SATURDAY 17TH FEBRUARY 2024

Uzoka-Anite Announces $30bn Foreign Investment Commitments in Eight Months

Reveals Shell to expand operation in Nigeria Nigerian Bottling Company to invest $1bn in five years

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja The federal government yesterday

said it had in the past eight months received over $30 billion as commitment by foreign investors

to be ploughed into the economy.

Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite,

made this disclosure yesterday in Abuja, at the second edition of the Ministerial Press Briefing Series

coordinated by Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammad Idris.

She also repudiated claims that Continued on page 5

Fubara, Eno, Otti, Keyamo, Obaigbena Sympathise with Herbert Wigwe's Parents...

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Tinubu Approves Upgrade of Health Infrastructure at UCH, LUTH, 13 Other Teaching Hospitals...

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Senate: NASS Ready to Legislate on State Police If It Will Address Current Challenges Declares Nigerians will determine if parliamentary will replace presidential system of govt

Chuks Okocha, Kingsley Nwezeh, Sunday Aborisade in Abuja, Segun James and

Sunday Ehigiator in Lagos The Chairman, Senate Committee

on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, yesterday, said both chambers of the National Assembly

are ready to amend the nation's constitution to accommodate state police if the decentralisation of the

country's security architecture would end kidnappings, banditry, terrorism and other crimes being experienced

in Nigeria.

Continued on page 5

FG Pleads as NLC Declares 2-day Nationwide Protest over Growing Economic Hardship, Insecurity Labour charges govt to introduce policies to address workers’ suffering Naira depreciates further to N1620/$ on parallel FX market See story on page 5

WE SHARE IN YOUR GRIEF… Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara (left), consoling mother of late Herbert, Mrs. Stella Wigwe and the residence of the deceased parents in Lagos…yesterday

SS… L-R: Chairman & Editor-in-Chief ofTHISDAY Media Group and ARISE News Channel, Prince Nduka Obaigbena; Chairman, Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, Mr Idaere Ogan; father of late Herbert, Pastor Shyngle Wigwe, and Chief Executive Officer of Chapel Hill Denham, Bolaji Balogun, during a condolence visit to the Wigwes family home in Lagos…yesterday AYODEJI OWOLABI

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Tinubu Approves Upgrade of Health Infrastructure at UCH, LUTH, 13 Other Teaching Hospitals, FMCs Directs establishment of oncology, nuclear medicine centres, critical healthcare expansion projects AU appoints president champion for community health delivery partnership Deji Elumoye in Abuja President Bola Tinubu has approved the immediate upgrade of key health infrastructure and equipment in the teaching hospitals and Federal Medical Centres across all six geo-political zones in line with his administration’s vision of overhauling the health and social welfare sector for enhanced service delivery to all Nigerians.

According to a statement issued yesterday by the presidential spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, upgrading

health infrastructure and equipment was top priority of the President's Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative.

To advance the landmark effort, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in collaboration with the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) would carry out the comprehensive upgrade of cancer-treatment infrastructure and other critical developments in six tertiary hospitals across several geopolitical zones, in addition to the

full renovation and expansion of prior investments to improve broad-based access to high-quality healthcare in all six geo-political zones of the federation.

Six teaching hospitals across geopolitical zones have been marked for the establishment of oncology and nuclear medicine centres per facility as part of President Tinubu's bid to ensure that world class cancer diagnosis and care is accessible across the country.

The beneficiaries include University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, University of Nigeria (Nsukka)

Teaching Hospital, Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina, University of Jos Teaching Hospital and Lagos University Teaching Hospital.

The statement added that 10 critical health care service expansion projects across the fields of radiology, clinical pathology, medical and radiation oncology, and cardiac catheterization will be carried out in 10 hospitals across all geo-political zones.

The hospitals include North-West: Reference Hospital, Kaduna — (Radiology, clinical pathology, medical and radiation oncology),

South-East: Medical Diagnostic Centre Complex, Enugu — (Radiology, clinical pathology, medical & radiation oncology), North-West: Usman Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto — (Diagnostic and intervention radiology, clinical pathology, and cardiac catheterization), SouthWest: University College Hospital, Ibadan — (Diagnostic and intervention radiology, clinical pathology, and cardiac catheterization) and SouthSouth: University of Uyo Teaching Hospital — (Radiology and clinical

pathology).

Others are North-East: Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital, Bauchi — (Radiology and clinical pathology), South-South: Federal Medical Centre, Asaba — (Radiology and clinical pathology), North-Central: Harmony Advanced Diagnostic Centre Complex, Ilorin — (Radiology and clinical pathology), North-Central: Jos University Teaching Hospital — (Radiology and clinical pathology) and North-East: Federal Medical Centre, Nguru — (Radiology and clinical pathology).

Fubara, Eno, Otti, Keyamo, Obaigbena Sympathise with Herbert Wigwe's Parents Wale Igbintade Three state governors, a former governor and a serving minister were among prominent Nigerians that yesterday paid condolence visits to the family of the renowned banker and philanthropist, Dr. Herbert Wigwe, who lost his life in a tragic helicopter crash in the United States on Friday, February 9th 2024.

Wigwe alongside his wife Chizoba, first son Chizi and former Chairman of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, Bimbo Ogunbanjo all met their end in the ill-fated flight that crashed along the California- Nevada border.

Among the dignitaries who visited yesterday were the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara; Abia State Governor; Dr. Alex Otti; Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, and Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.

Other dignitaries present at the house of the Wigwe’s included the Chairman & Editor-in-Chief of THISDAY Media Group and ARISE News Channel, Prince Nduka Obaigbena; former Governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke; former Managing Director of defunct Oceanic Bank, Cecilia Ibru, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Lagos State Chapter, Rev. Stephen Adegbite, and Dr. Joseph Nwobike.

Also at the residence, was the paramount ruler, HRM King Blessing Wagor Wagidi XL Nye Nwe Ali of Isiokpo Ancient Kingdom, who led other title chiefs, including, Nwobike,

a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, to the house.

Keyamo came in a coaster van alongside the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku and some management and members of staff FAAN. In his condolence message, Eno wrote: "To my brother Herbert, you came and impacted your world and left it better than you met it. May your memory live forever. May God grant everyone particularly your aged parents the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. Rest in peace my brother".

Also, Fubara in his condolence message wrote, "what a great loss, the Lord giveth and the Lord taketh.

May their souls rest in peace. Amen."

In his message, Otti wrote: "In everything, we are admonished to give thanks. Thank you God for the rare gift of Herbert and his wife and son. They were inseparable, even death could do them no separation May their souls rest in peace."

In his message Keyamo wrote, "My brother, you left my office in Abuja before you embarked on this fatal trip. You promised to return but alas you left us. The dreams we spoke about will never die. Adieu."

For her part, Kuku in her condolence message wrote, "the man with the dreams, you may have left us but your dreams remain with us.

Writing this is hard but your legacy will forever continue. I looked forward for more deliberation but the Lord knows best."

ACCEPT OUR CONDOLENCES… Governor Alex Otti of Abia State consoling mother of late Access Bank GMD, Mrs. Stella Wigwe, at the family’s house in Lagos…yesterday

FG PLEADS AS NLC DECLARES 2-DAY NATIONWIDE PROTEST OVER GROWING ECONOMIC HARDSHIP, INSECURITY Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja, Dike Onwuamaeze and Ugo in Lagos The federal government yesterday appealed to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to shelve its planned two-day national protest against alleged government's non implementation of the agreement reached on palliatives to cushion the effects of the removal of fuel subsidy on workers and general public, which labour had argued was fueling economic hardship in the country.

Responding to THISDAY’s enquiry, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, was quoted by her

Special Adviser on Media to have said: " We are reaching out to NLC and TUC to ensure that the issues are resolved and that the situation is not allowed to escalate. Federal government is giving them assurances that it is working hard see that it does not renege on the agreement reached with organised labour."

Earlier yesterday, NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero, who addressed journalists in Abuja, yesterday, on the resolutions of the National Executive Council meeting of the labour movement held yesterday morning, said organised labour was displeased by government's continued delay in executing the agreement it reached

SENATE: NASS READY TO LEGISLATE ON STATE POLICE IF IT WILL ADDRESS CURRENT CHALLENGES Adaramodu stated this while addressing journalists in Abuja yesterday.

This was just as security experts, Civil Society Organisations, (CSOs), and Nigerian Federalists, have commended President Bola Tinubu and the 36 state governors for considering to push for a legislation that would lead to the creation of State Police.

Also, yesterday, the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and political organisation, Afenifere, insisted on restructuring the political system in the country, even as it lauded the National Assembly for waking up to the reality of the need to cut costs of governance in Nigeria.

Tinubu on Thursday met with state governors in Abuja, during which they considered the possibility of setting up state police which is against what is contained in the nation's constitution that placed it on the exclusive legislative list.

Equally, a bill seeking to effect a change in the system of governance of Nigeria from the present presidential to parliamentary system passed through the first reading on the floor of the House of Representatives on Wednesday. Titled, "The Bills

Proposing Constitutional Alterations for a Transition to Parliamentary System of Government", the bill was sponsored by 60 Members of the House of Representatives led by Hon. Wale Raji (APC) representing Epe Federal Constituency in Lagos State - and 59 others.

At a press conference that was later addressed by Hon. Abdulssamad Dasuki from Kebbe/Tambuwal Federal Constituency, Sokoto State, the sponsors of the bills asserted that the presidential system that was used to supplant the parliamentary system ran in the First Republic meant an, "adoption of a new system of government, theoretically fashioned after the presidential system of the United States but in practice, imbibed the uttermost attributes of military rule".

Speaking further, Adaramodu said the constitution review committees of the red chamber would soon be inaugurated for the purpose of amending some aspects of the nation's laws.

He noted that the Senate was ready to read the body language of Nigerians and come up with laws that would make lives meaningful

AYODEJI OWOLABI

to them.

Adaramodu said, "The parliament is to make laws and the laws that the parliament will make will not be generated outside of the interest and aspirations of Nigerians.

"So, if either the federal government or the state governors or whoever wants state police, so be it. We are ready to review our laws to accommodate it.

"The Senate is about to inaugurate the constitution amendment committee and then when we now put the panel in place, members will now go out there and meet up with all the critical stakeholders in Nigeria within the sectors, traditional rulers and so on and so forth.

"So, when they now meet and then we aggregate and we know that this is what Nigerians want; that is the law that we are going to make.

"Our laws would represent what the people want and it must be the people's law. Once it is going to be the people's law, whatever kind of police that we want in Nigeria that Nigerians want that is what the National Assembly will give to them."

Adaramodu, however said the

state houses of assembly and the governors would still have a crucial role to play because at least, 24 out of the 36 states of the federation must vote in support of any amendment to the constitution before it could be signed by the President.

He explained, "Still on Constitution amendment, we need 24 states of the federation to concur with us. So it does not end up with the National Assembly.

"Although it starts from the National Assembly, it will still go to the states before it comes back to the National Assembly for further legislative process before it will go to the presidency for assent. So it is not a one-way lawmaking.

"So, as Nigerians are desirous through their governors and then the presidency that Nigeria policing must be rejigged then we have to find something to do about it so that we can ensure that there is peace in our land.

"Definitely we are going to follow suit. By the time our committee which the Senate President will be putting together soon will be inaugurated."

with the workers since October, 2023.

This comes just as it appeared that impact of recent measures introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to halt the slide of the naira exchange rate were yet to be felt as the nation’s currency weakened further to N1620 to a dollar on the parallel FX market.

Nigeria's inflation rose to a 21-year high of 29.9 per cent in January 2024, which according to National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) data, was the highest since 2003, as prices of goods and services continued to skyrocket.

Speaking further, Ajaero said although organised labour was yet to formally propose an amount for the new minimum wage, but as long as the Naira continued its current free fall in the exchange market, the workers would demand for an upward review of the amount even above the N1 million he had been quoted to have said.

Apart from ratifying the February 23 deadline for commencement of actions in protest against federal government's apparent foot dragging in the implementation of agreement with labour, Ajaero said the NEC meeting resolved that NLC would embark on a two-day national protest beginning from February 27.

In a communique jointly signed

by Ajaero and the Acting NLC General Secretary, Ismail Bello, the labour movement said it's, "NEC meeting unanimously noted its deep disappointment and condemned the actions of the federal government in refusing to implement the agreements.”

Ajaero said the NLC NEC also reaffirmed the 14 days-notice issued the federal government within which to implement the agreement and address the mounting crisis of survival in Nigeria.

UZOKA-ANITE ANNOUNCES $30BN FOREIGN INVESTMENT COMMITMENTS IN EIGHT MONTHS oil major, Shell was planning to sell off its offshore asset as precursor to its departure from Nigeria.

Rather, the minister insisted that the company was expanding its operation in the country and increasing its onshore assets.

She said the country also intended to host other delegations and interested parties from other countries armed with investments.

She noted that the investments and several other pledges would not have been possible if President Bola Tinubu had not taken the bold step to extricate the country from the grip of double subsidies that were stinging the economy.

She said the investments and other reforms, including the N200 billion Presidential grant to start ups will boost the economy and begin to take effect before the end of the third quarter of 2024.

"Our bilateral engagements

have been fruitful and have led to significant investment announcements and partnership opportunities for Nigerian trade.

"A notable example is the G20 summit in India, where a $14 billion worth of FDI inflow to Nigeria was announced and being actualised. Since then, we have seen the Confederation of Indian Industries visiting Nigeria to further explore identified investment opportunities.

"These engagements with India, Germany, Netherlands, UAE, South Africa, and others have opened up avenues for investment and the establishment of joint regulatory protocols.

"Since the President started travelling to engage with the international community on how to deepen investments, we have received a lot of investment pledges and commitment, including from the oil and gas sector.

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NEWS

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

PALM OIL MILL INAUGURATION… L-R: Immediate past governor of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa; Deputy Governor, Delta State, Mr. Monday Onyeme; Governor of Delta State, Mr. Sherrif Oborevwori; Chairman, Norsworthy Farms and Agro Allied Industries Limited, Dr. Gabriel Ogbechie; and his wife, Mrs. Godrey Ogbechie, during the inauguration of the 10 metric ton per hour Palm Oil Mill in Akwukwu Igbo, Delta State .. recently

Umahi Counters FIRS’ Chair, Says Tinubu Hasn’t Stopped NNPC’s N2.59tn Road Tax Scheme Minister to meet Dangote, BUA, others over escalating cement prices Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja The Minister of Works, David Umahi, yesterday countered remarks by the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji, voicing his opposition to the controversial N2.59 trillion Road Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme introduced by the Muhammadu Buhari administration.

Umahi spoke in his office in Abuja, after a meeting with Adedeji and the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, (NNPC), Mele Kyari, represented by the company’s Chief Financial Officer, Umar Ajiya.

A statement by Umahi’s spokesman, Uchenna Orji, said the ministry, FIRS and the NNPC have also agreed to prepare a joint memo to President Bola Tinubu, in efforts to salvage the scheme and to suggest ways to make it more efficient.

One of the suggestions, the statement noted, was that the process would now be channelled through

the National Assembly for approval.

Last Wednesday, Adedeji had faulted the three-year-old scheme introduced through Executive Order 7, 2021, during his appearance before the Senate Committee on Finance, along with NNPC’s Ajiya.

The Senator Sani Musa-led committee had invited the two officials to shed light on the implementation of the scheme despite the poor state of federal roads across the country.

But while the NNPC said N664 billion had been spent so far, the FIRS boss hinted that the scheme was unlawful and should be discontinued.

“The mandate of FIRS lumped with execution of tax credit scheme for road construction, is to access, collect tax and remit it into the federation account and not to appropriate it for any purpose through executive order.

“It is not the duty of FIRS and NNPC to be paying contractors. The Ministry of Works should be in line with its core mandate, allowing to award road contracts and pay for

Regard Your State of Residence as Home, Barau Tells Northerners Living in South Sunday Aborisade in Abuja The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, has tasked northerners living in the Southern part of the country to always be united and support the communities they are residing in for national unity and development.

Barau, according to his media aide, Ismail Mudashir, made the call when he hosted leaders of the Hausa communities in the six states of the South-west in his office at the National Assembly complex, Abuja.

He said Nigeria, a country with diverse ethnic groups, requires peace, unity and brotherhood among its various ethnicities, adding that the constitution of the country has given the right for the citizens to live wherever they want, provided they will be law-abiding.

He said, "We are all aware of the fact that you are living peacefully with people there in the South. All we want from you is to continue to support the states you are living in for peace and unity to be maintained.

"You have told me your problems and challenges. I will look at them and see how I can play my role in solving them. What I want to

implore you is that you should regard the states you are residing in as your home."

Commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for releasing grains to cushion the rising cost of food items in the country, he urged governors and local government chairmen to take a cue from the President.

"He has done what is expected of him. Mr. President is a very kind person. He has been doing this even before he became the president. So, as always, this time around too, he demonstrated that good quality.

"What is needed here is that everyone should be on board, particularly state and local governments. State governments are now doing very well.

"They are getting more money because of the removal of fuel subsidies. They are also reaching out to the people in their states to be giving out food items to those in need.

“I am urging all governors to take a cue from our president; and the local governments as well.

Because the federal, state and local governments all must make sure that we deal with our problems in a collective manner," he said.

them...We should stop increasing speed towards the wrong direction,” he stated.

But the statement pointed out that Umahi restated the commitment of the federal government to the implementation of the scheme.

“The minister said that President Bola Tinubu has not only said that the implementation of the tax credit scheme should continue, including

private, NNPC and NLNG, but has also approved the review of the projects under the scheme due to inflation.

“The minister said the statement of the chairman of FIRS that the project would be completed, but would not be expanded was misconstrued by some media quarters as saying that the projects under the scheme would be stopped,” it added.

It quoted Umahi as further reiterating that the scheme is highly beneficial and that the implementation framework is encapsulated in an executive order of the federal government.

Part of their agreement, it said, was that all the NNPC projects on road infrastructure as started, should not be expanded, but should continue to the tune of N2.59 trillion.

“It was also agreed at the beginning of this executive order, and it was very clear that the N2.59 trillion was not the total cost of the project. Sometimes, it's about 40 per cent funding, sometimes it's about 50 per cent funding.

“So, ab initio, the cost of the project up to completion was not N2.59 trillion. Now, we have scoped the entire project and then put a review on it, and the funding gap is N2.7 trillion.

Ize-Iyamu Withdraws from Edo APC Gubernatorial Primaries Pledges to support any candidate that emerges Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City A frontline governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, yesterday, withdrew his ambition to contest the party primaries slated for today to pick a candidate that would fly the party's flag in the September 21 governorship election.

Ize-Iyamu, a two-time governorship candidate of the PDP and APC against the incumbent governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, said he decided to withdraw after consultation with family, political associates and supporters, pledging however, to support any candidate

chosen by the party.

He thanked President Bola Tinubu for his fatherly role and the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party for constituting an authentic screening committee, which screened the 12 aspirants after the initial jamboree that was highly criticised The statement reads in part: "Few months ago, after extensively interacting with family, friends, political associates, and supporters, I joined the 2024 Edo State gubernatorial race as a result of my passion and commitment to the cause of rescuing the state from its current condition of decrepitude.

"I entered the contest as a

progressive democrat, with an open mind to keenly contest and accept the result of a process that is fair, credible and transparent. I appreciate the commendable effort made by the National Working Committee (NWC) of the APC to correct the erroneous impression maliciously created by certain persons that some aspirants including myself had been disqualified from the gubernatorial contest.

