SATURDAY 23TH DECEMBER 2023

Naira Scarcity Worsens Two Days to Christmas Despite CBN’s Sanction Threat to Banks Shoppers lament, PoS operators raise charges Apex bank lifts restriction on cryptocurrency transactions

Omolabake Fasogbon With about 48 hours to the Christmas

celebration, Nigerians have been left cash-strapped, while hopes of resolving prevailing naira crisis

dwindles, despite Thursday’s warning by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) that it was going to sanction banks

and point-of-sale (PoS) operators allegedly involved in the act of sabotage.

This was just as it emerged yesterday that the CBN has lifted its ban on transactions on crypt-

currencies in the country.

Continued on page 5

Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to OPEC after Angola’s Exit from Oil Cartel...

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Saturday, December 23, 2023 Vol 28. No 10482

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Supreme Court Verdict: Distractions over, Time to Redouble Effort, Says Mbah...

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Tinubu Pledges to Advance Nigeria’s Unity Says he’ll be fair to all Deji Elumoye in Abuja President Bola Tinubu has given an assurance that he would always be fair to all Nigerians and that his

administration remains committed to advancing the unity of Nigeria, as well as ensuring the welfare and prosperity of all citizens.

Speaking yesterday, at the

Ansar-Ud-Deen Central Mosque in Surulere, Lagos, the President, in a statement issued by his Media Adviser, Ajuri Ngelale, said the economic reforms initiated by

his government were aimed at establishing a robust and secure foundation for Nigerians today and for generations unborn.

Tinubu, who joined the Muslim

Ummah to observe Jumaat prayers marking the centennial anniversary of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria (ADS), commended the Society for its service to humanity,

contributions to the propagation of the tenets of Islam and efforts in uplifting the downtrodden.

Continued on page 5

Massive Protests Hit PH as Rivers Groups Reject Wike, Fubara Peace Deal Embark on solidarity walk in support of Fubara Threaten to shut down major roads, offices, oil companies, LNG, others Say resolution embarrassment to Nigerians and abuse of Niger Delta people Rivers elders drag Tinubu, Fubara, INEC to court Fubara pledges more incentives for civil servants beyond Christmas bonus Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt In what appeared to be a backlash from the rapprochement between former governor and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike and his godson and Governor of Rivers State, Siminalaye Fubara,

by President Bola Tinubu, the people of the State have threatened to shut down all business activities in the state if the terms were not reversed.

The crowd which commenced a protest that threatened to ground the State, premised their action on alleged imposition of the terms of agreement on Fubara over the political crisis in the state.

Also yesterday, six elders from Rivers State dragged Tinubu to the Federal High Court in Abuja, for allegedly compelling Fubara to enter into what they termed an unconstitutional agreement.

This was just as Fubara assured Continued on page 5

SAVOURING THE VICTORY… L-R: Chief of Staff to the Governor of Enugu State, Barr. Victor Udeh; Chairman, Peoples Democratic Party, Enugu State, Hon. Augustine Nnamani; Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah; wife of the governor, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah; and Speaker Enugu State House of Assembly, Uche Ugwu, during an address by the governor following the Supreme Court verdict upholding his election in Enugu...yesterday

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Supreme Court Verdict: Distractions over, Time to Redouble Effort, Says Mbah Alex Enumah in Abuja Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has hailed yesterday’s Supreme Court verdict that upheld his election in the March 18, 2023 governorship poll, saying distractions were over, as he vowed to redouble effort in the delivery of his mandate to make Enugu State better.

Mbah, who described the process of the judicial review of his mandate by the Enugu State Governorship

Election Petitions Tribunal, the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court as a huge emotional journey, physical, and spiritual investment for the people of Enugu, thanked them for their support every step of the way, promising not to disappoint them.

He made the statements in Enugu, yesterday, while reacting to the apex court verdict in Abuja, which dismissed the appeal of the Labour Party governorship candidate, Chijioke Edeoga, earlier in the day.

The governor, who spoke at the Government House amidst cheers, drumming, and dancing by jubilant Enugu residents, who thronged the seat of power, said it was victory for the people and a nudge to continue the development strides and to pursue his vision for a greater Enugu State.

He said: “A few minutes ago, the Supreme Court, the highest court in the land, delivered the final judgement on the last tranche of appeals against the mandate you freely gave us on

March 18, 2023. We thank God that the learned justices affirmed your sacred will.

“We wish to express our profound gratitude to the learned justices for keeping the wheel of justice rolling.

We specifically thank them for upholding your mandate.”

Earlier yesterday, the Supreme Court had affirmed the declaration of Mbah as Governor of Enugu State.

According to a five-member panel of justices of the apex court, there

Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to OPEC after Angola’s Exit from Oil Cartel

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Nigeria yesterday reiterated its commitment to the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), following the announcement

by Angola that it planned to exit the international oil cartel.

There had been a dispute between OPEC and some oil-producing African countries after the group slashed their production quota for 2024.

For instance, Nigeria’s total volume was reduced from the current 1.742 million barrels per day to 1.38 million

bpd, even you both parties eventually agreed on 1.5 million bpd for next year.

But in a statement he personally signed, Nigeria’s Minister of State, Petroleum (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, said the country’s commitment to OPEC remained unwavering.

The minister without directly referring to the altercation between Angola and OPEC, said Nigeria was sold out to the collective responsibility to nurture a resilient energy landscape being championed

by OPEC. "I am pleased to reaffirm Nigeria's unwavering commitment to OPEC as we navigate the dynamic landscape of the global energy sector. Our collaboration within the organisation remains pivotal in fostering stability and sustainability in the oil market.

“We are resolute in our dedication to OPEC's objectives while actively engaging with the organisation to address concerns that resonate not only within our nation’s borders but across the entire continent.

“Nigeria stands ready to

contribute constructively to the ongoing dialogue, ensuring that the unique challenges and opportunities of our region are duly recognised and addressed," he added.

As the minister of state for petroleum resources, Lokpobiri said he was committed to fostering a collaborative spirit within OPEC that goes beyond Nigeria’s national interests, recognising the collective responsibility to nurture a resilient energy landscape for the benefit of all member nations and the world at large.

MASSIVE PROTESTS HIT PH AS RIVERS GROUPS REJECT WIKE, FUBARA PEACE DEAL civil servants in the State of more incentives that would better their lives.

However, pensioners in the State have reached out to the embattled governor begging him to include them in the N100, 000 he promised to pay civil servants in the state this Christmas, pointing out that food inflation ravaging the country was also having a telling effect on them for which they want him to come to their rescue.

Apparently making good their threats, the protesters in their thousands yesterday, occupied the major streets of Port Harcourt, on a solidarity walk in support of Fubara.

Prominent among groups in the joint protest included the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN); Rivers State Chapter, Greater Wakirike Movement; National Union of Rivers State Students (NURSS), Worldwide, National Association of Nigeria Students (NAN), ljaw Youth Council (IYC), Rivers Youth Federation (RYC), Ijaw Young Professionals Association and the Andoni Youth Federation.

Others were Ogoni Youth Federation, Niger Delta Activist Forum, United Community Development Committee (UDCD), Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rivers State Chapter, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Rivers State Chapter, and Muslim Community in Rivers State, Concerned Lawyers, Concerned Doctors and others Speaking during the peaceful walk which terminated at the Government House, Port Harcourt, the IYC Chairman in the State, Tamunotonye Kpokpo, condemned the purported agreement initiated by Tinubu. He said the Ijaws would resist any plan to undermine Fubara The President General of Ogoni Youth Federation, Legborsi Yamabana said the agreement was not acceptable.

He also said any attempt to return any of the outgone Commissioners would be resisted.

In their position signed during a joint press conference ahead of the solidarity walk yesterday, the coalition insisted that the eight-point resolution by the President was a sham and embarrassment to Nigeria, arguing that it poses fundamental threats to the nation's democracy, if it's allowed.

The group said the purported terms clearly revealed an alleged perfected plan to enslave Rivers people and bring the state under tyrannical control of one man They maintained that the Rivers State cannot become the estate of any

individual and therefore, urged all indigenes and residents to be ready for long drawn, non-violent protest rallies in the state.

"Siminalayi Fubara that Rivers State people massively voted him into office and therefore cannot allow him to bring the people into disrepute by signing such agreement that is akin to selling our collective hegemony to one individual, Nyesom Wike, who enjoys the support of the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila and the President himself, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

"We herein inform the Governor not to attempt under any guise of persuasive truce, imagine adherence to any part of that unconstitutional agreement as that is tantamount to compromising the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

"To think that the meeting was convened at the instance of Mr. President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, but do not have the signature of Mr. President, throws questions as to the authenticity of the said resolutions.

“It is worthy of mention that the following persons did not also append their signatures; the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), the Chief of Staff to Mr. President, the Attorney General of the Federation and the Chief Justice of the Federation.

"Rivers State people are aware that the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike and the Chief of Staff to President Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, are working hand in hand to undermine the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, just to suit their inordinate and selfish political ambitions for 2027," they alleged.

According to the group, "a critical analysis of the purported resolutions reveal a barrage of illegalities and more so, at no point was the interest of the good people of Rivers State mentioned or even accommodated.

Rather, the ill- fated resolutions depict the abusive show of power for obvious political gains of Mr. President and his FCT Minister.

"Indeed, by this purported resolutions, it is evidently clear that Mr. President hates and abhors the Niger Delta people and has aligned with his FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to undermine the entire Niger- Delta region.

"The mischievous essence of these resolutions can also be seen in the last point in the document, where the issue of Local Government Care-taker Committee was mentioned.

"It is amazing how Mr. President

has allowed and supported a Caretaker Committee of his own party, the APC in Rivers State but directing the Executive Governor of Rivers State not to consider the use of Caretaker Committee at the Local Government Councils of the same State.

"Arising from this unbelievable truth that Mr. President, His Excellency, Bola Tinubu could have proclaimed such unjust, inhuman resolutions against a State, just to satisfy the ego of his FCT Minister, beats every strap of logical reasoning.

"Indeed, one wonders why President Bola Ahmed could accept the defection of 27 House of Assembly Members from the People's Democratic Party (PDP) to his own party, the All Progressive Congress (APC), but

cannot bring himself to accept the declaration."

The group further wondered why the President could not accept the constitutional presentation of the 2024 budget by Fubara.

"For the records, we hereby emphasise that with the misguided defection of the 25 lawmakers of the Rivers State House of Assembly and subsequent declaration of their seats, vacant, by the Speaker of the House, in accordance with section 109 (1)(B) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution, the House in line with the provisions of section 102 of the Constitution, proceeded to deliberate and pass the 2024 Appropriation Bill, which has since been assented to by the Governor of the State, Siminalayi Fubara.

was no reason to deviate from the concurrent judgments of the lower governorship tribunal and the Court of Appeal, which had in their separate judgments held that Mbah of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was lawfully elected governor at the March 18 governorship election.

The panel led by Justice John Okoro, subsequently dismissed the appeal filed by the Labour Party (LP), and Edeoga, against the outcome of the governorship election in Enugu State.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), had declared Mbah winner of the Enugu State governorship election haven scored majority of the lawful votes cast at the election.

According to the electoral umpire, Mbah polled 160,895 votes, while his closest rival, Edeoga of the LP scored 157,552 votes, and was followed by Frank Nweke of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), with 17, 983.

Dissatisfied, Edeoga citing alleged irregularities, malpractices, noncompliance and corrupt practices had asked the governorship

election tribunal to set aside INEC's declaration and return him as the authentic winner of the March 18 election.

But the tribunal in its judgment held that the LP candidate failed to substantiate his allegations against the election and subsequently dismissed the petition.

The Court of Appeal in its own judgment also dismissed Edeoga's appeal against the judgment of the Enugu State Governorship Election Petition, for being incompetent and lacking in merit, prompting the instant appeal at the apex court.

However, the apex court like the two lower courts held that the appellants did not give enough credible evidence to warrant delivering judgment in his favour.

According to the apex court, it found no reason to dislodge the concurrent verdicts of the lower tribunal and the Court of Appeal, which sat in Lagos.

The apex court subsequently resolved all the issues that were raised in the appeal, against the LP and Edeoga.

TINUBU PLEDGES TO ADVANCE NIGERIA’S UNITY He implored members of the Society to remain committed to their objectives of advancing the education of citizens, as well as promoting the moral and social development of the Muslim Ummah.

The President thanked the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society for their support during the elections, emphasising that their efforts serve as a motivation for his government to stay resolute in delivering good governance to the people.

His words: ''I thank the AnsarUd-Deen Society for its support during the elections. I do not take it for granted; rather, the support serves as a stimulus for us in government to remain focused."

Reiterating his commitment to the welfare of all citizens, President Tinubu, who is on a brief Christmas holiday in Lagos, said the recent

50 per cent cut in inter-state land transportation fares nationwide, and the payment of N-Power beneficiaries' backlog of allowances, among other reliefs, were all efforts aimed at alleviating the burden of Nigerians this festive season with much more to be expected in the new year.

According to him: "We are committed to enthroning a better society for our citizens irrespective of ethnic, religious, or geographical differences. The various policies already in place are expected to bring great succour to our people.

