SATURDAY 10TH FEBRUARY 2024

Tinubu Signs Electricity Act Amendment Bill into Law Regulation mandates Gencos to vote 5%of their annual expenditure for host communities’ devt Makinde signs Oyo electricity regulatory commission bill into law Deji Elumoye in Abuja and Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan President Bola Tinubu yesterday

signed the Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024, into law.

The bill, which was passed by the House of Representatives on July 27,

2023, and the Senate on November 14, 2023, was sponsored by Hon. Babajimi Benson, who represents Ikorodu Federal Constituency of

Lagos State.

The Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 seeks to address the development and environmental

concerns of host communities, and sets aside five percent of the actual annual operating expenditures of power generating companies

(GENCOs) from the preceding year for the development of their Continued on page 5

After Strike Threat, FG Moves to Pacify Labour, Says Implementation of MoU in Progress...

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Find Lasting Solution to Insecurity, Hardship CAN, Anglican Church, Yoruba Leaders Tell FG Ooni caucus calls for location of military base in Ekiti to stop menace Joins calls for creation of state police John Shiklam in Kaduna, Peter Uzoho and Sunday Ehigiator in Lagos

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and

the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has called on the federal government to find a lasting solution to the prevailing

economic hardship and insecurity facing Nigerians.

Equally, the Church of Nigeria

Anglican Communion has also expressed concern over the rising spate of insecurity in Nigeria, as

well as its burgeoning debt profile, Continued on page 5

Forex Market Records $1.83 Billion Turnover in One Week Amid Reforms Cardoso urges Nigerians to moderate appetite for dollar, patronise local services Says apex bank has resolved to end ways and means financing CBN removes cap on interbank FX transactions Edun: FG to resume social intervention schemes to reduce hardship Sunday Aborisade, James Emejo in Abuja and Nume Ekeghe in Lagos The Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange (NAFEM) recorded a total transaction volume of $1.83 billion in one week, indicating an increase in foreign exchange (FX) activities, figures compiled by THISDAY showed.

The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, who also confirmed the significant rise in FX transactions during an interactive session organised by the Senate Committees on Finance, Appropriations, Banking Insurance and other Financial Institutions, yesterday, said recent reforms initiated by the central bank were yielding positive results in the FX market as evidenced by the liquidity boost.

The increased dollar liquidity appeared to have reaffirmed investors’ growing confidence.

Also speaking at the session, the Minister of Finance/Coordinating Continued on page 5

ECONOMIC REVIVAL ON THEIR MINDS… L-R: Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso; Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Senator Abubakar Kyari; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, and Minister of Budget and National Development, Senator Atiku Bagudu, during an interactive session between a Joint Committee of the Senate, the ministers and CBN on the state of the economy held in Abuja…yesterday

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After Strike Threat, FG Moves to Pacify Labour, Says Implementation of MoU in Progress Declares glitches in payment of N35,000 being addressed Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The federal government yesterday responded to the threat issued by the organised labour to declare a nationwide strike in the next two weeks, saying that it has so far demonstrated good faith in implementing the agreement it had with the workers over cushioning the

hardship from fuel subsidy removal.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja, Minister of State, Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.

Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration was tirelessly working to ensure that everything was done to address the needs and concerns of the nation.

She said: "We have shown good faith, government is committed to expedite full implementation of the MOU. "This government acknowledges the challenges faced by Nigerians and has demonstrated sincerity in its ongoing negotiations with the trade unions".

Both the Nigeria Labour Congress

(NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) had issued a 14-day ultimatum to the federal government over the non-implementation of the 16-point agreement reached with the federal government on October 2, 2023.

In a statement jointly signed

by NLC President, Joe Ajaero and his counterpart in the TUC,

Festus Osifoh, the two labour centres threatened that if federal government fails to honour its part of the understanding within 14 days, the workers would down tool from 23rd of February, 2024.

They said government's failure to uphold its end of the bargain was deeply regrettable and unacceptable to the Working people and the citizenry.

However, reacting to allegations by the labour movement, the Minister said government had progressively implemented the Memorandum of Understanding reached with the unions and had kept its doors open for further engagement to ensure that everything was done to address the needs and concerns of the nation.

FOREX MARKET RECORDS $1.83 BILLION TURNOVER IN ONE WEEK AMID REFORMS Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, said the federal government was committed to ending the current pains of Nigerians through a social security strategy.

Equally, the CBN yesterday announced that it has removed the ±2.5 per cent cap spread on interbank FX transactions. The CBN disclosed this in a circular dated February 8, 2024, signed by the Director, Financial Markets Department, Dr. Duke Omotunde, obtained yesterday.

It stated: “A key objective of the ongoing foreign exchange market reforms by the CBN is to promote a market-based price discovery system. Consequently, the bank hereby discontinues any cap on the spread on interbank foreign exchange transactions and restrictions on the sale of interbank proceeds.

“Authorised Dealers are to continue to conduct their foreign exchange transactions on a “Willing Buyer and Willing Seller” basis. In addition, they are to strictly adhere to high ethical standards in their dealings in the foreign exchange markets. This includes but not limited to adopting appropriate price disclosures and transparency for transactions.”

A breakdown of the daily activities from Monday to Friday compiled by THISDAY, showed that on Monday, the official FX market recorded turnover of $584.53 million; Tuesday, it reduced to $465.29 million; on Wednesday it was $209.93 million; Thursday it was $321.23 million and on Friday, it was $253.77 million.

Also, the naira remained stable yesterday, as it closed at N1,500/$1 on the parallel FX market, same as

Thursday's rate, while it appreciated slightly on the official window to N1,469/$1 from the N1,479/$ recorded on Thursday.

However, speaking during the interactive session organised by the Senate Committees on Finance, Appropriations, Banking Insurance and other Financial Institutions, Cardoso said the reforms initiated by the central bank were yielding positive results in the FX market as evidence by the liquidity boost.

The apex bank boss also said the CBN had resolved to put an end to the “Ways and Means” regime until the federal government defrayed its outstanding debts.

He said, “We have already begun to see shifts in a positive direction.

Indeed, we have already begun to see positive results with significant interest from foreign portfolio investors which was a concern that has already begun to supply the much-needed foreign exchange to the economy.

“For example, the upward trend of the last few days; we have had over $1 billion that have come into the market. And this, quite frankly, is the answer to the question.”

The CBN governor however, pointed out that the apex bank lacked the magic wand to stabilise the naira exchange rate, maintaining that, “Nigerians have to reduce frequent demand for dollars for business and personal needs.”

Cardoso said Nigerians' insatiable love for the dollar, foreign goods and services was seriously overstretching the value of the naira against foreign currencies.

He urged Nigerians, especially

the elite, to reduce their appetite for foreign currency, consumption and usage of foreign goods, and patronage of foreign schools and hospitals.

He told the lawmakers that the current reforms had generated significant interest from foreign portfolio investors.

Cardoso added, "The Nigerian foreign exchange market is currently facing increased demand pressures, causing a continuous decline in the value of the naira "Factors contributing to this situation include speculative forex demand, inadequate FX supply increased capital outflows, and excess liquidity.

"To address exchange rate volatility, a comprehensive strategy has been initiated to enhance liquidity in the forex markets.”

He said, "This includes unifying forex market segments, clearing outstanding forex obligations, introducing new operational mechanisms for BDCs and IMTOs, enforcing the Net Open Position limit, Open Market Operations, and adjusting the remunerable Standing Deposit Facility cap among others.

"The measures, aimed at ensuring a more market-oriented mechanism for exchange rate determination, will boost foreign exchange inflows, stabilise the exchange rate, and minimise its pass-through to domestic inflation.

"Indeed, they have already started yielding early results with significant interest from Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) that have already begun to supply the much-needed

foreign exchange to the economy.”

He added, "For example, upwards of $1 billion in the last few days came in to subscribe to the Nigeria Treasury Bill auction of N1 trillion which saw an oversubscription earlier this week.

"Our measures aimed at improving dollar supply into the Nigerian economy has significant potential in taming the volatility of the exchange rates. However, for these measures to be sustainable, we must as a country, moderate our demand for FX. "It is also clear that the task of stabilising the exchange rate, while an official mandate of the CBN, would necessitate efforts beyond the bank itself.

"It will also include actions by corporates and individuals to reduce our frequent demand for the dollar for business and personal needs".

Also, commenting on current inflationary pressure on the economy, the CBN governor, who attributed the food inflation to insecurity, and natural causes, however, assured Nigerians that the headline index will reduce to 21.4 per cent in 2024.

"On our side at the CBN, we have responded with significant monetary policy tightening to reign in inflationary pressure. Empirical analysis has established that money supply is one of the factors fueling the current inflationary pressure.

"For instance, an analysis of the trend of the money supply spanning over nine months shows that M3 increased from N52.01 trillion in January 2023 to N68.25 trillion in November 2023 representing N16.24 trillion or 31.22 percent increase over

FIND LASTING SOLUTION TO INSECURITY, HARDSHIP CAN, ANGLICAN CHURCH, YORUBA LEADERS TELL FG saying, external borrowing exposes the country to risk of high exchange rate.

Also, following the recent kidnap and brutal killing of some traditional rulers and students in Ekiti and Kwara states and the general insecurity in the region, a pan-Yoruba protectionist group, the Ooni Caucus, has called on the federal government to urgently locate a military base in Ekiti to assist the existing security establishments to end the menace.

In a statement in Kaduna, yesterday, Secretary General of Northern CAN, Elder Sunday Oibe, called for urgent steps to address the rising cost of foodstuffs, transportation and essential goods and services.

The Christian body also decried the widespread of insecurity across the country occasioned by killings and abduction by bandits. It expressed sadness over the recent invasion of communities in Plateau State which led to killings and destruction of property.

Oibe also condemned the establishment of a vigilante outfit by the Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore in Nasarawa State, warning that allowing a tribal security outfit was an invitation to crisis.

"Northern CAN wishes to express its deep concern over the prevailing economic hardship and the increasing security challenges across the country. The suffering in the country is becoming unbearable for ordinary Nigerians.

"High cost of foodstuffs,

transportation, goods and services have made life difficult for many Nigerians. The epileptic power supply has led to the collapse of small businesses. The continued decline in the value of the naira and the seeming inability of the government to address the situation has completely weakened the purchasing power of ordinary Nigerians," the statement noted.

Oibe added, "The situation is further compounded by escalating insecurity occasioned by rampant killings and kidnapping for ransom. Government must take urgent steps to address the depressing economic and escalating security situation in the country.”

Northern CAN also noted the rampaging activities of bandits in Plateau State and other parts of the country in recent times and called on the government to do everything possible to end the carnage.

The statement further stated, "These killings have continued because the perpetrators have never been brought to justice.

"Unless justice is done, by ensuring that the perpetrators and their sponsors are brought to book, all the talks about peace may be mere rhetorics."

The statement, however, commended security agencies for their sacrifices and patriotism in ensuring that these criminal elements are flushed out and urged them not to relent in their efforts to crush them.

Oibe advised that the security architecture be reviewed for effective

and decisive action.

The statement further called on governments at all levels to support the security agencies with all that is required to fight banditry and terrorism.

"Northern CAN also noted with concern, the inauguration of a security outfit by a tribal group, Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore in Nasarawa State.

"We find the establishment of the security outfit by a group, which some of its members are being accused of banditry and kidnapping across the country very disturbing.

"Northern CAN wishes to state in strong terms that allowing any ethno-cultural group to set up a security outfit, is an invitation to anarchy.”

Meanwhile, in a separate statement signed by the spokesperson, Anglican Church in Nigeria, Folu Olamiti, the Archbishop Metropolitan and Primate of all Nigeria, Most Revd.

Henry Ndukuba, while addressing delegates at the just concluded Standing Committee Meeting of the church in Ika Delta State, said apart from the worsening insecurity in Nigeria the church is also worried about the “not too good state of the nation's economy, especially the debt profile.”

He said, “It was a grave concern that debt servicing had increased to N11 trillion and surpassed both recurrent and budgetary expenditures.

“Our debt profile has increased from $63 billion to over $120 billion

by the end of the year 2023, with 96 per cent of revenues now going to just debt service alone.”

The Primate described it as frightening as it would limit the funds available for critical sectors “like healthcare, education and infrastructure.”

He therefore called on the leadership of the country to quickly address this development as it could hinder the government's ability to effectively implement its development agenda.

He also reminded those in power that, “the reliance on external borrowing exposes the Nigerian economy to exchange rate risks. It is already having a negative effect on our battered Naira currently exchanging at N1,420 to $1.

“Another negative effect of high debt level is the potential to erode investor confidence, particularly among foreign investors, resulting in capital flight, thereby negatively impacting the Nigerian stock market and overall economic stability.

“Continuous borrowing contributes to inflationary pressures in the economy because as the government injects more money in circulation, it drives up prices, affecting the cost of living for ordinary citizens.”

In a related development, the Ooni Caucus, also called on the federal government to urgently locate a military base in Ekiti to assist the existing security establishments to end the menace.

the period.

"Increase in Net Foreign Asset (NFA) following the harmonisation of exchange rates and the N3.22 trillion ways and means advances were the major factors driving the increase in money supply," he added.

On the CBN's Ways and Means regime, Cardoso told the lawmakers that the central bank had decided to discontinue its exposure to the federal government.

He said, "I am pleased to note the Fiscal Authorities efforts in discontinuing ways and means advances. This is also in compliance with section (38) of the CBN Act (2007), the Bank is no longer at liberty to grant further ways and means advances to the federal government until the outstanding balance as of December 31, 2023, is fully settled.

"The bank must strictly adhere to the law limiting advances under ways and means to five per cent of the previous year’s revenue.

"We have also halted quasifiscal measures of over N10 trillion by the Central Bank of Nigeria under the guise of development finance interventions which hitherto contributed to flooding excess Naira and raising prices to the levels of Inflation we are grappling with today.”

He said, "The CBN's adoption of the inflation-targeting framework involves clear communication and collaboration with fiscal authorities to achieve price stability, potentially leading to lowered policy rates, stimulating investment, and creating job opportunities.

TINUBU SIGNS ELECTRICITY ACT AMENDMENT BILL INTO LAW respective host communities.

The Act further provides that the funds set aside for the development of host communities will be received, managed, and administered for infrastructure development in the host communities by a reputable Trustee/Manager to be jointly appointed by the respective GENCO and their host community.

The Act guarantees the decentralisation and de-monopolisation of Nigeria’s electricity generation, transmission, and distribution at the National level and authorises states, companies, and individuals to generate, transmit and distribute electricity.

Under the Act, States are empowered to issue licences to private investors who in turn would be permitted to set-up and operate mini-grids and power plants within the State.

The licences obtainable include: electricity generation license (excluding captive generation); electricity transmission license; electricity distribution license; electricity supply license; electricity trading license; and system operation license. These licenses enable private entities to participate in different aspects of the electricity value chain, thereby promoting competition, and encouraging innovation to solve the growing energy needs of Nigeria.

Furthermore, the Act stipulates that without a license, a person may operate or construct an undertaking for the purpose of generating electricity not surpassing 1 megawatt (MW) in total at a site, or an undertaking for the distribution of electricity with a capacity not surpassing 100 Kilowatts (KW) in total at a site or such other capacity as the Commission may determine. In other words, it is possible for a person to construct, own, or operate an undertaking for the purpose of generating electricity or an undertaking for distributing electricity without obtaining a license, provided that such construction, ownership, or operation undertaking shall not exceed 1MW or distribution undertaking shall not exceed 100KW. However, the Act prohibits inter-state and transnational electricity distribution.

In a related development, Governor Seyi Makinde, yesterday, signed into law the Oyo State Electricity Regulatory Commission Bill 2024.

The governor, who performed the signing ceremony at the Conference Room of the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, said the signing was to give the state opportunity to develop its own roadmap to sustainable electricity.

The governor stated that with the decentralisation of electricity generation, transmission and distribution, it had become obvious that Nigerians can access dividends of democracy if federalism is practised as it should be and more powers are devolved to the states.

He said, “As promised earlier in the week, we are signing the Oyo State Electricity Regulatory Commission Bill 2024 into law today. This law will enable Oyo State generate, transmit and distribute electricity within the State.

"Amendments of the constitution like these is what we mean when we advocate for fiscal federalism. In years to come as we work towards energy sufficiency, our people can hold State Governments accountable on the issue of electricity supply."

While presenting the Bill earlier, Deputy Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Mohammed Fadeyi, said this is the first time that the state would come up with an independent electricity project.

Present at the signing of the Bill were the Deputy Governor, Barr. Bayo Lawal; Secretary to the State Government; Prof. Olanike Adeyemo; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Segun Ogunwuyi and the Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni (mni).

From the House of Assembly, the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Fadeyi; Chairman, House Committee on Energy, Hon. Deji Oparinde and a member of the committee, Hon. Gabriel Babajide, were in attendance.

Also in attendance were the Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General, Mr Biodun Aikomo; Commissioner for Energy, Mr Temilolu Ashamu; Chairman and co-chairman of the Oyo State Elders’ Council, Dr Saka Balogun and Elder Wole Oyelese, respectively.

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News Editor: Charles Ajunwa 09157401421 (sms only) Email charles.ajunwa@thisdaylive.com

STRENGTHENING RELATIONSHIP… L-R: Group Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Exchange Group Plc (NGX Group), Temi Popoola; Chairman, NGX and Founder, Petralon Energy, Ahonsi Unuigbe; Director General, Securities and Exchange Commission, Lamido Yuguda; Group Chairman, NGX Group, Umaru Kwairanga; Chairman, Senate Committee on Capital Market and Institutions, Osita Izunaso, Committee Members, Abba Moro; Peter Jiya and Acting Chief Executive Officer, NGX, Jude Chiemeka, during an interactive session aimed at strengthening relationship between the lawmakers and the regulators held in Lagos…recently

Ogbuku: NDDC Now Focused on Niger Delta Transformation Eno seeks improved collaboration between commission, states Okon Bassey in Uyo The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has said that the commission, as path of its rebirth and rewind policy, is “transiting from transaction to transformation” in the process of developing the Niger Delta region.

Speaking during a two-day Board and Management Retreat at the Four Point by Sheraton, Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, Ogbuku stated that the commission was strengthening its processes and improving on its corporate governance system.

Ogbuku said the NDDC was committed to actualising a thriving Niger Delta through the Renewed

Edo Guber: Labour Party Adjusts Date for Primaries, Increases Number of Delegates Chuks Okocha in Abuja The leadership of the Labour Party has approved a slight adjustment in the party's guidelines ahead of the Edo State governorship primary election.

A statement by the National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, said that the party took this decision after its National Working Committee meeting yesterday and adjusted by a day the entire timetable including the dates for the purchase and submission of forms for the delegate elections, deadline for the purchase and submission of the Expression of Interest and Nomination forms for the governorship primary election as well as dates for the appeals.

He said that the sale of forms which was earlier slated to end on Saturday February 10, is now shifted to Monday February 12. The date for the governorship primaries earlier fixed for February 22, will now hold on the 23 of February.

Similarly, Ifoh said that the leadership of the party also adjusted the guideline for the emergence of the party candidate for the election. While two delegates will emerge from each of the 192 political wards in the state, the leadership of the party however increased the local government delegates from five to seven persons in all the 18 LGAs each.

"In taking this decision, the party, having listened to submissions from the various stakeholders of the party including the members of the National Assembly, elders and leaders of the party in the state, agreed to increase the number of the delegates to ensure more participation and democratization of the exercise."

The party pledged that it would ensure a level playing ground for all aspirants even as it insists that it would not in any way interfere in the process leading to the emergence of its flagbearer.

UNICAL Professor Ndifon, Lawyer Get N300m Bail Alex Enumah in Abuja Relief came the way of the suspended Dean of Faculty of Law, University of Calabar (UNICAL), Prof. Cyril Ndifon, as a Federal High Court, Abuja, yesterday, admitted him to bail in the sum of N250 million with two sureties in like sum.

His co-defendant and lawyer, Mr. Sunny Anyanwu, however got bail in the sum of N50 million with two sureties, making a total of N300 million for the duo.

They were arraigned by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), on an amended four-count charge bordering on alleged sexual

harassment and attempt to perverse the cause of justice.

They pleaded not guilty and drew the court's attention to their bail application, but trial judge, Justice James Omotosho, deferred ruling in the application pending the evidence of the prosecution's star witness.

In admitting the defendants to bail yesterday, the judge while observing that bail is at the discretion of the court held that after taking submissions for and against the bail applications he was inclined to grant them bail in the interest of justice.

According to the court, the defendants had made out a prima facie case for the court to exercise its discretion in their favour.

Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led federal government.

He stressed: “We are not just building roads and bridges. We are stitching together a vibrant tapestry of development, from healthcare and education to skills development and job creation."

The managing director said one of the issues that needed to be addressed was the financial framework for effective service delivery. He explained: “At present, we operate under the Treasury Single Account (TSA) framework.

“We recognise the importance of transparency and accountability, principles enshrined in the Treasury Single Account (TSA) policy. The impact of TSA on NDDC operations, like other agencies, includes improved financial management, increased oversight, budgetary discipline, and enhanced cash management.

Centralising revenue through TSA enhances transparency, facilitates government monitoring, enforces budgetary discipline, and streamlines cash management.

“However, a one-size-fits-all approach poses challenges to our diverse operational landscape.