"The NWC constituted the authentic screening committee and all twelve aspirants who purchased and completed the nomination forms were successfully screened and subsequently issued clearance

certificates. This step was praise worthy and helped in restoring our integrity in the eyes of the public."

Continuing, he said: "Having been cleared to contest, I regrettably wish to announce my withdrawal from the race. Although painful, this decision has become imperative after an exhaustive consultation with my family, friends, political associates and supporters. I make this sacrifice in the interest of the peace and unity that the party desperately requires at both state and national levels. I humbly appeal to the good people of Edo State to accept my decision which is very personal and I promise to be there for them at all times.

Nigeria, UK Partner on Retraining of Health Workers Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja Nigeria and the United Kingdom have flagged off a collaborative venture aimed at updating the professional skills of the country's health workforce.

Speaking during the formal launch of the health workforce training programme in Abuja, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Mohammad Pate, said the programme was part of the effort to reposition the country's healthcare system and

to fill gaps in health workforce.

He also said that the initiative will help to fast-track the attainment of universal health coverage.

The minister said: "In addressing these identified gaps, the ministry has devised strategic priorities aimed at fortifying the health workforce and overall health system. These priorities include strengthening governance, stewardship and accountability of the workforce, enhancing the functionality of human resource for health information systems

(HRHIS) for effective health workforce planning, ensuring production of sufficient number of health workers, optimising recruitment, utilisation, retention and performance of available health workers and reinforcing, coordination and partnership for human resources for health agenda.

"I am pleased to formally endorse the global health workforce programme. We recognise the potential of (GHWP) to align with our national health workforce strengthening agenda."

Under the management of the Tropical Health and Education (THET), the minister said the GHWP will play a crucial role in addressing the country's health workforce challenges.

"I am pleased to formally announce the launch of the Global Health Workforce Programme in collaboration with THET. This partnership signifies commitment to shared vision of a robust health workforce, resilient health system and realisation of the universal health coverage.

Police Nab Wanted Kidnapper after FCT Minister Placed N20m Bounty

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

Police Operatives of the FCT Command attached to the Antikidnapping unit yesterday, raided two kidnappers’ camps bordering Nasarawa and Abuja via Kuje Area Council.

A statement by FCT Police Command said operatives dislodged the camps and arrested one Saidu

Abdulkadir popularly known as Dahiru Adamu, who was the gang leader and one of the wanted suspects of the kidnapping syndicate paraded by the police command on February, 14, 2024.

It stated that the bandits on sighting the police operatives, opened fire and engaged the police in intense gun duel and were eventually overpowered.

Preliminary investigation revealed

that the suspect masterminded the kidnap and killing of one Mr. Sunday Yahaya Zakwai, the district head of Ketti village.

It revealed that the two kidnap victims - Habu Yakubu and Isufu Abubakar - who earlier abducted from Kwaita village through Pegi District of Kuje Area Council, were rescued unhurt during the raid at the kidnappers den.

"Preliminary investigation by our command revealed that the suspect masterminded the kidnap and killing of the District Head of Ketti community in AMAC, Mr Sunday Yahaya Zakwai,” it added.

He said the arrest of Adamu was a huge success for the command and the FCT administration, which he said would restore peace and security in the territory.

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GLAD TO MEET YOU… L-R: Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Transportation, Marine, Blue Economy, Olufemi Oloruntola; Minister of Transportation, Senator Saidu Ahmed Alkali; Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun; Ogun State Head of Service, Mr. Kola Fagbohun and Commissioner for Transportation, Gbenga Dairo, during the minister's visit to the governor in his office at Oke-Mosan,Abeokuta... recently

World Leaders React as Russian Opposition Leader, Alexey Navalny Dies in Prison Peter Uzoho with agency report Imprisoned Russian opposition leader, Alexey Navalny, yesterday, died after collapsing and losing consciousness in the remote penal colony north of the Arctic Circle where he was serving a long sentence, the federal prison service disclosed.

Kremlin spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, said Vladimir Putin has been briefed on the death of Navalny, a fierce critic of the Russian president.

Kira Yarmysh, a spokesperson for Navalny, said his lawyer was on the way to the IK-3 penal colony, located in Kharp, in the Yamalo-Nenets region, according to Aljazeera.

Navalny's aide Leonid Volkov, alleged that Russian authorities published “a confession that they killed” him in prison.

Maria Zakharova, the spokesperson for the Russian Foreign

Ministry, wrote on her Telegram channel that the West had already arrived at “conclusions” without forensic evidence.

Reacting to the development, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine said Navalny was “obviously killed by Putin.”

Speaking from Berlin, where he was signing a security deal with Germany, he added that Putin does not care who dies as long as he maintains his position at the top.

Vice President Kamala Harris of the United States said Navalny’s death, if confirmed, would be “a further sign of Putin’s brutality.”

“Let us be clear: Russia is responsible,” she said at the Munich Security Conference in Germany.

Speaking before Harris, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said if reports of Navalny’s death were accurate, they underscored

Abiodun Lauds FG's Plan to Link Industrial Clusters By Rail Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has said that plans by the federal government to connect industrial zones in the country through rail lines, if successfully implemented, would reduce pressure on the nation's highways and prolong their lifespan.

The governor also noted that the resuscitation of the narrow gauge from Ibadan to Abuja, when completed, would give investors the opportunity to wheel cargo all the way from Lagos to Kano State and improve trade and commerce.

According to a statement, Abiodun stated this yesterday when he received the Minister of Transportation, Senator Saidu Ahmed Alkali and some commissioners for transportation across the country who were in the state for the 18th edition of the National Council on Transportation.

Abiodun commended the minister for the bold steps he is taking to

reposition the transportation sector of the country, noting that the plan by the Ministry of Transportation to resuscitate the Kaduna to Kano line would further open up the country for commerce.

"I am very glad about the laudable achievements under your watch, the initiatives that you're championing, the intervention you have sought from the Chinese to resuscitate the Kaduna to Kano line so that you will now have the connection, all the way from Lagos, Ogun, Ibadan, Abuja, Kaduna and Kano.

"You admitted to me that you are thinking of how to connect our industrial zones together so you can de-emphasis vehicular transportation whilst connecting the Badagry Port to the rail line that will connect with the Lagos to Kano line, also thinking of a line that will go from Lekki port to Ijebu-Ode and connect to Kajola.

Russia’s “weakness and rot”.

“His death in a Russian prison and the fixation and fear of one man only underscores the weakness and rot at the heart of the system that Putin has built,” Blinken said on the sidelines of the conference in Munich.

“Russia is responsible for this.”

European Council President,

Charles Michel, said the Russian dissident “fought for the values of freedom and democracy” and made the ultimate sacrifice.

“The EU holds the Russian regime solely responsible for this tragic death.”

The Canadian Foreign Minister, Melanie Joly, said reports of Navalny,

“gave his freedom in the hopes of a better, more democratic future for the Russian people”.

“Reports of his death are a painful reminder of Putin’s continued oppressive regime,” Joly added.

Jan Lipavsky, the Minister of Foreign Affairs for the Czech Republic, wrote on X that Russia was treating

its citizens like it treats its foreign policy.

“It has turned into a violent state that kills people who dream of a better future, like Nemtsov or now Navalny – imprisoned and tortured to death for standing up to Putin,” he said, referring to assassinated Putin critic Boris Nemtsov.

Concern as FCCPC Seals Sahad Stores Premises over Alleged Dubious Price Tags Chuks Okocha and James Emejo in Abuja The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) yesterday sealed Sahad Stores at Area 11 in Abuja, for allegedly short-changing customers through misleading price tags on their products.

However, the development has elicited concerns as the Founder of the Stanbic IBTC Bank, Mr. Atedo Peterside, on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle wondered if the move would not scare investors.

According to Peterside, his

question to “those on the federal government’s economic team was if sealing up of an Abuja store is: Are these types of moves not likely to frighten away investors (local and foreign)?”

The closure of Sahad Stores came amid efforts by the President Bola Tinubu–led administration to address factors currently contributing to food inflation as well as rising prices of other commodities.

The enforcement was led by the FCCPC acting Executive ViceChairman, Adamu Ahmed Abdullahi, who accused the supermarket of misleading pricing practices, charging

customers prices that differed from those displayed on the shelves.

Citing the Council’s Establishment Act, he said the company risks a fine of over N100 million if proven to have contravened the laws while the directors of the company themselves are liable upon conviction payment of N10 million each or imprisonment of six months or both.

Abdullahi, reportedly stormed the stores at about 9:20a.m. with heavily armed security operatives and interrogated the price of some goods which were found to be different from the price on the system.

He, therefore, ordered the

evacuation of all staff from the sixstorey building, after an engagement with the representative of the stores’ management.

According to the FCCPC enforcement team, there were different prices on the same goods from the same manufacturer, while some goods from the same manufacturer but different brands had the same price tag on the shelf - whereas the prices in the computer system were different for the different brands.

The FCCPC boss insisted the store must first be sealed despite pleas from the management.

Magu: FCMB Meets Condition for Appeal against Judgement in Favour of Abuja Cleric, Omale Alex Enumah in Abuja First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has complied with the order of the Court of Appeal, Abuja, directing it to deposit the sum of N540 million as conditions for staying the execution of a judgement entered against it by a High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The bank, it was learnt, paid the money on February 8, into an interest yielding account of the Chief Registrar of the court, in Premium Trust Bank.

According to a correspondence between counsel representing parties in the appeal, the bank took the step in a bid to prevent the initiation of

contempt proceedings against its Managing Director, Mrs. Yemisi Edun.

Recall that the Court of Appeal in Abuja had ordered FCMB to deposit the sum of N540 million in an interest yielding bank as a condition for hearing its appeal against the judgement of Justice Yusuf Halilu of a High Court of the FCT, Abuja.

Halilu had in a judgment on October 4, 2022, awarded the sum of N540 million against the bank for defaming a clergyman, Emmanuel Omale of the Divine Hand of God Prophetic Ministry and his wife, Deborah.

The court in its judgement had held that the bank recklessly breached the duty of care it owe to the

claimants – Omale, his wife and their church - by making false claim that a former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu, paid N573 million into the church's account.

Dissatisfied, FCMB in 2022, appealed the judgement and asked the appellate court to "stay the execution of the judgment" pending the determination of its appeal against the judgement.

However, delivering ruling in a motion for "stay", on February 1, 2024, a three-member panel of the Court of Appeal, presided over by Justice Muhammed Shuaibu granted a conditional stay of the execution of the judgement by ordering the

bank to pay the judgement sum of N540 million into an interest yielding account in the name of the court's Chief Registrar.

"The application is granted as prayed in terms of the first prayer in the appellant's motion filed on 3/11/2022.

"Consequently, conditional stay of execution of the judgment is hereby granted to the appellant.

"The condition being that the judgement sum shall be deposited into an interest yielding bank account of the court to be opened by the Chief Registrar of this court within 48 hours of the grant of this order," Shuaibu held.

Okwuosa: Funding Constraint, Infrastructural Deficit, Others Deprive Indigenous Firms of IOCs' Divested Assets Peter Uzoho In the wake of divestments by the international oil companies (IOCs) operating in Nigeria, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Oliserv Group of Companies, Mr. Emeka Okwuosa, has stated that indigenous firms are being encumbered in securing the divested

assets due to a number of factors.

Okwuosa listed the major constraints depriving local firms the opportunity to secure the divested IOCs' upstream assets as lack of requisite finance, infrastructure deficit and lack of the needed skilled human capital to run the assets similar to the way the oil majors were operating them efficiently.

The Oilserv boss made the observations in a presentation tagged: 'Financing Africa’s Energy Companies', which he delivered at the just-concluded 8th Sub-Saharan Africa International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (SAIPEC), held in Lagos.

The conference organised by the Petroleum Technology Association

of Nigeria (PETAN) had the theme: 'The Next Steps: Accelerating African Content'.

Represented at the event by the Managing Director of Oilserv, Mr. Nnanna Anyanwu, Okwuosa identified financial constraints as a major challenge.

"Securing divested assets often

involves significant financial resources, upfront payments, investment commitments, and operating expenditure.

"This has been a constant hindrance to acquiring those assets. A sizable number of indigenous companies lack the financial capacity to compete or access financing on favorable terms,"

he said.

He stressed that limited access to capital remains a huge challenge to indigenous oil firms, given the difficulty of accessing capital from traditional sources such as banks, private equity firms, or capital markets, whom he said, prefer green energy investments.

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NEWS

SCHOOL SAFETY STAKEHOLDERS’ DIALOGUE… L-R: Area Commander, Area C Command, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Oladunni Ayoola; Divisional Police Officer, Aguda, CSP Uro Justin and Principal Officer, Lagos State Safe School Technical Working Group, Mr. Odeyemi Richard, during the School Safety and Security Stakeholders' Dialogue held at Surulere, Lagos...yesterday

Court Orders AGF to Re-open Investigation, Prosecution of Dele Giwa's Killers Orders FG on protection of journalists Alex Enumah in Abuja Nearly 40 years after, a Federal High Court in Abuja, yesterday, ordered the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice to re-open investigation and prosecution of the murder of a renowned journalist, Dele Giwa.

The order is coming after years of efforts by eminent Nigerians including the late Gani, Fawehinmi, SAN, who had sought the fiat of the Attorney General of Lagos State to prosecute the case.

Besides, the court also ordered for the investigations of other journalists killed in the discharge of their lawful

duties, with the aim of ensuring perpetrators are punished in line with the provisions of the laws.

The order was made by Justice Inyang Ekwo of a Federal High Court in Abuja, yesterday, while delivering judgement in a suit filed by the Incorporated Trustees of Media Rights Agenda.

The group had dragged the AGF to court for the enforcement of fundamental rights of media practitioners to safety as guaranteed by the 1999 Constitution and African Charters on Human Rights.

In the Motion on Notice marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/1301/2021, and filed on behalf of the plaintiff by their

NDLEA, Homeland Security Raid Seedy Areas in Abia Capital, Umuahia, Burst Drug Rings Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia The rings of illicit drugs business flourishing in the seedy spots of Umuahia, the capital of Abia State, have been bursted following sting operations jointly conducted by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the State Homeland Security.

During the raids carried out at a private residence on Arochukwu Street and a hotel in the notorious "Down Below" slum behind Okigwe Park, the joint security team seized large

amounts of hard drugs, including cocaine, heroine, cannabis,and methamphetamine (mkpurumili).

Aside from the seized illicit drugs, the security operatives also arrested five suspects comprising two males and three females while a total sum of N500,000 was recovered.

Speaking at a news conference in Umuahia, the Deputy Governor of Abia, Ikechukwu Emetu, who was flanked by the state Commander of NDLEA, Amos Adelanwa, expressed delight at the successful outcome of the operation.

He said that it was a testimony of the commitment of the Alex Otti administration to stamp out all forms of criminalities in the state.

Emetu emphatically stated that illicit drugs "is the bedrock" of all criminal activities hence the decision of government to tackle the menace as part of the sustained war on criminalities.

“Abia is not a haven for any criminal. To all drug kingpins, the directives from the Governor of Abia State are very clear, stay away from Abia State, we don’t need you," he

warned.

"You (drug barons) are not part of the development of the state. Drugs can’t develop Abia State. We want our youths to be safe and very useful to the Government of Abia State," he added.

Referencing the success achieved by the Abia government in flushing criminals out of the Lokpanta Cattle and other parts of Umunneochi Local Government, the deputy governor assured that the same treatment would apply against hard drug merchants.

lawyer, Mojirayo Ogunlana-Nkanga, the applicant sought a declaration that the killings of various journalists and media practitioners in Nigeria is a violation of their fundamental right to life.

This right, according to the group, is encapsulated in Section 33 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Article 4 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (Ratification and Enforcement) Act (Cap A9) Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, among other reliefs.

In the affidavit in support of the suit, the group listed some of the journalists murdered in the course of their duty to include Dele Giwa, killed on October 19, 1986; and Bolade Fasisi of National Association of Women Journalists, March 31, 1998; Edward Olalekan of Daily Times, murdered on June 1, 1999; Omololu Falobi of The Punch, murdered on October 5, 2006; Godwin Agbroko of Thisday, on December 22, 1999; Abayomi Ogundeji of Thisday, August 17, 2008; and Edo Sule-Ugbagwu of The Nation, April 24, 2010.

Delivering judgement in the

suit, the court held that being the Chief Law Officer of the federation, the AGF is under obligation to prosecute and penalise killers of media practitioners in the country.

Justice Ekwo, who observed that the AGF did not file any process to counter the arguments of the applicant, held that since the group’s arguments were not controverted, such arguments would be deemed to be true.

“It is pertinent to note that the respondent has neither denied that these killings have taken place or that these persons were not journalists or media practitioners.

“The position of the law is that affidavit evidence which is not challenged or controverted however, is deemed admitted and can be relied upon by a court,” the court held.

While stating that the applicant had established its case by credible evidence and ought to be entitled to the reliefs sought, Justice Ekwo subsequently made an order directing the Federal Government of Nigeria to take measures to prevent attacks on journalists and other media practitioners.

Court Nullifies Sanwo-Olu Lauds Commissions’Contributions to Lagos’Devt Supreme AMCON's Takeover of Lagos Hotel

Funmi Ogundare

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has lauded the leadership of the state’s Commissions and Boards, describing them as progressive partners in the realisation of the vision for a greater Lagos.

The governor stated this in a keynote address he delivered at the second edition of the Commissions Summit organised by the Lagos State Civil Service Commission, recently.

The theme was "Statutory Commissions/Boards as Catalysts in Repositioning the Public Service in Lagos State."

The Governor, who was represented at the event by the Chairman, Lagos State Civil Service Commission, Mrs. Olubunmi Fabamwo, disclosed that the realiation of the THEMESPlus Agenda of his administration rests on a virile Public Service.

He expressed confidence in the various Commissions and appreciated their leadership, saying: “I am happy with what you are doing, we will continue to work together for the realisation of a greater Lagos which we have promised to deliver to every Lagosian.

Sanwo-Olu encouraged the Commissions/Boards to sustain the culture of excellence which Lagos has been known for over the years in the area of acceptable standards, processes and procedures.

In his Goodwill Message, the Chairman, House of Assembly Committee on Establishments, Training, Pensions and Public Service, Hon. Oladele Ajayi noted that the Summit will foster the

standardization of processes and procedures in the application of enlightenment guidelines in the State Public Service.

He charged members of the Commissions/Boards to use the opportunity of the Summit to formulate new policies that will reposition the Public Service to enhance excellence in service delivery.

Speaking earlier, the Chairman,

Lagos State Civil Service Commission, Mrs. Olubunmi Fabamwo whose address was read by Commissioner 1, Civil Service Commission, Mr. Adesina Odeyemi, recalled that the maiden edition of the Commissions' Summit with the theme: “Fostering a Professional and Productive Public Service for the Lagos State Brand” was adjudged very successful as very salient issues were frankly deliberated upon.

Enugu IPAC Elects New Leadership The Enugu State Chapter of the Inter Party Advisory Council, IPAC, Thursday, elected new leadership that will pilot the affairs of the political group with Obioma Nnamani of the BOOT party emerging the Chairman.

The electoral committee chairman and the returning officer, Ogbonna Uchechukwu, who briefed journalists after the conduct of the election said, "We're here and happy to inform the world that we have completed the assignment given to us by the National Leadership of IPAC with respect to the conduct of Enugu election.

"I can confirm that the election

was held at the Enugu office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) which is the stipulated venue for the election in accordance with the guideline of IPAC. "After the election, which was monitored by INEC, in the presence of security agencies, the following persons emerged as the new executives of IPAC in Enugu State: "Obioma Nnamani of BOOT party emerged as the Chairman, Elvis Cajethan China-Zamugwoke of ZLP is the Deputy Chairman, Afamefuna Samuel of the APP emerged the Secretary, while Aliyu Adamu Muhammad of NNPP is the

Deputy Secretary.