“We know their pains, and we are addressing them holistically. ''It is instructive that AnsarUd-Deen has attained 100 years through a systemic strategy that maintains its mission and vision.

This is a testimony to what focused planning can achieve in a society".

NAIRA SCARCITY WORSENS TWO DAYS TO CHRISTMAS DESPITE CBN’S SANCTION THREAT TO BANKS The CBN had warned banks and PoS operators against acts undermining availability and flow of the Naira across the country.

The bank in a statement issued by its acting Director, Corporate Communications, Mrs. Sidi-Ali Hakama, had alluded to alleged cases of collusion between banks and PoS operators which had reportedly affected the availability of cash, as well as disruption of the seamless circulation of the Naira.

Also on Thursday, the House of Representatives had urged the CBN to improve on its monitoring and supervision of commercial banks in the country due to the worsening incidence of Naira scarcity.

The issue of cash scarcity began to creep into the economy late November and got more pronounced in December with widened cash demand for yuletide celebrations.

Finding by THISDAY in Lagos yesterday showed that the Naira scarcity has remained unabated as banks have continued to peg withdrawal limits downwards to as low as N2,000, with PoS agents coming to the rescue of desperate customers.

For instance, at a branch of Polaris Bank stationed in the bustling Ikeja Mall at Alausa, Lagos, THISDAY gathered that customers left the banking hall in anger when told they could not withdraw more than N10,000 over the counter, even as the bank's ATM was not dispensing cash.

A customer, Nwafor Gloria, said she could not continue with her Christmas shopping due to the

bank's failure to release a reasonable amount of cash.

She said, "I have exhausted my N100,000 transfer daily limit on some items and I came into the bank to get more cash to buy more things only to be told I can't withdraw more than N10,000. N10,000 for what now?"

On his part, another customer, Mr. B. Anyebe, said he needed cash of up to N40,000 to give to his wife to get foodstuff ahead of Christmas, only to be told he could only withdraw N2,000.

"I had to pay N2,000 to a PoS operator to get N40,000. It's sad this is happening to us again in a country where we have a government, it shouldn't even be this period at all," he lamented.

Also, at the GTBank on Awolowo Road Ikoyi, customers could only get a maximum of N10,000 across the counter, even as the ATMs were not dispensing.

Some PoS terminals visited by THISDAY were not unusually crowded, but customers were made to pay as high as five per cent on withdrawals.

One of the operators at the IyanaIpaja area of Lagos, who simply gave her name as Bose, said she increased her charges because of the hassle she faced in accessing the cash.

"We are only given half or a quarter of the amount we requested.

We have to visit different banks to collect the little they are giving so we can have enough. It is that stressful," she said.

Owing to the development,

Nigerians, both traders and consumers are devising means to stay afloat even though they are not finding it easy.

Given the situation, most transactions at local market and organised retail stores are now consummated with electronic payment but the experiences are not too palatable for both transacting parties.

A visit to some of the markets showed unusual high footfalls, with many customers delayed further by failed electronic transactions.

One of the customers at Blenco Supermarket at Abule-egba, who did not disclose her name said she tried unsuccessfully for over 30 minutes to effect a transfer for items she had already picked.

At Ile-epo market at Abule-Egba, a petty trader popularly known as Iya Elepo, said she does not have a bank account but usually directs her customers to a nearby PoS agent to collect cash and give to her.

Commenting on the situation, the Bank Customers Association of Nigeria (BCAN) cautioned Nigerians against lavish and unnecessary spending.

President of the association, Dr. Uju Ogunbunka, said there were no signs of the crisis ending so soon.

He disclosed that CBN supply of cash to commercial banks has not improved and expressed concern why it was so despite the promise by the apex bank earlier in the week to address the anomaly.

Ogunbunka said, "The CBN has a mandate to promote a sound

financial system which includes producing and distributing cash across the country in a way that will be sufficient for all.

“That this is happening is very sad and sadder at a festive period when physical cash is a priority.

The apex bank should not put us in further trouble and avoid stirring unnecessary sufferings on the masses.

"If there is any issue, let them communicate appropriately so Nigerians can guard and prepare ahead. Nigerians have the right to know the truth.

"As much as we know that digital transactions can be substituted for cash, it cannot entirely play the role of physical cash. Even a merchant who accepts transfer for goods would still find himself in a position of needing cash," he said.

He, however, appealed to Nigerians to remain patient and be frugal.

"Spend whatever you have now wisely. This is not time to spend carelessly," he advised.

On his part, the CEO, Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprises, CPPE, Dr. Muda Yusuf, described the lingering Naira scarcity as economic sabotage.

"Going by the CBN data, the currency in circulation is over N2.5 trillion, which is about what it was before the Naira redesign crisis. Hence, there is no basis for scarcity, except there is a deliberate act of sabotage. The CBN has a responsibility to investigate and identify those behind this," he added.

ͺͻ˜ ͺ͸ͺͻ ˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

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

BUDGET SIGNING… L-R: Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA) member representing Oredo East, Hon. Uyi Frank Omosigho; Secretary to the Edo State Government, Osarodion Ogie; Speaker, EDHA, Hon. Blessing Agbebaku; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Deputy Speaker, EDHA, Hon. Marie Edeko, and EDHA member representing Ovia North East I, Charity Aiguobarueghian, after the signing of the 2024 budget into law by the governor, at the Government House in Benin City…yesterday

FG Declares Christmas, New Year Public Holidays Michael Olugbode in Abuja Federal government has declared December 25th, 26th and January 1st as public holidays to

mark Christmas and New Year Day celebrations.

Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced this yesterday in Abuja.

In a statement signed by the Director overseeing office of the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Interior, Dr. Peter Egbodo, the minister felicitated

with Christians and all Nigerians at home and in the diaspora on the Christmas and New Year celebrations .

Tunji-Ojo enjoined Christians

to emulate the life of Jesus Christ in His practice and teachings of humility, service, compassion, patience, peace and righteousness that His birth signifies.

FG to MOFI: Take Bold, Courageous Investment Steps on Behalf of Nigerians No conflict with BPE's role, says Usman Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja The federal government has tasked the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) to take bold, courageous and aggressive investment steps, maximise opportunities, and collect returns on government assets under their management on behalf of Nigerians.

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, handed down the charge while inaugurating the reconstituted Board of the MOFI yesterday in Abuja, chaired by a former Finance Minister, Shamsudeen Usman and Dr. Armstrong Takang as Managing Director.

MOFI is the investment arm of the government saddled with the mandate to undertake the strategic management of the Federal Government of Nigeria's investments and assets.

The minister stated that MOFI was expected to ensure that what should flow to the coffers of the Nigerian

government is actually diligently identified and collected, adding that this was what similar organisations around the world were doing.

Edun, explained that the mandate of MOFI as owners, the holders of Nigeria's assets was, "to optimise those assets and to do the very best they can to first of all enumerate those assets so that we are sure of what Nigeria owns physical and other assets that has been built up over time."

He added: "Secondly, to maximise the return on those assets, these are what the country owns apart from what it earns from export revenues, oil revenues, non-oil export revenues and other government revenues, the assets that can also earn a return to add to the budget, foreign exchange reserves under the care of Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI).

"I think we are talking about around N18 trillion as the assets under the management of MOFI at the moment but I think that figure

INEC: Re-Run, By-elections Hold February 3, 2024 Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that it would conduct the re-run and by-elections simultaneously in all the affected constituencies on Saturday, February 3, 2024.

INEC National Commissioner and Chairman Information Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, in a statement issued yesterday said the commission has approved the timetable and schedule of activities for conducting by-elections resulting from the resignation or demise of Members of the National and State Houses of Assembly.

He said these vacancies were declared by the Presiding Officers - the Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and Speakers of State Houses of Assembly.

Olumekun noted that the vacancies occurred across two Senatorial Districts, four Federal Constituencies, and three State Constituencies spanning nine states of the federation.

He added: "Furthermore, the commission is conducting re-run elections stemming from the 2023 general election, as directed by various Election Petition Appeal Tribunals.

"Currently, 35 constituencies are affected by these court-ordered elections. While three cover entire constituencies, others involve only a few Polling Units.

"Both categories of elections are scheduled to take place simultaneously in all affected constituencies on Saturday 3rd February 2024."

Olumekun noted that the timetable for the elections, along with detailed delimitation dataregistration areas, polling unit names, the number of registered voters and PVCs collected have been uploaded on the commission's website and social media platforms as a guide to political parties and candidates, and for public information.

The electoral body, therefore, urged political parties and candidates to strictly adhere to the specified timelines for the seamless conduct of these elections.

needs to be interrogated.

"I am sure that with the very rigorous and robust analysis and uncovering and proper valuation of the assets that the federal government owns, you will find out the figure is even much bigger than the current estimate, not to talk of the fact that we should be able to comfortably, in the next decade, reach N100 trillion in the value of those assets.

"I think MOFI is going to and has set out to be, and is determined to be a world class organisation along with the likes of GIC and Mubadala in the Middle East and other national firms and holders

of sovereign assets .

"The key, first of all, and it is something they have committed to, is high-level world class corporate governance, transparency , accountability in management of those assets.

"And secondly, they have to be bold, courageous and they have to be aggressive on behalf of Nigerians to be able to take the best opportunities to be able to invest and collect the returns on those assets on behalf of Nigerian people.

"So, what should flow to the coffers of the Nigerian government is actually diligently identified and

collected and that's what similar organisations around the world are doing. We expect no less from our own MOFI Ministry of Finance Incorporated."

Also speaking, the Chairman of MOFI Board, Dr. Usman said the board was expected to raise the organisation to no less than N100 trillion in the next 10 years, adding that it was possible "because we will be very innovative, we will manage the assets properly and I will like to give Nigerians assurance that their assets are in safe hands because we have already adopted standards of integrity."

He said that peace and security were critical prerequisites for economic development and prosperity. The minister assured that the "federal government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) will continue to put in place effective measures for the security of lives and property."

He further urged Nigerians to be security conscious, and report any suspicious persons or activities to the nearest security agencies.

He reiterated that the Yuletide season calls for discipline in order to protect lives and property of everyone in their respective communities and the nation as a whole.

Tunji-Ojo also admonished all citizens to remain focused that the year 2024 will be a better year with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President.

The minister wished all Nigerians especially Christians a happy Christmas, a peaceful and prosperous New Year celebration.

Obaseki Signs N342bn 2024 Appropriation Bill into Law Governor felicitates Oba of Benin on Igue Festival celebration Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, yesterday, signed the state’s 2024 Appropriation Bill, pegged at N342bn into law after the bill was passed by the Edo State House of Assembly.

Signing the bill at the Government House, Obaseki commended the State Assembly for their collaboration, noting that the greater part of the budget will be used for capital projects to drive further development in the state.

He said, “A fourth night ago, I came to the House to present the last budget in the life of this administration which we termed, ‘Finishing well budget’ and proposed an appropriation of N342 billion.

“I want to thank the House who worked tirelessly to ensure we

achieved this today. I am aware of the diligent work in ensuring that the bill is signed and passed into law today in good record time before the end of the financial year.

“The greater percentage of this budget is going to be used for capital projects affecting our people in the State, and less than 50 percent will go for running of government and recurrent expenditure. We appreciate you for the progressive stand taken in this budget.”

Obaseki continued: “I want to assure you that this government is going to be prudent and disciplined in terms of financial behavior. As a government, we ensure we fulfill and meet all our financial obligations. We meet our commitments as and when due. That is why we are able to pay salaries and benefits of staff on time.

“From what we have seen from this appropriation law, we are going to complete all priority projects we embarked on. No government can complete the entire work in the life of any State or Country; it's a continuous process. But for those things we set out to do, we will surely complete them and not leave any abandoned projects."

The governor added, “We are aware of the challenges and difficulties our citizens are facing and are working hard to complete our capital projects. We need to support the weakest in society by providing a soft landing for those who need help to sustain themselves, feed and for small businesses that need capital or support to help keep their livelihood.”

On his part, the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assem-

bly, Hon Blessing Agbebaku, said, “Your Excellency, you presented your budget some time ago which you tagged ‘budget of finishing well’. We are here today to present the finished work of the budget to you. We have all party members here both the PDP, Labour and APC. It's a total agreement on the budget.

“This budget captured all spheres of administration of this State; it captured both the young, old, poor, rich, vulnerable and everybody in the State and also captured all the projects that intend to be executed in various constituencies.”

Meanwhile, Obaseki has celebrated with His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, on the celebration of the annual Igue Festival.

Kefas: Why Education Took Lion Share of Taraba's 2024 Budget Wole Ayodele in Jalingo Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has revealed why education got the lion share of the state's 2024 budget, saying the budget was designed to actualise the free education policy of his administration.

The governor, who described education as a major priority of his administration, stressed that besides his commitment to

securing the state for citizens and investors, education would remain his major focus.

The sum of N43.2 billion which represents 13.9 per cent of the N311 billion 2024 budget was budgeted for education in 2024 which is a clear demonstration of the Kefas administration's commitment to the success of the free education policy.

