THURSDAY 23TH MAY 2024

In New Regulatory Intervention, CBN Orders BDCs to Reapply for Operating Licences

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British PM Sunak Announces UK General Election for July, Earlier Than Expected

Tinubu: Africa Must Set Up Regional Standby Forces against Coup, Terrorism, Extremism

APC WOMEN LEADERS VISIT GANDUJE ON RENEWED HOPE AGENDA...

L-R: Wife of the Senate President, Ekaette Akpabio; All Progressives Congress (APC) Women Leader, Dr. Mary Alile; Deputy Chairman, Renewed Hope Agenda/Wife of the Vice President, Nana Shettima; Chairman, APC, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje; and APC Deputy National Woman Leader, Zainab Ibrahim, during a visit by the wives of APC officials to the party chairman on the Renewed Hope Agenda at APC National Secretariat in Abuja ... yesterday

REA Seals 250MW Deal with Husk Energy to Deliver Sustainable Electricity to Underserved Communities

Peter Uzoho

The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) yesterday signed a groundbreaking partnership with Husk Energy, a global leader in decentralised renewable energy systems to deliver 250 megawatts (MW) sustainable energy to millions of underserved rural communities in Nigeria.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed between the two entities in Lagos, yesterday on the sidelines of the ongoing Energy Access Investment Forum (EAIF) marked a significant milestone in the country's journey towards universal energy access and sustainable development.

The partnership between the two entities was aimed to establish a long-term strategic relationship that sets a global benchmark for scaling the deployment of decentralised solar power projects, otherwise known as minigrids in Nigeria.

These projects, according to the document made available to THISDAY, were designed to electrify peri-urban and rural communities, including markets, businesses, households, public institutions, health clinics, and schools, in both weak grid and off-grid areas.

Commenting on the partnership, Managing Director of REA, Mr. Abba Aliyu, said, "This MoU signifies a major leap forward in our vision for creating a network of RESCOs

that can deliver clean and reliable electricity to even the most remote corners of Nigeria.

"Partnering with a proven leader like Husk Power positions us to not only achieve our ambitious deployment goals but also establish a model that can inspire others around the world."

He added that the strategic collaboration marked a significant step forward in REA's ambition to create utility-scale renewable energy service companies (RESCOs).

He noted that by leveraging the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale Up (DARES) project as a catalyst, the agency aimed to transform conventional project developers into service-oriented entities capable of constructing resilient infrastructure and delivering energy services on a large scale.

Aliyu, maintained that the strategic partnership with Husk Power signalled REA's commitment to empowering companies to develop a diverse portfolio of mini-grid projects nationwide under the RESCO ethos, thereby significantly advancing the agency's mission of achieving universal energy access in Nigeria.

"The partnership focuses on the deployment of up to 250MW of Interconnected Minigrids (IMGs), specifically targeting peri-urban and rural communities – including markets, businesses, households, public institutions, health clinics, and schools.

"These IMGs will address the critical need for reliable and affordable electricity in both weak-grid and off-grid areas, aligning perfectly with the “renewable energy scale up” theme of the REA's DARES project, supported by the World Bank", he added.

In his remarks, Husk Power Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Manoj Sinha, said, "We are incredibly honored to partner with

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has signed into law the 2024 revised supplementary budget of N404 billion with an increase of 22 percent.

Speaking during the signing of the budget at the Government House, Benin City, Obaseki, was quoted in a statement yesterday, to have explained that the revised budget became necessary following the inflationary trend in the economy as the adjustments have to reflect new realities.

According to him, “I have signed into law the revised supplementary budget for Edo State. We have to amend the 2024 Appropriation Act which was passed late last year because of developments that have occurred in the economy in the first five months of the year.

“We have to increase our budget

by about 22 percent, to about N404 billion from the earlier projected figures. The reason we had to do this is because from the first quarter of this year, we saw a 100 percent budget performance for that period.

“Also, because of the inflationary trend in the economy, we have had to adjust our capital budget to reflect the new trend we are seeing. We also had to make a decision on the minimum wage which has financial implications. We didn't anticipate that in the earlier appropriation law which we have had to amend.”

He added, “We expect that even with the revised and supplementary appropriation bill, we will meet the target which is N404 billion, which is now the proposed budget for the year. What is important to note is that we are still spending more on capital than recurrent expenditure.”

the REA on this groundbreaking initiative. The combination of REA's commitment and Husk Power's expertise creates a powerful force for positive change.

"This partnership will not only deliver electricity access but also empower communities to thrive through the introduction of innovative energy solutions."

The partners further explained that the partnership extends beyond

electricity generation and looks to deepen the impact of energy access in the connected communities through the scaling up of productive use of equipment (PUE) and alignment of value chains to facilitate rural economic growth.

"The MoU sets the stage for cooperation in implementing cuttingedge energy service models like Virtual Power Plants (VPPs), aimed at enhancing energy efficiency and

grid reliability. This collaboration will lead to the introduction of value-added products and services within the Interconnected Minigrid (IMG) franchise areas.

"These offerings encompass various initiatives such as: Energyefficient appliance sales and financing; E-mobility solutions; agricultural processing and cold storage, and E-cooking solutions," the document stated.

Recapitalisation/Commercialisation: BPE Inaugurates Project Team for

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

The Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) has inaugurated the Project Delivery Team (PDT) for the recapitalisation and full commercialisation of the Nigerian Agricultural Insurance Corporation (NAIC) and the Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL).

The inauguration marked a significant milestone in the government's ongoing efforts to reform and reposition both or and NIRSAL to better serve the agricultural sector.

The recommendations for the reform stemmed from the Presidential Committee on Restructuring and Rationalisation of Federal Government Parastatals, Commissions and Agencies, otherwise known as the Orosanye Committee, which had already been endorsed by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) and the National Council on Privatisation (NCP).

The Acting BPE Director General, Ignatius Ayewoh, who inaugurated the PDT in Abuja, noted that the

Funke Olaode

A rights group, the Center Against Injustice and Domestic Violence (CAIDOV) in collaboration with Advocate for Social Justice and Defence of Rule of Law has raised the alarm over the intent of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Mr. Lateef Fagbemi to take over prosecution of a case involving a foreign oil company and five others accused of $8.4million fraud.

Trafigura Beheer BV Trafigura PTE Ltd is facing trial alongside two oil marketers – Osahon Asemota and

strategic initiative was to enhance the efficiency, management and capitalisation of the critical agricultural institutions.

According to a statement issued by the BPE Head of Public Communications, Amina Tukur Othman, the acting BPE DG highlighted the importance of this initiative for Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

"Our goal is to create a strong, efficient and well-managed organisation that will mitigate risks in the agricultural value chain, ensuring a secure environment for farmers and investors alike," Ayewoh stated.

He expressed confidence in the successful execution of the initiative, which he said aligns with President Bola Tinubu administration's objectives of achieving food security and fostering a robust agricultural sector.

In her remarks, the Managing Director of NAIC, Folashade Joseph, specifically expressed gratitude to Ayewoh and the Managing Director of NIRSAL for their commitment to this point.

She highlighted the importance of

Yusuf Kwande as well as Mettle Energy and Gas, Renbrandt Ltd and Jil Engineering and Oil Services Limited.

The defendants have been for six years, facing a three-count charge of conspiracy, stealing and receiving stolen property proffered against them by the Police Special Fraud Unit, SFU before Justice Mojisola Dada of an Ikeja Special Offences Court.

The prosecution had accused the foreign oil company alongside its four co-defendants of stealing 6.4 metric tonnes of diesel oil worth

$8.4million belonging to Nadabo

the recapitalisation of NAIC, adding that the organisation was deeply indebted.

According to her, adequate recapitalisation would enable the organisation to fulfill its mandate and achieve the food security programme of the federal government.

Joseph, also emphasised the need for collaboration by stakeholder agencies to achieve the purpose for which the committee was constituted.

The Managing Director, NIRSAL Abbas Masanawa in his remarks, thanked the leaders of both agencies (BPE & NAIC) for their commitment.

He emphasised that insurance was only a pillar among the five key pillars of NIRSAL, which includes insurance, risk-sharing, technical assistance, rating mechanism, and bank incentive mechanism.

He, consequently, assured the PDT of NIRSAL’s unwavering support in achieving the food security goal of the federal government.

The PDT, chaired by Mr. Toibudeen Oduniyi of the BPE, has representatives from key stakeholders

Energy Limited in October 2008.

During the six-year trial, 17 witnesses had testified on behalf of the prosecution before the agency closed its case while the defendants have so far, presented four witnesses.

According to CAIDOV, the trial took a puzzling turn when the Director of Public Prosecution of Federation, Mr. M.A Abubakar, in a letter dated February 29, 2024, announced the takeover of the prosecution of the matter by the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation.

According to the letter, the takeover

such as the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS), and the Nigerian Agricultural Development Fund (NADF).

The team is mandated to oversee the reform process, including the appointment of a Transaction Adviser to conduct due diligence and develop a comprehensive framework for the recapitalisation and commercialisation of NAIC and NIRSAL.

The terms of reference for the PDT include reviewing and recommending improvements to existing acts, policies, and regulations; proposing institutional and organisational changes for the enhanced efficiency of NAIC; advising on legal and regulatory frameworks for successful commercialisation; conducting status reviews of NAIC and NIRSAL to inform stakeholders of current conditions; and preparing and submitting comprehensive reports on the progress and recommendations of the Transaction Adviser.

of the prosecution of the case was in exercise of the AGF's powers under section 174(1)(b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) which provides: (b) to take over and continue any such criminal proceedings that may have been instituted by any other authority or person. However, CAIDOV in its statement revealed that according to their investigations on the matter, the AGF took over the prosecution of the case based on complaints to his office sequel to a letter dated November 17, 2023.

PHoto: ENoCK REUBEN

unveiling of the Senate’S official magazine, 10th Senate...

L-R: President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio; Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele and former President of the Senate, Senator Ahmad Lawan after the unveiling of the Senate’s official magazine, 10th Senate, at the Senate Chamber, National Assembly Complex, Abuja … yesterday

Fubara: With $28.4bn GDP Comparable to Rwanda, Botswana, Rivers Open for Business

Blessing ibunge in Port Harcourt

Rivers State Governor, Mr. Siminalayi Fubara, yesterday, expressed the commitment of his administration to make the State the best place in the country to invest and do business by creating a vibrant, investor-friendly business environment.

He said Rivers State, which is the second largest economy in Nigeria, with a nominal Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of over $28.4 billion was fully ready for business.

He stated this while speaking at the ongoing Rivers State Economic and Investment Summit with the theme, “Rivers Emerge: Advancing Pathways to Economic Growth and Sustainability.”

Fubara said with the $28.4 billion GDP, the State’s economy ranks among the top 25 economies in Africa comparable to countries like Botswana, Rwanda, and Gabon.

He explained that the aim of the summit was to advance investment opportunities in the State, saying that it would provide an opportunity for the government to hear from the experts, exchange ideas, raise questions and receive answers to the economic and investment challenges faced in the state.

He expressed, "Historically, Rivers State, especially Port Harcourt, was an established commercial centre in Nigeria. The Trans-Amadi Industrial

Layout hosted several thriving commercial and industrial concerns that created income, jobs, and prosperity for our State and people.

"Sadly, all that is now history as most of the industrial ventures in that estate have either closed shop or become moribund. The industrial estate is now characterised by abandoned factory buildings and warehouses.

"We have since lost our rating as one of the industrialised States and competitiveness as a preferred destination for domestic and foreign direct investments resulting in the continuous posting of low economic growth, high unemployment rate and slow development.

“For us, building a resilient, robust, and diversified economy holds the key to sustainable peace, security and progress of our State and the spiritual, social, and physical well-being of our people.”

Fubara, who reiterated that his administration was barely one year in office, added that the development of the state was paramount to his government and not political rivalry.

He said, "Against this background, I feel very optimistic that Rivers State will emerge from this summit and position itself as a premier investment destination, offering boundless economic opportunities for domestic and global investors.

“As a State, Rivers State is blessed

Lagos Has Attracted over N50bn Investments in One Year, Commissioner Reveals

Wins World Bank-funded ease of doing business rating

Lagos State Government has revealed that the State attracted over N50 billion naira in investments through Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and Domestic Direct Investment (DDD in the last one year. the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade & Investment, Folashade Ambrose Medebem, stated this while giving the report of her Ministry at the ongoing Ministerial Press Briefing to mark the first year, second term, of Governor Babajide Sanwo Olu’s administration at Alausa, Ikeja, yesterday.

According to the Commissioner, the new multi-billion naira investments, one of which was the Twinings Ovaltine Nigeria Limited (TONL), owned by the Associated British Foods Plc, would expand the State’s productive base, generate employment and improve its economy.

She explained: “TONL, which formerly imports from China and package into retail units here has now committed to fully manufacture its products in Lagos with the acquisition of an industrial site in Ogba.

“The N38 billion valued investment will employ 112 people directly and over 200 others as distributors by 2025, while generating over $8million in exports to West African countries.

“Other investors in healthcare, retail, Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG), education, financial services, cybersecurity, agriculture and manufacturing are also coming into Lagos, while many Trade Missions have gone from Lagos to the United Kingdom (UK) with the Organised

Private Sector (OPS) and Business Membership Organisations (BMOs) to explore new trade opportunities.

“Our participation in investment and business summits across the world actively seeks to retain and bring investment opportunities available in the State to the attention of potential investors, with the aim to attract capital, skills, innovation and technology to create more local jobs, increase productivity and generate higher revenue.”

Speaking further, Medebem pointed out that in line with the T.H.E.M.E.S+ Development Agenda, the State remains committed to formulating policies, executing infrastructure and designing trade expansion programmes and projects to accelerate the economic development of the State, noting that the Sanwo-Olu administration was leaving no stone unturned at improving the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) in the State.

“For instance, Lagos State applied and met all criteria to qualify for the first phase of the World Bank-funded State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) programme set under the Four Disbursement Linked Indicators (DLIs) covering Improved land administration and land based investment process (DLI1); Improved investment promotion environment (DLI2); Increased transparency of official fees and procedures (DLI3) and Increase transparency of fees and levies for inter-state trade (DLI4).

“The State also successfully completed reforms for additional next stage comprising Eight DLIs for the first year cycle of the SABER programme, and it is fully on track

to meet all subsequent evaluations by the programme,” she said.

Speaking further, the Commissioner remarked that the State Government and the Bank of Industry (BOI) have concluded on matched production and trade funding of N1 billion each to be accessed by Nano, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (NMSMEs), with exportable products, to scale their businesses and earn foreign exchange.

“This is a bold move to interna-

tionalise and empower our NMSMEs to grow their productive ventures, bolster regional and global trade and increase the State’s contribution to the nation’s non oil export.

“The funding will complement our current engagement with the Nigerian Arabian Gulf Chamber of Commerce (NAGCC) to facilitate agricultural products and value chain to the six Gulf States through the Nigerian Trade House in Dubai,” she stated.

with enormous human and natural resources, including oil and gas, fertile soil, solid minerals, and an extensive coastline with great water bodies.

“The State is the centre-point of the oil and gas industry in West Africa. We account for over 40 per cent of crude oil production onshore in the country and 100 per cent of liquefied gas that the country exports.

“The State also is the second largest economy in Nigeria, and with a nominal GDP of over $28.4billion, the State’s economy ranks in the top 25 economies in Africa comparable to countries like Botswana, Rwanda, and Gabon."

The governor who also stated that Rivers State remains the economic heartbeat of the Niger Delta region adding, "our focus at this time is to grow our economy to greater heights so that we can derive more tax revenues to deliver quality social services to our people.

“Our mantra is 'Rivers First'. Our covenant and commitment are to serve our people to the best of our ability with compassion, honesty, and responsibility."

Furthermore, he assured that his government’s intentions are right, saying, "Our commitment is unwavering, and with the collaboration and support of all, we will collectively harness the economic potential of Rivers State to achieve considerably high and sustainable economic growth and prosperity in the coming decade and build a brighter future for our children and grandchildren.”

Fubara, commended the former governor of Cross River, Donald Duke

for accepting to Chair the programme despite his tight schedule.

In his speech, Chairman of the summit, Donald Duke, noted that Rivers State was endowed with rich natural resources, but regretted the amount of gas flared could have been converted to meaningful resources that would attract more funds for the development of the state. He said Nigeria should focus more on growth than concentrating on challenges of inflation, adding that the summit was a welcome development, which happened at a time when the nation is losing her grip on the economy.

"When we raise interest rate so high; today if you borrow you are not going to get money less than 35 per cent. That is a disincentive to growth. “I believe growth, over a period would absolve inflation. I am concerned because if a foreigner or foreign investor should bring a $100 million to invest, at the end of the year he or she will just go back with $122 million.

“Do we have the resources to sustain that high level of interest? So, if we keep on focusing on inflation, I think we may miss the ball, but our focus should be more on growth and try to manage inflation at the same time, "he said He recalled that, "In 1980, our population was about 72 million, the four years between 1979 and 1983, when Shagari was Head of State, the budget was about $25 billion. Forty-four years after, our population perhaps 230 million, our national budget is $19 billion.”

Court Stops Lagos Country Club from Holding AGM

Orders parties to maintain status quo

Wale igbintade

Justice Ambrose Lewis-Allagoa of the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos, has ordered all warring factions in the Lagos Country Club, to maintain status quo, pending the hearing of the suit filed by the club's Registered Trustees. Justice Lewis-Allagoa made the order yesterday, following an application of the counsel to the plaintiff, Dr. Kemi Pinheiro SAN. Pinheiro, had urged the court to compel parties not to take a step that would temper with the subject matter of the suit.

A senior Advocate of Nigeria Mr. Babs Fashanu, who appeared for himself equally urged the court to make an express order to restrain anybody from taking any further steps pending the hearing and

determination of the suit.

The suit filed by the Club's Registered Trustees against 19 members of the clubs over the Club's Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled May 30 and 31, 2024.

The defendants in the suit marked FHC/L/CS/321/2024 are: Seyi Adewunmi; Engr. Tunji Amosu; Dr. Tunde Bajela; Otunba Bimbola Olaniyi; Asiwaju Olasunkade Azeez; Mr. Ose Lato; Mr. Babajide Egbele; Arc. Adetokunbo Ashiru; Barr. Bunmi Sosanya; Mr. Adetayo Adegboye and Prince Owolabl Mumuni.

Others are: Mr. Olufemi Azeez; Princess ‘Tola Oladoyin; Mr. Tom Olurinola; Barr, Babs Fashanu (SAN); High Chief Ayoko Olusoji H.; Mr. Semoore Badejo; Mr. Tunji Lawal and Mr. Tunde Thani.

The defendant's counsel A. B. Ogunsusi said the plaintiff cannot be

talking about interim order because it's the prayer on the substantive matter before the court.

But Pinheiro said the adjournment “of today is orchestrated by the defendants so that they carry out their planning of conducting elections which is the subject matter of this suit.”

Justice Lewis-Allagoa his short ruling held: "Pending the hearing and determination of this application, I ordered that the status quo be maintained. Meaning that no step should be taken by any party.

"In the interim none of the party should take any step and whatsoever act pending the hearing and determination of this application. No letter or correspondences about elections which form the subject of this suit I have said what I said. He who

have hear, let him hear."

Justice Allagoa thereafter adjourned the hearing of the substantive suit to 6th of June, 2024

The Registered Trustees of the Club had through their lawyer, Dr. Kemi Pinheiro, prayed for, "an order of Mandatory Injunction pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit directing the defendants to immediately reverse, suspend and/or dissolve the Electoral Panel inaugurated by the Defendants acting as the Management Council of the Lagos Country Club in total disregard of the pending process of the Hon- ourable Court in this suit and in defiance of the clear and specific Directive/order of the Honourable Court made in this suit on the 27th of February 2024, that parties maintain status quo."

Segun James

OpEning OF thE nAtiOnAl COunCil On SpOrtS MEEting...

