys modern aviation. The reasons behind this are a mix of poor regulation, market manipulation, and good old-fashioned apathy.

You’ve booked an international flight. Maybe it’s with Royal Air Maroc, or one of the other “big names” that serve Nigeria. You’re hopeful. You’ve seen their ads — modern planes, world-class service, sleek cabins. And then... you board in Lagos or Abuja.

No screen. No USB port. The seat reclines halfway before it creaks like it’s filing for retirement. The air vents are stuck. The “meal” tastes like regret — and if you were hoping for a choice of meals, forget it. You’re lucky to get a foil-wrapped mystery, no questions asked. And somehow, you’re expected to be grateful — because, well, “at least the flight is on time.” I know, because I’ve been there.

Lagos to Qatar, via Casablanca: A Case study in disrespect

On a recent flight from Lagos to Qatar with Royal Air Maroc, the Lagos–Casablanca leg felt like a throwback to the early 2000s — but not in a nostalgic way. No seatback screens. No power outlets. Not even a proper in-flight announcement. The food was disappointing, with zero options given, and the crew seemed like they were just counting down the hours. But once we landed in Casablanca and I boarded the next leg to Doha? A different airline entirely — only it wasn’t. Newer aircraft. Clean cabin. Seatback entertainment. USB ports. Hot towels. It was still Royal Air Maroc, still the same trip — but the moment we left African airspace, the quality magically improved.

so what changed? only one thing: i left nigeria. Why is this still happening in 2025?

This isn’t just about comfort — it’s about standards. It’s about respect. And it’s about how the Nigerian flying public is

Let’s break it down.

nigeria: the Global dumping Ground for tired Aircraft

Airlines don’t just “accidentally” send older aircraft to Nigeria. It’s a choice. Many carriers deliberately assign their oldest, least-equipped planes to African routes — especially West Africa. Why? Because they can.

Planes that wouldn’t dare land in London, Paris, or Toronto because they’re too outdated somehow remain “perfectly safe” for Lagos. It’s the aviation version of saying, “This old jalopy still runs — let’s send it to Africa.”

The data from OAG, Statista and airline reports as of 2025 backs this up:

• Africa’s average aircraft age is now ~19 years — the oldest regional fleet globally.

• By contrast, Europe averages ~11.6 years, and North America ranges between 14–16 years, depending on the carrier.

•In West Africa, many planes are 21+ years old, making them more museum-worthy than airworthy in any modern market.

Weak oversight, Weaker Consequences

Unlike the FAA (USA) or EASA (Europe), Nigeria’s Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) doesn’t seem to enforce any real quality standards when it comes to what airlines should provide passengers. As long as the plane is technically “airworthy,” it can land in Nigeria. Amenities? Cabin age? Noise pollution? Accessibility? Not their concern.

This hands-off approach tells airlines one thing: do the bare minimum and nobody will stop you.

Bilateral Agreements With no Backbone

Most of these routes are governed by

bilateral air service agreements between Nigeria and other countries. Unfortunately, these deals often focus on landing rights and slot availability — and say little or nothing about the quality of service passengers should receive.

So airlines send whatever aircraft they want, however they want — and we clap when they show up.

Passengers Are expected to Just deal With it

Let’s be honest: many Nigerian passengers have grown to accept this poor treatment as normal. We tolerate old planes, indifferent service, and limited amenities because we’ve been conditioned to expect less. If the plane lands safely, we thank God, clap for the pilot and move on.

But here’s the reality: other countries — smaller, poorer, less populated — have better in-flight experiences because they demand it.

no strong Local Competition

Foreign airlines operate with impunity here because they face no serious competition from homegrown carriers.

Nigeria’s national carrier ambitions have been stuck in a perpetual loop of mismanagement, and local airlines rarely have the long-haul fleet or diplomatic clout to challenge the big players.

As of today, Air Peace is the only viable Nigerian airline with real international ambitions — and it deserves credit for that. But one airline alone can’t carry the burden of accountability for an entire market.

So when passengers don’t have a real choice, they’ll board whatever’s available — even if it’s a flying museum.

Let’s Be Clear: this isn’t Just About screens and Chargers

It’s easy to reduce this issue to “first world problems” — but that’s not what this is. This is about dignity. It’s about being treated equally, especially when you’re paying the same price

(or more) for international travel.

A Nigerian family flying to New York via Casablanca shouldn’t be stuck in a rustbucket for the first half of their journey, only to be upgraded to modernity the moment they leave African airspace.

We deserve better. And the fact that we haven’t demanded it loudly enough is part of the problem. What need to change. NCAA must raise the bar and set enforceable standards. Minimum aircraft age limits, mandatory in-flight service benchmarks, or penalties for sub-par aircraft operating international routes. If Europe can do it, Nigeria can too.

negotiate smarter Bilateral Agreements

Future air service agreements must include clauses on service quality — not just slots and frequencies.

empower Consumer Advocacy

Passengers need to speak up. File complaints. Share reviews. Use social media. Shaming works when diplomacy doesn’t.

invest in a Competitive national Carrier

We don’t just need a flag-waving “national airline.” We need a world-class carrier that can challenge foreign airlines and raise the standard across the board. Air Peace is a good start, but it needs support, investment, and scalability.

until then... Lower Your expectations at the Gate

Flying internationally from Nigeria shouldn’t feel like punishment. We shouldn’t have to endure inferior aircraft and outdated service just because we’re boarding from Lagos instead of London.

no charger. no screen. no shame.

It’s time to demand better — and it’s time to raise our expectations. Enough is enough.

ola@olabelgore.com

Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394

Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

#Chivido2025: Grand Finale of a Wedding Journey

Ferdinand ekechukwu

The internet is still buzzing over the newlyweds, Mr. and Mrs. David and Chioma Adeleke, following their lavish white wedding in Miami. A pre-wedding dinner hosted in honour of the couple, with close family members and friends graciously in attendance heralded the much awaited white wedding ceremony of the singer, Davido and his longtime lover and special one, Chioma, on August 10, 2025.

Davido, it was reckoned, didn’t just get married; he shut down Miami in billionaire-boy style. The Afrobeats hit-maker and his queen Chioma Rowland tied the knot in what’s now been described as one of the most expensive celebrity weddings we’ve seen — worth $3.7 million in cash. It was grand as expected, with prominent guests from across the globe in attendance.

The Havana venue, in Miami, United States of America, oozed opulence, elegance, magnificence. Pre-wedding festivities saw the couple dazzling in stylish ensembles, setting the tone for what would become one of the most talked-about weddings of the year in the entertainment world. With a roll call of high-profile guests, including political leaders, business moguls, and entertainment stars.

As one of the main highlights of the lavish celebration showcasing love at the star studded Miami spectacle flocked with distinguished society figures in attendance including billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote, Osun Governor Ademola Adeleke, ex-Senate President Bukola Saraki, Obi Cubana and his wife. Some of Davido’s colleagues were also captured in the videos that made the rounds.

Familiar faces such as Tunde Ednut, Zlatan Ibile, Poco Lee, Adekunle Gold, Teni, Uche Jumbo, and Joeboy. Alongside international superstars like Kirk Franklin, Shenseea, Rubi Rose amongst others, with Dbanj the Kokomaster serenading the couple and the colourful guests. Likewise Dbanj, Davido performed during the reception, thrilling guests and prompting Chioma to join him on the dance floor, showing their untiring zest for one another.

In the build-up to the celebrity event, videos surfaced of family members, including singer, cousin B-Red, at the pre-wedding party, seen

as one of the biggest celebrations in the music industry this year. The event tagged #Chivido2025 was the grand finale of their wedding journey, which began with a court ceremony in 2023 and the prequel, a traditional wedding, likened to a carnival, in June 2024.

The couple, who held their traditional wedding, last year in Lagos, celebrated their white wedding, with every moment captured dripping in taste and excitement. Exclusive videos from the ceremony show unforgettable highlights, from intricate décor to touching moments like Chioma and Davido wearing custom cufflinks engraved with the image of their late son, Ifeanyi.

Chioma’s beauty reflects glamour as she walked down the aisle to exchange vows with the Grammy-nominated singer. The couple was blessed by clergy after saying “I do”. Chioma looked regal in her wedding dress as she walked down the aisle. During her vows, she glowingly described Davido as her love, best friend, and the calm in her storm, promising to walk with him for life.

“You’re my love, you’re my best friend, (and) you’re my calm in my storm. Nobody knows or loves us like we do. I want you to know that today I am holding your hands, and I am going to walk with you forever,” David had in his own speech expressed deep affection for his bride, describing her as his “love, peace, and home.”

“Chioma, I have been on many stages, but this is the nervous I have ever been. You are my love, my peace, my home. You came into my life quietly and became the most loudest and beautiful part of it. You saw the real me the world doesn’t see and you still choose me.” The 32-year-old singer had in a viral clip revealed he spent $3.7 million on the elaborate occasion.

Davido also reportedly splashed Chioma with a Richard Mille wristwatch estimated $300,000 (N460 million) as wedding gift. The luxury timepiece was believed to have added an extra love sparkle to the star-studded celebration.

“In keeping with the theme of exclusivity and elegance, guests were instructed not to wear white or cream to avoid upstaging the bride,” a report noted.

The multiple Grammy-awards nominee had suspended his ongoing 5ive Alive Tour which the singer will continue in November at sold out venues, this year. Reflecting on their love story in a 2024 interview on The Bridge podcast, Davido credited meeting Chioma before fame

How Normad Music is Shaping Future of African Sound

According to the legendary Reggae icon, late Bob Marley in Trench Town Rock, “One good thing about music sound, when it hits you, you feel no pain.” · Where words fail, music sound speaks. In the vibrant and ever-expanding African music landscape, Normad Music stands as a model of excellence, innovation, and dedication to the craft.

Established as a 360° music and entertainment company, Normad Music blends artistry with strategy, creating sustainable careers and elevating African music to the global stage. Its mission is clear: to ensure artists are not just heard, but remembered for generations. It is gathered that from the recording booth to international stages, Normad Music has partnered with some of the most exciting names in contemporary music, including Zlatan, Bella Shmurda, Lyta, Inkboy, LONAIR, and Bhadboi OML, among many other talented stars.

These collaborations span hit singles, project development, tour support, and cross-border

partnerships, all executed with a deep respect for each artist’s individuality and audience connection. “We’re committed to building sustainable careers, not just viral moments,” says Ademola Alugo, President of Normad Music.

Adding that, “Our goal is to make African artists globally competitive while preserving the unique essence of their sound.”