"Others are Chukwuma Stella Nneamaka of ADC, who was elected the Financial Secretary, Ezeah Magnus of SDP is the Treasurer, Ikeh Kenneth Odoh of APM is the Organising Secretary, Ugwu Chiedozie Louis of NRM is the Publicity Secretary, and Augustine Nnamani of PDP is the Legal Adviser."

In his acceptance speech, the new chairman, Nnamani, expressed happiness over his emergence and thanked the national leadership of IPAC, INEC and the security agencies for supporting the conduct of a peaceful election.

Alex Enumah in Abuja The Supreme Court yesterday nullified the taking over of the Best Western Hotel, Lagos, by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON).

A five-member panel of the apex court voided the action of the federal government's agency, shortly after it dismissed AMCON's appeal challenging the judgement of the Court of Appeal in favour of the respondent.

Justice Adamu Jauro, in a judgement delivered yesterday, held that the appeal by AMCON was lacking in merit and ought to be dismissed.

AMCON had approached the apex court to set aside the decision of the appellate court against it in respect of the agency's takeover of the hotel belonging to Suru Worldwide Ventures Nigeria Limited.

A Federal High Court in Lagos had ordered the takeover of the company's property by AMCON for not paying the loan obtained from the defunct Oceanic Bank.

This was following a suit by AMCON, praying the court to order security agencies to offer it protection to enable it to exercise its possessory rights as a legal mortgagee under

the Deeds of Legal Mortgage, over Suru Worldwide Ventures Nigeria Limited’s landed properties.

But Suru Worldwide Ventures Nigeria Limited appealed against the judgement on the grounds that it was denied a fair hearing because it was not joined as a defendant.

Delivering judgement in the appeal, Justice Ugochukwu Ogakwu, held that the failure of AMCON to join Suru Worldwide Ventures Nigeria Limited as a defendant in its suit before the Federal High Court rendered the proceedings leading to the takeover order a nullity.

The court also ordered that the matter be returned to the Federal High Court for a fresh hearing.

Dissatisfied, AMCON approached the apex court to challenge the judgement of the appellate court.

However, the apex court in the judgement read by Justice Emmanuel Agim, held that the appeal was unmeritorious and subsequently dismissed it.

"I find no merit in the appeal and it is accordingly dismissed. The judgement of the Court of Appeal setting aside the judgment of the trial court for trial to start denovo, is hereby affirmed".

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FEBRUARY 17, 2023 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INSIGHT

Some progress made...

Ebuka Obi’s Prophecies and Destruction of Families

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Ebuka’s Zion Ministry to get him to resolve the matter he Advocacy for Alleged Witches draws the Ĵ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ without success.

The Advocacy for Alleged Witches contacted the ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ comedian who shared the video on social media, through ¢ȱ ȱ Ȭ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱȁ Ȃȱ ȱ him, the woman, and her two daughters. There is an ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ongoing discussion on how the AfAW would support ȱ Ȭ ¢ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ and rehabilitate her. However, the woman’s rehabilitation ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ would not be complete until Ebuka is held accountable for ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ his actions and prophecies. ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ The Advocacy for Alleged Witches urges the Nigerian ȱ ȱ ě ǰȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ government to sanction Pastor Ebuka and his Zion ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ministry for poisoning family relationships. Ebuka Obi ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ uses his prophecies and ministries to fuel occult fears and ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ ȱ ȱ ¢ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ anxieties, accusations and persecutions in communities.

As this case has shown, Ebuka’s Zion Ministry thrives ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ Ĵ ȱ on cold reading, deception and exploitation of poor gull ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ Ȭ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ible people. His ministry incites assault, abandonment and ȱ ȱ ¢ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱŘŖŘŗǯȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ Ȭ Ȭ ǰȱ ȱ Ĵ ȱ Ȃ ȱ ȱ ¢ǰȱ violence against innocent men and women. The Lagos ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ state government should call Ebuka Obi to order now.

Ebuka’s wretched and misguided witch hunting ministry ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ must be stopped, before it is too late.

As a Christian, she stated that she only prayed to God Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged Witches which for her needs. And that she had no idea or knowledge of aims to end witch hunting in Africa in 2030 how to harm anyone through occult means. According to her, they publicized in the community that Ebuka’s prophecy was pointing in her direction, vaguely implying that she was responsible for the daughter’s ailment. The so-called pastor Ebuka was told to be specific, to name who exactly was responsible for the ailment. But Ebuka refused to mention the person, saying that T H E SAT U R DAY N E W S PA P E R EDITOR OBINNA CHIMA it would cause division in the family.

DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU But the woman claimed that their family MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO was already divided. Ebuka’s prophecies DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU had caused much damage even without CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN mentioning the person. The woman stated THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE that while battling with her ailment, her son told her that the daughter-in-law disclosed that she was the one responsible for her sickness. The entire family eventuT H I S DAY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D ally agreed that she was the one who EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA caused the ailment. The accusation had GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, made the children shun and abandon her ISRAEL IWEGBU, EMMANUEL EFENI while she continued to suffer.

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE Her first son told her to stop calling DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH him, and that she was a bad mother. She ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI urged the Igbo public for help, to publicize CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI her case, and pressure Ebuka to come and DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO resolve the confusion and damage that TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com his prophecy had caused in her family.

The woman stated that she had gone to

Ogwashi-Ukwu: Give Us Light

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ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ Ȭ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ě ȱ ȱ ȱ Ĵ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱę¡ȱ ǰȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ Ĵ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ Ȭ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¡ Ȭ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱę¡ȱ ȱ ǯ So many businesses are folding up because they depend on electricity. They cannot afford the high cost of fuel to sustain their businesses. Ogwashi-Ukwu is the headquarters of Aniocha South Local Govt Area where the Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Ukwu is located. Many of the students are suffering. It is unfortunate that our political representatives are not bothered about our plight. If the capital of a local govt is being treated like this we are wondering what would be happening to other smaller communities in Aniocha South Local Govt Area of the state.

Feyisetan Akeeb Kareem, karfeyio@gmail.com

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The Cost of Peace

ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ¢ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ę ȱ ȱę ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ There is much to fear when a man who avoided his military service because of ‘sore feet’, bone spurs in his heels, tells Russia “In fact, I would encourage them to do whatever the hell they want. You got to pay. You got to pay your bills.” and this is a potential repeat Commander in Chief of the most powerful country, and probably military force, in the world. He was sidestepped by generals who used to steal papers off his desk so that he couldn’t sign orders they knew were wrong. This does not inspire confidence.

He is the bully in the playground who picks on the child who cannot afford the celebrity sneakers or the teacher who sends a student home because they don’t have the correct uniform on.

Is he the best of the best in the US? No! Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia

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NEWS

NERC, Presidency Harp on Closing Metering Gap to Boost Electricity Supply Commission anticipates sustainable, zero subsidy electricity market regime Peter Uzoho The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Power have stressed the imperative of having all electricity customers metered as a veritable way of attaining liquidity and sustainability in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).

Similarly, the power sector regulator said it was looking forward to having a buoyant electricity industry characterised by payment sustainability and zero subsidy regime.

The two federal institutions stated these in Lagos at the recently held first quarterly meeting of the NESI stakeholders for 2024, which was convened and presided over by NERC. The meeting was attended by investors and owners of power firms, relevant government agencies and consultants including the distribution companies (Discos), generation companies (Gencos), Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Nigeria Bulk Electricity Trading Company (NBET), meter asset manufacturers (MAPs) as well as representatives of the Minister of Power and that of the Special Adviser to the President on Energy.

Speaking at the meeting, NERC Chairman, Mr. Sanusi Garba, provided an overview of strategic direction for the power industry for the year 2024.

He specifically told the participating stakeholders that the meeting was expected to provide strategic direction for the NESI, review compliance since the last meeting, and give licensees a platform to discuss issues.

Explaining the key role of metering in addressing some of the challenges in NESI, Garba stated, "Metering is an issue. Without metering, the issue of liquidity will not be resolved. Customers want

to pay for what they consume. It is the single most prevalent complaint of customers.

"We cannot overlook the value of metering in the value chain, and we will continue to focus on how to close the gap because customers do not want to pay on the basis of estimated bills."

Corroborating the NERC chairman, the Commissioner for Finance and Management Services, NERC, Mr. Nathan Rogers, warned Discos not to cajole customers into paying for meters when they don't have meters in stock.

"If you collect customers' money, then you have to install meters for them at no additional cost regardless of when you install it. You must meter customers at the price it was when they initially paid. You can't charge them more," Rogers warned.

Team Lead (Power), Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Energy, Eriye Onagoruwa, pointed out that "There is a huge metering gap that needs to be bridged."

He maintained that "The Presidential Metering Initiative (PMI) is looking at bulk procurement of smart meters, developing homegrown systems of MDMS, reduction of ATC&C losses to globally accepted standards and stakeholders engagement to identify challenges facing the sector while carrying metering manufacturers along without compromising on cost, quality and delivery."

Also commenting, NERC Commissioner in charge of Legal, Licensing and Compliance, Dafe Akpeneye, said the commission expects Discos to to meter paid customers within 10 days.

He said, "Currently, there is a communication gap with customers. Once they pay, you need to communicate with them and give them an installation date.

Instead, the customer pays, hears nothing, and continues to wait in perpetuity."

Aiyedatiwa Flags Off Construction of Rural Roads in Ondo Fidelis David in Akure Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, yesterday flagged off the construction of three rural roads across the three senatorial districts of the state, saying it was in line with his commitment to the development of the grassroots and ensuring food security by constructing access roads to farms.

The governor while speaking at the project launch and groundbreaking ceremony of 15.5km Oda Cocoa Board - Camp 2 - Langbodo Road at Oda town, in Akure South Local Government Area, said the first phase of the project cuts across the three senatorial districts of the state.

He said the roads included Oda - Cocoa Board - Langbodo at Akure South LGA in the Central; Ode - Omi Ebute Iyara in Irele LGA for the South and Ifira Akoko - Afo in Akoko South East LGA for the North, stressing that the construction work will commence simultaneously across the three locations.

Aiyedatiwa, who assured that the second phase of the road contracts are expected to be awarded in the first quarter of the year and it will also cut across other LGAs in the state promised that his administration will continue to embark on more developmental projects for the benefit of the people of the state, especially at the grassroots.

The governor emphasised the need for all stakeholders to take ownership of the projects, stressing that the contractors handling the construction of rural roads must be closely supervised to

ensure that the quality of roads is not compromised under any guise.

He added that the fact that the roads have been in a deplorable state for many years makes it imperative that the ongoing intervention must be carried out to the expected threshold of standard.

INSPECTING BORDER MONITORING TECHNOLOGY.…

L-R: Principal Staff Officer to the Comptroller General of Immigration, Dr. Dotun Aridegbe; Comptroller General of Nigeria immigration Service, Caroline Wura-Ola Adepoju and Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, inspecting border monitoring technology at the Service's control room in Abuja... yesterday

TI Says Nigeria’s 400m Projected Population by 2050 is Demographic Nightmare Urges Nigerians to embrace idea of smaller family to boycott ravaging poverty Kasim Sumaina in Abuja Transparency International in Nigeria and Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) have described Nigeria’s population which is projected to reach 400 million by 2050 as a demographic nightmare.

The Executive Director, CISLAC/ Head of TI in Nigeria, Auwal Rafsanjani, stated this in Abuja during a Nigeria population conversation seminar organised by Population Matters in partnership with CISLAC/ TI-Nigeria.

He noted that while population

affects every facet of societal development, discussion around it remains uncommon in Nigeria.

He said time has come for Nigerians to begin to embrace the idea of smaller families to boycott ravaging poverty, youth unemployment, child mortality and other socio-economic upheavals.

Rafsanjani added that Nigeria cannot conceal the fact that with the current inadequate awareness on consequences of population at citizenry and policy levels as well as the unattended impact on national planning, the country has not

efficiently harnessed its population to achieve development goals.

He said, “In addition to the general leading causes of under-five mortality, studies have highlighted the survival probabilities, the impact of socio-economic, demographic and environmental factors as major threats to the survival of under-five mortality in Nigeria.

“While a significant function of girl-child education in Nigeria is to provide her with diverse basic knowledge, skills, and training which contribute to personal development and the overall national development,

more than 50 per cent of girls are not attending school at the basic education level, while one million girls drop out between the first and last year of primary school (UNICEF).

“In addition, Nigeria accounts for 20 percent of all out-of-school children in sub-Saharan Africa, with nearly 20 million out-of-school children (Malala Fund).”

Rafsanjani hinted further that “Likewise in Nigeria, about 53.40 per cent of youths are unemployed according to youth unemployment rates released by the National Bureau of Statistics in 2022.”

Court Delivers Judgement in Suit Seeking Sack of Alabi David as ALGON President on April 30 Alex Enumah in Abuja Justice Inyang Ekwo of a Federal High Court in Abuja, yesterday, fixed April 30 for judgement in the suit seeking the sack of Hon. Alabi David as the National President of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON).

Justice Ekwo fixed the date for judgement after taking arguments from lawyers representing various groups involved in the leadership dispute.

The Incorporated Trustees of ALGON, Hon. Abubakar Abdullahi and Hon. Shaban Ohinoyi Shuaib had sued the Attorney General of

the Federation (AGF), and Alabi David before the court challenging the emergence of David as National President of ALGON. The plaintiffs claimed that David is constitutionally not qualified to hold any position in ALGON being a Chairman of Bariga Local Council Development Areas (LCDA) in Lagos not listed among the 774 Local Governments in Nigeria.

At yesterday's proceedings, counsel to the plaintiffs, Bartholomew Okpara, asked the court to declare as illegal and unlawful, the occupation of ALGON presidency office by David who is the 8th defendant in the suit.

The lawyer argued that Nigeria

at the moment has constitutionally recognised 774 local governments out of which Lagos has 20 and Bariga LCDA not one of them.

He tendered a copy of Nigeria's Constitution where the 774 local governments are listed and ALGON Constitution where it is stipulated that only chairmen of constitutionally recognised local government chairmen can hold office in ALGON. He cited Sections 8 of the 1999 Constitution and Article 4 of ALGON Constitution as well as a Supreme Court judgement on the listed LGAs to buttress his arguments.

"Bariga LCDA is not one of the 774 Local Governments in Nigeria.

David, the 8th defendant in this suit, is from unrecognised local government and as such, not qualified to hold any office in ALGON." The lawyer prayed Justice Ekwo to invoke Sections 150 and 170 of the Nigerian Constitution to compel the AGF and others to ensure compliance with their statutory obligations by protecting ALGON from what he called impostors.

The plaintiffs’ lawyer canvassed that the General Assembly convened

by David on March 24, 2021, where purported resolutions, election and amendment were made be declared unlawful, null and void on ground of illegality.

USAID Awards Nigerian Firm $500,000 Co-investment Grant Segun James The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has awarded ReelFruit a $500,000 co-investment grant to help restore the company’s supply chain which had been adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nigerian-based nature’s bounty health products and the U.S. government also celebrated the opening of an 800-metric ton dried fruit processing facility in Ogun State.

USAID began its partnership with ReelFruit in 2021, and through the West Africa Trade and Investment

Hub project (Trade Hub), it awarded ReelFruit a $500,000 co-investment grant.

According to a statement by the U S Consulate in Lagos, the partnership supported 355 smallholder farmer networks across eight states in Nigeria.

The states include Adamawa, Edo,

Ekiti, Kaduna, Lagos, Niger, Ondo, and Oyo by providing training on good agronomic practices and directly purchasing their fresh fruits.

ReelFruit concurrently invested $2m sourced through a private equity fund to complete the dried fruit processing factory, scaling up its operations by almost 10-fold.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 17, 2024

TECH HUB

AYODEJI AKE 07056085642

Oluwole: Leadership is about Inspiring Those Around You to Attain their Potential In the world of management consulting, Tayo Oluwole is a distinguished figure known for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence and holds about two decades of management and leadership experience spanning multiple industries, including fast moving consumer goods, health management, insurance and management Consulting.

He is the Managing Partner and CEO of McTimothy Associates Consulting LLC, where he is dedicated to empowering individuals and organisations. In this exclusive interview, he shares insights into the world of management consulting and discusses how technology has fostered rapid development in the sector. Ayodeji Ake brings the excerpts:

C

an you tell us about your background and experience in the field of management and consulting?

I have nearly two decades of management and leadership experience in various industries, including FMCG, Consumer Durable, Health Management, Insurance, and Management Consulting. This diverse background and exposure have equipped me with a deep understanding of different sectors and industries, allowing me to bring a unique perspective to my work.

Technology has a pivotal role to play in all sectors, contributing to achieving rapid development. As an expert, how do you think technology has impacted major sectors like health management, insurance and management consulting?

There are success stories to tell about the role technology is playing across all sectors and we are still exploring and following the trends. Technology has, with evidence, played a pivotal role in sectors like health management, insurance and management consulting among others, contributing to rapid development. In health management, it facilitates efficient healthcare delivery and data management. In insurance, technology enhances risk assessment and customer service.

In management consulting, it aids data analysis, strategy development and decision-making.

Focusing on management consulting, how has technology helped to reshape the sector?

Technology has significantly reshaped the management consulting sector by enabling remote management consulting. Virtual collaboration tools, data analytics platforms and online communication have facilitated seamless interactions, breaking geographical barriers and allowing consultants to work remotely.

As an expert, do you think relying on technology playing management roles gives desirable results?

Relying on technology for management roles can yield desirable results when integrated thoughtfully. Technology enhances efficiency, data-driven decision-making and remote collaboration. However, a balanced approach, combining technological tools with human expertise, is crucial for optimal outcomes.

What are the challenges facing the management consulting sector and what do you think as an expert are practical measures that can be implored to address the challenges?

Challenges in the management consulting sector include adapting to rapidly changing technology, addressing cybersecurity concerns, and maintaining client trust. Practical measures involve continuous training for consultants on emerging technologies, robust cybersecurity protocols, and transparent communication to build and sustain client relationships. Embracing Artificial Intelligence for data analysis and insights can also enhance service delivery.

Oluwole

You’ve been described severally by your peers as a charismatic leader with a “Can-Do” spirit. How do you ignite your project teams and inspire creativity and commitment among team members?

It all starts with setting a high-performance standard for myself and my groups and leading by example. I believe in fostering a culture of optimism and determination, where challenges are viewed as opportunities for growth. I encourage my teams to think outside the box and empower them to take ownership of their work. I believe leaders need to release the eagles in their teams to fly high. It’s about instilling a sense of purpose and passion in what we do. And that’s usually the way I live and lead too.

Your record includes driving company gains and growing new businesses in various markets. What’s your secret to achieving such results?

It’s a combination of factors. First and foremost, it’s about having a vision, a welldefined strategy, and a clear understanding of the market dynamics. I believe in continuous learning and adaptability, which allows me to respond effectively to changing environments.

Building strong, multidimensional teams is also crucial, as they play a vital role in executing our strategies.

You’re the Managing Partner and CEO of McTimothy Associates Consulting. Can you tell us more about your organisation and its mission?

McTimothy Associates Consulting is dedicated to empowering individuals and organisations. Our mission is to provide high-quality consulting services that drive excellence and positive change. We believe in the potential of people, business owners and their businesses and work to unlock their capabilities and help them thrive. These we do via learning and development or capacity building, management audit, strategy crafting and execution, etc. Our mission is to enable the greatness of African businesses to make them world-class champions in their sectors.