Students' Loan: FG Focusing on Branch Instead of Tree, Says Agora Policy

Argues scheme prone to abuse

Agora Policy, a Nigerian think tank and non-profit organisation, has characterised President Bola Tinubu’s student loan scheme as a ‘right policy for the wrong reason’, stressing that although laudable, the federal government was focusing on the branches, rather than the entire tree.

The organisation in a report on the scheme, argued that focusing on the programme without taking the entire issue of higher education funding into full focus, will not markedly make any difference.

“The student loan scheme is, arguably, the flagship education policy of President Bola Tinubu in his first year in office. However, by focusing only on the loans without bringing the entire issue of higher education funding into full focus, government has only paid attention to the branch, rather than the tree itself,” it stated.

The president had on June 12, 2023, within days of assuming office, signed into law the bill which provides for interest-free loans to students in higher education institutions in the country.

Agora pointed out that while the action was generally well received, it was also dogged by a few criticisms. However, unlike the previous law which explicitly described the loan as interest-free, the new law, it said, implies that interests will be charged on the loans, but without stating the percentage . It argued that from what the president and the lawmakers

have said, the impression is that the student loan scheme is a social intervention programme designed for the sole reason of granting access to higher education to students from poor homes.

Viewed in historical and global context, it stressed that this would be a strange reason, explaining that the world over, conversations about student loans have always taken place in the context of ‘cost-sharing’.

It listed six factors that could aid the success of student loan schemes to include: Sound institutional structure for management of the loans; sound financial management that protects against depreciation of the capital base and sound legal framework to ensure that loan recovery is legally enforceable.

Agora listed others as: Effective mechanism for selecting recipients based on financial need or manpower priorities; effective machinery for loan recovery and; publicity campaign to promote understanding of its principles and the obligations to repay .

It stated that the 2024 Act had minimised the risk of political interference contained in the earlier Act that left the control with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), explaining that this should strengthen the management and administration of the fund.

It added that the financial management model is also likely to protect against currency volatility, noting however, that there is nothing in the new law that guarantees better recovery than in the earlier attempts.

Agora stated that even if the legal framework for recovery is strong

enough, actual enforcement could still be problematic, pointing out that the financial, social and political cost of collection may overwhelm whatever benefits the government set out to derive from the scheme.

It added: “In addition, unlike the 2023 Act, the 2024 law does not discriminate based on socialeconomic background. This may turn out to be a major drawback. A system that is free for all creates a situation whereby those who can afford to pay are still the ones that benefit from the loan, especially when they think there is a chance to get away with repayments.

“ The earlier Act that allowed only

those whose family income does not exceed N500,000 per annum to apply excluded nearly everyone. But making the loan available to everyone, whether they are in need or not, is regressive and potentially disadvantages those who really need the loans, especially when too many people are applying to the same limited pot of fund.”

It recommended that as a costoffsetting instrument, the scheme should be tied to the need to increase funding to higher institutions rather than for merely expanding access.

Agora argued that expanding access into it without expanding funding for the higher institutions

undercuts their capacity to deliver quality education.

It said that loan or tuition does not substitute for government allocation, noting that funding system should be based on per-student costing which should also reflect changes in operating cost on annual basis.

Using per-student costing approach, it said, will ensure that higher institutions have adequate funding to deliver quality education and greater value to the students and the country.

“Tuition or other fees need to be formalised and standardised to minimise discretionary charges which leave the students at the mercy

FG Begins Construction

Francis Sardauna in Katsina

The federal government, through the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, has commenced the construction of 1,250 housing units across four Northern States.

The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, disclosed this during the ceremonial groundbreaking for 250 housing units yesterday in Katsina.

He said the housing project tagged: ‘‘Renewed Hope Estates’’, comprises 500 housing units

that will be built in Kano, 250 in Gombe, 250 in Yobe, 250 in Katsina.

He said: “After here (Katsina), we will be in Kano to do groundbreaking for 500 housing units, 250 units in Yobe, and another 250 units in Gombe. In total, we are breaking ground for 1,250 housing units across four states in Northern Nigeria.”

He explained that the Katsina housing estate comprises 50 units of one-bedroom semi-detached bungalows, 100 units of twobedroom semi-detached bungalows, and 50 units of three-bedroom

semi-detached bungalows.

“Each housing unit is expected to create an average of 25 direct and indirect jobs, translating to approximately 6,250 jobs for the 250 units here in Katsina alone,” he said.

He said the federal government targets to deliver 50,000 housing units in Nigeria, distributed strategically across Nigeria's six geo-political zones and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

of the institutions and to increase the pool of funding available to the institutions.

“The Student Loans Act, 2024 is still replete with several weaknesses that opens the scheme to abuse both at the levels of loan award and recovery. These weaknesses should be addressed at the policy implementation level.

“Making the loan available to everyone potentially disadvantages those who actually need it. Some kind of means-testing instruments need to be developed to ensure that loans are targeted at those who need it most and recovery is also tailored to their realities.

He further stated that the federal government had already awarded contracts for the construction of 3,500 housing units in 13 states, thereby demonstrating its commitment to rolling out the developments nationwide.

Dangiwa explained that the housing projects would serve as catalysts for economic growth, job creation and social development in communities where they are located.

Tinubu Names Woke New DG of NOSDRA

of 1,250 Housing Units in Four Northern States South-west’s

Funmi Ogundare

The first female Professor of Mechanical Engineering, Southwest Nigeria, Christiana Ijagbemi, yesterday called on governments and stakeholders to harness the power of innovation, collaboration and collective action, towards transitioning to a low-carbon economy. She argued that this will mitigate the impacts of climate change and the building of a thriving and sustainable communities for generations to come.

Ijagbemi made the call at the Olutumbi Joana Maduka Annual Lecture ( OMAL) themed: 'Sustainable Technology and Energy Solutions to Climate Change: Building a Resilient

Future', organised in honour of the founding President of Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN) , Mrs Joana Maduka, in Lagos. She explained that sustainable technology and energy solutions were indispensable tools in the fight against climate change and the pursuit of a resilient future.

Ijagbemi , a guest speaker at the programme, was represented by a professor of the Chemical Engineering Department, University of Ilorin, Kwara State, Temitope Odetoye. She described climate change and sustainability as challenges that must be addressed, saying that part of that challenge is the emission of greenhouse gases especially

Climate Change

carbon dioxide that have led to global warming all over the world.

"Building resilience to climate change requires a holistic approach that integrates sustainable technology with adaptation strategies and community resilience efforts. Investing in green infrastructure, such as flood barriers, green roofs, and coastal restoration projects, can reduce vulnerability to extreme weather events and sea-level rise," she stated.

By embracing nature-based solutions, such as reforestation, wetland restoration, and sustainable land management, she said, it will enhance ecosystem services and biodiversity, while providing natural buffers against climate impacts.

"By prioritising resilience in plan-

ning and decision-making processes, communities can withstand and recover from climate-related shocks and build a more sustainable and equitable future for all," she stated.

In her remarks, the President of APWEN, Dr. Adebisi Osim, stated that the theme of the lecture was critical and timely as it demands utmost action. She called on engineers to harness the power of technology and innovation to address the pressing challenge of climate change . According to her:" The scientific evidence is clear; our planet is facing unprecedented environmental threats, and we must act decisively to secure a sustainable future for generations to come.

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Engr. Chukwuemeka Woke as the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA).

The President, in a release issued on Wednesday by his Media Adviser, Ajuri Ngelale, also okayed the appointment of Dr. Adedeji Ashiru as the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority (OORBDA).

President Tinubu expects the new Chief Executive Officers to deploy their competencies to these critical agencies for sustainable gains and turnaround, while maintaining

utmost transparency in their operations.

Woke, aside being an engineer, is an environmental specialist and politician who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical/Petrochemical Engineering, and had served under the Environmental, Safety, and Operations Departments of the then Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). He was Chairman of Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State and Chief of Staff, Government House, Port Harcourt, for many years. On his part, Ashiru holds a Doctorate degree in Engineering from the Common Wealth University, UK, and has led a consortium of blue-chip companies, in addition to earning many stripes in his professional endeavour.

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

L-R: Deputy Governor of Osun State, Prince Kola Adewusi; Minister of Sports Development, Sen. John Enoh; representative of the President and Minister of Special Duties, Hon. Zaphaniah Jisalo; governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah; Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Sports Development, Mrs Tinuke Watti; Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Enugu State, Barr. Lloyd Ekweremadu, and President, Nigeria Olympic Committee, Engr. Habu Gumel, at the opening of the National Council on Sports Meeting in Enugu... yesterday

Food Insecurity: FG, IITA, World Bank to Partner on Innovative Agric Practices

Shettima

canvasses collaboration on improved seedlings, climate-resilient agric Says Nigeria will become third most populous nation on earth by 2050

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

The Federal Government, International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), and World Bank have agreed to form a formidable partnership on innovative agricultural practices to address food insecurity in Nigeria and the broader sub-Saharan African region.

This formed the high point of a high-level meeting between Vice President Kashim Shettima and a delegation from the IITA, World Bank, and the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) at the State House, Abuja yesterday.

Speaking during the meeting, Shettima said the whole mantra

Deji

President Bola Tinubu yesterday advocated discussions on empowering regional blocs to establish wellfunded standby military forces to help contain military adventurers, rampaging waves of terrorism, and religious extremism.

Tinubu made the call in Abuja in his keynote address at the Summit on the State of Democracy in Africa.

He canvassed for the strengthening of regional economic communities to drive integration and trade ties among African countries in order to deepen democracy and accelerate development across the continent.

The president contended that through bitter experiences, Nigeria had learned that the solution to poor democratic governance was having more democracies.

On his part, former President Olusegun Obasanjo said the answer to the myriad challenges confronting democracy in Africa lied in re-examining the model of democracy passed on to countries on the continent by their colonial

end of the Cold War. These uncertain times call for a clear plan and bold action to chart a course to a secure future.

“You must choose in this election who has that plan. Who is prepared to take the bold action necessary to secure a better future for our country and our children?,” he said.

Sunak’s call a snap general election threw the fate of his embattled Conservative Party to a restless British public that appears eager for change after 14 years of Conservative government.

He was speaking from a rainspattered lectern in front of 10 Downing Street, marking the starting gun for six weeks of campaigning that will render a verdict on a party that has led Britain since Barack Obama was America’s president.

But the Tories have discarded four prime ministers in eight years, lurching through the serial chaos of Brexit, the coronavirus pandemic and a cost-of-living crisis, the New York Times reported. With the opposition Labour Party (LP) ahead in most polls by double digits for the last 18 months, a Conservative defeat has come to assume an air of inevitability, the paper said.

For all that, Sunak is calculating that Britain has had just enough good news in recent days — including glimmers of fresh economic growth and the lowest inflation rate in three years — that his party might be able to cling to power.

“Now is the moment for Britain to choose its future,” Sunak said, as pelting rain drenched his suit jacket. The choice for voters, he said, was to “build on the future you’ve made or risk going back to square one.”

Political analysts, opposition leaders and members of Sunak’s own party agree that the electoral mountain he must climb is Himalayan.

Burdened by a weak economy, a

is focused on increasing yield, and the IITA is in a vantage position to assist not just Nigeria but sub-Saharan Africa in repositioning the agriculture ecosystem through smart agriculture, climate-resilient agriculture, and improved seedlings.

“The IITA is at a vantage position to assist not just Nigeria but subSaharan Africa towards repositioning the agriculture ecosystem through smart agriculture, climate resilient agriculture, and improved seedlings,” he said.

The Vice President, in a release issued on Wednesday by his Media Assistant, Stanley Nkwocha, noted the significant role of the IITA established in 1967 in shaping Nigeria's

masters.

Tinubu called for revitalisation of sub-regional blocs, like Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), East African Community (EAC), and Southern African Development Community (SADC), as vehicles to usher in an era of robust intra-African commerce, economic growth, and job creation.

Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, said the immense potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) could only be maximally realised when there was concrete economic integration and collaboration at the different sub-regional levels.

Delivering the keynote address, the president urged the regional bodies to prioritise minimising trade barriers, promoting sustainable and inclusive economic growth, human capital development, as well as value addition in agriculture and agro-allied sectors.

He said, "We must deliberate on ways through which African sub-regional organisations can help foster better intra-African trade,

calamitous foray into trickle-down tax policies, and successive scandals, the Tories have seemed exhausted and adrift, split by internal feuds and fatalistic about their future. They face a threat on the right from the anti-immigrant Reform UK party.

“The Conservatives are facing a kind of extinction-level event,” said Matthew Goodwin, a professor of politics at the University of Kent who has advised Boris Johnson and other party leaders. “They look like they’re going to suffer an even bigger defeat than they did to Tony Blair in 1997,” he added.

Other political analysts were more cautious: Some pointed out that in 1992, the Conservative government of Prime Minister John Major overcame a deep polling deficit to eke out a narrow victory and stay in power.

Still, since the party won by a landslide in the 2019 elections on the slogan “Get Brexit done,” the Tories have bled support among young people, traditional Conservative voters in the England’s south and southwest and, crucially, working-class voters in the industrial Midlands and north of England, whose backing in 2019 was key to then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s landmark victory.

Many are disillusioned by the scandals of Johnson’s tenure, including Downing Street social gatherings that breached Covid lockdown rules, and even more so by the fiasco of his successor, Liz Truss, who was toppled after just 44 days, following proposed tax cuts that rattled financial markets, caused the pound to torpedo and fractured the party’s reputation for economic competence.

While Sunak, 44, steadied the markets and has run a more stable government than his predecessors, critics say he never developed a convincing strategy to recharge the country’s growth.

Nor did he fulfil two other promises: to cut waiting times in

agricultural landscape.

According to him: "More than ever before, we need the IITA now. By 2050, we will be the third most populous nation on earth".

He also noted the interconnectedness between the economy and ecology, exacerbated by desertification, climate change, and insecurity challenges in the Sahel region.

"In the food basket of the nation, there is an incestuous relationship between economy and ecology because of desertification and climate change. The productivity of our agriculture is poor, and is compounded by insecurity, which might not be unconnected with the challenges in the Sahel," he explained.

achieve better food and energy security, promote higher rates of youth employment, alleviate poverty and realise greater prosperity for our people."

The president stated that a reinvigorated sub-regional cooperation was critical to the successful implementation of the path-breaking AfCFTA by harmonising rules and regulations to facilitate the free movement of goods, services, and people.

While acknowledging the "despair about democratic reversals" due to recent military coups, he expressed optimism over polls held successfully in nations, like Liberia, Kenya, Ghana, and Nigeria.

He added, “The tragedies of our nations and histories inspire our concern about the reversals of democratic governments, particularly in West Africa. That’s why we are alarmed by the military coups in Mali, Guinea Conakry, Burkina Faso, Niger Republic, and Gabon.”

Tinubu advocated discussions on empowering regional blocs to establish well-funded standby military forces "to help contain

Britain’s National Health Service and to stop the stream of small boats carrying asylum seekers across the English Channel.

Many voters in the “red wall” districts — so called because of Labour’s campaigning color — appear ready to return to their roots in the party. Under the competent, if uncharismatic, leadership of Keir Starmer, Labour has shaken off the shadow of his left-wing predecessor, Jeremy Corbyn.

Under British law, Sunak was obliged to hold an election by January 2025. Political analysts had expected him to wait until the fall to allow more time for the economy to recover.

But in the wake of an announcement on Wednesday that inflation had fallen to an annual rate of 2.3 per cent — just above the Bank of

The central bank also pegged the minimum capital requirement for a national BDC at N2 billion, and N500 million for a state operator.

In addition, the central bank issued a six-month deadline for the BDCs to meet the minimum capital requirements for the license category applied for from the effective date of the guidelines.

The apex bank conveyed the new development in a circular dated May 22, 2024, and signed by CBN Director, Financial Policy and Regulation Department, Mr. Haruna Mustafa, which was addressed to all BDCs and stakeholders in the financial services industry.

The bank stated that the guidelines were part of its reforms to reposition the sub-sector to play its envisioned role in the country's foreign exchange (FX) market.

The regulation introduced new licensing requirements and categories of BDCs as well as revised

Calling for close collaboration with the IITA, Shettima pointed out the importance of investing in agriculture as a business.

He specifically requested the institute's assistance in providing high-quality seeds for maize and root crops, particularly cassava. The Vice President lauded the widespread adoption of IITA's improved cassava seedlings in the Southwest region, urging the institute to extend similar initiatives to other sub-Saharan African nations.

Earlier, the Director General of the IITA, Dr Simeon Ehui, thanked the Vice President for his leadership and commitment to the development of agriculture in Nigeria and support

military adventurers and the rampaging waves of terrorism and religious extremism."

He urged African leaders to respect constitutional tenets, like term limits, and ensure credible elections and autonomous institutions through the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) to achieve democratic consolidation.

"This summit must discuss ways of making the APRM contribute to achieving good governance and democratic consolidation on the continent," he stated.

Declaring that Africa could no longer be the "doormat of the world with street beggar economies", he called for concrete measures through reinvented regional bodies to boost trade, enhance security, and entrench constitutional democracy for development and prosperity.

Earlier, Obasanjo, in his keynote remarks, said the solution to the numerous challenges confronting democracy in Africa was in revisiting the models of democracy passed on to countries on the continent by their colonial masters.

He said leaders across the conti-

England’s target of 2 per cent — he may have gambled that the news was as good as it is going to get. Sunak may also be calculating that the government can put a first flight carrying asylum seekers to Rwanda in the air before the vote. That would allow him to claim progress on another of his priorities, the report said.

The Rwanda policy, which involves deporting asylum seekers to the African nation without first hearing their cases, has been condemned by rights campaigners, the courts and opposition leaders — and it has drawn a raft of legal challenges. But Sunak has made it a centrepiece of his agenda, because it is popular with the Conservative Party’s political base.

the permissible activities, financial requirements, corporate governance requirements, and AML/CFT/CPF provisions for BDCs.

The bank further stated that applicants for a new BDC license were required to meet the conditions for the grant of license in accordance with the tier or category of BDC chosen, as stipulated in the guidelines.

CBN barred commercial, merchant, non-interest and payment service banks; financial holding companies; Other Financial Institutions (OFIs), including International Money Transfer Operators and payment service providers as well as serving staff of financial services regulatory and supervisory agencies, among others, from participating in the ownership of BDCs, directly or indirectly.

The apex bank stated that under the regulatory dispensation, a BDC or its franchisee shall not engage in

to the Institute. He said the delegation from the Institute was in Abuja for a strategic meeting that aims to review IITA’s partnerships, collaborations and stakeholder engagements, all to support the Federal Government’s efforts in addressing food security in Nigeria and across the West African sub-region.

Also speaking, the Deputy Director General, Partnerships for Delivery, IITA, Dr Dashiell Kenton, said the institute is supporting a few initiatives of the Federal Government aimed at creating employment opportunities for young Nigerians in the sector.

According to him, the ‘Youth in Agribusiness’ initiative of the Bola

nent must come together to devise a form of contextual democracy that took into account past experiences, addresses contemporary challenges, and emphasises good leadership, strong institutions, and a stable middle class, all reflecting Africa’s rich cultural heritage.

The former president expressed concern about the growing discontent for democracy on the continent and insisted that the model that would work for Africa was one that took into account the typical and predominant political system as well as one suitably and appropriately placed to serve the objectives of the African people.

In her goodwill message, the United Nations (UN) Deputy Secretary-General and Chair of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Dr Amina Mohammed, said the active participation of women and young people in politics and other decision-making processes would strengthen democracy on the continent.

She drew the attention of authorities on the continent to the effective implementation of laws, adherence to the tenets of accountability, and improved investment in democratic institutions, stating that they are critical to the sustenance of democracy in Africa and beyond.

Equally speaking, former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and member of the Board of Directors, Shehu Musa Yar’adua Foundation, Abubakar Mahmoud (SAN), said the focus of the summit, which was “the state of democracy in Africa," aligned with the cornerstone of the foundation’s mission and vision.