Without a consistent structural backbone, it becomes harder for artists to build longevity — a challenge that has shaped the industry’s current state.

While singles often dominating the charts, the limited infrastructure for promoting and monetizing albums means fewer artists see them as a viable focus. Under the leadership of Ademola Alugo (President), Sani Ibrahim (Vice President), and Afeez Adepoju (Chief Operating Officer), Normad Music has become a trusted partner for both emerging talents and established hit-makers.

This leadership team merges deep industry expertise with a visionary outlook, placing the company at the forefront of music innovation, digital strategy, and brand growth.

and wealth as pivotal to his decision to settle down. Chioma’s friendship with Davido dates back several years.

Their romance, which began at Babcock University, has been one of the most talked-about, characterised by setbacks, series of scandals, drama and trolls. Chioma’s enduring relationship with Davido dates back as far as 2013. But their affair only became public in 2018 when the singer made it official at her 23rd birthday in October of that year.

Their romance won the chef several music video appearances and songs by the singer such as ‘Assurance’, ‘ Wonder Woman’, and ‘1 Milli’, dedicated to her, emphasising his willingness to pay any price to marry her. At some points in their relationship ‘Assurance’ was a buzzword among their fans and followers

talking about the pair. On several instances there were rumours of breakups popping up many times over the years on social media. Once asked about his love for Chioma, in comparison to the other women in his life, shortly before he proposed to her, ‘OBO’ said, “This one is special to me”. He didn’t fail to reassure her of her place in his life after the loss of their son in late 2022. Many had feared it was over between the musician and the chef following that devastating incident. But that was not to be. They picked up, bound with a legacy strengthened in love. Their relationship weathered challenges. In October 2023, they welcomed twins in the United States. Their white wedding which was planned to happen in 2020 was stalled by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Samuel Isong, an indigene of Akwa Ibom State, is emerging as a prominent voice for youth empowerment and economic growth within the region. Born in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, but with deep roots in Ikot Ntuen, Oruk Anam Local Government Area, Isong has channeled his passion and expertise into establishing Ride With Me, one of Nigeria’s forward-thinking logistics businesses. The company provides services for brands, projects, and talents across the country, supporting high profile events such as Odumodu Black’s Campus Tour, Jameson City Takeover, Hennessy Artistry, Ckay Campus Tour, and Victony’s Homecoming, among others. Driven by a deep connection to his home state, Isong recognises Akwa Ibom’s untapped potential, particularly its rich tapestry of tourist sites often described as one of Nigeria’s best-kept secrets.

However, during his frequent visits home, he has also observed a sense of marginalisation among the youth, who yearn for hope and tangible opportunities. This insight has fueled his mission to actively participate in the development of the State. Isong’s commitment is underpinned by a strong educational foundation, holding an HND in Computer Science, as well as qualifications in Business and Innovation and a Senior Management Program from Lagos Business School. This blend of technical knowledge and business acumen informs his strategic approach to fostering growth. His mission is clear: “To provide investment opportunities for the creative youths and the youths doing business in Akwa Ibom State.” This is further powered by his overarching vision: “Developing young people to take charge and shape their future.” What ultimately drives Isong is the ambition to build a global product originating from Africa, a testament to his belief in the continent’s potential and the ingenuity of its people.

Isong’s dynamic dedication to Akwa Ibom’s tourism landscape

was recently highlighted by his instrumental role in bringing superstar Davido’s team to include Akwa Ibom as a key stop on his historic stadium tour across Nigeria to celebrate the release of his recent album, 5ive. This tour will offer an unforgettable experience for fans in five select cities. Each city represents a unique cultural and regional hub, aligning perfectly with the album’s theme of unity and excellence.

Hence, this initiative will not only provide entertainment for fans but also inject vibrancy and economic activity into Akwa Ibom State. Isong also expresses admiration for the current Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Anieti Udofia, a fellow young and passionate individual committed to revitalising the state’s tourism sector. Through his ventures and unwavering advocacy, Isong is proving to be a catalyst for change, offering not just words of encouragement but concrete pathways for the youths to thrive and contribute to the state’s overall prosperity. His efforts are a beacon of hope for a generation eager to realise their potential within their home state and showcase the state’s hidden gems to the world.

Ferdinand ekechukwu

Ferdinand ekechukwu

Isong

From Politics to Terrorism: Canada’s Dangerous

Redefinition of Nigeria’s Democracy

When a Canadian federal court recently declared Nigeria’s two largest political parties, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as terrorist organisations under Canadian law, it wasn’t just an immigration decision. It was a political earthquake with consequences that could reverberate far beyond Canada’s borders.

This decision, made during an asylum case involving Nigerian politician Douglas Egharevba, was based solely on his past membership in these parties. No evidence was presented to show his personal involve- ment in violence or terrorism. Yet, under Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, affiliation alone with a designated terrorist group is enough to barTheentry.implications are deeply troubling. Legally, the ruling sets a precedent that political affiliation, no matter how commonplace or mainstream can be equated with terrorism. Diplomatically, it risks souring Canada-Nigeria relations by painting the country’s core democratic institutions with the same brush as extremistForgroups.Nigerians abroad, especially those who have ever held a party membership card, it signals heightened scrutiny, denied visas, and rejected asylum claims not only in Canada but potentially in other Western democracies that may follow suit.

Even more alarming is what this means for democ- racy. Labeling established political parties as terrorist organisations undermines their legitimacy at home and abroad. It blurs the vital line between dissent and danger, between governance and extremism. Once such a label is applied, it can be wielded, domestically or internationally as a tool to silence opposition, suppress political participation, and erode civil liberties. Terrorism is a grave charge. To weaponise it against political organisations that have governed a democracy for decades is to dilute the meaning of the term and

cheapen the fight against genuine extremists. It also blurs the essential boundary between political disagreement and criminal threat, a boundary that safeguards democratic life. Canada has long been a champion of democratic values abroad. This ruling contradicts that legacy. It must be revisited, challenged, and corrected, not just for Nigeria’s sake, but for the integrity of democratic politics everywhere. If this precedent stands, no political party, in any country, is safe from being redefined into illegitimacy by a foreign court.

One immediate consequence of the Canadian ruling is that law-abiding Nigerian youths, both at home and across the diaspora could be branded “terrorist” solely for past or present affiliation with the APC or PDP. I know for a fact that the immigration laws of the US and Canada allow inadmissibility based on membership in a group deemed terrorist, this creates a real risk of collateral stigma for young people whose involvement was purely civic. The prospect of visa denials, asylum rejections, or routine travel scrutiny will chill legitimate political participation among youths who are the lifeblood of party renewal. Far from strengthening democracy, such deter- rence erodes pluralism by pushing emerging voices out of mainstream politics.

The world should take note: when courts begin deciding which foreign political parties are “terrorists,” the erosion of democracy is no longer theoretical, it has begun.

This is not merely Canada’s internal immigration matter. It’s a global warning. If the definition of terrorism can be stretched to encompass mainstream political organizations in one of Africa’s largest democracies, then no political movement anywhere is safe from being redefined into illegitimacy.

Canada’s decision is not just about Douglas Egharevba, it’s about the dangerous precedent it sets. And if demo- cratic nations don’t push back on this kind of overreach, they may one day find their own politics on trial in a foreignNigeriancourt.politicians must also uphold the tenets of democracy by rejecting violence in all its forms and promoting peaceful political engagement. While we call on Canadian immigration authorities to review their sweeping designation of our major political parties, it is imperative that parties themselves go beyond rhetoric and ensure that every act of political violence is punished under the law. Paying lip service to these principles will only weaken our democracy and invite further interna- tional misjudgment.

Soneye is a seasoned media strategist and former Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPC Ltd, known for his sharp political insight, bold jour- nalism, and high-level stakeholder engagement across government, corporate, and international platforms

Develop DomesticTourism, Akwaaba Founder, Uko Charges African Countries

Charles Ajunwa

The Founder and organiser of Akwaaba African Travel Market, Ikechi Uko, has called on African countries to develop their respective domestic tourism.

According to him, with 1.4 billion people from 54 countries, Africa gets less than 100 million tourists annually.

Uko, a tourism development and travel expert, in a statement said, “If each country generates 10 per cent to 20 per cent of its population as domestic tourists and share about five per cent as tourists within Africa then we all will be

happy with a thriving tourism industry in Africa.

“Since the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown, Africa woke up to the opportunity offered by domestic tourism. Kenya, with its Tembea Kenya, was the first success story, South Africa with its Shot’Left and Nigeria with Naija7Wonders, Naija Explorers and and Nigerian Tourism Lovers proved that domestic is a sustainable path to follow.

“Most African Countries have since invested in developing domestic tourism. The African Tourism Conference at the 21st Akwaaba African Travel Market will be an opportunity for Africa to discuss what works and what doesn’t work. The efforts of most countries will be unpacked,

dissected and profiled. Lessons learned will be shared.”

The Akwaaba boss said some selected panelists will be on the 15th of September at the African tourism conference to be held in Lagos, organised by Akwaaba African Travel Market, to discuss and proffer solutions on the topic: ‘Domestic Tourism In Africa’.

The panelists include, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Riali Consult and immediate past President of Tour Operators Union of Ghana (TOUGHA), Mrs. Alisa Osei Asamoah, Senate Presidential Advisor on Tourism, Uganda, Mrs. Lilly Ajarova and CEO, Zee travel and Tours

(SMC-Private) Ltd, Zanzibar-Tanzania, Mrs. Ayman Thomas Malinda. Others are Chairman, Institute of Travel and Tourism of The Gambia, Dr. Adama Bah, Managing Director, GOTA Voyage (God’s Own Travel Agency), Benin, Dr. Olanma Ojukwu and CEO, Travel Lab Nigeria Limited, Mrs. Shalom Asuquo-Ankoh. While CEO, TheXperts Rwanda and representative of Congo, Wakanow Business Partner East and Central Africa, Fifi J. Rurangwa will moderate the event.

Onung Highlights Tourism Challenges, Opportunities

Former President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), Nkereweum Onung, has said despite progress made during his eight-year tenure, legislative bottlenecks have continued to hamper tourism development in Nigeria. Onung, who stated this at Villa Square, a special segment of Creative Nigeria — a weekly cultural tourism magazine programme on Mainland 98.3 FM, Lagos, described his tenure as being complex with diverse members’ interests, while he championed policies to reposition the tourism sector.

“Most times, people think tourism is on the residual list. It is not on the concurrent list, and we had an unfortunate court judgment in 2013. But I believe tourism is a national concern, and we must

Experts have decried abusive use of the digital space by youths and adolescents, and made a strong case for maximisation of opportunities digital technology offers to improve their lots in the society.