Brand identity goes beyond superficial changes such as a new logo or color scheme; it is a heartfelt reflection of McTimothy Associates;

resolve to champion innovation, creativity, and service excellence. The new identity is a testament to the company’s core values, the enduring strength of its relationships, and its commitment to delivering practical, results-driven solutions. As McTimothy Associates enters this exciting new chapter, clients, and partners can anticipate a series of transformative enhancements. First and foremost, the company is determined to expand and elevate its service offerings, ensuring that clients consistently lead in industry best practices. This commitment reflects McTimothy Associates; dedication to empowering organisations with top-tier solutions that drive excellence. Additionally, the company will maintain its role as a beacon of thought leadership, providing clients with a steady stream of valuable insights and thought-provoking content. This thought leadership serves as a guiding light, assisting clients in navigating intricate challenges and seizing opportunities in an ever-evolving business landscape.

Furthermore, McTimothy Associates pledges to actively engage with its community of clients and partners. This entails fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and nurturing networking opportunities to enhance collective growth and development. In parallel, the company upholds an unwavering commitment to excellence, ensuring the delivery of the highest quality consulting and training solutions. By focusing on globally relevant curriculum development and engaging certified trainers, McTimothy Associates is dedicated to being a steadfast partner in every client’s journey toward achieving greatness and success. The team at McTimothy Associates is eager to embark on this journey with its new brand identity and expresses deep gratitude to clients and partners for their trust and support.

The company is resolute in its commitment to continue serving as the preferred partner for all management consulting and business training needs.

You’re actively involved in management consulting services. Can you share some of your specialties and areas of expertise?

My expertise covers a wide range of areas, including corporate strategy development, change management, marketing strategies and programs, leadership development, team building, P&L management, and learning and development. I’m deeply committed to helping organizations navigate challenges and seize opportunities for growth and transformation. For me, African businesses and corporations can attain transgenerational status and I am deeply committed to this happening in my lifetime in Africa.

As a leader, what advice would you give to aspiring professionals looking to make a significant impact in the corporate world?

I’d say always be open to learning and adaptability. Embrace challenges as opportunities and surround yourself with a diverse and dynamic team. But also remember that it’s not just about reaching the top but bringing others along with you. Leadership is about inspiring and enabling those around you to reach their full potential.

FG Seeks to Secure $3bn for Broadband To enhance the broadband infrastructure and connectivity in Nigeria, the federal government recently disclosed an ongoing discussion with the World Bank to raise $3 billion to fund additional 120,000km of fibre optic cables.

The Minister of Communications, Innovations and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, made the disclosure speaking recently at a stakeholders’ engagement held in Abuja.

He expressed hope that the funds would be raised in the next two or three years, adding that the project involved stakeholders from the private sector and would be delivered in the next three years.

According to him, it was imperative to seek investments in the nation’s digital backbone to facilitate access at affordable prices to the digital space for all Nigerians.

“We are here with critical stakeholders on how to attract investments and fund our broadband infrastructure. I am sure everybody that is listening to me probably understands that now we cannot do without technology on the internet; so, we all need quality access regardless of our location,” he said.

The World Bank Regional Director, (Infrastructure) West and Central Africa, Franz Gross, said the first phase of the project would involve laying 95,000km of fiber optic cables across Nigeria.

He added that would immediately improve access and digital services content in the country.

According to him, “We plan to set up a digital national broadband fund and to roll out about 95,000 kilometres of what we call middle mile cable.

That’s terrestrial cable in Nigeria to bring broadband to more parts of the country.

“I think Nigeria has about 35,000 kilometres of broadband cable. The idea is to add another 95,000, and what we’re discussing with the government is, well, what’s the best way to finance that?

“I want to say that rolling out fiber is part of the problem. What you want is fiber to bring low-cost digital access all over the country,” he added.

LASTMA Enhances Operations with Technology Solution The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has launched, ‘Ticket Alert’, a modern technology method of notifying motorists of outstanding fines accrued through traffic offences.

Making an official statement on X (formerly Twitter), recently, the agency noted that the new digital platform would make it impossible for defaulters to escape from clearing unsettled fines which must be paid within 30 days.

The statement read: “LASTMA is now equipped with modern technology to assist in identifying traffic violators, making it practically impossible to escape when they have pending fines on traffic offenses.

“Such traffic offenses as driving with expired vehicle license, roadworthiness or insurance, among others. “Once your vehicle is captured by the app and registers you as an offender with unsettled fines as a result of a traffic violation, you simply get a yellow sticker on your vehicle as a reminder to settle any outstanding fines within a 30-day end period.

“Note that failure to do so after the expiration of the 30-day ultimatum will result in your vehicle being impounded.

“LASTMA’s Ticket Alert is your friendly signal to settle up and enjoy a stress-free ride.

Join us in this road safety revolution! Together, let’s drive responsibly.”

Meanwhile, the agency has also concluded all arrangements to prosecute any skits or filmmakers caught using its uniform or its affiliated colour, kits and accouterments without any authorisation from the government.

It frowned at the demeaning manner in which movie and skit makers portray the agency in their movies and skits, using LASTMA uniform without recourse to Section 79 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2015 which criminalizes such unauthorised use.

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SATURDAY FEBRUARY 17, 2024 • T H I S D AY

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 17, 2024 • T H I S D AY

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 17, 2024

Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394 Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Regina Askia-Williams: Separation, Living in DV Shelter as Undocumented Immigrant was My Lowest Point Her days, notably on television, as an actress still evoke memories of prowess whenever it pops up.

Graceful in appearance, iconic, and remarkably charming, she effortlessly held sway. That’s Regina Askia, a former beauty Queen and one of Nigeria’s most admired movie stars. She takes Ferdinand Ekechukwu through some of her moments in the spotlight, disclosed the reason she left the industry (over two decades ago), and touched on her life and thriving medical practice in the U.S

Y

our name evokes memories of your days on screen, such that your fans would love to see you again. What do you think?

(Laughs)! We thank God for his grace. The children and fans of those days are all grown now and I keep running into them across countries in the world. The popular refrain is “thank you for making childhood a joy”. That’s just cute and that’s also a reminder of how far we have come, and how many years in- between.

There have been reports of you making a comeback to Nollywood in a movie Web, what’s been happening?

Oh! I did a cameo on Web; a small appearance in a movie that features Ramsey Nouah, produced by Wole Ogundare and his FUHZ ,W IHDWXUHV FRXSOHV DW GLͿHUHQW VWDJHV of relationships and the issues they face.

It has its share of lies and deceit. A web of broken trusts and family dysfunction.

Despite the fame and fortune, you seemed to enjoy in Nigeria, why did you relocate to the United States?

The fame and fortune was great for me at that age and time. As life evolves you have to make choices to guarantee a solid future. So, for a young girl coming up, fame and fortune was good. For the present as a mother of three amazing kids and a partner, being a Nurse Practitioner with my own medical practice is the best.

What about the present Nollywood fascinates you?

The fact that our authenticity holds true; we are telling our stories without “apeing” the foreign, with no apologies, as in this is who we are.

Can you recall some of your memorable acting and modeling moments?

They were many back then. I produced and sold a series on Insurance and a short soap that earned me heavy income from way back. I was one lucky girl.

Of all the roles you played, which one was your favourite?

I liked MOST WANTED, when I was doing it. It’s funny to see it today feeling “baaaddd” with our bibi guns. But back then?! +D :H KDG ÀQLVKHG ZRUN R ,W·V IDQWDVWLF to see how Nollywood has evolved. Did you see the movie where Chidi Mokeme was Scar?! Well played! Well done!

Lime light all in one lifetime. And the fact that my life is a testimony to the fact that hard work pays. A dream, a plan, a smart strategy and you are a winner. Leave the stage when the ovation is loudest and continuously reinvent yourself.

What do you consider the greatest LQÁXHQFH LQ \RXU OLIH" May God continue to bless my parents who made sure they gave me an education and positioned me to recognise and utilise opportunities. My mother has truly been the wind beneath my wings. My forever champion... With a woman like my mother, her quiet strength and spiritual prowess, you will conquer. *URZLQJ XS GLG \RX KDYH WKH ÁDLU IRU acting, singing or dancing?

Yes! My mother enrolled us in the Saturday Play House Program and the African Club Programs years back in Old Calabar. We enacted stage plays, sang and danced for our parents’ family and the public.

What’s a typical day like for you?

Buuuusssy!!! From the hospital unit, to my FOLQLF WR WKH KRPH WKHQ VFKRRO ÀQGLQJ WLPH to attend social events, etc. Out here time is money. Every hour must be accounted for by the dollar or by social capital.

How do you unwind?

That’s a sore point. I forgot to unwind.

Matter of fact I had neglected myself chasing the dollar until a health scare held up my mortality to my face. Now, I take time out to breath, to spa, to travel, cruise to relax.

High blood pressure untreated will lead to a stroke. Remember God gave you that body which houses your spirit, take good care of it. You would often hear arguments that ‘Regina is an ER Nurse, no she is a Nurse Practitioner in a nursing home, no she is my Primary Care provider I saw her just last Saturday’. They are all correct. At some SRLQW , ZRXOG JR WR P\ QLQH WR ÀYH DV DQ 13 LQ D QXUVLQJ KRPH ÀQLVK P\ URXQGV DQG KHDG RͿ WR WKH (PHUJHQF\ URRP DV DQ ER Nurse and on the weekends I would see patients booked at my clinic. When do I sleep, good question. It was not sustainable and my body told me – hey! Find time to unwind and enjoy your blessings.

What’s your view about Nigeria’s situation?

A hopeless tail spin, an intractable free fall. I feel that hopeless. I used to hold an LQWHUQHW SURJUDP ´2΀FH RI WKH &LWL]HQµ where we discussed Nigerian politics, society and civic responsibility. We would build a What does it feel being among those blueprint to success, a plan we would want talents – men and women – that birthed to see unfold in Nigeria. Then then travesty what we today call Nollywood? (my opinion) of an election happened. Since , ORYH LW , FRQVLGHU P\VHOI D SDWKÀQGHU RQ then, I have been mute. Wetin I wan talk many fronts, Nollywood being a major one. again? I taya for Nigeria matter.

There are many trends I birthed and folks make me smile when they talk about it.

What would you say are your low and high moments in life?

Which female actress at the moment Lowest moment was a family situation would you reckon with the Regina Askia where I separated from my husband, had class and style? to live in a DV shelter as an undocumented None! Everyone has their own special immigrant. It was a comfortable unit all to ÁDYRXU , MXVW EURXJKW PLQH HDUOLHU DQG ZDV my kids and me but it wasn’t home. To in the lime light earlier than most. have come from that, restart my life as it were, to become the owner of a thriving What would you say is your greatest medical practice (primary care and medical aesthetics) is possible only in America and achievement?

To have accomplished so much on so RQO\ E\ *RG·V JUDFH 7KDW·V GHÀQLWHO\ D many fronts - Education/Career/Family/ high point.

Regina Askia-Williams

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 17, 2024

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Tosin Clegg

07062816737 e-mail: tosinclegg@hotmail.com

Deyemi Okanlawon Targets N1bn Tickets Sales with Debut Production

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nown for his versatility and ability to portray a wide range of characters with authenticity and depth, Deyemi Okanlawon’s passion for his craft, combined with his commitment to making a positive impact in KLV FRPPXQLW\ KDV VROLGLÀHG KLV VWDWXV DV one of Nigeria’s most beloved and respected entertainers. With his talent, charisma, and dedication to excellence, he continues to inspire and uplift audiences both on and RͿ WKH VFUHHQ As 2024 unfolded, the actor brought WR SXEOLF NQRZOHGJH KLV ÀUVW HYHU PRYLH production via his social media platforms, ‘All’s Fair in Love,’ as he partnered with a few production companies for a truly compelling cinema experience.

7KH ÀOP IHDWXUHV D WDOHQWHG FDVW ZLWK Deyemi, Timini Egbuson, and Buhle Samuels in lead roles promising to be a captivating romantic drama that explores the complexities of love, relationships, and human nature. :LWK 2NDQODZRQ DW WKH KHOP WKH ÀOP LV expected to deliver a fresh perspective on timeless themes while captivating audiences with its engaging storyline and compelling characters. $V WKH ÀOP R΀FLDOO\ KLW WKH VFUHHQ RQ

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the 14th of February, 2024, Valentine’s Day, Deyemi has spent the last couple of weeks prior pushing and driving the compelling

QDUUDWLYH RI KLV ÀOP FXWWLQJ DFURVV DXGLHQFHV with social media engagements that have gathered over a million views across board. $LPLQJ WR PDNH D VLJQLÀFDQW PDUN LQ WKH entertainment industry by targeting a staggerLQJ 1 ELOOLRQ WLFNHW VDOHV WKH ÀOP LV H[SHFWHG to showcase the quality of storytelling and SURGXFWLRQ WKDW $IULFDQ FLQHPD KDV WR RͿHU The storyline follows Demi and Kanla, whose thriving fashion business and unshakable IULHQGVKLS VHHP WR GHÀQH WKHLU OLYHV +RZHYHU their world is turned upside down when they both develop feelings for the captivating Mbali, whose entrance into their lives is nothing short of a whirlwind. Unaware of their DͿHFWLRQV DW ÀUVW 0EDOL EHFRPHV WKH FHQWHU of their attention, sparking an intense love triangle. Things took a complicated turn when Mbali joined their company as a consultant, infusing the business with her own vision and charm. Yet, beneath her facade lies a dark secret, revealing that Mbali is not the Dking person she appears to be. Featuring other talented actors, including Ireti Doyle, Juliet Ibrahim, Adedimeji Lateef, Beauty Tukura, Venita Akpofure, Kunle Bamtefa, Gbubemi Ejeye, Kenzy Udonsenm, Oprah Okereke, DQG 7LPLOHKLQ 2MHROD 7KH ÀOP ZRXOG WUXO\ serve its value worth to its viewers and help drive the actors N1 billion cinema tickets aspirations.

Wunmi Toriola, Uche Ogbodo Partner 9jababy Fair Organisers

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he highly anticipated 9jababy Tradefair is gearing up for three actionpacked days, promising to bring together 10,000 parents, 100 retailers, 50 distributors, and 50 dynamic merchants, all converging under one expansive roof.

Set to take place at Ikeja, from March 29th to 31st, 2024, this event is poised to RͿHU DWWHQGHHV D FRPSUHKHQVLYH VKRZFDVH of products and services from the baby industry. Additionally, enlightening masterclasses, captivating brand activations, and workshops on essential parenting WRSLFV ZLOO EH RQ RͿHU In a strategic move to expand its reach, Abimbola Anifowose and Suleiman Omolabake, Co-founders of the fair, have inked ambassadorial deal with WZR SURPLQHQW ÀJXUHV LQ 1ROO\ZRRG Wunmi Toriola and Uche Ogbodo.

Speaking on the decision, Abimbola expressed admiration for the actresses’ passion and dedication to their roles as mothers, emphasising their ability to connect deeply with the fair’s mission. At a recent unveiling event, both Wunmi and Uche expressed their enthusiasm for the fair and pledged their full commitment to its objectives. They also committed

Wunmi Toriola, Motunrayo Oyemade, Labake Mujidat Sulaiman, Abimbola Anifowose and Uche Ogbodo

to leveraging their extensive social media SODWIRUPV WR DPSOLI\ SURPRWLRQDO HͿRUWV for the fair.

Addressing expectations for the event, Abimbola highlighted the meticulous process of vendor selection, ensuring that exhibitors

align with the fair’s commitment to excellence. She emphasised the importance of economic and environmental sustainability, stating that the fair promotes the use of reusable materials and implements waste reduction strategies.

Gospel Music Artiste, Toluwanisings to Tour US

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enowned gospel artist, Toluwanisings has garnered widespread acclaim with his successful released body of works, including hit albums such as “Elagbara, Ase Ti Jade, Aper’ami, Onibu Ore, and Ona Iye.” With each release, Toluwanisings has captivated audiences with his electrifying deep voice, leaving listeners and audiences mesmerised by his powerful performances.

Now, he is set to elevate his music career to new heights as he announces plans for a highly anticipated United States tour. Fans across the globe eagerly await the opportunity to experience his uplifting melodies and spiritual lyrics live on stage. Known for his

ability to transcend cultural boundaries and touch hearts with his music, Toluwanisings’ US tour promises to be a transformative experience for all who attend.

With his dynamic stage presence and soul-stirring vocals, he creates an atmosphere of worship and praise wherever he performs.

His music resonates deeply with audiences RI DOO EDFNJURXQGV RͿHULQJ D PHVVDJH RI hope, faith, and inspiration to all who listen.

As Toluwanisings prepares to embark on his US tour, fans can expect nothing short of an unforgettable musical journey. From intimate worship gatherings to larger-than-life concert venues, his performances are sure to leave a lasting impression on all who have the privilege of experiencing them ÀUVWKDQG

Toluwanisings

Amota Dking: Crafting Musical Legacy

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deleke Emmanuel Omosuyi, widely recognized as Amota Dking, views music not merely as a pastime or entertainment, but as an integral part of his lifestyle and a catalyst for personal transformation. Delving into his personal journey, the Afro-pop artist emphasised the profound impact of music on every facet of his life.

When asked about how he has cultivated dedication, perseverance, and resilience in his music career, Amota emphasised the importance of setting VSHFLÀF JRDOV DQG VWD\LQJ IRFXVHG on his vision. By maintaining clarity about his objectives, he can remain motivated despite challenges and setbacks. This unwavering determination has enabled him to navigate the complexities of the music industry and pursue his passion for creating music.

Adapting to the ever-changing music landscape is another crucial aspect of the artiste approach. With the advent of digital platforms and VWUHDPLQJ VHUYLFHV KH VWD\V ÁH[LEOH by embracing new technologies and utilising social media for promotion and connecting with fans. Additionally, collaborating with artists from diverse backgrounds has expanded his musical horizons and allowed him to reach new audiences globally.

5HÁHFWLQJ RQ KLV DUWLVWLF DQG SHUsonal journey, Amota highlighted the importance of authenticity. Being true to himself and expressing his unique voice in his music has been essential in building connections with listeners and cultivating a loyal fan base.

This lesson extends beyond music, shaping his approach to life by emphasising the value of authenticity in all endeavors.

Looking ahead, his aspirations for his music career are centered on creating meaningful and authentic music that resonates with listeners. He aims to evoke emotions and make a lasting LPSDFW RQ KLV DXGLHQFH RͿHULQJ WKHP solace, joy, or inspiration through his artistry. Continuously evolving as an artist and person, he is committed to contributing to the rich tapestry of music history while staying true to his vision and values.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 17, 2024

20

FOCUS

FX Crisis and Need to Stop Scapegoating Banks Festus Akanbi, in this report, captures the views of banking sector analysts who argue that the depletion of the foreign reserves should be blamed on the failure of the government to resolve the fallouts of the recent foreign exchange reforms and the voracious appetite of Nigerians for foreign goods and services instead of scapegoating Nigerian banks or reasons that have continued to defy logic, Nigerian banks have been at the receiving end of the foreign exchange management fiasco which has sent the naira on a tailspin, especially in the current year.

Analysts said instead of shifting the blame of the current FX crisis on banks, the federal government should be bold to accept the blame for the policy somersaults.

According to an Abuja-based financial analyst, the current problem should be blamed on the decision of the federal government which finds it difficult to resolve the emerging crisis from the recent reforms.

The foreign exchange reforms have created some complexities that the government finds difficult to handle. “It’s obvious the CBN doesn’t have a clue on how to resolve this problem. Shifting the blame on banks is disingenuous,” the analyst argued.

