FRIDAY 15TH MARCH 2024

Bagudu: FG Earmarked N100bn for Consumer Credit Initiative, N60bn for Student Loan Scheme

Refutes alleged padding of 2024 budget, insists legislature has last word on appropriation

James Emejo in Abuja

Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, disclosed yesterday that N100 billion was earmarked in the 2024 budget to fund the proposed consumer credit system, designed to stimulate consumption as well as encourage local manufacturing.

Bagudu also said N60 billion was budgeted for the students’ loan programme, which was recently suspended to allow for more stakeholders’ input.

Speaking during an interaction with journalists in Abuja, the minister said both initiatives, among others, were laudable innovations by President Bola Tinubu to aid

Nigerians and the economy at large.

Bagudu further clarified that contrary to ongoing narratives on the alleged padding of the 2024 appropriation, there were no infractions in the making of the budget.

He insisted that the National Assembly had the last word on issues of appropriation given its oversight powers over public institutions.

The minister said the ministry aligned with the statement issued earlier by the presidency, which sought to clarify the allegations of padding.

Bagudu stated that the National Assembly had the power to either add or subtract any item from the budget without breaching any provision of

the Appropriation Act.

He said some of the controversial items that were being regarded as padding had to do with constituency allocations, which were lawful, as well as issues around the foreign exchange that was adjusted to reflect current realities.

Bagudu said, “When people talk about padding, I think that the word has been narrowed to a negative form, whereas in reality, there can be no appropriation without either addition or subtraction of a sum, or agreeing to what was presented, or addition of a new project.

“Following the presentation of the budget to the National Assembly, there have been some issues; the presidency issued a statement, which

we are fully in agreement with, about the size of the budget and where the mistake is coming from.

“Mr. President presented a budget of 27.503 trillion and the National Assembly in its wisdom increased the budget to 28.77 trillion, an increase of about N1.2 trillion.

“When we presented the budget, we presented at the exchange rate of N750 to the dollar but the National Assembly adjusted it to N800 to the dollar. And that, therefore, created more revenue.”

The minister said, “Equally, the National Assembly appropriated that the government-owned enterprises that contribute revenue should contribute more and that was the source of the additional funding of the

budget. The additional money was used to increase the budget of the judiciary, legislature, and executive.

“The president in signing the 2024 appropriation acknowledged that in a democracy, institutions have their power and the National Assembly has the last word when it comes to appropriation and he appreciated their wisdom.

“We chose democracy and it has its own opportunity cost, part of it is that power is split among institutions and that is the best system we have.”

On the constituency allocations, the minister explained, “This is quite often the case of a democracy that is evolving with a lot of demands – all elected persons, particularly,

TELCOS, SUBMARINE OPERATORS CONFIRM MAJOR CUT ON SUBSEA CABLE IN RED SEA

people in the legislature are elected by people in constituencies and they make several demands on them, which is not an unusual phenomenal.

“It is in all democracy. As representatives of the people, they are under pressure to respect the wishes of their people by ensuring that part of the public spending in a year affects the constituencies for which they are elected to represent.

Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC), the telecoms

Relatedly, the senate, yesterday, rejected allegations of fraud in the turnaround maintenance of the country's refineries currently being undertaken by NNPCL.

Chairman of the senate ad hoc panel probing the turnaround maintenance work undertaken by the federal government through NNPCL, Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, told his colleagues that he already had some documents on the issue, but no fraudulent practice had so far been discovered in the exercise.

Nigeria has long been a net importer of almost all its petroleum products. But the country recently put up for rehabilitation its four comatose refineries, which were expected to come on stream by the end of the year.

At the event in Abuja, the NNPCL GCEO stated that the writing of the books depicted the quality of human beings that had passed through the organisation.

industry regulator, confirmed the cut. NCC said a combination of cable cuts, resulting in equipment faults on the major undersea cables along the West African Coast had negatively impacted data and fixed telecom services in several countries of West Africa, including Nigeria, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Senegal, and Cote d’Ivoire.

In a statement signed by its Director, Public Affairs, Mr. Reuben Muoka, NCC said, "The cuts occurred somewhere in Cote d’Ivoire and Senegal, with an attendant disruption in Portugal."

Cable companies – West African Cable System (WACS) and African Coast to Europe (ACE) in the West Coast route from Europe – have

experienced faults, while SAT3 and MainOne have downtime, according to NCC.

The statement said, "Similar undersea cables providing traffic from Europe to the East Coast of Africa, like Seacom, Europe India Gateway (EIG), Asia-Africa-Europe 1 (AAE1), are said to have been cut at some point around the Red Sea, resulting in degradation of services across these routes.

NNPC VOWS TO END FUEL IMPORTATION IN 2024 AS PH REFINERY BEGINS PRODUCTION IN 2 WEEKS NSA,

Kyari, who was initially represented by the national oil company’s Chief Financial Officer, Umar Ajiya, before he showed up, stated, “It is not an easy task, but it is a task that must be done and which has been obligated upon that company, especially now I see the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). Whether we did it at a profit or at loss in the past is nobody's business.

“But the Act has simply made it possible now that we can do it, but on the account of the federation. So we can never declare loss to Nigerians.

And that's why, as he said, we have moved from a loss-making corporation, literally six months, when we took over, we broke even, by the first year we had declared profit.

“We have moved the company from one that is fundamentally focused on upstream development to refining and downstream marketing.

“The chief host has alluded to the inefficiencies of the past, of where we were literally sending crude outside and importing fuel.

“That trajectory will change this year. And Nigerians will not be buying petroleum products, but will be refining a lot of petroleum products to fund development. This is a commitment that NNPC chief executive, board and management of the NNPC have made to Nigerians and we are able to do it.”

Kyari recommended the book, “Dynamics of Petroleum Products Marketing,” and “Insight into Crude Oil Marketing,” to both the local and international players, who might want to know what it took to run the sector in a country like Nigeria.

He described Okoye as a man full of energy, capacity, and competence, and who had remained simple and humble, despite his many achievements.

Kyari added, “That’s something to be proud of. So we at NNPC are, indeed, very proud that one of us is not only sharing knowledge that has over the years been with the rest of us, but also something that can grow for a very long time in the academic world and also the world over.”

Equally speaking at the book launch, the author, Okoye, who is current Coordinator, Oil, Gas and Energy Marketing at the University of Abuja Business School, said the books aimed to offer a comprehensive understanding of the intricate dynamics, the challenges, and strategies involved in marketing commodities.

He stated that the books provided insights into refining processes, pricing mechanisms, political influences, fuel subsidy issues, and the ongoing energy transition processes, as well as a comprehensive framework for navigating the complexities of petroleum products marketing.

Okoye added, “By offering practical insights and analytical perspectives, this book aims to equip readers with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the volatile and ever-changing world of crude oil marketing.”

At the event, which also saw the launch of AptFuel Technologies, Okoye stated that drawing from hands-on experience, he attempted to distil the complexities into accessible and informative resources for professionals, academics, and engineers alike.

The chief host and Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja, Professor Abdulrasheed Na’Allah, said Nigeria needed more opportunities for universities to bring about ideas that will resolve some of the gigantic problems in the oil sector.

Na’Allah told the author, “These are books that are long-awaited. I'm very proud of you, but this is just the beginning. You need to write more books and explain why oil has to be a curse.”

In his remarks, Executive Vice President of NNPCL, Olalekan Ogunleye, stated that the books will equip readers with the knowledge needed to navigate the broad and often unpredictable terrain of crude oil marketing.

Meanwhile, the senate, yesterday, disowned alleged reports of fraud in the turnaround maintenance of the country's refineries currently being undertaken by the NNPCL.

That was as Kyari assured

Nigerians that the rehabilitation of the refineries would be completed on schedule. He specifically said the Port Harcourt refinery would come on stream within the next two weeks, while the Kaduna refinery would start producing by December this year.

Kyari spoke when he appeared before the senate ad hoc committee probing the maintenance being undertaken by NNPC on behalf of the federal government.

Chairman of the ad hoc panel, Ubah, said he was in possession of some documents on the issue, but no fraudulent practice had been discovered in the turnaround exercise.

Ubah said the country would want to know that progress was being made on the rehabilitation of the refineries

He said, "I have seen some documents indicating that something is being done and there is nothing to suggest that there is a foul play in the exercise."

Ubah added that members of the committee would visit all the refineries with a view to ascertaining the progress of work there so that a comprehensive report could be presented to the senate in plenary soonest.

A member of the ad hoc committee, Senator Mpigi Barnada, urged the NNPCL management to pay attention to the security challenges in the oil-rich Niger Delta. Barnada said it would not augur well if the refineries were fixed and insecurity prevented crude from getting there.

Briefing journalists after the engagement, Kyari gave an update on the progress of work at the refineries.

He said, "In the next two weeks, we are to start producing more products. Completion mechanical has been achieved at the Port Harcourt refinery. We are done with rehabilitation work there, now you are to test if this completion is okay.

"As for Warri, we have also completed the mechanical works on it and it is undergoing the regulatory compliance processes that we are doing with our regulator. This also will be completed and it will be ready.

"Kaduna refinery will be ready by December, we have not reached that stage with the Kaduna refinery. All crude lines are active and have actually delivered over 450,000 barrels into Port Harcourt refinery.

"We are confident of the integrity of it. Yes, there may be security issues, but also government is responding to the situation."

"In Nigeria and other West African countries, Internet access and speed have experienced disruptions in the networks of service providers in the affected countries.

“Operators of these cables have commenced repairs already, and services are gradually being restored.

"They have promised to work round the clock to ensure that services are restored to the affected countries within the shortest possible time."

Chairman, Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbenga Adebayo, also confirmed the cut on the submarine cable in the Red Sea. But Adebayo explained that Nigeria was not significantly impacted by the cut, because Nigeria had multiple submarine cables from Europe and Asia, and did not depend on a single submarine cable.

According to him, “We have been informed of a major cut on one of the submarine cables in the Red

discussion centred on strategic plans on how to rescue the internally displaced persons, schoolchildren and Tsangaya students recently abducted by terrorists in Borno, Kaduna and Sokoto states respectively.

But the Defence Headquarters, yesterday, confirmed that security forces were receiving foreign support and intelligence in the ongoing efforts to rescue hundreds of abducted school children in Kaduna.

This was as the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called for stiffer penalties for kidnappers in the country, coming 24 hours after President Bola Tinubu foreclosed the possibility of paying ransom to kidnappers before securing freedom for victims.

At the same time, gunmen, who kidnapped 286 students and staff from a school, last week, have demanded a total of 1 billion naira ($620,432) for their release, a spokesman for the families of the hostages and a local councillor, told Reuters.

Yet, the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr. Ahmed Audi, has said efforts were in top gear to get the Kaduna abducted students released, insisting that with the collaborative efforts of all security agencies, there would be speedy recovery of the students.

Nevertheless, Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, has disclosed that the FCT administration was considering the idea of purchasing some drones to monitor kidnappers and bandits

Sea, but Nigeria is not significantly impacted by the cut on that particular submarine cable, because Nigeria has several submarine cables landing at the sea shore of the country.

“The countries that are significantly impacted by the cut on that particular submarine cable are Ghana, Liberia, Cote d’Ivoire and some parts of South Africa. Because some of the ISPs in Nigeria are connected indirectly to that submarine cable, Nigeria was slightly affected and operators are currently re-routing customers to their backups and to other existing submarine cables in Nigeria. Those affected in Nigeria will suffer the impact for a while, pending when restoration is completed, which will last for few days.”

Asked if the cut on the submarine cable could be an act of sabotage, the spokesperson of the telecommunications companies (telcos) said it would be difficult to say if it was an act of sabotage, since the location of the submarine cable at the bed of the sea is several kilometres below sea level. He said it would take a coordinated attempt to damage a submarine cable, since it would involve experts and sophisticated equipment to achieve such destruction.

Adebayo said investigation was ongoing to ascertain the cause of the cut, and promised to make the investigation public.

Some submarine operators, who

operating from the states bordering the FCT.

However, the meeting by the nation’s security heads, which started at about 1:30pm came on the heels of a marching order by President Bola Tinubu to the security forces to rescue the children unhurt and without paying a dime as ransom.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, had conveyed the president’s message on Wednesday that the federal government would not pay any money as ransom to the terrorists, who had earlier demanded N40trn.

Speaking after the meeting, which ended at about 6pm, Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum, Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, said the meeting was convened to discuss and review strategies towards tackling cases of insecurity in the North.

"The essence of the meeting as you can see is between the governors and the service chiefs and the National Security Adviser.

"So, it relates to security and you know security is very typical, especially that there were the recent issues of kidnapping in the North-West and we are becoming so concerned that we need to discuss, review and possibly take alternative options to what we have been doing before so that we can have a better result," he said.

The governor added that the need for a collaborative approach to tackling insecurity in the region necessitated the meeting, stressing the need for

spoke to THISDAY, also ruled out sabotage. Some of them said the cut could be caused by natural disaster or the effect of Shark and propeller from moving ships. They said they had informed their customers of the damage and the effect, promising that restoration of services will be completed soon.

9PSB, one of the licensed payment service banks in Nigeria, sent out messages to their customers, telling them about the service disruption and the ongoing restoration plan.

Part of the message from 9PSB read, “There valued customers, this is to inform you about an ongoing emergency service resolution following a challenge with our ISPs. While we are working to quickly restore services, you may experience disruptions while accessing our services, and, therefore, we request your understanding while we conclude the resolution. You will be advised as soon as services are fully restored.”

Similarly, MTN, wrote in a message to its customers, “We apologise for the challenges you may be experiencing with internet speed and accessing data services at the moment.

“This is as a result of damage to international undersea cables across East and West Africa.

“The repair process is ongoing to resolve the situation as soon as possible.

“Please, look out for further updates.”

non-kinetic and kinetic approaches to address the remote causes of insecurity.

Yahaya noted that the security agencies were doing their best, but there was the need for non-kinetic approach to address the root causes of the problem.

"In fact, that's the best way to go because the issue is until we join the two (approaches) and already the service chiefs and all other security agencies have been doing their best.

"So what we need to do is to change style, especially in addition with the non-kinetic approach, so that at the end of it when we join the two, we'll have a better security situation in the country," he said.

A highly-placed official within the security agencies confided in

THISDAY that the meeting had Governors Uba Sani (Kaduna), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), Babagana Zulum (Borno), Radda Dikko (Katsina), and Abdullahi Sule (Nasarawa), among others in attendance.

THISDAY had reported how terrorists abducted 287 students from a primary and secondary school in Kuriga, Kaduna State on March 7, while 112 IDPs in Gamboru Ngala, Borno, were also abducted by terrorists. The abduction of 15 Quranic school students in Sokoto State followed the Kuriga incident, a development several bodies had condemned.

DHQ: Security Forces

Bagudu

FROM GERMANY WITH LOVE...

FG to MDAs: Prioritise Digital Infrastructure Investments For Business Efficiency and Productivity

Flays constraints hindering permit issuance for companies in digital economy sector

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy; the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), and the Federal Ministry of Environment to align regulations and tax frameworks to facilitate investment expansion in telecommunications and broadband infrastructure nationwide.

The President issued the directive at a meeting yesterday with a delegation from American

Tower Corporation (ATC) Nigeria at the State House in Abuja, expressing dissatisfaction with the bureaucratic pace in permit issuance processing for companies operating in the digital infrastructure sector. Chief Executive Officer of ATC Africa, Mr. Marek Busfy had earlier expressed ATC Nigeria's commitment to expanding its investments in the country, which have already surpassed $2.19 billion since its commencement of Nigerian operations in 2015.

Busfy also emphasized ATC's commitment to delivering value

to subscribers while reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with its operations.

Responding, President Tinubu commended ATC Nigeria for its significant contributions and investments in the country's ICT sector, highlighting the importance of innovative solutions to bridge the digital divide.

The President lauded the ongoing efforts of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy to promote digital connectivity across the nation, particularly

the three million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme that functions to upskill three million Nigerian youths in digital literacy and innovation through innovation incubators nationwide.

President Tinubu outlined ongoing initiatives to establish broadband connectivity in all 774 local government secretariats within six months, leveraging existing infrastructure, such as NIGCOMSAT and Galaxy Backbone's fibre optic network.

According to him: ''In the area of ease of doing business,

FG Okays Upgrade of Federal College of Dental Technology to University

Approves setting up of regional coordinating centre of Africa-CDC in Nigeria Appoints CMDs for two federal medical centres

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has approved the upgrade of the Federal College of Dental Technology and Therapy, Enugu, to a full-fledged University of Allied Health Sciences. This move, according to a release issued on Thursday by presidential spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, is part of the President's dedicated efforts to build robust human resources for the health and social welfare sector.

The Federal College of Dental Technology and Therapy in Enugu will now be known as the Federal University of Allied Health Sciences, Enugu, and will be domiciled under the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

The presidential directive came at a time when President Tinubu, who doubles as the African Union (AU) Champion for Human Resources for Health, is set to train 120,000 frontline health workers nationwide within 16 months and to double the number of primary health facilities in local communities across all local government areas of the federation from

8,800 presently to over 17,000 over the next three years.

The President is also doubling the number of health personnel graduating from accredited nursing and midwifery institutions over the next three years in order to meet the aspirations of Nigerians for accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare services across the nation.

The President has also approved the establishment of the Regional Coordinating Centre (RCC) of the Africa Centres for Disease Control (Africa-CDC) in Nigeria.

President Tinubu is the African Union (AU) Champion for Human Resources for Health and Community Health Delivery Partnership.

The President's approval of the siting of the Centre in Abuja is part of his larger effort to convey Nigeria’s commitment to regional and global health security, while promoting local economic opportunities in the health care delivery value chain and enhancing Nigeria's and West Africa's collective capacity to respond promptly to outbreaks which

is vital to the overall well-being and stability of the African continent.

The Centre will also bring with it enormous socio-economic benefits in the form of enhancing aggregate national productivity and reversing human capacity drain, even as the ability of indigenous medical professionals and scientists will be bolstered to respond adequately to old, recent, and emerging diseases, not only in Nigeria, but across the continent.

Also on Thursday, President Tinubu approved the appointment of Dr. James Enimi Omietimi as Chief Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, for an initial term of four years, and the reappointment of Professor Sa'ad Aliyu Ahmed as Chief Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre, Abuja, for a second term of four years.

The President expects that the newly appointed Chief Medical Directors, leveraging their vast experience and professional competence, will facilitate the consistent delivery of quality healthcare services to all Nigerians in tandem with

the Renewed Hope Agenda of ensuring that all services in federal government hospitals are world-class, people-centred, and delivered in accordance with best industry practice.

Omietimi, an accomplished medical professional graduated from the University of Port Harcourt in 1994 with a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery degree (MBBS), and began his medical career with specialization in Obstetrics and Gynaecology. He has held various leadership positions, including President of the Association of Resident Doctors.

Ahmed is a distinguished Professor of Pathology at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, concurrently serving as the Chief Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre, Abuja, for four years during his initial tenure. He holds fellowships from esteemed institutions such as the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria, the International College of Surgeons (USA), the College of American Pathologists (USA), and the Central East and Southern Africa College of Pathology (South Africa).

no nation can make progress without paying attention to the opportunities that are right in front of them. We have a vibrant youth population that has successfully innovated without much government support. What now happens in this era when we are providing massive support to their digital economic activities? They will do very well. You are investing in the right place at the right time.

''Considering our population and land mass, we need your investments to ensure that we are ready for a higher level of digital penetration in the telecommunications sector and the specific type of digital education that is needed in the competitive, knowledge-based global economy of the 21st century".

Addressing concerns raised by the delegation regarding the ease of doing business in Nigeria, President Tinubu assured them of his administration's commitment to implementing reforms that will eliminate bureaucratic constraints.

In response to a request from the delegation for a reduction in withholding tax for telecommunications companies to stimulate investments in telecommunications and broadband infrastructure, the President said the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) would review the matter and provide a solution that is in the best interest of both the investors

and the Nigerian people.

''Every citizen, whether at the corporate or individual level, fights tax. Let us work with the FIRS and see how we can slice the cake. If the country has a good path of growth, it is a greater opportunity for you to invest,'' the President stated.

In his remarks, the CEO of ATC Africa reiterated the company's readiness to invest further in Nigeria's ICT infrastructure to meet the market's growing demand for data, while lauding the clarity of strategy demonstrated by the administration, particularly praising the roadmap and efforts of the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani.

''Mr. President, what has struck me in Nigeria is the clarity of strategy by your administration, particularly in the ICT sector, and the administration's 3MTT programme. In the last year, we have invested over $200 million in growing our infrastructure in Nigeria, and we are ready to do significantly more.

''We have employed several hundred people in Nigeria and 25,000 more indirectly. We have paid about $400 million in taxes, both direct and indirect. As an American company, we are often asked about our experience in Africa and in Nigeria, and we want to stress that we are very ethical in our approach to business,'' Busfy said.

Naira Makes U-Turn Declines at Parallel Market, Appreciates at Official Window

Nume Ekeghe

The naira yesterday made a U-turn as it marginally declined at the parallel to N1,605/$1 from N1,600/$1 it exchanged on Wednesday.

However, the official Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange (NAFEM) recorded gain, closing at N1,608.98 signifying a N6.96

gain compared to N1, 615.94 it closed on Wednesday.

Notably, the daily turnover recorded yesterday was$243.65 million indicating a 2.05 per cent decline from $248.75 million, quoted on Wednesday.

Also, the highest spot rate yesterday was pegged at N1625, while the lowest spot rate recorded was N1,576.

L-R: Wife of the German Consul General, Dr. Mike Borner; Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, and the Consul General, Mr. Weert Borner, when the Consul General paid a courtesy call on the governor, in his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, on Thursday.

COURTESY CALL ON THE VICE PRESIDENT...

House Wants NAFDAC to Lift Ban on Production, Sale of Sachet Alcoholic Drinks

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The House of Representatives yesterday called on the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to, as a matter of urgency, lift the ban placed on the production and sale of sachet alcoholic drinks and 200ml pet bottles.

The Green Chamber was of the opinion that the timing of the ban was

inappropriate considering the current economic conditions, staggering unemployment, soaring inflation and high rate of poverty level.

The resolution of the House was sequel to the consideration and adoption of the report of the House Committee overseeing the activities of NAFDAC which investigated the ban.

The House pointed out that the ban of sachet alcohol

should be replaced with the establishment of licensed liquor stores/outlets in Local Government Areas across the country and making it unlawful to send under-age persons to purchase alcoholic beverages.

The lawmakers noted that parents, religious bodies and Non-Governmental Organisation (NGOs) should be tasked to counsel their children or ward, especially the under-aged, on the danger

of alcohol consumption.

The lawmakers added that the process of enforcement should be tightened, with increased monitoring and compliance checks by NAFDAC and others to ensure strict product quality in terms of content and safety.

The lawmakers also said that producers of sachet alcohol should expose the dangers associated with the abuse of alcohol sachet

UTM Seeks NCDMB’s Equity Investment, Approvals for Nigeria's First Floating LNG Project

Peter Uzoho

UTM Offshore Limited, promoters of Nigeria’s first Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (FLNG) facility has requested the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) to invest equity in the project and to accelerate key approvals that would fast-track the project’s development.

The company made the request Wednesday at the Nigerian Content Tower in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State when the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Felix Ogbe hosted the management of UTM Offshore Limited led by the Group Managing Director, Mr. Julius Rone.

The corporate communications department of the NCDMB announced this in a statement issued yesterday.

The FLNG project targeted for completion in 2028 hopes to contribute about 450,000 tonnes of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), otherwise known as cooking gas per annum to the domestic market.

The volume from the facility is expected to assuage Nigeria’s average demand of about 1.5 million tonnes of LPG per annum and reduce the dependence on the importation of LPG.

Giving a brief on the company, Rone stated that UTM is a 100 per cent indigenous company, and that the floating LNG project will optimise Nigeria’s stranded gas offshore, enhance energy transition, promote domestic consumption of cooking gas, and aid technology transfer, among other benefits.

He invited the NCDMB to take equity in the project, hinting that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) and the Delta state government were already partners on the project given its importance to Nigeria’s energy security.

Rone described the FLNG as another confirmation of the capability of Nigerians to develop projects of world-class standards.

He announced that roadshows were being planned for Uyo and Abuja in April 2024, to showcase the Nigerian Content opportunities in the project and to engender increased participation of Nigerian oil and gas services companies.

The UTM Offshore boss thanked the board’s management for facilitating the project’s progress, just as he solicited greater synergy with his company on all aspects of Nigerian Content

implementation and overall development of the project.

Providing further details, the Technical Manager of the FLNG, George Amara stated that the project's target total production is 2.72 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), with LNG accounting for 1.81 MTPA, LPG taking up 0.45 MTPA, and condensate making up 0.25 MTPA.

He commended NCDMB for approving key stages of the development, including Pre-Front-End Engineering Design (Pre-FEED), the Pre-FEED Nigerian Content Development (NCD) Plan, and the Front-EndEngineering Design (FEED) NCD Plan.

Other accomplishments, according to him, included the Engineering Procurement Construction NCD Plan, the training of three indigenous engineers for Pre-FEED Nigerian Content Development, and the engagement of 13 Nigerian engineers for the FEED NCD scope as well the engagement of Nigerian engineering firms for different aspects of the project.

He affirmed that UTM FLNG would utilise Nigerian fabrication yards for incountry activities, adding that an inspection of prospective

yards in Lagos and Calabar had been completed.

He hinted that the project was going into the Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Installation & Commissioning (EPCIC) stage, which is very critical, hence the need to update the NCDMB and request speedy approval for the EPC NCD Plan.

In his response, the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Ogbe, expressed delight with the progress recorded on the UTM FLNG and assured that the Board will provide all the required approvals.