The governor, upon assumption of office, declared primary

and secondary education free and compulsory in the state just as he slashed tuition fees by 50 per cent in all the state owned tertiary institutions..

Kefas, who spoke through his Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communications, Emmanuel Bello, maintained that education is the key to unlock the myriad of problems confronting the state just as expressed his

determination to provide free, compulsory and qualitative education in the state.

According to him, "education is the answer to many of the ills the state has been experiencing. With better learning, inner city crimes would be reduced and the necessary manpower will be developed as a well trained person is best suited for employment."

SATURDAY DECEMBER 23, 2023 • T H I S D AY

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ͺͻ˜ ͺ͸ͺͻ ˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

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NEWS

GOOD TO SEE YOU...

L-R: Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, presenting a souvenir to Director General, National Council for Arts and Culture/President, Nigeria Golf Federation, Otunba Segun Runsewe, when NCAC boss led a delegation to the Defence Headquarters, Abuja...recently

FCT: Obi Decries Demolition of 200 Homes for Presidential Air Fleet, Says It's Anti People Doubts sincerity of government on the 50 per cent reduction in transport fare

Chuks Okocha in Abuja The Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the February 25, 2023 election, Peter Obi, has decried the planned demolition of about 200 houses to pave the way for the Presidential Air Fleet.

Obi said in his X-handle that the planned demolition to pave way for the Presidential Fleet is anti-people as it did not consider the plight of poor citizens whose welfare should take precedence over other considerations.

The former Anambra State

governor stated Nigeria, which the World Bank just confirmed has over 100 million citizens in poverty should avoid any policy that could aggravate the situation.

According to Obi,“I am shocked by the recent report of the planned demolition of about 200 houses in the Nuwalege community in Abuja, to make way for the Presidential Fleet.

“I am again pained that we are embarking on such an inconsiderate project at this critical time when the country is going through untold hardship. I would like to reiterate

that at this time, our preoccupation should be how to do away with the Presidential fleet or reduce it to the minimum, to cut costs and save up for more critical projects to help the people, instead of demolishing people’s homes.

“A country where the World Bank announced that over 100 million citizens are being pushed into poverty, should not at this time be sending hundreds of people into homelessness to accommodate the Presidential fleet of luxury aircraft.

We need to focus instead on how to lessen the pain and suffering of

poor people.

“We cannot continue to encourage those who have kept us suffering to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle far beyond our legitimate means. A democratically elected peopleoriented government must always care for the people, above itself.

“I, therefore, advise that we have a rethink, and most importantly, ensure that our fellow Nigerians are not rendered homeless for the sake of an unproductive presidential fleet.

“We should rather focus on helping the people and developing our critical sectors for the sake of

our national peace, progress, and development. No nation grows or develops by subjecting the people to avoidable inconveniences to accommodate the luxurious excesses of its rulers," Obi stated.

Also, Obi doubted the sincerity of the federal government in announcing some largesse for commuters across the country as part of the yuletide.

In his X-handle platform, Obi said “I read the reports of the President’s approval of a 50 per cent slash in the price of interstate transport fare for Nigerians traveling

Gombe Governor Signs N208.064bn 2024 ‘Budget of Continuity and Consolidation’ Segun Awofadeji in Gombe Gombe State Governor, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has signed the 2024 Appropriation Bill into law amounting to N208,064,000,000.00 as passed by the Gombe State House of Assembly.

The signing of the budget was performed by the governor yesterday at a brief ceremony held at the Council Chamber of the Government House, Gombe.

The House of Assembly has increased the budget size by three hundred million Naira (N300,000,000.00) from the initial proposal submitted by Governor Inuwa Yahaya, which was two hundred and seven billion, seven hundred and fifty million, two hundred thousand Naira (N207,750,200,000.00).

The breakdown of the budget indicates an allocation of 58% for capital expenditure and 42 per cent, for recurrent, indicating a rise in

the capital expenditure for the first time in the budget of the state.

Performing the ceremony, the governor commended the lawmakers for the expeditious passage of the appropriation bill, appreciating the longstanding collaboration between the executive and legislative arms, particularly in maintaining the January to December budget cycle.

“Let me commend the leadership and members of the House of Assembly, especially the House

Glo Receives Accolades as Telco Gives out Business Class Tickets to HNI Customers The Lagos State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Cecilia Bolaji Dada, has lauded digital solutions provider, Globacom, for its commitment to the well-being of its teeming subscribers.

She noted that the company had over the years established a reputation for always putting the interest of subscribers first at all times by ensuring that they get rewarded for their patronage.

The commissioner made the remark at Gloworld, Adeola Odeku, Victoria Island, yesterday, at the second prize presentation event of Globacom’s on-going promo, Festival of Joy. Five winners were presented with business class return tickets (Lagos-Paris-London-Lagos) at the event.

According to her, “I commend Glo for the good work they are doing for Nigerians. Fantastic customer relationship is key to Glo, that’s why we are all with the network. I encourage the subscribers to keep recharging.

If you don’t win now, you will later”.

In his own remarks, representative of National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC), Lagos office), Mr. Arinze Ezeani, stated that Globacom has conformed with all rules and regulations regarding the promo. He said Nigerians should continue to recharge on the network, "I assure them that when anyone wins in the promo, Glo will deliver their prizes.”

Also brand influencer and Nollywood star, Tobi Bakre, said the network has become just more than a means of communication, it had also become the conveyor of good news for him while Osas Ighodaro congratulated the winners, pointing out the fact that giving back to subscribers has always been a strong passion of the network. “Glo has been doing it over the years and we appreciate the company for these gestures,” she said.

The winners present included Prince Adebisi Kolawole Osideinde, Baale of Irisa Community, Isara Remo, Ogun State, Engineer Sunday Shobowale and

Olusola Adepoju. They all thanked Globacom for giving them the opportunity to win in the promo.

The event was attended by the Majority Leader, Lagos State House of Assembly, Honourable Nohim Babatunde Adam, Glo brand influencers and Nollywood acts, Osas Ighodaro and Tobi Bakre.

Committee on Appropriations for the enormous work done to ensure the expeditious passage of the appropriation bill. The speedy passage of the bill reaffirmed the harmonious relationship between the executive and the legislative arms,” the governor said.

“Since our assumption of office during our first tenure in 2019, the House of Assembly has always been cooperative. The lawmakers have never failed to act on our requests for passage of annual or supplementary budgets, and on all other requests that needed the approval of the House. We are grateful for the support of the House to our leadership,” the governor added.

He further emphasised his commitment to continued synergy with the lawmakers towards providing effective leadership for the betterment of the citizens and fostering economic development and prosperity in the state.

He said the 2024 budget, tagged ‘Budget of Continuity and Consolidation’ will leverage on the gains of

the previous budgets, maintaining that the Appropriation Act has resources allocated for increased infrastructure, enhanced healthcare services, improved education, human capital development, and job creation, among other priorities.

Speaking at the event, the Speaker of the Gombe State House of Assembly, Rt.Hon. Mohammed Abubakar Luggerewo, commended Governor Inuwa Yahaya on the 2023 budget performance, assuring continued legislative support to ensure that the 2024 budget surpasses that of the 2023 in terms of performance.

“As we present the approved 2023 appropriation bill for the Governor's assent, I want to express the gratitude of all Honorable Members of the State House of Assembly to His Excellency for the budget items. The budget reflects the Governor's commitment to the well-being of Gombe people. It is based on this that we recognise crucial areas needing attention and augmented the budget by 300 million Naira,” the Speaker remarked.

during this Yuletide from Thursday 21, 2023 to January 4, 2024. The news reports added that the President also approved free rides for commuters on all train services within the period.

“If fully implemented, as reported, I consider this first-time intervention of the government, intended to help the masses, a step in the right direction. However, the major concern about such emergency measures is what follows afterward. The high cost of transportation and associated hardships are all well known. The question this seasonal palliative raises is that of what happens after the festive season. Is there a sustainable policy measure to cushion the masses from the current high transportation costs?

"Even the current effort comes with operational challenges.

Millions of people have already traveled bearing the brunt and huge costs of such travels. How will such people get their refunds or be compensated? “Following the government’s announcement of a 50 per cent discount on interstate transport fare for Nigerians, I have taken time to inquire into the implementation mechanics across different cities but I have been disappointed.

"Today, I sent out contractors who consulted widely with the transporters in major parks across the country: in Abuja, they carried out an on-the-spot investigation in Jabi/Utako areas; in Lagos, they visited major parks like Jibowu, Festac, Mile 12, Ajah, and Mazamaza and none of the transporters in these parks was aware of this 50 per cent discount. At Upper Iweka, Onitsha, which is the main traffic hub in Anambra, and in other parts of the country like; Kano, Aba, Kaduna, Owerri, and Gombe, the story is the same.

UN Needs More Support in Addressing Global Challenges, Says Asije The International Society of Diplomats (ISD) Special Emissary on Media to Nigeria, Victor Asije, has said the United Nations (UN) urgently needs more support to be able to match strides with the current and future global challenges.

Asije said this in an end of year message commending the President of the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, Ambassador Dennis Francis,who recently convened a Town Hall with Civil Society from different countries, in New York.

He said the UN as an international organisation was in urgent need of more financial and

technical support from member states, international organisations, Civil Society, academia, private organisations, professionals,youths and others.

"I will like to see the recent Civil Society Town Hall with the President of the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly(UNGA), Ambassador Dennis Francis, in New York, as a strengthener of successive ones.

"The world is currently experiencing challenges of environmental degradation, gender inequality, political tensions, conflicts, insecurity, climate change, terrorism, kidnapping, threats of technologies,

threats of nuclear weapons, hunger, racism and racial discrimination, hate speeches, misinformation and disinformation, illegal migration, and others. ''Obviously these challenges are expanding, and also overstretching the UN capacities.And so the UN urgently needs more from us as member states, international organisations, civil rights, academia, youths,community leaders, and everyone of us all, to make the world a better and liveable place for us all." Asije said.

According to him, the United Nations alone cannot provide the much needed solutions to

the current and future global challenges.

The Special Emissary said that it was important for world leaders and other political leaders, private organisations, religious organisations, financial institutions, business moguls, philanthropists and multinationals to support the UN with more funds.

"We need more engagements, commitments, support, ownership and contributions from everyone and from every part of the world to help sustain and improve on the UN ongoing efforts at providing solutions to these expanding challenges.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 23, 2023 • T H I S D AY

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NEWS

COURTESY VISIT...

L-R: Mayor of Southwark, London, Mayor Micheal Situ and Chairman, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri Erewa, at the Mayor’s office in Southwark City Council , London... recently

Crisis Looms in Lagos Health Sector as JOHESU Threatens Strike Warns FG against non-funding of regulatory Councils Health services in Lagos State may be plunged into crisis if the health workers under the auspices of the Joint Health Sector Unions Assembly (JOHESU) of Healthcare Professional Associa-

tions (AHPA) make good their threat to embark on industrial action over welfare issues.

The workers are aggrieved over the failure of the state government to issue circulars

for Pharmacist Consultant Cadre and payment of Retention Allowance for all Health Workers on CONHESS Salary Scale. The 15-day ultimatum is effective December.

In a letter to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, titled: 'Notice of 15-day ultimatum to proceed on indefinite strike', the workers urged the government to expedite action on the matters

across the seven local government areas of Edo South senatorial district, it has taken its position as far as the Edo 2024 gubernatorial election and the political situation in the state are concerned.

"We have taken our time to critically consider the sociopolitical history of the state since the beginning of the current democratic dispensation in 1999 and arrived at the equitable resolution that since our senato-

rial district, Edo South, started with Chief Lucky Igbinedion between 1999 and 2007, Prof.

Osehriemen Osunbor from Edo Central, May 2007 to November 2008, an administration that was truncated by an Appeal Court verdict, Comrade Senator Adams Oshiomhole from Edo North, between 2008 and 2016 and Mr. Godwin Obaseki from Edo South again, 2016 to 2024, it is only fair that Edo Central is allowed to govern the state as from 2024.

to avert an imminent crisis.

The letter signed by the Acting National Secretary of JOHESU, Comrade Matthew Ajorutu, said the workers drew the attention of the governor to the unfulfilled promises to health workers under its employment, including issuing the "Consultant Cadre circular to Pharmacist in all the facilities of the state government at primary, secondary and tertiary levels."

According to Ajorutu, the action of the state government was contrary to the agreement reached with its officials led by the Special Adviser, Labour Matters in March 2023, whereupon it accepted to "commence payment of Retention Allowances to all eligible health workers on CONHESS Salary Scale, and warned that if the government fails within the next 15 days effective from December 18,

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

This was made known by Chief Uzodinma Okpara, son of the iconic political leader, during the 39th anniversary of the transition of the leader fondly called M.I. Power As the premier of the Eastern region, Okpara left an enduring legacy in leadership as the premier of the Eastern region during the first republic, which lasted from

1959 to 1966.

His regime, which has become a reference point in impactful governance, engendered agricultural and industrial revolution that placed the Eastern region of Nigeria as the fastest growing economy in the world.