Although it is good for transparency, accountability and efficient pooling of public resources, the TSA policy has weighty limitations for an interventionist agency like the NDDC,” the Director, Corporate Affairs, NDDC, Pius Ughakpoteni, was quoted in a statement to have said.

Ogbuku noted that the NDDC was able to complete many legacy projects before the TSA regime came into effect.

He stated: “Many landmark projects were brought to life before the TSA, utilising Advance Payment Guarantees to expedite delivery and ensure timely execution. While we embrace the TSA's transparency goals, its centralised control has undoubtedly created hurdles, particularly in maintaining project pace. The limited construction window further compounds these challenges. To truly deliver on the Renewed Hope Agenda, we need to remove funding impediments.”

The NDDC boss advocated the removal of the commission from operating under the TSA framework due to its unique characteristics and the potential benefits of increased autonomy in financial management.

He said further: “Such removal

will enhance Regional Development Needs; as the NDDC is tasked with addressing specific and urgent development needs in the Niger Delta region. Timely and flexible financial decision-making is crucial to respond effectively to dynamic regional challenges.”

Also speaking, the former Managing Director of the NDDC, Mr. Timi Alaibe, said sustainable development represented the pathway to the future.

He warned: "Sustainable development in the Niger Delta environment is something that should not be compromised because of the damage to our ecosystem, environment and sociopolitical survival and sustainability."

He emphasised the need to have a plan to serve the purpose of the Niger Delta people, as well as the need for a Renewed Framework so that no one was left behind. In this way, he called for an urgent review of the Niger Delta Regional Development Master Plan.

In her goodwill message, the Chairman, House Committee on NDDC, Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu observed that the theme of the retreat aligned with the drive to rewrite

the narrative of the people of the Niger Delta region.

Hon. Ibori-Suenu, who was represented by the deputy Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Jafaru Gambo Leko, expressed confidence that the Niger Delta stakeholders could collectively achieve the goals of the people.

The House Committee Chairman commended president Tinubu for assembling capable hands to run the NDDC and charge the Board members to see their appointment as a call to service to the people of the Niger Delta and the nation at large.

She added: “Every decision, policy endorsed and projects you undertake, should be guided by commitment and be rest assured the National Assembly will support you in the discharge of your mandate.”

Meanwhile, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has called for collaboration between the NDDC and state governments in the region.

Eno made the call when he received in audience a delegation of the NDDC Board and Management team led by the Board Chairman, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, visiting the state for the retreat.

Fubara Assures Germany of Safe Business Environment in Rivers Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt Rivers State Governor, Mr. Siminalayi Fubara, has assured the business delegation of the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce of a safe business environment in the state.

Governor Fubara stated that his administration is not only establishing a strong investment driven relationship with the German government but has also ensured a safe climate for business to thrive in the state.

Fubara gave the assurance yesterday when he met behind closed doors the

Vice Consul-General of Germany to Nigeria, Mr. Jochen Schindelarz and the business delegation of the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce at Government House in Port Harcourt.

Speaking with journalists immediately after the meeting, Mr. Schindelarz expressed his excitement at the assurance given by the governor to sustain a safe environment for their various investments in the State and ensure that they are protected.

Schindelarz said: "This was the main point and I think it is the most important thing the governor can do

for us because if investments are not protected and safe, there won't be any investment.

"So, this is what I take away from this meeting and all these are the basis of good investment. I think we will establish good partnership and it will motivate our companies to invest here."

The team leader of the delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Nigeria, Mr. Sebastian Glaeser, said there is now a mutual agreement for more business representatives of Rivers State to be sponsored to Europe to showcase investment opportunities.

Glaeser informed that both the Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (PHCCIMA) and the German Chamber have been tasked to facilitate such business visits that will facilitate increased direct foreign investments in the Sate.

"Our investment in oil and gas is already working because last year a big contract was signed for energy supply.

Now, the next step is to also go beyond oil to Hydrogen, into agriculture, into industrial products and we are looking forward to that.

British High Commission, Kaduna Sign Accountability Framework Michael Olugbode in Abuja The Development Director for the British High Commission, Nigeria, Ms Cynthia Rowe, and Kaduna State Governor.

Uba Sani, have signed the Kaduna Mutual Accountability Framework (K-MAF).

The signing earmarked the revitalised commitment to support good governance, human capital development with a focus on health,

education, social protection, economic recovery, and poverty reduction for the state.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office, Nigeria, first entered the mutual accountability relationship with the Kaduna government in June 2021, under the leadership and administration of Mallam Nasir Ahmed el-Rufai.

The newly revised framework, according to a statement yesterday,

focuses on the mandate to reduce poverty through economic growth, good governance, and investment in people; via a state-led ownership commitment focused on results, accountability, and transparency; and with the support from FCDO through technical assistance.

During the signing, the Development Director for the British High Commission, Nigeria, Rowe, said: “Today’s signing reaffirms our commitment to the plans included

and outlined in the framework, and to working closely with the Kaduna Governor, His Excellency Senator. Uba Sani to achieve these.

“Together, we will work to fulfil the ‘offers’ and ‘asks’ of the Kaduna Mutual Accountability document; over the next 12 months.

“We very much look forward to continuing the work in the state - both with government and civil society - to enhance prosperity within the state.”

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COURTESY VISIT… L-R: Senior Program Manager, International Organisation on Migration (IOM), Stephen Matele; Comptroller General of Immigration, Caroline Wura-Ola Adepoju and National Programme Officer, IOM, Ms. Eniola Joy Oladepo, during a courtesy call on the immigration boss in Abuja... recently

NERC Fines 11 Discos N10.5bn for Violating Capping Order for Unmetered Consumers Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) yesterday announced that it had sanctioned the 11 electricity Distribution Companies (Discos) operating in the country over non-compliance with capping of estimated bills for unmetered customers nationwide.

In 2020, the industry regulator had in furtherance of its mandate to ensure an efficient and fair electricity market introduced an order to cap the amount that a distribution company could charge an unmetered consumer until he or she is metered.

At the time, the NERC had said setting the cap at a level would protect unmetered customers and provide sufficient incentives for the Discos to quickly meter such customers.

The context of the regulation, it said, was the realisation that distribution companies were not doing enough

to meter unmetered customers since the takeover of the network by the preferred bidders on November 1, 2013.

“This has led to overbilling of customers especially in the face of dwindling supply of electricity,” it said.

But for flouting the rules, NERC in a statement, imposed a N10.5 billion fine on the electricity distribution companies.

A cursory look at the infractions carried out by individual Discos showed that the they may have ripped off Nigerian electricity consumers to the tune of N105.05 billion in the first nine months of 2023.

It showed that Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), for example, over-billed its customers without meters to the tune of N17.8 billion, while Eko Distribution Company (EKEDC) exceeded its normal capping

by N13.137 billion.

For Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHEDC), it was N14.187 billion, Kaduna Electric

Kwara Donates 10, 000 Bags of 10kg Rice as Palliative to Workers Hammed Shittu in Ilorin Kwara State Government yesterday donated 10,000 bags of 10kg rice palliatives to the labour unions for onward distribution to their members.

A statement issued in Ilorin by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Rafiu Ajakaye, stated that the delivery of the rice was another layer of support to the workers in the state as Nigeria battles to beat down the cost of consumer goods.

He said, "The palliatives followed an engagement Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq had with the leadership of the organised labour unions and other stakeholders during the week."

However, in their separate remarks, State Chairman of Trade Union Congress (TUC) Comrade Joseph Tunde Meshach and State Chairman of Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Saheed

Olayinka, commended the governor for his continuous efforts to provide relief to the people in the state.

Acknowledging that the government has granted 11 of 21 requests, the labour leaders said talks are proceeding positively with the government on their other demands to improve their condition of service.

"We are here distributing the bags of rice given to us by His Excellency the Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. On Tuesday, we had a meeting with him, where he said he would be giving the labour movement in the state 10,000 bags of rice (10kg) as a form of support at this time," TUC Chairman, Meshach, told journalists yesteday in Ilorin, the capital city.

"It is part of the things to ameliorate the suffering of the people which we truly appreciate.

We appreciate the gesture.

was N1.145 billion, while for Yola Disco it was N541.88 million.

In the same vein, Kano electricity Plc over-billed its customers to the tune of N196.9 million, according to the NERC document.

NERC ordered the Discos to refund the customers in full and to ensure compliance in the future, before imposing

a 10 per cent fine on the utilities.

For Eko Disco, for instance, just like other power distributors, the commission said that to forestall further non-compliance, a deduction of N1,413,766,176 which is equivalent to 10 per cent of the Naira value of the total over-billing for the period January – September 2023 circle shall

be applied to its OPEX over a rolling 12-month period during the next tariff review.

“The public may recall that in 2020, the commission issued the order on capping of estimated bills (Order No: NERC/197/2020) and subsequently issued monthly energy caps which aimed to align the estimated bills for

unmetered customers with the measured consumption of metered customers on the same supply feeder.

“A review of the Discos’ billing of unmetered customers for 2023 has revealed non-compliance with the monthly energy caps issued by the commission,” NERC stated in the statement.

Otti Moves to Open Abia North for Economic Growth, Flags-off 67.6km Umuahia-Uzuakoli- Ohafia Road Project Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has commenced the reconstruction of the long-neglected but strategic Umuahia-Uzuakoli- Akara-Ohafia Road, signalling his intention to stimulate the economy of the northern part of Abia.

Much of economic activities are concentrated in Aba, the commercial hub and to a lesser degree in Umuahia the capital city. But Otti has seen the need to bring Abia North into the economic growth mix by rebuilding the 67.6km road linking the central and northern zones of the state.

The strategic road running from the capital city to Abia North senatorial zone traverses four local governments - Umuahia North, Bende, Isuikwuato and Ohafia - and has never been reconstructed since the end of the second republic.

Otti said that time has come to recover the lost grounds in infrastructure development after decades of neglect by past governments.

At the three places - Umuahia, Akara and Abiriba - where flag-off ceremonies were performed, crowds of people gathered to express their happiness over the new turn of events.

The Abia governor explained that he split the stretch of road into three sections and handed each portion to a different construction firm so that by working simultaneously the project would be completed on schedule.

From Umuahia end to Uzuakoli, which is about 22.6km would be done by Craneburg with Ferotex Construction Company working on 22.5km Isuikwuato to Abiriba section while China Civil Engineering Construction Company(CCECC) got the 22.5km Abiriba to Ohafia portion.

Otti reiterated that "we are committed to our promise to fix Abia economy" in order to wipe away our

tears of several decades shed due to dilapidated physical infrastructure.

He made it clear to the contractors that he would like the road project to be ready in 12 months as against the contract duration of 18 months, adding that the road would be dualised.

Alluding to the economic importance of reconstructing the road which leads to the food belt of the state, Otti stated that he was desirous of giving Abians motorable roads across the state.

This, he said, would make it easy to evacuate farm produce from the hinterlands to the urban areas thereby boosting the rural economy.

AfCFTA: Envoys Harp on Value Addition to Africa’s Natural Resources as Key to Economic Development Oluchi Chibuzor Envoys of Ghana, Egypt, Rwanda, and others have stressed that value addition to raw materials is key to economic development of the continent and attainment of the African Continent Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) goals.

They also urged international partners to consider setting up factories for manufacturing in Africa rather than buying raw materials only to help reduce unemployment of young people in the continent.

Speaking in Lagos yesterday at the launch of Ecofairs Lagos 2024, with the theme, 'Economic Potential of AFCFTA on Commerce and Trade

in Africa', the Consul-General of Ghana to Lagos, Ms. Samata Bukari, said that African countries must go beyond selling their raw material to adding value to them.

Bukari also stressed the need for cooperation, understanding and sharing of best practices among African countries to benefit more from the trade pact.

According to her, “with AfFCTA, we are not indicating that Africa should trade only with Africans but where there are comparative advantages in Africa, why will you not take that advantage?

“Eliminating barriers of trades around African countries will have a very big

population that would go on to bring employment to our teeming youths.

“We must add value to our natural resources before we attempt to sell them out. So our international friends should cut the cost of products by establishing factories and industries here to help us reduce unemployment for our youths.”

The Chief Executive Officer of Ecofairs, Mr. Sylvester Ejarkaminor , said that the fair, which would be held from September 6 to 15, 2024, is a business initiative of ECOWAS and friendly countries in collaboration with the Lagos State Government.

Ejarkaminor said: “Ecofairs has come to benefit all Nigerians at different

levels; this is the first time I believe that we will be having day and night fairs in the country. I found out that so many parts of Lagos don't sleep but they are not doing business and just playing about.”

On his part, the Commercial First Secretary and Head of the Economic and Commercial Office of Egypt, Mr. Ami Altantawy, stressed the need for his country and Nigeria to work together.

Altanrawy expressed his belief that Nigeria is a major gate for West Africa, adding that both countries could work together and maximise the volume of trade and investments to achieve mutual interests and benefits to Egypt and Nigeria.

Law Firm Faults EFCC on Role in Contract Agreement with Ikomi A legal firm, Alpha-Harris Solicitors has faulted the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over what it regards as the anti corruption agency’s 'ignoble role' in the contract agreement between its client and Alausa Power Limited.

The EFCC had recently in some national publications, the social

media and its website, declared Mr. Owumi Ikomi wanted, citing allegations of ‘crime of internet fraud, impersonation and obtaining money under false pretenses’.The agreement was for the rental and deployment of three units 1MW Power Plant at Ikeja Mall under a Power Purchase Agreement between Alausa Power

Limited and Ikeja Mall.

Convinced that both the EFCC personnel and Alausa Power Limited, are deliberately dishing out falsehood calculated to purposely embarrass and destroy the hard earned reputation of its client, Alpha-Harris Solicitors explained: “In reaction to these vexation and

scandalous publications by the EFCC, our firm has taken up the challenge by filing relevant court processes to set aside the scandalous and defamatory publications. The processes are currently pending before the Lagos State High Court, Ikeja Division.

“On realising that the team of the

EFCC officials are only concerned with pursuing debt recovery for the personal interest of Alausa Power Limited, we approached the High Court of Lagos State in suit No. ID/15471MFHR/2023 Owumi Ikom & 2Ors Vs. EFCC and Alausa Power Limited & Others seeking declaratory reliefs

and injunction restraining EFCC from further harassment arrest and/or detention of our Client regarding the rental Agreement between Alausa Power and us,” Alpha-Harris Solicitors said in a statement and full page advert editorials in some national daily newspapers.

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NACCIMA QUARTERLY COUNCIL MEETING… L-R: Billionaire industrialist, Ide John Udeagbala; Obi of Onitsha, His Majesty Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe and National President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Dele Kelvin Oye, at the Quarterly Council Meeting of the association held in Abuja… recently

Bandits Threatening to Attack Me, Katsina Governor Cries Out Vows to roll out more security measures Francis Sardauna in Katsina Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, yesterday, revealed that rampaging bandits terrorising some parts of the state were threatening to attack him.

The governor, who disclosed this during an expanded emergency security council meeting at the

Government House, Katsina, said the bandits’ threat was based on security reports.

The security meeting which had in attendance the heads of security agencies, traditional and religious leaders, top government officials and members of the business community, was to find remedies to the security and economic challenges in the state.

Radda, who spoke in Hausa, said: “Based on security reports that we are receiving, I am among those that the bandits are thinking of attacking, but that doesn't muddle me because God is with us, and He will protect us.”

He lamented that the bandits have now adopted the use of reinforcement from neighbouring states to launch onslaughts and kidnap innocent

citizens, regardless of their socioeconomic status in communities across the state.

The governor explained that the bandits were abducting the rural dwellers who “hardly feed themselves” because his government and security agencies had deposed their informants from communities.

Radda said: “They (bandits) are

Ondo NMA Gives Aiyedatiwa 7-day Ultimatum Over Unpaid Allowance Says 150 Doctors at UNIMED teaching hospital reduced to 22 Fidelis David in Akure The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Ondo State chapter has given the state government a seven-day ultimatum to implement the approved hazard allowance and address other critical challenges facing the state's health sector.

This union in its communique

issued at the end of its ordinary general meeting held yesterday, in Akure, explained that failure to pay its members the hazard allowance, low employment entry point and poor salary structure compare to other neighbouring states has been attitude of the state government.

The communique which was signed by the State Chairman, Dr. Omosehin

Adeyemi-Osowe and the State Secretary, Dr. Adeayo Omotehinse, Ondo NMA, noted with concern the continuous shortage of manpower and modern medical equipment at various State hospitals.

Adeyemi-Osowe who read the communique, lamented that doctors in the state were still earning ridiculous N5,000 as hazard allowance, stressing

that there were only 22 resident doctors at UNIMED Teaching Hospital compared to the previous figure of 150 resident doctors before.

He said the decaying condition of the state health sector, had forced many doctors out of the state service while new ones are not interested in working with the Ondo State government.

Plateau Varsity, Polytechnic Get New VC, Rector Al-Muhibbah Open University begins academic session with 14 courses Seriki Adinoyi in Jos and Kuni Tyessi in Abuja Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has appointed a former Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Shedrack Best, as the new Vice Chancellor of the state university in the Bokkos.

The Governor also approved the appointment of Dr. Clement Chirman as the new Rector of the state polytechnic.

This was just as the management of Al-Muhibbah Open University,

announced the commencement of academic programmes by the institution for the 2023/ 2024 session.

The appointments by Mutfwang, which came a day after their immediate predecessors were sacked, were contained in a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Samuel Jatau.

It noted that the governor also appointed three new heads for other state-owned tertiary institutions.

The statement reads: “His Excellency, the Executive Governor

Caleb Mutfwang has approved the appointment of the following heads of tertiary institutions in the state. They are Professor Shedrack Best, Vice Chancellor, Plateau State University, Bokkos; Dr. Clement Chirman, Rector, Plateau State Polytechnic, Barkin Ladi; Associate Professor Lazarus Maigoro, Provost, College of Education, Gindiri; Dr. Jonathan Bulus, Provost, College of Health Technology, Zawan; and Dr. Markus Avong, Provost, College of Health Technology, Pankshin.”

Urging the new appointees to

swing into action by looking into the relationship between the management and staff as well as the sources of income and expenditure of the schools to reposition them for effective service delivery, the statement added that all the appointments were with immediate effect.

The governor had, the previous day sacked the former VC of the University, Professor Bernard Matur, and heads of other state-own institutions. The governor also approved the dissolution of the Governing Council of the university with immediate effect.

Pre-ordering of Samsung Galaxy AI Ongoing at Gloworld Gloworld shops across the country have been a beehive of activities since the pre-ordering of the much sought-after Samsung Galaxy S24 AI smartphone commenced.

New and old Glo customers have been trooping to the sales outlets to take advantage of the rare opportunity, while those who had earlier pre-ordered the phones have started receiving them.

Digital solutions company,

Globacom, and world’s leading manufacturers of electronic devices, Samsung, recently entered into an exclusive partnership, which allows Glo subscribers to own the Galaxy S24 AI smartphones. Under the partnership subscribers who purchase any of the Galaxy S24 series will get up to 18GB data bonus from Glo. The preordering exercise, which will end on February 13, gives phone lovers who wish to purchase the

device exclusive opportunity to pick different models of the phone, including S24 Ultra, the highest and most expensive of the series, followed by the S24+ and then the S24. The key differentiating factors amongst the models are the processor and storage space.

The S24 AI device is capable of giving customers a unique experience due to its artificial intelligence. It comes with different functionalities

including Circle to Search, which brings instant result when the home icon is pressed and anything on the screen, (images, video or text) is circled, Live Translate through which the Galaxy AI-powered device makes bilingual calls seamless, very perfect for stress-free conversations and also Advanced Camera Experience with the Photo Assist, a new powerful AI editing tool with studio-quality features.

now kidnapping the villagers to create the impression that the successes recorded by my government in the ongoing fight against their nefarious activities was a delusion.”

He, however, said the threats by the hoodlums would not deter his administration from adopting more revolving security strategies to tackle banditry and other security challenges in the state.

He therefore urged traditional and religious leaders to encourage their subjects in their respective communities to adopt self-defence mechanisms in order to defend themselves against the criminal elements.

On hike in prices of food commodities, Radda said the state government will inaugurate a taskforce to implement stringent government's measures to end hoarding and bulk purpose of foodstuffs in the state.

He said that the government was aware of the daily rise in prices of essential food commodities, which is subjecting Nigerians to untold hardship.

Radda attributed the daily hike in prices of foodstuffs to mass export of commodities from Nigeria to Niger Republic, Mali and other neighbouring countries, warning that such actions would be tackled by the government.

Kenya Airways to Commence Daily Flight to Nigeria Kasim Sumaina in Abuja The Kenya Government has disclosed plans to commence daily flights to Nigeria as part of its visa free entry policy introduced late last year aimed at opening up Kenya to the world, The acting Kenya High Commissioner to Nigeria, Samuel Mogere, hinted that the present government in Kenya is determined to unite Africa and part of the process is to ensure that Nigerians can travel easily and on a daily basis to Kenya without stress.

He noted that as part of the

initiative aimed at opening up Kenya to the world, the Kenya Airways will commence daily flights to Nigeria.

Mogere, made the disclosure on the sidelines at the Magical Kenya Roadshow in Abuja He further said that the Kenya Roadmap 2024 is aimed at implementing the presidential agenda which is to build one Africa and one people.

According to him, "The Kenya government has actually opened visa free entry to Kenya and as announced last year, we have started operating since January.