On Friday, a dollar was traded at N1,524.83 at the official market while it went for N1,575 at the parallel market.

Interestingly, some social commentators, without any concrete proof had alleged that banks should be blamed for frittering the nation’s FX reserves and that unless the Central Bank of Nigeria beams its searchlight on the banking industry, Nigeria will not be able to stem the current drift in the value of the Naira, which is a direct fallout of the FX scarcity.

And in one of the desperate measures recently taken by the apex bank, it recently ordered banks to cut their foreign exchange exposure as the naira plunges further. The net open position limit of foreign currency assets and liabilities “should not exceed 20 per cent short or zero per cent long of shareholders’ funds unimpeded by losses,” the regulator had said in a statement.

F

Reliance on Imports Strains FX Reserves However, some economic watchers insisted rather than making banks the fall guy, Nigerians’ taste for foreign goods and services should be blamed for the erosion of the foreign reserves and emasculation of the local currency.

They maintained that the growing taste for foreign education, goods, and services has significantly eroded Nigeria’s foreign exchange position over recent years.

This is because with an increasing number of Nigerian students seeking education abroad, substantial amounts of foreign currency are being spent on tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses in countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. This outflow of foreign exchange puts pressure on Nigeria’s currency reserves. It exacerbates its balance of payments deficit, making it more challenging to maintain a stable exchange rate and finance essential imports.

Furthermore, the preference for imported goods and services over domestically produced alternatives has contributed to the depletion of Nigeria’s foreign exchange reserves. From luxury items to basic commodities, Nigeria’s reliance on imports strains its foreign currency reserves and undermines efforts to promote domestic industries and economic self-sufficiency. The continuous drain on foreign exchange reserves weakens Nigeria’s economic resilience. It exposes the country to external vulnerabilities, making it susceptible to fluctuations in global market conditions and exchange rate volatility.

They added that on the other hand, frequent foreign medical trips by government officials and private citizens have a substantial impact on Nigeria’s foreign exchange savings.

According to analysts, the significant outflow of funds to cover medical expenses abroad drains the country’s foreign exchange reserves, exacerbating the existing economic challenges. It is a fact that government officials and private citizens often seek medical treatment overseas due to concerns about the quality

Cardoso and availability of healthcare services domestically.

This reliance on foreign medical care not only depletes Nigeria’s foreign exchange reserves but also highlights systemic issues within the country’s healthcare infrastructure, calling for urgent reforms to improve accessibility, quality, and affordability of healthcare services within Nigeria.

Cardoso: Foreign Education, Health Services Gulped $40bn in 10 Years Their argument was reinforced by this week’s revelation by the Governor of the Central Bank, Mr. Yemi Cardoso who put the total foreign exchange demand for education and healthcare by Nigerians at $40 billion.

According to him, the foreign exchange (FX) demand for education and healthcare in the past decade has significantly eroded the strength of the naira.

Analysts said rather than heaping the blame for the continuous erosion of the nation’s FX standing on banks, Nigerians should focus on the middle class, most of whom have their children studying overseas.

“As it is, you can hardly find a Nigerian home whose children are not in one foreign university or the other, with the attendant pressure on the forex market,” argued Mr. John Alonge, a Lagos-based financial analyst.

Alonge, however said banks cannot be totally exonerated from the blame in terms of the level of infractions levelled against some of the operators.

He pointed out that it is a fact that many of those with genuine FX request for BTA are denied and forced to approach the parallel market in some cases. However, he pointed out that such level of infractions is infinitesimal when compared with the impact of the appetite for foreign goods and services.

His position was corroborated by a Lagos banker, Mr. Stephen Ogunshola, who explained that as the number of Nigerian students abroad surges, so also does the rush for FX as parents resort to the black market given the challenge of going to the bank.

He said with the growing propensity of Nigerian rich men and members of the political class to take their health matters abroad with corresponding pressure on the forex market, the stage had long been set for the continuous depletion of the FX stock.

To corroborate this argument, Cardoso, in his presentation at the plenary of the House of Representatives, disclosed that between 2010 and 2020, foreign education expenses amounted to $28.65 billion while healthcare incurred $11.01 billion.

The apex bank governor had said, “mitigating a significant portion” of the FX demand “could have resulted in a considerably stronger naira.”

“Looking at the demand side of the exchange rate, it is important to note the growing number of Nigerian students studying abroad. In the 1980s and 1990s, the need for US dollars for their living expenses was minimal.

“However, recent data shows a significant change.

According to UNESCO’s Institute of Statistics, the number of Nigerian students abroad increased from less than 15,000 in 1998 to over 71,000 in 2015.

“By 2018, this figure had reached 96,702 students, as per the World Bank. Another report projects the number of Nigerian students studying abroad to exceed 100,000 by 2022. Additionally, the UK’s higher education statistic agency noted a 64 per cent increase in Nigerian students studying in the country, rising from 13,020 in the 2019/2020 academic session to 21,305 by the 2020/2021 session.

“Given this data, it is crucial to highlight that between 2010 and 2020, foreign educational expenses amounted to a substantial $28.65 billion, according to the CBN publicly available balance of payment statistics. “Similarly, medical treatment abroad has entered around $11 billion in costs during the same period. Consequently, over the past decade, foreign exchange demand for education and healthcare has totalled nearly $40 billion.

“Notably, this amount surpasses the total foreign exchange reserves of the CBN. Mitigating a significant portion of this demand could have resulted in a considerably stronger naira today.”

According to Cardoso, further breakdown shows that personal travel allowances accounted for a total of $58.7 billion during the same period, with the CBN disbursing $9.01 billion to Nigerians for personal foreign travel between January and September 2019.

To give credence to the narrative on the rise in appetite for imported goods and services, the CBN governor said the nation’s annual imports, which require dollars for payment, amounted to $16.65 billion in 1980, but by 2014, the figure rose to $67.05 billion, although it gradually decreased to $54.71 billion as of 2023.

Cardoso said food imports increased from $2.63 billion in 1980 to $14.84 billion in 2019.

In 1980, according to Cardoso, more than 75 per cent of the vehicles used in Nigeria were domestically produced by companies like Volkswagen in Lagos, and Peugeot in Kaduna, among others, however, presently, over 99 per cent of the cars driven are imported, necessitating dollar payments.

“Similarly, in 1980, the majority of the clothing worn was sourced from Nigerian textile mills in Funtua, Asaba, Kano, Lagos, and various other towns and cities. Today, nearly all the clothing worn is made from imported fabrics,” he said.

“Given the substantial demand for education, healthcare, professional services, personal travel, and similar needs, the exchange rate is bound to face ongoing pressure.

“From the aforementioned points, we can infer that the genuine issue impacting the exchange rate is the simultaneous decrease in the supply of, and increase in the demand for US dollars.”

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 17, 2024

PEOPLE Femi Adesina: I Thought of Deleting All My Social Media Accounts After Leaving Office Femi Adesina, who was Special Adviser Media to former President Muhammadu Buhari, in this interview speaks on his service to a man he admires, respects, and why he thinks his principal left Nigeria better than he met it. Adedayo Adejobi provides the excerpts:

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say, he must come and talk to us. After three major broadcasts on this issue, what else do they want?

President Buhari is not talkative, but not talking didn’t make him less efficient. He ran the country to the best of his ability.

hat was it like working with the President as his Special Adviser, Media?

It was the experience of a lifetime.Then I was a Nigerian journalist just like you, and then I got picked.

Most indices point to your principal as taking “Nigeria from top to bottom.” Can you discountenance that with a superior argument?

No, when he talked of Nigeria from top to bottom, he spoke of it in political terms. Top to bottom means, vote APC from President to the lowest position, which could be Councilor. Anybody that tries to input another meaning into that is just being mischievous. Top to bottom is a lingo he used in political perspective.

But you were the President, Nigeria Guild of Editors, Managing Director of a newspaper and a senior journalist?

I was at your level at the time. I grew in the profession to the glory of God, and you will also grow. So there I was, practicing and enjoying my profession and then I got invited to serve the President. If you get invited out of 200 million Nigerians to serve your country and your president, it can only be a good thing. Even though I was not inclined to serve in government, I didn’t think I wanted it and neither did I think it would happen. But when the invitation came, I had no objection and no other option than to accept it. Because, if I didn’t, I would not have been selling candidate Muhammadu Buhari since 2003 when he began to run for President. Then he won in 2015. If I had said no, that meant I had been selling a fake product. So, I had to come into government to support a man I had always believed in. Eight years after, I still believe in him and I will believe in him till the end of time.

Since May 29, 2023, you have engaged less.

Why? I was busy writing my memoir, and it was recently released to the public. It is titled, Working with Buhari.

Reflections of a Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, 2015-2023. I’ve been a private person since May 29 last year when we left government. And I’m satisfied with it. If I had my way, I would even delete all my social media accounts. I used all those platforms to serve my principal. I’ve not said I will do it, but I may. I know one of our Ministers, a former Governor. They opened fire on him on social media for about five days. When I saw him, I asked him if he saw all they were writing against him. He said, ‘for where, I have deleted all my social media accounts.’ So, I may end up copying that former Governor and Minister, if it continues to be a mad house.

What would you call highs and lows of being the Special Adviser, media to the President?

There is nothing you get involved with in life that would not have its upsides, downsides, high points, and low points. If I want to say it was all rosy in the eight years, then I’ll be telling you lies.There were downsides and upsides. But I would say the high points were more than the low points. For me, the low points would be when there were trenchant criticisms of the former president and I know that they are not correct. But the critics will never listen. For me, it constituted a low point. There were also periods of personal attacks.

They would say we can’t get to the President, but we can get to his aide, so they called me all sorts of names and threw all sorts of things at me. Once in a while, I threw some back, and once in a while, I absorbed them. Peter Tosh in his song said, if you live in a glass house, don’t throw stones, and if you can’t take blows, don’t throw blows. Some people throw stones and don’t want any stone thrown back at them. Once in a while, I threw stones at them, and they began to shout. Anybody that threw stones at me and I thought deserved stones to be thrown back at them, I did, which was not my usual style. Once in a while, I did. So, I had no regrets about that.

Talking of the high points, I served a man I truly admire, respect and love. The Bible says love covers multitude of sins. For me, the opportunity to serve Nigeria and President Buhari was chance of a lifetime.

I’m glad the opportunity came and I took it. Though I wasn’t inclined to it, I’m glad I took it and I have no regrets.

You held a sensitive position for years; in defence of your principal, you threw brickbats at those who attacked or questioned the integrity of your principal. How do we reconcile your position that

In good conscience, would you say your principal left Nigeria better than he met it?

Far better than he met it. When you want to assess a man, you rate him based on the things he has promised to do. Here was a man who came in 2015, and he said he would secure the country, revive the economy, and fight corruption. The three pillars are Security, Economy, and Anti-corruption (SEA). Not all of us have selective amnesia. When he came in 2015, recall that bombs went off in three to five places in a day in the country. Bombing and carnage everywhere.

He began to attack that insecurity gradually. By the time he left, in all sincerity would you say Nigeria was the same way in terms of insecurity? During religious public holidays, we knew the carnage that used to happen everywhere.

Femi Adesina

On the contrary, but the carnage and attacks increased?

Then you were not living in Nigeria. During his last Sallah and Christmas in office, did you hear of Boko Haram anywhere, unlike years before then?

Femi Adesina and President Muhammadu Buhari

it is not in your nature to go on the offensive or are you saying you have been misunderstood?

No. Anybody that occupied the kind of position I held would be deliberately misunderstood. There would be a deliberate effort to cast them in the wrong mould and turn them into an enemy of the public. I have experienced this, so I know what I’m saying. I remember when the President had his health challenge in 2017, he travelled in January and was away till August with intermittent returns to the country. There was nothing people didn’t say, to try to cast me as a liar, including you, some of my colleagues. I watched an Editor. I was Editor before him, but we were contemporaries in a way. I watched him on television that morning and he was trying so hard to make viewers believe I was lying to the country. I just pitied him. In fact, I saw him as a miserable fellow, and I just shook my head. So, there was a deliberate effort to cast me as a liar before the country. For those who asked me directly, I challenged them to tell me a single lie I have told to Nigerians, and they looked like fools when I confronted them because they wouldn’t be able to say this was the lie I told. I didn’t tell any lie to Nigerians, in the eight years I served the president. And more so, President Buhari does not expect you to lie for him. I tell you, lie for him, and one day he would tell the truth and you will be seen as a liar. President Buhari did not expect you to lie for him, because anything he did or said, he

was ready to stand by it. During the period of his ill health, the President who started recovering called me from London and said, ‘’I want to thank you for standing up to the mischief makers. I follow everything.”

I did a piece on our conversation and his gradual recovery. Do you know that someone went to put a comment there saying, ‘you liar, which president? Is it the one that is dead, and buried?’.’ That is the country we live in. But by and large, I would say I have had an opportunity of a lifetime and used it to the best of my ability. I may not have done it perfectly, but I did it to the best of my ability.

What kind of person is President Buhari?

Simple, easy-going, strict, a man of few words. Man of integrity, accountability and a genial fellow if you get to know him. But, some people see him in another light. They think he’s a man of iron and steel, unsmiling; he never jokes or sees the lighter and brighter side of life. But he’s just like the man next door.

Why didn’t he address the nation in the heat of so much pandemonium?

It’s a matter of personal style. For instance, during the COVID-19 lockdown, I recall the President made three different broadcasts- when the shutdown came, he made another one about two weeks later and a third one. I was watching television and heard people

But during his tenure, there were heightened terrorist attacks on trains, carnage in churches and kidnap for ransom hit the roof?

There are many dimensions of insecurity, the one he met was insurgency and which had taken control of the country. It started in the North-east, went to North-west, came into North Central, Abuja was involved. It was in Kogi and headed to the South-west. He fought that insurgency and drove the terrorists out of Adamawa, Yobe, Borno and they got circumscribed within Sambisa Forest, from where they made forays into cities at times. If you say that the insurgency was the same as 2015, then you had not been living in Nigeria. We went to Yobe and Adamawa some months before the administration wounded down, we heard the people talk of what they went through. At the Palace of the Emir of Damaturu, the story was told of how the Emir, his family and everybody in the palace had fled due to Boko Haram takeover. In fact, Governor Mai Mala Buni said, if you put one billion dollars on the table in that palace and asked anyone to go and take it, nobody would have shown up, because insurgents were already using the palace. We know how many Emirs and local government chairmen had fled their palaces and offices courtesy Boko Haram.

A minimum of 17 local governments were under the firm control of Boko Haram by the time the Buhari administration came. By the time President Buhari was leaving, it didn’t happen at that scale again. So, anybody that wants to say that the security situation wasn’t better before President Buhari left office, is a liar. The job wasn’t completely done, but it was far better than it was when he came in. Now, that insecurity became variegated at a time.

The main problem when President Buhari came was insurgency. Suddenly, banditry came into the picture.

That insecurity mutated into many forms- kidnapping, banditry, cult killings, oil thefts, secessionists’ bids, and all were being done by Nigerians. Would you then blame a single man for not combating all those things when we were the ones doing it to ourselves? How much could a country withstand under one administration? The one he inherited had been terribly dealt with. It wasn’t completely over, but it was thoroughly decimated.

Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 17, 2024

BOOK REVIEW

Ademola Adebise’s ‘The Transformational Leader: The Journey of a Tech Bro to a Bank CEO’ demola Adebise’s “The Transformational Leader: The Journey of a Tech Bro Turned Bank CEO”, is a memoir account of a man on whose shoulders destiny and providence placed the onerous responsibility of discovering, nurturing, and mentoring some gifted and talented professionals, as well as leveraging his skill of synergism with other team members to achieve breathtaking and exceptional work outcomes.

The book is an exploratory account of Adebise’s early school days through high school to his university days as a Computer Science undergraduate at the University of Lagos, and his professional life as an Information Technology (IT) expert and a professional banker of note. The powerful and enthralling story also delves into his early, family and work life balance, the role of mentors in his career, challenges and accomplishments, with a narrative style that arrests the reader’s mind, thereby providing a pleasant and delightful reading experience.

For easy reading and guidance of the reader, the 179page book is divided into nine chapters, each chapter carefully woven to the other, giving a penetrating view and deep insights into the personality, character traits, decision making process, and leadership qualities which define Ademola Adebise.

Chapter one is an alluring journey into how the streaks of success began for the author and the portrayal of the magnetic power and irresistible aura of success. His academic breakthrough into the ranks of the top three in his class in primary school won him the love and admiration of family members; respect and deference from peers and school mates; and honours and recognition from his teachers. From relative obscurity, the young Demola would become the cynosure of all eyes at that early part of his life.

Thus, while relishing and savouring all the attention, limelight, and fame that his first academic “conquest” evoked, he made a steely resolve to be a life long companion of success so as to be the “main event” rather than the “side show”.

Chapter two chronicles the commencement of a high impact professional life, including career change and adaptation from IT to Finance after certification as an associate of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria.

One notable and remarkable thing about Adebise’s job appointments is, perhaps, save for his first job at Compute Rite, he never applied for his subsequent appointments as they came by way of referrals and invitations. These out-of-the norm recruitment favours clearly indicate grace, special favours, and providence in the life of the author.

A man with a vaunting ambition to be a banker very early in life, destiny paved his way into the career of his choice by referral as he left Olivetti to join the then Chartered Bank as an IT personnel, moved over to the Finance Department after his certification as a chartered accountant. He would later head a department in the Finance division of the bank. When an opening was created by the exit of the Head of IT department, Adebise was recalled from finance to replace her. He made his strides through the development of projects and IT solutions for convenient customer experience.

By a fortuitous stroke of luck, another big career move happened, orchestrated by his erstwhile boss and former CEO of Chartered Bank, Odunayo Olagundoye, who had taken up another assignment to revive the hitherto moribund National Bank of Nigeria.

Olagundoye extended an invitation to the author to join him at National Bank of Nigeria as the Chief Financial Officer.

For a man who is always in search of excellence and new challenges, he took up the gauntlet, leaving a stable bank to help revive another in the doldrums.

He would later transition to the Chief Risk Officer of the bank, adding new portfolios such as treasury, corporate banking and business development.

When office politics reared its ugly face at the point of consolidation in 2004, forcing him to leave the bank he laboured so hard to revamp, he went into the world of consulting. Pitching his tent with Accenture, the

A

leading consulting firm where he acquired new skills and experience, changing his outlook and world view about organisational processes and procedures.

Again, another mentor of his, Segun Oloketuyi, who was heading a team of experts to stem Wema Bank’s hemorrhage and slide to the precipice of extinction, invited him to join him in 2009 as he trusted his competence, professionalism, work ethics, hardwork and dedication to duty. As a strategic risk taker, Adebise came aboard the Wema rescue ship as an Executive Director, helping to stabilize the bleeding bank along with other industrious team members.

A multi skilled professional, he found himself absolutely engrossed in work as he had to supervise various divisions as well as chair the bank’s disciplinary committee to ensure those involved in the grand larceny that undermined the health and stability of the bank were brought to book. His impressive accomplishments led the board of the bank to elevate him to the position of Deputy Managing Director in 2016, the first ever in the history of the bank and subsequently as the Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer in 2018.

His tenure witnessed the rapid transformation of Wema Bank to a vibrant colossus, reversing 13 long years of shareholders’ wait for dividend payment, and contributed to the launch of ALAT, Nigeria’s first fully digital bank in 2017 under the leadership of Oloketuyi.

With ALAT, you can perform your banking transaction on your mobile phone from account opening to various other banking transaction from the comfort of your home or office.