Chief Okpara said that the two endowments on Agricultural

Group Supports Asue Ighodalo, Power Shift to Edo Central District in 2024 Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

Ahead of the party primaries slated for February and governorship elections in September 2024, a group, Edo South Vanguard for Justice and Equity, yesterday, canvassed for power shift to Edo Central Senatorial District so that the district can produce the next

governor.

Addressing journalists in Benin City on behalf of the group, Mrs. Joy Ebhonuaye, who is Oredo Woman Leader of the group, said the body has thrown its weight behind Asue Ighodalo as the most qualified aspirant.

Ebhonuaye said as a noble organisation with its members

2023, to meet the demands, JOHESU/AHPA shall call out its members to proceed on an indefinite strike.

"This serves to convey the utter displeasure of the national leadership of Joint Health Sector Unions and Assembly of Healthcare Professional Associations (JOHESU/AHPA) to Your Excellency, following the failure of the Lagos State Government to fulfill its promises to health workers under its employment.

"We put on record the tremendous respect with which we have treated Your Excellency on these recurrent demands which were never reciprocated. It is a reality that the over three memos we sent to Your Excellency on these demands were never acknowledged or responded to at any instance."

Research and Industrial Development would be instituted at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU) and one other university.

He said that experts would be engaged in research that would enhance knowledge in agriculture and the industrial revolution associated with the era of late premier.

National Orientation Agency Condemns Extortion by Rogue Police, Affirms Foundation Institutes Endowments to Revive Okpara's Legacy, Plans Befitting Mausoleum Commitment to Real Nigerian Values Folalumi Alaran in Abuja In a scathing response to the recent incident involving Dutch tourist extortion, the Director General of National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, has condemned the actions of the police officers involved, labelling them as unpatriotic and a disgrace to the true Nigerian spirit.

In a press statement signed

by Paul Odenyi, yesterday, Issa-Onilu applauded the Nigerian police for swift action in disowning, arresting, and dismissing the implicated personnel, emphasising that such behaviour is not representative of the values held dear by the nation.

The NOA boss expressed deep regret over the incident, asserting that "Real Nigerians" are characterised by honesty, dedication, courtesy, and hard work, traits incongruent with the extortion witnessed.

Issa-Onilu who commended the Dutch tourist for her courage

in reporting the incident, highlighted the collective responsibility to expose unruly behaviour, emphasising the importance of reporting to authorities for prompt disciplinary action.

Issa-Onilu further announced plans for a lifestyle charter that will outline the promises of the country to its citizens and their codes of duty. He clarified that these values transcend religious, tribal, or political affiliations, and any act tarnishing the country's reputation will not be tolerated.

Issa-Onilu urged all Nigerians to embrace the "New Dawn" of renewed hope in the real Nigerian spirit, emphasising the commitment to upholding values that stand above divisive sentiments.

In his words: “These are not the real Nigerians. A real Nigerian is honest, dedicated, courteous and hardworking. No real Nigerian would descend this low to demand bribes from a Tourist. Let it be known that this is not us, this is definitely not The real Nigerian Spirit.”

With the absence of quality leadership among the present crop of political leaders, the Michael Okpara Foundation has instituted endowments to revive the legacies of the late premier of the defunct Eastern region.

Ronan Redmond Awarded Outstanding CDS Lauds Runsewe for Rebranding Nigeria's Culture Media Personality of Year 2023 The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has extolled the efforts of the Director General, National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Otunba Segun Runsewe, in constantly reawakening the consciousness of Nigerians on the need to sustain our rich cultural heritage.

The CDS made this remark when he received in audience a delegation comprising the executive members of the Nigeria Golf Federation (NGF) and top management of the NCAC led by the Director General to the Defence Headquarters in Abuja on

a courtesy visit.

Musa said that Runsewe is contributing meaningfully to the socio-political and economic development of the nation, noting that under him the passion, drive, records and achievements of the NCAC in the sector was evidently unrivalled.

He said he was elated to receive the delegation in his office adding that the visit provides a platform to rob minds and share experiences on ways the military can collaborate with the NCAC to promote a robust civil – military relationship through arts and culture.

Rebecca Ejiforma In acknowledgement of his exemplary contributions to the Nigerian media advertising, Ronan Redmond, the Commercial Director at TVC Communications, has been honoured with the award of Outstanding Media Personality of the Year 2023 at the Media Independent Practitioners Association of Nigeria (MIPAN) President’s Dinner 2023.

The latest award for the iconic media advertising guru is coming on the heels of an

earlier recognition of Ronan Redmond by Marketing Edge, a leading marketing and advertising magazine which had two years ago, honoured the Commercial Director as the "Most Outstanding Media Personality of the Year.”

No doubt, these two awards by major industry stakeholders confirms the leadership roles that the TVC Director has been playing in the competitive and highly fragmented Nigerian media market since he arrived in Nigeria almost eight years ago.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 23, 2023 • T H I S D AY

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COMMENTARY

A TORRENT OF TROPHIES

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Tunde Olusunle pays tribute to Isa Kutepa, banker, politician, serial entrepreneur and chairman of Waltersmith Petroman Oil Ltd

ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¡ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱŘŖŗŗǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȬĚ¢ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¡ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ Ȭ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ę ȱ Ȭ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¡ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱǻ Ǽǰȱ ȱ ȱ Ȭ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ǰȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ę ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ Ě ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ Ș ȱ Ȭȱŗȱ Șȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ǰȱ ȱŘŖŘŘǰȱ ę ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ę ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯ Beyond its endowments in solid minerals and petroleum, Kogi State is blessed with swathes and stretches of fertile lands across the state capable of sustaining a plethora of crop species. The state is home to scenic touristic sites and iconic monuments. Lokoja the FDSLWDO RI .RJL 6WDWH IRU LQVWDQFH LV WKH FRQÁXHQFH RI 1LJHULD·V WZR ODUJHVW ULYHUV WKH 1LJHU DQG WKH %HQXH 7KH FRQMRLQLQJ RI ERWK rivers is a sight to behold from atop *Mount Patti* in the Kogi State FDSLWDO &RORQLDO HUD *RYHUQRU *HQHUDO RI 1LJHULD )UHGHULFN /XJDUG VXSHULQWHQGHG RYHU 1LJHULD IURP WKH ÁDWODQGV DQG KLJKODQGV RI Lokoja.

This was before the amalgamation of the northern and southern FRPSRQHQWV RI FRQWHPSRUDU\ 1LJHULD LQWR ZKDW PDQ\ KDYH GHVFULEHG DV D IRUFHG PDWULPRQ\ LQ /XJDUG·V HUVWZKLOH ZRUNVSDFH WRGD\ hosts the seat of administration in Lokoja. Added to all of these is the super-abundance of highly, multi-dimensionally educated, skilled and FHUWLÀHG KXPDQ FDSLWDO IURP .RJL 6WDWH 7KH\ DUH LQ VXFK DQ RYHUÁRZ of numbers that most have opted for addresses elsewhere, within DQG RXWVLGH 1LJHULD , KDYH DOZD\V EUDJJHG IRU H[DPSOH WKDW ZLWK DOPRVW D GR]HQ PRVW GHVHUYLQJ 6HQLRU $GYRFDWHV RI 1LJHULD 6$1 from the Okun sphere in Kogi State, some whole states elsewhere and geopolitical zones may not be as endowed.

Kutepa had with him a diligently articulated masterplan to assist Kogi State in leveraging this bouquet of endowments, capabilities and competencies for its upward socioeconomic ascent. The document was safely in his pouch before he stepped into the political fray in the UXQ XS WR WKH SULPDU\ RI WKH RͿ F\FOH JXEHUQDWRULDO HOHFWLRQ RI He pitched his tent in his bid for the governorship ticket with the 3HRSOHV· 'HPRFUDWLF 3DUW\ 3'3 WKH SDUW\ WR EHDW WKRVH GD\V 7KH primary election which was to produce a successor to the incumbent JRYHUQRU ,EUDKLP ,GULV DW WKH WLPH DWWUDFWHG VRPH RI .RJL·V EHVW DQG brightest, including Kutepa. $SDUW IURP KLV FUHGHQWLDOV DV D ERQD ÀGH KRPHER\ .XWHSD KDG LQ SUHYLRXV WLPHV VHOÁHVVO\ GLVSHQVHG WR KLV FRQVWLWXHQWV LQ SDUWV RI WKH VWDWH ÁLFNHUV RI KLV RZQ ´FRUSRUDWH VRFLDO UHVSRQVLELOLW\ µ LQ KLV SULYDWH FDSDFLW\ :KLOH VRPH SROLWLFLDQV ÁDXQWHG SODWRRQV RI XUFKLQV they had recruited as deviants and thugs, Kutepa had already made a huge statement about the projected educational slant of his agenda, if he scaled the primary. He had built, equipped and donated classroom blocks, laboratories and similar facilities in parts of the state to VFKRROV IUHHZLOO WR XQGHUVFRUH KLV VSHFLÀF SUHIHUHQFH IRU HGXFDWLRQ DV key to the future.

HIS ISA KUTEPA FOUNDATION HAS WORKED OVER THE YEARS WITH THE UNITED NATIONS CHILDREN’S FUND IN THE PROVISION OF POTABLE WATER IN RURAL COMMUNITIES ACROSS THE STATE, TAKING UP PART RESPONSIBILITY OF WHAT IS ORDINARILY THE SCHEDULE OF THE GOVERNMENT

7KH .RJL 6WDWH 3'3 JRYHUQRUVKLS SULPDU\ ZDV KHOG WZLFH WKDW \HDU ,W ZDV ÀVFDOO\ SK\VLFDOO\ HYHQ HPRWLRQDOO\ GUDLQLQJ IRU WKH contestants and their supporters alike. Whereas some of the aspirants ZKR SDUWLFLSDWHG LQ WKH HDUOLHU SULPDU\ KHOG LQ -DQXDU\ ZLWKGUHZ IURP WKH 6HSWHPEHU VHTXHO .XWHSD DEO\ SDUWLFLSDWHG in both. He diligently acquitted himself as the proverbial macho man in Yoruba lore who dared to sleep bare-chested in the open in the freezing temperatures of numbing harmattan. This underscored KLV GHHS VHDWHG JULW DQG UXJJHGQHVV +H HPHUJHG LQ D SKRWR ÀQLVK second position on both occasions, a most commendable showing for a self-propelled aspirant with neither a godfather or state backing in DQ\ IRUP +H ZDV SLWFKHG DJDLQVW WKH ´DQRLQWHGµ FDQGLGDWH RI WKH LQFXPEHQW JRYHUQRU ,EUDKLP ,GULV ,GULV FRQIHVVHG WR WKRVH ZKR WRRN him up on the subject that he was doomed to produce his kinsman as successor or risk being ostracised by his kinsmen, maybe neutralised.

That is the variety of politics played in our clime.

Kutepa wasted no time brooding over the outcome of his attempt DW WKH .RJL JRYHUQRUVKLS 1RW IRU KLP WKH ORXQJLQJ DURXQG WKH FRUridors of State House, Aso Villa, Abuja prospecting appeasement with D ´FDQG\ EDU µ LQ WKH QDPH RI VRPH QHEXORXV FRPSHQVDWRU\ SROLWLFDO appointment. He dusted his boots, made an about turn and headed for his primordial habitat in the skyscraping boardrooms of Victoria ,VODQG DQG ,NR\L ERWK KLJKEURZ GLVWULFWV LQ /DJRV DW WKH YHU\ KHDUW RI WKH QDWLRQ·V HFRQRP\ %DFN LQ KH KDG FR IRXQGHG :DOWHUVPLWK Petroman Oil Limited, an indigenous upstream oil and gas company, GHGLFDWHG WR WKH H[SORUDWLRQ DQG SURGXFWLRQ RI RLO DQG JDV UHVRXUFHV 7KH FRPSDQ\ RSHUDWHV WKH ,ELJZH ÀHOG LQ ´2LO 0LQLQJ /HDVH µ ,PR 6WDWH ZKLFK ZDV DFTXLUHG WKURXJK D FRPSHWLWLYH ELG LQ :DOWHUVPLWK 3HWURPDQ VXFFHVVIXOO\ EHJDQ FRPPHUFLDO H[SRUWV IURP ,ELJZH ÀHOG LQ JURZLQJ SHDN SURGXFWLRQ WR EDUUHOV SHU GD\ ESG 7KH FRPSDQ\·V ESG PRGXODU UHÀQHU\ ZDV FRPPLVVLRQHG E\ IRUPHU 3UHVLGHQW 0XKDPPDGX %XKDUL LQ DQG FRQWULEXWHV DOPRVW PLOOLRQ OLWUHV RI UHÀQHG SURGXFWV DQQXDOO\ :LWK WKH DGGLWLRQDO DZDUG RI WKH $VVD PDUJLQDO ÀHOG WR :DOWHUVPLWK LQ WKH PRGXODU UHÀQHU\ LV EHLQJ H[SDQGHG WR KDYH D UHÀQLQJ FDSDFLW\ RI ESG :DOWHUVPLWK LV DOVR GLYHUVLI\LQJ LQWR SRZHU JHQHUDWLRQ DQG KDV SURFXUHG D PHJDZDWWV SRZHU JHQHUDWLRQ OLFHQVH ,Q FROODERUDWLRQ ZLWK WKH 8QLWHG 1DWLRQV ,QGXVWULDO 'HYHORSPHQW 2UJDQLVDWLRQ 81,'2 .XWHSD·V RUJDQLVDWLRQ LV GHYHORSLQJ DQ LQGXVWULDO DQG innovation park. Such has been the fairytale of the ascendancy of .XWHSD·V YLVLRQ RYHU RQH GHFDGH DIWHU WKH .RJL SROLWLFDO H[SHULHQFH The development of Kogi State also remains very dear to his KHDUW DV GHPRQVWUDWHG E\ KLV XQIDLOLQJ JHQHURVLW\ RYHU WLPH 'HVSLWH QRW FOLQFKLQJ WKH JRYHUQRU WLFNHW LQ .XWHSD UHPDLQHG YHU\ VXSSRUWLYH RI WKH DGPLQLVWUDWLRQ RI ,GULV :DGD WKH YHWHUDQ DYLDWRU ZKR HYHQWXDOO\ JRW WKH WLFNHW )RU KLV FDUULDJH DQG FRPSRUWPHQW WKURXJK WKH PRWLRQV FXOPLQDWLQJ LQ :DGD·V HPHUJHQFH .XWHSD ZDV assigned the prerogative of nominating a running mate to Wada. He never dithered before forwarding the details of Yomi Awoniyi, son of the historic personage, Sunday Bolorunduro Awoniyi, elder statesman DQG UHWLUHG ´VXSHU SHUPDQHQW VHFUHWDU\µ RI SRVW LQGHSHQGHQFH 1LJHULD .XWHSD KDV D UHODWLRQVKLS GDWLQJ EDFN WR WKH ODWH V DQG HDUO\ V ZLWK WKH \RXQJHU $ZRQL\L ZKR UHDG DUFKLWHFWXUH ZKLOH KH .XWHSD VWXGLHG VRFLRORJ\ DW WKH $KPDGX %HOOR 8QLYHUVLW\ $%8 =DULD <RPL $ZRQL\L LQGHHG VHUYHG DV GLUHFWRU JHQHUDO RI .XWHSD·V campaign, ahead of the primary.