Tinubu Felicitates Emeka Offor on His 65th Birthday Mourns entrepreneur, Marion Johnson Deji Elumoye in Abuja President Bola Tinubu has congratulated renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist, Sir Emeka Offor, on his 65th birthday.

Sir Offor is the former chairman of Erhc Energy Inc., the Chief Executive of Chrome Group, one of the leading West African oil and gas conglomerates, and the founder of the Sir Emeka Offor Foundation.

The President, in a release issued yesterday by his Media Adviser, Ajuri Ngelale, commended the business leader for his humanitarian interventions and pursuit of important causes, particularly his efforts to eradicate polio in Nigeria through his foundation.

Tinubu also wished Offor many happy returns.

Also, Tinubu yesterday, sent condolences to the Mosanya Johnson family over the demise of an entrepreneur and humanitarian, Mrs. Marion Sheila Johnson.

Johnson and her hubby founded Nigerian Cleaning Services (NCS) in Lagos, reputed to be the first professional cleaning services in Nigeria, in 1957.

The President, in a release by Ngelale, mourned the entrepreneur and acknowledged her pioneering contributions to facility management systems in Nigeria.

Tinubu prayed God Almighty to grant the deceased eternal rest and her family the fortitude to bear the loss.

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FEBRUARY 10, 2023 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INSIGHT

Waiting for the Cup...

A Gruesome Murder and a Gutless Country

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omething terrible happened Wednesday, September 27, 2023. On that day, in Jos, the capital of Plateau State, a state that has ȱ ȱ Ĵ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱşŖ ǰȱ ȱ young man, Fwinbe Gofwan, set about his usual business. He owned a car, which he used to make rounds rather than yield to the depression that is the staple of unemployment in Nigeria. He never made it through the day, though. Right in the glare of the midday sun, which bore down with relentless intensity, Fwinbe was accused of stealing the car he actually owned. There and then, one of Nigeria’s hastily constituted mob courts, made up of some of Nigeria’s most vicious criminals, tried him. There was no Christ there to ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱę ȱ ǰȱ so rather than drop their stones one by one and leave like the accusers of the biblical woman caught in the act of adultery, the stones rained down on Fwinbe instead. The mob court only leashed their stones and bloodlust when they felt the life drained out of Fwinbe.

In the immediate aftermath of Fwinbe’s death, shock coursed through all who knew him: his schoolmates at the University of Jos and the College of St. Joseph, Vom, his friends and family in Jos and beyond, and even those who knew him only in death.

As emotions dictate when a wound is still fresh and raw, the authorities promised to bring his killers to book. More than four months later, the investigation risks running the futile race of similar investigations in Nigeria, which collectively tell the story of a country where there is no justice.

There is no justice in Nigeria. If there was, Fwinbe’s killers would have been brought to book; his heartbroken family would have received some respite, and countless Nigerians, wounded by his agonizing death, would have been soothed. But there is no justice here, and it is the authorities that are to blame.

In every country where the law is worth its letter, and law enforcement worth its weight in gold, every single citizen or visitor knows that eyes of the law are always watching, not in the suffocating kind of surveillance that smothers privacy and sets off a firestorm of fear and repression, but in an awareness that holds to account offenders and would-be offenders.

In such a country, crime prevention is proactive and criminals run only so far before they are nabbed. But in Nigeria, it appears the law is not only blind but crippled — the handiwork of those who heinously place themselves above the law.

In May 2022, a seemingly innocuous audio recording on Whatsapp in the Shehu Shagari College of Education in Sokoto set off an inferno.

By the time the flames were doused, 22-year-old Deborah Samuel, accused of blaspheming religion had been burnt beyond recognition. While alarm bells chimed across the country, Deborah’s killers found defenders in some highly placed religious leaders. Until this day, the perpetrators of the heinous crime have not been duly punished.

Crime is infectious. Once a crime is successful somewhere, it is only a matter of time before it is repeated elsewhere with chilling eff iciency.

Despite the conspicuous presence of regular courts in Nigeria, mob courts still thrive and with the swiftness and ruthlessness of their proceedings and punishment, they indict Nigeria’s regular courts.

Kene Obiezu, keneobiezu@gmail.com

Witch-Hunting in Zimbabwe

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he Advocacy for Alleged Witches urges the government of Zimbabwe to adopt a proactive approach to witchcraft accusations and witch persecution in the country. Recent cases of witch-hunting in the region have this directive necessary. On February 6, 2024, a local newspaper reported that the police were looking for a 25-year-old man, Takudzwa Mugariri. Mugariri allegedly murdered a grandmother, Easter Marozva, şŚǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ used a log of wood to beat her to death and then burnt her clothes.

In a related development, the police have arrested a 23-year-old man, Tinevimbo Nyika, for murder. The police said that Nyika accused the father of witchcraft. He assaulted the father with a rod, pierced the father’s stomach, and drew out his intestines, killing him on the spot. In May last year, police in Hwedza launched a manhunt for a 49-year-old man, Evaristo Magaisa, for allegedly killing the mother after accusing her of bewitching and killing the father. The report stated that the suspect approached the mother, “who was clearing a path to a nearby river where she

T H E SAT U R DAY N E W S PA P E R EDITOR OBINNA CHIMA 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 OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

fetches water. He then accused her of using witchcraft to kill his father in 2017 before severely assaulting her with an unknown object”. In another case, a 45-year-old man has murdered the parents over claims that they were witches.

There have been other cases of brutal attack and murder of suspected witches in Zimbabwe. In most cases, the authorities used a reactive approach in addressing the problem. The police intervened after the harm had been done, after the suspected witch had been killed. The police launched a manhunt for perpetrators who might never be arrested or prosecuted.

The government of Zimbabwe needs to change this approach because it is ineffective. As the cases have illustrated, witchcraft accusation is a form of death sentence. A reactive approach is a form of ‘medicine after death’. While it is pertinent to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice, the government should take measures to prevent allegations of witchcraft. The government should identify communities where witchcraft accusations are pervasive and liaise with chiefs and other leaders to educate and enlighten the people.

Zimbabwean authorities should carry out a door-to-door public health education program in these places and inform people that nobody causes diseases or kills another person through magical means. That witches do not fly around in baskets at night, as popularly believed. The authorities should tell Zimbabweans that witchcraft is a form of superstition, a notion based on fear and ignorance.

Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged Witches which aims to end witch hunting in Africa in 2030

Raising the Bar on Research T H I S DAY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, EMMANUEL EFENI DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

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here is research that suggests Viagra may help to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. It might allow some men to remember the pleasures of their youth and help them to revisit those days.

It’s pleasing to see such uplifting research in good hands.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia

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NEWS

DEAL SEALED… L-R: Director of Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Department, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Mrs. Ngozi Nwatarali; Director, Corps Welfare and Health Services, Mr. Ayodele Omotade; Executive Director, Retail and Digital Business, Wema Bank, Tunde Mabawonku; Divisional Head, Retail and SME, Ayodele Olojede, and Regional Manager, Abuja, Mr. Chioma Onuaguluchi, at the Wema Bank MoU signing ceremony with the NYSC - ALAT Accelerator Programme, in Abuja...recently

Sacked Plateau PDP Lawmakers Return to Court, Seek Reinstatement Seriki Adinoyi in Jos The 16 lawmakers of the Plateau State House of Assembly on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who were sacked by the Court of Appeal in November 2023, have approached the same court, seeking to set aside its earlier judgement that nullified their elections.

The Appeal Court had nullified the election of all the PDP lawmakers in the State Assembly on the ground that their party lacked the structure to sponsor candidates in the election.

However, the sacked legislators have insisted that they are still members of the House following the Supreme Court’s judgement

affirming the election of Governor Caleb Mutfwang, whose case was also nullified at the Court of Appeal on the same ground.

The Supreme Court had said in its ruling that PDP in Plateau has a structure contrary to the claim by the Appeal Court. The lawmakers believed that the Supreme Court’s judgement has vindicated them.

The lawmakers, including Bala Fwanje Ndat and Datugun Paul Naankot, among others, in their motion on notice, with suit No: CA/J/33M/2024 and CA/J/31/M/2024 said pursuant to order 6 rules 1 of the Court of Appeal, 2021, they should be reinstated into the Assembly.

This was part of their reliefs

Experts Advise Nigerians to Embrace Prosperity through Savings, Investments Dike Onwuamaeze The Chief Executive Officer of Cedrus Group Africa (CGA), Mr. Olubusayo Adeniyi, has advised Nigerians to embrace the culture of saving and investment in order to escape the poverty trap and migrate to prosperity.

The Cedrus group is a Lagos-based Pan-African financial and investment institution.

Adeniyi gave this advice recently during the unveiling of the group’s economic outlook titled: '2023-Rearview, A Glimpse Into 2024'.

He said: “The essence of what we are doing is to move people from being poor to being rich. So, we first need to disabuse people’s mind of whatever error they have been carrying so that they will have right mindset toward savings and investment.

“Every fruit has elements of seed and bread. Sow your seed and do not eat it along with the bread. Remove your savings before spending. Prepare for your future with investments because it will always payoff.”

Speaking in the same vein, the Technical Analyst of CGA, Ms. Oluwafisayomi Toyo, said that the mentality of spending one's income before saving and investing would only perpetuate poverty in an individual’s life.

Toyo said that investment is very essential and remains the most effective way for the common man to become prosperous.

She, therefore, advised Nigerians to move their money from savings accounts to investments in equities, fixed income, real estate market etc. where it would yield more returns for them.

“The little you have saved should not remain in the bank.

Rather, it should be turned into investment in various asset classes that will help them to manage the economic crises.

“Last year the equity market returned 45 per cent. This showed that there is a lot of value in the market. Positive returns on companies will drive the market further and their prices upward while some of them will issue dividends that will be delightful to investors.

“Doing nothing is the challenge. If you have money, do not put it in the bank; but you must intentionally and consciously invest in quality assets.

“It is a poverty mentality to be fixated with meeting one's needs before saving and investing. The wealth mentality is saving for investment first before personal expenses,” she said.

presented by their counsel, Garba Paul, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, who argued that both the election tribunal and the Court of Appeal lacked jurisdiction over the subject matter.

The sacked legislators said their ground as contained in the motions was predicated upon the fact that “the judgement of the Court delivered

on the 24th day of November 2023, is a nullity.”

They are seeking, “An order setting aside the decision of this Honourable court in appeal No. CA/J/EP/PL/ SHA/62/2023, Dagogot Karyt Owen & Anor Vs Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), & Ors on 24th November 2023, per E.O Williams-Dawodu, Abdul-Azez

Waziri and E.O Abang, JCA.” According to them, the Supreme Court judgement that validated the nomination and sponsorship of Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, suffices that the Court of Appeal should set aside its earlier judgement.

The lawmakers had attempted to return to the House of Assembly

but were prevented by the Police, a development that nearly triggered a crisis in the state.

Meanwhile, members of the APC who are beneficiaries of the Court of Appeal judgement are yet to be sworn in by the Speaker of the Assembly, Gabriel Dewan, who claimed there were conflicting court orders on the matter.

Persons with Disabilities Lament Current Economic Hardship

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

Forum of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in Edo State has called on the government at all levels to address their plight following the removal of fuel subsidy, stressing the need for inclusive and sustainable programmes and policies to mitigate the impact of fuel subsidy removal.

Convener, Edo Disability Forum (EDF), Melody Omosah, made the call in Benin City, at a press briefing with the theme, 'Mitigating the impact of fuel subsidy removal on persons with

Disabilities: The Need for Inclusive and Functional Social Protection Mechanism'.

Omosah, who is also the Executive Director, Network for the Advancement of People with Visible Disability (NAPVID) lamented the adverse impact of the removal of fuel subsidy policy on Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), saying it is particularly severe, as persons with disabilities grapple with heightened vulnerability in the absence of adequate social protection mechanisms.

He said the forum was drawing the attention of the government of Edo

State to the predicament of PWDs and to urge policy makers, stakeholders and the public to rally behind the course as well as take collective action to ensure that no one is left behind in the wake of these changes.

Omosah, further noted that PWDs are three times more disadvantaged and disproportionately affected by the fuel subsidy removal, adding that fuel subsidy removal is fostering inequality and inequity against PWDs and limiting their inclusivity and opportunities.

"It is no longer news that the recent removal of fuel subsidy by

the federal government has triggered unprecedented surge in the cost of living, affecting the lives and livelihoods of Nigerians.

“What may be news is that the adverse impact of this policy on Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) is particularly severe, as they grapple with heightened vulnerability in the absence of adequate social protection mechanisms.

"The pronouncement by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu immediately resulted in the astronomical hike in the amount of PMS or fuel and

Lagos Rehabilitation Committee Begins Renovation of Dilapidated Tolu School Complex Wale Igbintade The Special Committee on Rehabilitation of Public Schools (SCRPS) in Lagos has embarked on renovation of Tolu School complex in Ajegunle-Ajeromi Local Council to address the insecurity and infrastructure deficit at the institution.

The 43 years old complex established by the Lateef Jakande administration has been in a state of disrepair, owing to over population and neglect.

Addressing the media, SCRPS Chairman, Hakeem Smith, said the intervention would restore infrastructure deficiency in the complex and make it world-class.

According to him, during several reconnaissance and assessment visits, officials discovered issues of flooding within the entire complex, security challenge in form of break-ins, and high student-classroom ratio.

To make Tolu complex a stateof-the-art education city, he said SCRPS will construct 13 additional

15/18 classroom blocks; renovate dilapidated blocks, construct a perimeter fence and gate houses, and new inner roads and drainages.

Smith said the government will also rehabilitate existing access roads, build a health centre, fire service station, and multi-purpose sports complex.

He stated that sometime in 2022, following the instructions of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, a comprehensive assessment was carried out, which revealed the state of disrepair of most of the

school blocks and the classroom inadequacy in the complex.

He said for efficient management, supervision and to ensure timely delivery, the project was divided into six lots to make it easier to get project done being that most schools within the complex will be in session as at the time work starts Smith further disclosed that arrangements have been made to assuage issues where students would need to be temporarily relocated within the school complex.

Twins Tourism to Stage Ibadan Travel Expo 2024 Initiators of Twins Tourism, Ambassadors Taiwo and Kehinde Oguntoye are set to stage the maiden edition of Ibadan Travel and Tourism Expo (ITTE) 2024 at the ancient city of Ibadan, Oyo State.

The Ibadan Travel and Tourism Expo scheduled for April 22 and 23 will also feature as the 10 years anniversary of quality tourism broadcasting of their popular weekly travel and tourism magazine radio show known as “Travel with the

Twins”.

According to a statement by the Oguntoyes, “ITTE 2024 is a two-day international travel roadshow platform that aims to drive the sustainable tourism sector by bringing together buyers, consumers, airlines, travel techs, tourism/travel service providers, hospitality value chain, influencers and the media to review, network and discuss sustainable tourism development and trade in the travel industry."

The Ibadan-born tourism twins

which are the first twins in the world to be honoured by the world busiest and most travelled international airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, USA further stated that “The Ibadan Travel and Tourism Expo is set to unplugging the largest city in Sub-Sahara Africa for tourism kickstart and opening up the abundance of tourism opportunities to the untapped markets in Oyo State and South Western Nigeria for and to international and domestic buyers

and sellers”.

ITTE 2024 with the theme 'Tourism Kickstart: Maximising Tourism Opportunities for Sustainable Development in Nigeria' is expected to welcome about 3,000 attendees over two days and will feature activities ranging from The Tourism Roundtable, The Premier Tourism Awards/ Dinner, 10 Years Anniversary of ‘Travel with the Twins’ Radio Show, Young Professional Forum, Fam City Tou,r among others.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 10, 2024 • T H I S D AY

17

18

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 10, 2024

Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394 Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Tobi Bakre: Nigerians’ Creativity Now Being Recognised Globally Nigerian actor and multi-talented personality, Tobi Bakre, catapulted to stardom following his impressive run as a finalist on the Big Brother Naija (Season 3) reality TV show in 2018. Since then, he has worked in various areas of the entertainment industry and making waves as an actor with several blockbuster productions. In an exclusive interview with Tosin Clegg, Tobi delves into his journey to fame, his numerous award wins, strategies for staying relevant in the industry, and much more

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ow does the Berlinale Talents selection impact your career, and what are you looking forward to the most in this talent development program?

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How do you choose roles, and what aspects of a script or character appeal to you the most when deciding to take on a project?

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Beauty Tukura: Growing Up Was Humbling Because I Experienced Different Cultures Meet Beauty Tukura, a woman of many talents and endeavours. Beauty is a graduate of law, and the 43rd Miss Nigeria. She is an entrepreneur, and the founder of the Beauty Tukura Foundation. Beauty is also a multi-brand influencer who leverages her platform to partner with brands, as well as inspire others. Beauty tells Ferdinand Ekechukwu that she is keen on making an impact across various spheres of life

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ow was the past year for you and what would you remember it for? /DVW \HDU ZDVQ·W WKH best of many but it was an enlightening year for PH SHUVRQDOO\ EHFDXVH LW WDXJKW PH D ORW DERXW OLIH DQG LWV H[SHULHQFHV , ZRXOG UHPHPEHU LW DV WKH \HDU RI VHOI GLVFRYHU\ Were there plans that fell short of your expectations?

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Tell us a bit about your childhood and what growing up was like. What did you want to be when you were younger?

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As the 43rd Miss Nigeria, you have made a name via pageantry. What spurred you into it in the first place?

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Which of your past experiences would you say was the toughest; that tested your abilities?

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What three words would you say best describe you?

'HWHUPLQHG DPELWLRXV DQG JUDWHIXO How would you describe your personal style?

0\ VW\OH LV FRPIRUWDEOH DQG IXQ ZLWK D VSULQNOH RI extra. I always try to look my best while maintaining FRPIRUW KDYLQJ IXQ ZKLOH DW LW DQG LQWURGXFLQJ VRPHWKLQJ LQWR WKH ORRN WKDW PDNHV PH VWDQG RXW :K\ EOHQG LQ ZKHQ \RX ZHUH PDGH WR VWDQG RXW" Read full interview online - www.thisdaylive.com

19

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 10, 2024

PEOPLE

Bisi Olatilo: How My School Principal Encouraged Me to Become a Broadcaster The Chairman and CEO of Biscon Communications, Bisi Olatilo, who has 50 years on the grind, is a household name in Nigeria’s broadcasting fold. He is no doubt a man of many firsts, a yardstick, and a reference point. In this interview, he speaks on his journey, 25 years of The Bisi Olatilo Show, the state of the broadcasting industry, guiding principles, his age-long convictions, and succession plan. Adedayo Adejobi brings the excerpts in the world. The same goes for broadcasting because we go through the best in terms of training. After all, the broadcasting authorities in Nigeria don’t joke with that. They take their business and guard it jealously and they give it prime attention, so with that, we can operate comparatively. We are the best everywhere.’’

In a word of admonition to the government, he said, “Honestly, I think the federal government is dragging its feet too much; there have been all kinds of talks about taking us from the analogue to the digital.’’

The Journey

H

is interest in broadcasting dates back to his secondary school days at Kiriji Memorial College, Igbajo, his hometown in Osun State, Southwest Nigeria, between 1967 and 1971. ‘’My principal of blessed memory, D.K Olagunju, saw that talent in me, and he kept encouraging me. Because I was very stubborn, he might have punished me publicly for one offense or another, but he still gave me the platform to read the news at the assembly because I was the news gatherer and newsreader for the school and he liked my diction. I loved listening to the radio, and the only names that kept coming up at that time were Ikenna Nduaguba for news and Ishola Folorunsho for radio commentaries—both of blessed memories.’

Alongside his early interest in broadcasting, Bisi also developed an interest in football and was the goalkeeper for his college in all the matches he played. He was so good at the goalpost that his late principal would hold up a match for his sake until he finished his commentaries.

What started as an interest has since blossomed and found expression after he left school and went off to Radio Oyo, where his professional journey in broadcasting started. There, he read the news and presented programmes for promotion and production.

His journey in radio took a firmer grip and a national appeal when he joined Voice of Nigeria in 1979 and moved on to Radio Nigeria. He got into television even though NTA didn’t employ him, yet he produced and anchored his first program, Night Train. From then on, his familiarity with TV started, and that is why the idea of the “Bisi Olatilo” show began.

Olatilo had a voice made for radio and a face made for television. He was the toast of major government and state functions and corporate events. His plump, bright, and meaty face, with a prominent nose, fully thick hair, thin lips, and beady eyes. He is chunky with a glistening face and a good body to carry.

In his trademark bow hat, signature beard, shirt sleeves, and suspenders, he slouched in a chair on his elbows and peered over a desk at his guests. His voice, a raspy rumble, delivered bursts of irreverence and humour, but his questions were usually brief and friendly.

Mentored by two Late broadcasting veterans, Ikenna Nduaguba and Isola Folorunsho, Olatilo’s oratorical power, and gift of the gab found expression. Thereon, he presented radio programmes, read the news for 22 years, and anchored major state functions as a master of ceremonies.

The topics were anything: politics, crime, religion, sports, business, and news events with endless players and analysts. He is known to plumb his subjects deeply and is not one to be accused by critics of pandering to the sensational.

Owing to his multi-lingual prowess, one sees him speak three prominent Nigerian languages.

He started WAZOBIA, a request show that involved him speaking these three languages and pidgin. In no time, he became the toast of listeners across Nigeria.