Mahmoud said participants at the summit were expected to thoroughly interrogate the model of democracy practised in Africa vis a vis current challenges experienced in the continent, to resolve the lingering issues and reshape democracy in the continent.

Meanwhile, the sixth parlia-

street-trading of foreign currencies; maintain any type of account for any member of the public, including accepting any asset for safe keeping/custody; take deposits from or grant loans to members of the public in any currency and in any form as well as engage in retail sale of foreign currencies to non-individuals, except for Business Travel Allowance (BTA).

Furthermore, in sourcing for foreign currencies by BDCs, sellers of the equivalent of $10,000 and above to a BDC were required to declare the source of the foreign exchange and comply with all AML/CFT/CPF regulations and foreign exchange laws and regulations.

Customers might also sell foreign currencies in their individual domiciliary accounts with Nigerian banks to BDCs, the central bank added.

The regulation also specified the minimum and maximum

ment of the ECOWAS parliament considered and adopted crucial parliamentary instruments to guide the progress and implementation of its mandate.

That was part of decisions made yesterday at the 2024 Second Extraordinary Session of the parliament held in Kano, North-west Nigeria. The instruments consisted of the rules of procedure, the strategic plan, and the 2024 work plan of the parliament.

Acting Speaker of the ECOWAS parliament and Deputy President of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, in his speech at the session's opening, stressed the importance of the protocols in facilitating the work of the parliament.

Jibrin said, “This extraordinary session is unique on several counts. During this session, we are expected to hold deliberations and adopt three very important instruments, which bear heavily on the progress and effective implementation of our mandate.

“They are the rules of procedure of the sixth legislature, which was deferred from our inaugural session, the strategic plan of the sixth legislature, and 2024 annual work plan.

"You would agree with me that our rules of procedure are very important, as they make us more efficient and serve as our guide, thereby reducing the chances of our actions and decisions being challenged for procedural deficiencies.

"The strategic plan, on the other hand, will serve as a crucial and indispensable tool in ensuring that our programmes and activities are directly linked with the overall strategic institutional objectives of ECOWAS, while our work plan will set the agenda for our engagements this year.”

With the adoption of the instruments, the stage for the full commencement of parliamentary activities by the community parliament was set, he stated.

number of directors on the board of a BDC. It said Tier 1 shall have a minimum of five and maximum of seven directors, while Tier 2 shall require a minimum of three and maximum of five directors.

CBN, among other things, said, “The number of independent nonexecutive directors (INEDs) shall be at least one for Tier 1 and Tier 2 BDCs, provided that where a BDC is publicly listed, it shall comply with the applicable provisions of CAMA 2020, as amended.

“A Tier 1 BDC shall have an Executive Director (ED) other than the MD/CEO. A Tier 2 BDC may have an ED apart from the MD/ CEO. No Board of a BDC shall comprise only one gender.

“To achieve gender diversity and promote a gender-inclusive Board, BDCs shall take a practical approach to women’s economic empowerment in line with the Nigerian Sustainable Banking Principles.”

Tinubu administration is commendable and should be scaled up to empower more young Nigerians, assuring that the institute, through the initiative, will empower more smallholder farmers with knowledge on improved agricultural practices.

Vice President Kashim Shettima

Elumoye in Abuja and Michael Olugbode in Abuja

disbursement ceremony of n1bn operational Grant for micro and small enterprises...

LCCI: Inflationary Pressure, Interest Rate Hike Overheating Economy, Undermining Industrial Productivity

In the face of continued tightening of the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has cried out that the twin burden of high inflation and interest rate are overheating the economy and undermining industrial production, which could lead to job losses.

The LCCI expressed these views yesterday, in reaction to the outcome of Tuesday’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting, where it further raised the MPR, the benchmark interest rate by 150 basis points to 26.25 per cent from 24.75 per cent, in its sustained effort to bring fight inflation.

The CBN had raised interest rates by a total of 7.5 per cent since its maiden meeting in February as manufacturers continue to groan under high cost of funds. The MPR is

the rate at which commercial banks borrow from the economy and often determines the cost of funds.

However, the LCCI warned that the attainment of the projected 3.37 per cent GDP growth might be elusive if the CBN continues to tighten its monetary policy.

Director General of the LCCI, Dr. Chinyere Almona, suggested that decisive and multifaceted actions were required to stabilise prices and enhance individuals’ purchasing power.

Almona said: “As inflation continues to rise despite the various interventions by monetary and fiscal authorities, we must take more decisive and multifaceted action to stabilise prices and support our citizens’ purchasing power.

“With several hikes in the past months, we are yet to record a significant impact on stabilising prices."

She added: “The twin burden

of high inflation and interest rates is overheating the economy and causing increased volatility and uncertainty.

“The private sector is once again thrown into more profound loan repayment crises as interest rates adjust to the new monetary policy rates.

“We are likely to see a reduction in demand as purchasing power weakens and this may lead to lower industrial production and loss of jobs eventually.”

The director general, however, acknowledged that curbing inflation and stabilising prices are not easy steps to take, especially at a period Nigeria was striving to attain reasonable growth that would create jobs and reduce the poverty level in Nigeria.

She also reiterated the chamber’s position, “on the need to implement targeted fiscal and monetary interventions that could boost

food production, lower the cost of doing business, overhaul transport infrastructure, increase investment in innovative security architecture driven with technology, create a more enabling environment for the power and oil and gas sectors, and boosting non-oil exports.

“Specifically, the chamber had recommended that the CBN should apply an import duty exchange rate that is lower than the official rate at a fixed rate for a determined period.

“This is expected to help businesses to plan better and serves as a palliative that benefits a high proportion of the populace.

“Earlier in the year, we called on the government to implement specially targeted support for strategic industries.”

Almona also pointed out that the ongoing debate on a new minimum wage for Nigerian public workers would become a critical variable in the discourse about the next levels

EFCC, TAJBank Battle over N1.2bn Forfeited Property

Wale igbintade

Non-interest banking services provider, TAJBank Limited has asked a federal high court in Lagos to set aside the final forfeiture order relating to a multi-billion property known as Apartment No. 1103, Belmonte, located at number 40 Bourdillon Road, Ikoyi Lagos.

Justice Tijjani Ringim had on November 29, 2023, ordered a final forfeiture of the property to the Federal government following the request of the the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in suit number FHC/CS/1818/2023.

However, TAJBank in a Motion on Notice brought pursuant to Section 44(1) of the Constitution, and Order 26 Rule 1 of the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules, 2019 filed by its lawyer, Anthony Ibekwe is praying the court to restrain the EFCC from interfering with the property.

The bank is also asking for, "a consequential order directing the EFCC to remove forthwith, the notice of the Final Forfeiture Order handed down by this Honourable Court on November 29, 2023, from the front door of Apartment No. 1103, Belmonte, No. 40 Bourdillon Road, Ikoyi, "A consequential order restraining the EFCC from interfering (or otherwise dealing) with the Applicant's property known as Apartment No. 1103, Belmonte, No. 40 Bourdillon Road."

In a 25-paragraph affidavit deposed to by one Akeem Abubakar, a legal officer of TAJBank limited, he stated that sometime in June 2023, the applicant (TAJBank) decided to buy a

property to aid its business operations in Lagos.

According to the deponent, the applicant, after several inquiries and searches, identified a property in Ikoyi, known as, "Apartment No, 2203, Belmonte, No, 40 Bourdillon Road, lkoyl, Lagos. He stated that to determine the actual market value of the property and as part of its due diligence protocols, the applicant engaged the services of Messrs. Osas & Oseji (Estate Surveyors and Valuers) to undertake a valuation of the Property.

He added that the applicant also conducted due diligence searches at the Lagos State Land Registry to determine whether there are any encumbrances on the Property.

Following the outcome of its due diligence inquiries, the applicant commenced discussions with representatives of the entity (i.e. Blessed Rageous Integrated Services Limited) with proprietary interest in the Property, apartment 1103 Belmonte located at No. 40 Bourdillon Road, Ikoyi Lagos

He said the applicant purchased the property for the sum of N1,271,600,000.00 (One Billion, Two Hundred and Seventy-One Million, Six Hundred Thousand Naira) then executed a contract of sale with the said Blessed Rageous Integrated Services Limited.

Following the conclusion of the sale transaction, the Applicant took possession of the Property with a view of furnishing same for its use.

He said on or about March 25, 2024, a letter was delivered to the Property by pasting on the front

door thereof.

To the Applicant's utter shock and disbelief, the letter suggested that the Property is the subject of a Final Forfeiture Order, handed down by this Court on November 29, 2023.

He added that upon a close scrutiny of the enrolled copy of the Final Forfeiture Order of the court, the applicant discovered that the Order refers to 1 Unit of 4 Bedroom Luxury Apartment lying and situate at Belmonte Bourdilon Road lkoyi Lagos".

He stated that in order to unravel

onyebuchi ezigbo in Abuja

The federal government has said only about 300,000 health professionals are currently attending to the healthcare needs of over 200 million Nigerians.

The worrisome statistics came on the heels of the induction of 395 foreign graduates of Medical Laboratory Science by the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN) in Abuja.

Addressing the inductees at a solemn ceremony held at the headquarters of MLSCN in Abuja, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Tunji Alausa, said

the circumstances behind the issuance of the Final Forfeiture Order, the Applicant engaged Messrs. Opal Law Office, a law firm to conduct 3 search on the case file for the matter, at the Federal High Court.

He stated that unless the EFCC was restrained, the applicant's right to deal with the Property having invested heavily on the said property in manner that it deems fit would be unduly fettered.

Justice Kehinde Ogundare fixed June 3, 2024 for hearing of the application.

of government recurrent spending that might further fuel inflationary pressures into the second half of the year.

According to her, the government should begin to plan for the mas- sive commitment of resources to implement the new minimum wage when the debates are over.

“This calls attention to reducing the cost of governance, eliminating duplicate functions in government agencies through mergers, and investing more in the deployment of technology to automate some government processes.

“Beyond the instrument of rate hikes to curb inflation, economic

managers should consider non-cash interventions to reflate the economy without necessarily increasing the currency in circulation.

“If this tightness continues, we should not expect to achieve our growth projection of about 3.37 per cent this year,” she said.

The LCCI also said the government should seek more options to support industrial productivity, fight insecurity, invest more in infrastructure like power and transportation, deploy more technology for automation to ease the cost of doing business, and give a boost to non-oil exports to increase our foreign exchange earnings.

As negotiations on the new national minimum wage continues, organised labour yesterday shifted ground on its demand from N615,000 to N500,000.

The new concession by the labour movement which came after the rejection of the N54,000 offer by the government side forced the government team to go into separate consultation before reconvening of the meeting yesterday evening.

A reliable source at the Tripartite Committee meeting told THISDAY that government was expected to respond to the fresh submission made by labour with yet another proposal.

The source said: "Labour has stepped down their demand for N615,000. They are now negotiat- ing for N500,000 as new national minimum wage."

The federal government had stepped up on its offer last Tuesday by raising its proposed new minimum wage to N54,000 to be at par with what the organised private sector proposed.However a member of the Tripartite Committee representing Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) Prof. Theophilus Ndubuaku, said that labour rejected the upgraded offer from the government Instead, Ndubuaku said that organised labour had maintained its position to demand N615,000 as new minimum wage. He also said that the May 31 deadline labour had given to the government to conclude every negotiations still stands, adding that there may not be any other notice to government for strike if it fails to keep to the deadline.

that federal government was in a hurry to reposition the health sector to bring it at par with its peers in other countries.

He lamented that the massive exodus of health professionals from Nigeria has led to a significant shortage of personnel required for the growth of the health sector.

Alausa said: "Suffice it to say that the federal government is in a hurry to reposition the health sector to bring it at par with its peers in other countries, especially those we often seek to benchmark.

"The narrative that we spend over $2 billion out of our meagre foreign

reserves on health tourism is neither acceptable nor sustainable. Therefore, all hands must be on deck to ensure a better narrative and outcome for the health sector.

"Furthermore, the exodus of health professionals in search of so-called greener pastures has led to a significant shortage of personnel required for the growth of the health sector.

"Based on recent data, we have about 300,000 health professionals attending to the healthcare needs of over 200 million people. This is grossly inadequate and puts enormous pressure on the available workforce."

The Minister said in conjunction with the relevant stakeholders, including MLSCN, the federal government was taking necessary steps to improve and stabilise the health sector.

While congratulating the inductees the Registrar of MLSCN, Tosan Erhabor, said the Council recognised the need to do something urgently to fill gaps created limited training facilities

"In our quest to deliver on the above mandate, the Council had to review the process of admitting into the profession those, who trained outside the country’s shores.

L-R: Deputy Chief of Staff, Dr. Toyin Taiwo; Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya; Deputy Governor, Engr. (Mrs.) Noimot Salako-Oyedele; one of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Fasanmoye Eunice and the Economic Adviser Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Dapo Okubadejo at the disbursement ceremony of N1bn Operational Grant for Micro and Small Enterprises held at the Oba's Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta... yesterday

dike onwuamaeze

onyebuchi ezigbo in Abuja

SUmmit on thE StAtE of DEmoCrACy in AfriCA...

Air Peace: Keyamo Restates FG’s Support for Nigerian Airlines Designated on International Operations

NCAA condemns maltreatment of Nigerian passengers by Turkish Airlines

Chinedu Eze

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has said the federal government was in full support of all Nigerian airlines designated for international operations, including Air Peace which operates daily service from Lagos to Gatwick Airport, London.

This comes just as the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) yesterday, condemned the maltreatment of over 300 Nigerians booked to travel with Turkish Airlines from the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, but were abandoned when the European carrier failed to airlift them to their destination.

Keyamo, was reacting to the recent report of UK Civil Aviation Authority (UKCAA) ramp inspection carried out on Air Peace aircraft on landing at Gatwick Airport, London, and leaked to the media against standard practice.

The report had indicated breaches by the airline, which had to do with the positioning of some devices in the aircraft to enhance flight operations and the pilot in command not heading to exit from the runway from a particular point as directed.

But the Nigerian carrier has since corrected the infractions to the satisfaction of UK authorities.

The Minister, in reacting to the incident said, “My attention has been drawn to recent media publications citing some issues allegedly relating to possible safety violations at the Gatwick Airport by Air Peace Airlines raised by Safety inspectors of the United Kingdom Civil Aviation Authority.

“We want to re-iterate that Air

Peace Airlines is the Nigerian flag carrier designated on the London route and as such enjoys the full backing and support of the Nigerian Government in its operation of that route.

“I have been adequately and reliably briefed on the progress made thus far on this issue by the acting Director General of the NCAA.

“I am informed that the safety issues raised had since been adequately addressed by the Management of Air Peace and promptly closed to the satisfaction of the UK authorities.

“I wish to state categorically that the Federal Government has full confidence in the continued safety of the operations of all Nigerian flag carriers designated on different international routes, including Air Peace and will continue to support and nudge them forward in pursuit of world class operational excellence.”

The Minister added: “For the avoidance of doubt, the Federal Government of Nigeria has put its full weight and might behind all the local airlines designated on international routes in their endeavours in prosecuting these operations and shall provide all the necessary assistance and cooperation to ensure their success. Air Peace is no exception in this regard.”

Meanwhile, the NCAA has condemned the maltreatment of over 300 Nigerians booked to travel with Turkish Airlines from the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos but were abandoned when the European carrier failed to airlift them to their destination.

The NCAA said it would not hesitate to invoke relevant sections of the Civil Aviation Regulations to

roll out stiff penalties and sanctions to Turkish Airlines over the airline’s maltreatment of Nigerians passengers stranded at the international wing of the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos, following its failure to airlift them to Istanbul.

The Authority said President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu who was miffed by the incident, directed the NCAA, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and other relevant agencies to ensure that the rights of Nigerian passengers were protected anywhere they might be facing challenges.

NCAA spokesman and Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr. Michael Achimugu, who made this known when he addressed newsmen at the Lagos airport yesterday, said currently, the NCAA was meditating on the disagreement between the European carrier and aviation

labour unions which picketed the airline's operations at the Lagos Airport on Tuesday.

Achimugu, said the federal government and its agencies would spare no efforts to call to order any airline that violates the rights of Nigerian passengers. According to him, the Director General of NCAA, Captain Chris Najomo, had in a virtual meeting on Tuesday from the United Kingdom initiated reconciliation moves between the Country Manager of Turkish Airlines and the unions, but the representative of the airline exhibited some traits of impudence, which the regulator deemed amounted to lack of regard for the system.

He confirmed that over 300 passengers were trapped in the labour crisis, which prompted the airline to cancel flights on Tuesday, Wednesday and today, to resume operations

tomorrow, after the unions have called off their three-day picketing of the airline’s operations.

“The NCAA is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the inability of Turkish Airlines to operate flights out of Lagos Airport, due to the picketing of its operations by aviation unions; we will ensure that the rights of Nigerian passengers are not violated,” he said.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) had on Tuesday commenced the picketing of Turkish Airlines in Lagos, in a bid for the carrier to reinstate staff that were dismissed, forced to abandon duty or forced to resign under duress, including those victimised for their union membership in 2020.

The NLC in earlier notice of picketing of Turkish Airlines in Lagos, signed by its acting General Secretary, Chris Ufot, had stated that all affiliate unions in aviation are particularly

charged to mobilise heavily for the picketing action without fail, adding that the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) council was to stand by in case there becomes a need to escalate the matter to Abuja airport.

Achimugu later visited the stranded passengers at the new terminal of the international airport where he conveyed the message of NCAA Director General to the stranded passengers, aassuring that the authority would not rest until they were airlifted to their various destinations.

The Director said “I assure you all that the NCAA is on top of your matter. We have met with officials of the Turkish Airlines today and we are working towards resolving the issues between the airline and the labour union to ensure that you are airlifted out this airport. The DG feels your pain, which is why we are here to attend to your plight.”

Segun James

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, yesterday, lamented that he lost a devoted aide and dependable public servant, his former Deputy Chief of Staff (DCoS) Mr. Gboyega Olumade Soyannwo, who died last week.

He said this at a Night of Tributes to share memories of his moments and encounters with Soyannwo.

Also, colleagues of the deceased

in the government, shared their encounters with the Soyannmo. 55, Soyannwo breathed his last on May 15, after a brief illness. He is survived by wife and two children.

Sanwo-Olu, and his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, led members of the State Executive Council, members of the state’s legislature and the judiciary to the Night of Tribute held at Alausa Sports Ground, as part of the funeral programmes organised for the deceased.

Experts Urge FG to Leverage Gaming, E-sports Industry to Attract Foreign Investments

Ugo

The Chief Executive Officer, Game Evolution Technologies, Solakunmi Adenipebi, has advised the federal government to leverage the gaming and e-Sports industry to attract direct foreign investments to Nigeria. He gave the advice during the Omniverse Gaming Tournament Prize Giving Ceremony in Lagos. Adenipebi, who noted that the nation needed to diversify from petroleum as a source of earnings, said that the gaming industry should be looked into by the federal government,

"Gaming is one of the biggest entertainment projects that should

be leveraged by the government so that they can bring in international countries to invest in Nigeria," Adenipebi said. He affirmed that since Nigeria has over 40 million youths who go into gaming now because of the advent of mobile phones, it is easier to have mobile gaming because mobile phones are easily accessible, which makes it easier for mobile e-sports to thrive in Nigeria.

"That is a very big way to allow international companies to come and invest in Nigeria because the population of youths playing video games in E-Sports is huge," he stated.

The event brought together 37 professional gamers who emerged

winners and received cheques of five million Naira as rewards.

Adenipebi said: "We had an e-sports tournament that held five different games. So we had a prize of N5 million, which was distributed for the different professional gamers and which is why we are here today to present the cheques to the winners.

“The 37 contestants were chosen through online registration, which was made open to everybody in Nigeria. So, we had gamers come all over from all over different states in Nigeria to compete at a centre. We went through different qualifications before we got to the finals.”

Speaking on the future of gaming

in Nigeria, the Game Evolution Technologies CEO remarked that gaming is one of the biggest entertainment and sports industries in the world right now.