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

CATHOLIC BLESSING FOR SAME-SEX COUPLES

I

ȱ ȱ ę ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ Ȭ ¡ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ěǰȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ £ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ Ȭ ¡ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ £ ȱ ȱ £ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ Ȭ ¡ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ Ȭ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ ȱ ȱ Ȭ ¡ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǵ The rights of gay people have been a widely debated issue as African public and parliamentarians battle and resist a supposed attempt by Western countries to impose the gay rights agenda. The discussions have been very intense in countries such as Uganda, Kenya, Nigeria, and Ghana, where some anti same-sex marriage bills have been introduced or passed. In these debates, churches, including the Catholics have largely been in support of the move to criminalize same-sex marriage. These churches claim that gay marriage is unAfrican. More specifically, churches claim that homosexuality is unbiblical and have vowed to resist any move within or without the church to sanction this unchristian and ungodly lifestyle.

Meanwhile, there are concerns that the issue of

What do African churches gain by sanctioning gay hate and abuse? asks Leo Igwe same-sex marriage would result in a schism; that it would drive a wedge between the African and Western churches as many African church groups have vowed to break away if their European and Western establishments decide to solemnize gay marriage. In a quick reaction, the catholic church in Malawi has stated that it would not abide by the papal directive. And there are indications that many catholic churches in other African countries would likely not comply.

It is important to ask, how long will African churches, catholic or noncatholic, resist the recognition of gay marriage? How long will African church leaders continue to sanction and sanctify gay hate and abuse? A closer look at the situation reveals an emerging pattern: a Western church that supports same-sex marriage and an African church opposed to gay rights. Although there are churches in Europe and America that are against same- sex marriage, western Christianity has largely accepted homosexuality. Western churches have witnessed a shift in their position on gay marriage and relationships.

In other words, while many Western churches now consider same-sex relationships as Christian or Biblical, as compatible with 21st century Christianity, their African counterparts regard homosexuality as unchristian, sinful, and criminal.

Now if I may I ask: What do African churches gain by sanctioning gay hate and abuse? What do African churches know about Christianity or the ‘Word of God’ that Western churches and

theologians do not know? Is it not the West that introduced Christianity to Africa and Africans?

African Christians should see a shift in the position on gay rights as a development that they should embrace and not detest or deplore. This shift demonstrates leadership, moral and theological leadership. African churches should abide by this directive. Persistence in opposing such progressive developments, such as the sanctification of gay marriage, has a lot of unpleasant consequences.

African Christianity risks become a religious throwback. African churches will likely get caught in a trap, the trap of the Western Christian past.

This resistance will turn African churches into theological and liturgical backwaters. African Christianity will become embodiments of outdated, archaic, and primitive Christian ideas and practices.

Already, African churches are notorious for witch hunting. They are the lead perpetrators of modern-day witch hunts. Witch hunting ended in the West centuries ago. Today, western churches are regretting their role in this horrific episode.

But contemporary African churches are hotbeds of witchcraft accusations, witch trials, and persecutions. African churches cannot afford to add to this already ugly trend and become hotbeds of gay hate, persecution and abuse.

However, there is a reason to be optimistic and hopeful about the future. It is unlikely that this dark prospect would materialize. There are chances that African churches would eventually join the rest of the world in upholding the rights of gay

people. This sense of optimism is rooted in the fact that African churches have in their ranks some progressive, open and liberal-minded clerics who would work with Pope Francis and other Western leaders to free African churches from the bondage of gay hate. One such cleric is the Ghanaian cardinal, Peter Turkson. In a recent interview, Turkson spoke out against the anti-gay bill in Ghana. He said that homosexuality should not be made an offence against the state; that the issue of gay sex needed education and understanding, not criminalization. The statement was thoughtful and timely, and hopefully would contribute to killing Ghana’s anti gay bill.

In conclusion, from all indications, African churches are out of step with 21century humanity and Christianity. And as Turkson stated, it’s time to begin educating Africans and helping African people understand and make a religious and cultural shift. African Christians should realize that homosexuality is not a crime. That homosexuality is human and natural. And that gay rights are human rights.

With better education and awareness, the African church resistance would fizzle out. African Christian homophobia will be defeated.

The stiff opposition to homosexuality in African churches would turn into a groundswell of support for gay rights in the region.

Igwe holds a doctoral degree in religious studies from the University of Bayreuth in Germany

13

DECEMBER 23, 2023 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INSIGHT

Bracing the hardship...

G

In Praise of Isa Yuguda

T

Lift Ban on Okada

witness the progressive stabilization of reat leaders not only have vision, they also share it with others and inspire he decision to ban motorcycles our region, the time has come to restore many others to create their own. Leadership is simply about understanding ȱȃ Ȅȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ this essential mode of transportation. The ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ě ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ undoubtedly made in the return of motorcycles would not only ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ Ĵ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ aid in revitalizing the local economy but ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ¢ȱ ¢ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ ȱ tumultuous time when insurgents also alleviate the struggles faced by those ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ who have been adversely affected by the ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ £ ǰȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ǰȱ chaos. However, as the situation in our ban. ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ǰȱ ǯȱ ǯȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ę ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ Governor Zulum, I implore you to ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ Ȃ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ě ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ ȱ ȱ ¢Ȃ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ consider reinstating motorcycles in Maiduguri metropolis under a carefully ǰȱ Ȃ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ hood. structured framework that prioritizes prohibition and its impact on the lives After them, many others have followed their footsteps. In the cause of time, safety and regulation. Implementing ȱ ¢ ¢ȱ £ ǯ Nigeria has had leaders whose footprints on the sands of time are indelible. The stringent guidelines, including licenslate Gen. Murtala Ramat Mohammed and the late Umaru Musa Yar’Adua are, The ban on motorcycles, while initially respectively, remembered for both their anti-corruption posture and drive for meant to safeguard our community, has ing requirements, mandatory safety national unity. In the same vein, Mallam Isa Yuguda, an economic czar, Nigeria’s inadvertently led to severe disruptions measures, and strict adherence to traffic former minister of transport and aviation respectively, and erstwhile Bauchi state in the lives and livelihoods of countless regulations, can ensure responsible governor, is celebrated for making immense contributions in the development of individuals. For years, motorcycles were operation of motorcycles within the city.

Nigeria’s banking sector, transforming the nation’s transport and aviation sectors as not just a mode of transport but a means Hamza Ali Usman, Dept of Mass well as raising Bauchi state to a higher threshold of development. of survival for many families. They faCommunication, Borno State University, Last Saturday, 16th December, 2023, in its maiden combined convocation cilitated access to work, schools, markets, Maiduguri ceremony, the Sa’adu Zungur University, Gadau, Bauchi state, awarded Mallam and healthcare services, enabling people Isa Yuguda an honorary Doctorate Degree in Management. At the ceremony, 7,543 to lead productive lives. graduates from six academic sessions were presented for the award of graduate I understand the delicate balance and postgraduate degrees. At this juncture, it’s instructive to note that the point of between security concerns and the need interest is not that Isa Yuguda received an award or that the university has thus far for economic stability. However, as we graduated more than seven thousand students.

Rather, what is most fascinating is the fact that Mallam Isa Yuguda established the University recent news item discussed the use back in 2010 when he held sway as Bauchi ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ state governor. Thus, through his visionary to see how they react to swooping T H E SAT U R DAY N E W S PA P E R EDITOR OBINNA CHIMA leadership, the erstwhile governor established ǯȱ Ȃ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ¢ȱ DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU what has become a prestigious center of ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO excellence in learning. not in the next minute or so and having that DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU At the time the University was established, on screen repeat is not very nice.

CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN there was the problem of many Bauchi There are times when the world of science THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE state indigenous students not being able confuses me and even disappoints me and to gain admission into federal universities that is after 40 years of telling students largely because of quota system and distance, how wonderful science is and that they especially for female students. But education should follow it as a career. There have been T H I S DAY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D is so important that at whatever cost, it must discoveries that have arisen from unusual EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA be gained. And given that one of the primary experimental results including that magic GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, responsibilities of government is to ensure the purple pill, Viagra, but many left field ISRAEL IWEGBU, EMMANUEL EFENI security, safety and well-being of the citizenry experiments should be left out in the field.

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE through upholding law and order as well Perhaps if scientists concentrated on some DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH as providing healthcare services, education, of the big issues, stopping cancer, improved ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI etc., the Isa Yuguda administration thought food production and stopping climate CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI of building the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa change we would have a better world and DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO University Teaching Hospital, a new Specialist more regard for those scientists.

TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com Hospital and the Sa’adu Zungur University.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia Mukhtar Jarmajo, Wuse 2, Abuja

Mice Can’t See What’s Coming

A

14

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 23, 2023

NEWS

OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE...

L-R: Vice Chancellor, Al-Hikma University, Prof. Noah Yusuf; the best-graduating student in the Department of Statistics at the university, Mariam Ayodele Yusuf and the Deputy Governor of Kwara State, Mr. Kayode Alabi, during the celebration of the graduand's feat in Ilorin... recently

2027: FG Will Provide Special Incentives for Youth Participation in Politics, Says Minister Urges young people to contest for councilors, states’ lawmakers Sunday Aborisade in Abuja The Minister of Youth Development, Hajia Jamila Ibrahim, has said the federal government through her ministry would provide special incentives and mentorship for young Nigerians who want to contest the 2027 general elections.

Ibrahim, however, urged qualified youths to seek elections into the parliaments of the local government councils and state Houses of Assembly.

The minister gave the advice yesterday during graduation and conferment of the Legislative Mentorship Initiative (LMI) Fellowship ceremony held at the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) in Abuja.

The event was the second cohort of the LMI, a mentorship programme started by a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, who is the current Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu.

The minister, who said young politicians produced significant upsets and unseated incumbents in the 2023 elections said, "I will be glad if more young men and women run for political offices in 2027 as councillors and Houses

of Assembly members.

"It is better to take up leadership at the grassroots levels and grow to become major political players in the state and the national levels."

Quoting a report by Yiaga Africa, the minister said, youth representation in the legislature improved slightly.

She said, “Compared to the

2015 and 2019 elections, the 2023 elections marked a notable increase in the representation of young people in both the National and State Houses of Assemblies.

"In the House of Representatives, youth representation rose from 3 per cent in 2019 to 3.92 per cent, signifying a 0.9 per cent increase.

“Similarly, there was a 0.3 per cent increase at the state level, from 8.9 per cent to 9.2 per cent in youth representation in state assemblies.

AFCON 2023: Nigerian May Lose $500m to Extortion at Seme, Ghanaian Border Posts Femi Solaja Hard times await Nigerian football fans hoping to be part of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament in Cote d’Ivoire early next month following reports of high level of extortion of passengers travelling along the West Coast for legitimate reasons.

The 34th edition of the AFCON tournament holds between January 13th and February 11th, 2024 and Super Eagles of Nigeria are one of the prime teams tipped to be on the podium on the final day.