Aside from the late professionals who were great influences, High Chief Aleogho Raymond Dokpesi, the late founder of Daar Communications and owner of AIT and Ray Power, remains an inspiration to the broadcaster.

How He Met His Wife With the rare gift and power of language, the universe helped him spot the wife of his youth,

Life Experience Experiencing one’s entire office complex burn to ashes on two separate occasions in the space of seven years can be devastating. But, like a phoenix, Olatilo rose and has continually flourished.

In 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic, fighting for his life, the least news he was expecting to see on the internet was the purported news of his own death. This was indeed painful, but he took it in good strides and has since experienced a clean bill of health.

At the heart of his life’s journey and many travails, his wife has been rock-solid by his side. In his words, ‘’My wife whom I have been married to for 43 years, is the champion of the many fights. I am eternally grateful to my wife and Pastor Wole Oladiyun for standing by me through these times’’

Olatilo

On Business Succession I’m blessed with five children and five grandchildren—three girls and two boys—and the eldest of my grandchildren is 15 years old. I hope my children come back to help me here soon.

The Olatilo’s family

to whom he has been married for 43 years and blessed with five children and five grandchildren.

These were his accounts of the chance meeting, as narrated by a teary-eyed broadcaster. “I had gone on a visit with a friend to one of his friends, and you know, television is very different from radio. Radio hides your identity, and all you know is the voice. So, when she heard my name, she was swept off her feet. So, instead of me following up, she followed up.’’

On the BOS Show at 25 His one-hour flagship weekly television programme became so popular with over 75 million views, so much so, that he moved forward to helping to build people’s image, especially as governors and other people across different walks of life. This he made a resounding success of.

Speaking on his works, which focused primarily on the wonders of broadcasting, and his passion which has garnered a cult following by Nigeria’s high and mighty, ‘The Bisi Olatilo show’s awesome archive of iconic events parade the coverage of convocations of universities, coronation of traditional rulers, inauguration of state governors in Nigeria, the inauguration of Nigerian presidents and president Barrack Obama of America. The BOS archive is replete with very exciting pan

and beyond-Nigeria super coverages of high-society weddings, birthday parties, anniversaries, and awards festivals. The BOS show is the first and the best, but it still remains on the top of our game.

The broadcasting industry When asked about the current state of broadcasting in Nigeria, this was what he had to say, “the younger ones have a great job to do in not trying to mimic and sound so unprofessional and unnatural because what we have in the broadcasting rules have never changed, and they won’t change. But most of them have gone off the line, they just do what they like. It’s a global village now. We must try and aim to align with international standards in all the things that we do.

And the government itself needs to sit up so that we can be aligned with what’s happening internationally; otherwise, we will be left behind.’’

Does he think Nigerian broadcasters are competitive compared to other nations, he said, “the kind of training we had can be equated to what they say about Nigerians, the most educated immigrants

His Guiding Principles Quite a lot of his professional colleagues and friends see him as a reference point, and one thing has remained: his staying power, hard work, and undivided interest in his passion.

Olatilo is however, worried that values are fast eroding, and here is why: “In broadcasting, there’s a very popular saying that before you enter in a broadcasting environment, drop whatever problems you have, throw it behind the gate, don’t enter with it, because the slightest distraction is not good for what you do.

“If you met me here writing a script, if you drop a pin, you’ll hear the sound; that’s how quiet it has to be. Well, do we have that around here now? Most of them are doing the job as if they are being forced to do it and I say to them, in our days we developed; I mean, we just enjoy doing this job.

“I may not have been at the roaster to read the news or do anything, but because I was in the mood, I just went straight to the broadcasting house, and maybe there without not being roastered to work.’’

For Bisi Olatilo who clocked 70, a month ago, he isn’t showing signs of slowing down. Instead, these intrinsic lessons have been his guiding light, mantra, and what he has been able to do in his life, he enthused, ‘’I have learned never to contaminate my belief in God with other side attractions. If it is God, let it be God. Let the smaller gods be because they can only do negative things in your life. Be focused and think positively towards your next-door neighbour. These are things I have been able to do in my life.’’

And if you’ve ever wondered what the secret is to his strength and success, it’s simple: a clear conscience, prayers, and not getting worried.

Till his dying old age, Olatilo wants to remain focused, happy, and good to other people.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 10, 2024

INTERVIEW

‘OPay is in Nigeria to Stay, We’re Not Leaving’ Following the rumoured planned to exit Nigeria, top officers of the OPay Digital Services Limited recently held a media parley in Lagos to address the issue. The engagement also afforded the officers from OPay the opportunity to throw more light on the activities of the company which started operations in Nigeria in 2018.Top OPay officers present at the meeting were Head, Marketing and Communications, Adekunle Adeyemi; Director, Card Business, Precilia Olayemi; Director, Partnerships, Ikponmwosa Kolawole Odiase; and Head, Business Development and App Partnerships, Adekorede Adewole. Charles Ajunwa presents the excerpts:

T

he Director of Card Business, Precilia Olayemi, who gave the keynote address and presentation, outlined the products provided by OPay including the mission and vision of the company.

“We were founded in 2018, we came into Nigeria as an agent banking business, where we empower people to run the cash-in cash-out and make money to be able to add to the funds and make money to be able to take care of their families.

We were able to use this means to provide empowerment to different people; people who don’t have jobs, people who have lost their jobs, they took on the agency banking business and they were able to support their families.

“We believed that we were trusted by tens and millions of user agents and merchants and we are recognised as the most reliable financial service platform with the best user experience. For us in OPay we work for the customer from up. Every product that we release is based on our interactions with customers. So we ask customers what will make service more important, what makes service more seamless for you and they tell us and we go back to try and see how we can develop products to meet customers’ needs.

“We are driven by Mission and our Vision. Our Mission as OPay is to make financial services more inclusive through technology which is what we do today. Everything we do from the cards to apps, we use technology to run the financial services business.

“And our Vision, we aspire to be the most respected and competent financial technology company that actively creates social value.

“What do I mean by social value? Social is giving back to society, social value for us is when customers can tell us, OPay well done! I’m happy with what you have done for me. That is really more important to us; it’s more important to us than profit making. Profit making comes second. One of our core values in OPay is customer first. Every day we tell ourselves it’s the customer first. Then we can talk about profits because it’s the customer who will deliver the profits to you.”

Speaking further, she said: “We have two businesses that we run in OPay, we have the Consumer Business and we the Merchant Business. The Consumer Business is the OPay App which we all know today which individuals use. The App is meant to provide super-fast user experience. We also have different partnerships that we have with various service providers like bill payments, airtime, transfers, different services which we make open, accessible and mostly affordable to the consumer. So our partners help us make these services affordable to the customers.

“As of December 2023, we would like to say that we have successfully issued millions of OPay Verve cards (above five million) in partnership with the Verve cards scheme and we hold the standing of 33 per cent of the Verve market share in the industry today. We are widely spread across 36 states including Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and all these happened within a space of 15 months.

“The Merchant Business is all about the enterprise, the small medium businesses, the tailors, the salons, the vulcanisers, even the medium businesses. Some corporate organisations maintain their accounts with us.

“We use technology to ensure that the services we are providing such as financial accounting are seamless, reconciliation is seamless, having a view of your account on one screen not having to move from one screen to another. We also ensure that the issue of settlement is also seamless. Same day bank transactions, all these we ensure that we provide.

“Our future products are: the OPay POS which we believe is safe. We also have the OPay Business App which is where the business people use. Some even use the Consumer App, we use the Business App. And we also have Virtual accounts. Today, we have a lot of businesses who say, I’m not comfortable with introducing my account to a customer. The business person is going to generate a virtual account and use that account to provide to their customers to make their payments.

“In terms of business management like I said, we are able to give you your transactions in one view. We also have the OPay Payment Solutions whereby we are customise solutions. Today, we have partners we have done that for and one of them is Guinness. We are able to customise solutions and tailor solutions to meet your need so that your business can move forward.

“These are the OPay products we have today in the industry, we have the OPay POS, the Mobile Applications which is the App, we have the Online Payment Gateway,

L-R: Head, Business Development and App Partnerships, OPay, Adekorede Adewole; Director Partnerships, Ikponmwosa Kolawole Odiase; Director Card, Business, Precilia Olayemi; and Head, Marketing and Communications, Adekunle Adeyemi, at the OPay maiden media parley held at Marriott Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos...recently we have the business cash board, we have the virtual account and we have the Blue Payments which is where you have DSTV, electricity payments, water payments, school fees.

Like I said we are trusted by tens of millions and most of the organisations we engage with are large organisations. So for a brand like OPay to work with them means that we must have added value one way or the other, and we must have provided security.

“Today, people say OPay they are not like the traditional banks where you can walk in there and make your complaints or make your enquiries. Yes, we are able to open up 17 locations across the country that can offer customer service.

Customer engagement because we believe that the Nigerian population holds dear where a customer walks in and wants to see an individual face to face and make his case. In 2024, we believe that the population will move ahead with us, we are moving our customer service online.

“It’s something that has never been done before and we intend to do it and it will do it well. We intend to create an online customer service where the customers will have live chats, not just live chats, different activities with live customer service agents. Today, we have 500,000 customer service agents that attend to customers’ transactions. And as against just having customer service satisfaction, we also want to make sure that the services that we offer are seamless.

“We are recognised by renowned institutions, we are grateful for the awards and we don’t take it likely. In the course of 2023, we are recognised by a government agency for our contributions to financial inclusion. Like I said, we are here to bank the unbanked, to make financial services affordable. Affordable is very important because it’s not everybody that can pay the large commissions that are being charged, people want to be able to also put their monies in the banks and also be able to enjoy the services. “Another recognition which we are awarded was the recognition in Nigeria from the digital payment category and lastly, we were recognised by the Advertisers Association of Nigeria for the Consumer Choice Awards as the best network in 2023.

“We always take our customers seriously and we always like to get feedback from them.”

Security Measures

Olayemi who revealed that the Verve Cards so far released are above five million, said “No other organisation has this technology; we have designed a way whereby cards can be linked. Soft linked using technology to make payments and this is why our agents are able to sell our cards. So there is no fear that the card the agent is holding can be compromised because that card is not going into any wallets, it’s as good as a single pass. Until a customer comes, until there’s a verification, we have a verification process, we have OTPs that are backed up, even the consumer himself has to also enter details of that card onto his app to be able to link that card. Nothing can go down with that card, it’s as good as a single pass. So we take technology very seriously which is why we have been able to get the approval for the product from the regulators because we have to show them end-toend that we have put in all the security that should be put in place to ensure that the card is secured.

“So at a point where a customer activates his card then the liability shifts to the customer because we cannot control who you give your thing to which is why we use social media to tell our customers not to disclose your pin. But you know the typical Nigerian style, oh my driver go and buy fuel and you have given him your pin. You forget you have given him your pin, tomorrow you don’t change your pin, tomorrow you forget your card and one day the driver wakes

up and discovers and says Oga’s card let me go and swipe it. It happens, it happens a lot not only OPay, in banks we have seen it.

“That is why we tell our customers immediately that you compromise, go and change your pin. I think there is no security you require other than what we have put in place which we believe is the best so far.”

Integrity of Network

In his contribution, the Director, Partnerships, Ikponmwosa Kolawole Odiase, noted that the “integrity of our network is what sells us, I’m sure the complaint is about other financial institutions not really about OPay. It’s on record that during the cash crunch period OPay App came to the rescue of many. It’s very evident that we invested so much in technology compared to the traditional financial institutions which also brought us some commendations from regulators.”

He added: “Of course, there are improvements and it’s also important to note that while we have invested in technology and infrastructure we are also dependent on other relevant agents and stakeholders including the Telcos. If there are remote areas where internet connectivity is poor of course it will affect networks in the affected areas. When it comes to OPay technology and infrastructure I assure you it’s very reliable.

“It’s important to note that OPay collaborates and partners banks as regards security. That is why we are having this parley to sensitise the public about the safety of funds. We here say, your monies are not safe go and remove your monies from OPay oh! The truth of the matter is that your funds are not in OPay, what that means is we partner with banks and partnership wise we try to limit it to Tier1 banks. The banks we call the fooders because we are also particular about the safety of depositors’ funds. So the way it’s structured or incensed is that customers’ funds sit with commercial banks. The fact that you have N1 million, N500,000 in your OPay wallets those funds actually reside with a bank. So the panic should be if the banks are collapsing not if OPay is collapsing. It should be told out there that nothing happens to the funds in your wallets because they sit with the commercial banks.”

Media Partnerships

The Head, Marketing and Communications, Adekunle Adeyemi, pledged the disposition of OPay to provide information to the media.

He added: “We recognise the pivotal role of the media in shaping public opinion and disseminating information. The role of the media in building our organisation is invaluable and we truly recognise the significance of your work. The media parley not only serves as an introduction but also an opportunity for us to forge a strong and collaborative relationship with every one of us here present.

“We are dedicated to transparency, accountability and open communication and we believe that a robust partnership with the media is essential for accurately conveying our messages to the public.

“We acknowledge the power but more importantly we recognise the responsibility that comes with your individual roles and we are eager to work closely with you to share our stories, our impacts and overall achievements. In today’s dynamic media landscape, the importance of collaboration cannot be overemphasised and we understand the significance of your role in providing objective, fair and unbiased information.

“Our aim is to be a reliable source for you and ensure accurate and timely updates from us as we remain committed to our crucial societal role. As we embark on this journey together, we look forward to building on trust, mutual respect and understanding.”

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 10, 2024

21

INTERVIEW

Oji: Abia Intelligentsia Must Add Value to Otti’s Economic Roadmap Chief of Medicine and Chairman, Department of Medicine, Banner Delweb Medical Center in Sun CityWest Arizona, Boris Emeka Oji, in this interview expresses support for Abia State Governor, Alex Otti’s newly inaugurated Abia Global Economic Advisory Council, and speaks about how he, the Abia intelligentsia and members of the Zenith Environmental and Social Protection Network, an alumni association non-governmental organisations of Abia State University can add value to the deliberations of the Council. Nduka Nwosu brings the excerpts: source from the gas fields in the Ukwa axis and Rivers State with pipelines that should run directly to the new Abia Industrial Park and Aba. Just these four areas, which I have significant interest in and experience, have the potential of producing a positive tsunami effect in the development of Abia State now and in the future.

You may ask why am I sharing these ideas about now? It is because I can finally see the light in the tunnel now. The challenges have been power, security and an enabling environment which seems to have finally taken a positive step in the right direction per Governor Otti’s policy direction.

What is your take on Governor Alex Otti’s recently launched Abia Global Economic Advisory Council (AGEAC)?

I

think AGEAC as a roadmap is the boldest initiative since the creation of Abia State. If the concept of a seaport is actualised with the support of the federal government, it will be the greatest game changer in the economic development of the state. Otti’s administration is redefining statecraft, different from what Abia did in the past. The government is working and thinking outside the box. The citizens of the state for the first time in 25 years finally feel they are part of the country and have hope for the proverbial dividends of democracy. Normally the few people that had previously cornered the commonwealth of Abia State will not be happy. That is expected. From all verifiable indices, Dr. Alex Otti is doing exceptionally well for the state; he should stay focused and keep seeking divine guidance while incorporating in his policy implementation docket the recommendations of AGEAC. These efforts will start paying significant returns sooner than later. Private Nigerians will realise that the ease of doing business in Abia is better than that of Lagos State.

The truth be told: the huge internally generated revenue (IGR) that Lagos has is principally on the back of the investment of easterners as most foreign industries are exiting the former capital and Nigeria’s seat of business and commerce.

With the plan Otti has proposed, the only competitive advantage Lagos still has is the seaport. With the approval of states delving into railways, Abia can easily become the hub of business activities again. Once the companies in the country start coming down to Abia for investment, foreign direct investors, and the multinational companies already in the country will be willing to do business in the state. In Abia there are exceptionally low hanging fruits that I will throw out there.

What are these low hanging fruits?

We have the skill set to take over the large garment factories of the world from Bangladesh and China, especially with the devaluation of the naira. Such products as Polo, Hines, Michael Koss can conveniently be produced in substantial numbers as export items. The garment industry in Bangladesh and Indonesia produces clothes for all the major brands worldwide and we already have the skill set of tailors in Aba that can outbid the Bangladesh companies by inviting these clothing giants to visit Aba and give us a trial. These are huge industrial tailoring facilities; again, naira gives us an advantage here. The next low hanging fruit is the Customer Services Call Centres business. These call centres that are all over the world are currently domiciled in India. If you call Exxon Mobil to make a complaint, it is likely the person that will answer you is in India because Exxon has a contract with the Indian company to answer their customer calls as a switchboard. So many companies all over the world currently do this with India as a leader in the business. These call centres are easy to set up; with the current valuation of the naira, we can get into competitive bidding and outbid Indian companies. We can take a sizable chunk of it from India today, that we speak good English already is an advantage. Once the softwares are available in the country the companies can set off immediately. Once you get one USA Company and it does well with this new deal, the rest will be history.

Medical Transcribing Companies?

Transcribing companies yes, will be in Aba and will be transcribing for hospitals in the USA and the UK; that is exactly what it means. Anyone in medicine knows what transcription means; it is a software which saves the doctor the trouble of writing notes while attending to his patient. The transcriber who is in Nigeria with his software does the job as the doctor is speaking; instead of the doctor writing notes, the trained transcriber in Aba will be writing the notes on the chart so that the doctor or doctors can focus on their patients. It is a huge industry dominated by Indians but easy to set up.

Given the activities of Zespronet in the past with Abia and Imo State universities, and your unique exposure in the medical field, what will be your contribution to AGEAC

In elevating health related issues?

First is the creation of an enabling environment that will allow professionally qualified Abians and non-Abians that are physicians in the Diaspora to safely invest in healthcare in Abia. The watch words should be transparency, due process, and government’s ability to provide the needed land or property with certificates of occupancy for physician inves-

Why are you restating that wealthy Abians should be involved in the sustainability of quality education and academic development?

Public education is the key; all hands need to be on the deck to make it the premier source of education rather than an inferior source of education, where children of the poor educate their wards, and the private schools are for the rich. No, the reverse should be the case; public education should be such that it is well funded and standardised that sponsors for both the rich and poor should access it as the number one option for their wards.

The education system in the country is ill-positioned for the challenges of the 21st century while private education is out of the reach of most Nigerians, thus creating two parallel societies we may live to regret.

All the powerful public schools -Harvard, Columbia, Oxford, etc, depend a lot on endowment funds donated by their alumni associations, and families to make up for the difference government and tuition provide for them. This model also needs to be adopted and encouraged by the government.

Dr. Orji tors coming home to establish model and globally acceptable medical centres.

We should bear in mind that modern healthcare is expensive, but the government can encourage those willing to build world class hospitals in Aba, Umuahia, and Ohafia, by ensuring that land is available or subsidised for them with a certificate of occupancy. If there are medical machines like CT scans and MRIs being brought in, the government must have in place standard modus operandi in facilitating their clearance. For emphasis, the clearance of CT scans and MRIs and other expensive medical equipment, there should be a well-known standard modus operandi put in place by government to assist the Diaspora physicians in their clearance.

For primary and teaching hospitals to have appropriate modern equipment made available to them, the following approaches should be considered. You do not need to build new hospitals; rather the ones on the ground should be equipped and expanded as first class globally acceptable hospitals.

Each local government will need at least a hospital and a Centre of Excellence hospital easily accessible by everyone in the locality; it must have resources needed to stabilise everyone from trauma to neurological emergencies with the teaching hospitals acting as the tertiary centres. They should be able to treat trauma and accident cases such that a patient that comes in confused as an accident victim should be stabilised and then shipped within 30 minutes to a nearby Centre of Excellence hospital in the local government where CT scans or MR can be done to determine what level of care is needed to stabilise the patient and treat as needed The local hospital will have ambulances between them and the Centre of Excellence which should have capacity for an air ambulance or other expedited evacuation methods.

Continuous medical education is the key for professionalism in medicine; the government should encourage Abia citizens like me and other physicians in the Diaspora to see how they can arrange for resident physicians to rotate among themselves in offering services to the people with these centres of excellence and the teaching hospitals to also teach our local doctors the standard of care in various disciplines The government must encourage Diaspora physicians in various fields of medicine to accept dedicated rotations a few weeks per year, or quarterly in these hospitals to train our local doctors on standards of care.

Diaspora physicians should be encouraged to arrange continuous medical education with emphasis on Advance Cardiovascular life support training, continuously all the year round while government pays for some of these training programmes.

How will the Otti administration benefit from Zespronet‘s renewable energy programmes?

Abia needs a massive investment in renewable energy especially solar energy which is easy, scalable, and affordable while for the industrial sector, gas can act as an alternative energy

Beyond being your alma mater, why the emphasis on Abia State University?

The goal is to make it not just the Centre of Excellence as its name suggests but the most desirable university in Nigeria To achieve the goals elucidated in its establishment by the founding fathers, you need a trainable and supporting work force One of the easiest things to do in the university is to ensure that every Nigerian irrespective of their state of origin or even non-Nigerians can feel that they will achieve all their professional potential in Abia State University I am also happy that the administration of Otti has moved positively in this regard. That other states are applying statism in the recruitment of academic staff, is not an excuse for Abia state to do it if we must reposition the state to be the premier destination both for business and education . A university whose criteria for advances in professional development is anchored on statism rather than productive and academic excellence, is only courting mediocrity for its growth.