This call was made at the opening ceremony of the 4th Nigeria Conference on Adolescent and Youth Health Development held in Port Harcourt, that was organised by Society for Adolescent and Young People’s Health in Nigeria (SAYPHIN), recently.

According to a statement, the keynote Speaker, Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam, the Commissioner of Health, Kwara State, who spoke on the theme of the conference “The Evolving Adolescent and Youth in a Digital Age : Building Resilient Young People in a Changing World” said, “digital addiction can lead to decreased physical activity

work on better laws,” Onung said.

He said that government must begin to see tourism as a sustainable sector with vast economic potential.

“Oil will finish. But we must deliberately begin to fund tourism if we are serious about diversifying our economy,” he added.

The ex-FTAN president, who serves as the Senior Special Adviser on Tourism and Culture to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno, said FTAN has developed strategic frameworks to improve the tourism experience nationwide.

These include the adoption of technology and innovative solutions to elevate service delivery across the industry.

“When we reflect on this regime, you look

at some of the things we tried to push, like the standardisation and policy for the industry, which has been a challenge,” he said.

He added, “I got involved with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and ECOWAS, but all of these take a process before they become a reality.”

On FTAN’s recent decision to boycott the United Nations Tourism Africa Commission’s engagement, Onung said it was prompted by the federal government’s lack of meaningful consultation with the private sector. “Often, the government assumes the private sector will tag along. But the real issue is getting the government to meaningfully engage and include private sector voices in planning and implementation,” he said.

He called for more coordinated and inclusive approach to tourism development, reiterating the need for articulated policies and adequate funding to unlock private sector investment.

Onung also stressed the importance of metrics to track tourism’s contribution to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and national development.

“As a nation, we need to do better. We have a huge advantage with our population — the most populous Black nation in the world — but if we don’t leverage that for, growth, it won’t help us.

“We’ve tried to keep stakeholder engagement very active. We have also undertaken several standardisation efforts to raise the bar within the sector,” he said.

Experts Decry Abusive Use of Digital Technology

and poor mental health.”

While acknowledging that “enhanced communication using digital technology fosters social connectivity and opens doors for innovation, she said it has its downsides such as cyber bullying, fraud, misinformation, stress, anxiety, among others.”

To this end, she advocated that youths must build resilience through “digital literacy, responsible use of digital technology, mental strength and emotional intelligence.” She went further to define resilience as “the capacity of anybody to adapt positively to adversity and change”.

While welcoming participants to the event, the President of SAYPHIN, Professor Adesegun Fatusi, a

renowned Professor of Community Medicine, who described the conference as the biggest convening of stakeholders in the adolescent and young people’s health and development field in Nigeria, said this year’s conference “focuses on one of the greatest developments, dynamics and dilemmas in the annals of the world and development of young people - digital technology.”

He said, “Digital technology has so much potential for good and yet an open door to so many challenges.” Fatusi, however added that the conference is designed to see how participants can be “better positioned to harness the amazing opportunities that digital technology presents for

a better future for our young people and nation.. as well as equip them with new knowledge, skills and partnerships to address huge challenge that comes from compulsive and abusive use of digital technology by some young people.” To ensure that the interventions from the conference are pragmatic and implementable, the Chairperson, Local Organising Committee of the Conference, Prof. Omosivie Maduka said, “we are organising this conference with the adolescents and youths across Nigeria , not for them. This is to know the challenges they face and solve them collectively.”

Olufemi Soneye

Prime Minister of Canada, Mark Carney

Avoiding Potential Economic Disruption in Cocoa Value-chain

In this piece, James Emejo, writes that the federal government and stakeholders in the nation’s cocoa value-chain must make hay while the sun shines to avert an impending economic catastrophe in the industry and economy at large.

The next few months will no doubt shape the fate of the country’s cocoa industry which remains a critical component of the federal government’s diversification and job creation programmes.

At the heart of the uncertainty is the requirement for the industry to comply the EU Regulation on Deforestation-Free Products (EUDR), a landmark EU law adopted in May 2023, mandating those commodities—including cocoa—exported to the EU must not originate from land deforested after 31 December 2020.

The deadline was later extended to December 2025, to allow Nigerian cocoa farmers ample time to comply with the regulation which essentially bordered on sustainable cocoa trade under the EUDR Compliance framework.

The regulation further stated that such cocoa production sites must be fully traceable—requiring geo-location of production sites and comprehensive due diligence documentation.

The EU regulation applies to medium and large operators from 30 December 2024, while small businesses must comply by 30 June 2025. Non-compliance can attract fines up to four per cent of EU turnover among others.

Why EUDR Matters for Nigeria’s Cocoa Sector

Failure to comply risks not just trade disruption but also economic hardship for farmers and reduced foreign exchange earnings –including potential rejection of Nigerian cocoa exports to Europe, among other punitive measures.

This is particularly critical as the EU, accounts for over 60 per cent of Nigerian cocoa exports.

Racing Against Time

Only recently at the Nigeria-EU Cocoa Roundtable on EUDR Compliance in Abuja, the federal government and stakeholders in the cocoa value chain, converged to reassess the progress so far achieved in efforts to meet the EU’s compliance timeline with the EUDR on sustainability.

The assessment showed that though some progress had been made, it’s still a long walk for the country.

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Agribusiness and Productivity Enhancement, Dr. Kingsley Uzoma, highlighted the significance the commodity as being a cornerstone of the country’s economic diversification agenda.

In his overview, Uzoma said financing constraints remained a key challenge, with funding gaps limiting production growth, quality improvement, and compliance readiness, adding that cocoa represented a strategic non-oil export that fuels the country’s transition from petroleum dependency.

He stated that cash crop exports recorded a 606 per cent increase in the last quarter of 2024 as cocoa exports rose from about N171 in the last quarter of 2023 to N1.2 trillion, reflecting not only global demand but the resilience and potential of the country’s agricultural sector.

Uzoma said, “Cocoa is no longer just a commodity; it is a strategic lever in our economic transformation. This positions cocoa as a vital contributor, accounting for roughly 29 per cent of our total agricultural exports and 5.6 per cent of non-oil exports overall.”

He said the federal government remained committed to agricultural sustainability, value addition, and global trade standards, noting that the administration of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda was creating an enabling environment that catalyses public-private partnerships, empowering communities, and driving a greener, and more prosperous Nigeria.

He pointed out that at the heart of the discussion was the EUDR, which prohibits the import of cocoa and other commodities linked to deforestation after December 2020.

According to him, EUDR aligns with Nigeria’s green economy agenda, advancing its goals to combat climate change, preserve biodiversity, and build resilient agricultural systems.

Additionally, the regulation has the potential to trigger innovation in traceability technologies such as blockchain and satellite mapping, while enabling stronger farmer support programmes that promote sustainable practices and higher yields without encroaching on forests, he noted.

The senior presidential adviser also noted that Nigeria’s cocoa production currently supports over 300,000 smallholder farmers, who produce about 80 per cent of the country’s output and contribute about six per cent to the global supply.

He said, “In the 2023/2024 season, Africa produced 3.151 million metric tons of cocoa, with Nigeria accounting for 320,000 tonnes and aiming to increase production to 500,000 tons by 2025 through targeted interventions.

He said the figures not only underscored the scale of opportunity but also the urgency to explore and invest in cocoa production in the country.

“We must also confront the realities. While progress has been made, more needs to be done to fully establish effective compliance mechanisms.

“This underscores the importance of the extensive engagements held since December 2024 to align stakeholders and chart a clear path forward.

Cocoa farmer

“Financing constraints remain a key challenge, with funding gaps limiting production growth, quality improvement, and compliance readiness.

“The Nigerian Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), though well-intentioned, is under significant budgetary strain. It is therefore important to note the potential value of innovative financing options, such as a dedicated cocoa sector credit line with flexible repayment terms, to provide timely and adequate support.”

According to him, EUDR compliance presented transformative opportunities for Nigeria’s cocoa industry, adding that by “prioritising local processing, we can create jobs, retain more value within our borders, and shift from raw exports to high-value products such as chocolate, beverages, and cocoa butter.

“Revitalising aging plantations could deliver up to 50 per cent higher yields, reduce pressure on forests, and equip farmers with climate-smart practices.

“These advancements also position Nigeria to tap into climate finance and carbon credit schemes, potentially attracting significant international funding for eco-friendly initiatives, while engaging our youth in agribusiness as part of an inclusive growth strategy.”

He said, “To fully realise this vision, we are exploring options for effective partnerships to deploy digital compliance tools, farmer mapping systems, and traceability infrastructure that empower smallholders.

“We also welcome greater participation from private investors in the development of cocoa processing zones, where innovation and opportunity will combine to build sustainable, competitive supply chains.”

Uzoma said, “With our rich heritage in cocoa, producing an average of nearly 320,000 tons annually over the past decades, and a clear policy roadmap, we are poised to lead in sustainable agribusiness.

“Let us forge a new era of strategic partnership where Nigerian cocoa becomes a global symbol of sustainability, innovation, and shared prosperity.

“Together, we can build a deforestation-free future that uplifts farmers, protects forests, and strengthens trade ties across continents.”

Formidable challenge and transformative opportunity

However, in remarks and assurance to participants at the roundtable, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, described the development as both a “formidable challenge and a transformative opportunity” for the country, adding that the regulation remained a call to action at “pivotal moment for Nigeria’s cocoa industry”.

Oduwole noted that the roundtable was more than a high-level dialogue but a “platform to align national ambition with global standards, as well as a crucial step in ensuring the resilience, sustainability, and competitiveness of our cocoa value chain”.

She pointed out that the EU deforestation regulation was reshaping the way agricultural commodities are traded globally.

The minister said, “But beyond that, Nigeria and this administration is at the forefront of climate change and climate justice, and what is important to is the use of our land for sustainability.

“So, without even an external project, this is something that is Nigeria first. As Mr. President has put it, always Nigeria first in this issue. We’re thinking first and then joining the rest of the world to see how we’re using our resources for the betterment of everybody.

“So, for Nigeria, Africa’s fourth largest cocoa exporter, it’s both a formidable challenge and a transformative opportunity.

“With the EU accounting for over 60 per cent of our cocoa exports, compliance is not optional. It is an economic, environmental, and developmental imperative. And importantly, we have to support our domestic farmers and investors who are in this space.”