He further explained that Nigeria was picking up very fast, as it been seen in terms of growth between 2019 and 2024, adding that over 1 million gamers had popped up from mobile gaming, which is actually now the biggest gaming industry in Nigeria.

Continuing, he added: "The future of e-Sports in Nigeria is huge as private industries are investing in e-Sports tournaments, e-Sports teams and they're also creating e-Sports coaching projects right now.

Sanwo-Olu, in an emotive tone, described the late Sayannwo as the “rallying point” in the Governor's Office, extolling the deceased’s commitment and his dedication to any cause to which he had conviction.

The governor, who said Soyannwo’s death was a personal loss to him, revealed that he and the deceased had been together for 20 years, as they both had their stints in the banking sector, before moving to the government together.

Sanwo-Olu recalled that the late Soyannwo was the first staff in his team immediately he declared his intention to run for governor, noting that the deceased showed up in his house 24 hours after with a well thought-out strategy to go about party primaries.

“From the moment I was sworn in till today, Gboyega had made me a better manager than I was. He helped me to be a better governor. He managed my daily itinerary and understood what the job entails.

“For once in the last five years when I appointed him as my Deputy Chief of Staff, I never had the cause to raise my voice at him because he fully understood the dynamics and tedious tasks of his office. He was the rallying point of my office.

“Gboyega made indelible impacts in the lives of each and every one of us. In the classes of the past and current cabinet, we have just lost our strongest confidant and a true

bridge builder.

“Gboyega would call me 33 times in 25 minutes and each call would be quick to get my final approval for tasks listed in my itinerary. I’ve lost a great friend, brother and cherished colleague. Lagos has lost one of its finest public servants. I will forever be thankful to God for making our paths cross.” Sanwo-Olu said the deceased was “fiercely loyal” and never coloured his official duties with friendship throughout his career, adding that smooth organisation was not only his main skill which stood him out as a professional banker.

“Give him a very difficult spreadsheet to analyse or transactions that anyone has no idea to unravel, Gboyega would resolve it in a simplified way. That’s how he started in banking industry,” Sanwo-Olu said. He continued: “I certainly will not be here to mourn Gboyega’s death, but to celebrate his life and legacy left behind in service of our great country. He has done more than anyone can expect of a 55-year-old. He showed us there is reward for hard work. Gboyega taught all of us how to live well and make lasting impact on humanity.” Hamzat recalled his first meeting with the late Soyannwo in 2018 ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial primaries, pointing out that the deceased was a man, who was careful with promises.

Aliogo

L-R: Former President Olusegun Obasanjo; Vice President Kashim Shettima; President, Ford Foundation, Mr. Darren Walker; former Nigeria Bar Association President, Abubakar Mahmoud and Executive Director Trust Africa, Ebrima Sall, during the summit on the State of Democracy in Africa held in Yar'Adua Center , Abuja.... yesterday .

PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI.

OPEYEMI BAMIDELE argues that the time to embrace the decentralised police model is now

IN SEARCH OF A NEW POLICE MODEL (2)

The proposal to adopt or establish State Police has viciously come under sustained attacks for different explanations. First, the conservatives have argued that the Governors will use it as an instrument of oppression against their perceived political enemies if the Federal Government shares policing powers with sub-national governments. This fear is indisputably tenable given the highhandedness of some Governors. However, does this really suggest that we should throw away the baby with bath water?

Second, other critics frequently cited the partisanship of the district, provincial and regional police in the First Republic to justify their opposition to the adoption of State Police. They explained how the political elite deployed the police operatives under their control against their perceived and potent political foes. For them, the creation of State Police can further deepen the subsisting regime of vicious impunity at the state level. Even though it might have failed before now, does it mean the state police model cannot succeed in this contemporary time, especially with the increasingly cascading response capacity of the Nigeria Police?

These explanations are not obviously convincing

enough to disapprove the proposal for State Police outright. And this can mainly be understood from different socio-economic and political dimensions. In the first instance, whether in principle or practice, Nigeria is a federation of 36 states, six geopolitical zones and one FCT. Ordinarily, the realities of Nigeria’s governance structure should define its national security architecture. This simply suggests that a centrally controlled police system can hardly be responsive enough in a federal context with unitarist foundation and pillars. Accordingly, a police system that will respond decisively to our internal challenges ought to reflect the intrinsic characters of our federation.

Globally, also, demography often determines the size, strategy and structure of the police system a federation will adopt. This singular attribute largely defines the way most emerging democracies protect their citizens; secure their collective assets and create an environment for a functional economy. Nigeria, as one of the world’s fastest growing populations, cannot continue operating a unitarist security architecture despite its strong federal tendencies. Such a policing model cannot meaningfully address existential threats to our internal cohesion and stability.

Unlike in 1979 when we had a population of 70.75 million, Nigeria is now a federation of 229 million people, currently the world’s sixth biggest country, as shown in the demographic data of the United Nations. Contrarily, as revealed in the recent presentation of the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, Nigeria has a police-citizen ratio of 1-650. This ratio is a far cry from a ratio of 1-460, which according to the United Nations, is a minimum requirement for every sovereign state or territory worldwide. This shortfall further

reinforces the dysfunctionality of the centrally controlled model we are currently operating.

Effective policing, therefore, is always a function of understanding the security environment. This evidently requires all operatives to understand the peculiarities of the security context without ambiguity. It also means they understand the culture, history, language and values of the people they are engaged to protect. It entails that they have built, even maintained a network of social capital that can help them function effectively. This suggests that they are familiar with their areas of responsibility, mainly the socio-economic dynamics that often breed internal challenges within the security environment.

As currently constituted, the Nigeria Police does not possess any of these attributes, which I strongly believe, is central to crafting an alternative national security architecture that will guarantee the protection of lives and property. In other words, the dysfunctionality of the current police system directly correlates to the prevalence of criminal incidents in virtually all states of the federation. This further justifies the public demand for an alternative police system that can deepen internal stability and incentivise diverse investors from within and without.

However, the progressives do not in any way share the conviction of the conservatives. Rather, in absolute terms, they propose the need to recraft Sections 214-216 of the 1999 Constitution to introduce local, state or regional police into the country’s security architecture. This also suggests the exigency of devolving policing powers to other federating units - local and state governments. It is not entirely new to Nigeria’s political system.

Until the promulgation of Decree No. 34 that birthed the unification of Nigeria in 1966, we had practised the decentralised police system under the First Republic. In this dispensation, as established in Section 105(7-8) of the 1963 Constitution, each regional, provincial and district government was statutorily vested with the power to create and operate its own police. But the 1966 coup heralded the military rule that dismantled the decentralised police structure we embraced at independence.

Rather than allow our fissures to determine our collective future, it is important to reassess the interplay of forces – cultural, economic, political, social or technological - that now shape security dynamics globally. As well, it is salient to look at the rationality of our choice, perhaps whether we should continue with a centralised police model as it is now or adopt a truly decentralised police model in the similitude of what we had in the First Republic.

As a federation, however, Nigeria cannot be left out in the matrix of new thinking that glaringly defines the world. In real terms, rationalism should, as a custom, shape the choice of police model we adopt and not what we are or what we are not. Put differently, our current socio-political realities or security dynamics ought to define our collective response. For me, the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution obviously avails us another opportunity to redefine our governance structure and recalibrate our security architecture as a people of collective purpose. But we must go about it with a clear sense of self-realisation.

We must, first and foremost, realise that the present police system is ailing and dysfunctional. We must also admit that the system can no longer guarantee the dignity of human lives and the security of collective assets considering our security dynamics in the Fourth Republic.

The President is determined to deliver on the Renewed Hope agenda, reckons RONKE BELLO

THE CURRENCY OF HOPE (3)

In the book “Learning How to Hope” Sarah M. Stitzlein describes hope (especially in a democracy) as a relationship between the leaders and the led, between government and the people. I would add that naturally, such a relationship from the viewpoint of the led is measured by the impacts obtained from policies, actions and performances of government. While the government aims to continually woo the masses with its well thought out and achievable goals, be it in the shortest, medium or long term, backing it up with brilliant implementations activates hope in the masses.

In my previous series, the concept of hope especially as a currency has been established, whether as defined by Desmond Tutu: “Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all the darkness” or Bola Ahmed Tinubu, “Without hope there is no life and without hope there is no salvation” or Paul Tremblay, “Hope is a desperate man’s currency”.

One thing is certain: we all need hope! The Renewed Hope Team to its credit in the past months have attempted in various ways to fly the hope flag. Hitting the ground running with policies on economy, agriculture, power, education, youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, healthcare, housing, national security and foreign policy and much more have

been initiated or reformed drawing largely from its Renewed Hope Campaign Blueprint which in itself was christened “Action Plan For A Better Nigeria”.

How have these policies faired?

Undoubtedly the administration is not taking public communication, information dissemination lightly. The belief that “communication is indeed the act of governance” is well understood. However disseminating information especially on public policies is one thing, whether the citizens understand the contents and its impact is another. On this, public communication strategies must be deliberate in breaking it down while also encompassing millions of citizens that neither read newspapers nor watch the news.

Furthermore, I agree with the academic and general rule that until citizens are indeed participants of public policies there would always be an uproar or pushback against some if not all policies that the people see as harsh and stifling. This can drive the government into policy reversals, policy suspensions or outright policy summersaults which in turn and by default “empowers” the masses even though these policies in themselves are excellent.

Our Renewed Hope Agenda that won on the platform of our great party the All Peoples Congress has had a few of these. A major example recently is the suspension of the cybersecurity levy. It is better to have a leader who is present and empathetic than one frozen in indifference. Without doubt, the president and his team have good intentions and are in a hurry to deliver on mandates.

Picking few tips from The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Policy Brief might be useful. “That citizens are engaged in Policy-formulation through Information, Consultation and Public Participation. That the benefits of these included strengthening relations

with citizens which is a sound investment in better policy-making and a core element of good governance. That this allows governments to tap new sources of policy-relevant ideas, information and resources before or when making decisions and these contribute to building public trust in government and raising the quality of democracy”.

In a nutshell, citizens through their representatives and the leaders at sub national levels are more likely to understand and buy into these policies if they the people are contributors to its formation. In a matter of days we shall be rolling out drums to celebrate our first year anniversary and naturally there shall be various opinions and viewpoints, applauses and knocks, cheers and jeers.

We must be prepared and take all in good faith! It has been a fast year and suddenly it is here upon us… with three more years to go which mostly are progressively interwoven with political interferences and activities. Presently some will argue that a huge percentage of the masses are angry and disenfranchised. This is because their understanding of democracy and good governance is measured not by some intangible assets but by quality of daily life and living in general.

Yes, inflation especially on food items and medicine, power blackouts, unemployment rates, insecurity to mention a few are still issues of great concern. However, the Tinubu administration thus far has equally recorded some Hope Renewing and far reaching achievements that can be considered quick wins with far reaching impacts. These include: Attracting short and longterm foreign investments to Nigeria, with the hope that such investments would stimulate and accelerate the job markets, increase productivity and fast track economic growth. These foreign investment drive according to the nation’s Minister of Information and National Orientation in a regular media briefing is in excess of 30 billion USD, across various sectors.

The Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund (RHIDF), a direct intervention in the construction, repairs and upgrading of our nation’s roads, airports seaports, power plants, etc. Targeted Economic Support Schemes: grants, education loans, food items, fertilizer distribution, cash transfers, health insurance and consumer credit. Great examples are the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CrediCorp) and the Nano business scheme.

On Foreign Policy, Nigeria remains an active player at the sub regional level, on the African continent and on the global stage. With the foreign policy approach, dubbed the ‘Tinubu Doctrine: a ‘4-D Diplomacy Strategy’ which according to the government is a policy centered on promoting democracy, driving economic development, harnessing Nigeria’s demographic potential, and engaging with the Diaspora community.

These are by no way exhaustive as every MDA is indeed up and running even as the nation awaits a robust and encompassing profile of achievements as part of the forthcoming anniversary. Without doubt the President by words and actions is determined to deliver on the Renewed Hope agenda. An agenda that has moved past just being a mere slogan or policy theme to a call of faith, knowing that the Tinubu Administration has a pact, in fact a covenant with Nigerians and will not rest on its oars until our country is secured, prosperous, peaceful, envied and egalitarian. Happy First Year Anniversary!

Bello, (Ph.D.), academic, publicist, policy analyst and author writes from Abuja.

Senator Bamidele, CON, Leader of the 10th Senate, writes from Abuja

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

THE LATEST WORLD BANK BLACKLIST

The sanctions by the World Bank Group hold lessons for government and the anti-graft agencies

Last week, the ‘World Bank Listing of Ineligible Firms and Individuals Notes on Debarred Firms and Individuals’ for this year was released with 59 Nigerian companies and individuals blacklisted for engaging in corrupt practices and other procurement offences. Among those affected are 39 Nigerian companies previously debarred by the African Development Bank, (AfDB), along with 19 individuals identified by the World Bank under the cross-debarment policy. Ordinarily, the sanctions by the World Bank Group should serve as a wake-up call to both the government, the anti-graft agencies, the National Assembly, and apex regulatory bodies. Unfortunately, attention is hardly ever paid to such reports.

For far too long, Nigeria’s image has taken a bashing on the international scene due to several unwholesome practices by some players in the private and public space. From corruption in public office, peddling of drugs, email, and other Internet scams, some of our nationals have been implicated to our collective shame. Although Nigeria recorded an improved ranking in the latest Corruption Perception Index (CPI) by Transparency International (TI) released in January, moving five places up to rank 145 out of 180 countries assessed, the challenge is still huge. By scoring 25 out of the 100 maximum points in the 2023 CPI results, according to TI, Nigeria still places below the sub-Saharan African average of 33 points.

tribunal in all contested cases of sanctionable misconduct occurring in the projects handled by the bank. The sanctions were imposed following an administrative process conducted by the Bank, which allowed the accused firms and individuals to respond to the allegations. Interestingly, the debarments made by the AfDB were recognised by the World Bank, making the affected firms barred under crossdebarment policy. Each of the sanctions related to a finding that the firms or individuals had engaged in at least one of the five sanctionable practices – fraud, corruption, collusion, coercion, or obstruction – while participating in World Bank-funded projects. The individuals and firms were associated with strong indictments by the World Bank, not only against them but also by implication, on how we do business in Nigeria.

To be consistently rated low on issues of transparency and accountability is a sad reminder of what we have left undone in terms of judicious allocation of resources for the benefit of the populace

T H I S D AY

EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU

DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE

MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI

EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

That 59 out of 1210 blacklisted individuals and companies worldwide are Nigerians is another emblem of shame. To be consistently rated low on issues of transparency and accountability is a sad reminder of what we have left undone in terms of judicious allocation of resources for the benefit of the populace. There is therefore an urgent need for more transparency and accountability not only in government but also in the private sector.

The WBG Sanctions Board comprises seven external judges and serves as an independent administrative

T H I S D AY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA

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

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE

DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI

SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI

CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI

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

Letters to the Editor

It is unfortunate that the breaches for which the 59 individuals and firms were sanctioned by the World Bank are usually treated with kid gloves by relevant agencies in our shores. They range from fraudulent and collusive practices, and misrepresentation of past experiences in a bid for a road maintenance contract (falsehood), among others. Firms that run afoul of the law here escape sanctions due to the social status of their promoters, partisan leaning or the fact that some of them are either owned by highly placed public officials or indulge in influence-peddling.

Corruption, the World Bank has often stressed, diverts scarce development resources “from the people who need them most and corrodes the systems and services that are integral for reducing extreme poverty” and that’s why authorities in Nigeria cannot continue to ignore the reports. The unwholesome acts for which the World Bank Group bared its fangs on these

Nigerian companies and individuals largely account for the situation in our country today. Both the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) should show interest in the World Bank report.

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.

END ILLEGAL CLOSURE OF BANEX PLAZA

Last Saturday, a clash occurred between some traders and three soldiers over a phone sale dispute at Banex Plaza located at Wuse 2 district of Abuja. The police promptly arrested the suspects and took them to the FCT police headquarters. According to the FCT Police Command spokesperson, Josephine Adeh:

“Preliminary investigation revealed that one Suleiman Ahmed who had earlier gotten a phone from one Suleiman Ibrahim, a shop owner at New Banex, went with four soldiers to persuade the seller for replacement upon discovery that the phone is faulty, which met the resistance of the shop owner.

“This action resulted in a confrontation and squabble with the military personnel. This development led some irate mobs to attack the military personnel, which led to an uproar in the environs.

“All parties were invited for questioning. The military personnel have been handed over to their organisation for necessary action to be taken.

“While normalcy has since been restored in Banex and its environs, the Commissioner of Police FCT, Benneth Igweh urges residents to peacefully go about their lawful businesses without fear from any quarters.”

Shortly thereafter, about 50 armed soldiers invaded the Banex Plaza and shut it down. Instead of calling the soldiers who closed the market to order the military authorities have justified the resort to self-help. Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, Army spokesman, has said that the plaza was temporarily shut so as to take time to fish out the hoodlums behind Saturday’s incident. Neither the Constitution nor the Armed Forces Act authorises the Nigerian Army to investigate criminal offences involving citizens who are not subject to service law.

It is high time that the armed forces were made to realise that in a country where the rule of law operates, institutions and individuals are not permitted to take the law into their hands. Therefore, the Chief of Army Staff, General Lagbaja, should ensure that the Banex Plaza is reopened without any further delay. The soldiers who were beaten up in the market should be advised to press charges against their assailants. Since the scuffle in the market was video recorded, it should not be difficult for the police to identify the suspects and arraign them for assault occasioning harm.

Femi Falana, SAN, Lagos

BANNING THE COLOURS

When does the silliness stop? It's hard to tell which is worse, Gender reveal parties or an attempt to ban them as is proposed in Britain. Strangely for such a modern approach there seems to only be pink or blue versions whereas there are a number of other ways people identify themselves.

In the more saner times, a doctor or nurse would say what the birth gender was and word would spread swiftly amongst the community. Now, as YouTube will verify, there are numerous approaches, seemingly for Social Media usage, and not all of them safe much less sensible.

The ever informative Wikipedia adds more details including, numerous fires and a few deaths from flying components.

Surely just telling granny will be faster, more effective, and less dangerous. Banning people from doing stupid things, especially if they get likes, has been shown to be virtually impossible.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia

Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com

Wike vs Fubara: A Prophecy Foretold

Etim Etim writes about the face-off between Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers state and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike and submitted that the former stands a better chance to win the political supremacy war.

In December, 2023, I wrote an article titled ‘’Wike, Fubara and the 48 Laws of Power’’ in which I predicted that Governor Sim Fubara of Rivers state will emerge victorious in the war of attrition between him and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. The intervention was prompted by President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to facilitate a truce between the two and the subsequent peace resolutions that emerged from the presidency.

Fubara had eagerly conceded some grounds to Wike and endorsed the peace treaty. For some, that was a sign of weakness. A TV anchor, fuming said to me, ‘’The governor is too weak. How could he have agreed to such an agreement?’’

But I understood the whole thing differently, having studied and participated in Nigerian politics for a while.

In the December article, I wrote in the opening paragraph, ‘’In words and actions, Governor Siminalayi Fubara has shown that he is a good student of history and power dynamics. He has surprised and outsmarted his enemies and impressed his admirers in the manner with which he’s dealt with the political crisis in his state’’.

I went further to state that ‘’we need to pay attention to Fubara’s strategy in the context of Nigeria’s politics of avarice, corruption and application of power to serve selfish interest’’. I argued that Fubara was applying some of the laws of power well-articulated by Robert Greene in his famous book, ‘’48 Laws of Power’’, notably the 3rd, 12th, 21st and 33rd law, while Wike was busy flouting the 34th law.

Today, all signs point to the fact that Fubara has used his incumbency advantage to dislodge Wike’s base from the politics of the state. He has driven away the pro-Wike members of the House of Assembly and completely taken over the legislature.