Can you give a brief on ZESPRONET its activities till date and how you can add value to Otti’s administration?

Environmental protection is the job of all. The south-east and Abia State are prone to serious erosion that the standard building code in the state should take this into consideration before approving a building plan for anyone: a housing estate needs proper drainage; existing ones need proper channels to the drainage system and all roads need proper drainage systems. Tree and shrub planting have been shown as the ultimate solution to prevent us from getting to the stage where erosion takes over communities and destroys land and property. For places like Isukwuato and Ndi Egoro that already have disaster zones and status attached to them, multilateral agencies should be brought in to design well accepted structural intervention programmes that will also involve relocation of indigenous communities where the need arises. During a 2015 alumni reunion, members agreed to form a non-governmental-organisation to address such issues as climate change, environmental cleanliness, and protection, as well as seek ways of being useful to each other. ZESPRONET believes a people and their way of doing things gain value when the mind is positively skewed in doing the right thing. The organisation’s mandate is to deliver the best to the people because by so doing, society gets better.

The idea is to protect the environment through constant sensitisation programmes involving the public and government on issues of global warming especially in the eastern states of Nigeria with the devastating effects of gully erosion as well as interface with them and the international community to bring global best practices to bear and not just ameliorate but reverse the trend.

The most impactful achievement of ZESPRONET till date is the building of a postgraduate hostel for the alma mater which started as Imo State University and later grew to Abia State University with the carving out of a new state.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 10, 2024

TRIBUTE

Celebrating Career Ascent of Tinuke Watti Tunde Olusunle

E

nd of year’s harmattan dust, dryness and haze seem to be evolving into harvest-time for the people of Isanlu headquarters of Yagba East local government area in Okunland, Kogi State. Good news it looks, has chosen those days, weeks and months in the last quarter of the year, to turn in generously for the community. Yes, the period is not the best of times for tillers of the land, that season when earth is granite-hard, shaming the daringness of the digger, sneering at the presumptuous hoe. But pleasant tiding, prefer this time of the year to ride the air and manifest into communal happiness. This coalesces into the characteristic festivity of yuletide for the traditional and political headquarters of Yagba people. Back in December 2021 for instance, the young but very experienced attorney, Eyitayo Ayokunle Fatogun was admitted into the venerated echelons of Senior Advocates of Nigeria,(SAN). It is the kind of coveted attainment which gladdens the hearts of a people, a community from where such a professional comes.

Year 2023 was one of twin-joys. Two relatively reticent indigenes of Isanlu were variously recognised by way of professional elevation. On Monday November 27, 2023, Tinuke Watti a very senior Director in the federal bureaucracy was lifted to the position of Permanent Secretary by Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu. As though choreographed, Alfred Olufemi Atteh an attorney was on the same day, formally inaugurated Senior Advocate of Nigeria, (SAN). Gravitation towards urban centres which offer much more opportunities than our primordial localities can provide, has ensured that generations of kinsmen and women are barely acquainted with themselves even in “intra-country diaspora.” This is as much the same for my generation as it is for generations after mine.

While this argument holds true for Atteh, it is slightly different with Watti. Her husband, Kola and I wrote the Cambridge University-moderated Higher School Certificate, (HSC) Examination together at the erstwhile School of Basic Studies, (SBS), at the Kwara State College of Technology, (Kwaratech), back in 1982. Classes in our time were not the Dugbe market type they are today where there could be as many as 500 students in one class! Hostels, cafeteria or lecture auditoriums in our season, were unmistakable converging points. Watti and I went our ways to different universities in our quests for further education. We sought job opportunities in various institutions and locations, before being reunited in the same church in Abuja, decades after.

The selection process for Permanent Secretaries in the federal civil service is a rigorous, maybe tedious as well. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo introduced reforms aimed at identifying and filtering the best of bureaucrats to drive the engine of state policy and administration. That template has been tinctured in parts by successive governments, though. Under the leadership of the incumbent Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, (HCSF), Folashade Yemi-Esan, candidates shortlisted for consideration take a written examination for starters.

There is also an information and communications technology, (ICT) proficiency test. The three-stage interrogation is capped with an oral interview. The old order where unqualified

candidates could profit from contrived assessments and sneak in by way of high scores in “Annual Performance Evaluation Reports,” (APER), has been largely set aside. The new system seeks to identify deservedly and genuinely competent candidates, as much as humanly possible.

The process which produced Tinuke Watti as Permanent Secretary began with a total of 85 applicant directors. This number was whittled down at various stages of the selection process first to 20 candidates, then 18, and finally eight.

Watti made the cut which settled for less than 10 percent of applicants. Others who survived the trimming scalpel of the rigorous process are: Ndakayo Aishetu-Gogo; Adeoye Adeleye Ayodeji; Rimi Nura Abba; Bako Deborah Odoh; Omachi Raymond Omenka; Ahmed Dunona Umar and Ella Nicholas Agbo. Such has become the Biblical “passage through the eye of the needle” which ascension to the topmost office in the bureaucratic pyramid has come to be. Watti was in January 2024, deployed to the Federal Ministry of Sports Ðevelopment.

There she will be collaborating with the Minister, John Owan Enoh in the pursuit and actualization of the administration’s vision for that sector. She is indeed in Cote D’Ivoire as we speak backing the nation’s senior football team, the Super Watti Eagles which is doing exploits at the ongoing African Cup of the second alumnus of Unilorin to be elevated to the position Nations Football tournament, (AFCON). of Permanent Secretary in the Federal civil service. Olusegun Tinuke Watti joined the Federal Civil Service as Personnel Adekunle, a 1983 alumnus of the institution who also served in Officer II in October 1990. Her appointment was confirmed the General Services Office, (GSO) in the OSGF was the first. He exactly two years after her engagement on October 17, 1992. was appointed to the position in 2017 and has since retired. Mrs She has had very rich experience crisscrossing several critical Watti has determinedly built capacity by obtaining a diploma in ministries and offices. She spent the initial 12 years of her Urban Transport from Lund University, Sweden, in 2008, and a career in the Federal Ministry of Finance, rising to the position Masters in Public Administration (with emphasis on personnel of principal administrative officer. She was in the Office of the management) from the National Open University of Nigeria, Permanent Secretary in-charge of Political Affairs in the Office (NOUN) in 2015. of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, (OSGF), In the continuing process of professional and personal retuning, between 2002 and 2003. She was to spend the next five years in Watti has attended courses and received in-service trainings in a host the Federal Ministry of Transport, becoming Chief Administrative of institutions at home and abroad. She was at the Administrative Officer in 2008. For two years between 2009 and 2011, she was in Staff College of Nigeria, (ASCON), Badagry; the Budget and Finance the Procurement Unit of the Federal Ministry of Education where Management Programme for Budget Officers in the Federal Civil she became an Assistant Director.

Service, Ibadan and the Federal Public Service Entrepreneurship From 2011 to 2013, Watti was in the Office of the Director Programme, (PSIN), Abuja. She was similarly at the National Secuoverseeing the Office of the Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Youth Development. She was briefly in the OHCSF in rity Seminar organised by the Defence Intelligence Agency, (DIA) 2013 to 2014, where she was elevated to the rank of Deputy Direc- in the nation’s capital and equally attended a Personnel Planning and Management Programme organised by Crown Agents, United tor. She was transferred back to the Federal Ministry of Finance Kingdom. Watti was also at a United States Consultation Tour for between 2014 and 2017 as Deputy Director, General Services Nigerian Procurement Officers in Washington DC. Department. She was thereafter redeployed to the Ministry of The unassuming, humble, easygoing Tinuke Watti epitoDefence as Director, General Services from 2019 to 2021. Her next mises the Yoruba concept of omoluabi, the very well groomed. stop was the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, from Not many would have guessed before her recent elevation 2021 to 2022. She was Director of Human Resource Management and “public exposure” that she was indeed a very highly in the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation from placed bureaucrat. She is decidedly reticent. Outside her career August 2022 to November 2023, from where she was appointed engagements, she is very passionate about children and youth Permanent development. She would typically be found volunteering in Watti was born May 7, 1965 in Lagos. She had her church and community. elementary and secondary school education in Zaria and Lagos. She thereafter proceeded to the testy School of Basic Olusunle, PhD, poet, journalist, scholar and author is a Studies, (SBS), Kwara State College of Technology, Ilorin Fellow of the Association of Nigerian Authors, (ANA) between 1982 and 1984, and onwards to the University of Ilorin, (Unilorin). There she obtained a Bachelors degree Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com in Guidance and Counselling, (GC) in 1987. She becomes

James Mavuaye Orife @80: Legacy of Excellence Ade Adesokan There is no denying the fact that the extent of people’s relevance and importance in life is easily underscored by the uniqueness of their legacies after their positions of influence are taken over by new men and women of power.

This is because the importance of leaving a good legacy lies in the enduring imprint it casts, shaping hearts, inspiring minds, and illuminating paths for generations yet to come.

Some people erroneously think it is easy to push an achiever into the dustbin of history when old age comes. Still, James Mavuaye Orife, the 80-year-old Chairman and CEO of Versa-Tech Nigeria Ltd has demonstrated clearly that old age may bend the body.

Still, it cannot break the spirit of an achiever, whose impact continues to resonate powerfully within their environment.

Orife, who clocks 80 years on Monday, February 12 is an all-around professional who has carved a niche for himself in every area of the economy he has worked.

He is currently a director on the boards of many solid companies, among which are Sterling and Falcon Holdings Ltd, Starz Marine and Engineering Ltd, Prime Energy Resources, Alpha Choice Insurance Brokers, and Intels Services.

His exceptional leadership abilities and keen business acumen led him to spearhead several successful projects and companies, leaving an indelible mark on the oil industry.

His associates confirmed that he has consistently demonstrated his commitment to giving back to

Orife society through numerous philanthropic efforts, having established charitable foundations that focus on uplifting underprivileged communities, and providing access to education, healthcare, and basic needs.

They also bear witness to the fact that his tireless dedication to social causes and his generous contributions have positively impacted the lives of countless individuals, leaving a lasting legacy of compassion and care.

Orife attended Ondo Boys High Schools, Ondo; Loyola College, Ibadan, and has a BSc Hons in Geology from the University of Ibadan. He has held various positions in NNPC-Pioneer (Group General Manager in NAPIMS) and other private companies. To date, he manages Versa-Tech Nigeria Ltd, a drilling and workover rig company.

Throughout his illustrious career, James Mavuaye Orife has achieved remarkable success in his chosen field. With an unparalleled work ethic and innovative thinking that hallmarked his stint in the Nigerian oil industry, he quickly rose through the ranks to become a well-respected professional His exceptional leadership abilities and keen business acumen led him to spearhead several successful projects and companies, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

He is also a member of several professional societies and associations, including the Past President of the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE), and a Fellow of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS). He has received many awards and recognitions for his contributions to these fields etc.

And like Ansel Adams correctly puts it, No man has the right to dictate what other men should perceive, create, or produce, but all should be encouraged to reveal themselves, their perceptions, and emotions, and to build confidence in the creative spirit. There is no doubt that James Mavuaye Orife has proven himself to be a man of history who has left his footprints in the sand of time. .Adesokan is a Lagos-based public commentator

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 10, 2024

23

POLITY

As Kola Jamodu Joins Privileged Club of Octogenarians Ralph Omololu Agbana The footprints of great men are not only indelible on the sands of time but also evident in the ideas they have advanced, organisations they have built and lives they have transformed.

This is true of Dr. Kolawole Babalola Jamodu, renowned boardroom figure of several decades and public servant, one of Nigeria’s gifts to the world in the private sector. His imprimatur is engraved across time and space, across myriads of institutions and organisations he has helped to steer. He has equally mentored successor generations who have adopted his trajectory as road maps for their career development and advancement.

Jamodu’s career has traversed nearly a dozen organisations in the manufacturing and banking sectors. He has either been Director, Board Member or Chairman of entities like Honeywell Flour Mills Plc; Ashaka Cement Plc; United Bank for Africa Plc, (UBA); PZ Cussons Plc and Nigerian Breweries Plc. Similarly, he has been associated with British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation and Nutricima Ltd. He has been President of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, (MAN) and also once served as Chairman of the defunct Universal Trust Bank Plc, (UTB), before the Olusegun Obasanjo presidency which implemented the recapitalisation of banks in Nigeria.

Notably, he served as Minister of Industry under Obasanjo and was critical to the crystallisation of a number of manufacturing industries notably the Dangote Obajana Cement Company. His curriculum vitae indeed reads like that of a few people put together.

Jamodu turned 80 on Friday, February 9, 2024, entering the exclusive club of Nigeria’s octogenarians in a country where life expectancy, sadly is 55 years. It was a good opportunity to take stock of the life and endeavours of a man who has been privileged by God, but who never presumed that the proverbial manna would fall from heaven, but who had always been a quester for new challenges. Yet, he was ever ready to lace his bootstraps poised to brave and break new grounds.

Kolawole Babalola Jamodu was born in 1944 in OdoEre, Yagba West Local Government of Kogi State. From childhood, he stood out as a bright and talented star, who displayed great passion for education and was driven by the thirst for knowledge. Jamodu is an alumnus of the Harvard Business School, Boston, USA, and holds honorary doctorate degrees from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta and the Bells University of Technology, Ota, Ogun State.

He began his illustrious career journey with United Africa Company of Nigeria (UACN) in 1962 and three

years later, Lever Brothers Nigeria Limited (now Unilever Nigeria Plc) in 1965 where he acquired varied production, commercial and financial experiences over a period of 10 years. He joined PZ Cussons Group in 1975 as the Group Accountant.

Indeed, Kola Jamodu has many ‘firsts’ to his credit. He was the first Nigerian to be appointed as Group Finance Director at PZ Group in 1978. In 1980, he was appointed Chairman, PZ Nigeria Limited, (then a trading subsidiary of the PZ Group) while maintaining his position as the PZ Group Financial Director. In 1987, he became the first Nigerian Deputy Group Chief Executive and in 1990, he became the first Nigerian Group Chief Executive of PZ Cussons.

In the same year, he was appointed Chairman of PZ Cussons Plc and became the first Nigerian to combine the positions of a Chairman and Chief Executive. He retired from PZ in 1999 as Chief Executive but remained on the PZ Board of Directors as Chairman in a non-executive capacity.

After his retirement from PZ, he became Chairman of Universal Trust Bank Plc in 1999, but resigned in 2001, following his appointment as Minister of Industry of the Federal Republic of Nigeria by the then President Olusegun Obasanjo where he served his country with distinction from 2001 to 2003.

A key highlight of his tenure as Minister was the introduction of various innovative backward integration policies that ensured self-sufficiency in the production of goods such as cement; and staples such as wheat, biscuits and noodles. This move led to increased foreign direct investment, massive creation of jobs, and a solid boost to national economy and Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

On his return to the private sector, Jamodu was appointed to numerous board positions with reputable multinational companies in Nigeria. Firstly, he was re-appointed Chairman of Universal Trust Bank Plc in 2004. He joined the United Bank for Africa Plc as a non-Executive Director in 2007. He was also Chairman of Nutricima Limited, Nexan Kabelmetal Nigeria Plc, Cussons Group, among many others. Notably, in 2006, Chief Jamodu was appointed to the Board of Nigerian Breweries Plc as a non-Executive Director and transitioned to Chairman in 2008. He served the company with distinctions for 17 years, spending 15 years as board chairman. Jamodu retired from his position as Chairman of Nigerian Breweries and the company on April 30th, 2023, leaving behind a profound legacy of growth, innovation, and sustained success. Under his leadership, the company significantly expanded its operations, fortified its brand presence, and continued to drive positive change in the Nigerian brewing industry.

A Colossus in all Spheres of Life

Chief Jamodu is a highly regarded recipient of several National honours, including Member of the Order of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (MFR), Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (OFR) and Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (CFR). He is also a recipient of the National Productivity Merit Award (NPMA).

A Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA), Chief Jamodu is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria; a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria; a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, London; and a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Secretaries & Administrators. He is also a Distinguished Fellow of the Institute of Directors, Nigeria.

Jamodu served meritoriously in various capacities during his four years in the MAN, such as National Treasurer, Chairman of the Economic Policy Committee; Chairman of the Policy Advocacy Committee, Vice President and later President from 2010 to 2014. He is past President of the Harvard Business School Alumni Association of Nigeria, a former president of the Chemical and Non-Metallic Products Employers’ Foundation (CANMPEF) and an honorary member of the Nigerian Industrial Policy and Competitiveness Advisory Council chaired by the Vice-President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Other professional bodies he has served in various capacities include Member of Council at the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), Member of Council at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), and Distinguished member of the Board of Fellows of the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM).

He is an active member of Ikoyi Club 1938, Lagos Island Club, Lagos Metropolitan Club, Lagos Motor Boat Club, Moderates Club and Lagos Dining Club, some of Nigeria’s most prestigious social organisations.

A de-tribalised Nigerian with a great affinity for diverse cultures, his immense contributions to the growth and development of various communities nationwide earned him several chieftaincy titles such as Asiwaju of Ere Kingdom, Kogi State, Aare Apasewa of Ere Land, Kogi State, Babalaje of Lagos, Bobagunwa of Eri, Kogi State, Maye Bobajiro of Ibadan land, Oyo State, Parakoyi of Oshogboland, Osun State, Maiyegun of Aiyetoro-Gbede, Kogi State, Fiwajoye of Molipa, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, Ikemba 1 Orba Nsukka, Aare of Erukuland, Kwara State.

Asiwaju Jamodu is married to his wonderful wife of many years, Olori Asiwaju of Ere Kingdom, Chief (Mrs) Funmilayo Jamodu. The marriage is blessed with children and grandchildren.

Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

L-R: Director, Admin and Finance, Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Emmanuel Dare Ojo; Director, Regulations, Martha Onyebuchi; Director General, Dr. Olalekan Olumuyiwa Fadolapo; Director, Registration (ARCON), Joe-Eugene Onuorah; and Head of Legals, Mr. Chukwudi Ezeaba at a Press Conference held in Lagos…. yesterday SUNDAY ADIGUN

L-R: United States Exchange Alumni, Mr. Lawrence Ajayi Oguntoye; Dr. Maymunah Yusuf Kadiri; His Imperial Majesty, Dr. Ajibade Gbadegeshin Ogunoye 111 , Olowo of Owo Kingdom; Mrs. Akinsulure Adeola; Ms. Adesewa Umuna and Comrade Michael Chekwubechukwu during a courtesy visit to the monarch before the Alumni Climate Change Awareness outreach sponsored by United States Consulate, Lagos to several Secondary Schools in Owo, Ondo State ..recently KUNLE OGUNFUYI

L-R: Nigeria Network Of NGOS Launches, Mrs. Yemisi Ransome Kuti; Executive Secretary, Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission (LASWARCO), Mrs. Funke Adepoju; Consulting Hydrogeologist Services in Environment, Dr. Akomeno Oteri; Prof Olufemi Idowu of Federal University of Ibadan Oyo State, and Chief Operating Officer United Nations Global Compact, Mrs. Oluwatumininu Onamade, during the Stakeholders Engagement Meeting on Implementation of drilling and Abstraction Guidelines and Water Stewardship In Lagos State…recently ....Kola Olasupo

L- R: Managing Director, Kes Rentals, Mrs. Blessing Omini; Managing Director, Jason Davids Rentals, Mrs. Taiwo Oderinlo; Managing Director, KFA Rentals, Mrs. Kemi Adeleke; Managing Director, Stylista Rentals, Mrs. Olubunmi Adeboye; and Managing Director, Perfect Event and Rentals Ltd, Mrs. Patricia Osazuwa at the rentals Professionals Society of Nigeria (RPSN) annual retreat held in Lagos ….recently SUNDAY ADIGUN

24

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 10, 2024

PERSPECTIVE

Strategies for Leaders’ Success in Times of Economic Crisis Mudiaga Aluya

negative consequences.

Reduced consumer spending across various sectors remains a pervasive issue that cannot be negated. Therefore, to effectively navigate the challenges posed by economic crises, corporate leaders must not only comprehend their multifaceted impact on businesses and organisations but also develop strategies for crisis management during periods of economic downturns

A

s the global economy becomes increasingly volatile and unpredictable, corporate leaders are faced with the daunting task of managing their organisations during economic crises.

These challenging times require them to possess a unique set of skills and strategies to successfully navigate the complexities of economic downturns. The role of corporate leaders in managing economic crises to rebound and grow cannot be given little weight.

Highlighting various strategies and leadership styles that can help in steering their organisation adrift of turbulence to stimulate economic recovery is also important at this critical time. Therefore, it is apt and timely to examine the daunting task of managing during economic crises and shed light on the strategies and approaches that can enable leaders to steer their organisations and the nation at large toward success amidst the chaos of economic downturns.

The current economic crisis in Nigeria is a complex and multifaceted issue that has been exacerbated by the exchange rate unification and withdrawal of fuel subsidies. Here are some of the main factors and challenges that contributed to the crisis:

Oil Dependency

Nigeria is heavily reliant on oil exports for its foreign exchange earnings and government revenues. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, crude oil exports account for 79.37 percent of Nigeria’s export revenue; non-crude oil exports take 20.63 percent while non-oil products contribute 10.06 percent in 2022. With the average price of Nigeria’s crude oil around $77 per barrel and an output hovering around 1.3 million barrels per day, the result could only be low revenues in dollars.