The bank, through this innovation adopting technology with reengineered processes soon became attractive to all customer segments, including the youth and the sophisticated customers who would have nothing to do with the bank before. The bank experienced phenomenal growth with balance sheet crossing N1 trillion with improved profitability Under his watch, the bank introduced the annual hackathon event called “hackaholics” amongst the youth to develop tech entrepreneurs whose innovations can solve society’s challenges in healthcare, education, agriculture and banking. They also serve as

a recruitment pool for the bank to add to their innovation team.

Adebise’s strong points are his leadership attributes of team building, networking, adaptability, empathy, flexibility, attracting distinguished professional to support him, transparency, respect for his colleagues, and working in harmony with teams. He had learnt some of these skills from his mentors while working with them.

Thus, during the sudden outbreak of Covid-19 in late 2019, his leadership style came to the fore as the business continuity models the bank had instituted, especially the automation of some office processes, proved pivotal. Meetings shifted online, HR policies were introduced on remote work, with ALAT ensuring customers were well served. He ensured employees were well remunerated and properly trained.

After 33 years in banking and having reached the zenith of his career, Adebise in the pursuit of happiness, expanding the horizon of conquests, and seeking fresh challenges which have always been integral to him, is therefore cooking something new as he prepares for the next phase of his life.

Adebise sees these achievements as a by-product of his happy home, his supportive wife who has remained his fortress at critical times, and the work of his mentors and hardworking colleagues. Of course, his father, Chief Adegoke Adebise is an exemplary family man who provided the focus he needed very early in life. He taught him the value of hardwork and diligence. His mother remains a strong pillar of support, while his nuclear family gives him the equanimity to focus on his tasks. He remains indebted to the man who showed him the road to the IT world, Late Chief Charles Adebiyi, his father’s friend, who enrolled him at Debis Computers for a computer appreciation course for secondary school students at a time when micro computers were newly introduced.

This book, the first from the author, is highly recommended to leaders and aspiring leaders who desire to create high impact legacies and transform their organisations to world class entities. It is also good for those who crave for knowledge about the ingredients for success.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 17, 2024 • T H I S D AY

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SATURDAY FEBRUARY 17, 2024 • T H I S D AY

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 17, 2024

AUTO WORLD

25

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

TIPS OF THE WEEK

Does Driving Fast Clean your Engine?

L-R: General Manager Automobile, Kewalram Chanrai, Mr. Sudeep Mittal; and Managing Director, Kewalram Chanrai Auto/Transport Vertical, Mr. Anil Sahgal, during the unveiling of the Fiat Strada, in Lagos... recently

Kewalram Introduces Fiat Strada, Compact Pickup into Nigerian Market Bennett Oghifo

K

ewalram Chanrai, one of the frontline auto solution providers in Nigeria, has formally introduced the Fiat Strada, a 1.4 litre pickup into the local market.

The Fiat Strada is introduced with the expected low price and fuel H΀FLHQW DGYDQWDJHV LQ WKH SLFNXS PDUNHW Managing Director, Kewalram Chanrai Auto/ Transport Vertical, Anil Sahgal, was assisted in unveiling the product by the General Manager Automobile of the company, Mr. Sudeep Mittal, DW WKH FRPSDQ\·V 9LFWRULD ,VODQG R΀FH LQ /DJRV on Tuesday.

According to the company, before the introduction of the vehicle in Nigeria, it was VXEMHFWHG WR H[WHQVLYH WHVWLQJ RQ GLͿHUHQW WHUUDLQV under extreme conditions covering over 29,000 kilometres in some of the states of the country.

Fiat Strada, according to Sudeep Mittal, is produced at the Stellantis plant in Brazil, where it emerged as the highest selling pickup last year.

He said the introduction of the vehicle in Nigeria is against the need for a high performance SLFNXS RͿHULQJ JUHDW FRPIRUW ZLWK ORZ RSHUDWLRQDO cost in view of the current high cost of fuel.

He said the Stranda is bringing higher standards in technology, design and safety to the compact pickup market.

“The Fiat Strada serves as a genuine driving force in the evolution of the automotive industry.

“Apart from performance and comfort, fuel economy has become very key in Nigeria now.

That’s why we went to look for a pickup that ÀOOV WKLV JDS )LDW 6WUDGD ZLOO JLYH YDOXH IRU money,” Mittal said.

He noted that with over 85,000 units sold in Brazil by the end of September 2023 and a remarkable achievement of 400,000 units since its second-generation launch in 2020, the Fiat Strada is set to conquer the Sub-Saharan African market, including Nigeria.

The compact pickup is the culmination of 25 years of expertise, he said, adding that its GHVLJQ ZDV LQÁXHQFHG E\ WKH DZDUG ZLQQLQJ Fiat Toro and stands out with its remarkable

audacity and modernity.

The company says the Fiat Strada’s cargo capacity is unparalleled, capable of accommodating between 650kg and 720kg, depending on the YHUVLRQ DQG RͿHULQJ XS WR OLWUHV LQ WKH single-cabin model, making it exceptionally suited to a variety of professional and personal needs. ,W JLYHV NP / IXHO H΀FLHQF\ LQ FLW\ GULYLQJ DQG NP / RQ WKH KLJKZD\ PDNLQJ LW RQH RI WKH PRVW IXHO H΀FLHQW SLFNXSV RQ WKH URDG today. ,WV LFRQLF /(' KHDGOLJKWV HPLWV SHU FHQW brighter light than its competitors, the company says.

The Strada is described as a technological marvel, equipped with advanced technologies such as stability control, hill start assist, and TC+.

The company says Fiat Strada ensures optimal traction, even on the most challenging terrains.

The Strada’s interior provides a cocoon of comfort, with abundant storage compartments, paired with cutting-edge air conditioning; it ensures that every trip is as enjoyable as the previous one.

Honda 0 Series: Embodiment of Mobility Dream

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n addition to returning to its starting point to create new value, the Honda 0 Series represents “zero,” a core value Honda has always valued, the automaker has said.

The Honda 0 Series was presented DW WKH &(6 LQ /DV 9HJDV 1HYDGD

USA. Under its global brand slogan “The Power of Dreams – How we move you.” Honda is always driven by “dreams,” and by creating new value through creative thinking from zero, Honda will provide experiences that will become a new starting point for its customers. This is how Honda has, and will move people and their hearts.

Honda is also determined to achieve “zero environmental impact” throughout the vehicle’s life F\FOH LQFOXGLQJ FRUSRUDWH DFWLYLWLHV DQG ´]HUR WUD΀F collision fatalities” involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles.

The Honda 0 Series also represents Honda commitment to reset the status quo, to create completely new value, and is represented by the concept models Saloon and Space-Hub. +RQGD 6HULHV ÁDJVKLS FRQFHSW PRGHO ´6DORRQµ The dedicated EV architecture extends the degree of freedom in design and elevates the M/M concept in the era of EVs. The low height, sporty styling WKDW VHWV WKH 6DORRQ DSDUW IURP RWKHU (9V DW ÀUVW glance realizes both a fascinating design and an interior space that is more spacious than people

Honda 0 series can imagine based on the exterior appearance.

The Space-Hub was developed under the theme RI ´DXJPHQWLQJ SHRSOH·V GDLO\ OLYHV µ RͿHULQJ D ÁH[LEOH VSDFH WKDW LPPHGLDWHO\ DFFRPPRGDWHV what the users want to do, and becomes a hub that connects people to people and people to society,

generating mutual resonance with each other. ,Q +RQGD ZLOO EHJLQ LQWURGXFLQJ WKH ÀUVW model of the Honda 0 Series, alongside the new “H mark” globally, starting from North America, then to Japan, Asia, Europe, Africa and the Middle East and South America.

Driving fast does not necessarily clean your engine. While it’s true that driving at higher speeds can KHOS EXUQ RͿ FDUERQ GHSRVLWV LQ the engine, it’s not a substitute for regular maintenance such as RLO FKDQJHV ÀOWHU UHSODFHPHQWV and using high-quality fuel. In fact, excessive speeding can also lead to increased wear and tear on your engine, so it’s important to strike a balance and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance.

Another Opinion Kinda. The best way to keep an engine clean is to 1. Use a high quality detergent gasoline most of the time, and 2. When it’s up to operating temperature, run it at higher RPM once in a while.

It isnt just the engine you have to consider, but the cat as well. If it’s an older engine, i.e. pre-EFI, it’s generally more of an issue.

With modern engines, a good bust of acceleration on the freeway on-ramp once in a while is all you really need to keep your engine happy. Any big V8 post 2007 or so may need those spirited on-ramp sessions a little more, since they usually have double overdrive and are running such a low rpm on the freeway. Smaller engines are generally run at a higher rpm, so you don’t need to do anything special.

Just daily driving with good gas and they stay nice and clean.

Consider how many Hondas and Toyotas reach 200000 miles running perfectly. Just stick with the good gas, those injectors really need the detergents. Once your injectors get fouled, you’re not getting optimal air/fuel ratios and it’s going to mess up your plugs and then your cat.

With regard to the fuel, the less the car is driven, the more imporWDQW LW LV WR EX\ WKH JRRG VWXͿ ,I you’re on a long road trip where you’re using multiple tanks of gas at 75 mph, you can probably buy WKH FKHDS VWXͿ DQG JHW E\ 3HUVRQally, I generally don’t do that. My 25 year old SUV has 155000 miles, and maybe that last 10 years it doesn’t get driven much, but it worships at the pump of Chevron and it runs perfectly. (I try to drive it once a week, but I’m gone a lot).

The smog guy thought I was up to VRPH VKHQDQLJDQV ZKHQ KH VQLͿHG it last year. It’s emission levels are way at the bottom of the range, basically the same as when it was new. He was looking a it really close. It’s obvious that the engine has never been touched. I told him I just take care of it and don’t burn shitty gas. He agreed that good gas PDNHV D ELJ GLͿHUHQFH (Source: Quora)

26

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER FEBRUARY 17, 2024

EXPRESSION

MEDIAGAFFES

Wabara: ‘Alex Otti’s Apologist’?

EBERE WABARA

“F

UELqueuesreturnin(to)Lagos.”

“EFCCarraignsKwarabizman over (on) N170m contract scam” Please further note that ‘bizman’ is a substandard entry.

“Ogun: Adebutu, others dockedovermoneylaundering” No editor/reporter has any journalistic licence to misuse words or phrases, especially those that are fixed or stock etymologies. You put a suspect in the dock. Verbal usage of ‘dock’ does not apply here. It is mostly a maritime application.

The next three blunders are from a congratulatory advertorialsignedbyRt.Hon.FrancisOgbonnaNwifuru, Governor, Ebonyi State: “…on the auspicious occasion of your 83rd birthday anniversary celebration.” Delete ‘anniversary’ for Ochudo’s sake! “…in the context of work ethics (ethic)….”

“Happy birthday to a truly inspirational leader per (par) excellence in politics who has certainly earned a place in the history of our dear.” Dear what?

“The endemic country in the country is fast weakening our nascent democracy.” Apart from the gibberish of ‘country in the country’, our democracy is no longer ‘nascent’!

The Special Adviser to ex-Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State on Public Communications, Onyebuchi Ememanka, made a public nuisance of himself in his scurrilous and horrendous feedback to one of my candid articles published not too long ago: “…Ukwa Ngwa resurrects which appeared… at (on) Page 17 made a negatively interesting read (reading).” ‘Read’, in this context, is strictly informal which means it cannot be used in formal/standard writing. The same thing applies to ‘invite’ (invitation) which is becoming faddish in Nigeria!

“It was at (in) the last paragraph that I understood what the entire article was all about, namely, yet another attempt by an apologist of Mazi Alex Otti, to further seek to needlessly politicize and denigrate the history of our people.”

Finally from Ememanka: “It rather follows age long

BY

(age-long) traditions of seniority at (on) the bench.”

For those who may not know, the bracketed words are the correct entries.

THEGuardianfrontandinsidepagesofFebruary12 follows the footsteps of Ememanka by prefacing this week’s edition with two howlers nurtured by juvenile sloppiness: “It should be recalled that stakeholders opposed AMCON’s deadline on (for) bank’s acquisition.”

“Govt testruns (sic) Americanbuildingsystem inKuje scheme” ‘Test run’ is a noun—not a phrasal verb! Just use ‘tests’, which is brief and concise. These Nigerian etymological creations vitiate contemporary English.

Usage note: Customs (plural)—The Customs and Excise(British:nowHerMajesty’sRevenueandCustoms since 2005 when the department was merged with Inland Revenue). Also: US Customs Service just like Nigeria Customs Service which the current leadership has so revolutionized with a catalytic touch that you would think there had been no CG before the present one—the NCS now posts, unprecedentedly, N100bn revenue yearly! Britons apply plural verb (The Customs have seized….) while Americans use singular verb.

The choice is yours! For me, to the extent that it is a government AGENCY, I will support Americans on this for once! What do you constructively think?

“It is high time (also it is about time) all the contentious issues in SWF are (were) resolved now (sic) in the interest of the economy and the country.”

“Attempt by the APC to elect officials has led to cracks in its rank (ranks)” “There are intractable crisis (crises) between….”

“The demeanour of majority (a majority) of the contenders….”

“The compendium is the first single national publication that will feature all the custodian (the entire custodians) of Nigeria’s cultures….” (Full-page advertorial by Daily Trust) LetusmovefromDailyTrusttoTHISDAYofFebruary 12 which circulated all manner of blunders: “Stop by the nearest Access Bank branch for our Cross Border Transfer (cross-border transfer) service.” (Full-page advertisement)

The next two faults are still from THISDAY of the above edition: “…the last thing the public needs (need) now is to rub salt in (into) their wounds.”

“Population, urbanisation (urbanization, preferably) driver (drivers) of investment into (in) Africa” “This is a cost effective (cost-effective) way of banking.”

“A hearty cheers” (Full-page congratulatory advertorial by the Chrome Group) Why not ‘Hearty cheers? “…on the occasion of his Birthday Anniversary (sic).” (Full-page advertorial by Mainland Oil & Gas Co. Ltd) ‘Birthday’ and ‘anniversary’ cannot co-exist because the former implies the yearly anniversary (celebration/marking/commemoration) of an epochal event (birth/discovery/wedding/memorial et al) in the life of an individual or an organisation (organization, preferably). This faux pas keeps recurring daily! Is it that we do not read or are we just raucously careless or incorrigible? We have ‘wedding anniversary’.

“Although sports betting have (has) been around for a long time….”

Finally from the Back Page of THISDAY under focus where a guest columnist offered readers just an executive takeaway: “Now that they have attained those standards, I hope they will not let it (them) drop again.”

The PUNCH of February 12 joins the languagepoverty club with the following inaccuracies: “I ran to the two of them and they would borrow (lend) the state money.”

“Glo Borrow (Lend) Me Credit” (Full-page advertisement by glo Unlimited) What is this schoolboy mix-up of ‘borrow’ and ‘lend’?

“Risk averse (Risk-averse) Nigerian banks lag behind peers—Report” For the first time, let us welcomeTHISDAY Style to this stylish column. Its two editions lacked grammatical etiquette on three occasions: “…my experiences here has (have) been a big part of my music. From the onset (outset), my music has (had) always been about me being a Nigerian.”

Revisiting The Nigerian Railway - 2

A

fter about a three-minute wait at Papalanto, we arrived Wole Soyinka Station (Abeokuta) at 9.35am (a five-minute wait); Ladoke Akintola (Omi-Adio) at 10.20am (waited for only three minutes). Since Ibadan has two “stoppable” stations, it was quite gratifying to hear the announcer mention areas that are close to Omi-Adio so as to help people consider the best place to disembark, before we reach the “terminus”. Eventually, we arrived Obafemi Awolowo Station (Moniya) at 10.40am… Praise God. While the sense of safety and timekeeping protocols are commendable, it is a little disconcerting that a train trip between Lagos and Ibadan would take close to three hours to navigate; especially considering the absence of the usual “go-slow” on road traffic, and the occasional snafu that can snarl up road transportation.

Well, the return journey was almost as uneventful and peaceful. From our base in Ibadan, we had planned that we would make allowance for traffic congestion, and the distance to the nearest station (Moniya). So we took off fairly early - around 5.35am. Our driver, an energetic middle-aged man coyly named ‘Alfa Mutairu Flour’ was an expert night-vision motorist who was able to get us to the station by 6.35am!

The day was still fairly dark, as dawn was quite slow in waking up.

We waited in the unmarked taxi for the NRC staff to open shop. Fortunately, the “free days” ended a day earlier, so we did not envisage any hassles. And since Alfa was some kind of fixture at the station, he was a familiar face to both the staff and other transporters and self-employed operatives. Ours was one of only three vehicles around, and he advised us to wait back in the car for

the ticketing office and “checkers” to start work. We could see passengers who needed to process their tickets, on site, building up a queue around the ticketing office. The station’s main doors remained shut.

About 6.55am, the officials opened the doors, and motioned holders of pre-registered online tickets to form a short queue. We joined the queue at 7.05, and found the officials battling with two hand-held devices (similar to that used by PoS traders).

For some unknown reasons, the QR-code checking devices refused to work for a few minutes. Good grief!

Shortly, we got underway with checking. They asked for ID cards while confirming the authenticity of tickets. So we asked, what is the sense in demanding physical evaluation of a National Identification Number (NIN) at the station entrance when every intending passenger is compulsorily requested to input your NIN data in order to generate your individual profile, alongside any other passenger(s) you desire to make bookings for? If the system does not confirm the validity of your NIN, you cannot proceed to make payment.

Why the extra stress?

The young man apologised about the matter thus: “It’s all this problems that is causing it…’’ He didn’t elaborate, and we didn’t bother to probe further. After entering, a young man approached us (some call them ‘hustlers’)...he offered to chaperone us, and our affable Alfa nodded his approval, to indicate he was good to go with. We thanked Alfa Flour profusely, as he showered prayers on us in his own way. Very nice gentleman.

We decided to use the offered help with our luggage, as we remembered what happened in Lagos a few days earlier, when we had to endure the

arduous spectacle of lifting our big suitcase across the long multiple stairs as the Lagos escalators were not working…we didn’t want to trust the Ibadan escalators! Fortunately for us, the advantage of that decision was instant in showing up. The young man ushered us to the VIP section meant for holders of First Class tickets. That was strange, so we asked: “Are you sure we’re supposed to be here?” Nothing disparages your confidence than to be shushed away from a place of honour that you have implanted yourself uninvited.

His gestures were read to be: “So, these Lagos people don’t know ‘what’s going on’?” We took our lush seats.

The VIP Lounge is a fairly large room adjacent to the main waiting hall. It is a plush arrangement with large settees - exactly 15 - and bounded by 14 coffee tables - in cute postmodern designs. There are two convenience areas (male and female) on either side of the air-conditioned room, with two toilet rooms each. Surprisingly, the one we entered had a toilet roll in its closet, and water ran smoothly in the two sinkholes! All quite neat and odourless. Whaoh!

Throughout our brief stay, about 30 minutes, we were the only occupants of the swanky environment with a good view of the rail lines. One is at a loss why the NRC staffers do not consider it important to inform First Class ticket holders that they may choose to hang out in the VIP Lounge! A great facility left unused and fallow, because of

ewabara@yahoo.com, 08055001948

“Put your phone on silent (silence)” From THE NATION ON SUNDAY of February 11 comes the next boyish infraction: “Nigeria: Giant with a feet of clay” You mean nobody in the production team could detect this mistake? Get it right: ‘Nigeria: Giant with clay feet—not ‘a feet of clay’! “…Happy Birthday my sweetheart & congrats for (on/upon) being a Digital grandma.”

“Travel expert…said Nigeria needs (needed) a national or flag carrier with….”