There are only four members of the House of Assembly left – all pro-Fubara - as the State High Court has declared the seats of 27 proWike members vacant. The court has also

Olawale: Adeleke’s

sacked Local Government chairmen appointed by Wike, and just the other day, the governor has appointed eight new commissioners to replace Wike’s men in his government.

Furthermore, Wike has lost the support of key stakeholders in the state, including former governor Peter Odili, who was his major backer before this war broke out.

Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has also recently weighed in and publicly reprimanded Wike for stoking the crisis.

Fubara is reaching out to and enticing every important person in the state with favours and patronage. Clearly,

Wike’s influence` is waning fast. My December prognosis has come out spot on. It is a prophecy foretold.

In the PDP, the FCT minister has been equally sidelined. He has made too many enemies for his own good. Ali Modu Sheriff; Ahmed Markarfi; Uche Secondus and Iyorchia Ayu are all former National Chairmen of the PDP whom Wike humiliated out of office just because they refused to be pocketed by him. Of course, the Baba of that party, Atiku Abubakar, will never have anything to do with him again. None of his other predecessors – Peter Odili; Celestine Omehia and Rotimi Amaechi – is his friend. Odili was his major supporter until the crisis broke out. The old man has since realized that

in the snake pit of Nigeria’s politics, it is safer to side with the incumbent governor. That’s why Nasir el Rufai is treading softly with his successor, Senator Uba Sani.

Wike underrated his successor and is paying dearly for his bad judgement. I posit that Wike’s final political waterloo will unfold during the next PDP congresses. That’s when his beloved ‘structure’ will finally collapse. Meanwhile, presidency insiders and APC strategists are watching the whole drama with some discomfiture and amazement. First, they are embarrassed that the truce negotiated by the President has been discarded; and that’s a sign of disrespect to the president.

Second, they’re astonished that the FCT minister has been practically dislodged from the state. The initial assumption within the APC was that Wike would be in control of Fubara and the PDP in Rivers, amass all the cash till 2027 and use the war chest to launch a blitzkrieg into Akwa Ibom, Delta and Enugu or Abia.

In terms of his official duties, the FCT minister seems to be doing well. Many residents are impressed that he’s completing long abandoned roads and other projects in Abuja. They are not interested in the crisis in his home state. But the politicians within the APC are wondering what to make of the situation. Here now are what to expect.

Wike will lose out completely within the PDP and will defect to the APC around 2026 with folks like Senator Magnus Abe. The minister will move to assume leadership of his new party, APC, in the state, but would be resisted by chieftains like Tonye Cole and all those he had offended within the party.

Nonetheless, since former governors automatically assume leadership of a party in the state where the incumbent governor is from another party, Wike will, one way or the other, anoint a governorship candidate in APC and launch a serious campaign to unseat Fubara. Will he succeed?

Performance Will Earn Him Second Term as Osun Gov

Media adviser to Governor ademola adeleke of Osun State, Mallam Rasheed Olawale, in this interview speaks on the massive projects and policies being pursued in the State of the Living Spring by his principal which he said is not only felt but visible for all to see. Yinka Kolawole brings excerpts:

What is the trust of Governor Ademola Adeleke’s Administration?

Basically, the Governor has a five-point agenda dwelling on workers welfare, local content, infra upgrades, social sector investment alongside agro-industrialization, digital economy and climate adaptation and remediation. On all counts, the Governor is delivering excellently despite being less than two years in office.

How is your government trying to establish good internal democracy within the party?

Mr Governor is an agent of inclusive leadership, hence his standing policy of accommodating dissenting voices within the party and even outside. Just recently, the Governor chaired an institutionalized elders committee meeting with top leaders from various angles of the party included.

The Osun PDP is a big umbrella which gives room for all party faithful except those with proven cases of anti-party activities.

As an Image maker of the government, how would you deploy public relations to sustain the present administration ?

We plan to reinforce existing partnerships with the media and brand community. We are expanding reach out mechanisms within and beyond the newsroom. While appreciating the goodwill and support of the media, we are focussing on delivering on good governance, rule of law and the governor’s five-point agenda. A good product is easing public

relations and further weakening the opposition.

Why did you have constant headache with the opposition party in the state?

Basically, it has to do with our diligence, persistence and consistency at promoting and defending our principal. Our preemptive and proactive approach to management

of the media angle of the Osun political space pitches us against opposition forces.

We are targeted because our team readily documents the gigantic service delivery of our boss; his many policy innovations alongside puncturing with facts the many opposition sponsored fake news.

Their headache about us is our ruggedness in the defence, promotion and marketing of Governor Adeleke.

The opposition party, APC plans to exit your government in the coming gubernatorial election in the state, what is your take on this?

An impartial reading of Osun political space will confirm that there is no vacancy in Abere Government House come 2026.

When Mr Governor was not yet tested, he beat the opposition both in 2018 and 2022. After his election, he proved naysayers wrong by his widely acknowledged super performance as attested to by workers, pensioners and all strata of Osun society.

In 2026 , Governor Adeleke will win again for several reasons namely factors behind his winning in 2018 and 2022 still exist; his performance has deepened his hold on the state; the elite are now convinced and impressed by his competency and public spiritedness; the Governor’s political capital has expanded through new local and national alliances; his street credibility remains ever potent and more importantly the God of power is very much in love with little David, Governor Adeleke.

Did you think your government has really done well in the area of Infrastructural development ?

Very well. A multi billion naira infra plan is under implementation covering four flyover bridges, dualization of several roads, construction of at least two kilometers of roads in each local government, upgrade with solar and water facilities, of almost 400 primary healthcare centers, reconstruction of several local bridges,complete renovation of several schools, provision of water projects including award of water works projects at Ora, among many others.

Osun is currently a huge construction site. So far, over 90 kilometers of roads are completed in under two years. Inherited half salary and pension debt of almost 100 billion are being paid with all state pensioners enrolled in health insurance alongside medical outreach with over 50, 000 beneficiaries.

What is your take about members defecting from your Party, the PDP to APC in recent times?

The fact is that those reportedly defecting were expelled from the party for the past one year due to anti-party activities during the 2022 election. Except those already expelled from the party, PDP remains strong and united behind Mr Governor. The likes of former Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Dr Olu Alabi, Alhaji Fatai Akinbade, Chief Shuaib Oyedokun and many others are strong members of Osun PDP Elders forum.

The PDP and its Governor, Ademola Adeleke remain unbeatable now and in 2026.

Fubara

Olawale

Wike

Telcos Seek Engagement with FG to

Telecoms operators (Telcos) have called on the federal government to immediately engage with them for proper mapping and relocation of the submarine cables that were laid beneath the earth surface at the Lagos axis of the proposed Lagos-Calabar coastal road.

They are worried that the cables could be damaged, and internet connectivity disrupted when the Lagos-Calabar coastal road construction begins, According to them, several submarine cables like SAT-3, MainOne, Glo 1, WACS and ACE, which came from Europe, covering thousands of kilometres, with landing stations in Lagos, are likely to be damaged if they are not re-routed before the commencement of construction work on the proposed Lagos-Calabar coastal road. The Telcos warned that if the

Emma Okonji and Agnes Ekebuike

Following the completion of the first phase of the 2,700km metro fibre project across the state, Lagos State government said it has commenced the second phase of the 3,300km metro fibre project, designed to fully digitise government services and to build Safe City that is fully digitalised.

Lagos State Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Mr. Olatunbosun Alake, who disclosed this during the 2024 ministerial press briefing in Lagos recently, said the second phase project would provide

submarine cables were not properly relocated before commencement of the road construction, it would likely cause serious damage to the cables and disrupt internet connectivity across the country.

At a recent meeting between members of the Association of Telecoms Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) and the Federal Ministry of Works, which held in Lagos, and led by the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos State, Mrs. Olukorede Keisha, ATCON members drew the attention of the federal government to the current challenges there are facing with SAT3 submarine cable that was improperly relocated during the construction of Eko Atlantic City in Lagos.

According to them, SAT-3 was poorly relocated during the Eko Atlantic project and up till this moment SAT-3 is still experiencing power failure and its efficiency

access to internet connectivity across the state, adding that the goal of Lagos government is to lay 6,000km metro fibre cables across Lagos, before 2027.

“Through the metro fibre project, we are in a mission to digitise government services for Lagos State residence, enhance efficiency and transparency, ensuring faster and more reliable service delivery, while reducing corruption. It will increase accessibility and convenience by making services available online 24/7and promoting cost savings by minimising the need for physical infrastructure and manual processes. Lagos government is currently building a digital stack

has been seriously compromised because of the unprofessional re-routing by the road workers.

ATCON members therefore advised the federal government to engage meaningfully with telecoms operators for proper relocation of all the seven submarine cables that have landing points at the shores of Lagos, to avoid total internet disruption across the country.

Speaking during the meeting, Keisha said the meeting was called to further deliberate on the planned construction of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway. She said the meeting became necessary because the Federal Ministry of Works realised that there were some telecoms infrastructures buried along those corridors, which must be carefully relocated and aligned with the master drawing of the project.

Dr. Eugene Itua of Natural Eco Capital, however listed things to

that will enable it to increase of pace of government digitisation. It will enable citizen engagement, contribute to environmental sustainability and support economic growth and innovation,” Alake said.

According to him, the metro fibre project is a joint Public-Private Partnership (PPP) project, where the private sector is providing the majority of the funding, while Lagos government is providing little part of the funding.

“The PPP model allows Lagos government to spend less of tax payer’s money and do more of the enabling environment that will help the private sector succeed in providing internet connectivity to

be done by the federal government before the commencement of LagosCalabar coastal highway to include decommissioning of all facilities on the corridor and relocating them in a most professional manner. He called on telecoms operators to mark where they have facilities along the route to avoid any form of damages during construction work, adding that best practice for sustainability will be employed to achieve hitch-free project execution.

“Federal Ministry of Works has taken into consideration areas where submarine cables were located. Government will work with submarine cable owners to know the location of their cables, pretty much so that provision of 7.5metres duct has been made for utility corridors,” Keisha said.

Executive Secretary of ATCON, Mr. Ajibola Olude, said: “The association represents many telecoms companies that are likely

the people of Lagos,” he said.

He explained that for over the past 36 months, Lagos government has deployed over 2,700 kilometers of fiber optic cable in the first phase of the project. This has gone a long way in improving connectivity, reducing the cost of connectivity, not just for individuals, but for also for telecoms companies.

“We have also deployed over 2,700 kilometers of fiber optic docks that will enable telecoms companies connect easily to the metro fibre cable for the provision of fast internet service,” Alake added.

Alake said it would help to bring down the cost of internet deployment, thereby passing on

to be affected when the execution of the highway starts, if proper relocation exercise is not carried out. ATCON therefore request that the association be carried along as the project commences and ATCON is ready to work closely with the Federal Ministry of Works to ensure that all telecoms facilities along the earmarked route are carefully relocated.”

Also worried about the likely impact of the planned construction of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway on telecoms facilities, especially submarine cables, Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbenga Adebayo, said telecoms operators had earlier received approval on Right of Way (RoW) from government before routing the submarine cables along that axis after they landed at the shores of the country. According to him,

those savings to subscribers. So, ultimately, Lagos State is trying to bring down the cost of internet connectivity in the state, and as such, Lagos subscribers can see some of the accomplishments we’ve made to reduce cost of service delivery, Alake said.

Addressing the Lagos Safe City project, he said it would involve the deployment of intelligent video cameras in strategic locations in the state with the execution and completion spread over time in phases one, two and three respectively, adding that 450 surveillance cameras have been deployed at strategic locations across the city of Lagos.

federal government ought to have followed the distance approved for RoW for telecoms facilities when mapping out Lagos-Calabar coastal high way, to avoid encroaching on the corridors of existing telecoms facilities.

“Federal government did not consult telecoms operators when mapping the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway. We suffered telecoms cable damage during the construction of Lagos-Ibadan highway and we will not want to suffer such damages on the LagosCalabar coastal high way, because of the ripple effect it would create on internet connectivity across the country,” Adebayo said. He therefore called on the federal government to begin consultations with telecoms operators in order to have meaningful discussions on the relocation of the submarine cables and the cost implications for the relocation.

He said the Lagos State Science Research and Innovation Council (LASRIC), would play a significant role in driving technology innovation that would boost the Lagos Safe City project. According to him, LASRIC has commenced funding of startups, research and development programmes across the state.

“LASRIC has the mandate to promote innovation awareness, manage the Research and Innovation Fund, and foster local and international collaboration to address local and global challenges. LASRIC has funded over 60 tech startups, over 50 researches with over N800 million grants given out,” Alake said.

Emma Okonji

UBA@ 75: Making of The Brand’s Corporate Personality

raheem Akingbolu reviews 75 years of United Bank for Africa Plc operation, touching on the bank’s milestones, its memorable campaigns and how Tony Elumelu’s can-do-spirit impacted on the brand’s corporate personality

The story of today’s United Bank for Africa (UBA) is that of not giving up despite all odds. Like every corporate entity, UBA has recorded both low and high moments but its promoters have consistently fixed their eyes on the ball and remain guided by the vision of its founding fathers; “to be the undisputed leading and dominant financial services institution in Africa.”

Perhaps the number one factor that has continuously worked for the brand lies in its name -United Bank for Africa. True to its name, UBA became stronger as a real bank of destiny, after the industry consolidation between 2004 and 2005, which changed the dynamics of banking in the country.

The name was to play a bigger role and claim its destiny of pan-Africa nomenclature when leading Nigerian banks were making inroads into other African countries. From Ghana to Cote d’lvoire, Cameroon to Congo DRC, down to Gabon, UBA’s natural identity opened doors with ease. This could not be said of other brands that struggled and deplored huge campaigns to tell customers in their new markets that the brand they brought was pan-African. Thus, UBA has demonstrated over the years that names are an incredibly important part of brands’ identity because they carry deep cultural, familial, and historical connections. Of course, it also gives a brand a sense of who it is, the society in which it belongs, and its place in the market.

The PAsT

United Bank for Africa was one of the most iconic banking brands of the 70s and 80s. This was before its merger with the Standard Trust Bank some 18 years ago.

While it belonged to the exclusive club of first generation banks, UBA has been able to combine age with modernism that warmed into the minds of its customers. Many analysts have linked the youthfulness and modernism of the brand to the 2005 marriage between the old UBA and the then Standard Trust Bank (STB), which appeared to target the youth and students market more than any of the then existing banks in the country.

The chief promoter of the UBA brand, Tony Elumelu, who established STB in 1997, aptly captured it recently during the reunion of the old STB team. He admitted that he came in with the youthful brand at the time to redefine the face of banking in Nigeria.

“As CEO of STB, I wanted to challenge the status quo and democratise access to banking in Nigeria – and then Africa. What was a dream, quickly became a reality. The symbol we chose – the mustard seed – the logo of UBA, has truly borne fruit,” he said while welcoming old colleagues to the reunion.

Though Elumelu admitted that achieving what he targeted was not easy, the STB Lions and Lionesses, as they called themselves then, worked day and night to execute that vision. According to him, these successes laid the groundwork for the largest financial services transaction in Africa to date, the merger of STB and UBA Group in 2005.

In the mid 80s, UBA came up with one of its most timeless advertising and promotional classics, ‘Wise men Bank with UBA’. Immediately this campaign hit the airwaves, there was a backlash as the Bank was accused of male chauvinism by claiming that only wise men were banking with UBA. ‘What if women?’ A newspaper columnist asked famously.

The furore brought the best out of those managing the UBA brand then. They didn’t drop the iconic material. They simply went back to the production laboratory to rework the material with more attention and delivered an arresting copy: “Wise men bank with UBA. And women too with UBA. Save your counts and your money with UBA.” And that was it. The ability of the bank to

reinvent itself played out pointedly during its merger with Standard Trust Bank. While the bank was facing challenges then, it was generally believed that it was a stronger brand than the then STB. And that was why it was agreed that the name ‘UBA’ must be retained in the new logo after the merger but adopted the ‘STB’ logo -the mustard seed in front of the name ‘UBA’.

Another iconic material of the brand was the ‘World in Your Pocket Campaign’, which was conceptualised to subtly announce to the banking public that UBA has become a global brand with branches in 20 African countries and four global financial nerve centres (New York, London, Paris and Dubai). In the campaign, a suave-looking corporate personality was showcased while bestriding the corporate world with confidence because he has UBA as a partner.

Meanwhile, UBA remains the only Sub-Saharan financial institution to operate a deposit-taking license in the United States of America. UBA America is 40 year-old old.

The FUTUre

On Monday this week, the bank and its promoters further pushed its global narrative with a global press conference to announce UBA’s 75th anniversary as a bank in Nigeria with a peep into a past that was filled with success stories

and enduring legacy milestones of achievements. The occasion was used to announce that the bank would this week seek shareholders’ approval for its recapitalisation plans.

While assuring that the bank is poised to meet the deadline as it kicked off its year long 75th anniversary activities, the bank’s Group Managing Director, Oliver Alawuba, said the recapitalisation became necessary to meet the N500 billion new capital base set by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

He noted that the bank would over the next years focus on increasing its presence in the countries where it currently operates, adding that the bank will also focus on supporting small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs).

To the bank, the past 75 years have been marked by stability and excellence, pillars upon which UBA’s legacy stands tall. The bank was the first bank in Nigeria to offer an initial public offering (IPO) in 1970, the first Nigerian bank to be listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), now Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX).

It was also the first bank of African origin in the USA and UAE and the first bank in Nigeria to install Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and open a campus branch at the University of Lagos in Nigeria.

UBA was the first Nigerian bank to open a subsidiary in Africa (Ghana

“Amidst economic challenges and market dynamics, UBA has demonstrated remarkable financial strength and resilience. Its splendid performance, especially within the last year, is a testament to the robust fundamentals and sound strategic decisions taken by the bank.”

in 2005), appointed the first female board chairperson in Nigeria and was a pioneer in introducing mobile banking in Nigeria. It also launched the first multi-lingual chatbot banking in Nigeria called Leo as well as the first Nigerian bank to launch the most successful prepaid cards across Africa.

While honouring past leaders of the bank for their steadfastness, Alawuba appreciated the sacrifices, contributions, support and guidance over the years of the current Group Chairman, Mr. Tony Elumelu.

He said: “We appreciate and honour you because you built and nurtured the platform on which we are standing today. Our Group Chairman truly deserves special recognition and mention.

“Without his visionary push in 2005 and tutelage over the years, I doubt whether we would be where we are today. For these and more, we say a big and resounding thank you to him.”

He also used the opportunity to thank all customers of UBA around the globe as their consistent support and patronage over the years have been amasing.

He said: “You meet several people, they will tell you that they are third or fourth generation of UBA customers in their families, that their grandparents and parents were customers of UBA and their children currently carry UBA ATM cards, enrolled on our mobile banking and LEO chatbot banking. This is the strength of UBA.

“This milestone is not just a celebration of longevity, but a testament to resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to excellence that have defined UBA’s journey over the decades.

“As we reflect on the significance of this epoch-making event, it is important to acknowledge that UBA means different things to different people. For some, UBA is a trusted financial partner; for others, UBA is a beacon of stability and reliability, a development partner in various local communities as well as a catalyst for African development.

“Since its inception in 1949, UBA has evolved from a modest beginning on Lagos Island to a global financial institution with a presence in 20 African countries and 4 global financial nerve centres (New York, London, Paris and Dubai).

“Today we have over 25,000 staff, over 35 million customers served through multiple channels – over 350,000 POS terminals, 2,000 ATM terminals, 1,000 business offices and 19.7 million card customers.

“Amidst economic challenges and market dynamics, UBA has demonstrated remarkable financial strength and resilience. Its splendid performance, especially within the last year, is a testament to the robust fundamentals and sound strategic decisions taken by the bank.” For the UBA brand, the first 75 years have come and gone with its own story of ups and downs, but the next 75 years can only be better.

Coca Cola Approves €0.93 Dividend for Shareholders

Coca-Cola HBC AG has approved a dividend of €0.93 per share dividend out if its general capital contribution reserve capped at CHF 375,000,000.