Compliance efforts on course

However, giving an update on the road to compliance, Chairman, National Taskforce on EUDR Compliance, Mr. Ajayi Olutobaba, disclosed that most exporters are already 60 per cent compliant to EUDR, adding that the challenge lies with legality/land use component which resides with state governments.

He said the regulation presented both a significant challenge and a unique opportunity for Nigeria’s cocoa and agricultural sector.

He said, “To remain competitive in the global market, we must act swiftly and decisively. Alignment across ministries, state governments, private sector actors, and international partners is not just important, it is essential.

“Sustainability is no longer optional, it is the future of trade. With unified action and a clear national framework, Nigeria can lead the way in sustainable cocoa production and secure its place in global supply chains.”

Stakeholder’s perspectives

Speaking to THISDAY at the meeting, Director General, National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Dr. Mathew Adepoju, said the best platform to address the EU regulation on deforestation was through space technology, using satellite imagery which the agency had archived from 1975 to date.

Adepoju said, “The EU regulation essentially says we must not sacrifice forest for farmland. Nigeria is one of the world’s top cocoa producers. Our job is to support farmers by proving—through space technology—that cocoa in Nigeria is grown on existing farmland, not newly cleared forest.”

Asked if meeting the EU deadline was still feasible given the time constraint, the NASRDA boss he said, “Yes, if commissioned today, this assignment can be completed within three to four months. We’ve done similar work before, such as deforestation mapping for Cross River State and Cameroon in 2013.”

Also, speaking on the development, the Oloni of Etioni in Osun State, Oba Dokun Thompson, said the real challenge was that much of the country’s data was captured during the colonial era.

He noted that the current push for geo-mapping and geospatial data was about updating and regularising current practices, admitting that many forest reserves have been encroached upon.

However, he said the government was focused on protecting the livelihood of farmers and ensuring food security.

Oba Thompson who is the Founder of International Coffee Diplomacy, said, “With the EUDR—focused on deforestation regulation for trade and economic development—state governments and different agencies must work together. We are one country with one government, but all parts must coordinate to achieve compliance.

“Geo-mapping allows us to separate protected areas, forest reserves, and areas now used for farming, so, we can legally reclassify them for cocoa, coffee, or other agricultural production.”

On his part, Sustainability Manager at Tulip Cocoa Processing Limited, Dr. Taiwo Osun, said the company had a sustainability programme before EUDR was introduced, adding that “we’ve been working to ensure compliance, knowing it requires collaboration with government, NGOs, and other industry players”.

He said, “The European Union Deforestation Regulation ensures products entering the EU are not sourced from forest reserves or protected areas. Every country has designated protected zones, but some farmers encroach to expand farmland.

“EUDR says any product from these areas cannot enter the EU. That’s why mapping and geo-referencing are essential—to show transparency and identify compliant farms. Ultimately, this is about responsible sourcing—protecting forests, mitigating climate change, and promoting sustainable agriculture.”

Carloha Pre-owned Vehicle Now Comes With 3-month Warranty, Others

Carloha, a leading name in Nigeria’s automobile industry, has unveil a game-changing customer protection policy for its pre-owned vehicle division. Every pre-owned vehicle purchased from Carloha now comes with a 7-day vehicle repair promise, a 3-month or 3,000 km warranty, and a 149-point inspection certification. This strategic initiative is encapsulated in a service bundle called Carloha Care for pre-owned, and it is offered to customers at no extra cost. It is aimed at elevating the standard of vehicle service delivery, fostering customer confidence, enhancing satisfaction, and ensuring long-term value.

The General Manager, Marketing at Carloha Nigeria, Felix Mahan, noted that Carloha is redefining the pre-owned vehicle buying experience in Nigeria.

According to him, “We know that buying a pre-owned vehicle often comes with a level of uncertainty. Our new policy is aimed at removing that uncertainty. With these assurances in place, our customers can focus on enjoying their vehicles instead of worrying about what might go wrong.”

The Carloha Care for pre-owned package signifies Carloha’s commitment to making quality used-vehicle ownership accessible and worry-free. With the 7-Day Repair Promise, customers are assured that any mechanical and electrical issues will be resolved within seven days, or Carloha will provide an alternative means of mobility for the customer, as long as the vehicle remains with the company.

The package will significantly reduce postpurchase anxiety and provide an added layer of protection rarely seen in the pre-owned market while reinforcing Carloha’s reputation as a customer-centric brand dedicated to timely and efficient service

Beyond the 7-day Repair Promise, buyers are further protected by a 3-month or 3,000 km warranty—whichever comes first—covering a range of potential faults in the vehicle’s key components. This warranty is a strong testament to the confidence Carloha places in its inspection process and the

mechanical integrity of its pre-owned inventory. It also serves to enhance long-term customer trust in the Carloha brand.

Each vehicle undergoes a meticulous 149-point inspection by trained and certified technicians prior to being listed for sale. This comprehensive inspection process ensures that every vehicle meets the company’s high standards of safety, performance, and reliability. From engine diagnostics and transmission checks to brake system tests and electrical assessments, Carloha ensures nothing is left to chance.

New ALBON President Seeks Better Operating Environment

The new President of the Association of Luxury Bus Owners of Nigeria (ALBON), Prince Samuel I. Ezeh has pledged that the new ALBON leaders would build on the existing cordial relationship with the federal government, especially the Ministry of Transportation, with a view to addressing the challenges in long distance road transportation in the country.

ALBON, which elected a new executive council during the week to run its affairs, is

a central body of long distance, inter-state transporters in Nigeria.

Ezeh, who was elected president, is the Managing Director of God Bless Ezenwata.

He identified a few of the challenges as the bad condition of some of the highways, high cost of procuring new buses and replacement parts, and insecurity (including kidnapping and armed robbery) on some routes, among others.

The new ExCo, he assured, would be engaging the relevant ministries and agencies of government towards addressing the problems

confronting members’ operations.

“For instance, if the government approves a concessionary exchange rate for the importation of fully built buses and components for local assembly of buses, and then makes the highways motorable, the impact on our businesses will be massive in terms of lower cost of procuring new buses and reduced maintenance expenses.”

The gains of such reduction in costs would invariably be passed on to the members of the travelling public, Ezeh assured.

He described the mandate to the new team as a call to serve, saying, “it is my resolve to make a commitment towards that service for a better ALBON and an improved transportation system in Nigeria.”

The President appealed to the association’s members to bring “ideas and cooperate with our soon-to-be-released directives on the new way of doing this business.”

Earlier in his account of stewardship in the past two years, the out-going National President, Mr. Nonso Ubajaka, had listed some of the challenges facing inter-state transportation, including insecurity and the effect of the harsh economic situation in the country which have combined to reduce the patronage of members’ transportation services.

Ubajaka, who is the Managing Director of Izu Chukwu Transport, however, informed the meeting that despite the challenges, his executive committee recorded remarkable achievements, one of which is fostering a good relationship with the Ministry of Transportation led by the minister; Sa’idu Ahmed Alkali.

The Volkswagen brand has reached a significant milestone in its transformation to electromobility with the 1.5 millionth vehicle worldwide from the all-electric ID. The anniversary vehicle, handed over to a customer at the Volkswagen plant in Emden, is a black ID.7 Tourer Pro, which raises the bar in its class with a range of up to 606 kilometers, the automaker said in a statement.

“1.5 million ID. models delivered – this clearly shows that Volkswagen is a pioneer in the field of electromobility,” said Martin Sander, Board member for Sales, Marketing and After Sales. Almost exactly five years ago, in September 2020, the first electric vehicles from Volkswagen’s all-electric ID. family were

delivered. Volkswagen now tops the registration statistics in the electric segment not only in Germany but also in Europe. “This confirms that our portfolio contains the vehicles our customers need. As a company, we are on the right path. Volkswagen remains a trailblazer in the ramp-up phase of electromobility,” Sander explained.

In the company of Kai Grünitz, member of the Board of Management responsible for Technical Development, and Minister President Olaf Lies, Sander handed over the key to the anniversary vehicle to a customer from Vechta in Lower Saxony. “The ID.7 embodies the strength of Lower Saxony and is proof of the state’s ability to transform,” underlined Lies, whose official car during his tenure as Lower Saxony’s Minister for Economic Affairs was an ID.7 built in Emden.

TIPS OF THE WEEK

Top 10 Causes of Flat Tyres and How to Minimise Them?

Common Causes of Flat Tyres

1. Sharp Objects

The most common cause of punctures is often a sharp object such as a nail or glass. Potholes, debris and uneven roads can damage tyres too, causing air leaks.

2. Damaged or Loose Valve

Damaged or leaking valve stems on both tubeless and tube-type tyres are another common reason why tyres lose air quickly.

3. Compromised Sidewall Sidewall punctures are notoriously hard to repair and often continue to leak air even after getting them fixed. If you have had a sidewall puncture in the past, it might be the cause behind frequent pressure loss or flat tyre situations you are experiencing.

4. Bead Leaks

Air leakage from where the tyre touches the rim is called a bead leak. If your tyre’s bead is compromised or the rim is deformed, the bead and rim will not sit flush with each other, leading to bead leaks.

5. Hitting the Curb

Some cars are often parked very close to the curb or an edged surface, especially in cities and streets where the parking space is limited. In such instances, the drivers end up hitting the curb more often than not. This can lead to air pressure loss in the tyre and can even damage the rim.

6. Overinflation

Tyres over pumped with air are prone to blowouts when driven at high speed or colliding with objects on the road, leading to a dangerous flat tyre situation.

7. Alloy Wheel Leaks

Sometimes replacing the stock wheels with aftermarket alloys can also cause the tyres to leak air if the new wheel is incompatible with your existing set of tyres. The problem is often faced by car owners with aluminum wheels.

8. Bad Driving Habits

Like any equipment, tyres too require careful use. Do not slam the accelerator and brake paddles as you go. Pick up speed and slow down in linear motions to avoid stressing the tyres and suspension systems. Otherwise the tyres may lose more air than what’s normal (about 1 Psi every month) and you will be running around with low air pressure or flatter tyres.

9. Old Tyres

If your tyres are past their due replacement date, they might lose air at a faster rate, causing more flat tyre situations in the mornings. Typically tyres are designed to run for 50,000 to 60,000 kilometers or 6 years, before needing replacement.

10. Vandalism

Sometimes the reason for a flat tyre may be beyond your control. Vandalism is when someone purposely damages something or destroys it. If your tyres are going flat without any of the reasons listed above, keep an eye out for wanton mischief by someone.

Tips for Preventing Flat Tyres:

Here are Some common measures you can take to avoid flat tyre mornings: Check your tyres regularly for wear, damage, too low or two-high pressure.