He urged the company’s management to “be proactive. Let us know whatever challenge or obstacles that you encounter”, assuring that the Board would do all that is within its powers to assist the company and others showing resourcefulness.

On the request for equity investment, the executive secretary promised to consider the application with the board’s management and to escalate the proposal to the board’s governing council for further consideration.

He also promised that the board would participate in the Nigerian Content roadshow, to explore opportunities for other Nigerian firms on the FLNG project.

products, by boldly inscribing and enumerating the danger on the packs, as obtained in the case of tobacco.

The House added: "Government regulatory bodies should place more emphasis on regulation, monitoring and enlightenment campaigns to educate stakeholders and the general public on the dangers of under aged consumption of alcohol and its sales in motor parks.

"Enlightenment campaigns should be carried out in

secondary schools across the country, as practiced by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), to educate students on dangers and vices associated with the abuse of alcohol.

"Regulatory mechanisms should be strengthened to ensure enforcement and compliance and encourage legislation promoting recycling materials for green economy and minimising importation of raw materials used in producing pet bottles and sachets to conserve FX."

State Police: RULAAC Calls for Participatory, Inclusive, Transparent Debate

Kuni Tyessi, Abuja

As calls for the need of state policing surges and takes national discourse, the Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre, RULAAC, says is success depends greatly on participation of all Nigerians, inclusivity and transparency as well as allowing a diversity of opinions for consensus building.

Debate on the call for state police is coming on the backdrop of the spike in the spate of kidnappings and banditry across the country, including the federal capital territory, and the inability of the police to contain the crisis.

Speaking on Thursday in Abuja during a stakeholder’s dialogue on ’insecurity and state police’ executive director of RULAAC, Okechukwu Nwanguma said the issue of whether state police is the answer to tackling insecurity in Nigeria is a complex and controversial topic that requires answers on questions surrounding accountability and its other attendant risks.

He said while the bill has gone through second reading and has proceeded to the constitution review committee, many have continued to argue to whether it would improve the current

state of security by allowing a quicker response to local security issues, or it would lead to the abuse of power, politicization and conflicts between federal and state authorities.

“At the root of the current debate has been certain spectacular developments in the trajectory of unabated insecurity in Nigeria and the inability of the police, as presently structured, to effectively tackle insecurity and guarantee public order and peace which are essential for development.

“While we argue that having state police could improve security in Nigeria, as it would allow for a quicker response to local security issues, others argue that it could lead to abuse of power, politicization of the police force, and possible conflicts between state and federal authorities.

“The civil society panel on police reform 2012, in its report warned that state police should only be established on a basis of strict adherence to the principles of operational autonomy, and be based on sound professional practice in appointment, operations and control” he said.

So far, insecurity has cost hundreds millions of lives and invaluable worth of property and has destroyed means of livelihoods.

L-R: Director, Corporate and Regulatory Affairs, Olam Agri Nigeria, Mr. Ade Adefeko; Managing Director, Olam Agri Nigeria, Mr. Anil Nair; Nigeria's Vice President, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and Chief Agronomist Olam Agri Nigeria, Dr Umaru Ismaila, during a courtesy call on Vice President Shettima in Abuja. ...recently

Tinubu Asks Senate to Repeal, Re-enact Students Loan Act

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu yesterday asked the Senate to repeal and re-enact the Access to Higher Education Act, 2023, otherwise known as the Students Loan Act. Tinubu’s letter came during plenary, a day after the announcement of a temporary suspension of the commencement of the student loan programme

The law was enacted to give Nigerian students ample opportunity enrol in tertiary educational institutions to obtain low-interest loans in order to complete their education.

The bill which was signed by Tinubu in June 2023 was expected to be launched on Thursday March 14, 2024, but was put on hold indefinitely by the federal government.

The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, Akintunde Sawyer, made the disclosure during an interview with Arise News on Tuesday, 12th March, 2024.

He said: “Unfortunately, I won’t be able to commit to a specific date. We are sort of waiting to ensure that all the stakeholders are aligned to make sure that nobody is blindsided, then we can actually

TETFund: Ododo Calls for Improved Education Funding, Human Capital Devt

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja and Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Ododo yesterday called for improvement in funding for education to accelerate human capital development in Nigeria.

The governor made the call when he paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Secretary, Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), Sonny Echono at the headquarters of TETFUND in Abuja.

Ododo, who expressed gratitude for the intervention by TETFUND in tertiary institutions in Kogi state called on the executive secretary to assist the state with access to improved funding for high impact projects in tertiary educational institutions in Kogi state.

“I commend TETFUND for the impact in the development of tertiary education in Kogi state, particularly the speedy development of our brand new Kogi State University, Kabba which recently held its maiden matriculation of its first set of over 1,000 students and has fully commenced academic activities.

“I must say that TETFUND has made remarkable impact in supporting higher institutions in Kogi State such as the Prince Abubakar Audu University Ayingba, Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara, Kogi State Polytechnic Lokoja,

College of Education Ankpa, College of Education (Technical) Kabba.

“ But we will continue to seek your support for intervention in developing critical infrastructure in our tertiary educational institutions to help in advancing our agenda for accelerated human capital development in the state,” he said.

The governor who applauded the leadership of TETFUND for the support received by higher educational institutions in Kogi state noted that the state government was in need of more interventions for its tertiary educational institutions, especially under the special high impact intervention fund by the organisation.

Ododo, who restated his administration’s agenda for human capital development in the state emphasised that education remains the most important catalyst for the development of any society.

He assured that his administration will promote key priority areas in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics in all the higher institutions in the state to ensure that no child of school age is left behind in the state.

In his welcome address, the Executive Secretary of TETFUND, Echono, promised that the organisation will continue to support Kogi state through its interventions in tertiary education.

roll this out in a meaningful, comprehensive, wholesome, and sustainable way.”

The criticisms levelled at the qualifying requirements for applicants, repayment plans, and governance structure following the law's signing may have some bearing on the president's decision.

The president's letter which sought an expeditious consideration of the bill read in part: “Pursuant to Section 58 (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), I forward, herewith, the Student Loan (Access to Higher Education) (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill, 2024 for the kind consideration of the Senate.

“The Student Loan (Access to Higher Education) (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill, 2024 seeks to enhance the implementation of the Higher Education Student Loan Scheme by addressing challenges related to the management structure of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELF), applicant eligibility requirements, loan

purpose, funding sources, and disbursement and repayment procedures.”

Following this request, the Senate read the bill for the first time and subsequently passed it for a second reading.

The Leader of the Senate, Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central) who presented the bill on the floor of the Red Chamber noted that the bill will ensure to provide loans to qualified Nigerians to pay tuition, fees, charges and upkeep during their course of study in approved tertiary education institutions and vocational and skills acquisition institutions in Nigeria.

“The bill will build, operate and maintain a diversified pool of funds to provide loans to qualified applicants and ensure access to higher education, vocational training, and skills acquisition.

“It will ensure the recovery of all debts due to the fund from loans granted to qualified applicants, except where the Board is of the opinion that a ‘loanee’ should be exempted

from repaying his loan by reason of death, considerations of hardship or equity and impossibility or undue difficulty, or the expenses to be incurred in the recovery of the loan being far more than the amount sought to be recovered,” he said.

Supporting the passage of the bill, Senator Victor Umeh (LP, Anambra Central) voiced his concern over the challenges that most senators face in trying to create funds for their constituents to gain access to a proper education.

“Most of us who are in this Chamber, will agree that most of the pressures errors receive from our constituents is centred on the need to get proper education but lack the funding.

“So most times we are overburdened by creating funds to support these young children. I know the pressure I see from young people.

“This is a very noble thing to do in Nigeria, it is done everywhere across the world, America and the UK. Students get access to loans to fund their education and when they

President names Temitope Ilori NACA head

Deji Elumoye and Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has urged the Senate to confirm the nomination of Justice Adamu Galumje (retd) for appointment as Chairman of the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB))

Tinubu in his letter read at plenary yesterday by Senate President, Godswill Akpabio said the request was in compliance with section 154(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

The president said the nomination was informed by the vacancy created by expiration of tenure and subsequent retirement of the immediate past chairman of the CCB.

Akpabio after reading the letter referred the request to the Committee on Code of Conduct, Ethics and Privileges for further legislative action.

Also, Tinubu has approved the appointment of Dr. Alabo George as the Director-General

of the Border Communities Development Agency (BCDA).

George, who holds a PhD in Construction Management; an MSc in Quantity Surveying and Construction Engineering, and a B.Tech in Quantity Surveying is a fellow of the Certified Institute of Practising Professionals, USA; a fellow of the Association of Strategy Professionals, USA, and a member of other distinguished associations.

According to a release issued on Thursday by presidential spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, the president expects the new director general to discharge his duties with integrity, diligence, and dedication for the effective administration of the agency, and management of critical policies and programmes in line with the objectives of the administration.

In the same vein, the president has approved the appointment of Dr. Temitope Ilori as Director General of the National Agency

for the Control of AIDS (NACA) for an initial term of four years.

According to a release issued on yesterday by presidential spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, the president expects the new appointee to bring her wealth of experience and expertise into this seminal role.

This, he said, is to achieve the mandate of NACA which includes coordination, monitoring, and evaluation of the implementation of the Strategic National Plan for the control of HIV/AIDS/STDs, as well as the mobilisation of resources for an effective and sustainable response to HIV/ AIDS/STDs.

Ilori, who is a senior lecturer in the Department of Community Medicine at the University of Ibadan, and a consultant family physician at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, was Commissioner for Health in Osun State from 2011 to 2014 and Chairperson of the Osun

graduate, they start paying back,” he stressed.

On his part, Senator Sani Musa (APC, Niger East) suggested that a percentage from bank charges be deployed to the student loan fund to ensure sustainability.

Senator Anthony Ani (APC, Ebonyi South) emphasised that a major challenge facing the Nigerians over the years has been lack of education.

He said:“One of the problems Nigerians have been having over the years is lack of funds and that is why you see some persons, children and adults out of school, simply because, no funds.”

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio however, emphasised that Tinubu’s request was to repeal and re-enact the bill in line with the vision, strengthen implementation and ensure sustainability in the programme.

“A lot of children have been lured into criminality, banditry and other vices, maybe as a result of poverty or circumstances,” he said,

State Agency on Control of HIV/ AIDS (O-SACA).

Tinubu also approved the relocation of NACA to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare. It was previously domiciled in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

The relocation of NACA to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare is to foster synergy and enhance collaboration in pursuit of the nation’s goal to achieve the 95-95-95 pathway for ending the AIDS epidemic.

“In line with his topmost priority of manifesting the Renewed Hope Agenda of his administration across sectors, the president has expressed determination to consistently harmonise institutions within and between the different sectors in the country, ensuring improved coordination and synergy among agencies for efficient and qualitative service delivery to all Nigerians,” he said.

R-L: GCEO NNPC Ltd, Mr. Mele Kyari; EVP Downstream, Mr. Dapo Segun and Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, during an interactive session organised by the Senate Ad-hoc Committee on Investigation of Turn Around Maintenance (TAM) in the nation’s refineries, held at the National Assembly .... yesterday

16 THISDAY • FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2024

FAN MILK PARTNERS OBASANJO FARMS...

L-R: Global Chief Operations Officer Danone, Mr. Vikram Agarwal; former President and Chairman of Obasanjo Farms Limited, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo; Managing Director of Fan Milk PLC, Mr. Kayode Adebiyi; and Director, Legal and Public Affairs, and General Secretary Fan Milk PLC, Olakunle Olusanya, at the signing ceremony between Fan Milk- Danone and Obasanjo Farms....recently.

Shettima: We'll Continue to Work With Intellectuals, Experts for Nation's Growth

Deji Elumoye in Abuja Vice-President Kashim Shettima, has said the administration of President Bola Tinubu would continue to harness the experience of

Court Vacates Order Barring MTN, ATC from Constructing Base Stations

Wale Igbintade

Justice Yellim Bogoro of the Federal High Court in Lagos has vacated an interim order barring MTN Nigeria Communications Plc and ATC Nigeria Wireless Infrastructure Limited from constructing new Base Transceiver Stations across Nigeria.

Justice Bogoro’s order was made in suit number FHC/L/CS/2359/2023, filed by the Incorporated Trustees of HEDA Resource Centre, against the Minister of Environment and Ecological Management, National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency, the Federal Ministry of Environment and Ecological Management, ATC Nigeria Wireless Infrastructure Limited and MTN Nigeria Communications Plc.

HEDA Resource Centre had filed the suit, claiming that MTN and ATC had an agreement to build 2,500 Base Transceiver Stations for MTN’s operations.

It claimed that the said Base Transceiver Stations were in close proximity to other Base Transceiver Stations belonging to IHS Towers Limited.

On November 21, 2023, HEDA Resource Centre proceeded to obtain an interim order from the Federal High Court in Lagos, against ATC and MTN, on the grounds that it was crucial for the court to stop MTN and ATC from constructing any Base Transceiver Stations across Nigeria.

Through its lawyers, Kenna Partners, led by Professor Fabian Ajogwu SAN, MTN

filed court papers to set aside the interim order of the Federal High Court, arguing that the said order ought not to have been granted as there was no real urgency disclosed by HEDA Resource Center.

MTN also argued that it had not committed any imminent legal wrong.

MTN further argued that HEDA Resource Centre, in obtaining the interim order, concealed key facts which would have aided the Court in coming to a different decision on the issue.

Likewise, ATC through its Counsel, Nicholas Okafor argued that the interim order obtained against ATC had no basis and was made in the absence of jurisdiction.

In her ruling, Justice Bogoro upheld MTN and ATC’s position that the interim order made in favour of HEDA Resource Centre ought not to have been granted, given that there was no genuine urgency disclosed by HEDA Resource Centre, warranting the grant of the interim order in the first place.

The Court also agreed with MTN that the HEDA Resource Center concealed the important fact that none of MTN’s Base Transceiver Stations were in violation of Nigeria Communication Commission’s Regulations on spacing that should exist between towers.

The case has been adjourned to April 22, 2024.

Many industry experts view this decision of the Federal High Court to be important for MTN’s network expansion objectives.

Bruit Costaud, a government affairs outfit, strategic policy communications and advisory firm, at the State House, Abuja. Shettima who applauded the foresight of the managing partner of the firm and former Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, noted that the assemblage of renowned experts across diverse fields at the firm was commendable.

“The calibre of people covering a wide spectrum of areas, including security, energy, international diplomacy, communications and others, is a testimony of the seriousness of the group. “I am also glad to know that our intellectuals and policy experts are still relevant in the scheme of things, contributing to the progress of our country.

for the opportunity to share insights on the firm’s activities and its proposal for the present administration. He applauded the efforts of President Tinubu in addressing contemporary challenges, pledging the firm’s commitment to supporting the administration in succeeding in its task of transforming Nigeria.

Sanwo-Olu Elevates Akosile to Special Adviser Media, Publicity

Special Adviser, Media and Publicity (Non-cabinet Rank) to Mr. Governor. The appointment takes effect from 13th March 2024 to 21st May 2027.

The appointment, which took immediate effect, was announced on Wednesday in a letter dated March 13, 2024, and signed by the Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro.

“I wish to convey the approval of Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Governor of Lagos State, of your new appointment as

“In appointing you, the state government expects you to demonstrate a high level of dedication, diligence, and selflessness in the discharge of your duties to justify the confidence and trust reposed in you,” the statement reads in part.

Before his new appointment, Akosile was the CPS to Governor

Sanwo-Olu. He had earlier served as Media Adviser to the Governor during the 2019 governorship campaign and in the same capacity after the swearing-in of Sanwo-Olu for a second term. He also served as Deputy Chief Press Secretary and later Chief Press Secretary to SanwoOlu during his first term in office.

Akosile holds a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees in Theatre Arts from both the University of Ilorin and University of Lagos respectively.

He also bagged a Masters of Business Administration degree, MBA at the Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU between 2008 and 2010.

He has over two decades of robust career and hands on experience in journalism, media and perception management. In his new role, Akosile is expected to continue his media and perception management of the governor and his administration, in line with the government’s THEMES+ development agenda.

Wale Igbintade

A Federal High Court in Abuja has restrained the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from arresting Mr. Leno Adesanya, promoter of the Mambilla Hydro Power project.

Justice Inyang Ekwo made the order in suit number FHC/ ABJ/CS/267/2024 filed by Adesanya and Sunrise Power and Transmission Company against the EFCC, the Federal Ministry of Power and Steel, the Federal Government of Nigeria, and the Attorney General of the Federation.

The order was sequence to a motion ex-parte dated February 29, 2024 and filed on March 1, 2024 by counsel for the plaintiffs,

M. S. Diri (SAN). The court also ordered EFCC to drop down and advice all newspaper organisations to remove any publications and photographs on the EFCC site or otherwise declaring the Chairman Sunrise Power wanted.

Lawyers to Sunrise Power have also written all newspapers and online media giving them 48 hours to comply with this court order or face a defamatory lawsuit.

The ruling is based on the fact that federal government which voluntarily engaged in an arbitration with Sunrise in Paris at the ICC, cannot use the instrument of government to harass, intimidate or influence the process by investigating a

party to the suit. Adesanya was declared wanted for giving monetary favour to former Minister of Power, Dr. Olu Agunloye 15 years after he has left office.

The allegation was that the chairman Sunrise Power had induced government officials.

The order of court read: "Upon reading the affidavit in support of the application deposed to by one Bashir Yahaya Abdullahi, adult, Mmale, Muslim of No.2, Oluwa Road, Ikoyi Lagas State and filed in the Registry of this court.

"And after hearing M. S. Diri, SAN, (with Messrs. Abdullahi Ghazali and M. B. Umar) of counsel for the plaintiffs move in terms of the motion paper.

“An order is hereby made directing the 1st respondent, either by itself, officers, agents, servants, privies or otherwise howsoever described to maintain the status quo and/or stay further action with respect to the arrest or restriction of the personal liberty or right of movement or residence of the 1st applicant in Nigeria and further publication of the name and photograph or any other form of information concerning or pertaining to the Applicants, pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.

"Hearing notice to be issued to defendants forthwith. Case adjourned to 21st March, 2024 for hearing".

The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has elevated his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Mr. Gboyega Akosile, to Special Adviser, Media and Publicity.

COURTESY VISIT TO THE MINISTER…

President to Govs: Let's Put Aside Political Differences, It’s Time for Real Governance

Expresses optimism about Nigeria's future

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, called on the 36 governors to set aside political differences and collaborate with the federal government to build the nation.

Speaking during the breaking of Ramadan fast with governors at the State House, Abuja, the president emphasised the importance of transitioning from politics to governance, noting the need for unity and cooperation among all stakeholders.

According to him, ''Since we recognise the need to build our nation together, the time for politics is over. It is now time for governance.

''We are of the same family and parents; living in the same house, but sleeping in different rooms. We must cooperate and spread love among each other."

Highlighting the significance of the holy month of Ramadan for Muslims and the Lenten season for Christians, Tinubu urged Nigerians to use this solemn occasion for reflection, prayers, and charity towards others.

Acknowledging the difficulties facing the nation, the president expressed optimism about the future, noting that the challenges were beginning to respond to the solutions being implemented by his administration.

He said: ''I am glad that the

Oloibiri Oil Well: Court Rules in Favour of Otuabagi Community

Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa

An Ogbia High Court sitting in Yenagoa has ruled that Otuabagi community is the host to the first oil well, where the resource was discovered in commercial quantities in Nigeria.

Presiding Judge, Justice Simon Amaduobogha, who entered the terms of settlement reached by parties following mediation by the Ijaw National Congress (INC) as consent Judgement also ruled that Oloibiri Museum and Research Centre be sited in Otuabagi - the birthplace where crude oil was first discovered in 1956.

The suit was marked OHC/10/2021 and instituted by Oloibiri Community against the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bayelsa State Government, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), Otuabagi, Otuogidi and Opume communities.

The court further ordered the Oloibiri community to desist from demanding a relocation of the Museum and Research Centre Project or any part thereof since the earmarked project can only be sited where

artefacts such as the first oil well are located.

The development has laid to rest an age-long contradiction over the rightful owner of the land where oil was first discovered in commercial quantity and quality in Otuabagi Community in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State of Nigeria in 1956.

The famed Oloibiri Oil field was made up of 21-Oil wells discovered and named sequentially, starting with the first discovery on the 15 of January 1956 in Otuabagi, in the then Oloibiri District, Brass Division, in pre-independence Nigeria.

In 2021, the federal government approved the siting of the Museum and Research Centre project in Otuabagi, Otuogidi and Opume, at a cost of N117 billion, and is being developed by the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), NCDMB and SPDC.

The project was to commence immediately since last year, but was stalled by litigations from the various communities around Ogbia Local Government Area, over who should be the original host community of the multi-billion research centre.

headwinds are almost over. The tunnel is not as dark as when we started. It is going to be brighter and brighter. We must communicate with each other, stick together, and share joy."

Earlier, in his speech, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, commended the federal government for

distributing 42,000 tons of grains. He emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts between the national and sub-national governments in addressing collective challenges.

On the payment of wage award to workers, the governor promised that the states would do the right thing.

''Wet season farming is almost here, and I want to implore all governors to engage

in the farming business, so that we can all appreciate the challenges of ordinary farmers and ensure that we have a bumper harvest at the end of the farming season,'' AbdulRazaq said. Governors, who broke fast with President Tinubu includedAbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (Kwara), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Caleb Mutfwang

(Plateau),Ahmed Ododo (Kogi), Nasir Idris (Kebbi), Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Babagana Zulum (Borno), and Douye Diri (Bayelsa).

Others were Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Abdullahi Sule (Nasarawa), Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi), Inuwa Yahaya (Gombe), Alex Otti (Abia), Godwin Obaseki (Edo), Uba Sani (Kaduna), and Agbu Kefas (Taraba), among others.

Ogun, Germany to Partner on Food Production

James Sowole in Abeokuta

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, yesterday called for the exploration of available partnership options between Germany and the state in the area of food production as a way of contributing to the food security agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

Abiodun stated this when he received the Consul General, German Embassy, Weert Borner in his Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta office.

Abiodun noted that his administration was on the lookout for partners in the area of mechanised farming, adding that the state government would be supporting small farmers across eight extension services.

The governor also said that tractors and other forms of mechanised farming equipment that will help his administration in achieving its plan will also be provided for farmers in the state.

He said: "I will like to explore with you and have partnership that we can find with the German

government in supporting us in our new resolve to up the ante in food production.

"Our new policy now is to partner anyone who wants to come and farm in Ogun State by providing the land, by ensuring that the lands are accessible, by also clearing the land.

"To that extent, we are looking for partners in the area of mechanised farming and providing tractors and other forms of mechanised farming techniques that will help us in achieving our plan.

"In the last few days, we've been deliberating on how to ensure that we contribute our quota to the food security agenda of President Tinubu.

"We believe that we can easily be the bread basket of this nation and we are devising new strategies to achieve the objective in the shortest time.

"We have an ambitious plan of ensuring that in the next 12 months, this becomes easily visible across the state. We welcome partners that will

assist us in that part."

Abiodun, while commending the German government over the capacity building programme of GIZ in the state, confirmed the position of the state as the number one in non-oil revenue in the country as a result of the abundance of mineral resources, particularly limestone.

He also noted that his administration has removed all forms of bottlenecks that had hitherto impeded the ability of investors to set up in the state.

"In the areas of what you've done with us in the past in terms of capacity building or the education sector, ease of doing business, what we have done as a state is to ensure that we create access for ourselves.

“We increase our efficiency to remove unnecessary bottlenecks that hitherto had impeded the ability of people to come and set up here.

"We set up the public /private office. We set up the Ogun State Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency. We also

Rivers Govt Not Planning LGA Polls

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Special Adviser to the Rivers State Governor, Mr Siminalayi Fubara, on political affairs, Dr Darlington Oji, has dismissed claims by the state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), that the governor was planning a forceful election

for the local government councils.

APC caretaker chairman in the state, Mr Tony Okocha, had during a recent press conference in Port Harcourt, alleged that Fubara's government was planning to dissolve and conduct elections in the 23 LGAs, before the end of their tenure.

set up a one-stop shop that we call the Ogun State Business Environment Council so that all those who need to work together to make this kind of thing happen are well notified and are easily reachable so that we can remove whatever is a stumbling block," he added.

Earlier in his remarks, the Consul General noted that the German government is looking at increasing its ties with the state in the agricultural sector and energy transition.

"The two major areas we want to focus in increasing cooperation between Ogun State and Germany is the agricultural sector; meaning better production, better methods of agriculture, plus making agriculture more sustainable and environment friendly and of cause supporting Ogun state in food security for all of Nigeria.

"The second area is the energy transition to improve the build up of renewable energy and the grid development in Nigeria," he said.

in Hurry, Says Fubara Aide

But Oji said "The tenure of the local government councils are still running, people were worried that the governor was going to dissolve the local government. Up until date the governor has never made any attempt pointing towards dissolving the LGA chairmen.

"I believe that Rivers people

should be patient, at the appropriate time the right thing and according to the constitution would be made."

Oji also said the local government workers have received their salaries up till date, saying that the claims was targeted at destroying the good reputation of the Fubara's led government.

L-R: Area Director for West Africa, Emerson Automation Solutions, Chukwuma Ossaiga;Vice President, Middle East & Africa, Emerson, M.S Prakash; Minister of State Petroleum Resources (Gas), Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo; President, Middle East & Africa, Emerson Automation Solutions, Mathias Schinzel, and Managing Director/CEO, Engineering Automation Technology Limited, Dr. Emmanuel Okon, during a courtesy visit by Emerson and its Nigerian partner to the minister in Abuja…yesterday

POLITICS

Email:

Peller’s Defection to PDP as Game Changer in Oyo Politics

Kemi Olaitan writes that the defection of former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Shina Peller, from Accord party to Peoples Democratic Party may turn out to be a game changer in the Pace Setter state.