The Guardian of January 24 nurtured some misunderstandings right from its front page: “The meeting, which started at about 12.10 p. m. at (in) the Council Chambers, was attended by….” No cloudiness about timing: exactitude is the word or clear guess game (at 12.10 p. m. or about 12.10 p. m.—if unsure).

In formal writing, ‘at’ and ‘about’ cannot co-function when timing.

“Taraba CAN blames acting gov over (for) killings, aide disagrees” “Since August, I have been remitting money into (to) my husband’s account….”

“Chioma, you are not 50, you are 18 with 32 years (years’) experience” The Guardian of February 12 was conscienceless: “With this resolution, the committee said local councils will (would) no longer be a third tier….”

Still on The Guardian which fumbled scandalously with five kindergartener mistakes: “What is absolutely incorrect is the celebration of same (the same) figures as some achievement in the face of Nigerians’ gnawing poverty.” “…which shows that majority (a/the majority) of Nigerians still live below the poverty line….” “…offeringacompetitiveedgeoverothereconomies in (on) the continent….” “…the turnover shows a reap-off (rip-off) of consumers and low quality service in return.”

“The exercise is how to maximize those potentials (potential or potentialities).”

COUNTERPOINT

FEMI

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

official neglect or nonchalance, would soon fall into ruins. Or do they have other shades of passengers in mind?

Well, thank God for our emergency help mate.

At 7.36am, our train moved from the farthest tracks to us, to “re-park” closer to the exit point, so we would not have to loft our luggage up and down the mazy stairs. Thank God for little mercies. At exactly 7.47am (10 minutes to its advertised departure time of 7.57), we went onboard Coach C01. Obviously, this train (named IL2) appeared better equipped than the last one we came to Ibadan in. It has three TV screens attached to the roof of the coach, in equal distance apart. An American action movie was playing, with what looked like Mandarin as its main subtitles (we could barely see a smaller print in English). It begs the question: why do you not show Nigerian movies in a Nigerian train ferrying Nigerians across Nigerian cities - even if the train is ‘officially’ called “Fu Xing” One major plus for us, though, is that the ticket numbering in the coach tallied with what was on the online platform - unlike the other day. As usual, we departed Moniya at exactly 8.00am…in an aggressively cold coach, heading to Lagos. Everything went smoothly - perhaps influenced by the day being a Monday - and we landed in the Agege Station at 10.07am. With the Ebute Metta terminal reachable within 20 minutes, our return train was not only better equipped, it was also a little faster - a massive 10 minutes, at the very least.

3

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 24, 2011

GLOBAL SOCCER A

WEEKLY PULL-OUT

17.2.2024

WILLIAM TROOSTEKONG

Super Eagles Marshal

NEWS

TITLE TEST PAGE. 27

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 17, 2024

GLOBAL SOCCER

William Troost-Ekong Super Eagles Marshal Not since when JosephYobo at the height of his football career has the Super Eagles had a true leader in their ranks. Until the just concluded 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire, the Nigeria senior football team was like the proverbial sheep without shepherd. However, when Nigeria kick-started the 2023 AFCON, WilliamTroost-Ekong took the mantle of leadership of three-time African champions and not only led the team to a silver medal but also emerged as the tournament’s MostValuable Player

L-R: Winner of Best Goalkeeper award, Ronwen Williams of S outh Africa; AFCON 2023 Player of the Tournament, William Troost-Ekong of Nigeria and Golden Boat winner, Emilio Nsue Lopez of Equitorial Guinea

B

efore the kickoff of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Nigeria was not on the list of bookmaker’s favourites after shunning some disappointing results, most notably in the World Cup qualifiers against minors-Lesotho and Zimbabwe, where they forced their opponents to a draw on both occasions.

Against all odds however, the team went on to play in the final of the biennial competition.

After drawing 1-1 with Equatorial Guinea, the Super Eagles did not concede any goal until the semifinals against South Africa and of cause, the two goals against the host – Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire, in the final.

One of Nigeria’s standout player was on field captain, Troost-Ekong, indeed proved to be a true leader, little wonder he was not only name in the team of the competition, but emerged as the best player of the just concluded Africa Cup of Nations.

The Super Eagles captain scored a powerful header in the final as Nigeria lost 2-1 to Cote d’Ivoire. Troost-Ekong is also the highest-scoring defender in the competition, scoring three goals as Nigeria made the AFCON final for the first time since 2013.

He was the backbone of a stingy Nigerian defence that conceded just one goal from open play en route to the final.

Troost-Ekong is optimistic the Super Eagles will come back stronger after failing to win a fourth Africa Cup of Nations

title in Cote d’Ivoire.

The 30-year-old, who expressed his disappointment on the team’s defeat to the Elephants, also thanked the fans for their support. ““Naija thank you! I love you. No words can justify the feeling of losing a final. I’m proud of our team, our nation, our spirit; heads up, keep trying, we will soar again. Congratulations CIV,” the defender wrote on his official X handle.

The centre-back finished the competition as Nigeria’s joint-top scorer with three goals.

Troost-Ekong opened scoring for the Super Eagles against Cote d’Ivoire in the final with their first attempt on goal and in doing so, the 30-year-old took his overall tally at the Africa Cup of Nations to five goals and became the highest scoring defender in the history of the competition.

Troost-Ekong attributed the team’s AFCON success to the fact that no player sees himself as a superstar in the team’scamp.

He said the Super Eagles challenged for the 2023 AFCON trophy because there is a strong sense of unity in the squad.

He also said the team is successful because the young talented players in the team have something to prove.

Ekong, who plays for PAOK, is the oldest player in Jose Peseiro’s team at the ongoing tournament.

Nine players of the Super Eagles in the competition play for top five European League clubs.

“I think all of us now playing in respectable teams in respect of the leagues, one or two in better teams than others, but everyone is young and wanted to prove something and that was what probably made us a good team”, he said.

“We are all in this together and as soon as we arrived here in the camp, I don’t think anyone thinks about what club they play for. It’s a real brotherhood going on. That’s making us play well.

“We don’t have any superstars in our team, I think before there’s been generations with Nigeria that they’ve had a lot of players playing in big teams.

“However much that’s helped the team it might have also been a bit difficult because you have different agendas maybe and you have to take into account a lot of different players and different mentalities.”

The 30-year-old was solid and only missed one game at the tournament, but it could not have been achieved after he was snubbed for almost a year by coach Jose Peseiro.

Before he was called up for the AFCON, his last game for Nigeria was the pre-World Cup friendly against Portugal in November 2022, which the Super Eagles lost 4-0. After that, he was an unused substitute twice, for the AFCON qualifying games against Sierra Leone in June and São Tomé and Principe in September, and was then omitted from the squad in October and November friendlies.

“I wasn’t sure if I was going to play this

AFCON or not and to be honest, I wasn’t sure if I was going to continue with the national team either because I was weighing all my options,” Troost-Ekong told ESPN. “I felt that maybe the only thing that was going to stop me this time was that there was some disagreement with the coach before the tournament so I wasn’t sure if I was going to be part of the squad or not.

Having admitted to being in disagreement with Peseiro before the AFCON call-up, he also said he never gave up on the team after joining POAK in Greece last summer.

“I stayed in communication with the team, I was wishing them well. I also reminded the coach that I am available and I think everyone was impressed with how I was playing in the league and also the European Conference League.”

Troost-Ekong has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia in the summer transfer window after putting on impressive performances in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

According to Fabrizio Romano, there is a growing interest from the Saudi Pro League to land Troost-Ekong in the summer.

His current deal at PAOK runs until June of 2026 and the Greek Super League leaders could listen to offers for the defender.

Troost-Ekong has represented multiple European sides throughout his career including Watford, Salernitana, Udinese, and Bursaspor.

29

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 17, 2024

GLOBAL SOCCER

Man City Record Title Hunt Gets Chelsea Test

Manchester City’s ambition to become the first club to win four Premier League titles in a row will face another test today as Pep Guardiola’s men welcome Chelsea to the Emirate Stadium. Both sides could not be separated when they met in the reverse fixture in an eight-goal thriller.

Head -to -Head 08/12/18 10/02/19 23/11/10 25/07/20 03/01/21 08 /01 21 25/09/21 15/01/22 05/01/23 20/05/23 12/11/23

Chelsea 2-0 Man City Man City 6-0 Chelsea Man City 2-1 Chelsea Chelsea 2-1 Man City Chelsea 1-3 Man City Man City 1-2 Chelsea Chelsea 0-1Man City Man City 1-0 Chelsea Chelsea 0-1 Man City Man City 1-0 Chelsea Chelsea 4-4 Man City

PREMIER LEAGUE TODAY

Brentford v Liverpool 12:30 Burnley v Arsenal 15:00 Fulham v Aston Villa 15:00 Newcastle v Bournemouth 15:00 Nott’m Forest v West Ham 15:00 Tottenham v Wolves 15:00 Man City v Chelsea 17:30 SUNDAY

Sheffield Utd v Brighton 14:00 Luton Town v Man Utd 16:30

La Liga TODAY

Atlético v Las Palmas 13:00 Osasuna v Cádiz 15:15 Celta Vigo v Barcelona 17:30 Valencia v Sevilla 20:00 SUNDAY

Vallecano v Madrid 13:00 Granada v Almería 15:15 Mallorca v Sociedad 17:30 Real Betis v Alavés 20:00 Chelsea’s duo of Thiago Silva and Marc Cucurella sandwished Man City’s Erling Haarland when both sides met at Stamford Bridge

Hot Shot

T

PLAYERS

hree months on from their riveting 4-4 draw at Stamford Bridge, Manchester City and Chelsea renew acquaintances at the Etihad Stadium for a Premier League showdown this evening.

While the Citizens endeavour to chase down Liverpool at the summit, their West London counterparts are seeking to boost their hopes of securing a top-seven finish.

Fixtures continue to come thick and fast for Man City as they continue their pursuit of another historic treble, but Pep Guardiola’s men have had few problems establishing another one of their trademark winning runs during a

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

crucial period in the second half of the campaign.

Indeed, the Citizens have won each of their last 11 matches across all tournaments, a run which began with success at the Club World Cup in mid-December and was most recently extended courtesy of a 3-1 away victory over Copenhagen in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie on Tuesday.

Goals from Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva and Phil Foden ensured that Man City would take a two-goal advantage into their second leg on home soil in three weeks’ time; their focus now shift back to the Premier League title race as they attempt to close the two-point gap that separates them in second with leaders Liverpool, who could momentarily move five points clear if they beat Brentford in today’s lunchtime kickoff.

Man City are gearing up for three home fixtures in their next four and will welcome a return to the Etihad where they have not lost any of their last 22 Premier League games. They have also won six of their last eight top-flight home meetings with today’s opponents Chelsea, keeping a clean sheet in five of those victories in the process.

Clean sheets have been hard to come by for the Citizens this season, though, as Guardiola’s side have conceded in 11 of their last 13 Premier League games, and they can ill-afford to show any defensive frailties this weekend against a Chelsea side who fired four goals past them in the reverse fixture and have since netted eight times in their last three games this month.

Chelsea’s frustratingly inconsistent form has been the catalyst behind their mid-table mediocrity so far this season,

and after suffering two four-goal defeats to Liverpool and Wolverhampton Wanderers, the pressure has since somewhat eased on head coach Mauricio Pochettino following two important 3-1 away wins over Aston Villa and Crystal Palace.

Five days after beating Villa in an FA Cup fourth-round replay with arguably their best performance of the season to date, the Blues were starring down the barrel of defeat against Palace on Monday as they trailed at half time after failing to register a single shot on target despite boasting 80 per cent possession at Selhurst Park.

However, Chelsea came out a different side after the interval and their efforts were rewarded as ex-Eagles man Conor Gallagher bookended the second half with a brace, before Enzo Fernandez sealed the victory deep into stoppage time.

Having posted 10 wins, four draws and 10 defeats from 24 Premier League games, few can be surprised to see Chelsea languishing in 10th place, but securing European football for next season remains a possibility for the Blues as they are only two points behind Newcastle United in seventh, and seven points adrift of Manchester United in sixth – two teams Chelsea are still to play on home soil.

Pochettino and co must find consistency quickly if they wish to climb the table, but success today could prove challenging as they have failed to win any of their last seven meetings with Man City since securing a famous 1-0 triumph in the 2021 Champions League final; the Blues have also alarmingly conceded in 18 of their last 19 Premier League clashes with the Citizens.

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

CLUB

GOALS

Man City 16 Liverpool 14 Bournemouth 13 Tottenham 12 West Ham 11 Aston Villa 11 Newcastle 10 Wolves 10 Arsenal 10 Tottenham 10 Chelsea 10

Premier League Table TEAM

P

GD

PTS

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

24 23 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 23 23 24 24 23 24 24 24

32 31 31 15 18 0 12 -6 3 1 -2 -6 -13 -5 -16 -14 -12 -6 -25 -38

54 52 52 47 46 41 36 36 35 34 32 29 27 25 24 21 20 19 13 13

30

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾FEBRUARY 17, 2024

GLOBAL SOCCER

Iheanacho celebrating scoring Nigeria’s last penalty against South Africa at the just concluded AFCON

Brentford Confirm Onyeka’s Available for Liverpool Brentford manager Thomas Frank has confirmed that Super Eagles 2023 Africa Cup of Nations star, Frank Onyeka, is fit and available for his side’s Premier League clash with table toppers Liverpool at the Gtech Community Stadium.

Onyeka played a pivotal role in the Super Eagles’ secondplace finish in the tournament, starting all games as one of the two central midfielders in the three-time African champion’s 3-4-3 formation.

The 26-year-old finished the tournament as the player

with the most tackles and interceptions while he also ranked third for most fouls committed.

Brentford will be glad to have the Super Eagles midfield general back unscathed and his return couldn’t have come at a better time as they prepare to face one of the most in-form teams in the Premier League. Delivering an update on the fitness of his players, Thomas Frank revealed that Onyeka and Yoane Wissa, who is also returning from his participation with DR Congo at AFCON, are available for selection for tomorrow’s tie with the Reds.

“They’ve been important and

good for us, so it’s good to have them in training,” he told the club’s official website.

“They’ve come back with energy having had, in many, many ways, fantastic experiences.”

“Unfortunately, they finished second and fourth rather than first and third, but we are very proud of them and what they achieved.”

Onyeka has struggled to nail down a place in Brentford’s starting lineup this season, starting 6 of the sixteen appearances he has made in the Premier League this season.

Leicester Get Iheanacho’s Boost Ahead of Middlebrough Clash Kelechi Iheanacho is back in England following the conclusion of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

Iheanacho was a bit-part player for the Super Eagles at the tournament in Ivory Coast and the highlight of his performance was scoring the decisive penalty in the shootout win against South Africa.

The 2013 Fifa U17 World Cup Golden Ball winner made his first appearance of the competition off the bench in the semifinals and played the last eleven minutes against the Elephants.

The versatile striker had fitness issues before the start of the tournament and missed the whole of the training camp in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

The Foxes coped well without Iheanacho,

winning six of their last eight matches in the second tier and are through to the fifth round of the Emirates FA Cup following wins against Millwall and Birmingham City.

When asked about the availability of Iheanacho, Leicester City manager Enzo Maresca was quoted as saying by Leicester City’s official website: “He’s back”.

Iheanacho joined his Leicester City teammates in yesterday’s final training session, which puts him in contention to be named in the gameday squad to face Middlesbrough.

The Super Eagles star has not featured for the Championship table toppers since Boxing Day.

7th Edition of NMA Games Kicks off Monday, Feb. 19 The Nigeria Medical Association, NMA is set to host the highly anticipated 7th edition of the NMA Games, which will take place in Lagos from Monday, February 19 to Saturday, February 24, 2024, at multiple venues including the University of Lagos Sports Complex and the Ikeja Golf Course.

Expectation is high for this year’s games, with over 1000 doctors from seven regional zones expected to participate in a variety of sporting events ranging from football to chess. This gathering does not only celebrate athleticism but also fosters camaraderie and wellness among Nigeria’s esteemed physicians and medical professionals.

Reflecting on the history of

the NMA Games, Dr. Benjamin Olowojebutu, Chairman NMA Lagos Zone and Head LOC for NMA National Games Eko 2024 recalled the resilience showcased during the 6th edition in Abeokuta amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Notably, the South-South zone has emerged victorious in the last two editions, highlighting the spirit of competitiveness and excellence within the medical community.

“Against the backdrop of current national circumstances, we recognise and commend the selfless dedication of medical professionals across the country. Now more than ever, it is crucial to acknowledge their invaluable contributions to society”. He added.

trip to watch the AFCON. “When I received a call from an official of BetCorrect that I had won an all-expense trip to watch the 2023 AFCON in Cote d’Ivoire, I initially felt it was a scam.”

Oyeniran however said there was no dull moment throughout his stay in Abidjan as he had lots of fun and even visited memorable places aside the stadium where the final was played.

For Rukevwe however, even when he was inside the aircraft to Abidjan, he still thought it was a dream and had to make

Fulham Boss Says Iwobi in Good Mental State after Online Abuse Fulham manager Marco Silva has confirmed that Alex Iwobi is in good mental condition following the backlash he received after participating in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations for Nigeria.

The 27-year-old missed the opportunity to win his first international trophy as the Super Eagles lost to Ivory Coast in the final of the tournament.

In the aftermath of the defeat to the Elephants, Iwobi suffered a lot of online abuse from Super Eagles fans who were angry at the result, and the winger reacted by deleting all his Instagram posts.

Iwobi has been scapegoated

by Nigerians but has had the backing of his teammates and it has also been reported that he won’t quit the national team despite the backlash.

He hasn’t featured for the Cottagers since the start of 2024 due to his international commitment and his return will be a huge boost for the London-based club.

Asked about the mental state of Alex Iwobi and if he’s had a chat with Iwobi in the lead-up to the Premier League meeting with Aston Villa, Silva told reporters at yesterday’s pre-match press conference: “Mentally, he’s very

good. Alex is a happy boy when he’s on the pitch doing what he loves, he’s always doing it with a smile on his face. I know part, I don’t know everything what people said about it. “I don’t see reasons because if you lose a game you lose a game together, if you win a game you win together of course.

They did brilliantly until the final.

“They lost the final and the people reacted they think that is the best. In my opinion it was completely unfair because of the way they criticized him on social media. It’s more strange when there is no reason to do it.

Hyde Energy Sustains Sponsorship of Lagos Polo Tournament Hyde Energy, an oil and gas company based in Lagos, has announced its ongoing sponsorship of the prestigious Lagos Polo Tournament for the second consecutive year.

During the final week of the highly anticipated Silver Cup competition, Hyde Energy reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Lagos Polo Club and polo.

According to a statement yesterday, throughout the tournament, Hyde Energy sponsored the Most Valuable Player award, recognising the outstanding talent and dedication exhibited by athletes in the polo community.

The final showdown of the ‘Low Cup’ played on

Sunday, February 11, 2024, was a spectacle to behold, with Dimeji Aluko emerging as the Most Valuable Player in an exhilarating match that kept spectators on the edge of their seats.

The company’s steadfast support has contributed to the success and excitement of each match, keeping spectators engaged with nail-biting moments and fierce competition.

“We are thrilled to continue our sponsorship of the Lagos Polo Tournament for the second year in a row,” Chief Executive of Hyde Energy, Mr. Oladimeji Edwards said.

“Polo is a sport that embodies excellence, passion, and tradition, and we are proud

to support the talented athletes who showcase these values on the field. Our partnership with the Lagos Polo Club underscores our commitment to fostering community engagement and promoting the growth of sports in Nigeria,” he added.