Maintain the recommended level of your tyre pressure and they will perform optimally. Try to avoid potholes or any other road hazards when you can.

Services such as wheel balancing or alignment help in even tyre wear and making your vehicle run smoothly. Get your tyre problems fixed promptly and don’t overlook punctures or wear and tear.

Go for quality tyres, instead buying cheap, generic ones.

What to Do in Sudden Flat Tyre Situations?

Sometimes we are driving at speed and one or more tyres blowout due to the road or weather conditions, or because the tyres you were driving were way past their usable life. In such situations, maintaining the control of the vehicle is key to your safety and the safety of your loved ones.

Source: Apollo Tyres

Carloha displays vehicles at their showroom in lagos

r-l: New AlBoN president, prince Samuel ezeh; 2nd Vice president, Chief Tochukwu Nwaibe; the Financial Secretary, Mr Chijioke ugwu; and public relations officer, Alhaji Mohammed Aliyu, taking their oath office… recently

BACKPAGE CONTINUATION

EFCC, ADC AND RELATED MATTERS

They have also been quick in coming, and from all various quarters. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Sokoto State has condemned the arrest. The party has also described it as politically motivated. For good measure, it has gone further to point accusing fingers at the APC-led federal government as using the EFCC to intimidate opposition figures.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has also called out the EFCC’s actions as a weaponization of anticorruption efforts. His position is that it is all a reprehensible ploy designed to silence political dissent, cripple organized and credible groups and paralyze Nigeria's fledgling democracy. Forthwith, he urged the public and civil society to condemn these politicized tactics.

Enter the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The fledgling party has also blasted the EFCC, accusing it of selectively targeting the perceived enemies of the sitting government, especially the high-profile opposition. By mentioning Tambuwal, David Mark, and Emeka Ihedioha as targets because of their very visible roles as possible shapers of a new political firmament in Nigeria, the ADC is making a point that deserves more than passing attention. Their view here is that the sudden enthusiastic investigation of these men, despite the cases being years old, suggests some sinister motives.

But here's the snag. The ADC seems to be ctually confirming that stories of lingering, but old, cases against the individuals under reference. This singular implication of the ADC's reaction does great damage to its pretended righteous indignation. It has also made the commission’s response easier to understand from the standpoint of criminal jurisprudence.

Distasteful as it may sound to those flying the kite of a one-sided anticorruption war against the opposition, the statement “there is no constraint of time and season in criminal investigations” is impossible to contradict. The Chairman’s declaration that has the right, and duty, to scrutinizes ruling party officials when justified cannot be contested in all good conscience.

The demand by former presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, that the anti-graft drive must be impartial and transparent is perfectly justified. So is his warning

elevated inflation rate, high interest rate, and the naira still adjusting to the effects of foreign exchange reforms.

Banking stocks, buoyed by stronger earnings and recapitalisation plans, have been one of the major drivers. The financial sector, traditionally the heartbeat of the Exchange, has attracted significant inflows, as investors bet on their resilience in the face of regulatory reforms and rising profitability. While few of the banks have scaled the ongoing recapitalisation hurdle, several of the financial institutions are in the second phase and are in the race to beat the March 2026 deadline. The exercise is expected not only to strengthen the balance sheets of the banks, but also to reinforce stock market activity.

Insurance stocks, aided by the Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act (NIIRA) 2025, recently signed into law by President Bola Tinubu, have also contributed to the strong rally on the stock market.

The NIIRA 2025 repealed and consolidated several outdated insurance laws into a single, modern legal framework. The new Act, a landmark legislation that strengthens Nigeria’s financial sector also provides for comprehensive regulation and supervision of all insurance and reinsurance businesses operating within Nigeria. Activities in the insurance sector are expected to

that targeting opposition alone is capable of eroding the credibility of the EFCC and the integrity of the fight against corruption. He did not, however, touch the matter of whether accusing the agency of revisiting long-dormant cases against some politicians is bad in itself, in fact and in point of law.

What perhaps rankles with many is the fact the allegations of tendentious investigation and prosecution against the EFCC are not new. Atiku's charge that Tinubu’s administration should not weaponize any state institutions as instrument for "intimidating, and decimating the opposition" can be understood against the background of this very same charge made against previous governments. But it still begs the question of whether anyone would be "harassed" who did not make himself 'harrassable'.

One statement of the current leadership of the EFCC at its inception was that it would not, under any circumstance, invite or summon, anyone unless it had garnered enough evidence with which a prima face case of possible culpability can be made against the person concerned. It emphasized the primacy of evidence over political motives. In all, it came out with the firm indication of a preference for institutional integrity and commitment to the highest national interests, by assuring Nigerians that no individual was immune to scrutiny where probity and accountability are concerned.

It is against the background of the foregoing that I refer to an article of 3rd February 2024, on this page titled "EFCC's Whole-of-Society Initiative. That was in response to the Commission's then newly designed programmes and activities under the theme, “Youth, Religion and the Fight Against Corruption”. It was, as said back then, "...an institutional attempt at a more holistic, more realistic and more sustainable approach to the fight against crime, criminality and corruption in Nigeria. Whereas the main thrust of the event was to address the challenges of youth involvement in cybercrime, the Commission used the occasion to launch its freshly produced “Interfaith Preaching and Teaching manual”.

The manual was developed by the agency's Interfaith Anti-corruption Advisory

be propelled further with yesterday’s announcement of a fresh recapitalisation exercise for the industry by the National Insurance Commission.

Clearly, the market has proven that equities thrive not only on ideal conditions but on the perception of future gains, stability, and credible reforms. The roots of this renewed investor confidence can be traced to a mix of policy consistency, macroeconomic recalibration, and corporate resilience. While Nigeria still faces significant challenges, particularly in security, infrastructure, and cost-of-living pressures, the government’s reforms in the monetary and fiscal space have reassured many that there is a commitment to stabilisation.

The Olayemi Cardoso-led Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has taken a more transparent approach to monetary policy, narrowing the gap between official and parallel exchange rates, while tightening measures to rein in inflation. These actions have not gone unnoticed by investors who, for years, viewed policy inconsistency as one of the greatest risks to Nigerian equities.

Foreign portfolio investors, long skeptical of the repatriation bottlenecks and currency instability, are beginning to test the waters again as in the first quarter of 2025, the country recorded a total capital importation of $5.642 billion.

Committee (IAAC) for preachers to deepen the positive values espoused by the various religions; such that there would be a deep partnership for attitudinal change and values reorientation across various levels of societal endeavor.

At the launch of the initiative last year, the EFCC Chairman lamented the involvement of a well known religious organization in a fraud case, up to the tune of seven billion Naira. He noted that religion, and especially several religious leaders, "have brought religious morality into disrepute", if we are to look at the preachments and conduct of some of them.

Add to the challenge posed today by heretical religiosity the lifestyle and media reports about elite corruption. What you find then is that the challenges facinf the anticorruption war are many. Values restoration, and reorientation can only happen when agencies of government, and institutions of state, adopt new and transparent approaches to public service delivery. It would take a a values-driven approach to the war against crime and criminality; in addition to the legal and other approaches, for us to have a new order. .

The philosophical foundations of this approach is easy to see. Crime and criminality always revolve around values and, as was pointed out in the aforementioned last year's article, "...the choices we make about what to do, or what not to do, in any situation are usually based on our core values. Take for instance, a man who decides to steal a billion Naira. It is not just the lack of money that would make him do that, no! It is his rejection of the value of honest warehousing of the common good and rejection of the virtues of responsible leadership, in favour of selfish accumulation of what he is not entitled to."

That article continued: "The presence of a car alone, as well as the desire for it, for instance, won’t make someone kill another in order to take the car from him. To do such a thing, you need (1) The presence of a car, (2) The desire for it, (3) The Disregard for the sacredness of human life, (4) The Rejection of the commandments of God, (5) The Rejection of the communal norm, which says that you cannot take what does not belong to

Local institutional investors, such as pension funds and asset managers, have also increased their equity exposure, driven by the need to hedge against inflation and take advantage of rising corporate earnings. Retail investors have also played their part in broadening participation.

The psychological shift in the market is perhaps the most important development of all. For years, Nigerian equities were viewed with a sense of caution. Now, that narrative is being rewritten. Investors are once again willing to take calculated risks, reassured by the sense that government and corporate actions are aligned towards stability and growth.

It would be misleading, however, to suggest that all is rosy. Risks remain, and they are not insignificant. The country still faces numerous macroeconomic challenges. Therefore, in order to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the current trend in the stock market, potential investors must remain cautious and take out time to understand what they are investing in.

Additionally, investors must understand that the stock market is not a casino and should not be looked at from a short-term view. This is because history has shown that investors who go into the stock market without understanding what it is all about get their fingers burnt.

Most importantly, stock market investors

you without the consent of the owner, etc."

Let me point out, before I conclude, that part of the intendments of the earlierreferenced programme organized by the EFCC was to deliberately “involve multiple stakeholders in the fight against economic and financial crimes and put forward new paradigms through a Whole-of-Society approach to social engineering. And this attempt to widen the values network, and networth, is obviously designed to build synergy around the foundational principles of social stability.

Once the wrong values are promoted and condoned, the wrong actions will become the norm. And the immediate casualties and inheritors of what is thus distorted would be the youth. What they then end up propagating with great vim, vigour and rigour, through their actions and their choices, would be the values of decay, social ruination and death."

If the Custodians of Value target the right ideals, and work towards the same goals, the society enjoys lasting, and holistic development and value stability. If parents play the role of parents and make the home a nurturing platform, and the schools, teachers, leaders and Institutions of State all play their respective roles in the right way, they would so reinforce each other that misconduct will become very unattractive; and easily isolated and penalized."

Going back to the matter of the current controversy surrounding the interrogation of some politicians, the take here is that we cannot reasonably take a firm and final position on an unfolding event. Accusations of selective engagement must be taken seriously, but we must also be sure that the accusations are real, speculative or acts of deliberate mischief.

To the extent that the complaint is speculative, and largely not saying outrightly that the persons under investigation should not have been invited in the first place, to that extent is one constrained to say that loud claims about the prosecution, or non prosecution, of other possibly corrupt individuals is neither here nor there. A day will come for each one, so, let each person, politician, or political party attend to his/its garment; rather than point to another with presumably dirty linen.

must understand the behaviour of different stocks and sub-sectors on the NGX so that stockbrokers who are always out to get their commission do not mislead them into buying ‘dead’ stocks, as there are specific seasons and dispensation of different stocks and sub-sectors.