In a statement issued at its Annual General Meeting (AGM), the company stated that the payment of the full amount of the dividend will be made on 24th of June 2024 to holders of ordinary shares on the record date of 31 May 2023.

The statement added that the shares are expected to be traded ex-dividend as of 30th May 2024, in which case the last day on which the shares may be traded with the entitlement to receive dividends will be 29 May 2024.

Coca-Cola HBC is a growthfocused consumer packaged goods business and strategic bottling partner of The CocaCola Company.

“We open up moments that refresh us all, by creating

value for our stakeholders and supporting the socio-economic development of the communities in which we operate. With a vision to be the leading 24/7 beverage partner, we offer drinks for all occasions around the clock and work together with our customers to serve 740 million consumers across a broad geographic footprint of 29 countries,” the statement read.

According to the statement its portfolio is one of the strongest, broadest and most flexible in the beverage industry, with consumerleading beverage brands in the sparkling, adult sparkling, juice, water, sport, energy, ready-to-drink tea, coffee, and premium spirits categories.

“These include CocaCola,Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Fanta, Sprite, Schweppes, Kinley, Costa Coffee, Caffè Vergnano, Valser, FuzeTea, Powerade, Cappy, Monster Energy, Finlandia Vodka, The

Macallan, Jack Daniel’s and Grey Goose,” Coca Cola said.

“We foster an open and inclusive work environment amongst our 32,000 employees and believe that building a more positive environmental impact is integral to our future growth. We rank among the top sustainability performers in ESG benchmarks such as the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices, CDP, MSCI ESG, FTSE4Good and ISS ESG,” the report added.

Coca Cola also stressed that as previously announced on 19 April 2024 Olusola (Sola) David-Borha and Alexandra Papalexopoulou would not be seeking re-election to the Board and retired from the Board as of the conclusion of the AGM.

At the AGM, Coca-Cola HBC’s shareholders elected Zulikat Wuraola Abiola and Glykeria Tsernou as new non- executive members of the Board.

Wema Bank to RewardCustomers with N10m in Final Promo Draw

Wema Bank, Nigeria’s foremost innovative bank and pioneer of Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, is set to wrap up the season 3 edition of its remarkable reward initiative, the 5 for 5 Promo, in a grand finale slated for Friday, May 31, 2024, in Lagos.

“Wema Bank 5 for 5 Promo is a reward initiative introduced by the Bank in 2019 with the goal of rewarding its customers for their active loyalty to the brand and its products. Through the 5 for 5 Promo, customers of the Bank have enjoyed financial support

for their personal, business and professional life. Executed via thoroughly regulated monthly draws per season, the Wema Bank 5 for 5 Promo through a raffle draw selects winners from the Bank’s pool of active and transacting customers, based on the minimum requirements and modalities of the season.

Referencing the Bank’s intention for the 5 for 5 Promo, the Head, Brands & Marketing Communications at Wema Bank, Mabel Adeteye, expressed gratitude to customers of the Bank for their continued support

throughout Wema Bank’s 79-year journey.

“At Wema Bank, our world revolves around our people and customers. Their support is what has got us this far so it’s only natural that we seize every opportunity to give back to them and fulfil our goal of providing optimum value for every stakeholder, “she said Encouraging Nigerians to take advantage of the last draw of the 5 for 5 Promo Season 3, Adeteye, elucidated the minimum requirements for qualification.

Capital Hotels’ Shareholders Elated at 42% Growth in 2023

Ejiofor Alike

Shareholders of Capital Hotels Plc, owners of Abuja Continental Hotel Hotel, formerly Sheraton Hotel, have commended the board and management for the 42 per cent growth recorded in 2023 and the fast pace of development since its new owners acquired it.

At its 43rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at the company’s flagship property in Abuja, the shareholders said despite the harsh economic environment in the country, especially in 2023, the management has continued to grow and make profit for its

investors.

The President of Abuja Shareholders Association, Chief Innocent Peter Nwokocha, who spoke at the AGM commended the Managing Director of the Hotel, Mr. Ravi Bachu, for growing the assets and adding value to what they took over at inception.

Nwokocha said his assessment of the hotel’s progress so far has given him sufficient reason to be hopeful that in the years to come, the growth would manifest in significant returns on investment for shareholders.

While thanking the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the hotel, Ramesh Kansagra, for his humility, Nwokocha said the level of profit declared at the

end of the 2023 financial year could be excused as a result of the massive renovation of the hotel to raise its status to enviable standard.

Expressing hope that next year would definitely be better, Nwokocha urged the management to consider and appreciate shareholders’ welfare as the hotel returns to its good old days courtesy of the new investors

In his speech, one of the founding shareholders, Philip Okala, who also commended the management and staff for the ongoing massive uplift at the hotel and facilities, urged the present managers to make the hospitality firm regain its enviable glory in the sector.

Abbey Mortgage Bank To Engage Shareholders On Strategic Goals

Abbey Mortgage Bank is set to engage its valued shareholders on strategic goals and present to them the bank’s result and accounts for the full year ended December 31, 2023.

The bank stated that it is excited to announce its 32nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled for May this year.

This year’s AGM, themed ‘Agile Tenacity,’ will highlight the Bank’s financial achievements in 2023, outline strategic goals, and engage with valued shareholders.

Shareholders and the public are expected to participate online to watch the board and executive

management review the bank’s milestones.

Despite facing economic challenges both domestically and internationally, Abbey Mortgage Bank maintained its strong profit trajectory, achieving record revenue for the fourth consecutive year in 2023. The Bank reported a pre-tax profit of N951 million, up from N827 million in 2022.

In addition to presenting financial reports, the AGM will feature in-depth discussions on the Bank’s advancements in technology, customer-focused initiatives, and sustainable banking practices. Abbey Mortgage Bank’s commitment to excellence was recognized with

several prestigious awards in 2023, including “Best Mortgage Bank,” “Best Customer-Centric Bank,” and “Best Mortgage Bank Brand.”

Reflecting on the Bank’s 2023 performance, Mr. Mobolaji Adewumi, MD/CEO of Abbey Mortgage Bank, stated, “The bank’s performance in 2023 stands as a testament to resilience and excellence amidst the economic challenges plaguing our nation. We have persisted in our remarkable journey of transformation, propelling our bank to the forefront of Mortgage Banking in Africa. This achievement fills me with immense pride.”

L-R: Managing Director, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Adebayo Alli; Edo State, Commissioner, Ministry of Physical Planning Housing and Urban and Regional Development, Hon. Isoken Omo; Chairman Ikpoba -Okha L.GA, Hon. Eric Osayande and Corporate Relations Director, Guinness Nigeria, Rotimi Odusola during the commissioning of the 500-metre Guinness Way Phase II in Oregbeni, Benin

Kayode Tokede

Stock Market Drops by N89bn as Investors React to MPR Hike

Kayode Tokede

The Nigerian stock market yesterday closed on profit-taking note, dropping by N89 billion as investors reacted negatively to hike in Central Bank of Nigeria Monetary Policy Rate (MPR).

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the CBN voted to hike MPR to 26.25per cent amid 33.69per cent inflation rate and crisis in foreign exchange market.

The Nigerian Exchange Limited All-Share Index (NGX ASI) declined by 157.33 basis points or 0.16 per cent to close at 98,128.00 basis points. Also, market capitalisation dipped by N89 billion to close at N55.509 trillion.

The downturn was driven by price depreciation in large and medium capitalised stocks amongst which are; Guinness Nigeria, Zenith Bank, Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO),

Multiverse Mining & Exploration and Nigerian Exchange Group.

As measured by market breadth, market sentiment was negative, as 15 stocks gained relative to 22 losers. Tantalizer emerged the highest price gainer of 8.00 per cent to close at 54 kobo, per share. Wapic Insurance followed with a gain of 7.81 per cent to close at 69 kobo, while Omatek Ventures rose by 7.69 per cent to close at 70 kobo, per share.

Julius Berger appreciated by 7.19 per cent to close at N85.00, while Lafarge Africa advanced by 4.48 per cent to close at N35.00, per share.

On the other side, The Initiates Plc (TIP) led others on the losers’ chart with 10 per cent to close at N1.80, per share. Multiverse Mining & Exploration followed with a decline of 9.82 per cent to close at N12.40, while Cornerstone Insurance dipped by 9.52 per cent to close at N1.90,

per share. DEAP Capital Management & Trust lost 9.09 per cent to close at 40 kobo, while Caverton Offshore Support Group depreciated by 8.45 per cent to close at N1.30, per share.

The total volume of trades increased by 18.7 per cent to 271.708 million units, valued at N5.435 billion, and exchanged in 7,383 deals. Transactions in the shares of Access Holdings led the activity with 35.358

Gamin G Week

Edited by nseobonG okon-ekonG

Betano Extends SL Benfica Sponsorship for Three More Years

Betano, the official sleeve sponsor of Portuguese football giants SL Benfica since the 2021/22 season, has announced a renewal of its sponsorship contract with the club for an additional three years. This extension solidifies Betano’s role as the “Official Betting Sponsor” of Benfica until the end of the 2026/27 season, continuing a partnership that has seen significant engagement and mutual benefits since its inception, writes Davidson Abraham

Kaizen Gaming’s premium sports betting and online gaming brand, Betano, was the first to occupy the sleeve of the official SL Benfica

jersey. This pioneering move has since become a symbol of the strong relationship between the two entities. The renewed agreement also extends Betano’s presence to the sleeves of Benfica’s B

team and Under-23 team jerseys, showcasing the comprehensive nature of this partnership.

“We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Benfica as we embark on this exciting new chapter

together,” said Julio Iglesias, Chief Commercial Officer at Kaizen Gaming. “From working closely with ‘The Eagles’ over the past years, we’ve witnessed first-hand the club’s unwavering dedication to excellence

both on and off the field, which is matched only by the support and enthusiasm of its fans. By renewing our support for Benfica, we reaffirm our ongoing commitment to Portugal, the country’s football fans, and its prestigious sporting institutions, as well as the offer of premium, entertaining, and safe betting experiences.”

Bernardo Faria Carvalho, Director of International Expansion at SL Benfica, also expressed his enthusiasm about the extended partnership.

“We are very excited to renew our partnership with Betano, a leading sports betting brand that continues to show a strong commitment to football on a global level,” said Carvalho.

“This agreement not only reinforces our successful collaboration but also allows us to offer innovative experiences to our fans.

The presence of Betano on the sleeve of our shirt symbolizes the importance of this partnership and is vital for our international growth and to consolidate our global presence.”

The contract between Betano and SL Benfica includes a variety of mutual features and endorsements. These collaborative efforts aim to enhance the fan experience and promote both brands on a global scale. The partnership is not just about visibility on jerseys; it also involves creating engaging and innovative experiences for Benfica fans, further cementing the bond between the club and its supporters.

About KAizen GAminG AnD betAno Kaizen Gaming is one of the largest game tech companies worldwide, known for its focus on technology and people. The company aims to continuously evolve the betting experience it offers to millions of customers around the globe, providing entertainment in a fun and responsible manner. Betano, Kaizen Gaming’s premium brand, has a strong presence in several markets across Europe and Latin America and has recently expanded into Africa and North America with launches in Nigeria and Ontario. Kaizen Gaming employs more than 2,500 people globally and has been recognised as a leading player in the sports betting and gaming industry. The company has won numerous awards, including an unprecedented five trophies in a single year at the 2023 EGR Operator Awards. These accolades include ‘Sports Betting Operator of the Year’, ‘Marketing Campaign of the Year’, ‘Mobile Sports Product of the Year’, ‘In-House Product of the Year’, and ‘In-Play Sports Operator of the Year’.

The extended sponsorship agreement between Betano and SL Benfica underscores a shared commitment to excellence and innovation in sports and gaming, promising exciting developments for fans and stakeholders alike in the coming years.

New Zealand Uncovers over $11m in Alleged Largest Illegal Lottery Case

In what has been dubbed the largest illegal lottery operation ever uncovered in New Zealand, a Christchurch man and his company find themselves at the centre of a significant legal battle. The charges they face are grave, reflecting the magnitude of their alleged activities.

UNCoVeRINg The opeRaTIoN

The saga began when the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) initiated an investigation into suspicious online activities related to lotteries. What they uncovered was startling: an elaborate scheme allegedly orchestrated by the defendants involving the sale of illegal lotteries through various online platforms. These lotteries, enticingly marketed with promises of extravagant prizes such as luxury cars, boats, caravans, cash, and even a freehold house, attracted a substantial amount of revenue.

According to the findings of the DIA investigation, the defendants purportedly profited personally from the sale of these illegal lotteries, flouting the legal framework set forth by the Gambling Act 2003. Under this legislation, any gambling activity offering prizes exceeding NZ$5,000 ($3,000) must be conducted by a not-for-profit society for authorised purposes and possess a Class 3 gambling license. Failure to adhere to these regulations constitutes a serious offence under the law.

LegaL RamIfICaTIoNS

aNd Law eNfoRCemeNT

aCTIoN

The ramifications of the alleged illegal lottery operation are significant. The defendants now face charges related to conducting illegal gambling, promoting illegal gambling, and making a pecuniary gain from illegal gambling. These charges, brought forth under the provisions of the Gambling Act 2003, carry substantial penalties and legal consequences.

In response to the DIA investigation’s findings, law enforcement authorities have taken swift action. Police proceedings have been initiated in the high court against the defendants, marking a decisive step towards holding them accountable for their purported actions. The involvement of

the high court underscores the gravity of the situation and the authorities’ commitment to upholding the integrity of the law.

VICkI SCoTT’S STaTemeNT

As the New Zealand Herald reports,

Vicki Scott, Director of Gambling at the DIA, underscored the importance of stringent regulatory standards in combating illegal gambling activities.

“Our strict licensing requirements are there for a reason,” she stated emphatically. “We will not hesitate

to respond firmly when we see instances of illegal gambling such as unlicensed online lotteries. We have no tolerance for those who seek to profit by bypassing the rules.”

The legal proceedings against the defendants have commenced, with their appearance in the Christchurch District Court. As the judicial process unfolds, the outcome of this case will serve as a testament to the commitment of New Zealand authorities to uphold the rule of law and protect the interests of the public.

The case of the alleged largest illegal lottery in New Zealand history stands as a landmark moment in the country’s legal landscape. It highlights the vigilance of regulatory agencies like the DIA in safeguarding the integrity of the gambling industry and underscores the imperative of compliance with established legal frameworks. As the legal proceedings progress, the eyes of the nation remain fixed on the outcome, eager to witness justice served in the pursuit of upholding the rule of law.

Govt Bans Employees from Soon-to-open Casino over Conflict of Interest

The Mayor of Quezon City in the Philippines, Josefina Belmonte, has declared that all city government officials and employees are strictly forbidden from entering the forthcoming Solaire Resort North Casino. This establishment is being developed by Bloomberry Resorts Corp., a company listed in the Philippines within the jurisdiction of Quezon City.

The Manila Standard reported that Belmonte mentioned the city administration’s collaboration with Bloomberry to compile a comprehensive database of photographs of all city government personnel. This initiative aims to effectively enforce the entry ban. Belmonte also indicated that this list would encompass approximately 19,000 employees.

Belmonte made these remarks during the inaugural ‘International Conference on Responsible Gambling and Gaming Addiction’ held in Quezon City. This event was supported by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor), the country’s gaming regulator.

The mayor elaborated that an electronic device positioned at each entrance of the Solaire Resort North casino would recognize any city government official or employee and prevent their access to the gaming area. However, Quezon City public

servants would still be permitted to access other sections of the resort.

“Even if one wears a wig, a mask, or a hat, one’s face can still be detected using a very sophisticated system,” Belmonte stated, as reported by the media outlet.

SoLaIRe ReSoRT

opeNINg SooN

Bloomberry recently confirmed that Solaire Resort North is set to open its doors on May 25. The company describes Solaire Resort North as a $1.0-billion development spanning 1.5 hectares (3.7 acres), featuring 526 rooms and suites. The casino is slated to offer 2,669 electronic gaming machines and 163 gaming tables distributed across four levels, according to Bloomberry.

cent of the annual total by 2025 as the property scales its business operations.

In April, Enrique Razon, Bloomberry’s chairman and chief executive, projected that Solaire Resort North would achieve full operational capacity by 2026.

A March memo from Maybank Securities Inc. highlighted that Solaire Resort North could contribute nine per cent of Bloomberry’s gross gaming revenue (GGR) for 2024 and 14 per

Bloomberry operates the Solaire Resort and Casino located in Entertainment City within the Metro Manila area. The company also manages the Jeju Sun Hotel & Casino in Jeju, South Korea. The company recently revealed that it has finally managed to reach a settlement agreement in its 10-year legal dispute with Global Gaming Asset

The gaming and lottery industry, which so many people don’t understand, consists of any game of chance. Be it slots, casinos, scratch-and-win games, promotions of ‘buy one, get two free’, or any game of chance, anybody who does that is in the gaming industry. That is what it means when you see commercial commodities saying that ‘this promo is approved by the National Lottery Regulatory Commission,’ even for financial institutions. It is an impactful part of the economy. Under my administration, our focus is to ensure that practitioners and workers, regardless of their class in this industry, become professionals and acceptable to society, not as agents of gambling, not as promoters of an ill trade, but as promoters of a ray of hope.

– David Omaghomi, incoming President of National Union of Gaming and Lottery Workers (NUGLOW)

Management (GGAM) Philippines LLC, a company with which it previously had a cooperation agreement.

The dispute arose because Bloomberry terminated the advantageous relationship six months after opening, alleging that GGAM Philippines did not meet the contractual obligations, particularly the commitment to attract high-rolling gamblers to the facility. Moreover, issues were also raised concerning the casino’s layout and design.

Breaking the Stigma: Why Nigerians Need to Embrace Surrogacy

With infertility affecting one in four Nigerian couples, a quiet revolution is underway. Surrogacy, once a taboo topic, is slowly gaining acceptance as a viable option for families seeking to build their families. Olaronke Thaddeus, a pioneering fertility counsellor and founder of Meet Surrogate Mothers (MSM), is leading the charge. With her agency’s inaugural fertility conference, themed “Exploring Alternative Options to Infertility”, scheduled for May 30th, 2024, at the Eko Hotel and Suites in Victoria Island, Lagos, Thaddeus aims to shatter the stigma surrounding surrogacy and encourage Nigerians to embrace this life-changing option. Writes MARY NNAH

Infertility is a global issue affecting every one out of every four couples. In Nigeria, the statistics are alarming, with approximately 12 million infertile persons, accounting for 10% of the total population. Fertility counsellor Olaronke Thaddeus, founder of Meet Surrogate Mothers Agency, is advocating for surrogacy as a viable option for couples struggling with infertility

Speaking recently with journalists on a forthcoming fertility conference, which aims to educate women about various methods of assisted reproductive technology and approaches to solving infertility issues, including IVF and surrogacy, Thaddeus emphasised that surrogacy is not illegal in Nigeria and encourages couples to explore this option without shame.

She stresses that medical interventions can solve most fertility challenges if couples seek help early.

While highlighting that IVF is a viable option for women with blocked fallopian tubes, Thaddeus stressed that surrogacy is a potential solution for women who cannot carry a pregnancy due to medical conditions or previous surgeries.

She revealed that Meet Surrogate Mothers Agency will offer 15 free IVF cycles to Nigerian couples during the conference.

She encourages women to embrace surrogacy without guilt or shame, citing its success in the United States and other countries.

Thaddeus also addresses common misconceptions about surrogacy, clarifying that it is not illegal in Nigeria and that her agency practices gestational surrogacy, where the surrogate mother is not genetically related to the child. She assures that the agency prioritises the surrogate mother’s health and well-being throughout the pregnancy.

She was quick to add that the conference aims to raise awareness about surrogacy services and empower women to make informed choices about their reproductive health.

Thaddeus hopes to change the narrative around surrogacy, encouraging couples to explore this option without fear of societal judgment. With the conference and her agency’s services, she is determined to make a positive impact on the lives of fertility-challenged couples in Nigeria.