Between the last general elections held early in 2023, series of political activities and events have continued to happen in virtually all the states of the country including Oyo, the pace setter state.

The politicians who are always optimists virtually everyday intensified efforts to position themselves for the 2027 polls which is more than three years away.

While those elected in the elections from the pace setter state are doing everything possible to entrench themselves in the hearts of the people through delivery of democracy dividends, however the defection last Thursday from Accord party to the ruling the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), of Hon Shina Peller, a former member of the House of Representatives who represented Iseyin/Itesiwaju/Iwajowa/ Kajola Federal Constituency, between 2019 and 2023, alongside other party leaders and supporters from the 13 local government areas of Oyo North senatorial district, to political watchers could not but have implications.

The former lawmaker who was elected under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) but defected to Accord before the last election and clinched the Oyo North senatorial district ticket, while addressing the mammoth crowd that thronged the Ojude Oba, Iseyin, venue of the ceremony, attributed his defection and that of his followers to the PDP to the developmental strides and the visionary leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, pledging their unalloyed support for the continuity of dividends of democracy in Oke Ogun and the state in general through the governor who he lauded for his laudable project and linking all the zones together through road infrastructure.

His words, “My decision to join PDP is hinged on the good performance of Governor Makinde’s administration. As you know, politics is always about interests; either by people’s interest, religious interest or personal interest. But I have not taken this decision because of personal interest, to me, the most important thing to protect in politics is the interest of the people, who are the majority.

“Today, I can say that I am speaking for the people of Oke-Ogun/Ogbomoso South/ Ogbomoso North and Oriire, which make up the Oyo North Senatorial District. We have seen the reasons to align with the vision of an amiable leader, Governor Makinde.

“Our land is blessed with so many resources both human resources and natural mineral resources, but these resources failed to bring positive results over the years because of bad leadership until Governor Makinde came on board.

“As I always say, there is no leadership when there is no vision, Governor Makinde is a visionary. The Omituntun 2.0 is a clear vision that is for the people to prosper. He is someone that pays so much attention to the interest of the masses and it is for this reason that we have decided to join hands with the governor and the members of the great party, PDP.

“Truly a lot of people know that I am a progressive and I have told them that I have come to PDP for power, because I need power to progress, so my people as we join PDP today, I pray to God Almighty for our presence to bring greatness, prosperity for the people of Oyo state in general.”

Taking a swipe at his erstwhile political party, APC, the Iseyin-born politician cum businessman, said the APC rejected him for being too small but he has found himself where he is valued.

He said, “When I wanted to contest the Senatorial election in the All Progressives Congress (APC), they said we are too small but I thank God, today we are in the right party, a big party. If you look at the Nigeria of today, we are so endowed, but leadership is our problem. Nigeria is endowed with both human and natural resources but these resources have failed to translate to reality. So, there is no leadership when there is no leader. Makinde is visionary leader, that’s why

I joined the party. “I have seen the reason to align with the vision of Governor Makinde. There is no leadership when there is no vision. And we have seen good work he has done in this zone,

Oke-Ogun. It has never happened in the history of Oyo North Senatorial district. From Moniya to Iseyin; Oyo to Iseyin; Ogbomoso to Iseyin and so on. It has never happened before. So, if you have a visionary leader like

him, you have to support him. That’s why we have decided to join Governor Makinde and PDP to move the state forward.

“Our fathers have been clamouring for tertiary institution for the past 70 years and Makinde gave us and the same with infrastructural facilities. So, I want to announce that thousands of Accord Party members in the 13 local government areas made up of Oyo North Senatorial district are here. They are here to join PDP. Ward Chairmen; Local Government Chairmen; women leader and also Senatorial district chairman are all here to defect to the ruling PDP because of the visionary leadership quality of Makinde. I want to appeal to other political parties to join us to move the state forward, and I pray that we will not regret it.

“Some people came and asked: Why do I want to join PDP? And I said, I need power to move forward, I need power to progress, that’s why I join PDP.”

Makinde who was represented by the state deputy governor, Mr Bayo Lawal, while welcoming Peller and his supporters into the PDP, said the party will continue to wax stronger as, according to him, there is enough room for everyone to operate.

“I want to greet our party leaders and elders who are here at this event. Being progressive without power is zero but we want power in Iseyinland, Oke-Ogun, Ogbomoso and Oyo State in general. This is why Shina Peller is joining the party that gives power to the people.

NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

Need for Clarity in Mineral Categorization

Folalumi Alaran writes about the need to categorise nation’s mineral deposits for proper revenue generation.

Representatives of the mining industry have shed light on the challenges faced by tin mining companies in Plateau State.

In a recent workshop organized by the Special Control Unit against Money Laundering (SCUML) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) with Plateau state Ministry of Mines and Steel Development in Abuja, the participants shared opinion about the necessity of SCUML registration for various types of mining activities.

MD/CEO of Sound Core Group and a Consultant with EFCC’s SCUML office, Tony Nwakalor, emphasized that tin, a major focus of mining activities in Plateau State, does not fall under the category of precious metals or gemstones.

He called for a more informed approach to the solid mineral sector, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to prevent illicit financial flows and protect the economy.

According to him, “As SCUML is putting a searchlight on designated non-financial business and professions and under that as far as solid minerals sector is concerned, dealers in precious metals and gem stones are those who fall under that category. Tin is not a precious metal, and it is not a gem stone.

“Nigeria can do better in the solid mineral sector, all hands must be on deck. There’s more collaborative action required by all stakeholders such that illicit financial flow and using the sector as a means to devalue our economy will stop our economy. So we need everyone to get more informed about the sector and its potential.”

On his part, Chief Operation Officer of Laurium Mining company, Bolarinwa Olalekan, said the discrepancy in categorization became apparent when his company was invited by EFCC to provide legal documents, including SCUML registration.

He addressed the misunderstanding, highlighting that certain mining activities, like tin mining, should not be subject to SCUML registration.

He urged SCUML to provide a detailed list of minerals falling under precious metals and stones, ensuring clarity for mining companies and facilitating effective enforcement.

Olalekan also called for greater collaboration among government agencies, including EFCC, the Ministry of Mines, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), to tackle challenges faced by legal mining list holders.

He emphasized the need for EFCC’s support in providing a legal mining list, enabling them to combat illegal mining effectively.

Olalekan said, “We are here for a workshop organised by SCUML and EFCC. We were being introduced by the Ministry of Mines to come for the workshop. The workshop is for dealers in precious metals and stone. We are into tin mining it does not fall under that category. But we’ve been in a scene whereby the EFCC invited our own company to come with our legal documents and they also requested for SCUML.

“So we went into the office to present all our documents excluding SCUML. They mandated us to have the SCUML document. But we let them know that tin mining companies and some other companies too that do not fall under the categories of those mining precious metals and stones do not need to register for SCUML.

“But as we are in this workshop, a lot of presentations took place, we were able to clear the air concerning the fact they categorised the mining that falls under the precious metals and stones. Our own type of mining of tin, they were able to clear it that we do not fall under the categories of miners that do not fall under the categories

of SCUML registration.

“If the SCUML units can list out the minerals that fall under precious metals and stones. If they can list it out in details and they can share it to different zones where they have their SCUML offices in EFCC, so that their staff will be aware of the minerals that fall under the categories of precious metals and stones.

“So that they will know the companies that will need to be invited for interroga- tion as far as SCUML is concerned. I think that will be better and will help the whole situation. Our company for instance in Plateau is facing some challenges where we are even seeking the assistance of the EFCC regarding the issue of illegal miners.

“I told them that we have a mining list where the scavengers have been going left and right to scavenge our resources, and we always call the attention of the sector that are concerned and can assist us. Like the Ministry of Mines and NSCDC, they used to come to our aid.

“So if the EFCC can support us too with the legal mining list so that our company can strive. It will be something that we would really love, we would be excited to see them supporting the legal mining list holders. Not that they will be referring to the legal mining list holders as illegal miners.

“If they can come to the site and see what we are facing, they will know the way they can actually assist us in fighting the illegal mining activities around us, not us going for interrogations that can be easily detected online.

“The mining cadastre office is online already that you can easily put any mining ID and verify if the mining list is valid or not rather than stressing us going front and back to interrogate the legal mining list holders or even charging them to court, whereas we have illegal mining activities all over the country. So we will be glad if they can come to our aid to assist us in that area.”

As the workshop ended, it became evident that a more nuanced approach is required in categorizing mining activities to ensure that regulations are appropriately applied, fostering a more conducive environment for legal mining operations in Nigeria.

www.thisdaylive.com

opinion@thisdaylive.com

OUR POLITICAL CULTURE: MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE

Nigeria is largely ‘imprisoned’ by its political culture, argues JOSHUA J. OMOJUWA

See page 21

FELA, ‘BASKETMOUTH’ AND GODSWILL AKPABIO TUNDE OLUSUNLE urges the Senate President to be circumspect in his statements

See page 21

EDITORIAL KIDNEY DISEASE AND THE RISK FACTORS

The 1,500-hectare tomatoes farm and processing factory the former governor facilitated a couple of years ago has begun to bear fruit, writes BOLAJI ADEBIYI

HARVEST TIME FOR BAGUDU’S TOMATOES

Abubakar Bagudu, who now heads the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, has a flair for agriculture not only because he thinks it’s a sure way to enhance the food security of the nation but also because it can economically empower the vast majority of the people. As a two-term governor of Kebbi State, he walked the talk, facilitating the cultivation of large expanses of land, which have yielded millions of tonnes of rice, one of Nigeria’s staple foods.

Believing in creating a society with income, Bagudu thought agriculture, which has the capacity to engage a lot of people was the surest way to achieve the state he envisioned. With the massive shortfall in supply for domestic consumption, Rice cultivation was bound to be an instant hit that beckoned. Under his watch, therefore, Kebbi would become the rice capital of the federation. Kicking off with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s Anchor Borrowers’ Programme, under its development finance function, an initial 70,000 farmers cultivated 70,000 hectares of land. At inception in 2016, 1.5 metric tonnes were harvested. This rose by 150 per cent to 3.5 metric tonnes in 2017. Thanks to the N12.8 billion loan that was accessed by Kebbi farmers.

Within three years, rice cultivation had become phenomenal as 400,000 hectares of the staple grain had been cultivated by 200,000 farmers across 15 of the 21 local government areas of the North-West state. People soon began to talk about the Kebbi Rice Revolution, which output had netted over 4 million tonnes annually by 2023. No wonder, over five high-impact mills, including Wacot, Olam, Umza, Labana and Dandi with combined installed capacity in the neighbourhood of 200,000 metric tonnes, sprang up in the state. The cumulative workforce among the millers is put around 5,000.

Bagudu’s agrarian Kebbi was not all about rice, though. By 2018, 47,000 hectares of cassava had been planted to serve as primary material for the ethanol industry. He also facilitated bee farming as well as fishing given the 300km a piece stretch of Rivers Niger and Rima through the state. “I look forward to seeing fish Kebbi State in Japanese restaurants,” he had said in 2016. The more ambitious push, however, was tomato cultivation.

In 2016, the former governor began talks with a Spanish multinational group,

GB Foods Africa, for the establishment of a tomato plantation and processing factory. The farm and the factory were projected to engage 1,000 workers and upon completion expected to help Nigeria reduce its's dependence on tomatoes paste import. After the signing of an MOU, the company commenced construction of its underground irrigation facility for the plantation and importation of machinery for the factory a year later. In 2020 the company announced the completion of its factory and began the harvesting of tomatoes as well as the production of concentrates.

But it was not until last Friday that the N20 billion largest single tomatoes farm as well as the second biggest processing factory in Nigeria was formally unveiled by President Bola Tinubu. Represented by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, it was an opportunity for the president to reassure Nigerians that no efforts would be spared to ensure food security in the country. Coming against the background of prevailing headwinds, the inauguration of the tomato processing factory was an affirmation of foreign investors’ confidence in the economy.

“This is the second time I’m coming to Kebbi State in a little over a month. First, I visited a rice mill, the largest in West Africa, and today I’m visiting the largest tomato factory in Africa, all in Kebbi State,” Kyari said, noting, “This is a sign that there is confidence in Nigeria, under the able leadership of President Tinubu, for foreign investors to come and invest.”

Kyari’s claim got massive endorsement from Vincent Egbe, the country manager

of GB Foods Africa, who said, “We are fully committed to long-term investment across the entire agricultural value chain in alignment with the federal government’s quest for employment and, most significantly, ensure food security across the country.”

More telling were the comments of Muhammed Idris, minster of Information and National Orientation, who was happy to note that in spite of the gloomy pictures being painted, good things were still happening in Nigeria, urging the media to pay more attention to the positive outcomes of the ongoing economic reforms of the federal government.

“For those who say that it’s only bad stories coming out of Nigeria, this is a very good story to tell. At a time when the media is saying all foreigners, all investors are leaving the country, GB Foods is investing more and more here,” he stated. Idris said the project demonstrated the potential of collaboration between the federal and state governments, adding that it also showed the positive effect of a harmonious relationship between a governor and their predecessor.

Bagudu must have felt fulfilled by the soothing statements from his colleagues, which showed that not only were his legacies enduring but also that they were showcasing the resilience of the Nigerian economy and the increasing foreign investors’ confidence in it.

Situated in Gafara, a sleepy town in Ngaski Local Government Area of Kebbi State, both the plantation and the processing factory stand on 1,500 hectares, half of which was used to cultivate tomatoes, while the other half has soyabeans. The factory produces 650 tonnes of concentrate daily, employing 2,000 workers, 75 per cent of whom are women. In addition, 5,000 outgrowers have been trained and given improved seedlings by the company. Currently, in its first phase of development, the culinary concern projects to double these figures on completion of the project that has given life to Bagudu’s vision of facilitating poverty reduction through empowerment programmes that secure sustainable income.

Adebiyi, is media assistant to the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu

Nigeria is largely ‘imprisoned’ by its political culture, argues

JOSHUA J. OMOJUWA

OUR POLITICAL CULTURE: MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE

It is easy to take the development of some countries for granted. Like they were always meant to be. Development is too multilayered to be considered accidental though. When you see a country advancing on any front, take a deeper look, you’d see a vision and more crucially, some motivation behind it. Take the Emirate of Dubai and its evolution from just being another Emirate in the United Arab Emirates into being the preeminent hub for tourism in the region.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum may be a royal, he is also a politician. Without his vision to place Dubai ahead of the curve of what could be — if the oil dried up or suddenly became surplus to requirements due to technology — Dubai wouldn’t have evolved into the city it is today. I read his book, “My Vision” about a

decade ago but I do remember reading through his motivations for a prosperous Dubai and more extensively, the Arab region. The Sheikh came to see that the global world of trade and politics was not any different from what happens in the jungle; if you don’t run fast enough, you will be eaten up. If you can’t run fast enough, you will not feed.

That simplification of global relations motivated him to build a city that’d become the pride of the Arab world. Whilst that vision largely continues to be in operation, it is so easy to see that not only has Sheikh Al Maktoum achieved his vision for Dubai, but he has also gone on to inspire similar motivations that have led the likes of Qatar to open up, going as far as hosting the World Cup in 2022. It is hard not to see that Dubai probably inspired Saudi Arabia’s push to become a tourism and entertainment hub for the world. Even Morocco here in Africa is borrowing a page from those motivations.

In the next decade, both countries would have hosted/be getting set to host the FIFA World Cup. Hosting the World Cup does not mean a country is an economic success, but if you take another look at it, it is an essential indicator. You cannot use red eyes and patriotism alone to host such a global tournament.

These states have one thing in common too, they are monarchies. So, it is easy for one to say, “well, Nigeria is a democracy, we are burdened and blessed by its challenges and opportunities”. However, these states were monarchies before the motivation to open to the world and to build cities conducive and beautiful enough to host the biggest sporting events.

In essence, in the absence of motivation, having the capability for change will not bring change. With motivation, you will go in search of every capacity and opportunity to make change happen.

This is generally the failing of Nigeria so far. Whether we admit it or not, we have consistently placed politics ahead of governance. This is a failing that moderates even the best of our politicians. In a sense, to refuse to be so moderated is to be endangered.

Our political culture has shaped the psychology of the average Nigerian politician. Out of government, they see clearly. They know the roots and sources of our challenges. They will solve all our major national issues over one or two mind-blowing interviews. They often mean well and you only need to look at all the things they say when invited to conferences often set up to dissect our challenges and to offer direction for the future. It is poetry at its best.

In power, someway and somehow, they also see things clearly too. They see that those outside power do not understand the challenges. That if they really talk, heads will roll. We have seen those who refused to organize local government elections until they were staring at the exit door as governors, yet they insist on being the doyen of democratic ideals outside power. Prose at its worst.

We have seen those who broke record numbers to sponsor pilgrimages, yet today want to be seen as the emblem of executive prudency. We know those who bought cars for every elite group perceived to be incidental to their re-election, yet today will be the first to knock such expenses. If you open the Pandora’s box, the plaques will go round.

In a sense, they aren’t irrational. Organizing local government elections when you can administer local governments from the state house could mean less ability to control the political structure of the state, especially when you aren’t a popular governor. Not sponsoring pilgrimages means losing out on the opportunity to reward a vast group of supporters, that also comes at a cost especially if you are deemed to be a mediocre governor. Those pilgrimages help to account for poor governance. The same applies to the constant obsession with buying SUVs — foreign brands or locally assembled — because not to do so is to lose the support of some elite groups who are deemed to be crucial in convincing the people as to how to vote. You govern in prose?

Hate him or love him — the average Nigerian politician is statistically a “he” — that politician reflects the political culture. The outliers hardly win elections. When they do, they are constantly battling acceptance or must govern in survival mode. They know that it is more viable to complete an ongoing project handed over by a previous administration. They also know that if they do so, the political culture denies them the political reward for such an action because such projects are wholly ascribed to the administration that started them. Motivation is an underrated force of nature. The Emirs of Dubai and Qatar are not motivated by the need to get re-elected. However, their motivations to build economies that work aren’t the preserve of monarchies. Such motivations, however strong, cannot exist outside the pressures of the prevailing political culture. In a sense, where we are is the price we continue to pay for our political culture.

Omojuwa is chief strategist, Alpha Reach/author, Digital Wealth Book

TUNDE OLUSUNLE urges the Senate President to be circumspect in his statements

FELA, ‘BASKETMOUTH’ AND GODSWILL AKPABIO

Fela Anikulapo-Kuti the innovative Afrobeat musician, irrepressible composer, untiring activist, consummate artist, multiinstrumentalist and public intellectual it was who popularised the expression "basket mouth." His career as a performer straddled four decades, most especially between 1958 and 1997 when he transited. Within the period he turned out dozens of hits and albums which earned him accolades at home and abroad. His demonstrated leftist radicalism engendered repeated confrontations with the state, especially during the heady days of military rule in Nigeria. He battled the *khakied* administrations of Olusegun Obasanjo, (his kinsman from Abeokuta by the way); Muhammadu Buhari and Ibrahim Babangida, among others. He was in turn harassed, battered and bludgeoned in several instances, becoming a familiar face in many police stations and detention facilities. It has been suggested that he was arrested at least 200 times during his career!

Fela released *Beasts Of No Nation,* (BONN) in 1989. It was a retroactive jibe on the administration of Buhari and his deputy, Tunde Idiagbon which framed him for foreign currency but liberated after two years. Upon his release in 1986 there was popular clamour for him to relive his experiences like he had customarily done after every dramatic entanglement with overzealous agents of state. His prefatory chant in the song is: "Basket mouth wan start to talk again o/Basket mouth wan start to leak again like a basket, will of necessity spill whatever liquid is stored in it. He, Fela, was therefore poised to narrate his experiences no-holdsbarred while in incarceration, starting with debunking the falsehoods, the state concoctions which sent him to the gulag. Indeed, the judge who sentenced Fela visited him following his hospitalisation while serving his prison term. The said judge Fela contended, apologised to him and confessed the judgment he read out was predetermined by the military authorities.

Bright Okpocha one of Nigeria's most famous stand-up comedians would subsequently appropriate Fela's creation as stage name. Okpocha was a pre-teen when Fela's BONN was released. It is more plausible therefore that he borrowed the "basketmouth" concept from a precursor, a name which has hoisted him to the topmost heights of the Nigerian and African comedy genre. The referent *Basketmouth* presupposes a tell-all, no restraints comedy brand which pulls no punches once he wields the microphone on the performance podium. *Basketmouth* has had a successful career thus far and inspired younger comics who themselves are holding their own.

Since he came to national limelight as governor of Akwa Ibom State in 2007, I

have taken keen interest in the career of Godswill Akpabio. His good works in the actualization of the masterplan for the transformation of the state as enunciated by his predecessor the venerable Victor Attah was remarkable. Deploying the services of some of the most reputable construction companies in the land, Akpabio set out on the task of massive infrastructural bridges, educational facilities, sporting infrastructure, aviation development and so on dominated Akpabio's exertions. He soon earned a sobriquet derived from the "uncommon transformation" of the state under his watch.

I had the opportunity of verifying the testimonials about Akpabio's yeomanry when I was his guest on two separate

fuel scarcity before being transported to Uyo in the night, the protocol regimen emplaced by Akpabio was non-pareil. My sounds of the redevelopment of Akwa Ibom State which Akpabio was anchoring at the time, in the course of our tours. I

of the "presidential guest house" built by the construction giant Julius Berger within the Government House complex in Uyo. He hosted us to lunch on both occasions and I came away with the conviction that Akpabio was a witty, down-to-earth, pragmatic leader with a good grasp of his state and the workings of government.

Akpabio's political career has been on the rise since he left Uyo in 2015. First he was elected senator representing Akwa Ibom North West and emerged the minority leader of the upper parliament despite privileged ranking legislators. He did not make it back to the senate in 2019 but

had previously exited the erstwhile ruling political party, the Peoples' Democratic Party, (PDP), on which platform he served as governor and senator, in 2018. He returned to the senate in 2023 and was concurrently voted president of the senate. In the Nigerian order of state protocol, Akpabio is the Number Three Citizen, only behind the president and his deputy. Video clips of the interminable convoys of automobiles which accompany him like similar very our sensibilities on the social media. Such land ravaged by mass hunger, poverty and insecurity is not the way to demonstrate governance. My more urgent concern Akpabio to logorrhoea. Oftentimes, he seems to lack environmental awareness, public sensitivity and verbal tact. In less of the Senate, Akpabio has committed expectations from his person and position.

Olusunle, PhD, FANA, poet, journalist, scholar and author is a Fellow of the Association of Nigerian Authors, (ANA)

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

EDITORIAL

KIDNEY DISEASE AND THE RISK FACTORS

Yesterday in many countries, the 2024 World Kidney Day was marked with the theme “Kidney Health for All–Advancing equitable access to Care and optimal medication practice.” Even when the disease now ravages the country, there were no awareness campaigns by health authorities, particularly on preventive measures that will help contain the scourge. Yet, according to the Nigerian Association of Nephrology, some 25 million lead to renal failure and death.

Kidney disease is emerging as a major health problem as the numbers of patients are rising. The World Health Organisation (WHO) projects that about two million people in Lagos State are kidney disease (CKD). genders and commonly complicates diabetes, and hypertension. Most patients present late, requiring life-saving interventions and procedures,” said a Nephrologist at the Federal Medical Centre, Birnin Kebbi, Moses Tari. Kidney disease, according to him, makes up a large part of daily hospital admissions and constitutes about 40 per cent of referrals to tertiary hospitals in Nigeria. A study conducted between 2008 and 2011 at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) said kidney-related diseases accounted for nine per cent paediatric admissions.

There is need to raise awareness about the scourge

of breath, swelling in feet and ankles, muscle cramps, nausea, and vomiting.

The leading causes of the disease are varied, ranging from high blood pressure, diabetes, sickle cell and kidney infection. According to experts, other predisposing factors include obesity, untreated microbial infections, HIV, tuberculosis, hepatitis, and malaria. Smoking, toxicity due to long- term use of herbal concoctions as well as long- term use of skin whitening creams, and abuse of analgesics had also been linked to the development of kidney disease.

The leading causes of the disease are varied, ranging from high blood pressure, diabetes, sickle cell and kidney infection

During the 2020 event, medical experts were emphatic about the need for preventive interventions to avert the onset and progression of kidney disease. This is instructive as managing renal failure is expensive. Very few people are enrolled on the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and even so, the coverage is grossly inadequate. Most individual patients can medical intervention by

A leading cause of death in Nigeria as elsewhere, the disease refers to a condition where the kidney waste from the blood is seriously hampered. It could go undetected in the early stages because of lack of obvious symptoms. But at a later stage, referred to as end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), or end-stage renal disease (ESRD), the signs become obvious as the form of frequent or infrequent urination, shortness

Letters to the Editor

reportedly need regular dialysis annually. With the procedure now costing more than N100,000 and two needed per week, it is safe to conclude that it is beyond the means of most Nigerians.

The cost of an alternative, a kidney transplant, is even more prohibitive as it runs into millions of naira. for the operation since few hospitals in the country have the capacity to conduct such delicate surgery. “The awareness aspect is critical because people must be made to come to terms with the fact that they are, said Lagos State First Lady and medical doctor Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu. Indeed, people need to embrace healthy lifestyle such as eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activities, and maintaining normal body weight, among others. Emphasis should be placed on reducing the risk factors.

Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-300 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (750- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive. com along with photograph, email address and phone numbers of the writer.