Fiscal Constraints: The decline in oil revenues and the increased spending put pressure on the government’s fiscal position. Borrowing becomes a way out, making Nigeria’s Total Public Debt above N87.91 Trillion. The percentage budget deficit is alarming stiffening funds for capital projects.

This low revenue base and the high debt burden have limited the fiscal space for the government to invest in critical sectors such as health, education, and infrastructure.

Exchange Rate Management: The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) adopted the unification of the exchange rate regime, which aims to maintain exchange rate stability and preserve external reserves. However, the CBN has faced difficulties as the demand for foreign exchange has exceeded the supply.

This resulted in high prices of raw materials in critical industries like manufacturing. The cost of energy is also impacted as they are bought in dollars for local distribution. The real sector of the economy is worst hit as many companies grapple with the high cost of production and supply chain occasioned by the high cost of fuel. This policy hampered the growth of the real sectors creating panic and resulting in some company’s exist.

Inflation and Poverty The inflation rate in Nigeria has been on the rise reaching 28.9% in December 2023, the highest level recorded in recent years. The main drivers of inflation include the depreciation of the naira, the increase in fuel and electricity prices, the insecurity and conflict in some regions, and the supply chain disruptions caused by

Leading in Daunting Times

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun pockets of armed militias. The high inflation rate has eroded the purchasing power of consumers, especially the poor and vulnerable, who spend a large share of their income on food. According to the World Poverty Clock, Nigeria is the Poverty Capital of the World with 4 million more Nigeria pushed into poverty in the first six months of 2023 making 133 million in multidimensional poverty and 71 million classified as extremely poor.

Understanding the Impact on Businesses

Thriving in chaotic times requires decision-makers to possess a comprehensive understanding of the implications and effects of economic crises on businesses and organisations.

These crises unleash a domino effect of economic challenges that can significantly impact both the macro and micro levels of the economy. At the macro level, economic downturns lead to a decline in consumer purchasing power, causing reduced demand for products or services and financial instability for businesses. This, in turn, forces organisations to face various challenges as they struggle to adapt and remain afloat in the face of economic adversity. Businesses are forced to downsize, cut costs, and make tough decisions that can greatly affect their overall operations.

Furthermore, different industries experience distinct impacts during economic crises. For instance, the retail industry may witness plummeting sales and a decline in consumer visits, whereas the manufacturing sector may face supply chain disruptions and reduced demand for their products. The hospitality industry might suffer from booking cancellations and dwindling tourism. While there might be a counterargument that suggests economic crises could positively impact certain industries, such as those providing affordable or essential products/services, this argument falls short when considering most industries that still experience

Corporate leaders play a critical role in managing during economic crises, as their oversight and strategic decision-making skills are crucial for the success and survival of businesses, and organisations by extension the country. One of their key responsibilities is to assess the potential impact of economic crises on the organisation and develop appropriate strategies to mitigate risks.

This entails analysing market conditions, industry trends, and economic indicators to make informed decisions.

In addition, directors of corporations must consider the effects of economic crises on various stakeholders and ensure effective resource allocation and financial planning to navigate these challenging times. Despite the argument that managing during economic crises is better suited for executives or senior management, it fails to recognise the unique responsibilities and oversight role of directors in corporate governance.

Directors have a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of the organisation and its stakeholders, which includes managing the organisation during economic crises. Therefore, directors must possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and abilities to navigate these challenging times effectively. With their proactive and strategic approach, they can contribute to the resilience and success of businesses and organisations in the face of economic turmoil.

Thriving in Trying Times

Leaders in organisations face inherent challenges during economic crises; however, their ability to effectively manage and steer their organisations through turbulent times plays a critical role in ensuring resilience and sustainability. To do so, they can employ a myriad of strategies that enable effective crisis management during economic downturns. Perhaps the most vital strategy is proactive risk assessment and contingency planning.

By thoroughly analysing potential threats and vulnerabilities facing their organisations, directors can anticipate challenges and develop appropriate response plans. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, successful corporate leaders implemented measures to reduce costs, improve cash flow, and diversify revenue streams. By directing resources toward research and development initiatives, they were able to identify emerging market opportunities and adapt their business models accordingly.

It is essential to acknowledge the argument made by critics that crisis management strategies are only reactive rather than proactive. However, while crises cannot always be predicted, leaders who engage in proactive risk identification and planning are better prepared to respond promptly and mitigate potential damages. By conducting scenario planning exercises and stress-testing financial models, directors can effectively anticipate the impact of economic crises and implement pre-emptive measures

Aluya, a Research & Advocacy Officer, is a member of the Chartered Institute of Directors Nigeria Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

Unnecessary Distraction at NNPCL Pirigbo Igonikan

which they know to be lies.

While waiting for those who want her out of her job to come and explain why, it is obvious that people with vested interests Recently there has been. a coordinated but failed campaign who are not in tune with the new reality in the NNPC limited of calumny to discredit the Executive Vice President Upstream are finding it hard to cope and will not surrender without a of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited, Mrs. fight as the new ways of running things there have taken their Oritesemeyiwa Eyesan. illicit bread off the table.

Some of the allegations against her are not just absurd but In Nigeria, those trying to do the right things are always desperately spurious. They also exposed the campaigners’ lack of understanding of the internal workings in the company and targeted for campaigns of calumny, vilified and unjustly pulled down. Should we allow them to keep destroying our best just basic corporate governance principles. to satisfy their wicked schemes? The answer is a resounding no.

Her traducers who would not respect decorum accused her Tackling the behemoth of corruption and its backlash as have and the revered monarch, Olu of Warri of bias in the award been seen in the attacks on this innocent woman is why many of the pipeline contract, a very simplistic display of helpless in public offices today are too scared to make decisions that ignorance. would benefit the nation.

Needless to say that the Olu of Warri, His Majesty, Ogiame It is like the case of the removal of the petroleum subsidy; Atuwatse III was not a member of the Board of Directors of Pipeline Infrastructure and neither is he one of the Trustees. He successive administrators knew that it was a bitter pill that they had to swallow but were afraid to take on people with vested is also not on the board of NNPC Ltd and was therefore not in a position to influence the decision of the organisation. How interests who wanted the subsidies regime which feeds their then could those accusing them justify their allegation if not just ostentatious lifestyle to remain at the expense of the populace and development. to tarnish the image of innocent and hardworking people?

Those benefitting from a rotten system would do everything The NNPC Ltd is now a well-structured organisation, to ensure that the status quo remains even if they have to cut deploying the best global practices in running its affairs and down a generation of those who mean well for the country. needless to say that Eyesan cannot single-handedly determine or choose who got which contract. The fallacy in the allegation Anyone who tries to change it for the betterment of the larger society will incur their wrath which at present, their target is against her which stood reason on its head is obvious for Eyesan. discerning minds to see as tissue of lies concocted to bring an By insisting on due process, one can become a subject of atinnocent person to public odium through this brazen attack on tacks. Others have been transferred out of their office to obscure her personality. positions where they would not have a say. It is obvious that The question many are asking is why trying to discredit a Eyesan is being attacked for insisting on due process. She woman who has risen to where she is today through dint of therefore needs protection from the management of the NNPC hard work, brilliance, and unparalleled professional conduct Limited and the general public in whose interests she has come that has spanned over 30 years in both the private and public under the Cannon fodder of these undesirables. sectors by these Geobellian advocates whose stock in trade is At different times, she was Deputy Manager, Economics & to feed innocent readers with the tars of their inner dark minds

Eyesan Decision Support NNPC, National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS); Manager, Joint Venture NNPC, NAPIMS; Planning, General Manager NNPC, NAPIMS; Planning, Group General Manager, NNPC Corporate Planning & Strategy and Chief Strategy & Sustainability Officer NNPC Ltd Corporate Strategy & Sustainability.

Yet the ninnies who have targeted her want to wipe off her good records in one targeted attack just to ensure continuous flow of their filthy lucre.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 10, 2024

AUTO WORLD

25

Bennett Oghifo 07052343083 Email:bennett.oghifo@thisdaylive.com

TIPS OF THE WEEK

5 Things You Need To Stop Doing If Your Car Has An Automatic Transmission

L-R: Head, Business/Power and Renewable Energy Solution, Fixit45 Technologies Ltd Nigeria, Sumantra Mazumdar; Executive Director, Mijo Auto Gas PVT Ltd, India, Nitin Rane; Vice President, Commercial, Fixit45 Technologies Ltd Nigeria, Chioma Ahueze-Okechukwu; and CFO, Fixit45, Goodluck Ikporo, during MoU signing and partnership announcement between Fixit45 Technologies Ltd Nigeria and Mijo Auto Gas PVT Ltd on CNG Training and Installation Centres held in Lagos on Monday, February 05, 2024

Fixit45 Nigeria, Mijo Autogas India Sign MoU on CNG Installation, Training Bennett Oghifo

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compressed natural gas (CNG) kits installation, SURJUDPPLQJ DQG WURXEOHVKRRWLQJ 7KLV ZLOO FUHDWH VLJQLÀFDQW HPSOR\PHQW RSSRUWXQLWLHV for Nigerians Nitin Rane, Executive Director, Mijo Auto Gas PVT Ltd; India stated that Mijo Autogas, a global leader in CNG kits manufacturing, brings to the partnership a legacy of product quality and safety standards. ´:LWK RYHU DSSURYDOV DQG FHUWLÀFDWLRQV IURP UHJXODWRU\ DXWKRULWLHV ZRUOGZLGH 0LMR Autogas stands out for its commitment to H[FHOOHQFH 1RWDEO\ LW LV DPRQJ WKH ÀUVW ÀYH companies globally to acquire approval on BS-VI HPLVVLRQ VWDQGDUGV IRU &1* .LWV VKRZFDVLQJ a dedication to environmental sustainability,” Nitin Rane said.

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Jetour Reveals Unique Features of X70 Mid-size SUV, Innovative Technologies

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inDrive, a global mobility and urban services SODWIRUP KDV UHD΀UPHG LWV XQZDYHULQJ FRPmitment to prioritising safety and fair earnings IRU LWV GULYHUV LQ 1LJHULD 7KH FRPSDQ\ NQRZQ for its unique ‘name your price’ business model, shared this commitment during a roundtable discussion held in Ikeja, Lagos, on January 18, 2024.

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Another speaker, Chairman of the Amalgamated Union of Application-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), Lagos Chapter, Comrade -DL\HVLPL $]HH] VWDWHG WKDW ZKLOH LQ'ULYH QHHGV to continue setting the example in their pricing and commission structures, there is still room IRU GULYHUV WR HDUQ EHWWHU 7KLV ZRXOG EHQHÀW ERWK GULYHUV DQG SDVVHQJHUV DPLG WKH GL΀FXOW economic conditions. Azeez disclosed that plans DUH XQGHUZD\ WR HQJDJH ZLWK DOO WKH H KDLOLQJ SODWIRUPV WR HQVXUH D ZLQ ZLQ VLWXDWLRQ IRU DOO stakeholders.

Engr. Adebayo Olusoji, Director of Public Transport and Commuter Services at the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, commended e-hailing platforms for their transformative role LQ 1LJHULDQ WUDQVSRUW +H HQFRXUDJHG LQ'ULYH to act on driver and user feedback to improve their services. :KLOH DFNQRZOHGJLQJ WKH FKDOOHQJHV IDFHG by drivers on the e-hailing platform, Engr.

Adebayo stated the Ministry of Transportation’s commitment to ensuring the safety, security, sanity and standard of transport operations in /DJRV 6WDWH +H IXUWKHU VWUHVVHG WKH QHHG IRU drivers on the InDrive Platform to get accredited at the PTCS, have their vehicles inspected by WKH 9,6 DQG JHW UH FHUWLÀHG E\ /$6'5, LQ OLQH ZLWK WKH JRYHUQPHQW·V VDIHW\ UHTXLUHPHQWV IRU public transport operators. $W DQ HYHQW ZLWK WKH GULYHUV DQG YDULRXV D΀OLDWHG XQLRQV LQ DWWHQGDQFH WRS SHUIRUPLQJ GULYHUV RQ WKH SODWIRUP ZHUH UHFRJQL]HG DQG UHZDUGHG ZLWK DQ L3KRQH HDFK $FFRUGLQJ WR Oladimeji, this gesture is in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the platform’s success.

(Source: SlashGear)

26

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 10, 2024

EXPRESSION

MEDIAGAFFES

Creditably, Not ‘Creditably

EBERE WABARA

S

ATURDAY INDEPENDENT online of January 15 disseminated all manner of school-boy howlers right from the front page: “Fear has grip (gripped) notable politicians in Ebonyi State following findings by….” Most of the ensuing blunders were caused by sheer carelessness and loose thinking as the computer system has an in-built mechanism that detects most of the spelling errors contained herein.

“The discovery was made when the SSS arrested some kidnappers in the state alleged to be the brain (brains) behind high profile (high-profile) kidnapping in the state.”

“The SSS in the state said on Friday that it has (had) arrested….” “…motorists were made to watch a bizzare (bizarre) spectacle, (needless comma) as four policemen beat a man gave (who gave) his name as…to a state of stupour (stupor).”

“The policemen, who drove to the scene in a patrol van with registration number KJA 284 AX, threw caution the winds (sic) (threw caution to the winds).”

“Federal University Lafia, (otiose punctuation) matriculates 380 students” Would it have matriculated traders? Just yank away the last word in the extract!

“Community sends SOS to Otti over harrassment” Spell-check: harassment, but embarrassment.

“When Uzodinma’s wife rescued woman abandoned with tripplet (triplet)” Still on SATURDAY INDEPENDENT under focus: “…Senator Hope Uzodinma, has already served the people creditable well…”

This is an over-kill: use either ‘creditably’ or ‘well’. Both cannot co-function in the same environment.

BY

“Adewale Ayuba is one musician (music/ musical) act who has been around for years. “ “My husband usually ask (asks) me to abort my pregnancy, woman tells court” Finally from SATURDAY INDEPENDENT, a voice of your own: “Movie directors threaten sanction on (against) actress” Next on focus is DAILY TRUST of January 10: “They buy at N159 and sell at N167, the CBN has (had) addressed last year when….”

“But what the banks decided to do is (was) to even stop selling.”

“Middle aged (Middle-aged) man commits suicide in Jos…Police tries (try) to uncover his identity” “IITA creates 40,000 jobs under cassava to ethanol (cassava-to-ethanol) project” THISDAY of February 6 contributed to the pool of infelicities: “Budget: APC threatening the lifewire (livewire) of Nigeria, says FG” “Edo: Court remands killer cop (killer-cop) in prison” Get it right: Court remands killer-cop Leadership of January 9 goofed: “CBN said money is (was) missing from federation (the federation) account.”

Next on parade is The PUNCH of January 10: “Osun education policy confusing—Methodist Church” This way: Osun’s educational (preferably) policy…

“Uzodinma advised to set-up committee on derivation fund” Phrasal verbs abhor hyphenation.

“Police arrest five students over (for) NECO exam fraud” “Its body is adapted to breath (breathe) air during periods of draught....”

“Consequently, the proper policing of our streets are (is) sorely neglected.”

“In the past, as there was (were) no clearcut policies and demarcation of roads.…”

“This situation works against the use of

vigilante (vigilance) groups to combat crime because most of them are ethnic based.”

“Face off (a hyphen, please) between chairmen, councillors paralyse (paralyses) activities in 3 LGs” “Sanwo-Olu charges electronics media to halt….” Get it right: the electronic media to halt…. “…the closure and later reopening of the school, but with a divide and rule tactics.”

Education without tears: a divide-and-rule (note the hyphenation) tactic (not tactics). “…the crisis currently being faced in fuel supply and distribution will be a child’s play.”

There is currency in ‘being’. So, ‘currently being’ is an overkill.

“A fatal motor accident…has claimed the lives of Eleven (sic) wedding guests among them a youth corp (corps) member.” Once death results, it becomes obviously a fatal mishap. Therefore, there is no point including the ‘fatality’ aspect in the intro.

“Group lashes Tinubu over relationship with deputy” The group did not flog the man, but lashed out at him! Got the point?

Idiomatic expressions are fixed and not subject to a sub-editor’s illiteracy. “…as a condition of peace in (on) the whole continent.”

“Nigeria farmer’s export pumpkin leaves” Just rewrite: Nigerian farmers export pumpkin leaves.

“Holy Rosary Nursery School, Abuja (another comma) holds first graduation ceremony” Simply graduation (no trite embellishment with otiose ‘ceremony’—do you understand?).

Yet another headline blunder: ”Criteria knocks out firms on privatization” Singular: criterion; plural: criteria.

“Sensing danger, the palace and its vicinity was (were) fortified.”

Revisiting The Nigerian Railway

A

little over six months ago, we published our experience on the tracks of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), about 40 years after our youthful train escapades as an undergraduate on the plateau. The three-part series was anchored by the piece titled A ‘ Train Trip between 1983 and 2023’ on 27 May, 2023.

In the first week of 2024, we decided to take a short break from the grind of professional life, and associated hustles - after many years of unhealthy competition with self on one’s capacity to work year-in-year-out without a vacation.

So, we shut down all engagements between 31 December, 2023 and January 8, 2024. A three-day visit to Ibadan, Oyo State, topped the holiday plan. And of course, considering what the unconscionable marauders have turned the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway to, the most sensible means of transportation is the rail.

Between our last lament and this latest adventure, we noticed that the NRC had adopted e-ticketing and virtual booking whereby cash was no longer acceptable, and passengers could make order for the seats and class of coaches they wanted right from their homes.

We were elated. But there was a snag. The Bola Tinubu government, in currying the favours of the Nigerian people in these harsh times, had declared free tickets for any would be train commuters between 21 December, 2023 and 4 January, 2024. So, we decided it would be a great mistake, if we chose any of the “free” days to board the train… with our love for “awoof”, the throng if humanity would make the tour a torrid punishment.

In any case, after registering on the NRC portal, we discovered that all seats in the three categories: First Class, Business Class and Standard Class were all booked. All days, and all seats, were pre-occupied; though one could only make a booking within a 48-hour window. The social media reports showed tumultuous crowds of people trying to sneak a free ride, and thereby creating a fertile ground for unscrupulous staff members of NRC to make some quick bucks - even from

the free-for-all offer.

So, we went for the day after the free tickets would have lapsed, and ticked the fifth day of January. While imputing the required information in the morning of the 4th, there were less than six confirmed seats in the 24-seat First Class compartment.We ran into some glitches with the payment interface while using the Flutterwave platform generated. A surprisingly helpful and knowledgeable chap we stumbled upon on Twitter (now X) - Damilola Kalejaiye, whose ‘bio’ include “computer engineer (maintenance, networking and ICT related issues, IT specialist @info_NRC)” - helped us tremendously in making sure our payment (confirmed outflow) didn’t disappear into oblivion.

Then the government struck. In the evening of the same fourth day of January, the news went viral that the ‘free-ride’ had been extended to the 7th of January - to further help cushion the pangs of economic hardship average Nigerians were facing. Just as instantly, within minutes of the announcement, the seats were all booked - in all classes! Some bemused folks argued that the speed at which all coaches had been ware-housed and exhausted could be the handiwork of “insider-trading” and ‘smart Alec’ Nigerians who are always on the lookout for any money making opportunities, regardless of government’s positive or palliative intentions.

Nevertheless, we remained half doubtful of the Nigerian factor, and somewhat half hopeful that the process would respond positively to its own protocols. Buoyed by Damilola’s confident encouragement, and a contact (simply named Emmanuel) who promised to be on site, to authenticate our paid-up ‘tickets’ (despite the Flutterwave fiasco) - and amid the expected chaos of a free-for-all official yoyo.

We arrived at the Agege Station (renamed Babatunde Fashola) before 7.30 am, and the place was unsurprisingly bubbly with heavy-baghauling passengers. At least, for once, being fee-paying passengers, we were accorded due regard, and respectfully ushered to our seat in the large air-conditioned waiting room.

Relief! Many thanks to Damilola and Emmanuel, we didn’t regret insisting on travelling on that

‘free’ day.

By 8.10am, we were called out to board the train. Then we realised the escalators had stopped working!We were unsure if they were demobilized because of the free days, fearing that heavy usage or uncontrollable manhandling might impact negatively on their functionality.

Or they had merely packed up. We were not told the reason escalators were not working, nor were there any apologies.

That early physical torture of hauling our fairly large suitcase across the raft of stairwells - up and down - would have incensed many frayed nerves.

However, it was heartwarming to see that the train still keeps to time - like the cliched clockwork. Our train, all of eight coaches, apart from the front and back engine rooms, birthed at exactly 8.19am (8.20 was the official time).

My first impression of the C-1 coach, designated as First Class, was not disappointing. It has 24 seats, with a large aisle separating a row of double seats on one side, and another row of single seats, on the other - with copious leg room.

There is always a glitch with NRC, though. Here is one: while the numbering on the e-ticket had us as owners of seats 17/18…such arrangement did not meet our sight. The double seats were numbered ‘1’ to ‘8’ with A ‘’ and ‘C’ bordering them; while the single seats had similar numbers but with ‘B’ as accompaniment. Wetin man pikin go do? We chose 7A/C. At 8.25am, we lumbered out of the station enroute Ibadan. We noticed that movements within the coach were controlled, and passengers were politely monitored, apparently to make sure people had the right ‘tickets’ to be in the right coach - by opening your smart phones to show your tickets in QR code format. What would happen to passengers without smartphones is

ewabara@yahoo.com, 08055001948

“Much more painful is the fact that officials charged with such high responsibilities betray the confidence reposed on (in) them…”

“Man (a comma) 60, jailed two years for impregnating 12-year-old girl” “…vigilante groups also exist but not as the…” Justice in service of community: vigilance group.