Thaddeus, a fertility counsellor with years of experience, has seen the devastating effects of infertility on couples. She believes that surrogacy can be a beacon of hope for those who have lost hope.

“Surrogacy is not just a medical procedure; it’s a journey that requires emotional support and care. I am committed to providing that support and care to every couple that needs it. At Meet Surrogate Mothers Agency, we provide a comprehensive service that includes counselling, medical evaluation, and legal guidance to ensure a smooth and successful journey,” she explained.

The agency’s surrogacy programme is designed to be inclusive and accessible. Thaddeus emphasised that surrogacy is not just for the wealthy, and her agency aims to make it accessible to all. “We

believe that every couple deserves a chance to experience the joy of parenthood, regardless of their financial status,” she said.

Thaddeus also addressed the ethical and legal implications of surrogacy in Nigeria. She clarifies that surrogacy is not illegal in Nigeria and that her agency follows strict guidelines to ensure that the rights of all parties involved are protected.

“We work with a team of legal experts to ensure that all legal requirements are met, and we prioritise the health and wellbeing of our surrogate mothers,” she assured.

The conference promises to be an enlightening experience, with a lineup of expert speakers and a Q&A session to address attendees’ concerns.

The fertility counsellor encouraged couples to attend the conference and explore the option of surrogacy.

“It’s time to break the silence and stigma surrounding infertility and surrogacy. Let’s work together to create a supportive community

where couples can find hope and solutions,” she noted.

The forthcoming fertility conference by Meet Surrogate Mothers Agency is a significant step towards raising awareness about surrogacy services in Nigeria. Thaddeus’s advocacy for surrogacy as a viable option for couples struggling with infertility is a beacon of hope for those who have lost hope. With the conference and her agency’s services, Thaddeus is determined to make a positive impact on the lives of fertility-challenged couples in Nigeria.

Thaddeus’s agency, Meet Surrogate Mothers, has already made a significant impact on the lives of several couples. Her dedication to her work is evident in the way she speaks about her clients. “I see myself in every couple that walks through our doors.

I know the pain and frustration of infertility, and I am committed to helping them find

a solution,” she said. As the conference approaches, Thaddeus is busy putting the final touches to the programme. She is excited to share her knowledge and expertise with couples who are struggling to find a solution to their fertility challenges.

The conference promises to be a groundbreaking event, one that will change the narrative around surrogacy in Nigeria. Thaddeus’s advocacy for surrogacy as a viable option for couples struggling with infertility is a beacon of hope for those who have lost hope. Therefore, the forthcoming fertility conference by Meet Surrogate Mothers Agency is a significant step towards raising awareness about surrogacy services in Nigeria.

Thaddeus’s advocacy for surrogacy as a viable option for couples struggling with infertility is a beacon of hope for those who have lost hope. With the conference and her agency’s services, Thaddeus is determined to make a positive impact on the lives of fertility-challenged couples in Nigeria.

Olaronke Thaddeus

INAUGURATION OF NEW EKO CARCASS REFRIGERATOR MEAT VAN...

L-R: Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Lagos State, Mr. Emmanuel Audu; Managing Director, New Oasis Nigeria Limited, Mr.

Chief Veterinary

Idris; Commissioner for Agriculture, Lagos State, Ms. Abisola Olusanya; Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Agriculture, Dr Oluwarotimi Fashola; and Chairman, Lagos

Kazeem, during the inauguration of new Carcass Refrigerated Meat Van (Eko Fresh Meat Van), at Lagos State Central

It’s Easy to Destroy, But Difficult to Build, First Lady Begs Livid APC Women Leaders

Urges them to be each other’s keepers Ganduje laments abandonment of female members

Segun James in Lagos and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, yesterday, appealed to the 37 women leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 36 states of the

federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to maintain peace and appreciate one another.

The appeal followed the women leaders’ allegation of abandonment by the party.

Tinubu reminded the women

that it was easier to destroy than to build. She urged them to be each other’s keepers.

The first lady donated wrappers to the women.

National Chairman of APC, Abdullahi Ganduje, lamented that

despite the women’s commitment to the party during elections, when it was time for appointment, it was always dominated by men.

The APC women had last Wednesday complained that they were not being carried along in the

House Urges Health Ministry to Direct Free Medical Treatment for Pregnant Women

The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Ministry of Health to issue directives enabling free medical treatment for pregnant women during and after delivery in public healthcare institutions and implement routine checks to ensure continuity, by medical personnel, and sustainability of childbirth processes.

The lawmakers further mandated

Champion

its Committee on Healthcare Services and Healthcare Institutions to invite the Hon. Minister of Health to propose a solution to this innovative trend and report back within four (4) weeks for further legislative action. These resolutions followed the adoption of a motion on the Need to Allow Pregnant Women to Access Free Medical treatment from Public Health Institution During and after Delivery moved by Hon. Moham-

Breweries Upbeat Amid Harsh Business Terrain

Champions Breweries Plc has expressed optimism in the Nigerian market despite the harsh terrain for doing business in the country.

In a statement, the company said going forward into 2024, it remains committed to navigating the dynamic business environment with resilience and strategic foresight.

The company’s Managing Director, Dr. Inalegwu Adoga, said its current theme, 'Excellence, the New Frontier,' encapsulates its commitment to business transformation through continuous improvements and innovation.

"By focusing on operational, quality, commercial, and brand excellence, we are chasing new frontiers of organisational excellence and driving our company forward in every aspect to stay competitive as a formidable market leader in our domain," Adoga said.

The statement also announced the impressive financial performance and strategic milestones it achieved during the fiscal year in 2023.

Speaking during its 48th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Lagos, the company’s Chairman, Mr. Imo-Abasi Jacob, stated that its audited financial results for 2023 revealed remarkable progress, with substantial gains across various financial metrics.

“Champion Breweries Plc experienced a significant surge in revenue, reaching N12.7 billion, propelled by robust market demand and strategic expansion initiatives.

“Furthermore, the company's profit after tax surged to an impressive N1.58 billion, demonstrating its capability to generate sustainable profits and create value for stakeholders,” he noted.

He stressed that despite facing economic challenges such as cash shortages, fuel subsidy removal, and currency fluctuations, Champion Breweries Plc exhibited resilience and adaptability throughout the year.

The company successfully launched three new products, implemented cost-saving measures, and commissioned a new Mash Filter, showcasing its commitment to innovation and operational excellence.

med Dan Abba Shehu at plenary yesterday.

Shehu noted that the government established public healthcare institutions to provide medical services to humanity with supplied drugs, equipped with modern medical facilities and charged with the responsibility of handling healthcare-related matters, which was not restricted to pregnant women in the nation, but their efforts to encourage free treatment have not fully realised.

He informed the House that the government allocated an annual budget to public healthcare institutions to fund healthcare service delivery to the citizens, particularly pregnant women whose families could not at ford medical treatment during pregnancy and childbirth.

Noting that 2019 statistics report by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) revealed that the fertility rate in the 2019 population of 200, 963, 599 was 5.67%; in 2018, 195,874,683 represented 5.67%; in 2017, 190,873,244 represented 5.67%; and in 2016, the (total population of 186,960.241 represented 5.67% of the fertility rate of childbirth in the country, he said this indicated the need for free medical treatment for pregnant women to boost the country’s fertility rate.

The lawmaker stressed that Nigeria was grappling with high disease rates, resulting in an annual maternal mortality rate of expectant mothers and children due to pregnancy complications and the polo virus.

scheme of things in the party.

But the first lady, who was represented by the wife of the vice president, Nana Shettima, while handing over the fabrics to the APC women, said the support was meant for the women who were into the fabrics business.

She stated, “My appeal to all of us here is to be our sisters' keepers. No matter what, let us appreciate one another. We all know it is easy to destroy but very difficult to build.

“Without flattering, Her Excellency (Oluremi) within the one year has crisscrossed the 36 states. She has been to the six geopolitical zones. She is someone who is eager and wants to see changes in the country.

“The little present we came with to support our APC women leaders, who are into the fabrics business. Probably, the quantity might not be to your expectation, but I urge you to take it in good faith and assure you that more of such programmes are on the way.”

Ganduje said there was need to change the narrative of gender inequality by electing or appointing more women in positions of authority.

He stated, “We are not surprised seeing the second lady coming up with this very important programme. The population of women in Nigeria is more than the population of men.

“So, you can see that when it

comes to elections, women are more committed, despite environmental hazards, be it cold, dust weather, they will stay through.

“But when it comes to the sharing of the success of the election, it is dominated by men. We have to change this narrative of women participation in politics.

“We have begun it as a party by speaking to the chief executives at the state level to begin to include women participation at the local government level.”

The chairman noted that the programme was aimed at improving financial inclusiveness for women, who were already in the business of fabrics.

Ganduje added, “I'm happy to hear that this programme is for women, who are already in the fabrics business and their business is down due to the present economic challenge, which is all over the world.

“By introducing this programme, these are assets because they will increase their goods and when they sell them they will buy more wrappers to shore up their businesses.

“I now advise those, who are in charge of this programme, the first and second ladies have done their own. What is left is for you to be honest, transparent, and nationalistic so that these wrappers will go to the target group.

Awujale is My Father, Emir of Kano Declares

The Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, yesterday, described the paramount ruler of Ijebuland and Awujale of Ijebuland in Ogun State, Oba Sikiru Adetona, as his father, being a man he knew since he was a child as his father’s friend.

The two prominent traditional rulers, however, resolved to strengthen commercial and cultural ties between residents of the two cities.

The two monarchs, who reminiscenced on previous relationships between people of the two historical cities, said the two cities, had many things in common.

While Bayero eulogised the friendship between Awujale and his own father, he described Adetona as an enigma and royal father with a difference, saying he was proud

to call the nonagarian his father.

He said the contribution of Adetona towards national development is exemplary and worthy of emulation, saying the royal father deserved all the accolades that had been poured on him to celebrate his 64 years coronation anniversary and 90th Birthday.

The emir said his visit was to celebrate with Oba Adetona, who recently turned 90 and also celebrated his 64 years on the throne.

He said the ties with Awujale dated to the days of his late father, the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Abdullahi Ado Bayero, who reigned for about 51 years before his transition in 2014

"I grew up to hear my father, the Late Ado Bayero, always calling Kabiyesi Awujale my brother. So, the brother of my father is my father. This is a royal father, who

has been on the throne for 64 years.

So, Awujale is an enigma, a royal father with difference and whose reign has no doubt been a blessing not only to Ijebu land but Nigeria as a whole.

"Certainly, Kano and Ijebuland share same similarities in terms of the people being business oriented, both Kano and Ijebu is known for commerce and our relationships dated back to years.

"So I am here to pay my homage as the Kabiyesi celebrated his 64 years on the throne and 90th birthday. I should have been here during the celebration but I was outside the country.

“I will consider this visit a blessing to me because I have just been on the throne for about three to four years and for us younger generations, I believe that the

blessing I will receive here today will strengthen me for the journey ahead.

"I wish our royal father many more years of peaceful reign and like I said, this visit is to further strengthen the long years of relationship between my late father who reigned for 51 years and Awujale and I will also be back in August for another visit. I pray the Almighty God will further preserve our father, the Awujale for many more years," Ado Bayero said. Responding, Oba Adetona expressed delight at the visit to felicitate him on his birthday and 64th coronation anniversary. He went down the memory lane and relived the cordial relationship that existed between the late Emir Ado-Bayero, whom he described as a "brother".

Mohammed Maikano-Lawal;

Officer, Lagos State, Dr Gboyega

State Butchers Association, Mr Alabi

Abattoir, Oko-Oba, Agege...on Tuesday

PHOTO: SUNDAY ADIGUN

James Sowole in Abeokuta

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

Gilbert Ekugbe

PRESENTATION OF CHEQUE TO MULTICHOICE TALENT FACTORY ALUMNI...

L - R: Senior Brand Manager, Tiger Beer, Kolawole Akintimehin; Brand Manager, Tiger Beer, Caroline Mbanu; Portfolio Manager, Tiger Beer, Sampson Oloche; MTF Alumni, Elvis Damptey; MTF Alumni, Wura Adeniran; Program Manager, MTF West Africa, Akaoma Onyeonoru; MTF Alumni, Victoria Owoseni; MTF Alumni, Nneoma Amadi; MTF Alumni, Segun Ogundeji; and Academy Director, MTF West Africa, Atinuke Babatunde during the presentation of Cheque to MultiChoice Talent Factory Alumni held in Lagos... on Tuesday

Atiku, Obi Condemn Renewed Killings in Plateau

Knock FG over spate of carnage Obi denies endorsing Abure, says visit reconciliatory Party spokesman disagrees, insists statement twisted

Former Vice President and presidential candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general election, Atiku Abubakar, and the presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, yesterday, have condemned the renewed killings in some parts of Plateau State.

Atiku stated that the uncontained killings in some parts of the country was an indication that state police should be given a priority, and said the continued bloodletting was not acceptable.

He said the escalation of the carnage was part of the growing insecurity in the country, stressing that it has become a hallmark of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration.

Atiku described as condemnable Monday's reported killing of more than 40 persons in Zurak village in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, and earlier killing of nearly two dozen residents in Tilengpat community of Pushit district, in Mangu council.

He stated, "We need to reflect on the fact that the persons being killed are human beings, a creation of God. This bloodletting and continued waste of precious human lives is not acceptable.

"Sadly, it is a reminder of the escalating state of insecurity, which contradicts the propaganda of this administration that security is improving. The incidents in recent times put a lie to their claim.

"It is about time that the issue of state police is approached with the urgency that it deserves. I need to warn that community policing, as being canvassed in some quarters, can never be a substitute to state police.

'’I am mindful of the arguments that have been raised by opponents of state police that it can be subject to abuse by the state governors and their officials. This can also be said of the federal police.

“What is important is to insert into the instrument of creation of the state police, watertight measures that will check abuses. However, not recognising the need of the state police to address the peculiar challenges of different states in the country is a disservice to the security needs of the people.

"My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims and the government and people of Plateau State."

Obi also criticised the federal government over the spate of killings in Plateau and Benue states, and urged the federal government to halt the incessant bloodletting.

Obi asked the federal government to live up to its constitutional responsibility of protecting lives and property.

The former Anambra State governor wrote on his X account, “One continues to be disheartened by the persistent reports of terrorist attacks across Plateau, Benue, and other parts of the country.

“The recent reports of an attack in Zurak village in Wase LGA of Plateau State, which has left about 40 people dead and many others hospitalised, remains a very sad one, which must be condemned in strong terms.

“This adds to the growing number of these heinous attacks. These repeated attacks particularly in Plateau, have become too many to make any discerning mind worrisome.

“Again, I call on the government to rise to its responsibilities of securing

the lives and property of Nigerians with corresponding actions.”

Obi added, “Above all, we must take every necessary measure to drastically reduce insecurity in the nation by investing in the critical areas of human development; education, health, and lifting people out of poverty.”

On the LP crisis, a statement by Yunusa said, "Obi's visit to Labour Party yesterday was not to endorse anybody, but occasioned by his reconciliatory move.

“Julius Abure in his speech stated clearly how Obi came to the office,

and Obi in his speech clarified same, while preaching peace, and his mantra 'Pursuit of better Nigeria for the poor.’”

He further said the leadership of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC)/ Trade Union Congress (TUC) Political Arm, Comrades Titus Amba and Chris Uyot, respectively, also met with Obi and he extensively discussed the same peace move with them.

Yunusa stated, "Obi had repeatedly maintained that his interest was to carry everybody along into one strong family, and not to support one against the other.

"In all his meetings with all stake-

holders, he has always maintained peace, and urged not to lose purpose, which is to free Nigeria suffering and pain.

"The LP standards bearer plans to continue meeting with critical stakeholders, and groups to achieve all-inclusive political family with a common dream of rescuing Nigeria."

But National Publicity Secretary of the party, Ifoh, insisted, "As a party we are pleased that our leader has chosen to reconcile all aggrieved members and stakeholders of the party.

“This noble step taken by Mr. Obi is in line with the call made by the

Party's National Chairman,

during his maiden press conference last week, titled 'Triumphant Resumption of Abure-led NWC', wherein he pleaded with all the warring parties, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), to sheath their swords and join in the rebuilding process in the party." He said Obi's visit and speech had been variously described in some quarters as an endorsement of the Abure leadership, being his very first visit after the successful National Convention of the party held in March.

Naira Crash: UK Varsity Orders Defaulting Nigerian Students to Leave

Nigerian students at a UK university have said they are devastated after some were thrown off their course and ordered to leave the country when they got behind on their fees because of a currency crash.

Teesside University withdrew students who missed their fee instalments and informed the Home Office, after some students’ savings were wiped out when the value of Nigeria’s naira crashed, The Guardian UK reported. President Bola Tinubu, when he assumed office in May last year, started implementing a policy to float Nigeria’s local currency, the Naira, leading to a massive devaluation of the legal tender.

Coupled with the scrapping of fuel subsidy, the collapsing of multiple

foreign exchange windows into the single Importer and Exporter, or I&E window, drastically depreciated the naira's value by 98 per cent, a report by PwC said in February.

This has made it difficult for the students of Nigerian origin to pay their fees, because their accounts had been wiped out by the devaluation, thereby putting them at loggerheads with the school authorities.

But the students, some who say they have been contacted by debt collection agencies, protested outside the campus on Tuesday, accusing the university of being “heartless”.

The university said it had “no choice” as failure to pay was a breach of visa sponsorship rules. It said it had made every effort to help the affected students, including with bespoke payment plans, The

Senate Probes Bayelsa Gas Explosion, Anti-doping Bill Goes Through Second Reading

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The Senate, yesterday,mandated its committees on Petroleum Upstream, Downstream, Gas, Niger Delta Affairs, Health and Environment, to investigate a recent gas pipeline explosion in Bayelsa State.

The resolution was sequel to the consideration and adoption of a motion titled: “Massive explosion close to Gbarian-Ubie Gas Processing Facility in Yenagoa Local Government Area, Bayelsa State and pollution of the environment: The need for urgent action.”

The motion was sponsored by Senator Benson Friday Konbowei (PDP - Bayelsa Central).

Guardian report added.

The BBC said a group of 60 students asked the university for help after they defaulted on their fees when their savings were wiped out.

Adenike Ibrahim, one of the affected students, told the BBC that she was close to handing in her dissertation when she was kicked off her course because she was unable to make a payment.

Despite having now paid her fees in full, she will have to leave the UK with her young son and cannot re-enrol, the report stressed. “I did default (on payments), but I’d already paid 90 per cent of my tuition fees and I went to all of my classes,” she told the broadcaster. “I called them and asked to reach an agreement, but they do not care what happens to their students,” she stressed.

Fubara Swears in New Commissioners, Enjoins Them to Defend Interests of Rivers

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Speaking on the gas explosion, Konbowei said the Senate should note that the Gbarain-Ubie Gas Processing facility is one of the most valuable gas projects in Nigeria having cost multiples of billions of US Dollars to build, and processing about two billion standard cubic feet of gas per day. He said the Red Chamber was aware that the facility supplies gas to the Bonny Terminal for export and was a big source of foreign exchange earnings for the country as well as an important employer of labour.

He said the upper chamber

Also, yesterday, the senate passed for second reading, a bill meant to prohibit Nigerian athletes from consuming substances that could enhance their performances during or after sporting competitions.

was alarmed that there were huge explosions from a crude oil pipeline on Tuesday May14, resulting in an inferno in the vicinity of the gas facility, “and this constituted a threat to the safety of the facility, which is a precious national economic asset.”

He said the explosions caused widespread panic among residents of the community where it occurred, adding that the Senate should be concerned that the inferno resulted in the “pumping of huge volumes of poisonous gaseous substances into the atmosphere resulting in massive pollution of the environment, with adverse impact on the health of the people within the vicinity.”

Meanwhile, the Senate, yesterday, passed for second reading, a bill meant to prohibit Nigerian athletes

from consuming substances that could enhance their performances during or after sporting competitions.