LETTERS

COLD TEARS FROM KURIGA

Ever since the Jihadist group, Boko Haram, seized more than 200 students in a girls' school in Chibok, Borno State a decade ago, it has become a regular tactic by criminal gangs to undermine and embarrass the State and its security apparatus any time a new government comes to power.

And so, when the dare-devilry act was announced, we all knew that the kidnap of over 200 students of government secondary school and the LEA Primary school Kuriga in Chukun local government area of Kaduna State was a familiar road to another round of a cold, heartlessly surrealey-spinning venture for the terrorists, to say the least.

This callous incident was quickly followed by a similar adoption of school children, numbering 15, by terrorists in the Gidan Bakuso area of Gada local government of Sokoto State. A week before, countless numbers of women in an IDP camp in Borno were whisked away by terrorists also.

The ridiculous ransom in trillions of Naira demanded by the terrorists of the kidnapped victims from Kuriga and the subsequent call on the Federal government of President Bola Tinubu to go the way of negotiations by the controversial Islamic cleric, Sheikh Gumi, leaves much to be desired.

Nigeria and her security architecture are gradually becoming a quizzical puzzle waiting to be unraveled and a huge laughing stock in the eyes of the international community.

The relative ease with which large numbers of kidnapped victims are criminal gangs shows the level of contempt and disdain our security systems are being perceived by these terrorists.

This is the time for us to come up with a make-or-mar blueprint to mitigate the present state of insecurity and violence in our land. This can only be done by a sheer fearless determination to get to the root cause of part of the government, to do the needful.

But for a government that has so much baggage and challenges, both local and international, this becomes a Herculean task. Yet the reality of untimely deaths and the growing number of internally displaced persons in our midst as a result of insecurity, cannot be wished away. whose only "crime" is to live and give birth to children in a hitherto peaceful geographical space called Kaduna State.

They're asking when their wards will be returned to them in their various homes just as peaceful, hale and hearty as they left for school a few days ago. And this should be the question on the lips of every concerned Nigerian today.

Austen Akhagbeme, Abuja

SHINE THAT LIGHT

A 13- year- old Canadian school boy, Brenden Sener, has turned the heat on with his science fair project, a miniature and fortunately underpowered version of the death ray Archimedes' wrote about. Archimedes was a great scientist but he didn't take the time to document how his invention was constructed and used, if it did actually exist, so it has

The same experiment was tried on Mythbusters but failed although President Obama asked them to retest it and that also failed. Why would a President want a death ray and now maybe a miniature death ray?

I am sure Brenden will make a great contribution to science but hopefully not in weapon design, we're already pretty good at that. The future is unlimited and maybe he will be the one to cure cancer.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia

BUSINESS WORLD

RATES AS AT MACH 14,2024

Chinedu Eze

Experts in the nation’s aviation sector have explained why, in their opinion, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) may not lift travel restrictions against Nigeria and restore relations between the two countries in the foreseeable future.

The experts told THISDAY that the decision to maintain diplomatic impasse against Nigeria is deliberate because Nigeria do not fit into the next positioning of the country, which is to allow foreigners who would not jolt existing peace and crime free society, which they have taken time to build.

Also, it was learnt that the UAE

has changed the choice of its focus in tune with its new diplomatic goals, which is to bring new spenders from the globe that are disposed to peace and discipline in line with the set goals of the country.

It would be recalled that Nigerians were caught on video at one time exhibiting violence with machetes in Dubai and they were also caught trying to steal ATM machines and even engaged in shop lifting.

Also, during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020 and thereafter, UAE authorities had engaged the Nigerian government to repatriate Nigerians in the Middle East country who had committed crimes and were in the country’s prisons, but when

they did not get positive feedback, they decided to repatriate those Nigerians back to the country at their own expense.

Commenting on the development, the General Managing Director, Flinchglow Holdings Limited and former President of National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA), Mr. Bankole Bernard, recalled these incidents to THISDAY.

He said it was not because of the trapped Emirates Airlines fund that UAE chose to maintain the current diplomatic status with Nigeria, but because the conduct of many Nigerians who travelled to the country was not in tune with

peaceful and crime free standards it wants to maintain, recalling that Venezuela owes Emirates and there is no diplomatic impasse between the two countries.

“In the life of a country, there are always changes. A country may design a purpose in its foreign relations and adopt ways to implement it and achieve its desired objectives. Earlier everything in Dubai was cheap. They wanted to show the world what they have because the country wanted to showcase itself as a leading tourism destination. They do not want crime. They do not want violence; but Nigerians abused these two things. We have taken crime and violence there. You

must have watched a video, which showed Nigerians in a cult clash, brandishing machetes. You must have seen them attacking a store.

“In as much as UAE wants more people to come to her country, it must scrutinize the people they allow into their country. This is the new diplomatic message. What Nigerians exhibited then was gross indiscipline. UAE will continue to keep its current stance until we show some levels of commitment,” he said. Bernard also remarked that Nigerians have made themselves pariahs that even a country like South Africa is placing some restrictions to Nigerians coming

to their country because we have embraced indiscipline as a way of life. Bernard further said: “At some points, UAE had a lot of Nigerians in their prisons. Our government did not come to take them. They spent money to repatriate them back to Nigeria. Currently Qatar is allowing Nigerians into the country. They come there and organise parties. After some time, they will close the country to us. They noticed that UAE used that style to make money and they have adopted it but at certain time they will stop us.

Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto

The Sokoto state government has announced that it has paid the sum of N1billion as counterpart funding for Agro- Chemical Resilience in Semi -Arid Landscapes (ACRESAL) Projects to Curb Desert Encroachment.

The governor of the state, Dr Ahmed Aliyu made this known at the Stakeholders forum organised by Sokoto state ministry of Environment,

Agriculture, and Water resources in collaboration with World Bank in Sokoto.

According to Aliyu the state government’s investment in environmental, water management, had brought about the desired change in the state.

“Our past collaborations have impacted positively on target beneficiaries, and it is our hope that going forward, we can deepen access to portable water for drinking

and irrigation has boost agricultural production especially in the rural areas,” he added.

He stated that the aim of the project is to combat environmental Degradation, and provide food security and provide job opportunities for the teeming youth in the state.

The governor noted that as part of the government commitment over 800 men and women including youths have been mobilized, and trained on Grievance Redress

Mechanism, Business Management for the Community Interest Group (CIGs).

He further explained that over 3,000 people have been mobilized and sensitized about the project stressing that there is on-going establishment of 40km Shelter-belt in Wurno LGA, that serves to build defenses against wind there-by forming breaks for farmlands and homesteads in nine communities of Wurno, thus crop destruction by winds

“We also established a 500Ha Forest Enrichment Plantation also in Wurno LGA, designed to improve the ion that threatens the fertile Fadama land in Wurno and surrounding areas continue unhindered.

He maintained that the state has also established 7000Ha Agro Forestry with Moringa Oleifara (Zogale) trees, this activity is aimed at improving the food security of beneficiary communities, covering 23 beneficiaries,

He said the project will restore for the state 19,000,000 M3 (Nineteen Million Cubic meters) of water in Lugu Dam and will rehabilitate 1,300Ha (One Thousand Three Hundred Hectares)

Aliyu called on the World Bank to consider easing the procurement processes saying this will encouraged them to partner with more agencies for development of the state.

Travellers Won Smart Phones in United Nigeria/Samsung Promo

Stories by Chinedu Eze

No fewer than 12 brand new smart phones have been won by travellers in the United Nigeria Airlines/ Samsung trade promotion, which lasted over three days.

The promo tagged ‘fly and win’ was part of activities that marked the third anniversary of United Nigeria Airlines, and the smartphones won were the newly launched Samsung A05, S23 and S24 brands.

Winners emerged in a lucky dip conducted onboard United Nigeria Airlines flights on the Lagos-Abuja-Lagos and Lagos-Port Harcourt-Abuja routes.

The 12 winners are Olomu MacMakanju, Bola Adewale, Mirabel Mbadugha, Ruth Deinde-Dipeolu, Besulaki Audu,

Emmanuel Ugwuanyi, Very Rev. John E. Salefil, Ejefobiri Favour, Mrs Aligizo Hannatu, Master Stephen Nkayi, Tolu Oshanisi Stephen, and Oladapo Bukola.

The trio of MacMakanju, Adewale, and Mbadugha won brand new smart phones on the first day of the promo, while Deinde-Dipeolu, Ugwuanyi, Audu, Rev. Salefil and Ejefobiri won theirs on the second day. Mrs Aligizo, Master Nkayi, Stephen, and Bukola were lucky winners on the third day of the event.

Commenting on the promo, Digital Marketing Manager at United Nigeria Airlines, Mrs. Ebele Mokaogwu, said: “The partnership between United Nigeria Airlines and Samsung Nigeria stems from our shared commitment to innovation, excellence, and customer satisfaction.

By joining forces, our aim was to leverage each other’s strengths to provide unparalleled value and reward our passengers for their loyalty, especially as we were celebrating our third year in the aviation industry.”

Head of Marketing and Public Relation, Samsung Electronics West Africa, Chika Nnadozie, said: “At Samsung, we are continually looking for ways to connect with consumers with a view to bringing the brand closer to them. This is the basis for this partnership. Not only was Samsung able to collaborate with a leading Nigerian Airline whose values of innovation, creativity, and integrity aligned with ours, but this partnership enabled us to engage with and delight new and old customers with the giveaway.”

NSE Elects NAMA Official as Vice President

The Nigerian Society Of Engineers (NSE), has elected the Deputy General Manager, the Nigerian Airspace Management Aegncy (NAMA), Dr Felicia Nnenna Agubata, as Vice President, representing the South-east zone. She studied at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology and holds a B. Eng. in Computer Science and Engineering (1997) and a Master’s degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, as well as a doctorate degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering (Communication Engineering option).

On completion of her National Youth Service Corps assignment

at Innovative Systems Limited in 1999, she started work as a Sales Engineer at Compluleb Nigeria Limited in 2001.

Agubata’s career in the Aviation sector commenced in 2002 upon joining the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, NAMA (an Air Navigation Service Provider, (ANSP) responsible for managing the Nigerian Airspace through the Provision, Installation and Maintenance of Navigational Aids, Communication Equipment and Surveillance Systems), as an Electrical Engineer II.

Agubata’s skills and work ethics have earned her three letters of commendation from

two different Managing Directors of the agency.

She was a recipient of two Aviation Scholarships in 2007 (Women in Aviation Scholarship by Pratt and Whitney) and 2010 IAWA/ICAO (International Aviation Women Association/ International Civil Aviation Organization) Scholarship being the only African among the ICAO five in 2010. She was privileged to work as an intern, at Air Navigation Bureau (ANB), ICAO Headquarters in Montreal Canada in 2010. Agubata is a 2019 Royal Academy of Engineering GCFR African catalyst phase 3 Grant Awardee.

SAHCOL Appoints Olugbenga as Executive Director

The Board of the Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) Plc, has confirmed the appointment of Adegbesan Olugbenga as Executive Director of Finance and Administration.

The company said in a statement that Olugbenga is a highly accomplished seasoned professional in the realms of Accounting and Finance, boasting a wealth of qualifications and a career spanning over thirty years. The foundation for his career commenced with a BSc (Hons) in Accounting from the University of Ilorin in 1989, followed by an MBA in Finance from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology in 2008.

Additionally, his fellowship statuses in prestigious professional bodies such as the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (FCA) and the Chartered Institute of Group Business Editor

Eromosele Abiodun

Deputy Business Editor

Chinedu Eze

Comms/e-Business Editor

Emma Okonji

Asst. Editor, Money Market

Nume Ekeghe

Senior Correspondent

Raheem Akingbolu (Advertising)

Correspondents

Emmanuel Addeh (Energy)

KayodeTokede(CapitalMarkets)

James Emejo (Finance)

Ebere Nwoji (Insurance)

Reporters

Peter Uzoho (Energy)

Ugo Aliogo (Development)

Taxation of Nigeria (FCIT), Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Public Diplomacy and Management (CIPDM) alongside certifications as a Chartered Certified Forensic Investigator (CCPI) and Chartered Certified Forensic Accountant (CCrFA), attest to his commitment to continuous learning and development.

Throughout his career, Adegbesan has held pivotal roles, notably at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) in the Directorate of Finance and Accounts where he served as General Manager of Credit Control and General Manager of Budget. In addition, he handled a lot of assignments in resolving Inter-Agency issues and Revenue improvement and

cost effectiveness.

By the appointment, Adegbesan is to oversee both the Finance Department and Admin Department of Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) Plc.

Similarly, Donald Adekunle has been appointed as the General Manager, Cargo Services, having served with Emirates Airlines for 17 years as Cargo Manager, Nigeria.

He is a graduate of the University of Agriculture, Markurdi with a degree in Food Technology and Masters degree in Business Administration and Human Resources from the University of Ado Ekiti.

Adekunle has an outstanding career spanning more than 26 years in the air freight and logistics space.

UK Partners ATCON to Host Conference on Last Mile Connectivity

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) of the United Kingdom government and Initiative for Digital Inclusion (IDI), in collaboration with the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), is set to host a Technical Conference on Sustainability of Last Mile Connectivity Providers in Underserved and Unserved areas in Nigeria.

At the conference, which is scheduled to hold in Abuja, the findings and recommendations from a technical study on Capacity Building and Testing Business Models for Sustainable Last Mile Connectivity in Underserved and Unserved Areas in Nigeria, will be presented to stakeholders.

The stakeholders include high-level decision makers in key government parastatals like

AIR WATCH

Addressing MRO, Aircraft Leasing in Aviation Sector

Chinedu Eze

Two major challenges have drastically affected airline operations in Nigeria. One is lack of large state-of-the-art aircraft Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility and the other is the inability of Nigerian airlines to engage in dry leasing of aircraft.

Over the years, the federal government has campaigned and made promises about how it would establish MRO facility in Nigeria.

It said it would engage in Public, Private Partnership (PPP) to facilitate the establishment of the project, which is very crucial for successful airline operation.

Currently Nigerian airlines ferry their aircraft overseas at huge cost to maintenance facilities overseas. They pay so much money and this delays aircraft because the facility may be fully booked at the time the aircraft is ferried to the place so it would have to wait for its turn. Everyday an aircraft is on ground the airline loses revenues.

Another major challenge of Nigerian airlines is their inability to lease aircraft for a long term under dry leasing arrangement.

Lessors have ‘unwritten law” against Nigeria; that due to the failure to abide by leasing agreement by some defunct airlines, lessors would no more allow long term, dry lease to Nigerian operators.

The two challenges have prompted the former Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, HadiSirika, to make a promise on how to solve the challenges in the almost eight years he served as Minister. He did not solve any before he left office.

However, last week the current Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo travelled to France on a bilateral working visit and the two protracted problems were part of the issues he planned to solve during his visit.

Before the trip, Keyamo had made good advancement in getting lessors to review their relationship with Nigerian carriers and to allow them have dry leases.

the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani; the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida and the Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi.

The Director, Initiative for Digital Inclusion (IDI), Mr. Osondu Nwokoro, said: “The study consulted widely, obtained and processed information from the material segments of the communications industry including internet service providers, rural connectivity providers like community networks and cyber cafes, policy advocacy groups, consumer associations and relevant government agencies while also noting best practices in other countries.”

Recently the Chairman and CEO of Air Peace, Dr Allen Onyema, thanked the Minister of Aviation and the federal government for the commitment to help Nigerian carriers by agreeing in principle to facilitate ways Nigerian carriers canlease aircraft on the long term.

Onyema said that by that promise, the government has indicated that it is not paying lip service to its plan to provide lifeline and support to Nigerian airlines and a positive revolution in the aviation industry is now imminent.

Also, the Chief Operating Officer of United Nigeria Airlines, Mr. Osita Okonkwo had commended the Minister, saying that the Minister had met with the international lobby group to prompt the lessors to remove Nigeria from their blacklist and this include Aircraft Leasing Group (ALG), comprising the two largest aircraft makers, Airbus and Boeing.

THISDAY learnt this was one of the reasons why the Minister embarked on the bilateral working visit to France.

According to the Special Adviser to the Minister, Tunde Moshood, the recent visit to France by the Ministerhas marked a significant milestone in fostering collaboration and addressing critical issues facing Nigeria’s aviation industry.

“During the visit, airline operators were privileged to interact with various manufacturers of helicopters and aircraft, gaining insights into different models and technological advancements. The delegation’s

visit to Airbus Helicopters in Marseille and the aircraft manufacturing giant in Toulouse facilitated firsthand exposure to cutting-edge innovations and solutions within the aviation industry. Furthermore, the tour of ATR’s renowned manufacturing site offered valuable insights into the production processes of regional aircraft, highlighting the global standards upheld by industry leaders,” Moshood said.

He alsonoted that one of the pivotal discussions during the bilateral working visit centered on the challenges surrounding aircraft leasing in Nigeria, particularly the issue of insurance.

So, the delegation, led by Keyamo, engaged in discussions with Airbus and other French officials to identify viable solutions and chart a way forward. He added that the Minister’s proactive approach in addressing the complexities of insurance-related impediments reflects a commitment to streamlining processes and facilitating a conducive environment for airline operators.

“Minister Festus Keyamo underscored the government’s commitment to resolving longstanding issues hindering the leasing process for Nigerian airline operators. His advocacy efforts, including engagements with key stakeholders such as the Chief Justice of Nigeria and the Attorney General, demonstrate a proactive stance towards overcoming legal obstacles, such as “Jankara” injunctions, that impede lessors’ access to leased aircraft.

“The visit received an endorsement from Airbus CEO, Guillaume Faury, who emphasized the importance of collective efforts in resolving challenges within the Nigerian aviation sector. Faury’s recognition of Nigeria’s aviation potential underscores the significance of addressing critical issues to foster industry growth and attract investments. The collaborative spirit exhibited during the bilateral working visit signals a shared commitment among industry stakeholders to drive positive change and unlock the sector’s full potential,” Moshood further stated.

In the area of training, the visit made it possible for the Africa Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU) to sign a partnership agreement with France’s school of aviation for strengthening the school and boost the image of the new institution. Moshood said: “The icing on the cake for the bilateral working visit is the strategic partnership with the Africa Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU) and the French’ school of Aviation, as the registrar of the Nigerian school, Mustapha Abdullahi Sheikh, and the Business Development Manager of Ecole Nationale de l’Aviation Civile, Farbrice Fabre, formalized a landmark collaboration through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This significant milestone comes as a result of the visionary efforts spearheaded by the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo in exploring avenues for mutually beneficial relationships in the aviation sector.” Moshood added that the visit yielded positive outcomes for Nigeria’s aviation industry, including enhanced collaboration with aircraft manufacturers, proactive initiatives to address leasing challenges, and advocacy efforts to streamline regulatory processes, noting that as the sector continues to evolve, sustained engagement and collaborative endeavors would be essential in realizing the vision of a vibrant and sustainable aviation ecosystem in Nigeria.

As Enugu Repositions for Investment with Geographical Information Systems

Uche Anichukwu

Chief Damian Okeke (not real name), a Lagos-based indigene of Enugu State, who retired from the federal civil service, had a good retirement plan. Or so he thought. He invested virtually all his savings in a good plot of land in Enugu city, where he intended to build a block of commercial apartments. However, trouble began when he began to process the land documents and obtain a building approval from the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority, ECTDA. It emerged that the same people, who sold the land to him, had sold it to two other persons. He has been entangled in court processes to recover his money or property.

Unfortunately, his is only one of the many sad tales of many Nigerians and investors nationwide who have suffered unkind fates in the hands of land grabbers and corrupt public officers. From multiple salesl/allocation of a single property to different individuals/entities to prevalence of forged/fake title documents, among others, stories that touch the heart abound of hardworking and responsible Nigerians, who have been scammed in their quest to own property or fraudulently dispossessed of their land or property by landgrabbers aided and abetted by corrupt officials.

For instance, speaking at a stakeholders’ forum organised by the Lagos State Lands Bureau in 2021 to sensitise the people against fraudulent land transactions perpetrated by land grabbers, better known as ‘Omonile’, the Permanent Secretary of the Bureau at the time, Mr. Bode Agoro, lamented that “these land grabbers/Omonile have now taken their game to a new level, as they have the audacity to erect signposts bearing Lagos State Government logo and excision application file numbers in their desperate attempt to deceive prospective buyers into believing that sales of such lands are genuine transactions and have government backing.”

Recently, the Secretary to Government of Enugu State, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, had during an inspection of ongoing massive work at the

New Enugu City being undertaken by the Mbah administration, also had reasons to warn prospective land buyers in Enugu State to do their due diligence. Even while it is a clear knowledge that Enugu State Government had since the Sullivan Chime Administration begun the acquisition of the area now being developed by the Mbah administration and also gazetted the same, land grabbers did not stop scamming their unsuspecting victims. In fact, some people claimed they were sold parcels of land there in January this year, even when Governor Mbah flagged off the construction of New Enugu City in October last year. That is how daring land fraudsters can be.

Unfortunately, this national menace has far-reaching negative impacts and implications. It results in financial losses, and in the cases where such funds are bank loans, they plunge the victim into the debt

trap. Land frauds, in whatever form they manifest, erode investor confidence and sabotage economic growth. Most times, victims have no choice than to embark on litigation. In fact, land grabbers have become so daring that they would often dare their victims to go to court, knowing that the justice system is time-consuming, strenuous, and windy. They equally know that they have members of their syndicates entrenched in various government arms, organs, and agencies, from the land registries and ministries to as far as the judiciary, including the probate registries.

GIS TO THE RESCUE

Unfortunately, this syndrome has continued, not for the lack of the availability of technology to crackdown on the menace, but for lack of the political will to invoke or instate the requisite laws and technology. It is a known fact that Geographical Information Systems (GIS) is one of the most effective ways of checkmating land-related frauds.

In June 2021, Head of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s South East Zonal Office, Enugu, Oshodi Johnson, was pointblank when he received the Commissioner for Lands in Enugu State at the time, Victor Nnam. He said: “GIS will make it easier to certify the true owners of properties, verify the current ownership, or identify the exact location of land in event of doubt or scam,” adding “Enugu state government should consider asking that all land in Enugu be recertified and re-registered as have been done in other states; this process will not only make the commission’s duties easier, it will also make it easier for the ministry to identify land since links will be created and developed between textual data (land and legal registrations) and parcels of land. In fact, it will also be a great means of generating internal revenue for the state.” He could not have put it better. Indeed, besides reducing falsification of land documents and double allocations,

GIS speeds up response to property registration and inquiry, improves property security, rationalises land administration processes, boosts infrastructural development or improvement, boosts property related revenue generation, ensures physical reorganisation of land documents, among others.

THE MBAH LAND REFORMS

Candidate Peter Mbah, as he then was, had while unveiling his statement of purpose or manifesto ahead of the 2023 governorship election, expressed a vision to grow the state’s economy from $4.4bn to $30bn through private sector investment and to position it as the preferred destination for business, investment, tourism, and for living. Given the critical place of land to investment and economic growth, it was not surprising that he vowed to break the cycle of land frauds and delays/bottlenecks associated with land registration by introducing GIS and automating land services.

On page 25 of his manifesto, Mbah states: “In the area of l and, we shall continue the land reforms process and fully deploy the GIS and automation of land administration.”

In line with this promise, Governor Peter Mbah had, immediately upon his inauguration, embarked on a robust automation of all the government Ministries, Departments, and Ag encies (MDAs), starting with the Ministry of Lands and Urban Development, as part of enhancing Enugu’s ease of doing business ranking and to ensure that individuals and investors are able to process Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) within 72 hours. It was also in line with this determination that the governor initiated the Enugu State Geographical Information Systems Service Bill, which he recently signed into law after it was passed by the Enugu State House of Assembly.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Mbah

L-R: Osun State Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi; Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke; Principal Investigator, Prof. Ebun Adejuyigbe; and Scientist, World Health Organisation (WHO), Anayda Portela, during the visit of the WHO Team to the Governor’s Office in Abere, Osogbo…recently

L-R: Senior Transactor, Broader Africa Debt Capital Markets, Rand Merchant Bank, Laju Atake; Manager, Resource Mobilisation and FI Relations, Development Bank of Rwanda, Isaac Rugamba Rutagwenda; Head of Strategy and Research M&E and Resource Mobilisation, Development Bank of Rwanda, Fernand Kamanzi; FI Relations Officer, Development Bank of Rwanda, Joy Umulisa Dukuze; Transactor, Sustainable Finance, Rand Merchant Bank, Danielle Frank; and Managing Director, BK Capital Limited, Siongo Kisoso, during the Bonds Loans and ESG Capital Markets conference held in Cape Town, South Africa…recently

L-R: Executive Director, Oando Plc/ Chief Operating Officer, Oando Energy Resources, Dr. Ainojie Alex Irune; Chief Executive Officer, Exxonmobil Nigeria, Mr. Shane Harris; Executive Vice President (E & P), NNPC Limited, Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan; CEO, TotalEnergies, Mr. Matthieu Bouyer; Managing Director, First E&P Development Co Limited, Mr. Demola Adeyemi-Bero; Chairman, Independent Petroleum Producers Group (IPPG), Mr. Abdulrazaq Isa; CEO, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Gbenga Olu Komolafe; Managing Director, Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC)/Country Chair, Shell Companies in Nigeria, Osagie Okunbor; Managing Director, SNEPCo, Mrs. Elohor Aiboni; and CEO, Aradel Holdings Plc, Mr. Adegbite Falade, during the Nigerian Petroleum Producers plenary session at the 7th edition of the Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES 2024) held in Abuja… recently

L-R: Special Guests, Mr. Soji Alabi and Evang Adejoke Akande; Guest Minister, Prophet Funso Akande; Presiding Pastor, Glorious Restoration Church of Christ (GRCC), Paul Lawal; his wife, Deaconess Mojibola Lawal; and gospel artiste, Evang. Tope Alabi, during the dedication and Thanksgiving Service of Glorious Restoration Church of Christ held in Warewa, Ogun State…recently

PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT

L-R: Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Carl Cruz; Group CEO-designate, Airtel Africa, Sunil Tadar; Board Member, Airtel Africa, Awuneba Ajumogobia; Group CEO, Airtel Africa, Segun Ogunsanya; Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; and Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani; during the ground-breaking ceremony of Airtel NXtra Data Centre at Eko Atlantic City, Lagos…recently

L-R: Business Growth and Partnerships, mycover.ai, Kimberly Samugana; Head, Digital and Direct Marketing, FCMB, Tosin Adekoya; winner of the ‘Pitch Your Business’ competition/Founder, EduBreed, Chisom Ukachukwu; and Co-founder, Store Harmony, Oby Aladejobi, during the ‘Pitch Your Business’ competition organised by ALX Nigeria in partnership with 9mobile to commemorate International Women’s Day (IWD) 2024 in Lagos…recently

Kimberly Ihearahu: Providing Top-tier, Result-driven Wellness Treatment @ Perfecta Aesthetics

For Kimberly Chidera Ihearahu, her life’s passion has always been holistic wellness. Even though she initially ventured into events planning, she soon found her way back to calling. As Chief Executive Officer/Founder of Perfecta Aesthetic and Wellness Clinic, her strategic directive is to ensure dedicated and result-driven solutions for advanced skincare and wellness treatments. In this interview with Chiemelie Ezeobi, she revealed that Perfecta, which also has a sister Body Wax company “Perfecta smooth” as the first “wax company” and “home wax kit” company in Nigeria, treats client’s safety, value, comfort and confidentiality with topmost priority. Essentially, her goal is to provide top-tier treatments that foster transformation in the ever-evolving skincare industry

What is your focus at Perfecta?