“We congratulate the governor for (on) this.”

“Until he decided to join the political bandwagon as one of the facilitators…”

State of the nation: climb or jump aboard/on the bandwagon.

“Lufthansa Cargo devices new means of tracking shipment” British Standard English: device (noun) and devise (verb).

“Oshodi/Isolo LG sets to re-build (sic) burnt market” Lagos Insider: set to rebuild.

“Players shape-up for Tinubu Tennis” Phrasal verbs abhor hyphenation.

“That appears to be the thrust of the arguement raging right, left and centre.”

Spellcheck: argument. “…as an affront on (to) them as a people.” “…since he believes the police has (have) failed.”

“Even Tinubu himself has proposed that a largely populated and commercial city like Lagos, with its multi-ethnic colourations (colorations) and a teeming population of about 12 million people, require (requires) 50,000 policemen…”

The Lagos State Police Command was expected to have given a shoot-at-sight order to its officers recently.” New (dynamic) school: shoot-on-sight order.

“The police needs (need) not only to be strong but also…”

COUNTERPOINT

FEMI

AKINTUNDE-JOHNSON fajalive1@gmail.com 08033622806- (SMS Only)

anyone’s guess. And there was “in-flight” refreshment…but contrary to my wishful thinking, they were not free nor complimentary. Food trolleys - mostly pies, sausages, fried chicken parts, and such moved up and down the aisle.

Relaxed ambience - we even overheard a passenger demanding that her snacks be microwaved… and the stewardess obliged!

The seats have sliding trays that can take a plate of fried rice, a bottle of water and a cup to boot. You can also recline your seat, after a meal, to stroll into dreamland - if you know how to depress or control the mechanism at the base of the seat, that is.

As is now normal, the room was cold. Very cold. But we found distraction in the regular voiced announcements for station stops - in English and Yoruba languages - and other instructions on procedures and usage of train facilities. The stiff-lipped monotone popularized by airline announcers has obviously been adopted by the railway. We made a mental note of key points in the words of the ‘official spokesperson’: “Cash is no longer acceptable. E-tickets can only be purchased via bank cards and direct transfers.” It will be interesting to put these bold moves to further scrutiny as we hear and read about efforts to circumvent the new payment process.

Even as the NRC wangles through the initial stages of this commendable process, it is gratifying to note that direct cash payments have become obsolete - what was hitherto a thriving opportunity for sticky fingers - yet, there is still much to do to finesse a seamless pain-free payment process.

We arrived at Papalanto Station (now Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti) around 9.07am.

(To Continue)

3

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 24, 2011

GLOBAL SOCCER A

WEEKLY PULL-OUT

NEWS

SAFE HANDS NWABALI

10.2.2024

PAGE. 27

AFCON 2023

SUPER EAGLES Fourth AFCON Title Within Reach

28

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 10, 2024

GLOBAL SOCCER AFCON 2023 ... AFCON 2023 ...AFCON 2023 ...AFCON 2023 ...

Super Eagles

Fourth AFCON Title Within Reach Nigeria’s dream of a fourth Africa Cup of Nations title will tomorrow face a big test as the Super Eagles battle host, Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire, in the final of the 2023 AFCON at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium. Both teams emerged from the same group and the three-time African champions got the better of their host by a lone goal. However, both sides have since improved and tomorrow’s encounter will be quite tricky Road to Final Nigeria Group Stage Guinea-Bissau 0-1 Nigeria Ivory Coast 0-1 Nigeria Nigeria 1-1 Eq Guinea ROUND OF 16 Nigeria 2-0 Cameroon Quarter Finals Nigeria 1-0 Angola SEMIFINALS Nigeria 1-1 South Africa (4-2 pen.)

GROUP STAGE IVORY COAST Ivory Coast 2-0 Guinea-Bissau Ivory Coast 0-1 Nigeria Eq Guinea 4-0 Ivory Coast ROUND OF 16 Senegal 1-1 Ivory Coast (4-5 pen.)

QUARTER FINALS Mali 1-2 Ivory Coast SEMIFINALS Ivory Coast 1-0 Congo DR Troost Ekong’s goal from the spot silenced the Ivorian fans when Nigeria beat Ivory Coast 1-0 in the group stage of AFCON 2023

B

efore the start of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Nigeria was not one of the top favourites to clinch the title not because of lack of players’ quality but for posting some disappointing results prior to the tournament, which also question the ability of the team’s head coach, Jose Peseiro to deliver when it matters most.

To make matters worse for the Super Eagles, a number of first team players were injured just days to the kickoff of the biennial competition and it was therefore surprising that a number of countries were ahead of Nigeria on the bookmakers’ list of nations that can go all the way.

Against all odds however, Nigeria will be encountering Cote d’Ivoire in the AFCON 2023 final tomorrow with both having equal chances of clinching it.

Nigeria reached their first final since 2013, when they won their third continental title.

Tomorrow’s Africa Cup of Nations final between Nigeria and Cote d’Ivoire at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium is a rematch of their Group A encounter.

Much has changed since the Super Eagles defeated the Elephants earlier in the tournament, with the hosts surmounting obstacles when hope seemed to be lost, and they now appear to have momentum heading into the decider in Abidjan.

While Ivorian fans felt making the decider was attainable before AFCON 2023 kicked off, it was different for the Super Eagles, who went from outsiders for the trophy to being the highestranked nation left in the competition after group-stage exits of Algeria and Tunisia and early elimination in the knockouts to Egypt, Morocco and defending champions Senegal.

Despite the three-time champions’

outstanding talent, reservations about Peseiro’s team fuelled doubts about his side, whose performances and results leading to the finals left much to be desired.

However, Nigeria have shown a different version of themselves at the tournament proper, creating chances in their opener against Equatorial Guinea without winning, altering their approach to defeat Cote d’Ivoire and demonstrating defensive astuteness through their journey in the knockout rounds to bring them within touching distance of a fourth crown.

While much has been made of Stanley Nwabali’s impact between the sticks after his penalty-saving exploits against South Africa, the Chippa United goalkeeper’s assuredness has spread calm throughout a previously shaky backline.

The Super Eagles’ four-game run without conceding was halted in the semifinal, albeit by Teboho Mokoena’s 90thminute penalty, making Nwabali’s only open-play concession Iban Salvador’s strike in the shot-stopper’s tournament debut.

More fascinating for Peseiro’s men is how they have made it this far despite Victor Osimhen not scoring since the 1-1 draw with Nzalang Nacional, even if the Napoli striker’s telling contributions are underscored by his tenacity without the ball, creating chances for teammates and causing panic for the opposition.

The current African Footballer of the Year has had several goals disallowed, typically due to his penchant for being caught offside, although he set up Ademola Lookman’s first against Cameroon in the round of 16 and has won decisive spot-kicks against tomorrow’s opponents and in Wednesday’s semi-final.

With or without scoring, Osimhen’s capacity to influence games could aid the

Super Eagles’ bid for a fourth African title.

Despite having first-hand experience of the Napoli striker, Cote d’Ivoire should feel better prepared to take on the Nigeria superstar, with Peseiro’s men taking the Elephants by surprise with a switch to a back three that turned into a five-player backline when they met on January 18.

The jettisoned Jean-Louis Gasset could not react to turn the game with alterations, and the home side resorted to shooting from unfavourable positions when they could not unpick the Nigerian rearguard.

What followed was a 4-0 humiliation against Equatorial Guinea that many thought signalled the end of the Elephants at AFCON 2023, but the home side have raised their level significantly and have been buoyed by the intense support.

Emerse Fae was placed in temporary charge of the side before the Ivorians knew their qualification fate, and the ex- Cote d’Ivoire international has taken the team past the threat of a dreaded Senegal team chasing back-to-back titles and defeating Mali in the quarter-finals despite playing the entire second half and an additional 30 minutes in extra time with 10 men.

An impressive aspect of this team has been the capacity to respond to setbacks in the knockout stage, having fallen behind in the round of 16 and quarter-final games against the Lions of Teranga and the Eagles, with the latter arguably trumping the former because they were shorthanded.

After showing the mental fortitude to persevere, the hosts then halted their run of conceding first in the 1-0 victory over Congo DR, they let in opening goals against Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, Senegal and Mali, courtesy of Sebastien Haller’s unconventional finish that deceived Lionel M’Pasi to put them one

TODAY’S FIXTURES THIRD PLACE

DR Congo v South Africa SUNDAY FINAL

Nigeria v Coted’Ivoire

Head -to -Head 19/03/67 Nigeria 0-0 I’ Coast AFCON 31/03/67 I’Coast 2-0 Nigeria AFCON 10/08/77 Nigeria 4-0 I’Coast World Cup 24/08/77 I’Coast 2-2 Nigeria World Cup 12/03/80 Nigeria 0-0 I’Coast AFCON 03/01/87 Nigeria 0-0 I’Coast A/Games 18/01/87 I’Coast 1-0 Nigeria A/Games 25/01/90 Nigeria 2-0 I’Coast CEDEAO Cup 08/03/90 Nigeria 1-0 I’Coast AFCON 31/10/91 I’Coast 2-0 Nigeria CEDEAO Cup 02/05/93 I’Coast 2-1 Nigeria World Cup 25/09/93 Nigeria 4-1 I’Coast World Cup 06/04/94 Nigeria v I’Coast AFCON 07/02/06 Nigeria v I’Coast AFCON 21/01/08 I’Coast v Nigeria AFCON 03/02/13 I’Coast v Nigeria AFCON 06/07/13 Nigeria v I’Coast AFC 27/08/13 I’Coast v Nigeria AFC 18/01/24 I’Coast v Nigeria AFCON

game away from a third continental title.

The Borussia Dortmund striker was making his first start of the finals, supported by Brighton & Hove Albion attacker Simon Adingra, who netted the late leveller against Mali in the semis, and the pair could be difference makers in tomorrow’s decider.

Having lost the previous two meetings with Nigeria at AFCON 2013, eventually won by the Super Eagles, and earlier at the ongoing finals, the Elephants seek to end their two-game Cup of Nations losing run in this West African rivalry to become the 12th hosts and first since Egypt in 2006 to claim the title on home soil.

29

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 10, 2024

GLOBAL SOCCER AFCON 2023 ... AFCON 2023 ...AFCON 2023 ...AFCON 2023 ...

Omeruo Anticipates Tough AFCON Final Showdown against Ivory Coast Super Eagles defender, Kenneth Omeruo, expects a tough battle in tomorrow’s 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final against the Ivory Coast.

The match, set to take place at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Ebimpe, Abidjan, will see Nigeria facing off against the hosts after securing a semi-final victory against South Africa.

Meanwhile, at the group stage, Jose Peseiro’s men were seeded with Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau and Equatorial Guinea, where they defeated Ivory Coast with a score of one goal to nil, thanks to William Troost-Ekong’s goal from the penalty spot.

Omeruo acknowledges the significance of the game for both countries, with Nigeria having earlier secured a 1-0 victory against the Ivory Coast in the group stage. Despite this prior success, Omeruo anticipates a strong response from the Ivorian team, aiming for redemption.

“We all know how important this game is for our country, for them too (Cote d’Ivoire) it is very important. We beat them in the group stage and they will definitely want a revenge this time around.” he said, as witnessed

by Soccernet.ng during the training session on Thursday.

Given the expected hostile environment and passionate home crowd, Omeruo emphasises the importance of the team’s experience in dealing with such situations. He expresses confidence in the team’s ability to overcome the challenges and emerge victorious in the final showdown.

He added: “The crowd will be hostile and will be solidly behind them, but we have the experience to deal with that. It’s going to be tough out there, but we will do our best to come out victorious,” The Super Eagles of Nigeria will be hoping to lift their fourth AFCON trophy on Sunday, while the host will be eyeing their third trophy.

Stanley Nwabili’s heroics ensures that Nigeria defeated South Africa to book a place in AFCON 2023 final on Sunday

Stanley Nwabali The Safe Hands Behind Nigeria’s Run to AFCON Final South Africa-based goalkeeper, Stanley Nwaabali is not only the unlikely hero for Super Eagles, who face hosts, Cote D’Ivoire in tomorrow’s tournament climax but one of the revelations of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations

I

n the first week of December, the manager of Nigeria, Jose Peseiro, travelled to the southern tip of Africa. It was high summer in Port Elizabeth, as it used to be known, with the coastal city looking forward to its tourist season.

Peseiro was there to solve a crisis.

Many Nigerians would call it a chronic one: the lack of a reliable, big-matchready goalkeeper for the national team, a live issue since the 2015 retirement of Vincent Enyeama, a record-breaker and inspiration through over 100 caps.

In Peseiro’s rear-view mirror were high-profile errors that marked the Super Eagles in the period immediately before he was appointed as coach.

There was the long, speculative shot that bounced up off the outstretched arm of keeper Maduka Okoye and into the Nigerian goal in the last 16 of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, gifting Tunisia victory. There was the long, speculative drive that slid underneath Francis Uzoho’s body two months later, granting Ghana a place at the Qatar World Cup at Nigeria’s expense.

Peseiro had flown to Gqeberha to meet Stanley Nwabili and watch him wearing the gloves for Chippa United, currently in the lower reaches of South Africa’s Premier League, against Golden Arrows.

No glamour fixture this, and a scouting mission that looked a little offbeat, even desperate, just a month ahead of the Cup of Nations in Cote D’Ivoire for which Peseiro was making his plans. Nwabili, 27, had a single cap to his name, from a friendly two-and-a-half-years earlier, a

4-0 Super Eagles defeat to Mexico.

Peseiro introduced himself to Nwabali and watched him keep a clean sheet against Golden Arrows, a 2-0 victory that interrupted an eight-match sequence of Chippa United games without a win. The coach liked what he saw: an imposingly tall and broad keeper with sharp reflexes. He decided his was a presence he could use at Afcon.

Nwabali’s selection was greeted with surprise in Nigeria. He had faded from the radar having left local club football 18 months ago to move a long way south. The best, exported Nigerian talent tends to go north.

Keepers such as Maduka Okoye, of Serie A’s Udinese, and Francis Uzoho, formerly of Deportivo La Coruna in Spain and now of Omonia in Cyprus, make their living in Europe. So does every outfield member of Nigeria’s Afcon squad.

Making a living at Chippa United, meanwhile, can seem insecure. The club have lurched through a series of financial crises and been supported by local government funds, Gqeberha’s civic leaders believing the city needs a top-flight team.

Chippa United, who moved its franchise there a decade ago, are alone in representing South Africa’s fifth biggest metropolis in the upper division of the national sport. An irony, then, in how the peak moment of Nwabali’s professional life unfolded, a little under two months after Peseiro had gone to appraise him.

Odegbami Warns against Distractions Ahead of Final Match Africa Cup of Nations winner, Dr. Olusegun Odegbami has advised that the Nigeria Football Federation weave some protective net around the Super Eagles to allow for maximum concentration of players and officials on Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations Final against the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire.

“There is this interesting story of one triathlon athlete who led the field for most of the competition, was far ahead of every other competitor and looked sure to win. But she fell down close to the tape, and before she could summon the energy to crawl towards the tape, she saw someone go past her to claim victory. The lesson of the story is that it is never over until it is over.

“The NFF should not allow any kind of distractions around the team in the next couple of days before the match. Let us allow the boys to concentrate and focus hard on the task at hand. No frivolous visits to the team camp should be allowed.”

The top scorer of the 1980 finals stated further: “We must all endeavour to help the team. Let them be themselves and remain themselves. This is of utmost national importance and all for the glory of our homeland. Nothing must be allowed to distract the players from this crucial national assignment.”

Kessie Hopes Lightning doesn’t Strike Twice in AFCON Final Versus Nigeria

Former Barcelona midfielder, Franck Kessié is hoping lightning does not strike twice on Sunday when Ivory Coast face off with tournament favorites, Nigeria in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final.

In the first AFCON final between two West African countries since the Elephants beat the Black Stars 9-8 on penalties to win the 2015 edition of the tournament in Equatorial Guinea, Nigeria and Ivory Coast will do battle at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium, Abidjan.

After losses to Nigeria and dark horses, Equatorial Guinea in the group stage, Ivory Coast were on the brink of elimination but have turned their tournament around, winning three games in a row to advance to the showpiece.

Kessié is aware of the threat posed by their next opponents Nigeria having gone the distance against the three-time African champions in the group stage and has urged his teammates to remain calm ahead of the final.

“We all know Nigeria is a very great football nation and a very good team. We were in the same group and we lost 1-0 unfortunately but we still have a match on Sunday so as I emphasised it earlier today we are going to remain calm.

“We are going to savour our victory and from tomorrow with the help of the technical staff we will work and we will think about the final.”

We have Revenge to Take on Nigeria, Says Sebastien Haller A new country will be crowned as champions of Africa on Sunday

as Nigeria will be taking on tournament host, Ivory Coast in the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan.

Nigeria booked their place in the final of the AFCON after a hard-fought win on penalties against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana, while former West Ham striker Sébastien Haller was the hero for the Elephants with the match-winning goal in a 1-0 victory against Democratic Republic of Congo.

In one of their best games of the tournament,Nigeria defeated Ivory Coast 1-0 in the group stage with William Troost-Ekong converting a second half spot kick won by Victor Osimhen.

Sébastien Haller, who was not in the gameday squad against the Super Eagles due to ankle injury he was recovering from, is extra keen to get revenge on the three-time African champions.

“We are playing the final against Nigeria. It is a great nation. It is heavy. They beat us in the group stage,” Haller said to beIN SPORTS. “But we are already motivated to go and lift the trophy on Sunday in this stadium in front of the Ivorian people. We have revenge to take on Nigeria.”

Ivory Coast have not been convincing in the tournament and should have been knocked out in the group stage but had a second chance after qualifying for the knockout rounds as the fourth-ranked third-placed team.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 10, 2024

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GLOBAL SOCCER

Can West Ham Contain Arsenal Title Charge?

After a deserved victory over Premier League leaders, Liverpool, last weekend, Arsenal would be hoping to build on the momentum as the Gunners take a short trip to West Ham United in a London derby

PREMIER LEAGUE TODAY

Man City v Everton 12:30 Fulham v Bournemouth 15:00 Liverpool v Burnley 15:00 Luton Town v Sheffield Utd 15:00 Tottenham v Brighton 15:00 Wolves v Brentford 15:00 Nott’m Forest v Newcastle 17:30 SUNDAY

West Ham v Arsenal 14:00 Aston Villa v Man Utd 16:30 MONDAY

Crystal Palace v Chelsea 20:00

La Liga TODAY

Alavés v Villarreal 13:00 Sociedad v Osasuna 15:15 Madrid v Girona 17:30 Las Palmas v Valencia 20:00 SUNDAY

Getafe v Celta Vigo 13:00 Mallorca v Vallecano 15:15 Sevilla v Atlético 17:30 Barcelona v Granada 20:00

Hot Shot PLAYERS

CLUB

Erling Haaland Mohamed Salah Dominic/S Son Heung-min Jarrod Bowen Ollie Watkins Alexander Isak Hwang Hee-chan Richarlison Cole Palmer

GOALS

Man City 14 Liverpool 14 Bournemouth 13 Tottenham 12 West Ham 11 Aston Villa 11 Newcastle 10 Wolves 10 Tottenham 10 Chelsea 10

Premier League Table

West Ham defeated Arsenal 2-0 in the reverse fixture at the Emirate Stadium

A

short trek across the capital awaits Premier League challengers, Arsenal tomorrow, as the Gunners seek revenge over London rivals West Ham United at the London Stadium.

Mikel Arteta’s men added another twist to the title tale with a 3-1 beating of leaders, Liverpool last weekend, whereas the Irons succumbed to Manchester United’s superiority in a 3-0 defeat.

Subjected to another rude awakening upon his return to one of his former clubs, West Ham boss David Moyes cut a gloomy figure as Man United put three past West Ham without reply last Sunday, where the Red Devils’ stars of tomorrow stole the spotlight.

A clinical Rasmus Hojlund finish preceded two efforts from South American starlet Alejandro Garnacho at the Theatre of Dreams, although West Ham were not without their moments in Manchester, leaving Moyes to profess that the 3-0 scoreline “flattered” his old employers.

Regardless, a sixth match on the bounce without a win for the Irons who are yet to triumph in any tournament since the turn of the year, saw

Moyes’s men drop below Man United into seventh place in the table, albeit with just a two-point gap to make up to the Red Devils.

However, Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion could both force the Hammers out of the European positions with triumphs in their affairs today, but a return to home comforts gives the Europa Conference League holders reason for optimism, as they have not lost any of their last six Premier League games at the London Stadium.

Only Manchester City and Everton have left West Ham’s turf with three points in the bag so far this season, but not since their days at Upton Park in the 2015-16 campaign - when Slaven Bilic was at the helm, have the hosts strung together a seven-match unbeaten home run in the Premier League.