To this end, Michael Sheimo, in his book, “Stock Market Rules,” warns that, “People should at least spend as much time selecting a stock as they do when buying a new refrigerator.”

“The research is extremely important, so that the investor doesn’t just buy the glitzy presentation of a particular business. Select stocks with good-looking fundamentals, reasonable prices and a fast-looking future. Buy the stock and watch the new developments,” he adds. Likewise, in his book, ‘Market Panic –Wild Gyrations, Risks and Opportunities in Stock Markets’, Stephen Vines stresses the importance of investors being disciplined while in the market, saying “they should set targets for the profits they wish to achieve and set targets for the toleration of loss.”

“Discipline in setting targets and keeping them is especially important in fast-rising markets because they float on a wave of exaggerated expectations, leading investors to delay selling in the hope of securing dazzling gains,” he adds.

The Business of Better Health

Chidi Okpala

Ahealthy continent is a prosperous one. When people are well, they work more, earn more, and invest more in their communities. Conversely, when illness spreads unchecked or medical costs plunge families into debt, entire economies suffer. Despite this clear link, healthcare in Africa has long been underfunded, deprioritised, and underserved.

The cost of this oversight is that in sub-Saharan Africa alone, poor health and premature mortality result in productivity losses exceeding $2.6 trillion annually by World Bank estimates. Across the continent, maternal mortality remains high, child survival rates are low, and rural communities continue to face dire access challenges to essential health services.

Falling Momentum in Health Investments

More concerningly, healthcare funding momentum has regressed in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented spending, but as the world pivots toward economic recovery and inflation control, many governments are scaling back health investments. In Africa, this shift is particularly worrisome. Countries such as Nigeria consistently allocate less than five percent of their national budgets to health—far below the 15 percent target outlined in the Abuja Declaration. Mali, Botswana, and Cameroon reflect similar patterns, with Cameroon allocating only 3.7 percent in recent years—the lowest in over two decades.

External donor support, which was once a key pillar for many countries’ health programme, has also declined. Global aid is now being redirected to other urgent crises, and donor fatigue is setting in. A recent example is the restructuring of USAID—an agency that typically spends $40 billion a year on humanitarian aid—which has led to the shutdown of 83 percent of its programmes worldwide.

The Burden of Out-of-Pocket Payments

The result is a growing reliance on out-of-pocket payments, leaving vulnerable populations exposed and public systems under strain. These are grim realities. Africa’s growing population and weak health systems paint the picture of clear moral responsibility, but they also reveal major business opportunities that can scale.

Innovation and Resilience Across the Continent

Beneath the sobering reality, there’s a hopeful side. Africa is also the site of remarkable health innovation and resilience. There are quiet and interesting revolutions happening, through policy, technology, private investment, and local innovation.

Consider Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country. With over 200 million citizens and a doctor-patient ratio of 1:5,000; far below the recommended 1:600; the need for scalable health interventions is urgent and new models are emerging in form: Drone Delivery of Medical Supplies, Telemedicine in Remote Areas, Digital Health Platforms & EHR Systems, AI & IoT for Diagnosis and Monitoring, and Local Manufacturing of Vaccines and Drugs. Companies like Helium Health are partnering with hospitals to digitise their operations and to facilitate financing for healthcare through various credit products, while others such as LifeBank are solving critical issues in blood and oxygen supply through innovative logistics.

Private Sector: A Vital Partner Private sector engagement is proving vital.

A WHO study found that every $1 invested in basic healthcare in low- and middle-income countries yields up to $9 in economic returns. For a continent with the youngest workforce in the world, over 60% under the age of 25, this return on investment should not be ignored.

While much of the direct investment in Africa remains concentrated in extracting natural resources, a growing recognition of the continent’s broader developmental needs is beginning to reshape investment priorities. One of Africa’s leading investment companies,

Heirs Holdings, has taken a forward-looking stance by identifying healthcare as one of seven critical sectors essential to securing the continent’s long-term socioeconomic advancement.

Heirs Holdings’ Avon Model Through two of its subsidiaries, Avon Medical Practice and Avon HMO, Heirs Holdings has steadily built a healthcare model that prioritises both quality and access. Avon Medical Practice’s impact is already measurable: over 164,000 patients treated, 13,000 dialysis procedures performed, more than 20,000 immunisations administered, and 2,000 childbirths all within the last decade. At an intersect, Avon HMO addresses a different core challenge— affordability and access, paying out over $30 million in health claims over the last twelve

years.

Scaling Community-Based Solutions

Africa’s healthcare evolution is however not occurring in a vacuum. Breakthrough innovations are emerging from across the continent, reshaping how healthcare is delivered. In Mali, a bold community-based approach to health services reduced child mortality by over 90 percent in the Yirimadio district, proving that the right models, when scaled, can transform outcomes at the grassroots.

The Need for Reform

Still, challenges remain. Africa accounts for 24 percent of the global disease burden but only three percent of the world’s health workforce and less than one percent of its health expenditures. Brain-drain siphons off top medical talent. Out-of-pocket expenses still make up 37 percent of total health spending in sub-Saharan Africa, pushing families into poverty and deterring care. In Nigeria alone, nearly 77 percent of healthcare costs are paid directly by patients. Without radical reform and increased investment, particularly in primary healthcare infrastructure, progress may stall.

The Shared Business of Health

We must shift from reactive to preventive care, from bureaucracy to technology-driven solutions, and from donor-dependence to inclusive, locally-owned systems. Strengthening primary healthcare infrastructure, investing in health workers, and localising pharmaceutical production are essential next steps. Most importantly, healthcare must no longer be seen as a cost—but as a foundational investment.

The business of better health is everyone’s business. For investors, it presents growth. For governments, it is policy transformation. For families, it means dignity and survival. And for Africa, it is the gateway to shared prosperity and lasting development.

—Okpala, oversees Heirs Holding’s technology, healthcare business sectors and drives the group’s synergy

A Tale of Two Reforms and Politicians Betting on Collapse

O’tega ‘The Tiger’ Ogra

Economic reform is never painless. Every nation that has fixed deep distortions faced the same choice: take the hard medicine early, or delay and pay much more later. Some politicians today are selling the “gentle” path. Peter Obi says keep subsidies for a while, Atiku Abubakar says guide the currency quietly, Rotimi Amaechi and Nasir El-Rufai say push the hard work into another year. It sounds safe. But history is clear and that road ends in disaster.

Bulgaria tried it in 1990. They freed some prices but kept subsidies, exactly as Peter Obi proposes. They held a soft currency peg without the reserves to defend it, just as Atiku suggests for the naira. They delayed

tough reforms like Amaechi and El-Rufai advise. Six years later, inflation had exploded past 2,000 percent, the currency was worthless, shops were empty, pensions were destroyed, and the politicians who promised a soft

landing had vanished.

Nigeria today is on a different road. From his first day in office, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu removed the petrol subsidy draining over four trillion naira a year, let the naira find its real

value, restored fiscal discipline, and cleared over seven billion dollars in FX backlogs. Those decisions brought Nigeria off IATA’s blacklist, attracted $5.6 billion in inflows in late 2024, more than the previous two years combined, and grew non-oil tax revenue by more than twenty percent.

These are real wins, already happening. Yet this is the moment when the Association of Displaced Politicians will tell us to stop. They will push Bulgaria 1990 in a new wrapper. They will push it as an “acceptable” naira rate, a “phased” subsidy removal, slowing reforms to “protect the people.” In reality, it is comfort now and collapse later.

We have seen this film before. Nigeria must hold the line. Keep subsidy savings transparent and tied to visible

projects. Keep the currency market-driven. Keep monetary policy tight until inflation falls within a credible band. This is how we earn lasting investor trust and create an economy that is resilient, competitive, and not hostage to oil prices alone.

The choice is simple. Pain now with a recovery we can see, or comfort now with a collapse we cannot control. Bulgaria 1990 is the warning. Nigeria 2023 is the opportunity.

We are already making in months the progress that took years for others. If we have the discipline to finish this, we will not just avoid Bulgaria’s trap but we will write the modern African recovery story the world will study. This is the best time to bet on Nigeria.

—Ogra is the senior special assistant to President Bola Tinubu on digital engagement, strategy, and new media

Pharmacists Demand Immediate Action On Prescription Policing Policy

Pharmacists under the aegis of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) have warned the Federal Government against further delay in adopting the National Prescription Policing (NPP) Policy for implementation.

ACPN stated that immediate action in implementing the policy, which had suffered abandonment over ten years ago, due to unresolved conflicts amongst members of the committee, will be a turning point in the regulation of medicines prescription in the country.

National Chairman of ACPN, Eze Ambrose Igwekanma, who commended the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (FMOH)

for the renewed action on the NPP initiative, said an immediate launch of the NPP to pave way for its full implementation, “will be a watershed in the annals of healthcare and a big plus for the Health Sector under the watch of the Tinubu Administration.’’

Citing bureaucracy and unnecessary intrigues as responsible for the setback in processing and adoption of the policy, ACPN advised the federal government to be wary of some of the challenges that stalled work on the NPP.

“We find it necessary to put on record that this current effort is not devoid of its own fair share of challenges which we have managed to work through,” he added.

The pharmacists blamed the lukewarm attitude of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in taking expected action to actualize the objective of the project.

The seeming non-committal posturing of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) at crucial junctures of the assignment was a huge disservice.

‘’It was most awkward in operational planning for an agency that registers drug products in Nigeria to maintain a lukewarm position on the appropriate categorisation of drugs in an evolving Prescription Policy for the country.’’

ACPN did not spare the Foods and Drugs

department of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare for the slow process that affected the NPP policy.

The association alleged in the document that the FMOH, “through its policy unit almost bungled the NPP initiative like it did with the discredited and rejected Drug Revolving Fund (DRF) Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Federal Health Institutions (FHIs).

“On at least three occasions the Food and Drugs department was mandated to provide technical information to guide the committee on key subject matters, which it failed to deliver in all the referred junctures.’’

Okpala

Tinubu

GLOBAL SOCCER GLOBAL SOCCER

Kelec HI I H e ANAc H o

c areer in l imbo

With Sevilla Coach, Matias Almeyda, having declared him surplus to requirement, and with no offers coming from top European clubs, aside from English second tier sides, a Mexico club and, most recently, Turkish side, Besiktas, and with major leagues kicking off this weekend, the next destination of Nigeria international, Kelechi Iheanacho is still in Limbo. And with AFCON just few months away and considering the former Leicester City attacker’s predicament, it would take a miracle for the U17 World Cup winner to be part of the three-time African champions’party to Morocco, considering the avalanche of Nigerian attackers doing well in their various European clubs

Having been deemed surplus to requirements by Sevilla manager, Matias Almeyda, Kelechi

Iheanacho may have a fresh opportunity to revive his career in Mexico after the Nigerian striker has been offered to Club Universidad Nacional, better known as Pumas, as the Liga MX side explore attacking reinforcements.