We are focused on helping women and men who desire a smooth part to achieving their wellness and skin goals. We believe you can find your way to “as Perfect a skin as possible”. Our approach to skin care is “you” holding your hands and understanding your skin from the inside out. Our treatments and services are backed by research, education and high quality medical grade technology.

We aim to provide and deliver high quality treatments that sets off transformations in a flourishing industry and our goal is to give you the transformation you deserve, revive your health and wellness as well as restore confidence in your skin and you.

How did the journey to Perfecta start for you?

We started two years ago, so we’re relatively new, but we have a clear vision. Our inspiration stems from the desire to help people who lack confidence due to various skin concerns or problems. This is the gap we aim to address. Whether you’re a man or a woman, our goal is to assist you in reclaiming your skin health and boosting your confidence through improved skin care practices.

So prior to your incursion into the skincare world, what were you doing?

Prior to starting this venture, I was involved in the events industry, managing an event staffing agency. The transition to aesthetics might seem unexpected, but for me, it feels like destiny. It’s hard to explain, but I truly believe it’s a calling. While I initially aspired to pursue a career in medicine, particularly as a skin doctor or aesthetician, my passion for this field is undeniable. Interestingly, even as a child, people would often associate me with medical professions whenever they saw me in different church settings.

Despite my Catholic upbringing and regularly attending church with my mother, there was a recurring theme of being associated with medical instruments like a stethoscope. I can’t pinpoint exactly how I transitioned from these experiences, but at some juncture, I began to harbor a deep aversion towards it. After completing secondary school, my passion for medicine dwindled. However, as they say, when something is your true calling, divine intervention can steer you back regardless of the detours. This is why I often tell people that I cannot explain how I entered this profession, but it undeniably feels like my destined path, and I am fervently passionate about it.

How long did it take you to retrace to your calling?

It took me six to seven years to rediscover and fully embrace my calling.

Where were you trained?

I began attending aesthetics and dermatology schools in Nigeria. Additionally, I pursued online training with schools abroad in the US, and I am scheduled to further my studies in November in the US as well. For four years, I worked in the events industry until one morning, I made a spontaneous decision to register at a highly reputable aesthetics school in Lekki, Lagos. Upon enrolling in the cosmetic science class, I found my passion reignited, and since then, I haven’t looked back.

How has your journey been over the past two years?

The journey thus far has been more than just good; it’s been fulfilling. However, it hasn’t been entirely smooth sailing. Yet, when you’re passionate about something, work doesn’t feel like work. Instead, it’s akin to playing with your best friends every day.

Meeting clients feels like spending time with close companions, and though there’s undoubtedly work involved, it doesn’t feel burdensome. Aesthetic school provides a foundation, but the true learning begins when you start working directly with clients. Every individual’s skin reacts differently, presenting unique challenges that require creative solutions.

Despite the challenges, the journey has been rewarding. It’s about how you navigate and overcome obstacles that truly defines your expertise. So, while it hasn’t been an effortless journey, it’s been immensely worthwhile.

How have the reviews been so far?

The reviews I’ve received from my clients so far have been incredibly positive. Starting small in a modest space, I initially offered only waxing services due to limited resources. However, even with this humble beginning, I began receiving praise from clients, including

CEO Perfecta doing what she loves best

influencers. One notable instance was when an influencer I had treated shared a review of her experience on Snapchat, sparking further interest and positive feedback.

Many of my clients have been with me for over two years, indicating that I must be doing something right. Despite being an introvert and feeling anxious around people, the trust my clients place in me is humbling. Approximately 80 per cent of our reviews reflect satisfaction, though I recognise that it’s impossible to please everyone. Our focus is on delivering tangible results, and we’re committed to being a results-driven aesthetic service.

Our goal is to consistently achieve reviews in the range of 95-98 per cent reflecting our dedication to excellence and client satisfaction.

Do you often get referrals?

Our Instagram following isn’t extensive, so the majority of our clients come through word-of-mouth referrals. Despite the common belief that a strong social media presence is essential, our satisfied clients serve as our best advocates. Over the past two years, I’ve witnessed a steady stream of new clients who were referred by others. This reliance on word-of-mouth recommendations speaks volumes about the quality of service we provide. While social media may not be our primary source of clients, the consistent flow of referrals demonstrates that our work speaks for itself.

What are your expansion plans?

Our expansion efforts didn’t begin recently; they’ve been in progress for over a year and a half. This expansion serves as an introduction to our services for a broader audience. We’re committed to showcasing the range of treatments we offer, rather than simply opening new locations without context. In addition to our core services, such as chemical peels and micro-needling, we provide advanced treatments like stretch mark treatments and medical cosmetics. We also offer services aimed at enhancing overall health and wellness, such as PRP therapy and IV therapy. These procedures are carried out by certified registered nurses, ensuring the highest standard of care.

Have you ever experienced moments where you thought, “I shouldn’t have pursued this

line of business”?

One day, I confided in a colleague from aesthetics school about my decision to close down my business and relocate. Running a business in Nigeria presents numerous challenges, particularly regarding pricing and restocking. Clients who were accustomed to a certain price suddenly faced increases, reflecting the harsh economic realities. Despite investing heavily in advanced technology and ongoing education, ensuring top-notch results, I felt disheartened.

In Nigeria, even a celebrity like Genevieve would ultimately be judged on the outcomes she delivers. Popularity alone isn’t enough to sustain a business; clients prioritise tangible results above all else. I’ve come to realise that regardless of one’s status or fame, clients prioritise the transformation of their skin and the value they receive. As an entrepreneur, understanding this fundamental desire for results guides my approach to business.

I invest heavily in various aspects – financially, physically, and mentally. One crucial aspect is our LED technology; Dermalux LED is renowned globally for its effectiveness. Stretch marks are a common concern, and many believe creams or lasers alone can eliminate them. However, creams can’t address the underlying tear in the skin, and some lasers may not provide satisfactory results.

To tackle this issue, we’ve partnered NUE Conceal, based in Atlanta, US, offering two treatments: NUE Stretch Mark Revision (NSR) and NUE Camouflage. NSR remodels deep stretch marks, stimulating collagen production for scar healing. Camouflage, on the other hand, disguises old, wide stretch marks by matching the skin’s color, providing visible results after just one session.

While results may vary, even a single session can yield noticeable improvements. Additionally, our approach involves a combination of treatments, such as stretch mark revision followed by camouflage if necessary, to achieve optimal results.

Every aspect of our practice, from LED technology to our aesthetic pen/device is chosen for its effectiveness.

We prioritise investing in cutting-edge technology, staff training, and client satisfaction. Our goal is for every client to leave with transformed skin, enabling them to confidently share their positive experiences with others.

What are the challenges facing the business?

In Nigeria, one of the significant challenges facing

businesses is the issue of double taxation and unreliable electricity supply. However, the primary challenge we encounter consistently is with our electricity supply. We heavily rely on diesel generators to power our operations due to frequent power outages. Running multiple air conditioners throughout the day adds to the already substantial expense of fuel.

This situation prompts the question: Have we passed on these increased operating costs to our clients, and if so, has it deterred them? Truthfully, we’ve only adjusted our prices once since we started, despite fluctuations in the exchange rate. However, given the current circumstances, we’re compelled to revise our pricing structure.

To soften the impact on our clients, we’re offering a limited-time promotion with a 15 per cent discount on services. We encourage clients to take advantage of this offer today, as prices will be adjusted upward thereafter. It’s a necessary step to ensure the sustainability of our business while maintaining transparency and fairness with our clientele.

What unique aspect of your service or product do people often mention as your catchment area, distinguishing you from others in the market?

In Nigeria, I’m the sole provider of a highly effective stretch mark treatment. This treatment surpasses what others offer in terms of effectiveness and innovation. Additionally, I’m the exclusive practitioner of the NUE Conceal treatment in Nigeria. This unique approach sets us apart from other providers in the country. We are also the first clinic to carry this type of procedure/ treatment that effectively conceal not only stretchmarks but surgical scars, hypertrophic scars and also vitiligo.

Do you provide home services?

We initially ventured into waxing services under the brand names Perfecta Aesthetics and Perfecta Smooth. Perfecta Smooth specifically focused on waxing services. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I personally discovered a preference for waxing over shaving, leading me to explore the creation of my own wax. We developed a wax kit that we intended to distribute through Ebeano Supermarket and other interested supermarkets once we obtained our NAFDAC numbers.

Home waxing kits are not readily available in Nigeria, unlike shaving cream. Our kits are not only convenient but also aesthetically pleasing and easy to use. They offer a complete waxing solution, including post-waxing care with vegan-friendly ingredients sourced abroad. While financial constraints halted production temporarily, we plan to resume this venture in the future.

Where do you envision your company being in the next few years? What are your long-term goals and aspirations for the growth and development of your business?

Our goal is to provide top-tier treatments that foster transformation in an ever-evolving industry. While some may offer similar services, we strive to stand out by consistently delivering exceptional quality and results.

Looking ahead, I envision expanding Perfecta Aesthetics both within Nigeria and internationally, with branches in various states and countries. Additionally, I aspire to establish a robust skincare community in Nigeria, akin to those in the USA, where aestheticians can collaborate, share challenges, and find solutions.

Currently, I’m part of a small group of aestheticians with whom I share experiences and concerns. Together, we aim to address issues like skin bleaching and harmful cream mixing prevalent in Nigeria. As aesthetics gains prominence in Nigeria, I believe fostering a supportive community of professionals will be crucial for our collective growth and success.

Do you believe in collaborations?

I’m enthusiastic about collaborating with others and readily refer my clients to trusted partners for services I don’t provide. Additionally, we’re on the verge of introducing laser treatments, completing our comprehensive range of services.

When you visit Perfecta Clinic, expect personalised support as we embark on your transformation journey together. I prioritise building strong relationships with my clients, aiming not just to be a practitioner but also a trusted confidant.

Maintaining confidentiality is paramount, ensuring you feel comfortable discussing any skin concerns or conditions. I stay abreast of the latest advancements in technology and commit to continuous learning to deliver the best outcomes for you. Join me, and let’s embark on this transformative journey together.

Hon. Aisha Augie, Ace Photographer, Artist Takes Over as New CBAAC DG

Chiemelie Ezeobi

HonourableAishaAdamuAugie has assumed office as the new Director-General of the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC), an agency of the Federal Ministry ofArt, Culture and the Creative Economy, following her appointment by President Ahmed Bola Tinubu.

AishaAugie takes over the reins of affairs at the Pan-African cultural and creative institution after a successful handing over by Hon. Oluwabunmi Ayobami Amao, the erstwhile Director-General, recently held at the centre’s Head Office in Lagos.

During the handing over, Hon. Amao, who assumed office on September 1, 2020 expressed gratitude to God for the uncommon privilege to lead the agency as its DG.

While thanking the staff and management for their support and commitment for all that was achieved during her tenure, she stated that through the years, she gave her best.

She appealed to members of management of the centre to extend their support to her successor.

In her response, Hon. Aisha thanked Amao for the support and for ensuring a smooth transition, while promising that she would build on the achievements recorded during the tenure of the former DG.

She emphasised on the need for dedication and teamwork among management and staff

of the centre.

She further stated that her administration would deploy innovative ways to bolster the programmes of the centre so as to deliver on the mandate of the organisation, and in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President.

Earlier, Hon. Aisha Augie was guided to a tour of the facility at the centre by Hon. Amao, as part of activities for the handing over.

CBAAC is an agency saddled with the statutory responsibility

of promoting and propagating Black and African art and cultural heritage in its totality.

Established by Decree 69 of 1979, the centre came into existence after the hosting of the historic 2nd World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC ’77). An avid lover of experiential arts, Aisha Augie brings to CBAAC an impeccable profile and extensive track record of excellence, passion, dedication and service in the arts and creative

sector spanning over two decades.

Aisha Adamu Augie is an acclaimed multi-award winning Nigerian photographer, filmmaker and artist known for her exceptional contributions to the arts, culture and creative industry.

In 2011, she was named Creative Artist of the Year at The Future Awards. She also won the Sisterhood Award for Photographer of the Year in 2014. In the same year, she emerged winner of the British Council Through-My-Eyes Competition.

In 2009, she co-founded the Photowagon, a collective dedicated to promoting Nigerian photography and went on to showcase her artistic dexterity with her first solo photographic exhibition, titled “Alternative Evil” in 2014.

Beyond her individual pursuits, Aisha Augie actively contributes to the creative community. She became an Associate for the Nigeria Leadership Initiative (NLI) in May 2011 and served as the vice-president of Women in Film and Television in Nigeria (WIFTIN), the West African chapter of the US-based network.

Aisha’s journey extends beyond the arts. She has actively contributed to initiatives focused on women and girl child/youth educational development. She participated in the 50@50 celebrations in 2010, a commemoration of 50 Nigerian women, supported by the Women for Change Initiative.

NN Strengthens Partnership with Pakistan as Navy War College DelegatesVisits

Chiemelie Ezeobi

As part of measures to strengthen the already existing partnership, a delegate from the Pakistan Navy WarCollegerecentlypaidacourtesy calltotheWesternNavalCommand (WNC) of the Nigerian Navy (NN) in Apapa, Lagos.

Received by the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command (WNC), Rear MustaphaHassan,whowasrepresented by WNC Chief Staff Officer, RearAdmiralAbdulhammedBaba Inna,thenavy bossemphasisedthe ongoing collaboration between the two nations to enhance maritime security and safety.

While highlighting the signifi-

canceofsuchcollaborationsbetween maritime nations, he said the visit was part of a continuous program of exchanges between the Nigerian Navy and Pakistan Navy, adding that officers from both countries benefit from each other’s expertise for the benefit of their respective nations.

Acknowledging the impressive capabilities of the Pakistan Navy’s special forces, he mentioned that Nigerian personnel have trained in those institutions, adding that given the vast maritime environment, the collaboration between the two nations is deemed necessary for the West African sub-region.

While pointing out the arrangements with Gulf of Guinea nations and other WestAfrican countries, he

regaled the visitors with the success of collaborative efforts in curbing piracy, particularly in Nigerian waters, with no significant reports in the past two years.

He said: “The collaboration and training in the maritime environment have greatly contributed to this success. The collaboration is a continuous process and is expected to yield mutual benefits.

“The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, has stressed the importance of sustaining such collaborations for the betterment of the Nigerian Navy.”

The Pakistan team led by Commodore Abid Hussain, ACNS SOF&M (Special Ops Forces in Marines);CommanderAsadYaseen,

Directing Staff (Navy); and Wing Commander Raz Abid, Directing Staff (Air), also re-echoed the shared maritime interests between the two nations.

They also spoke about the need for collaborative efforts, exchanges, and operations to exchange ideas and learn from each other.

The Western Naval Command, as the Premier Command in the Nigerian Navy, has been actively engaged in receiving delegations and participating in collaborative efforts, exercises, and support initiatives with various nations.

The continuous process is anticipated to further enhance the capabilities and effectiveness of the Nigerian Navy in safeguarding maritime security.

Bloomfield LP Celebrates 17th Anniversary with Spectacular Sailing Race

Stories

by

Mary Nnah

Bloomfield LP, a leading legal powerhouse, marked its 17th anniversary with an unforgettable sailing race hosted at the prestigious Lagos Yacht Club. The event brought together legal professionals, esteemed clients, and sailing enthusiasts for camaraderie and celebration.

The law firm, known for its commitment to excellence and community engagement, organised the sailing race as a unique way to commemorate its successful 17-year journey in the legal landscape. The event showcased the firm’s dedication to legal prowess and its passion for fostering connections beyond the work.

The event featured a series of exhilarating races, with skilled sailors navigating the picturesque Lagos waters. Attendees were treated to breathtaking views and enjoyed a festive atmosphere of valuable networking, trivia challenges, award presentations, and interactive games that perfectly

captured the spirit of the firm’s anniversary celebration.

The top three winners of each category, Mixed Monohull, Lightning and Hobiecat, were given exciting prizes.

One of the partners, Adedoyin Afun expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received over the years, stating, “We are honoured to reach this milestone,

and organising a sailing race at the Lagos Yacht Club allowed us to celebrate with our valued clients, colleagues, and friends in a truly memorable way. It reflects our commitment to building lasting relationships inside and outside the legal arena.”

The event was well attended by notable dignitaries such as Mr. Bunmi Akinyemi, Head

IKOT EKPENE SENATORIAL DISTRICT NEW EXECUTIVES TAKE OATH OF ALLEGIANCE

The newly elected executive officers of the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District (ISD) Community in Lagos recently took an oath of allegiance. They pledged to work together and be dedicated to service, seeing their office as a rare opportunity to contribute to the progress of the district and the overall development of Akwa Ibom State.

Duringtheswearing-inceremony,specialguestofhonourandmember representingAbak, Etim Ekpo and Ika Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Clement Jimbo, congratulated the newly inaugurated officials and urged them to leverage their competence and bring their wealth of experience and ideas together to meet the expectations of members.

Jimbo reminded the officials that they must exercise caution and due diligence when serving to ensure they are in line with the constitution and needs of the district community. He also emphasized the importance of the oath of office they had solemnly taken, which is of profound significance. The chairman of the occasion, Barr. Mike Umonnan; Father of the Day, Dr. Udo Udo-Aka; president of Akwa Ibom Community, Lagos, Dr. Edet Ambang; Lagos Chapter Co-ordinator, MPM, Akparawa Otuekong Ubong Jackson; and the NPA Ports manager, Comrade Charles Okada, all congratulated the newly sworn-in members of the district community. They pledged their effective support and collaboration, gave them fatherly blessings, and urged them to see their office as a clarion call to serve and contribute to the development of the district community and Akwa Ibom State in general. In his inaugural speech, the President of Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District Community, Lagos, Elder Samuel Usoro, expressed appreciation to God for making the day a reality. He pledged transparency, accountability, inclusive and strong governance, and stated that members’ voices would be heard and their concerns addressed.

He also promised to enhance stakeholder relations and support for the 10 LGAs under the district in Lagos.

Usoro appealed to the Akwa Ibom governor, Pastor Umo Eno, to accommodate indigenes of the senatorial district community in Lagos in his skills acquisition programmes, business, entrepreneurial support schemes, empowerment/ welfare programmes, education/scholarship schemes, consultancy/job opportunities, etc., as this gesture would go a long way to give them a sense of belonging.

DISNEY ANIMATION, KUGALI NEW SERIES “IWÁJÚ” MAKES WORLD PREMIERE IN LAGOS

Walt Disney Animation Studios and Kugali, a Pan-African entertainment company, premiered their new six-episode series titled “Iwájú” at the Filmhouse Cinemas IMAX Lekki in Lagos.

The Lagos premiere of “Iwájú” is a significant milestone in the entertainment industry, as it showcases the power of collaboration across cultures and highlights the potential of African storytelling.

The world premiere event was hosted ahead of the February 28th global launch on Disney+.

The show will also be available to viewers acrossAfrica on the Disney Channel via the DStv platform in April and May. This distribution strategy allows viewers in areas where Disney+ is not available to access the series.

The show features the voice talents of Ireti Doyle, Chioma ‘Chigul’ Omeruah, Kehinde Bankole, Bisola Aiyeola, Femi Branch, Simisola Gbadamosi, Toyin Oshinaike, and Obi Maduegbuna. The music for the series, featuring authenticAfrican-influenced music, is by Nigerian composer Ré Olunuga.

Set in futuristic Lagos, Nigeria, the series follows the coming-of-age story of Tola, a young girl from a wealthy island, and Kole, a self-taught tech expert. The duo discovers secrets and dangers hidden in their different worlds, making for a captivating storyline.

The series has also inspired the creation of a new game called “Disney Iwájú: Rising Chef.” This game takes players into the world of “Iwájú” and allows them to explore authentic African delicacies through a fast-paced and accessible cooking game.

ANATOMY OF CRIME OF CORRUPTION SET FOR LAUNCH IN ABAKALIKI

Corporate Finance, Conpurex Limited; Mr. Omo Omorodion, General Counsel, ND Western Limited; Mrs. Sandra Williams, Head, Customer Relations, InfoWARE Limited; Mr. Femi Akande, Former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Osun State amongst others. The event was proudly supported by Josien Holdings Limited, providing guests with unlimited premium drinks.

The anniversary sailing race at the Lagos Yacht Club was a resounding success, marking another milestone in Bloomfield’s legacy. The firm looks forward to continuing its legal excellence and community engagement journey for years to come.

Bloomfield Law is a specialist commercial and dispute resolution law firm with a comprehensive approachtoservingclientsacrossvarious industries. Established in 2007, the firm has a team of experienced and highly qualified lawyers and is committed to providing innovative and effective legal solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs.

Yinka Olatunbosun

A two-volume doctoral research book titled ‘Anatomy of Crime of Corruption Constitutional Framework as The Tap-Root,’ is set for public presentation next month at McGetterick’s Catholic Pastoral Centre, Abakaliki.

Written by a lawyer and politician, Onu John Onwe, the book was written based on the author’s curiosity on the history of corruption in Nigeria and why the fight against the scourge has been a stalemate over the years. At a press conference held yesterday at Thought Pyramid Art Centre, Ikoyi, Lagos the author argued that for anyone to fight corruption, there must be a clear understanding of the crime of corruption. The author said: “Nigerian rulers and their governments consider corruption the chief problem of the country. But it appears that they have never bothered to understand what corruption is, and how to tackle it.

“Every ruler and every government have burdened themselves with the problem of corruption that it is now a sing song. But that is where it stops and ends because once the ruler climbs unto the throne, the problem of corruption surrounds him and overwhelms him.

“It is this problem that I have observed and decided to study it to discover what it is with a view to solving the problem.”

Digging into Nigerian’s colonial history, the author discovered that the source of corruption in Nigeria is the nation’s feudal state structure and constitutional framework that bred it.

Onwe explained: “The history of Nigeria is a history of conquests, subjugation under restrictive laws and abridgement of freedoms. Nigeria has never been free since its formation between 1862 and 1914. The British conquerors/colonizers deployed humungous violence to conquer and subjugate the over 300 ethnic nationalities to form Nigeria.

Hon. Aisha Adamu Augie after taking as new Director-General of the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC), from Hon. Oluwabunmi Ayobami Amao (r)

Partner, Bloomfield LP, Dr. Ayodele Oni; General Counsel, ND Western Limited, Omo Omorodion and members of the prestigious Lagos Yatch Club at the Bloomfield Sailing Race recently in Lagos

Consul General: China Bilateral Cooperation with Nigeria Key to Development

Kayode Tokede

The Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos, Ms. Yan Yuqing, has highlighted some advantages of the bilateral co-operation between Nigeria and China.

She stated that it was the signalling of a new phase of high-quality development and global opportunities.

Consul General in a statement stated that a pivotal aspect of China’s economic ascent has been its commitment to opening up policies, while stressing the necessity for continuous advancement in opening up at a higher standard to foster China’s high-quality development and ensure global benefits.

According to her, China aims to solidify progress in Belt and Road cooperation and deepen bilateral, multilateral, and regional economic

cooperation, as plans including measures to attract more foreign investment by shortening the negative list for foreign investment and abolishing market access restrictions have been identified.

Asserting that the transformative impact of China’s cooperation was exemplified by the successful inauguration of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit Red Line project undertaken by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), the Consul General hailed this as a significant achievement of the Belt and Road Initiative, emphasizing its contribution to Nigeria’s transportation infrastructure. Furthermore, she highlighted other notable achievements, such as the largest container vessel berthing at the Lekki Deep Sea Port and the efficient

operation of the Lagos-Ibadan Railway for over 1000 days, which has facilitated travel and accelerated Nigeria’s industrial and agricultural modernization.

The Consul General also underscored the positive impact of Chinese enterprises operating within free trade zones in Nigeria, contributing to local economic advancement and prosperity.

In concluding remarks, she reiterated China’s commitment to sharing the fruits of development with Nigeria and emphasized the importance of mutual trust, openness, and inclusiveness in bilateral relations.