Hyde Energy is renowned for its commitment to providing reliable energy solutions, including gas, lubricants (engine oil), petrol, diesel, and more.

As a trusted energy provider, with a focus on quality, reliability, and innovation, Hyde Energy remains dedicated to delivering high-quality products and services to meet the diverse needs of its customers across Nigeria.

LPSS Comes Alive for Dolphin Swimming League Olowojebutu

The NMA Games serve as a platform to promote physical and mental well-being among medical professionals. Eko 2024 exemplifies how sports can contribute to a healthier lifestyle and sharper minds, especially in the face of demanding professional responsibilities.

BetCorrect Promo Winners Express AFCON 2023 Experience Winners of the BetCorrect promo Oyedayo Oyeniran and Innocent Rukevwe have expressed their experience enjoying an allexpense paid trip to the recently concluded Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire, saying it was one trip they cannot forget in a hurry.

Speaking at a press conference at Ebony Life Place, Victoria Island, one of the two winners, Oyeniran said he felt it was a scam when he got a call from an official of BetCorrect that he had won an all-expense paid

CEO of Hyde Energy - Mr. Oladimeji Edwards (third left) presenting the winning trophy to Low Cup winner, Lagos A+/A1 Polo Team during the Lagos Polo Tournament held Lagos...recently

several video calls with friends and family members when he got to his hotel to be assured he was dreaming.

The Managing Director, BetCorrect, Adrian Amadei, said the AFCON 2023 experience will not be a one-off thing as plans were in horizon to exploit the English Premier League experience.

“We know how popular the Premier League is in Nigeria and we will be exploring that avenue for our customers to have a live experience of the Premiership,” Amadei said.

The highly anticipated third leg of the season five of Dolphin Swimming League will today come alive at the Lagos Preparatory & Secondary School (LPSS) in Ikoyi, Lagos.

Regarded as Nigeria’s foremost schools swimming tournament, the league is an initiative to grow the sport of swimming from the grassroots to the international level. Organised

by Dynaspro Promotions in collaboration with Advanta

Interactive with the sole aim of unearthing talents from schools.

The tournament which has continued to grow in each season has provided some of the students and their schools to hone their skills as well as compete with their counterparts at the one-day tournament.

Defending champions in the elementary and secondary categories – St Saviour’s School and Grange School will battle

for medals against Atlantic Hall, Greensprings School, Meadow Hall, Lagoon Whitesands, Children International School (CIS), Italian Priory, host – LPSS as well as club like Boken Aquatics.

The tournament has been endorsed by the Nigeria Aquatics Federation as well as Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Nigeria School Sport Federation (NSSF) and Lagos State Swimming Association.

Man City Tackles Chelsea as Liverpool, Brentford Live on GOtv Manchester City will hope to pile the pressure on Liverpool by securing a twelfth successive victory when they host Chelsea today. This and other matches will be broadcast live on GOtv. Tune in SuperSport Premier League (ch 66) at 6:30pm today

to watch the game.

Also today, Liverpool will continue their bid to stay at the top of the table when they pay a visit to Brentford. Jurgen Klopp’s men will return to the Gtech Community Stadium for the first time since their 3-1 defeat in 2023 and they are keen to

avoid another slip up. It will be on SuperSport Premier League (ch 66) at 1:30pm today.

Tomorrow, Manchester United will play their first Premier League match at Kenilworth Road against Luton Town on SuperSport Premier League (ch 66) at 5:30pm.

31

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2024 • T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R

BACKPAGE CONTINUATION SPEAKING IN METAPHORS AND APHORISMS reminders to others; that only fools used the early morning flow of customers to make proud pronouncements about how the day’s sales would be in the market.

Okachie once told a group of reckless young men that a man who refused to learn from the mistakes of others was like an oiled calabash that remained dry inside and outside, after long hours in water.

The oiled calabash absorbs no water. Therefore, it gives none. It gets immersed in the richest abundance, but only serves as an instrument for carrying such abundance to others. It is no example of how to absorb water when immersed in it.

Okachie would call such people forests without game! Cobs without corn! Castles without gates and guests! Clouds without rain! Hens that do not know the value of ‘kwom, kwom’, the calling sound, for guiding young chicks along the path of life and away from danger!

He once warned a disrespectful young man thus: ‘When elders see the first dance steps of a young man who receives the Ozo title at the age of twenty, they know whether he would live to be an old man.’

Okachie could say that because he had seen many such young men come and go. He was an old man now; a very old man indeed, from whom even other old men often sought wisdom.

Ejindu, his grandson, often recollected the many patient lessons and kind words of wisdom from his grandfather. He always felt humbled by the fact that his grandfather was a man so completely without airs that you sometimes wonder who, or what, he really was.

Through this patient old man, Ejindu had come to know and understand much that he would not otherwise have ever known, or understood, without the benefit of being close to his grandfather. Yes, Okachie was a man from whose words you sometimes discerned the voice of the gods. It was as if his ancestors knew his nature and gave him that name.

The name, Omee-Okachie, means ‘one who does, or says, and rules that it is over and cannot be redone – or undone’; `one whose actions, and pronouncements, are to be accepted as a matter of course’. An Omee-okachie is not to be contradicted in word or deed. He earns, receives and enjoys respect without being arrogant.

And this particular Omee-Okachie has held his position as head of his filial clan with a quiet, unobtrusive but unassailable dignity and authority. As head, he was the custodian of a family tradition.

He lived true to his name, but almost like some kind of benevolent guardian spirit to everyone. Alaoma people knew that for a fact.

As the oldest and wisest man in the community, he was now also the village Patriarch. He was, at once, leader, guide, teacher, nurse, mentor and healer.

While his position as community patriarch was conferred on him by age and wisdom, his status as Patriarch of his extended family was conferred on him by the filial Patriarch before him. It would be his task to also eventually identify another and hand over this custodianship, the way he was identified and given the mantle.

He thought about this from time to time, often wondering whether he was taking too long in handing over the custodianship to another. At least the feeling was creeping in on him that he was running out of time and that he needed to discharge this burden sooner than later.

Then, one fateful Eke market day, an incident occurred that led to his son, Obidike, becoming the new head of the filial clan. And it came without any warning.

It was just like any other day for Agbonma, his wife, Obidike and his siblings, until Okachie came back after the day`s work. They were all surprised, even a little startled, when the man of the house walked into the family compound with strangely slow and heavy steps. This was most unlike him.

When he stopped midway and stood on one spot in the compound, apparently lost in thought, Obidike and other members of the family sensed that all was not well. More so, because they noticed that he was not fully conscious of what was going on around him.

He was like a man in a semi-trance, or someone who was seeing only the thoughts in his head. Strange!

It was still early evening when he walked into the compound. The full evening was merely sneaking up from behind the late afternoon, to subtly drag it along and force it to become night. Yes, the sun’s eyelids were beginning to look heavy. They were slowly covering it in the western sky. And it looked so terribly red.

As the giver of daylight was quietly disappearing under the massive, crimson

eyelids of clouds, while it was still visible, with its wide afterglow, Okachie was still standing there in his compound.

The full evening finally came! The evening birds started singing and chirping in neighbouring bushes. The crickets started clearing their throats and warming up their wings for yet another round of night music.

What would moonlight games be without these musicians of the night? How would you enjoy the moonlight tales without the sounds that made them so genuinely traditional and real?

The crickets, the insects and other creatures of the night, usually created the chorus of sounds that added joy to every night in the community.

But Okachie could hear none of that as he stood transfixed. Whatever put him in this state must be serious and ominous. Given the sombre air, there can be no gathering of children under any benign moonbeams. No dreamy, and sometimes scary, stories about the amazing exploits of the ever-cunning tortoise, no!

But enough of Omee-Okachie and all that.

The above, from my coming book, “The Return of Ejindu, deliberately “speaks in tongues”. Nigerians are perplexed. There is fear and trembling, everywhere. Riots may escalate, as insecurity and hunger escalate.

State and local governments ignore their roles as primary custodians of the people’s welfare.

The precipice is so close, but is overlaid with coloured mats. Do you smell bad news in the air, from Okachie; who is still standing in the compound - as night closes in?

OLAYEMI CARDOSO’S DILEMMA Indeed, until the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, spoke on this issue last week, I had reckoned that the imperative of the planned relocation of some CBN departments and the headquarters of the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria from Abuja to Lagos was evident enough. I had reasoned that the Northern politicians including Senator Ali Ndume from Borno State who had moved to bring down the roof over the development were merely playing politics.

The Emir of Kano, a highly revered royal father, raised the ante last Monday while receiving the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who was in Kano to inaugurate the School of Law Building named after her by Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria, and had stopped by to pay a courtesy call on the Emir.

Emir Bayero, whose speech was translated from Hausa to English Language by a senior palace counsellor, had told the First Lady to convey his message to President Tinubu. He said among other things: “We are indeed suspicious on why Mr. President single-handedly relocated key departments of CBN, and outright relocation of FAAN to Lagos.

“We are receiving a series of messages from my subjects, and most of them expressed concern over the relocation of CBN and FAAN to Lagos.

President Tinubu should come out clean on this matter and talk to Nigerians in the language they would understand. Do more enlightenment on this matter. I, for one, cannot tell the actual intentions of the government. We should be made to actually understand why the relocation of the CBN and FAAN offices back to Lagos.”

Many will wonder why some members of the northern elites are losing their cool, misinterpreting this move and, perhaps inadvertently, heating up the polity on this rather elementary matter. Is their reservation altruistic? Or are they just being sincerely mistaken and reading unnecessary motives into the policy? With the benefit of hindsight, one can say that Cardoso and his team should have understood the political dimensions of the decision better and undertake a more effective public enlightenment on it rather than treat it as a purely administrative matter. Knowing the kind of people and country that we are and the fact that ours is a multi-ethnic, multi-religious and multicultural society where every action or decision is viewed from ethnic and religious lenses, the CBN ought not to have released the news about the movement of the departments concerned in a routine manner as it did.

It should have released the news with the detailed information and explanation behind the move. The CBN Communication Department should have deployed all in its

Cardoso

arsenal to explain the movement to its critical stakeholders and the general public. The apex bank should have seen the movement beyond a mere administrative move, which is within its remit to do. The bank should have situated the movement and anticipated the social and political meanings some may give it. That is how things run in Nigeria.

A deeper and detailed explanation was later provided when Cardozo appeared on the floor of the House of Representatives in Abuja. I was there at the session and witnessed it all. Asked by one of the members of the House from the North, at the session, the rationale behind the movement, the CBN Governor said: “There is nothing political in the movement. We didn’t change any plan. It has always been like that to ease banking supervision. Most of the banks are

based in Lagos. So it works well for supervision if our officials are there with them and close to them and close to those the banks interact with. It’s for administrative convenience. It’s also cheaper for the CBN.” He also disclosed that the movement of the departments concerned to Lagos is also important because, according to him, the country is at the point where there is a need for more banking surveillance.

It is important that the CBN governor draws the appropriate lesson from this. He sould learn from this experience that though his job of superintending the country’s monetary system is a professional and economic one, yet it has its political aspects. His decisions have consequences not only on the economy but also on the political front. As such, the CBN Governor must always pay attention

to the political ramifications of his decisions.

He must be political without being partisan.

Indeed, his situation is also not helped by the fact that he has had very political predecessorsin-office including the high-sounding Professor Chukwuma Soludo, the soft-spoken but loud former Emir of Kano, Khalifa Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, and the immediate-past Governor, Godwin Emefiele (this one even attempted to contest for president while holding the office as CBN governor).

There are a couple of things to say on the hoopla about the staff transfer though.

One, President Tinubu is receiving attacks over the movement. Emir of Kano says he must reverse it, urging the First Lady to deploy the feminine soft power to actualise this. Yet, to all intent and purposes, the President that is being asked to reverse the transfer may not have been apprised of the decision because he does not micromanage those he gives responsibilities to where their unique expertise and experience are called to service. The CBN on its part may not have briefed the President because Cardoso had seen the planned movement as purely administrative.

Secondly and more importantly, those who are responding negatively to the policy are treating Abuja as if it belongs to the North rather than being the symbol of the entire country as the Federal Capital Territory. In that capacity, as the FCT, Abuja belongs to all and belongs to no one. In the same vein, as the economic capital and nerve center of the country, Lagos is a melting pot where representatives of virtually all ethnic and cultural groups in the country reside and earn a living.

There is absolutely nothing that says that the headquarters of all Federal Agencies must be located in the Federal Capital even when economic considerations and efficiency dictate otherwise. Some federal agencies reside neither in Abuja nor Lagos at present and their work go on unimpeded.

In any case, President Tinubu’s pan-Nigerian outlook and credentials are too well known.

His ability to build political and personal networks and relationships across the length and breath of the country were partly responsible for his victory in the keenly contested 2023 presidential election. He will be the last person to approve or support any policy designed to be detrimental to any part of the country.

But for CBN Governor Cardoso, all of that represents his baptism of fire and a wake-up call for him to be a little more flexible particularly in matters that have wider political connotations.

•Rahman is a Senior Presidential aide

Saturday, February 17, 2024

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Afenifere to National Assembly “All legislative works regarding restructuring along with the shift from presidential to parliamentary must take place within the first two or three years of this administration.

The new law can be test-run in the states’ elections that will take place in 2026, while the 2027 general elections must be conducted on the basis of a constitution proclaiming United Regions of Nigeria under a Parliamentary System of Government. Such a system should be one that confers powers to the constituent parts on matters affecting their respective areas” –National Publicity Secretary, Afenifere, Jare Ajayi

OKEYIKECHUKWU Speaking in Metaphors and Aphorisms EDIFYING ELUCIDATIONS

okey.ikechukwu@thisdaylive.com

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the wise, was always a man of great insights. He knew Alaoma and its people like the back of his hand. But he was also not a man of many words. Were he a man of many words, he would have told Ejindu, his grandson, and many other people, that his insight into people’s nature and character was a gift of the gods.

He would also probably have said that it was partly because he had seen so many years in the village that he could tell the turn of events simply by sniffing the wind.

But he was no talkative. Thus, no one knew his thoughts on these matters.

He was always his own man. He believed that the spoken word should be accompanied by action; hence his aversion for people who talked too much. He once rebuked an imprudent prattler by advising him to watch his steps, lest he step on a rattlesnake and join his ancestors prematurely.

Okachie taught his son Obidike, and his grandson, Ejindu, that one must always do one`s best to ascertain which bridges to burn and which ones to cross in life. He always warned them never to forget that no one could do an evil did and truly be at peace with himself, or with the gods.

Tinubu

He sometimes spoke of destiny, but of destiny made by each individual for himself. He would not give window to the lazy and unsuccessful who blame destiny for their failings. Nor would

he approve of the attitude of the brave and successful who make the mistake of flaunting their achievements, as if in defiance of the gods.

He respected and praised diligence and responsible behaviour, in leaders and the led alike. He had no regard for the bad people in the community, whatsoever. The repeated attempts of many good people to call the depraved among them to their senses over the years had all been to no avail.

Okachie, therefore, knew for a fact that the bad, the depraved and the temporarily triumphant in Alaoma, had prepared their own fate. He also knew that the fate so prepared had become inevitable.

He has seen many people rise and fall in his long and eventful life. He has also watched the fortunes of those who overrated themselves plummet. He has come to realize, with time, why the fate of people who overrated themselves was always easy to predict.

He likened them to reckless butterflies which, thinking that they could take liberties with the flickering light of the open flame of an oil lamp, soon discovered that the fire usually burnt flying insects to death. And the discovery always came when it was too late for the unfortunate insects.

The few reckless, fire-loving, night insects that

managed to survive such encounters usually got de-winged and diminished; unable to ever fly again. Thus, de-winged, they would not show themselves anywhere among flying things ever again. They had become crawling things, through their own efforts at folly. They would all be eventually eaten by ants, rodents, frogs and worms. Their tomfoolery made their fate inevitable.

Okachie used to warn Ejindu, his grandson, not to be deceived if some bad and reckless people appear to be doing well. Not even when their prosperity lasts for a while! And not when their apparent good fortune seemeds to make a mockery of the gods and of the laws of the land. It would only seem to be so, Okachie would say.

Such people usually came to no good in the end. More often than not, their end was quick and inglorious. They would pass away with appalling ease, unsung; to be remembered occasionally when parents wished to admonish their children about the dangers of presumption and reckless living.

Like the morning flower that withered with the upward climb of the morning sun, the memory of such people served as perpetual Continued on page 31

TUNDERAHMAN Olayemi Cardoso’s Dilemma GUEST COLUMNIST

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hose who know Mr. Olayemi Cardoso will agree he got his current job as the Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria on a platter of solid professional background and strong personal attributes. His pedigree is rich as his character is unsullied. Cardoso had a remarkable private sector career where he shone brilliantly in banking, stockbroking and consulting.

Cardoso also came from a very solid family pedigree. Nigeria’s late Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, appointed his late father, Mr. Felix Bankole Cardoso, as the first Accountant-General of the Federation in 1963.

The late elder Cardoso served with enviable record till 1971.

Part of the remarkable private sector career of Olayemi Cardoso was his appointment as the Chairman of the Board of Citi Bank in Nigeria.

Cardoso began his public service journey when he became the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning in the cabinet of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Governor of Lagos State as he then was in 1999. In addition to superintending that

ministry, Cardoso was charged with several other responsibilities including heading important cabinet committees that birthed landmark agencies in the state. Cardoso was known for enforcing strict budgetary discipline that contributed significantly to the overall success of the Tinubu administration in Lagos. He refused to authorise the release of funds for projects or programmes that had no budgetary head.

For all of that and many more, Cardoso was nicknamed the Headmaster.

Armed with a Bachelor of Science degree in Managerial and Administrative Studies and Masters in Public Administration from the prestigious Harvard Kennedy School of Government and parading strong personal attributes, Cardoso is obviously a perfect fit for the CBN top job. He is calm but firm, strict but fair, prudent but practical, straightforward and honest with loads of integrity. These are the unique qualities he carried unto his job at the apex bank and his major selling points when on September 23, 2023 he officially assumed office with the Senate confirmation of his appointment.

However, it does appear Cardoso will need

much more than that to succeed in his present assignment. Under him, the CBN seems to be doing the right thing or doing things right: thinking and working on coming up with appropriate monetary policies, moving to rein in the rising foreign exchange rates and particularly achieve an appropriate value for the naira, which Cardoso believes has been undervalued.

But in the wake of the floating of the Naira, some of the variables shaping the value of the national currency, including limited production in the country as a result of insecurity, Nigerians’ high taste for imported products, dwindling exports, poor dollar remittances, humongous school fees of Nigerian students abroad and medical tourism all of which engendered a strong demand for dollar, far outweighing supply, seem to be clearly beyond his control.

Until these situations change for better, no amount of monetary policies by the CBN will work any miracle, hence Cardoso’s predicament. For instance, in his presentation at the sectoral debate organised by the House of Representatives two weeks ago, the CBN

governor lamented that the growing number of Nigerian students studying abroad, increasing medical tourism and food imports have led to the depreciation of the Naira against the Dollar. According to him, over the past decade, foreign exchange demand for education and healthcare totalled nearly $40 billion, surpassing the total current foreign exchange reserves of the CBN, while personal travel allowances accounted for a total of $58.7 billion during the same period.

Another critical yet intriguing factor but seemingly odd in Cardoso’s reckoning is the perception in some quarters of some of the decisions of the CBN, which the apex bank considers purely administrative, but which some others give strange connotations.

One of such is the decision to move some departments of the bank; notably banking supervision, other financial institutions supervision, consumer protection department and payment system management department from Abuja to Lagos.

Continued on page 31

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