Mexico’s Pumas UNAM are actively pursuing the Nigerian forward, currently with Sevilla, but face stiff competition from clubs in Europe, notably Besiktas.

Despite interest from Liga MX, no formal contact has yet been made, and negotiations remain fluid.

Sevilla’s coach, Matias, has signalled that Iheanacho is free to explore his options, citing offers from England, Turkey, and other European leagues, though nothing concrete has emerged so far. Pumas, building momentum after securing stars like Keylor Navas and Aaron Ramsey, see Iheanacho as a marquee addition if they can outbid rivals and win the striker’s approval.

Pumas are chasing a statement signing and Iheanacho fits the bill. With European suitors still interested, the Liga MX side must deliver a deal that combines ambition, financial appeal, and immediate commitment. It’s a bold move but bold is exactly what Pumas are signalling this window.

Iheanacho, for his part, needs minutes not just headlines. A move to Mexico could offer both game time and spotlight, but the draw of Europe’s competition and familiarity continues to weigh heavily. If he values revival and exposure, Pumas must offer more than a contract; they must present a pathway to reinvention.

If Pumas land him, it would firm their global intent. If Europe wins out, it underscores Iheanacho’s ongoing ambition to make a mark at the top levels. Either way, his next move will matter both for the club he joins and his own redemption arc.

Sevilla’s coach publicly confirmed that Iheanacho has multiple offers, giving him control over his next career move.

Pumas are bolstering their squad aggressively, having already signed Keylor Navas and Aaron Ramsey, signalling intent to return to prominence.

Talks between Pumas and Iheanacho remain informal, with no contract negotiations or official contact yet initiated.

Besiktas and Sevilla themselves remain in the picture, making Pumas a late but ambitious contender.

At 28, Iheanacho needs playing time to secure his slot for Nigeria’s AFCON squad later this year, adding urgency to his transfer decision.

Mundo Deportivo confirmed that Iheanacho had only just rejoined the

group due to what was officially described as an “indigestion”, but his exclusion is more indicative of his peripheral role in the club’s plans.

Sevilla are reportedly actively working to trim their squad this summer, and Iheanacho appears among the first set to be offloaded.

Meanwhile, Spanish Outlet Orgullobiri has reported that Sevilla have set a new price tag of €3 million on Iheanacho. This is €1.5 million less than his value on Transfermarkt.

Iheanacho’s future is uncertain at Sevilla, as he has failed to adjust to life there since joining last summer.

He had to play second fiddle to a faltering Isaac Romero in the first half of last season. Due to his lack of minutes, he joined Championship club Middlesbrough on loan in the January transfer window. Still, he did not deliver, and that made the club decide against a permanent move for him. Interestingly, Turkish Super Lig club Besiktas are considering a move for the Super Eagles striker this summer, as Sevilla set a €3 million asking price for the outof-favour forward.

Last season, Iheanacho contributed just four goals and two assists in 26 appearances across both Sevilla and Middlesbrough, highlighting his struggles to rediscover the form that made him a key player at Leicester City.

Reports from Gola TV indicate that Besiktas are exploring the possibility of signing Iheanacho as they look to add attacking reinforcements for the upcoming campaign.

The Istanbul giants recently completed the signing of another Super Eagles midfielder, Wilfred Ndidi, and his presence could influence their interest in Iheanacho, given their previous partnership at Leicester City.

Besiktas are seeking to strengthen their squad as they bid to challenge Galatasaray’s dominance in the Turkish Super Lig, with attacking options a priority for the club’s recruitment team.

The Nigerian striker represents an attractive financial option for Besiktas due to his relatively modest asking price, though his recent struggles may raise questions about his ability to deliver consistent performances.

His potential move to Turkey would represent another opportunity to rediscover the scoring touch that made him a regular feature in Nigeria’s national team setup.

Meanwhile, Sevilla sporting director, Victor Orta, has earlier admitted the club made a “mistake” by signing Iheanacho last year.

Iheanacho himself has changed clubs twice as he tried to get his career back on track.

The Super Eagles forward spent last season at Leicester as they won the Championship.

After his contract with the Foxes ran out, Iheanacho moved to Sevilla last summer. Although he scored three goals in the Copa Del Rey, he struggled to perform at the same level in La Liga, as he scored once in 11 appearances, most of which were off the bench.

Iheanacho then moved again to Middlesbrough in the English Championship.

Speaking at the unveiling of Joaquin Caparros as Sevilla’s new head coach, Orta said: “I want to clarify that the first two strikers were brought in as complements, to be practically the third striker, because there was a starter like Youssef and a striker who later appeared, like Isaac.

“But it’s clear that betting on Kelechi this season has been a mistake, and we will analyse why we made it and we are doing so now.”

It remains to be seen which club Iheanacho ends with before the closure of the summer transfer window, but one thing that is very clear is that it would not be a high-profile club, considering his dip in form.

Premier League resuLt

Liverpool 4 - 2 Bournemouth

Iheanacho could not pin down a regular shirt at Sevilla

D’Tigers Inch Nearer AfroBasket

Q’Finals, Crush Tunisia 87-66

Nigeria’s D’Tigers yesterday in Luanda, Angola, overpow- ered defending champions Tunisia 87–66 in their second Group Stage clash at the 2025 FIBA Men’s AfroBasket.

The win keeps the 2015 champions unbeaten after their opening 77–59 victory overNigeriaMadagascar. seized early control, taking a 29–16 lead in the first quarter before pulling away with a dominant third period.

With two wins from two games, D’Tigers are well on course for an automatic quarter-final berth, and their statement victory over Tunisia serves notice to the rest of the continent that they remain serious title contenders.

The result however compounds Tunisia’s woes after

their shock 86–65 defeat to Cameroon in the opening game, ending their decade- long unbeaten AfroBasket run.

According to FIBA.com, NBA star Josh Okogie lit up the arena with a sensational 33-point display, shooting 12-of- 19 from the field and a perfect 6-of-6 from the free-throw line, significantly boosting Nigeria’s quarterfinal hopes.

Tunisia’s Omar Abada and Yacine Toumi each contributed 13 points, but their efforts fell short as the Carthage Eagles slumped to a 0–2 record in the group.

The D’Tigers started strong, racing to a 10–0 lead with early three-pointers from Caleb Agada and Ike Nwamu. Talib Zanna and Kaodirichi Akonbundu added points in

the paint, forcing Tunisia’s coach Mehdi Mary to call a timeout just three and a half minutes into the game.Nigeria played with confidence throughout, with Okogie scoring 10 points in the first quarter alone, helping his team to a 29–16 lead. He continued his dominance in the second quarter, adding nine more points—including a deep three-pointer and a pair of free throws—to extend Nigeria’s lead to 38–19.

Tunisia struggled to match Nigeria’s intensity, with their attempts to close the gap thwarted by D’Tigers’ stifling defense. Aga- da’s free throws pushed the lead to 48–27, but Tunisia responded with a Bilel Jeziri three-pointer and a dramatic and-one play by Jawadi, narrowing the score to 48–33 at halftime.

Atalanta Last Throw of the Dice to Keep Lookman, Want More Than Initial €50m Price Tag on Nigerian

If reports from L’Eco di Bergamo, via FCInterNews is anything to go by Atalanta is now asking for more than €50 million price tag on Super Eagles forward, Ademola Lookman, and are willing to keep hold of the Nigerian if Inter Milan don’t bid that high.

The transfer saga between Inter, Atalanta, and Ademola Lookman has now dragged on for the better part of a month. Inter have made two offers for the Nigerian international. First, they made a bid worth €40

million all-in. Then, after Atalanta rejected that, they increased it to €45 million including add-ons.

Atalanta then rejected Inter’s second bid for Lookman.

And in the meantime, the former RB Leipzig forward has done everything he possibly can to force through a move to Inter.

Lookman has publicly demanded a transfer. he has also no-showed training for well over a week.

“The big question has always been whether Atalanta would accept an offer under €50 million.

Inter have gotten as high as €45 million including add-ons. However, they have balked at going much higher.

According toL’EcodiBergamo , though, Atalanta want a fee of over €50 million to sell Lookman.

Furthermore, the newspaper report, La Dea are prepared to hold onto the 27-year-old if they do not receive an offer that they deem to be sufficient.

Even if Lookman continues to kick up a fuss, Atalanta are ready to keep the player as part of their squad next season.

Super Eagles Suffer Semi Ajayi Blow as Hull City Defender Ruled Out Against Bafana Bafana, Wasps

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have suffered a significant setback ahead of their crucial 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers, with Hull City centre-back, Semi Ajayi ruled out due to injury.

Ajayi, who joined Hull City as a free agent this summer, sustained a hamstring injury in the aftermath of his side’s Championship opener against Coventry City, where he put in a commanding performance to help secure a goalless draw.

Although he was left out of

World Cup Qualifiers

Hull’s Carabao Cup tie against Wrexham as a precaution, further scans have revealed more serious damage.

According to Hull Live, the scan confirmed a hamstring strain that is expected to sideline the Nigerian international for at least a month.

This timeline means Ajayi will not only miss Hull City’s upcoming fixtures — starting with today’s clash against Oxford United — but also

Nigeria’s vital qualifiers against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana and Rwanda’s Amavubi (Wasps) in September.

The injury comes as a major blow to Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle, who will now be without one of his most experienced defenders as the Super Eagles look to get their World Cup qualifying campaign back on track.

Nigeria has endured a shaky start in Group C and Chelle will be under pressure to secure maximum points from the upcoming double-header.

Ikpeba Visits Peter Rufai’s Family, Rallies Teammates for Support

Former Super Eagles attacker, Victor Ikpeba has paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Peter Rufai. The Friday visit was emotionalfortheformerMonaco attacker, who was out of town when his former teammate passed on.

It was a heartwarming time for the mourning Rufai family, who had always known Ikpeba as a friend of the goalkeeper. The 1997 African Footballer of the Year spoke after a heart-to-heart

talk with the family, making a plea for friends and colleagues to rally around them in this pressing time.

He said, “In a time like this, a show of love and passion means a lot. Money is needed to do a lot of things, but we know that people who are mourning the head of the family, especially one who left this early, need the show of compassion more than anything.