She further declared optimism that as cooperation continued to deepen, more opportunities for mutual growth will arise, ultimately fostering a safer, friendlier, and more modern Nigeria.

NECA: SME’s Need Business Friendly Loans

Nume Ekeghe

The National Institute of Credit Administration, (NECA) has said the availability of loans with low interest rates and flexible repayment terms will boost the profitability of small and medium enterprises in the country.

In a statement issued by the Chief Executive Officer of NICA, Prof. Chris Onalo, the institute said a business-friendly loan will encourage intending and existing business owners to borrow to start new businesses and expand existing ones.

According to the institute, businesses in advanced countries are well positioned to compete better in their countries, and even in other countries where they expand to

because of access to low-interest rate loans which are usually lower single digits.

The statement said, “It is difficult for businesses to break even with high-interest rate loans because the SMEs have other high operating costs which will make repayment a challenge to them. To be better competitors and be empowered to expand their trades, businesses should have access to single-digit interest-rate loans with flexible repayment options. This is the ideal situation that will boost a business-friendly environment.”

The institutes advocate support that will enable businesses to thrive better in the country because they provide livelihood to a large proportion of the population.

According to NICA, access to cheap loans will provide more finance to SMEs because they will have more money to save, it will reduce their debt repayment burden, and increase capital for expansion as they will pay less over the life span of the loan.

While observing that lending institutions may not want to offer long-term loans in some cases, NICA advocates flexible loan solutions will help to reduce repayment strain on the business owners’ finances.

With access to flexible repayment terms, NICA says, entrepreneurs will avoid patronizing loan sharks, and choose from a variety of loan durations that suits their repayment plans to fit their budget and financial goals.

JTI Nigeria GM AppointedVice Chairman, Industrial Group of LCCI

The General Manager of Habanera Limited, a subsidiary of Japan Tobacco International, JTI, Mr Thomas Adams, has been appointed as the Vice Chairman of the Industrial Group of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, LCCI.

According to the LCCI, Adams’ appointment is in “appreciation of his active role in the Nigerian economy and the recognition of JTI as a major stakeholder in the industrial sector”. The Industrial Group of LCCI draws its membership from reputable organizations in

Nigeria and focuses its activities on matters affecting stakeholders in the sector.

Responding, Mr Adams said, “I am extremely pleased to accept the nomination to serve as the Vice-Chairman of the Industrial Group of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, LCCI.

At JTI, we recognize the value industry Associations bring and we will continue to lend our support to strengthen their capacities to lead conversations that drive business growth.”

Mr Adams is a seasoned

leader with over two decades of experience in the tobacco industry. He has been GM, JTI Nigeria since 2021. Prior to this, he was GM JTI Israel and Market Manager, JTI Cyprus, among other strategic positions, where he has demonstrated exceptional expertise in steering business units through the complexities of competitive international markets.

Last year, Mr Adams was appointed Member of the Governing Council of the Nigeria Employers Consultative Association, NECA.

Adozillion Homes Appoints Egube Board Chairman

Michael Olugbode

A seasoned technocrat and the immediate past Lagos Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Samuel Egube has been appointment as the board chairman of Nigeria’s leading real estate development company, Adozillion Homes and Realty His appointment was disclosed by the Chief Executive Officer of the company, Dr. Simon Adozi at the end of the company’s inaugural board meeting in Lagos.

Adozi said; “I am thrilled to announce the appointment of Mr. Egube to lead our board

made up of seven industry leaders. Their experience will be invaluable as we navigate our mission of making real estate development and investment dreams a reality for all Nigerians.”

Egube, a highly respected figure in Nigerian finance and public service, served as Lagos State Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget from 2019 to 2023.

Adozi said: “Mr. Egube’s addition to the board marks a new chapter for our company,” adding that: “We look forward to his contributions and the positive impact he will have on

Adozillion Homes and Realty.”

Egube boasts a distinguished career spanning over two decades across finance, insurance, agriculture, and technology. He has held leadership positions at First Bank of Nigeria, UBA, and Diamond Bank, fostering strong relationships and driving growth through innovative solutions.

Egube’s entrepreneurial spirit is evident in his role as CEO of S.A.E Nigeria Ltd, where he provided business solutions across high-growth sectors. He currently chairs AltAssist Limited and Celd Innovations Limited.

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage)

The price of OPEC basket of twelve crudes stood at $81.30 a barrel on Tuesday, compared with $79.70 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

Investors Demand for FBN Holdings, 18 Others Lift Stock Market

Kayode Tokede

The stock market segment of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) appreciated marginally by 0.05 per cent on investors renewed interest in FBN Holdings Plc, Access Holdings Plc, and 17 others.

The stock market for the fourth consecutive trading this week has maintained positive momentum amid Central Bank of Nigeria

(CBN) moves to lure investors with lucrative yield on Government Securities. As FBN Holdings appreciated by 4.32 per cent to close at N35.00 per share, Access Holdings gained per cent to close at N23.35 per share, the NGX All-Share Index nudged slightly higher by 0.05 per cent to settle at 104,056.21 basis points from 104,007.31 basis points the stock market opened for trading.

Consequently, the overall market capitalisation gained N27.64 billion to close at N58.83 trillion from N58.81 trillion it close for trading the previous day.

The market capitalisation in four days has appreciated by N1.54trillion driven by factor of demand and supply, most especially in Transcorp Power Plc, and Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, Investor sentiment, as measured

by market breadth was negative, as 19 stocks gained relative to 22 losers amid declining issues outnumbering the advancing ones.

Royal Exchange Plc leads the gainers chart, followed by Unilever Nigeria Plc and Tantalizer Plc.

Royal Exchange appreciated by 9.72 per cent to close at N0.79 per share, while Unilever Nigeria added 9.59 per cent to close at N16.00 per share. Tantalizer gained 8.57 per cent to close at N0.38

per share as UPDC increased by 7.14 per cent to close at N1.50 per share.

In addition, the stock price of Regency Insurance Plc grew by 5.41 per cent to close at N0.39 per share.

On the loser table, International Energy Insurance Plc was down by 10 per cent to close at N1.35 per share, while Sunu Assurance depreciated by 9.93 per cent to close at N1.27 per share. Inter-

national Breweries dropped by 9.91 per cent to close at N4.00 per share as Consolidated Hallmark Insurance dipped by

Analysis of yesterday ‘s market activities showed trade turnover settled lower relative to the previous session, with the value of transactions down by 18.76per cent.

A total of 226.31mlliion shares valued at N7.41billiion were exchanged in 5,823 deals.

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF MARCH /13/24

Thisday Afrinvest Index up 11bps

Thisday Afrinvest 40 index gained 11bps to print at 4,466.46 index points on the back of price ACCESSCORP (+1.5%), ETI (+4.6%), and FBNH count for 15.0% of the index.

Local Bourse Records Marginal Gain... ASI up 5bps

Yesterday, the NGX-ASI rose 5bps to close at

in FBNH (+ 4.3%), DANGSUGAR (+3.8%), and ETI (+4.6%). Consequently, YTD return improved to

to 58.8tn.

volume and value traded dipped 30.8% and 7.4bn.

Mixed Sector Performance

Performance across our coverage sectors was mixed as three indices gained, two lost while the Oil & Gas Consumer Goods index advanced 0.4%, buoyed by buying interest in DANGSUGAR (+3.8%) and UNILEVER (+9.6%). Gains in FBNH (+4.3%), ACCESSCO (+1.5%), and WAPCO (+0.9%) pushed the Banking and Industrial Goods indices up 25bps and Insurance and AFR-ICT

SURE (-9.9%), AIICO (-1.0%), and MTNN (-0.4%).

Outlook breadth, worsened to -0.04x (from 0.13x in the prior session) as 19 stocks advanced, 22

pect the market close in the red on the back of

THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 INDEX

EU DELEGATION’S COURTESY VISIT TO SOKOTO GOVERNOR...

Ningi Alleges Plot to Arrest Him as Constituents Seek Reversal of Suspension

Ndume: Each senator got N200m for projects, but presiding officers received more Investigation must be thorough, says Atiku Call for Akpabio's resignation morally reprehensible, senate spokesperson declares

Chuks Okocha, Sunday Aborisade in Abuja and Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi

Embattled Senator Abdul Ningi has alleged that the Senate was making attempts to arrest him over his allegation of padding the 2024 appropriation budget to the tune of N3.7 trillion.

Ningi disclosed this in an interview on Arise Television, just as his constituents in Bauchi Central Senatorial District have given the Senate a two-week ultimatum to lift the suspension on Ningi.

Also, Senate Chief Whip, Ali Ndume, yesterday, said each senator was allocated N200 million for their constituency projects in the 2024 budget, but that presiding officers got more.

In a similar breath, former VicePresident, Atiku Abubukar, has called for a thorough investigation into the allegations by Ningi

But the Chairman, Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, has berated the PDP for demanding the resignation of Akpabio over Ningi’s claim of N3.7trn budget padding, saying it was morally reprehensible.

However, following the resignation of Senator Abdul Ningi as the Chairman of the Northern Senators Forum, the group on Thursday named Senator Abdulaziz Yar'adua (Katsina Central) as his replacement.

The Senate, in the week, suspended Ningi for three months over claims that projects worth N3.7 trillion in the 2024 budget were untraceable.

But Ningi, who said no one could control the can of worms he had opened, added: “That is why I said I know this parliament very well. I have come a long way. And that is why we are speaking. Let’s speak.

“Have they ever asked me since the beginning of this so-called crisis, where are your findings? Where are the documents? I’m not using my head to come up with figures.

“Nobody has talked to me about evidence. Nobody has suggested even listening to me. All they are trying to do is to ensure that ‘how do we make sure that Ningi is silenced or arrested so that he doesn’t do anything?’

“I have opened this can of worms. Neither they nor I will be able to control it.”

This, nonetheless, Ningi’s constituents in Bauchi, represented by a Coalition of Youths groups led by its Chairman, Nazeef Abdullahi Rio, addressed members of the

correspondents chapel yesterday.

They stated that it became imperative for them to address the press in order to express their position on the unfortunate events unfolding in the Senate.

According to the group, "the Senator representing our dear Constituency, Distinguished Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi, was unfairly and unjustifiably suspended for three months.

"As constituents of Bauchi Central Senatorial District, we condemn in its entirety, the decision of the Senate under the leadership of Senator Godswill Akpabio to suspend the Senator representing us, Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi for his sincere concern about irregularities in the 2024 budget, which if left unchecked will have negative consequences on our dear Constituency, our state and the country in general.

"To our total dismay, instead of the Senate to commend Senator Ningi for his patriotic discovery and investigate the irregularities with a view to addressing them for the best interest of the Country, it ended up unjustifiably suspending him thereby denying his rights as Senator and Nigerians and our rights of being represented at the Senate. This is the highest level of injustice meted on any senator and any Senatorial District in the history of our dear country," the group added.

The group further stated that, "We are also shocked to hear some divisive and dangerous comments by some senators, especially Senator Jimoh Ibrahim and the Senate Leader, Senator Michael Bamidele, about our dear senator and the Northern region, which have the tendencies of causing hatred and disunity among various parts of the country at this time in the history of Nigeria, when unity, peace and understanding are dearly needed. We call on them to withdraw these unguided and ungodly statements and apologise to Senator Ningi and all northerners.

"As people of Bauchi Central, we declare our total support and solidarity to Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi. We equally strongly commend him for standing firm to represent our views and fight for our rights and that of the entire Nigerians."

However, Ndume, speaking in an interview on Channels Television monitored in Abuja, Ndume said 10 senators, who were leaders, including himself, got more than N200 million in constituency allocation. Senator Jarigbe Jarigbe, representing

Cross River north, had claimed that some “senior senators” got N500 million in the 2024 budget for constituency projects.

Speaking on the matter, Ndume said Ningi was wrong for the budget padding allegation, adding that the Bauchi senator wanted to make the 2024 budget an ethnic issue.

The Borno senator said the issue of constituency projects was not a new phenomenon in Nigerian politics.

He added that most of his colleagues know that he got more funds than they did because of his position as the chief whip.

“All the senators have N200 million each for their constituency projects but I’m a leader. That’s the difference. Ten of us are leaders, including the ones in the opposition. They got more than the floor members. It is normal.

“My colleagues know that I got more than the N200 million allocation. We are not all the same. All animals are equal but some are more equal than others. That is the case.”

Ndume, however, declined to disclose the exact amount he received for his “constituency projects.”

Atiku Calls for Thorough Investigation

Presidential candidate of the PDP in the 2023 general election, Atiku Abubakar, has called for a thorough

investigation into the allegations by Senator Abdul Ningi

In a statement, Atiku said, "I demand an immediate and thorough investigation into these allegations. Appropriation lies at the heart of governance, and any deviation from serving the people's interests will be met with fierce opposition."

According to Atiku, “Over the past few days, allegations have rocked the senate, questioning the very integrity of the 2024 Appropriation Act, the cornerstone of our nation's annual planning and development.

"A fiscal policy analytics and advocacy organisation has unequivocally confirmed a disturbing lack of transparency within the 2024 Appropriation Act," Atiku stated

Furthermore, the former vicepresident said the sudden suspension of the whistle-blower senator, without adequate explanation, has only fuelled the crisis, leaving us with more questions than answers.

"Denials are unacceptable, and the suspension of one senator cannot silence accusations of corruption and illegal fiscal spending by the federal government.

"Without a clear explanation to the people of Nigeria, we must treat these allegations for what they are: outright fraud. The accusation of budget padding totaling N3 trillion cannot be dismissed lightly by the

government.

"Given the current hardships facing our nation, a padded budget is already translating into a padded hunger, padded poverty, padded insecurity, padded energy crises, padded forex instability, and the soaring cost of living.

"The people of Nigeria cannot afford to ignore allegations that worsen our already dire economic situation," Atiku stressed

He explained that the current federal government has a disgraceful track record of ignoring issues of transparency and due process in public administration.

"The unresolved $3.3 billion NNPCL loan repayment scandal, with Nigeria now expected to repay $12 billion, remains a glaring example. The Tinubu administration must address these high-profile corruption cases transparently.

"The National Assembly, as the elected representatives of the people, are constitutionally obligated to legislate for the peace, order, and good governance of our nation, without colluding with corrupt elements.

"Failure to do so and persisting in denial will only confirm the government's complicity in official malpractice."

Call for Akpabio's Resignation Morally Reprehensible, Says

Senate Spokesperson

The Chairman, Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, has berated the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for calling for the resignation of Senator Akpabio over claim of N3.7trn budget padding allegations by the suspended Senator Abdul Ningi.

Adaramodu in his reaction yesterday, said “The PDP has elevated chicanery to statecraft and fatally failed in their sordid attempt to hoodwink the unsuspecting public, on the ineffectual but spurious allegations of budget padding."

Adaramodu said "PDP's ludicrous call for the resignation of Senator Godswill Akpabio as the Senate President is unthinkable and shows the party as a massaging balm for falsehood and immoral Legislative outbursts."

He added that, "Akpabio will not resign and has no intention to resign at any time, because he has not committed any wrongdoing to warrant a resignation.”

He said it was shocking that the PDP leadership could not comprehend what transpired at Tuesday's plenary, where the allegations were debated and Senator Abdul Ningi, who was given the ample opportunity to defend himself and prove the budget padding allegations was suspended after he failed to substantiate his claims in the full glare of the public.

FG Proposes $1bn for Rehabilitation of Nation's Ports

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The federal government has revealed that it has proposed $1 billion investment for the rehabilitation of the nation's sea ports.

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, said the government has not achieved the maximum benefits to be derived from the port concession due to inability to improve the port infrastructure to the desired standard for efficient operation, most of which have or are approaching the end of their life span.

The minister, who was represented by Permanent Secretary, Oloruntola Michael, disclosed this yesterday when he appeared before the House Committee on Privatisation.

He, however, added that during the course of rehabilitation the ports, the ministry would ensure the ports were not completely shut down.

Oyetola recalled that the federal government embarked on Port reforms in 2005/2006 in order to enhance operational efficiency, improve productivity and revenue accrual to government, attract investment to the port sector and technology transfer, among others.

He stressed that the reform resulted in the delineation of the six port complexes in Lagos, Port Harcourt, Calabar, Onne and Warri into 26 terminals and transfer of cargo operations, which was hitherto performed by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to the Terminal Operators that emerged through competitive bidding process.

The minister explained that this culminated in the Lease Agreements signed between NPA (Lessor) and Private Terminal Operators (Lessee) with the Bureau of Public Enterprises as the Confirming party for a specified period ranging between

10-25 years.

He added that, “The Landlord Model” was adopted where the lands for port development and related activities within areas declared as ports are owned and administered by NPA with responsibilities also assigned to the private operators.

Oyetola noted that the five expired leases were initially granted a ten year concession at Apapa, Tincan Island and Delta Ports as follows: ENL Consortium Limited, Terminal C, Apapa effective from 3rd April, 2006; ENL Consortium Limited, Terminal D, Apapa effective from 3rd April, 2006;Port & Cargo Handling Services Limited.

Others are: Tin Can Island effective from 9th August, 2006; Josepdam Port Services Nig. Limited, Tin Can Island effective from 9th August, 2006; and Associated Maritime Services Ltd, Terminal A, Warri effective from 23rd November, 2006.

The minister revealed that extensions of five years were however granted to compensate the above Terminal Operators in accordance with Section 25 of the Port Act due to budgetary constraints and the NPA's inability to discharge some of its obligations as stipulated in the lease agreements.

He pointed out that other challenges included inability of NPA to meet the advertised depth for vessel reception, changes in government policies, encumbrances of lease property, insecurity on the waterways and collapsed access roads to the ports, among others.

Oyetola stressed that the extension expired in 2021 and further extended for six month period twice, noting that the Terminal Operators have now approached NPA to renew the Concession Agreement, adding that this was forwarded to the ministry by NPA.

L-R: Chief of Staff, Sokoto Government House, Alhaji Aminu Dikko; Ms Leila Ben Amos, Head of Human Development, European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS; Sokoto State Governor, His Excellency Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto; European Union Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ambassador Samuela Isopi; the Deputy Governor of Sokoto State, Alhaji Idris Muhammad Gobir; Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Muhammad Bello Sifawa; Osaro Odemwingie, Political Adviser at European Union Delegation when the EU paid a courtesy call on the State Governor in Sokoto...recently

AWARD PRESENTATION TO MARK THE WEMA BANK INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY...

Ex-NASS Member, Oyebamiji, Jailed 16 Months for Defamation, Forgery

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

A Chief Magistrate Court sitting in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, yesterday, sentenced a former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Folaranmi Oyebamiji, to one year and four months imprisonment for being found guilty of offences of conspiracy, false publication, forgery, threat to murder an Oko Town High Chief and his households, as well as, conduct likely to cause breach of the peace.

The Chief Magistrate, Muideen Salami, however granted the convict a fine of N500,000 in lieu of the sentence. In his over one hour judgment, he sentenced the convict to six months imprisonment on count of conspiracy with option of N150,000; three months

for count two of false publication/ defamation with fine of N150,000; six months for the offence of forgery with option of fine of N100,000; and one month for the offence of threat to murder with a fine of N100,000.

The sentence was to run concurrently, the Chief Magistrate ordered.

The former lawmaker had been arraigned in 2021 by the Oyo State Police Command along with a 94-year old Oko town traditional title holder, Mathew Wojuade Ademola, and five others.

They included Wojuade Gbemiga, Wojuade Philip, Bello Semiu Opeyemi, Eyolade Joshua Adewumi, and Adeniyi Idowu. They were charged with alleged conspiracy to murder High Chief Solomon Ojedayo in Oko

Town, a suburb of Ogbomoso.

While the prosecutor, Mr M.A. Ojei, represented the Commissioner of Police in the charge marked MOG/190c/2021, Dr. Olutayo Oyewale held the watching brief for the complainant, while Niran Oyekale represented the defendants.

After the prosecution had called five witnesses against the defendants, the six other defendants except Oyebamji informed the court on December 22, 2023 through Oyewale, that they had deposed to separate affidavits in Ibadan High Court Registry in which they had settled with the complainant, High Chief Solomon Ojedayo.

Their names were therefore struck out from the charge, leaving Oyebamji to open his defence to the charge brought against him.

At the conclusion of the trial and submission of written addresses by both Ojei and Ojekale, the court, yesterday, reviewed the case and found Oyebamji guilty of all the counts.

The convict had given an alibi during trial that at the material time he was said to have committed the offences, he was involved in an accident and was admitted at the UCH, Ibadan on 17th December, 2019 and discharged on January 18, 2020, before returning to Oko on the 27th June, 2020.

He, however, said he did not disclose this information to the Police in Ibadan and Zone 11, Osogbo, because he was not asked such question.

The court discountenanced the

claim of alibi, saying he only imported such as an excuse during the trial amounting to after-thought.

"The accused person only tendered his photograph with crutches, neck girdle, without vehicle inspection report of the accident. There was no photo of the accidented vehicle to support his defence.

“The alibi according to decided authorities must have been promptly and lucidly disclosed to the police during investigation. It is the considered opinion of this court that the alibi is an after-thought which cannot avail the accused person," the court said.

The prosecution had also alleged that Oyebamji on his facebook account had, "threatened the lives of Chief Solomon Ojedayo and his

household by sending defamatory and threatening messages to his phone via Facebook that his life will soon be over as it cost him nothing to eliminate him and his households. He had also described High Chief Solomon Ojedayo as ‘Sosoliso Ojedidakuda, Olowo Igbo" on the Facebook, an act considered as defamatory

Though he denied referring to the complainant as "Sosoliso Ojedidakuda", claiming that he is a writer, a poet and author, who could use words figuratively, the Court held that the coincidence of the name simulation with the reference drawn, was meant to disparage the complainant, and therefore the prosecution proved its case against him.

NSA, SERVICE CHIEFS, NORTHERN GOVERNORS MEET BEHIND CLOSED DOORS OVER RISING INSECURITY

Receiving Foreign Support, Intelligence in Operation to Rescue Defence Headquarters DHQ), yesterday, said security forces were receiving foreign support and intelligence in the ongoing efforts to rescue hundreds of abducted school children in Kaduna.

It said security agencies would not rest until the kidnap victims were returned even as it attributed the delay in response time to the absence of timely information to the troops.

Speaking at a briefing in Abuja, the Director, Defence Media Operations (DDMO), Maj Gen Edward Buba, said security forces received intelligence support from international partners.

"Given the hostage situation, it can be deduced that the search and rescue effort was grossly affected by the none timely notification of troops of the incident. Nevertheless, I can assure you that we will not rest until these hostages are returned," he said.

He declared that troops would ensure that the kidnap victims were returned as their rescue remained top priority.

"I can further assure that getting these hostages back is very clearly on the top of our priorities. It is for this reason we have leveraged on our international partners for support.

"Accordingly, they are providing the necessary support including intelligence that is giving us the advantage in dealing with the ugly situation," he said.

Buba attributed the resort to mass kidnapping by terrorists as a result of the onslaught by troops, which forced the insurgents to attack soft targets.

"We made things difficult for them so they have gone for soft targets as part of their recruitment drive

"We will not rest until all of those hostages are returned. We have intelligence and support from our foreign partners but because it's an ongoing operation we will not provide further details," he said.

Buba further noted that, "terrorists have exhibited gross cowardice. We have taken out many of their commanders. They switch into soft targets to protect themselves. We will not rest until all these hostages return."

He also disclosed that the hostages were held in difficult locations.

"These hostages are being held in locations that are difficult to get to, but not out of reached. The situation is however indicative of the desperation of these terrorist to avoid troops onslaught by all means.

"Recall that in recent times troops have decimated several of the terrorist leaders, commander and foot soldiers. We are fast closing in one several others.

"These terrorist have exhibited cowardice by going for such soft targets to impede troops advances. I assure you that we will not rest until they are returned," he assured.

Remi Tinubu Seeks Stiffer Penalty for Kidnappers

The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has reiterated her call for stiffer penalties for kidnappers in the country.

Speaking yesterday while receiving in audience at the State House, Abuja, the Senators representing the three senatorial districts of Lagos State, the first lady appealed to the federal lawmakers to enact security-related laws to stem the tide of kidnapping across the country.

“We should look into the laws

we would bring up. On the issue of kidnapping, it is like we are in a war, a war against kidnapping and kidnappers.”

Mrs Tinubu, who also admonished Nigerians to help one another, said, “The administration of President Tinubu is resolute to leave a legacy for generations yet unborn. This takes a lot of sacrifice and courage.”

Earlier, leader of delegation and Senator representing Lagos East and Chairman, Southern Senators Forum, Adetokunbo Abiru, noted that the reforms of President Tinubu were on course to putting the nation on a solid footing of economic wellbeing and lasting prosperity.

He also assured the first lady that the senate would continue to look into people-centered legislation, especially in relation to the economy and security.

Abiru expressed optimism that the nation would soon be an economic haven.

Others on the visit were Senator representing Lagos Central, Wasiu Eshinlokun Sanni, who is also Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine Transport and Senator representing Lagos West, Oluranti Adebule, Chairman Senate Committee on Social Welfare and Poverty Alleviation.

Bandits Demand $620,000 to Release Hostages

Gunmen, who kidnapped 286 students and staff from a school in northern Nigeria last week have demanded a total of N1 billion ($620,432) for their release, a spokesman for the families of the hostages and a local councillor, has told Reuters.

The school children, some older students and members of the school staff were abducted on March 7 in the town of Kuriga, in Nigeria’s northwestern Kaduna State, in the first mass kidnapping in the country since 2021.

A community leader, Jubril Aminu, who acted as a spokesman for the families of the hostages, said he had received a call on his phone from the kidnappers on Tuesday.