With the high cost of local and international air travels, thousands of Nigeria football fans have concluded plans to

journey along the West Coast not just to save travel costs but to enjoy the cruise along the coastal line from the Seme border to the final destination which is Cote d’Ivoire for the premier continental football tournament.

With many tourist organisations already engaging Nigerians with different tour packages over two months ago and the

bolstering of Nigeria Football Supporters Club who had revived its other chapters in the neighbouring countries, it is expected that hundreds of thousands of football lovers will want to be in Abidjan, the capital city, where Super Eagles will play the host nation in one of the Group A matches.

However, an unidentified

Nigerian who is based in Canada and posted his ordeal on social media yesterday warned that those who have made plans to hit Abidjan via the same route should prepare for the high level of extortion unless the federal government moves fast and check unscrupulous activities of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) officials at the border posts.

Katsina DomesticatesViolence Against Persons Prohibition Inaugurates committee for gender-based violence Francis Sardauna in Katsina The Katsina State Government has domesticated the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act 2015 to curb incessant cases of violence across state.

The Act was officially assented into law and unveiled by Governor

Dikko Umaru Radda yesterday during the inauguration of a steering committee on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) at the Government House.

The ceremonial assent of the law, which was done at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, was attended by members of the civil society organisations, security agen-

cies and top government officials.

Speaking while unveiling the Act, Radda said the VAPP would help in reducing the menace of violence, especially gender-based violence and ensure that the perpetrators were prosecuted in the state.

The governor explained that his administration has a zero tolerance

policy towards gender-based violence and other criminalities, hence, the signing of the VAPP Act into law.

He said that the Violence Against Persons Prohibition law would provide support to survivors and protect the rights of women and children, adding that his government remained resolute to an egalitarian society.

UNILAG Attracts N11.5bn Research Grant, PEPC Fetes 700 Ikorodu LAWMA Pa Ogbuefi Ejike Awgu for Burial January 12 Undertakes Redesign of Academic Programmes Sweepers with Relief Packs Funmi Ogundare

Vice Chancellor, University of Lagos ( UNILAG), Akoka, Prof.

Folasade Ogunsola, yesterday, disclosed that the institution is currently undertaking major redesign of some of its academic programmes in Architecture, Creative Arts and Mass Communications and establishing them as stand-alone faculties to foster growth in the fields and produce future-ready graduates.

She also added that the university has continued to forge ahead in research and has attracted a total

research grants worth over N11, 511, 906, 630.20.

Prof. Ogunsola who made this known while giving her scorecard at a media parley, explained that the redesign was in response to industry needs and emergent global standards.

According to her, "We are guided by the CCMAS prescriptions, but I am bold to say that we are also self-driven undertaking some of the restructuring by unbundling our programmes. Our aim is to ensure that we offer the best to our students and ensure we deliver

Sets to support 20, 000 vulnerable people

Ferdinand Ekechukwu PEPC Foundation has feted 700 Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) workers in Ikorodu division with relief materials.

Like the previous editions, this year’s edition was also themed, 'Love Beyond Xmas' targeting 20,000 families across the state.

This gesture is an annual intervention that has been on for five years, extending to areas such

as Ibeju Lekki, Lagos Island and Lagos Mainland.

The event which held last Monday at Igbogbo Stadium, Ikorodu, excited the LAWMA workers across the area of the state.

The Foundation every Christmas put smiles on the faces of senior citizens, widows and single mothers in different parts of Lagos State, in continuation of its usual gesture of giving support to the vulnerable people.

The family of Late Ogbuefi Joseph Ejike Awgu of Obuluhu Village Isulo in Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State has announced the burial arrangements for their patriarch who passed on September 6, 2023, at the age of 78. A statement by the deceased's eldest son, Mr. John Chuks Awgu, said the Christian wake-keep will take place at his country home in Obuluhu Village Isulo on Thursday, January 11,2023. On Friday, January 12, his body will leave the mortuary at 8a.m. to his compound for lying in state, which will be followed by condolence visit by in-laws, friends and well wishers.

Funeral service will be conducted in his honour by Our Saviour's Anglican Church Isulo, followed interment at his compound and reception. Condolences continues on Saturday. There will be an outing service on Sunday, January 14,at Our Saviour's Anglican Church Isulo. The deceased, who was fondly called 'Man of Peace' by admirers, was survived by his second wife, children, grandchildren, relatives, amongst whom is Mrs. Ekene Blessing Ajunwa, wife of the News Editor, THISDAY Awgu on Saturday, Mr. Charles Ajunwa.

15

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾DECEMBER 23, 2023

TECH HUB

AYODEJI AKE 07056085642

Addressing Challenges in Nigeria’s Tech Landscape Ayodeji Ake writes that without tackling the basic challenges confronting the tech ecosystem, Nigeria may be found wanting on the global tech map.

O

n May 29, 2023, President Bola Tinubu unveiled his Renewed Hope agenda, which also included prioritising the Nigerian tech industry and creating millions of jobs for youths in line with his strategy to reduce unemployment.

This agenda birthed the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program through the office of the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Mr. Bosun Tijani.

The 3MTT programme aims at building Nigeria’s technical talent backbone to power its digital economy and position Nigeria as a net talent exporter.

At various meetings Tinubu had with global business leaders and including that with the tech founder of Microsoft and CoChair of the Gates Foundation, Bill Gates, President Tinubu was able to persuasively convince the billionaire to invest in Nigerian technology and other sectors.

However, despite these efforts by the federal government to position Nigeria on the global tech map, challenges still abound with little efforts to address them.

Factors Hindering Tech Development Speaking to THISDAY, a Nigerian-based tech expert, Mr. Abiodun Adebayo, lamented that although Nigeria was channeling efforts to ensure the tech industry was developed under the present administration, the issue of poor power supply seems to be one of the major threats.

He noted that digitalisation has promoted remote jobs across all sectors, noting however that it has been difficult for the tech industry to perform. Even with backup plans like – generators and solar, the removal of fuel subsidy that resulted to hike in the price of petrol, is taking a toll on the output of the industry. Speaking further, Adebayo, noted that poor internet facilities was also hindering the tech industry from attaining its full potential. He revealed that some tech experts residing in Nigeria who work for international brands risk losing their jobs due to poor internet facilities.

“You pay for a subscription and yet don’t get value for your money. No employer enjoys excuses,” he said.

In the same vein, the tech expert lamented lack of internet access even in the urban areas.

“Challenges hindering tech development in Nigeria include inadequate infrastructure, shortage of electricity, and limited and slow internet access. “Lack of adequate funding for research studies. Difficulty with access to capital, privacy and trust issues, and use of inadequate devices by Nigerian “One significant factor is the lack of infrastructure and resources. Developed countries are advanced in infrastructure and resources. While Nigeria still struggles with inadequate infrastructure for technological development. This includes poor internet connectivity and limited access to electricity in some areas.

“When you compare technology in Nigeria

Tinubu

to advanced countries like Japan, the United States, South Korea, and China, you can rightly conclude that our tech sector has a lot of catching up to do. But a look at the West African country’s tech sector over the recent years will reveal a significant amount of growth and a positive view of us getting on the global map soon.”

He concluded that Nigeria needs to do more in tech research and advocated that the federal government and other stakeholders need to make available adequate funding for research if the present administration was ready for technology development.

Adebayo noted that there has been so much attention on financial technology companies (fintechs).

According to him, it’s unfortunate that when anyone in Nigeria thinks of tech, they only think of fintech which has taken over 50 per cent of the Nigeria industry and urged the federal government to shift focus to maximise the potential of the technology across all sectors. He also stressed the need to infuse technology in primary and secondary education curriculum. “Aside from fintech, Nigeria can also explore the agricultural sector, and with this, we can improve our exports and reduce imports. This move can also increase our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and also strengthen the naira against other currencies.

“Nigeria can also explore more on the services sector such as telecommunications to improve Internet connectivity in the country.

“Nigeria also needs to explore more on the education sector by investing in the grassroots (the primary and secondary) by providing necessary equipment and tools in schools to equip young Nigeria adequately for the Future,” he said.

In his contribution, Ethical Hacker and Chief Executive Officer of PawaPlus, Mr. Ahmed Apatira, who majors in energy technology, noted that despite innovations and programs by the current administration, the chances of technology development in Nigeria in the next five years was not

guaranteed. Among other issues, Apatira emphasised very low adoption as millions of Nigerians still live below the poverty line and accessibility.

“In the next five years, we are not there yet, but we will still be on track. From a Nigerian perspective, five years is short.

Our adoption in Nigeria is still very low because we have more people living below the poverty line, and more people living in rural areas and accessibility is a challenge which is why developers try as much as possible to build simple apps for rural consumers trying to bring them on board but I don’t see us getting there in the next five years.

“Electric vehicles are getting popular all over the world and even when you see one in an urban area it surprises the residents.

The next five years are not feasible but there will be development. We need to do more in terms of technological adoption. In the next five years, we will be on the path.

Setting agenda for 2024 Applauding the federal government’s efforts to make Nigeria a tech hub for African countries by partnering with top global tech brands, Adebayo urged the federal government to look inward to solve basic challenges to aid smooth tech operations.

“As earlier pointed out, there is no way technology can thrive in Nigeria without electricity. If 24-hour electricity is impossible, which I feel is possible in a giant country like Nigeria, at least we should have 20 to 22 hours.

“Not only will the tech industry thrive but other tech-aided sectors. Also, the government and other stakeholders should consider putting infrastructure in place for smooth tech operations. Without infrastructure there is no tech,” he said. In his view, Apaira called for more investments as well as deliberate plans to change the narrative for the Nigerian technology ecosystem.

“The government needs to do more. About five years ago, something happened that only a few people who are in the system understood.

“For the first time in history, data has become more valuable than oil. The most valuable commodity now is no more oil but data. “How much you can utilise data gives an understanding of how the world works. Today advanced countries are investing so much in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data gathering.

“Our government is not doing more and needs to do more. They need a rethink and be deliberate in developing our technology ecosystem. In the past, we mocked India but today they are doing better technologically.

“They respect Nigerians because they know we are technologically sound, but they are deliberate about development that earned what we are all seeing today.

“Technology is what changes the world.

Former United States President, Donald Trump, won his election using technology.

Through technology, they can read voters’ behaviour and develop effective targeted campaigns.

WeTech Holds Women Tech Entrepreneurs Conference The Women in Technology (WeTech) recently organised its second annual conference with the theme, ‘Founders Conference: Women Defining Tech Entrepreneurship.”

The WeTech was launched in 2018, as a non-governmental organisation, focusing on fostering more women tech entrepreneurs.

Its flagship event, the annual Women in Tech Conference, launched in 2022, unites inspiring female leaders and provides mentorship, professional development resources, and hiring opportunities. This year’s edition emphasised WeTech’s commitment to breaking barriers. The conference featured a founder’s pitch segment, awarding N1.5 million seed funding to a promising tech startup.

WeTech’s founder, Gabriella Uwadiegwu, highlighted the urgency of increasing women’s representation in tech.

The deliberate selection of conference speakers, including women who secured institutional capital and venture investors, reflected the organisation’s strategy to impact the tech community positively. “With over 2,000 women impacted and programs enabling more than 100 women, WeTech aims to address bottlenecks limiting women’s participation in Nigeria’s tech sector.

“Conference discussions emphasised the pivotal role of non-profits in fostering purpose-driven entrepreneurship for economic development,” the organisation stated.

Panelists, including Flora Uwadiegwu, Co-Founder of WeTech, KaosiAnyanwu, Founder of StemBridge, and Nsikan Ubi, CEO of NUBI Consulting, stressed the need for NGOs to be purpose-driven. The ‘Scaling Up: Growth Strategies for Female-Led Tech Startups,’ panel provided insights from industry leaders, including Fade Ogunro, CEO of Bookings Africa, Nela Duke-Ekpenyong, Partner at Ingressive Capital, Kate Victory-Edema, Growth Marketer at Founders Factory Africa, and Uju Uzo-Ojinnaka, CEO of Traders of Africa (TOFA).

The ‘Decoding the Art of VC Funding,’ session, featuring Nissi Madu, Managing Partner at CcHUB, Tosin Faniro-Dada, Partner at Breega, Dolapo Morgan, Investor at Ventures Platform Fund, and Miishe Addy, Co-founder & CEO of Jetstream Africa Limited, explored successful funding strategies.

Experts Brainstorm on Tech Opportunities for Youths

Tech experts across various sectors held a brainstorming and interactive session on opportunities and skills through technology for Nigerian youths.

The event tagged ‘Industry 4.0 Unleashed: Technologies, Opportunities and Skills’ organised

by Digify Pro and supported by Meta, held recently in Lagos, engaged about 15 tech experts who brain-fed attendees on limitless potentials of the tech industry, career, and essential skills navigating the tech industry.

Addressing journalists, the Program Director DigifyNg, Mrs. Florence Olumodimu, said the annual progarmme was designed to provide valuable insights for young individuals, guiding them on initiating their journeys, strategically positioning themselves, and acquiring employable digital skills.