President Bola Tinubu sent the request for the enactment of the legislation to the Senate last week through a letter read on the floor by the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, who presided over the plenary.

The bill was titled "National Anti-Doping Bill 2024."

It was meant to domesticate and enforce in Nigeria, the international convention against doping in sports.

It was also meant to establish the Nigeria anti doping centre to implement Nigeria's obligations to the World Anti-Doping Code in conformity with International standards.

Rivers State Governor, Mr Siminalayi Fubara, yesterday, swore in new commissioners and urged them to defend the interest of the state and the right things always.

Fubara told the commissioners to cultivate the culture of keeping accurate records of their dealings in their various ministries of posting. He said such culture was essential for the effective functioning of any organised system, particularly the civil service because they would provide useful history of events, decisions and actions, including indices of productivity.

The eight new commissioners were Charles Bekee, Mr Collins Onunwo, Solomon Eke, Dr Peter Medee, Mr Elloka Amadi, Mr Basoene Benibo, Mr Tambari Gbara, and Dr Ovy Chukwuma.

The governor said it was regrettable that some commissioners, who had left the administration, ignored

the culture of proper documentation because they had no record of activities in the ministries where they served.

He stated, "I know what I am saying. Some of them who left here as commissioners, there are no records in their ministries. We have had a few meetings with people. We were looking for records, which we could not find, but that is for them and their gods, I am not bothered about that.

"But you that are coming in now, please, do this work as seasoned administrators. Work with your Permanent Secretaries, the things that you don't know, ask questions from them, they will tell you, they will teach you, too. It doesn't reduce you as not being the head. But it helps you to succeed as a good administrator."

Fubara enjoined them to emulate his work culture and pay attention to details, adding that it should reflect in the nature of records they keep.

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Labour

Barrister Julius Abure,

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

adVaNCiNG sUsTaiNaBLE dEVELOPMENT…

L-R: Group Executive Director, Emerging Africa Group, Mallam Mahmoud Shuaib; Hon. Commissioner for Finance, Bauchi State, Alhaji Yakubu Adamu; Executive Vice-Chair, Emerging Africa Group, Dr. Toyin F. Sanni, Governor of Bauchi State, Senator Bala Mohammed; Deputy Governor, Bauchi State, Auwal Jatau, and Hon. Speaker House of Assembly Bauchi State, Abubakar Sulieman, during the successful closure of the N40.9 billion NEN Infrastructure Limited Private Bond in Bauchi… recently

Kidnap, Murder of Lawyers: Anambra NBA Branches Boycott Court Sittings

david-Chyddy Eleke in awka

Lawyers practicing in Anambra State under all the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) branches in the state have resolved to boycott court sittings for one week.

An official memo sent out to all branches of the association in the state and signed by the Chairman of Committee of Chairmen and Secretaries, NBA branches, Anambra State., I. C. Nsofor, which was sighted by THISDAY, stated that the reason for the action was because of the recent kidnap and killing of lawyers in the state.

The memo reminded lawyers in the state that their colleague and Secretary of Idemili branch of NBA, C.J.S Azoro, was still in the custody of his captors, after he was kidnapped early this month.

Court Grants Detained Abba Kyari Permission to Bury Late Mum

alex Enumahinabuja

Justice Emeka Nwite of a Federal High Court in Abuja has granted the suspended Commander of the Inspector General of Police Intelligence Response Team and Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Abba Kyari, permission to go home and conclude his mother’s burial rites.

Kyari has been in custody of the Kuje Correctional Centre, Abuja, since 2022, when he was remanded following the refusal of his bail application in alleged complicity in drugs deal.

Although he pleaded not guilty to the charge following fears that if admitted to bail he could compromise his trial or jump bail, the court ordered that he be kept in custody of the Correctional Centre pending the conclusion of his trial.

However, in a short ruling yesterday, the court, on compassionate grounds, granted Kyari bail in the sum of N50 million and a surety in like sum.

The bail, which is only for a period of two weeks, is to enable the detained DCP visit his home town and perform burial rites of his mother, who died recently.

Two Killed as Rival Youth

Groups Clash in Minna

Two people have been confirmed dead following a clash between two rival youth groups in Maitumbi area, Minna, the Niger State’s capital.

The incident, which took place yesterday, also caused the destruction of many valuables and property belonging to residents of the area.

The cause of the fight between the youth groups is yet to be known even though such incidents have become regular occurrence in some parts of Minna and made residents to move about in fear.

Last Friday, a similar clash occurred at the Gbangenu area where a health worker was stabbed to death when rival youth groups engaged each other in a free for all at a wedding ceremony.

However, the police have moved in swiftly to quell the disturbance and restored law and order to the troubled Maitumbi area.

Reacting to the latest development, the Commissioner for Homeland Security, Major General Abdullahi Garba (rtd), directed all security agencies in the state to arrest and charge to court anyone involved in such lawless behavior.

Adeleke Lauds Foundation over Support for Less Privileged

Kemi OlaitaninIbadan

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has lauded the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Leovest Reassuring Hands Foundation, Mr. Awodiran Olatunji, for establishing a food bank in the state.

This is just as the governor appreciated the United Kingdombased Nigerian for feeding the widows, lifting the downtrodden and sponsoring the education of brilliant but indigent students

among other life-touching initiatives. He expressed astonishment at the level of consistency displayed by the foundation, especially in the last 10 months with the distribution of food items to widows in Ibokun area of the state irrespective of tribe, religion and political affiliation. While appreciating the governor for identifying with the foundation, the Ibokun-born philanthropist disclosed that the foundation was founded in 2022 to create a space where compassion meets action to make impact in the world.

The memo read further: “As if that was not enough, the Vice Chairman of NBA, Ihiala branch and Principal State Counsel, Awa P. Awa, was gruesomely

murdered by suspected gunmen at Okija on May 19, 2024. These are the most recent of attacks on lawyers. “The recent resurgence of

insecurity in the state and targeted attacks on the bar and the bench is worrisome, as lawyers are fast becoming endangered species.

Lookman’s Hat Trick Ends Leverkusen’s 51-game Unbeaten Run, as

Nigerian international, Ademola Lookman, yesterday scored a sensational hat-trick as Atalanta ended a 61-year trophy drought, ending Bayer Leverkusen’s dream of an unbeaten season in the Europa League final at a boisterous Aviva Stadium.

Atalanta Win Europa League

Both sides brought a huge amount of support and colour to Dublin for what was Atalanta’s first European final and only Leverkusen’s third.

Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen had not lost in 51 games this season and were only two matches from

perfection.

But former Charlton Athletic winger, Lookman, had other ideas. He placed the opening goal in the top corner from Davide Zappacosta’s cutback.

And his second would have lit up any European final, as he

nutmegged Granit Xhaka before bending a fantastic shot into the bottom corner from 20 yards.

The Super Eagles player’s third was equally as good as others-a step-over beating Edmond Tapsoba before he fired into the roof of the net.

Kogi Commences Implementation of 1,000 Renewed Hope Housing Estate Project

ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

The Kogi State Governor, Mr. Usman Ododo, has directed the immediate commencement of work at the proposed 1000 units housing estate under the Renewed Hope Housing Project (RHHP) in the state.

Governor Ododo disclosed this while playing host to the management of the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) led by the Managing Director of FHA, Honourable Ayotunde Ojo, on a working visit to Lokoja the state capital on Wednesday. He noted that the meeting was

aimed at finalising preparations for the implementation of the RHHP in the state, which is a demonstration of his administration’s resolve to key into the Renewed Hope Agenda (RHA) of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The governor described the meeting with the management of the FHA as timely in view of the determination of his administration to ensure that Kogi State would enjoy its fair share of the efforts by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to address the housing deficit in Nigeria with the RHHP.

Don’t Disappoint Your Parents, Usman DanFodio Varsity VC Urges Students

Onuminya innocent in sokoto

The Vice-Chancellor of Usman DanFodio University, Sokoto, Prof. Lawal Suleiman Bilbis, has urged matriculating students of the university not to indulge in cultism and

Raheem akingbolu

The Nigerian Breweries-Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund has announced the call for entries for the 10th edition of the Maltina Teacher of the Year competition. It has also been announced that the overall winner for the 2024

examination misconduct that would truncate their academic programmes.

He enjoined them to be diligent in their studies so that their parents and families would not be disappointed at the end.

edition would receive a trophy and a total cash prize of N10 million.

According to the organisers, the entries for the competition opened on May 16, 2024, and will close on July 19, 2024.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony held in Lagos recently,

The VC gave the admonition in his address during the 44th matriculation ceremony of the university held at the convocation square of the school yesterday.

He noted that the university is a nurturing ground for future

leaders who will create impact in the world.

The VC said: “Say no to examination misconduct, no to cultism, because cultism is evil. Remember that indiscipline can hinder one’s overall growth and success.

the Managing Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Hans Essaadi, who was represented by the Human Resource Director, NB Plc, Grace Omo-Lamai, explained that the flag-off of this year’s edition represents the beginning of another journey to appreciating and celebrating the tireless efforts and dedication of teachers. Essaadi stated that the company, through the FelixOhiwerei Education Trust Fund, remains unwavering in its commitment to supporting teachers in shaping future leaders and changing the lives of students for the better in Nigeria.

Ondo Poll: NANS Roots for Marindoti as Aiyedatiwa’s Running Mate

The National Association of Nigerian Students, Joint Campus Council (NANS-JCC), has insisted on its preference of the socio-political activist and fervent supporter of President Bola Tinubu, Dr. Charles Oludare Marindoti, as the running mate of the Ondo

State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, in the forthcoming governorship election in the state.

In a letter to Governor Aiyedatiwa, routed through the Ondo State Chairman of the NANS-JCC, Oluwarotimi Tobiloba Joshua, the body averred that 35-year-old Marindoti, as a youth, had proved his mettle and could

be vouched for to complement effective delivery of services to the Ondo State people under Aiyedatiwa.

Besides, urging the governor and the ruling APC to consider its stance, the NANS similarly appealed to parents and guardians in the state, to support its move towards making the youths

get a high stake in governance, experimenting with the choice of Marindoti.

They said: “This is our reasonable appeal to our parents, guardians and every lover of Ondo State, that having resolved through engagement of the Students’ Union leadership of tertiary institutions in the state.

BoI Disburses N496.72bn Credit to 75,809 SMEs, Adds 2.2m Jobs to Economy

James Emejo in abuja

The Bank of Industry (BoI) yesterday disclosed that it disbursed the sum of N496.72 billion loans to 75,809 beneficiaries including large, medium, small and micro enterprises in 2023.

Speaking at the bank’s 64th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Abuja, Chairman, Shareholders Committee, Mallam Muhammed Bala, also said the development finance institution grew its profits to N153 billion. He said the bank had maintained an impressive financial performance, showcasing a year of remarkable growth and achievement despite facing significant global and local economic challenges. He said these efforts have had a substantial socio-economic impact, creating about 2.20 million direct and indirect jobs across the country.

According to him, the bank’s total assets surged by 64.6 per cent to N3.91 trillion from N2.37 trillion which underscored the bank’s commitment to enhancing its financial foundation and expanding capacity to support Nigeria’s industrial sector.

Laleye dipo in minna

Fidelis david in akure

Patrick Pouyanne to Federal Government

“Nigeria loves to open topics without closing them. You love to debate. When you have such permanent debates, it’s difficult for investors looking for long-term structure to know what direction to go. It’s important to have a debate and then settle it and put a framework on the table that investors can trust”is--TheChiefExecutiveOfficer(CEO)ofTotalEnergies,onwhythecompany investing$6billioninenergyprojectsinAngolaratherthanNigeria.

olusegun.adeniyi@thisdaylive.com

Arsenal, Premiership and All That

Last Sunday, for the fourth time in a row, Manchester City Football Club won the English premiership title. And because of that, ‘enemies of progress’ have not allowed some of us to rest. Even more annoying is that many of the noisemakers actually supported teams of little consequence in the title race. But in Nigeria, there are lessons we can all learn. Not only about the season that just ended but also about football generally and the way we run our country. But I will get to that later. Especially considering the issue of ‘colonial mentality’ that is often peddled by those who do not understand why many of us are obsessed with foreign leagues.

Thanks to my brother, Femi Edun, I was last Thursday inducted as the 80th member of an exclusive WhatsApp group of ‘Gooners’ comprising accomplished male professionals (SANs, renowned medical practitioners, oil and gas executives, company owners, academics etc.) who support Arsenal football Club of London. The youngest is a 29-year-old techie and the oldest a professor of 89. Put together by Sola Adepetun, a respected lawyer who specializes in oil and gas, most members are in their late 50s and 60s and many trace their fan history to their schooling in the United Kingdom. The fact that discussions on the forum are restricted to sports with “posts on politics, economy, religion, advertising, birthday greetings and other wishes” no-go-areas, particularly appeals to me. And it’s been fun since I joined.

In the days preceding last Sunday’s final set of matches, there were optimistic posts by members who were predicting their wish. For me, expecting Manchester City to lose their final match at home to West Ham bordered on the delusional but not a few were on that train. Some of the posts give validity to what one ‘bad belle’ guy wrote on his X (formerly Twitter) handle: “I think Arsenal is a social experiment created by government to see how long people can support a team before going mad.” That guy deserves a prison term! But it is also interesting that now that the premiership has been lost and won, motivational speakers have taken over on most Arsenal platforms.

We are being reminded that Liverpool waited 30 years between championships and that Manchester United has also been waiting for the past 12 years. “Arsenal is indeed in its 20th year. But we are closer to winning than any of you except perhaps Liverpool that has done its period of purgatory,” one football philosopher argued before this clincher: “So, don’t laugh - unless you are a Man City fan - and with 115 charges against them, even their future success is uncertain. Notice I didn’t even bother with Spurs. They built their beautiful stadium for Beyoncé concerts not for winning titles!”

As I have previously written, football evokes emotions and passions that are difficult to understand by those who do not follow the game. Shortly before the commencement of the 17th FIFA World Cup held in South Korea and Japan in 2002, respected British sportswriter, Simon Kuper wrote that football arouses “collective passions that are matched by nothing short

of war.” In the piece, ‘The World Game is not Just a Game’, published in New York Times on 26th May 2002, Kuper argued that unlike almost any cultural phenomenon, football is distinguished by its political malleability. “It is used by dictators and revolutionaries, a symbol of oligarchy and anarchy. It gets presidents elected or thrown out, and it defines the way people think, for good or ill, about their countries...”

Kuper is right on the power of football. With one sublime twist or turn, footballers can make us forget our hunger, thirst, and sometimes even our financial predicament.

I once referenced the example of Hernan Crespo, one of the best football strikers in modern times who narrated how the late Diego Maradona’s genius transformed his family. He said their father never talked or betrayed any emotions, so everyone learnt to keep to themselves in the house. But everything changed on 22nd June 1998, during the quarter final match between Argentina and England at the 13th FIFA World Cup in Mexico. According to Crespo, who was eight years old at the time, the moment Maradona scored his incredible solo goal against England, his father broke into tears and started hugging everyone. Crespo said he had never seen his father like that before and it was on that day he decided he would play football and strive for excellence if only to make his father happy.

The treatment meted to former England Skipper David Beckham after the 1998 FIFA World Cup provides another example of what football can do to people. In the group stage match against Columbia at that tournament held in France, it was Beckham’s free kick that earned England the qualification for the first knockout round. But in the match against Argentina, then Argentine fiery midfielder, Diego Simeone, (current manager of La Liga Club, Atletico Madrid) committed a cynical foul against Beckham. In anger, Beckham kicked Simeone who went down as if he was hit by a truck. And the trick worked. Beckham was sent off by the referee. England

went on to lose a match they had controlled up to that moment against a bitter rival. The next day, the banner headline in The Mirror newspaper was: ‘Ten Heroic Lions and One Stupid Boy’. A church even put a banner outside its premises which read: ‘God forgives even David Beckham.’

Now to the main issue. Following the conclusion of the 2023/24 English premiership season won by Manchester City, Ike Imo, a legal practitioner and writer, sums it up this way: “The real winners are the creators and managers of the English Premier League. These are the men and women who have branded a common product (football) and successfully sold it all over the world in such a way that people from New Delhi to Kinshasa (not forgetting Chicago and Riyadh), identify themselves and their daily aspirations and success, with it. It’s brilliant marketing to make a young lad in Enugu forget to eat his dinner because his favourite team (Chelsea) lost a match at Stamford Bridge. I’m almost certain that the English Premier League probably ranks as one of the biggest exports that Britain still has left to offer to the world.”

This then brings me to the question often asked: Why is it that those of us who love the game cannot recreate the same situation in Nigeria? I interrogated this question on 24 August 2006 in a column titled, ‘Killing the Beautiful Game’. Before I conclude, let me share what I wrote 18 years ago.

On the last day of the football season anywhere in the world, there is usually some high drama. But here in Nigeria, you also witness the bizarre and the unexpected. That was exactly what happened last week Wednesday (16 August 2006) in Oron, Akwa Ibom State when the curtains fell on the 2005/2006 football season. The match was between promotion-seeking Akwa United, a professional Division One team and Calabar Rovers. In practical terms, for Akwa United

to gain promotion into the Premiership, winning their match would not just do; their competitor, Bussdor United of Port Harcourt, also had to lose or at least play a draw. Because of the wide goal difference, any other result would consign Akwa United to Division One for another season. Except of course they could score 13 goals within 90 minutes!

Expecting a team that had not succeeded in putting 12 goals into the net all season to now score 13 goals in one match would be expecting a miracle which rarely happens in modern competitive football games. But in Oron, the unexpected indeed happened. Within a few minutes of a most scandalous match where the referee and the 22 players on the field were acting out a macabre drama, the ‘Diego Maradonas’ in Akwa United scored 13 unreplied goals!

Available reports indicate that the match was bought and sold in Akwa Ibom State Government House. If what happened was, however, just a one off, one would not be worried, but it is not. Our football is being run by a bunch of unscrupulous men who have conspired to kill the domestic league by fixing results in boardrooms and effecting such decisions on the field of play. Since Nigerians are no fools, it is equally no surprise that nobody watches football matches here anymore. We are now all hooked to SuperSport for Spanish La Liga, English Premiership, and Italian Serie A. No matter how much we all love what Pele has appropriately dubbed the ‘beautiful game’, no sensible person will waste his time watching a match whose result had already been predetermined.

For those who may not be interested in football and, there are some strange people like that, the real message here is not about sports but rather the culture of dishonesty and lack of any sense of shame that permeates the entire system…

NOTE: Piece concluded online

Still on the Mariga Wedding

Following my column of last week on ‘The Betrothal of Mariga Orphans’, I received messages from several respected people saying whatever may have been the merit of my arguments, they were based on the wrong premise. The Niger State House of Assembly Speaker, Abdulmalik Sarkindaji, who proposed to sponsor the mass wedding of 100 orphaned girls, I was told, intervened out of altruism. I have been availed videos of the interviews granted by the Speaker on the issue where he explained that the whole idea came from religious and traditional leaders in Mariga local government area, the constituency he represents and had twice served as chairman.

According to Sarkindaji, a number of girls who lost their parents to banditry wanted to marry but lacked the needed resources. By tradition, the bride is required to take items like furniture, kitchen utensils, boxes, clothes and other things to the groom’s

house. “They initially submitted the names of 210 girls to me and I told them there was no means for such. So, we cut it down to 100 names. They told me that I would bless the marriage and I told them I cannot attend every marriage, so they should do it in a day, and I would grace the occasion,” Sarkindaji said. “That is the reason for the event. I had wanted to grace the occasion, but I won’t do that again since helping my people has become a crime.” Certain issues have come to light. One, the girls do not fall within the bracket of the Child Rights Act because they are adults and of marriageable age. Two, there is also no problem about consent. Three, I understand that the rigorous process adopted to prune the list eliminated those with doubtful claims. While I still do not believe that marriage offers any enduring solution to socio-economic problems, the girls have made their choice. And we must respect their decision.

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