“They made a total of a 1 billion (naira) ransom demand for all the pupils, students and staff of the school.

“They gave an ultimatum to pay the ransom within 20 days, effective from the date of the kidnap. They said they will kill all the students and the staff if the ransom demand is not met.”

An elected official from the Kuriga Ward municipal council, Idris Ibrahim, also confirmed the ransom demand and the amount.

“Yes, the kidnappers called the community through Jubril Aminu’s number and made the demand.

“They called from a hidden number but the authorities are working on getting the number,” Ibrahim told Reuters.

NSCDC: Efforts in Top Gear to Free Abducted Kaduna Students

Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr. Ahmed Audi, has said efforts are in top gear to get Kaduna abducted students released, insisting that with the collaborative efforts of all security agencies, there would be speedy recovery of the students.

The CG gave the assurance to the Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba

Sani, while on a visit to the state.

He said the 200 students and teachers of Government Secondary School and LEA Primary School in Kuriga Chikun LGA in Kaduna would be rescued from their abductors and brought home safely.

Audi condemned such act of sabotage describing it as very unfortunate and worrisome.

He assured the governor that efforts were in top gear as the security agencies were relentlessly working to effect the release of the students and their teachers.

“As a matter of concern, let me on behalf of the NSCDC management and personnel across the nation say that we are ready to work in collaboration with all relevant security agencies with full mechanisms and security apparatus put in place to see that the perpetrators of this heinous crime do not go scot free.

"The NSCDC remains a key actor in the nation's internal security and the lead agency in the Safe Schools Initiative,currently we are in strong synergy with the Nigerian Army, the Police and others for the quick and safe return of the abducted students," he said.

The NSCDC boss commended the governor for providing the necessary logistics for the state command to function effectively while also praying for the allocation of a befitting command permanent site and operational vehicles that would enhance the discharge of the corps' statutory mandate in safeguarding all critical national assets and infrastructure across the state.

Sani, in his response, lauded the good gesture exhibited by the CG and the effective collaboration of the corps with the Armed Forces, Nigeria Police, and the DSS amongst others.

He hinted that all critical stakeholders must play active roles to forestall criminalities and frustrate the evil men whose delight is to disrupt the peace and stability of the good people of Kaduna state.

Wike: FCTA to Acquire Drones to Survey Kidnappers, Bandits

The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has disclosed that the FCT Administration was considering purchasing some drones to monitor kidnappers and bandits operating from the states bordering the FCT. He stated this yesterday during a media chat monitored on national television.

The minister said he had already secured the approval of President Bola Tinubu to acquire the drones for security purpose.

“In fact, that is one of the approvals Mr President gave to us that we said 'look, we are going to purchase our own drones to help in surveillance and in operation, particularly within these boundaries that the topography is so bad, is so hilly, and where you have the forests'.

“And we have made sure that it is provided in the 2024 statutory budget. I briefed this to the National Assembly yesterday (Wednesday )and they were highly elated,” Wike said.

He decried the lack of tracking equipment for security agencies, particularly in FCT Commands of the Police and the Department of State Services.

Wike said the Police and DSS officers lacked tracking equipment and often had to visit the headquarters of their agencies to borrow the equipment for use in operations.

L-R: Winners of the She Empowers Her Award by SARA, Pastor Mary Kristilere; Mrs. Adebola Agunbiade; Managing Director/CEO Wema Bank,Mr. Moruf Oseni; Chairman, Wema Bank, Dr Oluwayemisi Olorunshola; and Winners of the She Empowers Her Award by SARA,Mrs. Debola Deji-Kurumi; and Adesunmbo Adeoye , at the Award presentation to mark the Wema Bank International Women’s Day 2024 celebration in Lagos... recently

PHILIP ASIODU AT 90...

L-R: Son of the Celebrant/CEO, Medife Consulting, Ifeanyi

Olubadan, Oba Lekan Balogun, Dies at 81, Governor Mourns

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

Monarch passes two years after ascending throne Makinde first Oyo gov to install two Olubadans since 1999 and achieved greatly within a short while.

The 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun, last night, passed on to glory, two years after ascending the throne. He was aged 81.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, who announced the passage, while mourning, said the monarch joined his ancestors late last night at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan.

Makinde described Oba Balogun as an epitome of royal excellence and a great achiever, who made great marks on Ibadanland in just a little over two years of his reign.

He expressed his condolences to the Olubadan-in-Council, the Oyo State Traditional Council and the people of Ibadanland and Oyo State, praying God to grant repose to the soul of the deceased monarch.

He said, “With total submission to the will of God, I announce the passing unto glory of our father, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Mohood Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland.

“A mighty Iroko has fallen; Oba Dr. Balogun has joined the ancestors.

“In Kabiyesi, Ibadanland had a cosmopolitan and well-experienced Olubadan, who made indelible marks on the sands of history

NIS

“On behalf of the government and good People of Oyo State, I condole with the immediate family of the Oba Dr. Balogun, the Olubadan-in-Council, the Oyo

State Traditional Council and the people of Ibadanland.

“It is my prayer that God grants repose to the soul of our late monarch.”

Balogun, who represented Oyo Central senatorial district between

1999 and 2003 on the platform of the Alliance for Democracy (AD), was born October 18, 1942 and was the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland. He had ascended the throne on March 11, 2022, after the demise of his predecessor, Oba Saliu Adetunji.

Adetunji, 93, had died January 2, 2022, after reigning from 4th March 2016. With its unique ascension system, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, Balogun Olubadan of Ibadan, who is top on the military line, will

be officially announced after 21 days of mourning, as Olubadan. Interestingly, too, and with this development, Makinde is going to be the first governor of Oyo State to install two Olubadans since the return to civil rule in 1999.

EFCC Increases Money Laundering Charge against Ali Bello, Another to 17

Mentions ex-gov Bello in amended charge

Alex Enumah in Abuja

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC),has increased the charge against Mr Ali Bello; a relation of former Kogi State Governor, Mr Yahaya Bello and one Dauda Suleiman from 10 to 17.

In the amended charge read against the two defendants, the former governor and two others said to be complicity in the alleged offences, the defendants were charged with, were said to be "at large".

Ali Bello, Chief of Staff to current Kogi State Governor, Mr Usman Ododo and his

CG Directs Immigration Officers to Adhere to Presidential Order, Reopen Borders with Niger

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nandap, has directed immigration officers across Nigeria’s borders with neighbouring Niger to ensure that they are reopened in line with the presidential order.

The directive was given yesterday in a signed statement by the spokesman of the NIS, Kenneth Kure.

It said: “Following the directive from the federal government to reopen borders between Nigeria and Niger Republic, the Comptroller General of Nigeria Immigration

Service, Kemi Nanna Nandap, has issued a directive to all comptrollers stationed at states and border commands along the Nigeria-Niger Republic border, to promptly ensure strict compliance and lift restrictions on human movements.

“The Nigeria Immigration Service assures the public of its unwavering dedication to facilitating safe and orderly border crossings while upholding the integrity and security of Nigeria's borders.”

Nigeria had closed its border with Niger in the wake of military coup d’état ousting the democratically elected president of the country, Mohammad Bazoum.

co-defendant are standing trial before Justice James Omotosho of a Federal High Court in Abuja, on a 10-count charge bordering on misappropriation and laundering of funds belonging to Kogi State.

As in the earlier charge, the defendants also pleaded not guilty to the whole 17 amended charge.

In the amended charge, the EFCC alleged that the defendants alongside others said to be "at large" diverted over N100 billion belonging to the state government.

The alleged offences according to the charge were committed in September 2015, before Bello assumed office as governor.

Before, the amended charge was read, the defendants through their lawyers objected to taking their pleas, on the grounds that the

amended charge was not endorsed by the judge in accordance with Section 218 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015.

Bello's lawyer, A.M. Aliyu, SAN, urged the court to decline the request that the charge be read against the defendants until the law is complied with.

This position was countered by prosecution lawyer, Mr Rotimi Oyedepo SAN, who urged the court to dismiss the submissions of the defendants on the grounds, that the court had on its own endorsed the amendment.

In a brief ruling, Justice Omotoso, who recalled that he had granted accelerated hearing in the matter because the court has not made any meaningful progress since the case was filed,

ordered that all forms of objections must be kept in abeyance till the address stage.

He then directed the Registrar of the Court to read the amended charge to the defendants.

In count one, the former governor, alongside the two defendants were accused of conspiring with each other in September, 2015 to convert over N80 million to their personal use.

The alleged offence contravened Section 18 (a) of the Money Laundering Prohibition Act, 2011, because they ought to have reasonably known that the money was a product of fraud and criminal breach of public trust.

In other charges, Alli Bello and Dauda Suleiman were alleged to

have concealed several millions of naira with one Rabiu Musa Tafada, a Bureau De Change operator trading under Global Venture in Abuja.

Shortly after the charge was read against the defendants, Aliyu orally applied to the court that one of the EFCC witnesses, Edward Banada, be recalled for fresh cross-examination in view of the contents of the amended charge.

The request was granted by Justice James Kolawole Omotoso due to no opposition from the EFCC lawyer.

Meanwhile, Justice Omotoso has ordered that Alli Bello and Dauda Suleman should continue to enjoy the bail conditions granted them in the previous charge.

Over 5 Retail Sector Players Jostle for Market Share in Edo

Over 5 Retail Sector Players Jostle for Market Share in Edo Edo State’s retail sector is experiencing a boom on account of reforms by the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration, which has eased up the process of setting up new businesses in the State.

A survey of the new entrants into the retail space shows that not less than five popular retail brands have opened shops or expanded operations in Edo State in the last three years, including Genesis Cinemas, Dominos, Market Square, JARA Stores, Reign Arcade, Ford Mart and Shoprite, which is due to commence operations in a matter

of weeks.

Some of the business reforms initiated by the government include setting up of the Edo State Investment Promotion Office, a one-stop shop that promotes ease of doing business in the State; the Edo State Geographic Information Service, which processes Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) in about 30 days; the Public Private Partnership (PPP) office and other private-sector facing agencies in the State.

A cross-section of residents in the State who spoke to journalists said the new entrants have redefined the retail experience in the State. An economist, policy analyst

and lecturer at the University of Benin, Mr. Nosakhare Ikponmwosa, said that the new investors are responding to the government’s reforms, which has made investment seamless.

According to him: “There has been a strong shift to attract private investors and it has increased competition in the economy. A lot of the old players are improving their services to measure up to the new entrants. So, the competition is healthy.

“Another implication of this is that a lot of local suppliers to these superstores have had to improve the packaging of their goods. The improved package ensures standards and also opens

these producers to more markets.”

A businessman, Mr. Darlington Osawe, said: “We are really excited by the new trend of popular retail stores coming into Edo State. The shopping experience has changed. We now have well-stocked shops, with local and international brands on display. It is a boost for the local economy and a testament to the growth being experienced in the State.”

Mrs. Ruth Igbinosa, a trader, on her part, noted that the expansion of the retail traders in the state is evidence that the market is viable and that a lot of local producers are meeting up to the new standards being set.

Asiodu; Daughter, Mrs. Medua Awani; Celebrant, Philip Asiodu; his wife, Jumoke Asiodu and daughter, Ms. Nneka Asiodu during the Golf Kitty in honour of the 90th Birthday Celebration of former Permanent Secretary and Secretary of Petroleum, Chief Philip Asiodu at the Ikoyi 1983 Golf Course in Lagos, yesterday   ABIODUN AJALA

COURTESY VISIT BY NETFLIX …

The Executive Director/ CEO, National Film and Video Censors Board,

Navy Arrests Three Suspects, Impounds Boat Carrying Fuel in A’Ibom

Okon Bassey in Uyo

The Nigerian Navy, Forward Operating Base (FOB), Ibaka in Mbo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, has arrested three suspects, conveying boat carrying 10,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in the state.

The Commanding Officer of the base, Navy Capt. Uche Aneke, handed over the suspects, the boat and PMS over to the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) in Ibaka yesterday.

Aneke said a patrol team of the Navy arrested the suspects on Monday, March 11 at about

Delta to Boost 20 Hospitals with N3bn Equipment

Omon-Julius OnabuinAsaba

Delta State Government has approved the sum about N3 billion for acquisition of 60 working equipment in 20 general hospitals across the state, saying it was to boost the state healthcare programme in line with the M.O.R.E development agenda of the Oborevwori administration.

In the same vein, the government also announced approval of N2 billion for compensation to property owners that would be affected by the ongoing construction of flyover bridges and roads in the Warri and Uvwie area in the state.

Intimating newsmen with

some outcomes of the State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at the Government House Asaba, yesterday, the State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza, said that the EXCO also approved Phase Two procurement of medical equipment for 20 general hospitals across the state.

He listed the hospitals to include general hospitals at Obiaruku, Abraka, Ekpan, Owa-Alero, Okwe, Koko, Orerokpe, Otu-Jeremi, Burutu, Abavo, Owa-Oyibu, Issele-Uku, Ibusa, Aviara, Onicha-Olona, Ofagbe, Aboh, Ashaka, Kiagbodo and Eku Baptist Government Hospital.

LASEPA, NPA Partner on Sustainable Environment

Funmi Ogundare

The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) would collaborate to achieve a cleaner and sustainable environment in the state that is pollution free.

The partnership is part of efforts to rid the state of pollution, emissions and other environmental infractions that might be injurious to human health and the ecosystem.

The NPA and the LASEPA agreed at a meeting that was

held yesterday at NPA’s office in Marina to strengthen collaborations to monitor and protect the environment.

The officials of LASEPA were led by its General Manager, Dr. Tunde Ajayi while Acting General Manager, Mr. Adekunle Adesona, who was represented by Principal Manager, Health, Safety and Environment, Mr. Emeka Uchendu, lead the NPA’s team..

Ajayi explained that the collaboration is essential to making the goal of a safe and sustainable environment possible in the state.

Sokoto Pays N1bn Counterpart Fund to Curb Encroachment

Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto

The Sokoto State Government has paid the sum of N1billion as counterpart funding for AgroChemical Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACRESAL) projects to curb desert encroachment.

The Governor of Sokoto State, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu, made this known at a stakeholders’ forum organised in Sokoto by the Ministry of Environment, Agriculture, and Water Resources, Sokoto State, in collaboration with World Bank.

Aliyu said that the state

government’s investment in environmental and water management has brought about desired change in the state.

He said: “Our past collaborations have impacted positively on target beneficiaries, and it is our hope that going forward, we can deepen access to portable water for drinking and irrigation has boost agricultural production especially in the rural areas.”

He stated that the aim of the project is to combat environmental degradation, provide food security and job opportunities for the teeming youths in the state.

2:30 a.m.

“Intelligence report indicated that a boat was conveying products to the Republic of Cameroon while transiting within the waters under FOB

Ibaka area of operation.

“The gunboats from the Base on routine night patrol were vectored to intercept and arrest three suspected carrying 10,000 litres of PMS concealed

under bags and covered with tarpaulin,” Aneke said. Aneke warned individuals and groups involves in the illegal business to desist or prepare to face the wrath of the law.

He also warned criminals to steer clear of Nigeria’s territorial waters, stressing that security agencies would not condone illegal activities in the country’s coastal areas.

Tax Default Suit: Abia, MOUAU Set for Out-of-Court Settlement

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

The legal battle between Abia State Government and the management of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike (MOUAU) over alleged

tax default would eventually be settled out of court, according the state Governor, Alex Otti. He made this known when he received the management of the federal government-owned ivory tower, which are on a working visit to the governor

at Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.

The immediate-past Abia State administration had dragged the institution to court through the State Internal Revenue Service over the alleged failure of MOUAU management to remit

the pay-as-you-earn (PAYE) taxes deducted from staff.

But Otti said his government was ready to withdraw the suit against the university to make way for out-of-court settlement of the case, which has been on since two years.

FCCPC Warns Nigerians against Ripening Fruits with Carbide

Francis Sardauna in Katsina

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), has warned Nigerians against consuming and ripening of fruits with calcium carbide. The North-west Zonal

Coordinator of the FCCPC, Mr. Abdulkarim Shehu, gave the warning yesterday while briefing journalists in Katsina as part of the commission’s activities to commemorate the World Consumer Rights Day (WCRD), which is being celebrated annually on

March 15. This year’s theme is “Fair and Responsible AI for Consumers.”

Shehu explained that fruits ripened with calcium carbide are poisonous and dangerous to human health.

He, therefore, warned that the commission would take legal

action against any individuals found using calcium carbide for fruit ripening in the country.

He said: “We are going to reinforce our task force team to go round the markets and if there is any product that violates the rights of consumers, we will withdraw it from the market.”

FG Brokers Peace Between NYCN Factions, Preaches Peace

Ndubuisi Francis inAbuja

The Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, has brokered peace between the two factions of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), with a charge on their leaders to foster peace, cooperation,

UNICEF Advocates

Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has stressed on the need for governments at all levels to increase budgetary allocation for children-focused interventions.

The UNICEF Social Policy

and progress.

The minister, who spoke during a peace parley in Abuja, which was held in his office, urged the leaders of the two factions, Sukubo SaraIgbe Sukubo and Akoshile Mukhtar, to put aside their differences aside and embrace peace so as to forge ahead in the interest of the teeming

youths of the country whom they represent.

A statement issued by the Head, Press and PR in the ministry, Maryam Yusuf, disclosed that while speaking to journalists after the peace talk, Olawande, who recognised the central role that the body has to play in promoting the

well-being of the youths, expressed joy over the decision of the factions to reconcile their disagreement and join hands to work towards a common goal.

He emphasised the need for all hands to be on deck to raise a new generation of purposeful and holistically developed youths.

Increased Budgetary Allocation for Children Focused Interventions

Specialist, Bauchi Field Office, Yusuf Auta, who stated this yesterday during a media dialogue on Child Poverty with the theme, “ Addressing child Poverty in Bauchi, Gombe and Adamawa States” held in Gombe, said that children are the majority population in most

states of the federation, hence their needs should be prioritised.

According to him, child poverty is when a child lacks access to basic consumption needs such as Nutrition, Shelter, education, healthcare, sanitation amongst others,.

He stated the 2022 Population

Projection states that Adamawa state has a population of 4.9 million, Bauchi has 8.3 million while Gombe State has a population of 3.9 million, adding that the population of children between 0-17 years in Adamawa is 2.4 million, Bauchi is 4.7 million while Gombe State has 2.1 million.

House Decries Poor Funding of Nigeria Maritime University, Okerenkoko, Delta

Sylvester Idowu

House of Representatives Committee on Maritime Safety, Education and Administration has decried the ‘underfunding’ of the Nigeria Maritime University (NMU), Okerenkoko in Gbaramatu kingdom in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State.

The Deputy Chairman of the committee and leader of delegation, Hon. Uduak Alphonsus Odudoh, expressed the concerns yesterday when he led the committee on an oversight function to the university.

He attributed the underfunding of the institution to failure to sign the bill on the establishment of the school to an act by the

immediate past administration in the country having been passed by the National Assembly.

Odudoh, however, assured Nigerians that the bill, which has passed the second reading in the National Assembly, would be signed into law to become an Act by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which will enable the university to enjoy proper funding

to meet its objectives. He commended Tompolo Foundation for making its facilities available for the initial take-off the Nigeria Maritime University and particularly expressed appreciation of its founder, Chief Government Ekpemupolo alias Tompolo, for his passion in seeing to the establishment of the institution.

NEPL/SEPLAT JV Kicks Off 2024 “Eye Can See” Programme in Edo

Adibe Emenyonu inBeninCity

The NEPL/Seplat Energy JV has kicked off the 2024 edition of its flagship Corporate Social Investment (CSI), “Eye Can See” initiative, in Benin City, Edo State.

The event, which took place at the Palace of the Oba of Benin, was designed to provide free optical treatment at all levels to members of the communities within NEPL/ SEPLAT operational communities. Specifically, the programme

is targeted at men, women and children with eye problems and aims to ensure the provision of free eye care, visual aid and surgical treatment for Cataract, as well as reduce cases of permanent loss of vision. The initiative also provideed free

reading glasses, treats other related eye problems, educates patients on ways to care for the eyes and how to detect Glaucoma and also educated patients on lifestyle changes required to reduce the rates of hypertension and diabetes.

Dr Shaibu Husseini (left), receiving a souvenir from Director of Public Policy, Sub-Saharan Africa, Netflix, Shola Sanni, during a courtesy visit by NetFlix team to Husseini in Abuja…recently

Customs Reopens Illela Border

Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto

Sequel to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s directive that Nigeria land border with Niger Republic should be reopened with immediate effect, the Customs Area Controller for Sokoto/ Zamfara Area Command, Comptroller Kamal Muhammed, yesterday announced the official opening of Illela Border for free movement of people

and commercial activities in compliance to the directive.

A statement by public relations officer of the command, Mr. Abdullahi Tsafe, said that the comptroller charged MDA’s and security agencies at the border station to collaborate in the area of trade facilitation, information and intelligence sharing for a safe, efficient and effective service delivery at the border.

He further explained that the Comptroller General of Customs, CG. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has lauded the customs license agents and the Illela community for their patience and cooperation during the seven months border closure.

He assured the general public of a renewed and better service delivery while calling on them to abide by the import and export extant laws.

WAP Announces Fresh Season of Akpan and Oduma Comedy Series

Sunday Okobi

Wale Adenuga Productions (WAP) has announced the commencement of a fresh season of Akpan and Oduma, one of the most-popular comedy skits in Nigeria, on television and YouTube as from March 18, 2024.

According to Wale Adenuga

Jnr., the producer of Akpan and Oduma, in a statement, “With over 180 million views on YouTube, our Akpan & Oduma Comedy Series has proven to be a huge hit among the youths, as well as other generations of Nigerian audience members. We have worked

relentlessly to go even bigger this time; hence, the storylines of this new season 9 are packed with lots of fresh surprises regarding the hilarious situations which the titular characters and their friends get involved with.”

“The award-winning Akpan & Oduma comedy skit series details the hysterical adventures of the two titular characters who have recently travelled from the village to the city in search of quick wealth.”

He said: This new season nine features several trending comedy content creators, including Mr. Macaroni, Motunde, Kiriku, Miz Gabbie (Flora 222), and others, as

well as the regular supporting characters-Chief Olododo, Sister Bridget, Patoski, Brother Shangalo, and Omonla.

New episodes of Akpan & Oduma premiere every Monday on wapTVs YouTube platform ‘waptvchannel’, and air on television at 9:00 to 9:15am and 9:00 to 9:15pm on Mondays to Thursdays on wapTVs extensive network of DStv 262, StarTimes 116, GOtv 129, FreeTV 751, and PlayTV 275, as well as on the recently-launched wapTV Mobile App available for free on Apples iOS App Store and Androids Google Play Store.

NURTW Urges Tinubu to Prevail on Yasin-led Group to Vacate Secretariat, Obey Court Order

Folalumi

Alaran in Abuja

The National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Inspector General of Police (IG), Kayode Egbetokun, and the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, to prevail on the former President of the union, Najeem Usman Yasin, to vacate the union’s national secretariat in line with the order of the court, to avoid breakdown of law and order. The current President of the union, Alhaji Tajudeen Ibikunle

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as OMOTAYO KAYODE BABAJIDE ABDULAZEEZ, now wish to be known and address as OMOTAYO KAYODE BABAJIDE. All former documents remain valid. The general public please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as NGOZI ELIZABETH OHIAGU, now wish to be known and address as NGOZI ELIZABETH OHIAGU-ANANABA. All former documents remain valid. The general public please take

I formerly known and addressed as CHIKEZIE TEDDY OHIAGU, now wish to be known and address as CHIKEZIE TEDDY OHIAGU-ANANABA. All former documents remain valid. The general public please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as CHISOM AUDREY OHIAGU, now wish to be known and address as CHISOM AUDREY OHIAGU-ANANABA. All former documents remain valid. The general public please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as CHIDIYA OBIOMA ENYINNAYA OHIAGU, now wish to be known and address as CHIDIYA OBIOMA ENYINNAYA OHIAGU-ANANABA. All former documents remain valid. The general public please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as MEGBOLU CHRISTIANA NGOZI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OKWUOSA CHRISTIANA NGOZI. All former documents remain valid, the general public should please take note.

Baruwa, stated this yesterday in Abuja at a press conference addressed by his lawyer, Tolu Babaleye, on the judgment of the National Industrial Court delivered on March 11, 2024, by Justice O.O Oyewumi, which affirmed Baruwa as the validly elected president for the union for a second term.

He described the statement made by Yasin in a viral video as contemptuous and affront to the court where he made a derogatory statement in an attempt to downplay the authority of the court that “the judgment of the court amounted to nothing and

I, JIMOH OLATUNJI SAUBANA, am the same person as captured in some of my documents and bank details as JIMOH SAUBANA. Henceforth, I wish to be known and addresses as JIMOH OLATUNJI SAUBANA. All former documents remain valid. Military Pension Board and the general public and should take note.

I formerly known and addressed as DILLIBE CHRISTINA OGECHI, now wish to be known and address as OBIWURU CHRISTIANA OGECHI. All former documents remain valid. The general public please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as MRS AIGBEVOBILE IKHAZUANGBE VERONICA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ROBERTSON IKHAZUANGBE VERONICA. All former documents remain valid, the general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as MISS BLESSING NWAKANMA CHIAMAKAH, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS EBUNDON BLESSING CHIAMAKAH. All former documents remain valid, the general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as MISS UJU EMMANUELLA UCHECHI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS NWACHUKWU EMMANUELLA UCHECHI. All former documents remain valid, the general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as MISS OGBONNE UDY AJIKE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OGBONNE OYIDIYA MBAH. All former documents remain valid, the general public should please take note.

that they have resolved to install one Musiliu Ayinde Akinsanya (aka MC Oluomo) as the national president of the union and also install one Mustapha Adekunle as the Lagos State chairman.