“Digify Africa is a non-profit organisation for the capacity development of unemployed African youths and we have also been able to not only give them the skill but also help to place them in work.

“This is the third edition and is to highlight the opportunity in tech. This event is sponsored

by Meta and they support everything we do.

“Over 350 Nigerian youths have been trained.

We do a boot camp where they come in and learn skills. But you have to be a graduate and must be between 18 and 30 years old.

“You must have finished your NYSC. I’m proud to say that one of them who graduated in 2018 is now the Chief Operating Officer of an agency where six years ago we were looking for a job for him. But today we have success stories to tell the world,” she said.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾DECEMBER 23, 2023

Social Media Bit

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said Pyongyang would not hesitate to launch a nuclear attack if an enemy provokes it with nuclear weapons, state media reported on Thursday, December 21, 2023. Kim made the remark as he met with soldiers working for the military’s missile bureau and congratulated them on Pyongyang’s recent launching drill of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), KCNA news agency said.

The Nigeria police have dismissed two special constabularies caught on camera demanding money from a Dutch power bike cyclist in November. The two special constabularies, Jimoh Lukmon and Kareem Fatai, who were on duty along Moniya-Iseyin road were seen in a viral video demanding money from the tourist who told them she was en route to Abuja.

Same-sex marriage isn’t biblical, Pastor Kumuyi The General Overseer of Deeper Christian Life Ministry, William Kumuyi, says same-sex marriage is not biblical. In an address at the opening ceremony of a joint event of the Global Crusade with Kumuyi (GCK) and the 2023 National December Retreat tagged “Emmanuel”, Kumuyi said he would only adhere to the teachings of Christ on marriage. He asserted that the command of Christ Jesus was for a man to get married to a woman.

Trending photo of singer Portable in his ‘Detty December’ outfit

NSCDC Officer Behind Viral ‘Oga at the Top’ Promoted to Deputy CG

Four Nigerian health workers have been jailed in Wolverhampton, U.K. after they were caught on film physically and emotionally abusing an elderly patient.

According to the police, the woman, 89, was at a Wolverhampton care home. She has vascular dementia and cannot speak. The BBC reported that the health workers were caught on film physically and emotionally abusing the elderly patient. The police officers also disclosed that her family had secretly installed a camera and recorded the abuse. Ame Tunkara, Morounranti Adefila, Danny Ohen, and Bridget Aideyan, were all found guilty and sentenced at Wolverhampton Crown Court.

The family had noticed bruising on the woman’s arm after she had been in the home for a year while she had also become nervous and was scared to be touched, detectives added. Eight care assistants were charged and four were found not guilty after a trial.

with

SUNDAY EHIGIATOR 07064693603

Japa: France bans Nigerian students, and others from bringing their families The French parliament has passed legislation prohibiting Nigerian students and others from bringing their families to France.

According to a report by the BBC on Thursday, the measure was supported by both President Emmanuel Macron’s centrist Renaissance party and Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally. In calculating eligibility for benefits, a contentious rule discriminates between citizens and migrants, including those who are legally present in the nation.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 23, 2023 • T H I S D AY

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 23, 2023

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Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394 Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Tems Unlocks Closet for Charity Ferdinand Ekechukwu

I

f there is something Tems (Temilade Openiyi) knows how to do aside from good music, it is certainly her ability to blend sexiness DQG HOHJDQFH HͿRUWOHVVO\ The Nigerian songstress has risen as a fashionista, sporting high end designer labels and turning heads at award shows.

Remember her “custom white sculptural gown” to the Oscars this year had everyone talking about the “controversial” dress at the 95th Oscar Awards, in which she was nominated for her work with

Rihanna on the “Wakanda Forever” track ‘Lift Me Up’.

The “Crazy Things” crooner recently hosted a successful wardrobe VDOH ZKHUH VKH RͿHUHG IDQV DQG fashion enthusiasts a chance to pick from her closet. This was the second of her yearly wardrobe sales and harmonious blend of music DQG VW\OH D WUXH UHÁHFWLRQ RI WKH artist’s creativity.

Noteworthy, the singer intends to donate 100 per cent of the proceeds from the sale to charity projects under Women at Risk International Foundation (WARIF). The singer expressed her desire to not only collaborate with the organisation

but also to bring awareness to its goals through her wardrobe sales.

Tems revealed that prior to the sales, “I’ve been planning for this sale where every year I sell out my closet, worn and unworn, tagged and untagged, all my bags, all my glasses, all my boots all my shoes. I just cleanse myself of everything I’ve ever bought that year and I do it annually.”

By doing so, Tems believes she could simultaneously tackle her shopaholic tendencies and contribute to causes that need attention.

“I decided to start doing that last \HDU EHFDXVH ÀUVW RͿ , WKLQN ,·P D shopaholic. I’m acknowledging the problem you see,” she added.

Tems

Damilola Elliott:

Photographers Not Getting Accolades We Deserve Fast-thriving photographer, Damilola Elliott has had the privilege of documenting events, including music concerts and festivals, and more so The Experience, which arguably is one of the world’s largest gospel events. The creative director and lead photographer at Damell Photography, takes Ferdinand Ekechukwu through his journey into photography, his experience with The Experience since inception and many more…

C

an you take us through your background and how you started?

My journey into photography started while I was studying Architecture at the University of Lagos.

I had always been someone who is creative and artistically inclined. At that time, studying Architecture was how I felt I could express my innate artistic traits. While in school, one of my courses had to do with photographing VWUHHW IXUQLWXUH , SXUFKDVHG P\ ÀUVW FDPHUD for this project; it was a Canon 2-megapixel camera. That camera and school project opened my eyes to the direction I needed to take my career – photography. It’s a few years down the line now, and this photography has taken me to several countries around the world, given me the opportunity to document interesting human and environmental stories, national assets and projects and also meet some of the most amazing humans ever.

What is unique about Damell Photography and how did you become Principal Photographer of The Experience?

Our attention to detail and putting the client ÀUVW LV VRPHWKLQJ WKDW KDV EHHQ ZRUNLQJ IRU us since inception. I have a job, and it’s to tell stories through my lens in the most appropriate way possible. Getting to this point required a lot of diligence and focus. Being a part of the Damilola Elliott behind the scenes planning activities over the years and understanding The Experience brand The Experience 18 was a success. How was as a whole, has helped me tell the story from it for you as the principal photographer? a 360 degree point of view.

Like every The Experience event before this one, You have been part of The Experience since it requires a lot of “giving it your all”, especially it started less than two decades ago, how big since it’s an all-day/all-night event for us. My is this concert and the amount of preparations team and I went into it with the mindset of telling its story from as many perspectives as that goes into it?

Arguably, The Experience is the world’s largest possible. After the event, we get saddled with gospel music event in documented history. I must the responsibility of sorting through thousands say, I count it an incredible honour to have been and thousands of photographs for archiving right there, behind the scenes, from its inception and press/social media consumption. in 2006. When Pastor Paul Adefarasin, Senior As the principal photographer, does it saddle Pastor of the House on the Rock Church and The Convener of The Experience shared the idea of you with much expectation to deliver considering WKH YHU\ ÀUVW 7KH ([SHULHQFH LW ZDV D ELW VWUDQJH the magnitude of The Experience?

An event like The Experience cannot be hidto us, but we bought into the vision and gave it our all. Unless you’re a part of the planning den….its story has to be told. As a Photographer, workforce, you have no idea the magnitude of it’s my responsibility to tell that story from as what goes on behind the scenes to put together many angles as possible. The perspective of the the 10 hours plus all night event. Several months artiste on stage, the individual in the crowd, the of strategising, going back and forth and a lot refreshment vendor amongst others, all have to of prayers, certainly makes the dream work. I be considered. I remember back in 2006 while celebrate the never give up and can-do spirit of SODQQLQJ IRU WKH ÀUVW HGLWLRQ 3DVWRU 3DXO FDOOHG excellence in Pastor Paul Adefarasin. The synergy me and said, “Dami, you’ve got this”. That between him, the volunteer workers team and VWDWHPHQW VHW P\ IHHW RQ ÀUH , GLG QRW KDYH D contracted service providers over the years, is team of photographers working with me at the what has led to this global phenomenon, with time, so I would walk the length and breadth of the entire grounds of the Tafawa Balewa WRQV DQG WRQV RI WHVWLPRQLHV ÁRZLQJ DIWHU square, taking photos of practically every activity,

cinematographers are being appreciated and recognised in this part of the world as regards their relevance?

To be honest, I don’t think we are getting the accolades we truly deserve across board. I must celebrate the people and organisations that over the years, have been giving us the honour that’s truly due to us. Things are indeed getting better in the industry, as some of us have paved the way, swallowed the bitter pills and laid the foundation for others to build on. We are coming out with amazing creative contents that are getting global celebration and recognition. I’m glad the industry is headed in the right direction, as there are more victories to win.

Your colleagues like Bayo Omoboriowo and Tolani Alli have gone on to become Personal Photographers of ex-President Buhari and ex-VP Osinbajo respectively, what is your take on this and would you consider also accepting such assignments?

I am so excited to see what Bayo and Tolani have done with the opportunities they were given. I’d like to add Ademola Olaniran, personal Photographer to the current Governor of Lagos State to that list. These guys have shown that political stories can be told through the camera lens in very creative ways that positively engage your intellect and emotions. If given the opportunity, I’d weigh all the options involved and go for it, as long as it’s one that comes with a lot of adventure.

LQFOXGLQJ WKH FULFNHW SLWFK IRU WKH RYHUÁRZ I remember back then, before the advent of using drones in Nigeria, I would climb up the top of one of the two tall towers behind the TBS grounds, so that I could get aerial photos of the square. Back in 2008, we engaged the services of a helicopter company to get aerial footage of The Experience. Sitting in that helicopter gave me room to create aerial images of The Experience event and its environs like have never been seen before.

Knowing Pastor Paul as one who doesn’t just expect excellence, but the exceptional, my team and I have always had that as the driving force that propel us to deliver on our task. This is done in collaboration with the e-Team volunteer workforce of photographers and social media content creators.

Are there other major events you have been part of? , ZDV WKH R΀FLDO SKRWRJUDSKHU IRU 7KH Legacy Live, A Tribute Concert for Nelson 0DQGHOD LQ /DJRV $OVR WKH R΀FLDO SKRtographer for the Lagos premiere of the following movies: SELMA, 93 Days and CAPTIVE, among others.

Do you think photographers and

What has been the milestone for Damell Photography?

As a photographer, I see the accomplishment of every brief as the attainment of a milestone.

Over the course of my career, I’ve been privileged to have my works published on the covers of several books, magazines, online publications and printed in private collections. I’m honoured to have some of the photos I’ve took at The Experience over the years; grace the walls of the Rock Cafe Restaurant at the Rock Cathedral Lagos.

What is the future of photography business in Nigeria?

The future of photography and the creative industry at large in Nigeria is extremely bright.

7KH DGYHQW RI $UWLÀFLDO ,QWHOOLJHQFH KDV RSHQHG new vistas with unlimited possibilities to tap into.

What motivates you as a creative?

Several things motivate me; one of which is WKH HQYLURQPHQW , ÀQG P\VHOI DW DQ\ SRLQW LQ time. I take a lot of inspiration from the people, their culture and way of life. If I’m working on a client’s brief for a non-human project, say RLO DQG JDV DVVHWV SURÀOLQJ RU 5HDO HVWDWH WKHQ the details of the brief spur my motivation to deliver as requested and then some.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 23, 2023

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Tosin Clegg

07062816737 e-mail: tosinclegg@hotmail.com

Best Okoduwa Partners Folasade Osibo on 7th of the 3rd

Tosin Clegg

T

he 7th of The 3rd is an indigenous intense dramatic love story told in both a contemporary and traditional clime.

The premise of the story borders around a well-kept secret from several decades back, manifesting in the lives of a young and innocent couple.

A family-centric intriguing love story with a huge touch of African voodoo and tradition. It features seasoned actors such as Blossom Chukwujekwu, Uche Montana, Tina Mba, Akin Lewis, Fred Amata, Mofe Duncan, Anthony Monjaro, Duke Elvis, Agnes Obi among others. Written by UK-based writer, Folasade Osibo with production and directing credits to multiple award-

ZLQQLQJ ÀOPPDNHU %HVW 2NRGXZD Shot in Lagos and Oyo states, the WLWOH UHÁHFWV WKH GHSWK RI WKH VWRU\ 7KH critical events of the story happened on 7th day of the 3rd month with its cast intentionally and meticulously sourced due to the sensitivity of the story intended to be told.

The Director, Best Okoduwa commented that, “The talent, skill and emotions that Blossom Chukwujekwu and Uche Montana bring to the table are unrivaled.

Their delivery on the movie is awardwinning.

“We didn’t encounter many challenges ÀOPLQJ DV WKH FUHZ DQG WKH FDVW IRUPHG a very amiable professional bond. The major challenge was the dynamics of WKH ÀOP EXGJHW “Pre-production and production were caught up in the fuel subsidy removal

as well as the dollar hike era and that DͿHFWHG RXU EXGJHW VLJQLÀFDQWO\ µ Viewers can expect a refreshing story of love and hope as secrets are intertwined with tradition, creating a captivating tapestry of suspense and cultural richness.