The third time is often the charm, and it certainly was for Arteta’s ruthless Arsenal against Liverpool last Sunday, as the Gunners erased painful memories of their FA Cup loss to the Reds and throwing away a one-goal lead to draw at Anfield just before Christmas.

The Emirates extravaganza pitted the two meanest rearguards in the division against one another, but both sides swapped their previous defensive diligence for penalty-box

blunders, as Gabriel Magalhaes firstly netted a comical own goal to bring Liverpool level after Bukayo Saka’s opener.

However, Gabriel’s howler soon paled into insignificance, as a shocking mix-up between Virgil van Dijk and Alisson Becker presented Gabriel Martinelli with an empty net, before the latter failed to keep his legs closed at his near post, and Leandro Trossard took full advantage to rubber-stamp a glorious Gunners success.

After experiencing a run of just one win from seven games for the first time in the Emirates hotseat, Arteta’s Arsenal renaissance has seen the Gunners march to three successive top-flight victories to move to within two points of Liverpool, although Manchester City, who kick off against Everton at today’s lunchtime are still ahead on goal difference for the time being.

The North London titans must channel their third-time charm once again this weekend if they are to conquer their capital foes, though, as West Ham’s most recent win in any competition was their 2-0 Emirates victory just after Christmas, prior to which they also extinguished Arsenal’s chances of EFL Cup glory with a 3-1 London Stadium victory.

TEAM

P

GD

PTS

Liverpool Liverpool Man City Arsenal Aston Villa Tottenham Man Utd West Ham Brighton Newcastle Wolvers Chelsea Bournemouth Fulham Crystal Palace Brentford Nott’m Forest Luton Town Everton * Burnley Sheffield Utd

20 23 22 23 23 23 23 23 23 23 23 23 22 23 23 22 23 22 23 23 23

25 30 29 25 19 14 -1 0 4 11 0 -1 -11 -8 -14 -7 -13 -10 -4 -23 -40

45 51 49 49 46 44 38 36 35 33 32 31 27 26 24 22 21 20 19 13 10

G LO B A L S O C C E R ASSISTANT EDITOR KUNLE ADEWALE THISDAY ON SATURDAY EDITOR OBINNA CHIMA DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMIFULA OGBU THISDAY NEWSPAPERS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 10, 2024

31

GLOBAL SOCCER

DR Congo would be looking for consolation against South in today’s third-place match

Troost-Ekong

South Africa, DR Congo Battle for AFCON Third -pace

Troost-Ekong Drawing Interest from Saudi Clubs after AFCON Brilliant Display

The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations third-place playoff between South Africa and Congo DR at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium today.

Both nations take each other on after disappointing semi-final defeats, with Bafana Bafana losing on penalties after a commendable showing against Nigeria, while the Leopards were beaten by tournament hosts Ivory Coast.

It remains to be seen what South Africa have left in the tank when they feature in the third-place game after the mental and physical exertion of playing extra time in the quarter and semi-finals.

Hugo Broos’s men could still

be reeling after Wednesday’s loss to Nigeria, having surprised the Super Eagles with their switch to a back three and superior coherence for the opening half.

However, Bafana Bafana could not edge ahead despite finding joy between the lines and exploiting the West African nation’s passive structure without the ball, in which the three-time champions kept a high defensive line but did not pressure the opponent in possession.

The South Africans fell behind after the interlude but levelled in the 90th minute through Teboho Mokoena’s late penalty and could have won it with the game’s last

kick, with Khuliso Mudau shooting over from inside the six-yard box after Stanley Nwabali parried Mokoena’s free kick.

The game went into extra time, and despite Broos’s men playing for penalties — convinced by the heroics of Ronwen Williams against Cape Verde — the shot-stopper saved none of Nigeria’s kicks in the defeat despite stopping four against the Blue Sharks.

That loss ended the 1996 champions’ ambition to make their first AFCON final since 1998 and play for a second African title, and they now seek a response to finish third.

Kipmeto Headlines 81 Elite Athletes for Access Bank Lagos City Marathon Today Former marathon world record holder, Kenyan Dennis Kipmeto headlines the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon scheduled for today in Lagos.

Kipmeto’s best time of 2hrs, 0.2 mins 57secs stands him out as the man to beat here today.

Also in the race is Ethiopian Kelkile Gezahegan with a PB of 2 hrs 05 minutes and 56 seconds; Kiptoo Edwin on 2hrs 06 minutes and 52 seconds and female runner like Valary Jemeli (Kenya) on 2 hours 19 minutes.

In all, over 81 world-class elite runners who are basically gold label athletes have confirmed their participation in the 9th Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, which comes up today.

Among these over 81 elite runners, there are 29 gold label women runners, which in totality, according to the General Manager of the Lagos City Marathon, Yusuf Ali, has a very rich and world-class running field with the potential of unearthing a new course

record today.

According to the Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, the owners of the Lagos City Marathon, Chief Bukola Olopade, the United Nations, has also confirmed the participation of 15 refugee runners among the rich field of runners that will be participating in the 9th Lagos City Marathon.

The prime road race General Manager, and former Africa record holder in the Long Jump for 27 years, noted that, the confirmation of over 81 world- class gold label runners, is positive thing for the 9th edition of the Lagos City Marathon, especially as the organisers are preparing for the 10th edition of the race with the biggest prospect of uplifting the race from the Gold Label status to the Platinuum Label.

“Our target is to ensure that our registered world-class elite runners help propel the Lagos City Marathon to the Platinuum Label.

According to transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano, Super Eagles center-back William Troost-Ekong has caught the attention of Saudi Pro League clubs following his brilliant outing at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

The veteran defender has been immense for Nigeria, playing as the sweeper in José Peseiro’s 3-4-3 formation, and has started all but one game so far.

He has scored two goals from the penalty spot in the

competition, placing him second on the top scorers’ list for the West African side with only Ademola Lookman boasting more goals than him.

The 30-year-old was part of the Nigerian team that won the bronze medal at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations and will be seeking to lay his hands on the trophy when they face Ivory Coast in the final of this year’s edition on Sunday.

He currently plies his trade with PAOK Thessaloniki, having moved to the club last summer,

and has featured in 22 games across all competitions this season.

The Nigeria international has also contributed to the success of the Greek side this season, as they sit atop the Super League Greece and have qualified for the knockout phase of the UEFA Europa Conference League.

He’s been leading PAOK to top of Greek Super League and Europe Conference League, he’s very happy there — but the Saudi interest for summer is strong.

StarTimes to Beam Eagles vs Elephants Match Live in HD The AFCON 2023 final is upon us, and the tension is thicker than this February harmattan!

The match between Nigeria and Ivory Coast will be aired this Sunday at 9pm, live and in HD on StarTimes’s Sports Premium and Beta Sports channels for as low as N1500 weekly and StarTimes-ON mobile app.

While bookmakers favour the Super Eagles of Nigeria, with odds swaying slightly in their direction, the Elephants of Ivory Coast stand ready to charge and rewrite the script.

This clash promises not just a battle for the coveted trophy, but a captivating duel of tactical finesse, unwavering determination, and passionate home support.

The Super Eagles entered the competition with low expectations from Nigerian fans but have defiled all odds to be the Centre of attention in the country.

Osimhen’s blistering pace, strong defence and keeper Nwabali’s dominance have been key factors in their success.

The Ivorians, roared on by a

passionate home crowd, have transformed from a poor start in the group stage to a force to contend with. Nigeria defeated Ivory Coast in the group stage match.

While the odds favour Nigeria, the final is far from a foregone conclusion. Both teams possess unique strengths and weaknesses. The Eagles boast firepower. The Elephants have the home advantage and tactical unpredictability, but can they withstand the Eagles’ aerial threat?

1,000 Bet Turns to VIP Dream as Rukevwe, Spurs Boss Questions Proposed Introduction of Blue Cards Oyedayo Win All-Expense-Paid Trip to AFCON Tottenham boss Ange dissent and tactical fouls, such as struggle to understand why there Postecoglou does not think proposed plans to trial blue cards for sin-binned players will “make any difference” to the game.

Postecoglou says he “doesn’t understand the urgency” to bring in new rules.

It comes as football’s lawmakers Ifab delayed plans to release information about four proposed trials following talks with world governing body Fifa.

“A football match has a life of its own. There are mistakes, flaws and imperfections,” said Postecoglou.

The planned trials would have seen players shown blue cards for

Giorgio Chiellini’s cynical tug on Bukayo Saka for Italy against England in the Euro 2020 final.

Players shown a blue card would have to leave the field for 10 minutes and players would be sent off if they received two blue cards, or a blue and a yellow card. If passed into the laws of the game, the introduction of a blue card would mark the biggest single change in managing player discipline since red and yellow cards came into force at the 1970 World Cup. However, Postecoglou is far from convinced by the merit of the idea.

The Australian added: “I

is this urgency all of a sudden to bring in new things. I don’t know if there’s much wrong with the game as I see it and why a different colour card will make any difference.

“Most of the other sports are trying to speed up their game and I don’t know why we are trying to go the other way.”

When asked about the proposed trial, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp added: “It doesn’t sound like a fantastic idea in the first moment.

But actually, I can’t remember when the last fantastic idea came from these guys (Ifab) - if they ever had one.”

BetCorrect, a leading online betting platform, is thrilled to announce that it has sent two of its esteemed users on an exclusive, all-expense-paid VIP trip to witness the electrifying African.

The lucky winners, Oyeniran Oyedayo and Innocent Rukevwe, were selected from over 3000 participants who engaged in BetCorrect’s exciting promotional campaign.

The promotion, which commenced on January 5th and concluded on February 4th, garnered immense

enthusiasm from BetCorrect’s user base. The final announcement was made on February 5th through a live broadcast on radio, where the fortunate winners were revealed to the anticipation of thousands of listeners after a raffle draw had been carried out and winners selected randomly.

Innocent Rukevwe selection is particularly noteworthy, as despite having only one entry in the draw, luck favored him, showcasing the fairness and transparency of BetCorrect’s selection process. Meanwhile,

Oyeniran Oyedayo, with multiple entries, also secured his spot for this unforgettable experience.

The VIP package curated by BetCorrect includes round-trip flights, luxurious accommodations, exquisite dining experiences, guided tours of prominent landmarks, and coveted VIP seats at the stadium during the highly anticipated African Cup of Nations Finals. Additionally, both winners will enjoy a host of exclusive perks and surprises throughout their stay, ensuring a truly memorable and immersive experience.

NFL Super Bowl 2024 live on DStv

It’s almost here! DStv is that will see the league’s top football teams each won their AFCON 23 Final: Super Eagles to Defy bringing the 58th annual franchises competing to hold respective conference title games showdown between the top the coveted Vince Lombardi this past weekend. These two Cote D’Ivoire’s Threat Live on GOtv American Football teams. Trophy. Extending beyond titan franchises last competed Eleven years after the Super become continental champions Victory on Sunday will see Eagles triumphed as AFCON champions, they will get another chance to add a fourth continental trophy to their cabinet on Sunday against Cote D’Ivoire.

The final of the 2023 AFCON will be broadcast live on GOtv. Stanley Nwabali’s heroic penalty saves handed the Super Eagles victory over the Bafana Bafana of South Africa in a keenly contested semi-final clash. Nigeria will be keen to

at the expense of the tournament host. Tune in SuperSport Football (GOtv ch 61) at 8pm on Sunday to watch the match broadcast live.

Sunday’s encounter is Nigeria’s 8th appearance at the final of the biggest continental showpiece, their first appearance since their last triumph in South Africa in 2013. The Super Eagles have won three and lost four AFCON finals.

them draw level with Ghana as joint-third most successful team in the tournament with four triumphs each.

Meanwhile, the third place match between South Africa and DR Congo will be broadcast live on GOtv. The two sides have faced each other on three occasions, each winning one apiece with a draw. Tune in SuperSport Football (GOtv ch 61) at 8pm on Saturday to watch the action.

The 2024 American National Football League’s Super Bowl takes place this month and will be broadcast live, exclusively, across Africa on ESPN (DStv ch.

218) and ESPN2 (DStv ch. 219) from 12:30 AM on Monday, February 12, 2024.

The game is available across all packages from Yanga upwards, one of the most celebrated events on the U.S. sporting calendar, the annual championship game

sport, the Super Bowl is a truly global cultural event, with high-entertainment value accompanying a nail-biting game.

Whether this will be your first time watching the Super Bowl or 58th time, here are a few things you need to know: The reigning champions, Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers will once again compete in the NFL’s championship match as the two

against each other four years ago, with the Chiefs claiming victory.

This will be the first time the Super Bowl will be played in Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, which opened in 2020. It is also the first time the big game will be played in the state of Nevada at all, in the city synonymous with the world’s biggest casinos, world-leading entertainment, neon signs and Elvis Presley fandom.

Saturday, February 10, 2024

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Price: N400

MISSILE

Group to Nigerians “The north is solidly behind President Bola Tinubu and will continue to support and cooperate with him, for the actualisation of his Renewed Hope Agenda.

The current administration of President Tinubu inherited a lot of problems from the past administration of Muhammadu Buhari which it is currently trying to address” –Chairman of the Arewa Initiative, Shehu Abdullahi Ma’aji

OKEYIKECHUKWU EDIFYING ELUCIDATIONS

okey.ikechukwu@thisdaylive.com

What Cardoso Cannot Do T he new Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has, so far, demonstrated a hands-on determination to make a difference regarding the fate and fortunes of the Naira.

The forces arrayed against him and his team include the following: (1) A volatile and economically insensitive political environment, (2) Elite consumption patterns, (3) Overall low national productivity, (4) Limited public understanding of the difference between fiscal and monetary policy issues, (5) Incredibly high demand for the dollar and, very importantly, (6) The new-found use of the dollar as a major Store of Value.

The points I made on this page on November 15, 2021, Under the title “What the CBN Cannot Do” are even more poignant today, as the new leadership of the bank grapples with great odds today. Those points are so relevant, and so painfully responsible for the crisises of the moment that the article under reference will be reproduced in large measure here; so that Cardoso does not draw undeserved flack for the systemic, contrived and institutionalized shadowboxing that has taken over the profile of our national currency.

Here we go, as was said here two years ago.

“The CBN cannot do much about the value of the Naira, for as long as we produce very little, consume much that is not produced here and retain a monocultural economy that is driven by a leadership elite that focuses on distribution and consumption, rather than production. The calls for diversification of the economy have been on for over two decades now. These calls have been so strident, repetitive, and over-dramatised by successive government. That is why, today, the concept has become all but threadbare, tiring, boring and of little interest to many people.

Yet the point remains, that only the diversification of the economy, redemption of our national road infrastructure, reversal of the current state of insecurity in the land, rescuing the power sector, making realistic and sustainable investments in education and health, among other critical interventions, can save the national currency, the national economy and the people.

Looking at some of the issues in detail, it is a matter of record that general insecurity and banditry have been undermining the massive national investments in agriculture for years now. Banditry has laid waste massive farmlands, reduced farmers’ access to their farms and their farm produce, in addition to outrightly wiping out or chasing away large farming communities.

When financial outflows into the agricultural sector do not yield the expected returns due to insecurity, the projected gains in terms of food availability, food security and forex earnings from food exports go up in smoke.

Thus a “silo” conversation on diversification of the national economy, especially with agriculture in focus, which does not also simultaneously address insecurity and national road and transport infrastructure is an exercise in self-delusion. You do not drive foreign exchange earnings by designing wonderful projections and making speeches about them in airconditioned halls, when farmers cannot go to their farms.

It is the same thing, that is, misplaced priorities and wrong leadership orientation, when many states of the federation mistake investments in health and education infrastructure for actual investments in “education” and “health services.” They need to be told that brand-new health centres, schools, new classroom blocks and massive stockpiling of teaching equipment are procurement contracts. They do not translate into investment in health and education unless, and until, these states also have commensurate and possibly higher investments in health workers, teacher recruitment, teacher skills upgrade, training of new teachers and retraining of old teachers.

An investor who spends money setting up new baking ovens and launching them is not a baker.

Bakeries produce and deliver edible bread. So, state

Cardoso governments that are awarding construction contracts, importing furnishing material for new public and private facilities, have no idea of how much damage they are doing to their states and to the national economy. They are not offering needed health services or producing the needed human capital for development. When misapplied funds are retired under the heading “investment in health” or “education and human capital development,” the people and Nigeria are swindled. But we are digressing.”

The foregoing, which was said over two years ago, reads like it was written for the first time this morning.

The reason it sounds so fresh is simple: Nothing has changed. The problems are still the same today.

The article under reference continued thus. “That the value of the naira continues to plummet, as I write, is not the work of the devil; no! That many big and small businesses have lost value and shut down, is

Cardoso is no magician. The man is swimming in very turbulent waters.

Besides policy support, he needs resolute political backup as he takes the necessary hard decisions. Take them he must.

because of high replacement cost for goods sold out and their inability to obtain long-term facilities that would make sense in a Third World economy.

To understand the “replacement cost” narrative, let us suppose that you sell bicycles. If you buy fifty bicycles at twenty thousand Naira each, that would mean that you spent one million naira to stock up your shop. If you sell the bicycles at twenty-five thousand naira each, it will mean that you have made a profit of two hundred and fifty thousand Naira on your current batch of bicycles. It is up to you, whether to keep aside your profit of two hundred and fifty thousand naira, or buy more bicycles; after removing other costs. Whichever way you look at it, or whatever you decide to do, you have enough money to “replace” the bicycles you sold.

Now imagine what would happen if, after selling your 50 bicycles you discover that the price of bicycles has jumped from twenty thousand naira apiece, to N50,000 apiece! That is a 150 per cent increase in bicycle prices. This means that, all of a sudden, you will now need N2.5 million to buy the same number of bicycles! It also means that your “replacement cost” has moved up astronomically. If you do not have the new replacement cost, and your original business capital can only get you twenty bicycles, your business has lost value by a whopping percentage.

Which means that 80 per cent of the shop space may not be needed anymore. Which means that at least 50 per cent of you workforce may have to be laid off. Which means that property rate for shops, and related, real estate will drop at the same time that young traders are becoming jobless and declining income is becoming the norm. Which means that some parents won’t be able to pay school fees, etc., etc. Which then further means that most sellers who still have some old stock will do “anticipatory” mark-up, because of the difference between their original “procurement cost” and the new replacement cost.

That is the reality of the Nigerian wholesale and retail trade economy and situation today. This is in addition to the fact that more is being imported from outside than what we are sending outside for sale.

But assuming that, by some as-yet-unknown magic, the CBN grabs the naira by the neck and yanks it

back to one dollar to one naira, what then? Will this increase national productivity, diversify the economy, or remove the fact that the problem is much broader than the CBN as such? Will it remove the fact that our foreign exchange problems are connected with our taste patterns, limited productivity, elite excesses and poor integrated national planning? With agriculture, education, health, power, tourism and security in the doldrums as major national challenges, we cannot save ourselves from the avoidable foreign exchange constraints the nation is saddled with at the moment.

A nation with a predominantly consumptiondrive economy cannot suddenly catapult itself into the Neverland of foreign exchange El Dorado. You make money from what you produce and sell, or from what you can do and be paid for. You also buy with what you have earned from either goods or services you offered. You get paid nothing when you produce nothing. You spend more than you earn when you produce and sell far less than you buy. The person who produces nothing and earns nothing, but buys a lot, must be getting the money for his purchases from somewhere. If in addition to producing nothing, the person also has some savings, then he must be depleting his savings. But what if this person also has no savings, in addition to producing nothing, that means he must be borrowing. And to borrow is to get credit for present needs, with payment deferred to a future date, right? Well, that is our lot in Nigeria today. And we are still borrowing!

The Igbo man will tell you that you do not borrow money in order to take the Ozo title, or to marry a wife. If you borrow for either of these endeavours, how about maintenance – and other matters arising?

But we are digressing, again!

It is largely because we are consuming more than we are producing, and also buying more than we are selling, that the speculation for “phoney money” and profits without productivity have overrun the land. Thus arises the predicament of nations and individuals with “unbalanced” market profile and appetites. Thus also stands the crisis of the Nigerian state and economy today, in bold relief. Thus also shall it remain, no matter the ingenuity and efforts of its central monetary and fiscal regulatory mechanisms, until the right things are done.

Truth be told, our monocultural economy, or overdependence on one major source of foreign exchange revenue, is a drawback that can only be remedied by real diversification of the economy. We are yet to see the alleged gains, or the promised food sufficiency, of the tenure or Adesina as Minister of Agriculture, or the food exports of Audu Ogbe’s intervention.

Are we producing enough to save the Nigerian economy? Is our foreign exchange capacity not constrained because we are not producing, or exporting enough? What is the impact of our energy problems on overall national productivity? If I must buy an industrial generating set in order to set up a big business outfit, and a pepper grinder must also do the same in order to be in business, will the demand for generating sets of all makes and sizes not remain?

And will this not mean a continuous demand for forex by importers to buy generating sets from outside the country? And what do you expect when the outflow for all sorts of things, including furniture and kitchen napkins, is not only higher but continues to rise even as the inflow is smaller than the outflow and also dwindling?

As a farmer trying to water and nurture the naira, the CBN “alone” cannot rescue a currency that is surrounded by thorns, dangerous weevils and inclement weather.”

With the above coming from my intervention of two years ago, I conclude today by pointing out that Cardoso is no magician. The man is swimming in very turbulent waters. Besides policy support, he needs resolute political backup as he takes the necessary hard decisions. And take them he must.

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