According to his lawyer, “We are aware of a video on social media where Alhaji Najeem Yasin gathered some people telling them that there is nothing the court can do.

“I want to sound a note of warning that Najeem Yasin should be aware that there is a court order restraining him from interfering in the affairs of the union.

Glo Launches Korrect Predict Lottery Service

Telecommunications services provider, Globacom, has launched Glo Korrect Predict Lottery Service, a football prediction service that will reward all sports lovers on the network with fantastic cash prizes and airtime anytime they successfully predict the final outcomes of football matches played across the world.

The network noted in a statement that the Sports Prediction Market has witnessed significant growth over the years, with a projected value of over $155 billion globally by 2024, and that the growth is driven by the proliferation of smartphones, increase in online betting platforms, as well as increased sports viewership and adoption of technology.

Globacom disclosed that this trend precipitated the launch of Korrect Predict which is a prediction service that offers subscribers a chance to win cash gifts from predicting match results accurately.

“Subscribers will receive two football matches daily for them to predict the correct scores after which those who accurately predict the outcomes of their preferred matches will win amazing prizes, including cash and airtime, from Glo,” the statement read.

Edited by: MJO Mustapha Email deji.mustapha@thisdaylive.com

Being Shaped by Ramadan WORLD OF ISLAM

Khalid Mahmood/IslamiCity

At this time when we experience occasions, of much sorrow and some contentment, we sense the promise in the advent of Ramadan, the month of mercy and forgiveness. In the climate of this month of light, we feel both spring and autumn at the same time in our inner worlds, seasons of lovely expectations and longing.

With their profound, spiritual breezes, every sound and breath of air in Ramadan announces in a most exalted and exhilarating style all the pleasures we would like to taste in life and the hopes of good we deeply cherish.

Coming like successive rays of light, the smiling days of Ramadan envelop us with the expectations, hopes and joys they carry from the worlds beyond, and present to us samples from Paradise.

When Ramadan begins, our inner life, its thoughts and feelings, is renewed and strengthened. Breezes of mercy, coming in different wavelengths, unite with our hopes and expectations, and penetrate our hearts. In the enchanting days and illumined nights of Ramadan, we feel as if all the obstacles blocking our way to God are removed and the hills on that way are leveled.

Like rain pouring on the earth, Ramadan comes with streams of meanings and emotions that water dried and thirsty hearts, making the inner worlds of people propitious for new meanings and conceptions. By means of the light of the days, hours and minutes of this blessed month, hearts attain such spiritual depth and become so purified that they never desire to leave its climate of peace.

As Ramadan approaches, we live the delight of anticipation and preparation for it. The food and drink that come into our kitchens in the days before it comes, put us in mind of it with a thrill of expectation. And then it comes at last, laden with mercy and forgiveness. As soon as it honors us, each of us finds himself in a spiral of light rising toward the heavens and advances toward the Unknown Existent One in a new spiritual mood in the night-time and in another, different spiritual mood in daytime. We open our eyes to each of its days with a different solemnity and self-possession and reach every evening in an enchanting, delightful serenity.

The pleasant nights of Ramadan receive warmest welcome from all souls. Eyes look more deeply in them and people feel deeper love for each other. Everyone desires to do good to everyone and passions and ill-feeling are subjugated to a certain extent. In Ramadan everyone feels so much more attached to God and is so careful in his relations with others that it is impossible not to see this.

Believing souls taste the contentment of belief more deeply and experience the blessing of the good morals prescribed by Islam and the spiritual ease of doing good to others. Moreover, they try to expand, to share, this contentment, blessing and ease with others. Since these souls at rest are convinced that one day will come when this life will end in an eternal happiness and whatever they suffer and sacrifice here for God’s sake will be returned with very great reward, they struggle against their animal appetites in a mood of doing an act of worship. The meals they take at sunset to break the fast give them the pleasure of worship and are followed by early night prayer with the addition of the supererogatory service of worship particular to Ramadan. The meals they take before dawn to start fasting are united with supererogatory night prayer (tahajjud) and become a dimension of their nearness to God. Streets are filled with the people going to and returning from mosques, in which declarations of ‘God is the Greatest’ resound as in the Masjid al-Haram in Makkah. You would think that the streets are each a mosque and each mosque is Ka’bba. The people shaped by Ramadan in this way, though mortal in nature, gain a sort of eternity and each of their acts done in the consciousness of deliberate worship becomes a ceremony pertaining to the Hereafter. Nights are experienced more deeply and in consideration of the afterlife, and days are spent as portions of time dominated by resolution and strong will-power. Those fasting for God’s sake feel a thrill of joy and spend every and each day in the excitement of a new re-union. They reach every morning in an indescribable feeling as if they were called to a new testing. You can discern on their faces a sign of humility mixed

with solemnity, a feeling of nothingness before God together with serenity and seriousness and melancholy combined with a feeling of security. Their every act reflects spiritual peace and exhilaration coming from adherence to God’s will and confidence in Him, and sincerity and kindness acquired by being cleansed in the cascades of the Qur’an. As if created from light and consisting in only their shadows, they are very careful to give no one any harm or trouble. Respect and courtesy are so much a part of their nature that, even after a day of thirst and hunger and resisting their carnal desires, they remain gentle and pure-hearted. They display a mood shaped by fear and reverence, discipline and contentment, solemnity and politeness. They are respectful and reverent toward the Almighty and well-mannered and sincere toward one another.

Their faces and eyes reflect different degrees and dimensions of depth of spiritual realms and are radiant with the lights of the unseen world. Though each individual may have been shaped by a different climate and different ideas,-all of them, including the intelligent and pure-hearted, those used to a disciplined, careful life and those a bit untidy and careless, the nervous and the calm, those very sensitive to problems of the age and those a little unfeeling, the rich and the poor, the happy and sorrowful, the healthy and the ill, the white and black-share almost the same feelings in Ramadan. They reach the night and morning together, listen to the call to prayers and perform the prayers together, take the meals before dawn and break their fasts together. They feel together one of the two instances of rejoicing promised for those who fast [The Prophet said: There are two instances of rejoicing for one who fasts: one when he breaks his fast, the other when he will receive the reward of fasting in the Hereafter.]

All Muslims, whatever their nationality or country of origin or temperament or social status or physical state, come together and breathe the same ‘air’ in the climate of Ramadan. In it, their souls are shaped in a way particular to that climate, and they share a sort of deeply felt happiness which can be experienced only by spirit beings. Ramadan has a fascinating effect on Muslims that leaves its positive imprints on even the souls of the poorest and most oppressed people.

Ramadan envelops us with many beauties: the pleasure in the supererogatory prayers performed after the prescribed night service; consciousness of the blessings of Ramadan; the light that pours on us both from the heaven and from the lights that decorate the mosques; the nearness of the Creative Power and Its message of compassion and forgiveness whispered in our hearts. As if planned and commanded in order to kindle such feelings and thoughts in us, each element of the public rites in Ramadan causes the ‘strings’ of our heats to resonate: the calls made from minarets and the blessings called on the Prophet, upon him be peace and blessings, and the pronouncements of Divine Unity, Grandeur and Glory which resound in our ears, all prepare our souls for worship. They awake us to spiritual and celestial truths and enable even the crudest soul to perform its duties of worship in the way those duties are meant to be performed.

The voices rising from minarets meet with the voices of the inhabitants of the heavens and resound throughout the heavens and the earth. They penetrate our souls and take us through a climate of purest meanings and poetry, a realm of sweet imagination. In this pleasant atmosphere, we feel as if it is Ramadan which pours from the heavens, which is discerned on the faces of people and scents the air and is written in the lights of the mosques.

Enchanted by this calm and peaceful atmosphere, we achieve a sort of infinitude and feel as if comprehending the whole of existence. Ramadan captivates particularly those open to eternity to such an extent that they experience nothing else than it.

I remember well that during my childhood when there was as yet no electricity in cities, people walked to mosques with kerosene lamps in the darkness of night. We imagined that Ramadan was walking around in the alleys in the lights of those lamps. Under the influence of poetry, meaning and deep spirituality which Ramadan poured into our souls, we desired that it should never come to an end. Nevertheless, despite our heartfelt desire, it flew away and the festive day followed it with all its pomp.

Amuneke Tipped to Emerge as New Super Eagles Head Coach

Femi Solaja with agency report

Former Nigerian international, Emmanuel Amuneke, has been tipped to step into the Super Eagles

job vacated by Portuguese gaffer Jose Peseiro.

The former FC Barcelona winger is believed to top the list of coaches the Technical Committee of the Nigeria

French Embassy Calls for End to Disparity in Prize Money for Male, Female Athletes

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

Embassy of France in Nigeria has commenced the sensitisation of Nigerians towards both the Olympic and Paralympic Games it is hosting in Paris this summer.

Speaking on the Games, the Chargé d'Affaires of France to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Jean Francois Hasperue, also called for an end in disparity between prize money to both male and female athletes.

The envoy spoke at the launch of Digital Exhibition Celebrating Women in Sport sponsored by the Embassy titled "Sport and Women's Bodies," a celebration of the profound connection between sport and the female body.

The event showcased the creative talents of two young Nigerian digital artists, Ms. Tiolu Yoloye and Mr. Babalola Oluwafemi.

The Chargé d'Affaires said: “One of the challenges women face in sport is the emphasis on appearance rather than performance. This scourge puts mental pressure on female athletes, but it also distracts them from their exceptional skills and dedication.”

He continued: “We must recognise the diversity of bodies and shapes, appreciate their unique strengths, and promote a more inclusive definition of the vehicle and working tool that is the athlete's body. Every body is unique and it is the abilities and performances of these athletes that

should arouse our admiration.

“The relationship between sport and women's bodies is also evident in issues related to equality and opportunity. Despite significant progress, female athletes still face inequalities in pay, sponsorship, and media coverage.

“Through our network of Embassies around the world, this is a subject that is close to our hearts, and which is part of French feminist diplomacy. We will broadcast a documentary on this subject on March 26 at the French Institute.

“Reducing these disparities is not only a matter of justice, but also a crucial step towards creating an environment in which women can fully realise their potential in the world of sport.”

He asked: “Let's celebrate their achievements, not only as athletes, but also as individuals who defy expectations and inspire future generations. The examples are numerous: Serena Williams, Laure Manaudou or Simone Biles, but also our Nigerian champions Tobi Amusan, Ejike Lucy or even Super Falcons on their way to the Olympics.

“Then, today this exhibition celebrates the strength, resilience and determination that define female athletes in various disciplines. It is a testament to the unwavering spirit of those who challenge stereotypes, break records and pave the way for future generations.

Abdullahi Re-elected as President of Nigeria Archery Federation

Mohammed Baba Abdullahi has been re-elected as President of the Nigeria Archery Federation. He is to pilot the affairs of the Federation for the next four years.

The election climaxed the 2024 NAFED Elective Congress held on March 2, 2024 in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

Abdullahi was elected with 16 votes. His challenger for the top job, Mr. Emmanuel Oyeleke got only 1 vote. Engr. Augustine Chigbolu emerged as the 1st Vice President with 16 votes. He defeated Mr. Kachollom Enyenihi who scored only 1 vote.

Other elected Exco board members include; 2nd Vice President, Mr. Oladipo Ogundele who pulled 17 votes to defeat DSP Akogun A.A. Mr. Philip Olupomile emerged

New

Year

as the new Secretary General with 17 votes to displace the former Secretary, Mr. Olugbenga Boluji who pulled no vote.

Goodman Akwu Umar was elected as Assistant Secretary while Mr. Patrick Ibeh was re-elected as the Public Relations Officer. Mr Rabiu Mohammed was voted unopposed as treasurer.

Other new members of the board include; Mr. Aliyu Abubakar Garga( Athletes rep); Alh. Ibrahim Adamu ( NorthWest rep); DCP Hassan Gwani (North East rep), HRH. Dr. David Tukur; Mr. Andy Gabriel ( North Central rep); HRM. Asibelua Ugo JP (South South rep); Oladipo Ogunleye ( South West rep); Dr.Ogbonna Onyeisi; Dr. Jerry Onuegbu and MS Stella (South East rep).

Football Federation (NFF) examined their resumes during their meeting in Abuja yesterday.

Although the committee’s duty ends at recommending to the execu-

tive committee of the federation, the Ibrahim Gusau led board has the final say on who takes over the Super Eagles top position.

According to SCORENigeria, “This

is a chance to give Amuneke a decent chance with the national team.

“Yes, he has been assistant coach at least twice, but now is the time to give him the team.”

Top officials of the NFF contacted last night declined to speak on the committee report, stressing that “we all wait for a formal announcement from the federation.”

Amuneke who also won various honours with Egyptian giants Zamalek, Sporting Lisbon as well as Barcelona, qualified the Taifa Stars of Tanzania to the 2019 AFCON, 39 long years since their last appearance in the tournament proper. He has previously worked in Sudan, Zambia and Egypt as well.

The 53-year-old former Eagles player led Nigeria to win a record fifth FIFA U17 World Cup in Chile in 2015 with Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze and Kelechi Nwakali the standout players at that competition.

As a player, he was named CAF Player of the Year in 1994, won an historic Olympic football Gold in 1996 and his double handed Nigeria the 1994 AFCON at the expense of Zambia.

He has worked on the technical study group of both FIFA and CAF in recent times.

Enyimba coach Finidi George is the other candidate who also scored high in the technical committee report. The former Eagles player assisted Peseiro at the recent AFCON in Cote d’Ivoire.

Like Amuneke, Finidi enjoyed a decorated career in Europe with the likes of Ajax, Real Mallorca and Real Betis.

His biggest claim to the top position is that he will bring continuity to the Super Eagles having worked closely with the team until the 2023 AFCON final last month.

Daniel Amokachi, Sunday Oliseh, Salisu Yusuf, Samson Siasia are some of the other coaches who also applied to lead the Super Eagles.

Champions League: Heavyweight Quarter final Fixtures Loom

Today's UEFA Champions League quarterfinal draw is set to throw up a series of heavyweight ties after a midweek in which penalty shootout drama really brought Europe's elite club competition to life.

Goalkeeper Jan Oblak's heroics in Atletico Madrid's shootout win over last season's runners-up Inter Milan on Wednesday – after the Spanish club came from behind in their last-16 tie – followed Arsenal's triumph on penalties against Porto a day earlier.

Tuesday also saw Barcelona deliver a rousing performance to see off Napoli and make it through to the quarterfinals for the first time since their 8-2 annihilation at the hands of Bayern Munich in 2020 in Lisbon, at the height of the Covid crisis.

With record 14-time champions Real Madrid already having secured their last-eight berth, three Spanish clubs will be represented in the draw.

They are joined by two English sides in Arsenal and holders Manchester City, as well as the

Mega Lottery Unveiled

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Nationwide League One (NLO), yesterday announced New Year Mega Lottery (NYML)one of Nigeria's lottery companies as the NLO official title sponsor.

The announcement was made at a special signing and unveiling ceremony held in Abuja.

The sponsorship deal between New Year Mega Lottery and NLO

is a four-year agreement worth N964 million. The collaboration between the NLO and New Year Mega Lottery is intended to effectively promote and elevate the status of grassroots football in the country, aiming to establish it as a prominent Nigerian spectacle and one of the most flourishing and appealing leagues on the continent.

The Head of Corporate Com-

EUROPA LEAGUE

Rangers 0-1 Benfica (2-3 agg)

S’Prague 1-3 AC Milan (3-7 agg)

Villarreal 3-1 Marseille (3-5 agg)

West Ham 5-0 Freiburg (5-1 agg)

dad and Bayern ultimately brushed aside Lazio despite losing the first leg away.

last eight this time, suggesting there is still a real degree of variety and unpredictability to the competition.

Logos of all the eight teams in the draw today for the quarter final fixtures of the UEFA Champions League German duo of Bayern and Borussia Dortmund, and French giants Paris Saint-Germain.

The surprise is that none of Italy's representatives reached the next stage, a year after Inter pushed City close in the final having eliminated neighbours AC Milan in the last four.

Only three of last season's quarterfinalists – City, Real and Bayern – have made it back to the

Yet the recent last-16 ties also more than hinted at the ever-growing polarisation at the very top of European football.

FC Copenhagen could never really compete with Pep Guardiola's City, while getting the better of PSG proved a step too far for Real Socie-

as Nationwide League Title Sponsor

munications, New Year Mega Lottery, Ms Obiorah Emmanuel, said they were thrilled to enter into the sponsorship with NLO and engage a large audience through their brand.

"Through the collaboration, we are really so excited to connect with the future generation of footballers at the grassroots level across Nigeria and help them grow. The company's strong

commitment to nurturing and empowering talents, fostering opportunities and gratifying fans within its market are among the primary motivations for aligning with the NLO," Emmanuel said.

The NLO Chairman, Hon Silas Agara, commended New Year Mega Lottery for coming on board as the title sponsor.

“On behalf of the board members and stakeholders of

the NLO, l wish to officially welcome you to join us. We are truly delighted to have New Year Mega Lottery come on board as our title sponsor," Agara, the former deputy governor of Nasarawa State said, adding the sponsorship recognised NLO not just as a football body but also as also acknowledged their position as the league with biggest football talent base in Africa.

Only the mega-rich can now aspire to winning the Champions League, with four of the quarterfinalists posting revenue last season of over 800 million euros ($874m) according to this year's Deloitte Football Money League. Going by Deloitte's ranking, all eight quarterfinalists were in the top 15 clubs in the world last season in terms of income – Atletico had the lowest at just over 364 million euros.

Diego Simeone's side were the only team to win against a richer club in the last 16, and even then Inter generated only marginally more money last season.

The current format of the Champions League has been in place for two decades and will be changed for next season, when UEFA will revolutionise its flagship tournament by replacing the group stage with a league phase featuring 36 clubs, up from 32 now.

Clubs will play eight games in the league phase, instead of six in the old group stage, all against different opponents in what is known as the "Swiss system".

Emmanuel Amuneke...tipped to take over from Peseiro

Lawmakers to CBN, Other Banks

“Urge the CBN to direct banks to work on their systems in mitigating failed transactions and immediately reverse failed transactions without the customer’s prompting. Also urge the CBN to direct banks to reverse customers’ funds within the stipulated periods whether or not the customers lodge complaints” –House of Representatives, urges the CBN to direct commercial banks on prompt reversal of failed transactions.

OPEYEMIBAMIDELE GUEST COLUMNIST

The Dawn of a New Order

It is exactly 275 days today since the 10th Senate came into force. And it has been a period of active law-making, constituency engagement and strategic interventions amid socio-economic and political pressures in which our nation is enmeshed. Yet, we all recognise the place of collaboration in our response to issues of vital national interests.

As an assembly of nationalists, patriots and progressives under the leadership of His Excellency, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, CON, the 10th Senate has been strategically collaborating with key public institutions, especially the Presidency, to defend our national interest; ensure economic stability; promote social cohesion and foster unity among ethnic nationalities that constitute Nigeria.

This has become highly imperative at the time the regressive forces are working against our collective interests as a federation of over 227 million people. Their invisible hands are not just ominous, but also devastative to our collective interests as a nation. They all constitute the triggers of prevailing internal crises - economic doldrums, insecurity, food crisis, fiscal instability and socio-political disharmony - that are now undermining the livelihoods of our compatriots nationwide. They equally threaten the vision of our founding fathers to build a virile federation that would serve the interests of all.

As complicated as these challenges are, the Senate remains resolute and undaunted, indeed methodical and pragmatic in our multi-pronged approach to restoring order to the economy, stability to the polity, prosperity to the people and confidence to the global interests that seek strategic partnership with us. This has been our preoccupation since the take-off of the 10th National Assembly on June 13, 2023.

This is evident in our diverse engagements with service chiefs to further guarantee security of lives and assets nationwide. Our inquiries into the regressive dynamics that plague our economy no doubt spurred stability in the fiscal space and largely restored investors’ confidence. Our prompt responses to diverse requests of national significance further deepened our pragmatic approach to the enactment of different legislations that redefine our governance frameworks.

Between June 13, 2023 and December 31, 2023 alone, for instance, at least 338 bills were initiated in response to our quest for economic progress, internal cohesion and national greatness. Of this figure, 10 bills were fully passed into laws; 11 currently at the stage of committee; 179 awaiting second reading and 135 are yet to be laid before the committee of the whole for consideration and deliberation.

Critics have even called us to questions for enacting only 10 laws within the timeframe.

Agreed, we could do much better especially at a time when critical legislative interventions are required to jumpstart our economy and stabilise our polity. Nevertheless, we should bear in mind that 2023 was the first year of the Government of Renewed Hope. And the Senate, indeed the National Assembly, was preoccupied with diverse requests of vital national interests from the Presidency and other public institutions.

Besides the bills we have worked on or are still working on, the Senate entertained 90 motions. Each of these motions directly addressed the roots of highly critical issues that threatened the future of our fatherland. As well, we treated 21 petitions from different quarters; screened 123 nominees for different strategic national offices and provided diverse interventions at the time our economy was in doldrums; national security under threats and internal cohesion almost disintegrating.

With sustained collaboration with key public institutions, our interventions are already yielding optimal outcomes. We are winning the fight against bandits, kidnappers and terrorists, though mountainous and tedious. We are equally reversing negative tendencies that plague our economy and polity. We are gradually reuniting our brothers and sisters across the Niger and reinventing a glorious future that we all aspire and desire. And this aspiration will surely come to fruition definitely in our lifetime.

But can these interventions alone guarantee a future we all crave for? We obviously do not need a soothsayer to tell us the limit of our initiatives and the exigency of providing pragmatic antidotes to our collective challenges. What we have been doing since the inception of the Senate was

tailored at rebuilding trust in governments; reinventing a polity that fosters peaceful co-existence nationwide and stabilising our economy that enables collective prosperity.

We are now forging ahead to another phase in our quest for a federation that serves the interests of all. That justifies a 45-man Constitution Review Committee that the Senate inaugurated on February 14, 2024 to review the grundnorm that governs our federation and work out a more efficient structure that can exponentially speed up our economic growth and redress all divisive tendencies that undermine our federation.

The review committee is chaired by His Excellency, Deputy President of the Senate, Senator J Barau Jibrin, CON. Among others, its core goals are to tinker with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 and redesign our security architecture with a view to making it more efficient, more functional and more result-oriented in response to our security needs. They are consistent with the 2023 Revised Legislative Agenda of the Senate, which will soon be adopted in the interest of our fatherland.

Critics have however opposed our interventions on diverse grounds. Some believe the review committee is a ritual in every National Assembly. Many also question the capacity of the National Assembly to produce a new constitution that bears no vestige of militarism. Others even claim that it is a sheer waste of hard-earned public funds for the National Assembly to undertake another review of our grundnorm.

We note the concerns of our critics, mainly the opposition, with a sense of duty. And this duty is founded on a conviction that the task of nation-building is not just collective, but should also be constructive in the way we engage. This conviction remains the key driver of the review of the 1999 Constitution and not the assumption of the critics. It is not another ritual nor a waste of public funds. Rather, it was born out of the need of crafting a new socio-economic and political order that promotes efficiency and spurs accountability.

This conviction is consistent with the power of the National Assembly under Section 4(1-2) of the Constitution. Under this section, the National Assembly is not just the parliament of the federal government authorised to enact laws for the purpose of federal governance. It is also the sovereign parliament of the Federal Republic of Nigeria vested with the power “to make laws for the peace, order and good government of the Federation or any part thereof…”

By implication, the resolve of the National Assembly to review the 1999 Constitution contravenes public assumptions. However, it is driven by the armed attacks on villages on the Plateau; the violent killing of traditional rulers in Ekiti and Kwara; the unlawful occupation of farm settlements in the Benue

Basin, the abduction of pupils in different parts of the federation, the shadow enterprise of kidnapping nationwide and the waning capacity of the Nigeria Police to guarantee a functional public order.

This drive is also spurred by our quest for a new framework for effective economic governance that will reflect the character and strength of our federation. And our intention revolves around recalibrating our federal governance structure and making all its federating units constitutionally responsible, economically viable, fiscally independent and globally competitive. This is our dream and not all those assumptions flying around in the public space.

As our records have shown, the federation we are currently running is not what our founding fathers envisioned and operated before the coming of khaki men. No, it is not a federation we all bargain and crave for; neither is it the Nigeria our founding fathers handed over to the generations before us. It is not definitely the Nigeria of our dream.

In this generation, our dream is not what we witness daily. Rather, it is a nation where peace perpetually reigns, a nation where our economy grows unfettered, a nation where social cohesion is an order and a nation where politics is a tool for socio-economic transformation. And as an institution, we shall not allow criminals to derail our lofty dream.

The time is now to stamp out banditry, criminality and terrorism from our space. The time is now to spur investors and accelerate growth that will catapult into a glorious future we all desire. The time is now to raise an army of patriots and , who treasure our peace; who leverage our diversity for national growth and who handsomely prize our collective interests far above their parochial and pecuniary rewards.

All of these occupy a prime place in our quest for review of the 1999 Constitution. And we shall be open to different ideas on how to restore order and promote human dignity. We shall also debate the possibility of reinventing our federal governance structure for the purpose of introducing a functional order that guarantees accountability and probity, efficiency and optimality, progress and sustainability.

Finally, more than ever before, this is also the time to reassess ourselves as true representatives of the people and carry ourselves like true patriots and nationalists rather than playing to the gallery and engaging in divisive activities and heroism. Any act short of portraying any of us as a true senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria shall be sanctioned by our collective resolve, and that starts from today.

•Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, CON is Leader of the 10th Senate and writes from Abuja

Akpabio