“May I just use this opportu-

uK-based FCV International Football Academy Highlights Nigeria’s Vital role in Global Football Development

Ann Dyte, Chief Executive Officer of FCV International Football Academy, has underscored the importance of Nigeria to the global football industry, praising the country’s abundant and undeniable talent. Reflecting on the academy’s journey, Dyte explained that (FCV began as a platform in 2000)? to help young players showcase their football CVs online. “Back then, there weren’t many opportunities for players to present themselves. So, we created a space where they could be seen,” she said. As interest from football clubs grew, FCV evolved to host trial days, which later expanded into football camps. (By 2007, the academy was formally established as FCV Academy.)?

Now an international institution, FCV started with British players but has since welcomed talent from across the globe. “We’re proud to bring players to the home of the Premier League. It sets us apart,” Dyte noted.

As a not-for-profit organisation, FCV reinvests every penny into its operations. In 2022, the academy relocated to Grace Demeanor Park, a move Dyte described as a major step forward. “We’re fortunate to have an owner who believes in growth and development.”

Nigeria, she said, has been central to FCV’s success. “Nigeria is our biggest source of exceptional young footballers. We’ve built strong relationships with Nigerian families over the years. While I haven’t visited personally, our coaching staff frequently travels to Nigeria, and I’m in constant contact with Nigerian parents via WhatsApp.”

Dyte emphasised that FCV’s commitment goes beyond football. “We focus on education because parents understand

The Aba City in Abia State will be agog for the Geoffrey Uzoagbara Golf Super Kitty teeing-off today at Aba Sports Club 1926 Golf Section.

nity to thank the ex-players in Lagos who have shown commitment to this family. I say God bless every one of them.

“I therefore call on ex-players, especially his teammates, to reach out in whichever way they can to the family. The family members need us more than ever before. Whatever we can do to make the burial programme easier for them and also make life after the burial fair enough for them, let’s just do that.”

Friends and business associates, as well as about 100 golfers acrossthecountryareanticipated to grace the epic stroke play 18 holes golf kitty teeing-off from 7am to 10am while the presentation holds later in the day.

The super kitty is being organised byASC Golf Section Executives under the Captainship of Collins Ekwueme in honour of Geoffrey Uzoagbara Esq, a Past Honorary President ofASC 1926 andnowoneofthethreeTrustees of the Club, who just added a year to his age.

the importance of having a backup plan. We help players prepare for life beyond football, and that’s one of our greatest strengths.”

She also praised the character of Nigerian students. “They’re respectful, polite, and full of joy. They have big appetites, yes, but they’re a pleasure to host. You can hear them, see them—they’re vibrant and happy. Nigerian parents want the best for their children, and we’re proud of the trust they place in us.”

FCV offers elite football training led by UEFAA-licensed coaches, including former Premier League player Jack Hobbs. The academy also partners with Loughborough College and University to provide world-class education. “We combine top-tier football with genuine care. Our pastoral team, led by Katie, ensures the boys feel at home. We’re strict when needed, but always supportive.”

Dyte was candid about the academy’s philosophy. “We don’t promise Premier League contracts. That wouldn’t be honest. We promise to give every boy the best chance to succeed. Development varies greatly between ages 15 and 18, and we respect that journey.”

She acknowledged the financial challenges of running such a comprehensive programme.

“We don’t outsource accommodation. Every boy is cared for individually. Rising costs and government pressures have led to price adjustments, but we remain committed to offering value. As CEO, it’s my responsibility to ensure sustainability.

“We’re a not-for-profit organisation, but it’s my responsibility to ensure that everything runs effectively,” said Ann Dyte, CEO of FCV International

The celebrant, who is a past President of Aba Sports Club 1926, current Trustee, and President, Aba Chamber of Commerce Industries Mines and Agriculture (ACCIMA), has contributed immensely to the growth of golf.

According to the organisers: “This golf super kitty is to celebrate Geoffrey Uzoagbara esq., patriotism, philanthropy and love for the great game of golf and mankind.

“It is expected that some of his friends and business associates who may not play the kitty would also support it.

“Our budget is to raise a minimum of N10 million for this event and we humbly solicit

Football Academy. “That’s why I believe we offer excellent value for what we charge.”

Meanwhile, the Chief Executive Officer of Dynaspro Sports Promotion, Oluseyi Oyebode, a long-time partner of FCV International Football Academy, has reaffirmed his commitment to helping more Nigerian players access opportunities through the UK-based institution.

“The journey began in 2012 during a tournament at Keele University,” he recalled. “FCV came for showcase matches, and we had extensive discussions with their manager at the time, Martin Harris. They saw the potential in Nigerian players, and that’s how our relationship started.”

Since then, the partnership has flourished. “We’ve built trust over the years and helped many students grow into successful individuals. Some have earned scholarships abroad, while others continue to pursue professional football careers. What we’ve achieved is the integration of education and football—that missing link that has changed lives.”

Oyebode emphasised the importance of combining academics with sports. “I’m who I am today by the grace of God, and because I had the chance to play football and go to school. Many Nigerian ex-footballers struggle today due to a lack of education. Those who managed to balance both are thriving. That’s why I was determined to make a difference.”

He believes talent exists beyond the streets. “Many students in high-profile schools have football talent, but they don’t lose it because their parents don’t support it. They’re pushed toward academics alone. I’m a living example—had I not followed my passion, I might have ended up as an accountant. But I chose football, and here we are.”

support towards

be

D’Tigers in dream start, crushes defending champions, Tunisia, 87-66 at the 2025 Afro Basketball in Luanda, Angola

uzoagbara

We’re committed to supporting more Nigerian Players through FCV, says Oyebode

this venture. Support is already coming in. Additional funds realised will

used to execute a life project in his name.”

Nigeria’s future football stars participating in the FCV Academy in the united Kingdom, (inset) top left, Chief executive Officer of FCV International Football Academy, Ann Dyte, bottom left, Chief executive Officer of Dynaspro Sports promotion, Oluseyi Oyebode

COURTESY VISIT...

EFCC, ADC and Related Matters

Let us backtrack to some four/ five years ago. A prominent Nigerian politician who was contesting for the office of President complained loudly in the media that the sitting government was using the nation's anticorruption agencies to persecute only his political friends and associates. The narrative made headlines. The man in question was celebrating his presumed wit and media sunbathing - until he got busted.

He was 'shot down' by a journalist during one of his media outings: "Your Excellency, we are not aware that the anti corruption agencies are going after people against whom there's no iota of suspicion or evidence of corruption. We are also not aware that you have any other plank on which you are basing your

complaints, other than the claim that the agencies in question seem not to be going after corrupt individuals on other sides of the political divide. So, Sir, are you saying

that your political friends who are "being harraseed" to use your words, have cases to answer, and that they should simply be "harassed" alongside other possibly corrupt individuals?”

The venue of the media engagement became dead quiet. Let us just say that the great politician never recovered from it. He also no longer raised issues about who was, or was not, being invited by the anti-corruption agencies theirafter.

On the table before us today, and since former governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal, was invited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in connection with some financial transactions during his tenure as governor.

The gentlemen was invited, questioned, interrogated overnight and released on administrative bail. The invitation centered around alleged fraudulent cash withdrawals

amounting to approximately ₦189 billion during his 2015–2023 tenure as Sokoto State Governor.

The EFCC’s reasons for inviting Tambuwal is that, it's financial profiling of the accounts of the state revealed that there were unusual withdrawals between January 1, 2015, and August 31, 2021, totaling ₦189,155,043,825.09. These withdrawals were said to be from three key accounts, namely: Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), Government House, and Secretary to the State Government. The position of the investigative agency is that these withdrawals violated provisions of the Money Laundering (Prevention & Prohibition) Act of 2022. Reactions and political backlash arising from this development have been loud.

Continued on page 27

From Caution to Confidence, Nigeria’s Stock Market Sustains Rally

The Nigerian stock market is gradually emerging as one of the most compelling stories of resilience and renewed optimism in the country’s economic narrative in 2025, as the first eight months of the year have signalled a sharp turnaround.

Confidence has replaced caution, resulting in a bullish trend that has captured the attention of both local and foreign investors. Indeed, the stock market is a mirror of expectations about the broader economy, and smart investors do what the rest of the crowd is not doing.

Precisely, the market capitalisation of the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX), which stood at N62,763,276,924,058 as at December 31, 2024, has so far increased by N28,738,440,324,013 or 45 percent to N91,501,717,248,071.38 yesterday.

Similarly, the All-Share Index of the Nigerian bourse has advanced by 40.5

percent in the past eight months, from 102,926.40 as at December 31, 2024, to 144,628.20 yesterday.

In terms of sectoral performance, for the banking stocks, equities such as Wema Bank have given investors reasons to smile

as it has appreciated by 150 percent, from N9.1 per share on the last trading day of 2025, to N22.75 per share yesterday. Similarly, while Stanbic IBTC’s shares, which stood at N57.6 per share at the end of 2024, closed at N111 per share yesterday; GTCO from N57 per share at the end of 2024, to N97.7 per share yesterday.

In the insurance sector, for instance, while AIICO Insurance share price has so far appreciated by 62 per cent, from N1.43 per share at the end of 2024, to N3.80 per share yesterday, AXA Mansard also appreciated from N8.2 per share at the end of 2024, to N16.75 per share as at yesterday, showing a 51 per cent appreciation since this year.

In the Foods sub-sector, while BUA Foods Plc has recorded a 42 percent year-to-date growth from N415 per share at the end of 2024, to N588 per share yesterday, Honeywell

tremendous growth, moving from N6.3 per share at the end of 2024, to N22.70 per share yesterday; NASCON Allied Industries Plc advanced in the past eight months to N90.5 per share yesterday, from N31.35 per share at the end of 2024, and Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc’s share price has also appreciated from N32.5 per share at the end of 2024, to N55.95 per share yesterday.

Equally, in the Cement sector, BUA Cement has also gained a remarkable 82 per cent, from N93 per share at the end of the year, to N168.6 per share yesterday and Dangote Cement Plc has also climbed by 20.5 per cent to N577 per share yesterday, from N478.8 per share at the end of 2024.

At the start of the year, few would have predicted the scale of the rally we are now witnessing because of the

Group CEO NGX Group, Temi Popoola

Flour Mills Plc has recorded

EFCC Chairman, Olukoyede

L-R: Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; Director General World Trade Organization (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite and Special Adviser to the President on Finance and Economy, Mrs. Sayande Okoli, after the WTO chief’s visit to Edun in Abuja…Thursday