As the narrative unfolds, the audience is drawn into a world where each secret unraveled reveals a new layer of the characters’ intricate connections to their heritage.

The cinematography beautifully captures the essence of tradition, while the suspenseful plot keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Set to be released in theaters nationwide and on streaming platforms in 2024, the production team ensured they would EH RͿHULQJ QRWKLQJ EXW TXDOLW\ DQG good entertainment.

Okoduwa

UnitedMasters Seeks to Tap into Opportunities in Nigeria to Promote Artistes Tosin Clegg

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Davido

oftware and services platform for independent artists, UnitedMasters is to birth in Nigeria this December. ,W LV H[SHFWHG WR EHJLQ RͿHULQJ services to Nigerian creatives in collaboration with several brand partners like; Tequila Don Julio, Coca~Cola, Tik Tok, Snapchat and more. Also they would be unveiling the UnitedMasters’ mobile app ZKLFK SURYLGHV PDQ\ EHQHÀWV WR DUWLVWV under the organisation’s umbrella; such as increased transparency regarding artists’ earnings through the mobile app, where real-time streaming data will be available.

The move is part of its objectives of empowering independent African music creators worldwide.

Birthed about 10 years ago, its goal is to enable artists maximise their creative and economic potential by giving them all the tools and support they would need to directly connect with their fans.

Through its unique mix of premium music distribution services, LQQRYDWLYH WHFKQRORJ\ DQG ÀUVW RI its-kind artist marketing solutions, the company acts as the operating system that enables artists to own their futures.

Independent artists that sign up on the mobile app could choose from D UDQJH RI SODQV WKDW RͿHU FXUDWHG services to them based on where they feel they are in their career trajectory. These plans are broken down into three tiers as follows: Debut, Select & Partner.

KingMic Embarks on His ‘Careless’ Music Adventure Tosin Clegg

B

uzzing Afropop artist Michael Oladosu, popularly known as KingMIC takes centre stage as he covered the SIMPLE Magazine’s December digital edition.

The artiste is ‘Careless’ about his new music adventure - and in a good way too. Even his new single, which is a prelude to his upcoming EP project, is called ‘Careless’ - emphasising and admonishing a state of not taking life too seriously.

Since commencing his sonic journey in

2018, he has meticulously crafted a sonic signature that pulsates with the resonant sounds that appeal, each a testament to his ever-evolving artistry. Songs like ´%DPLGHOH µ ´:DLWLQJ )RU <RX µ DQG WKH XEHU FDWFK\ ´+DDDµ KDYH EHFRPH PDUNHUV of his continually growing stature - even extending beyond the shores of Nigeria.

In this exclusive feature, he shared personal anecdotes, giving readers an authentic glimpse into the motivations and inspirations that fuel his creativity. The narrative unfolded and weaved together the threads of passion, perseverance, and the unyielding spirit that propels him forward in his ever-evolving adventure.

King Mic

The Select Plan, which has become the PRVW SRSXODU SODQ RͿHULQJ D ZLGH UDQJH of services, including 100 per cent royalties’ retention for all users would be available exclusively to Nigerian users at a massively discounted price.

The Founder & CEO of UnitedMasters Inc., Steve Stoute, said: “Wherever our company goes, we bring valuable brand partnerships with us. These brands don’t operate as sponsors, but as active investors in the Independent movement and the artists themselves.

“Brands like Don Julio and Coca~Cola FOHDUO\ VHH WKH EHQHÀW RI DOLJQLQJ WKHPVHOYHV with the artists of Nigeria, but more so believe that they can play a major role in the perpetuation of Nigerian music’s FXOWXUDO LPSDFW DFURVV WKH JOREH µ The technology platform empowers over 1.9 million global independent artists to distribute their music and reach their fullest potentials.

Users would also have access to unlimited music distribution to dozens of global platforms such as Spotify, Facebook, Instagram, $SSOH 0XVLF <RXWXEH 6QDS 7LN 7RN DQG the most relevant music services in Africa which includes Boomplay, Audiomack, Muska and a few others.

There are also some additional features like the shareable MasterLinks, customisable ArtistPages, and fan management tools which would help independent Nigerian artists in building their audiences while driving streams.

Users could access the UnitedMasters mobile app via Web, Android and iOS. Beyond traditional distribution methods, 8QLWHG0DVWHUV DOVR RͿHUV WKHLU DUWLVWV DFcess to new ways to grow their fan bases as showcased by the announcement that UnitedMasters’ partnership with the NBA, wherein the league uses music from the platform to soundtrack their social content, will expand their partnership to cover NBA Africa as well.

Izu Okwuobasi Unveils Exhibition Tosin Clegg

T

Okwuobasi

he Million Mile is a metaphor for all the collective miles of migration of Nigerians out of Nigeria in search of greener pastures. Construction Engineer cum Travel Photographer, Izu Okwuobasi captured his two-day exhibition as a metaphor for all the miles that he had traveled to capture these photos and bring his experience.

With the Japa trend increasingly becoming a goal for most youths in Nigeria this exhibiWLRQ VHHNV LQ SURYLGLQJ ÀUVW KDQG LQVLJKWV LQWR migration and its impacts.

He said, “As you embark on a journey through my photographs, I wish to share the heart of the narrative my journey which is not only a UHÁHFWLRQ RI P\ H[SHULHQFHV EXW D WDSHVWU\ RI

a legacy handed down by my late father.

“My father, alongside his brothers, ventured to America in pursuit of ‘greener pastures,’ a journey many from our homeland of Nigeria have aspired to. Tragically, his life was cut short, assassinated just three days after I turned 18. His untimely death left a void DQG D OHJDF\ , IHOW FRPSHOOHG WR FRQWLQXH µ He further commented that, “My career at WKH WLPH DV D ÀHOG DQG FRQVWUXFWLRQ HQJLQHHU became the vessel for my exploration of America. It led me to the corners of the country that narratives often leave untouched - the swamps, plains, mountains, and quiet towns with stories waiting to be told.

“As I traversed this vast land, I captured moments of raw beauty and truth: horses galloping across a Native American reservation in North Dakota, the solemnity of a Civil War graveyard in Vicksburg, the haunting silence of run-down towns like Brooksville, and the

iconic grandeur of Mount Rushmore.

“These photographs, shared online, resonated with many, revealing an America that exists beyond the silver screen and SRVWFDUGV WKH UHDO $PHULFD µ The exhibition which took place between the 16th and 17th of December 2023 stands DV WKH ÀYH \HDU PDUN RI WKLV MRXUQH\ DQG D time to weave the threads into a narrative that not only pays homage to his father’s memory but also invites viewers to see America through another set of eyes - the eyes of a young Nigerian bound by hope, loss, and the relentless pursuit of a dream.

Izu added that, “This exhibition is crucial in establishing myself as a recognised artist and photographer. Success here means gaining recognition for my unique narrative and artistic vision, which blends the journey of Nigerian immigrants with my personal H[SORUDWLRQ RI $PHULFD µ

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 23, 2023

24

AUTO WORLD

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

TIPS OF THE WEEK

Signs of An Exhaust Leak

People taking advantage of the 50% slash in bus fare

ALBON Begins Full Implementation of 50% Fare Discount on Various Routes

T

he Association of Luxury Bus Owners of Nigeria (ALBON), the owners and operators of long distance mass transit interstate bus service nationwide, has assured the travelling public that its members have commenced full implementation of the 50 percent fare reduction approved by President Bola Tinubu.

A statement signed jointly by ALBON President, Nonso Ubajaka and the Honorary Secretary, Frank Nneji, said members’ vehicles are now collecting 50 percent of the applicable fares on the routes announced by the Federal Government when the presidential gesture was announced on Wednesday.

7KH VSHFLDO IDUH GLVFRXQW ZLOO WDNH HͿHFW GXULQJ the festive period on Thursday, December 21, 2023, and will end on January 4, 2024.

The press statement enjoined passengers travelling during this festive period to take advantage of the President’s magnanimous gesture intended to lessen their transportation

cost, to travel to their various destinations.

Some of the routes listed are Lagos to major cities in the north, and south-east, and southsouth, including, Kano, Abuja, Kaduna, Zaria, Jos, Onitsha, Owerri, Enugu, Nsukka, Abakailiki, Aba, Uyo and Port Harcourt, among others.

Also covered are Onitsha to Lagos, and various destinations in the north, including, Kano, Abuja,Sokoto, Jos, and Gombe, as well as Aba-Owerri-Abuja; and Aba-Lagos.

Passengers departing Abuja to Maiduguri, Sokoto, Lagos, Onitsha/Owerri/Port Harcourt, Enugu/Abakaliki, Kano and Gombe routes, will also pay only half of the current fares.

The ALBON statement also said, “All our members’ companies are involved in this exercise.

They include, among others: Young Shall Grow Nig Ltd; Chisco Transport Ltd; Izuchukwu Transport Nig. Ltd; ABC Transport Plc; GUO Transport Ltd; God Bless Ezewanta Nig. Ltd; SD Express Ltd; Welfare Transport Nig. Ltd; Ifesinachi Transport Nig. Ltd; E Ekesons Nig. Ltd; Ifeanyi Chukwu Industries & commercial Ltd; Bonnyway Motor Ltd; Delta Express Ltd;

and God Is Good Motors Ltd. The listed operators involved in the fare discount “are providing 11,118 seats per day for the duration of the exercise,” which ends on January 4, 2024.

The press release further started, “All intending passengers on the above listed are requested to go to our members various bus stations nationwide to book and board our buses on payment of only 50 percent (half the price) of the prevailing or current bus fare during WKH SHULRG RQ WKH SULQFLSOH RI ¶ÀUVW FRPH ÀUVW served,’ on the daily basis during the period” “The Association of Luxury Bus Owners of Nigeria once again commends and salutes the Federal Government of Nigeria under the listening and responsive leadership of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for this great package for the traveling masses. We also thank the Honourable Minister of Transportation Senator Ahmed Saad $ONDOL IRU KLV XQUHOHQWLQJ HͿRUWV LQ HQVXULQJ that Mr. President’s magnanimous gesture for the traveling masses during this festive period is fully implemented.

Despite Challenges, Honda Automobile Forges on at 44 Years

D

espite economic downturn as LW DͿHFWV PDQXIDFWXULQJ LQ WKH country, Honda Automobile Western Africa Ltd forges on after 10 years of operation in Nigeria and 8 years of SKD assembly, while the motorcycle arm continued the same since 1979 the factory was commissioned.

Although its production output has come down from its installed capacity of 1,000 XQLWV RI YHKLFOHV SHU DQQXP WKH DXWR ÀUP maintains that it will continue to uphold its quality standard which it has been known for since its establishment in Nigeria 44 years ago.

Speaking during a media tour of its factory in Ota, Ogun state, Managing Director, HAWA, Takashi Nakajima, said among other operational GL΀FXOWLHV WKH FRPSDQ\ LV FXUUHQWO\ H[SHULHQFLQJ challenges of foreign exchange and also the scarcity of dollars for purchase of goods and Honda assembly plant, Ota, Ogun State components for manufacturing.

According to him, the uncertainty of the market is used cars. If we have some regulaauto policy is also a challenge, which is now tions around new cars, it will help to build under discussion, adding that the direction of FRQÀGHQFH RI RXU EXVLQHVV µ the policy is not stable yet.

The company has an installed capacity of 1000 Nakajima said as an Original Equipment per year, which can be doubled if there are more Manufacturer (OEM), it needs some stimulation patronage from customers and government. from government for the market to increase.

“We have an installed capacity of 1000 per For instance, he said: “90 per cent of the year and daily capacity to assemble three

units per day. For now we are doing 50 per cent of the three units, that is, we do 1.5 units per day because of low sales and some other challenges”.

The Honda managing director said based RQ GDWD JDWKHUHG E\ LQGLYLGXDO HͿRUWV WKH company has 10 per cent market share of the industry.

Responsible for reducing the emissions your vehicle produces, your exhaust system makes these toxic gases less harmful before they leave your car and are released into the environment. A properly working exhaust system is essential for the safe operation of your vehicle.

An exhaust leak can cause dangerous gases to enter the atmosphere before being properly treated, which can cause problems like fumes in the cabin and failed emissions inspections. Many of these harmful gases are odorless, which means that you won’t realize they are leaking into the passenger cabin. Prolonged exposure to these emissions could make you and your passengers sick.

If you live in a state with emissions testing, an exhaust leak can result in failing the test, forcing you to resolve the issue before being able to legally operate your vehicle. Keep your vehicle running smoothly – learn to recognize the symptoms of an exhaust leak. If you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to make an appointment with your service provider.

Engine Noise Increased engine noise is a common sign of an exhaust leak. Listen for a loud rumble, especially while accelerating. You may also hear intermittent popping or hissing noises while the engine is running.

Loss of Acceleration and Power $Q H[KDXVW OHDN FDQ DͿHFW WKH performance of your engine. You may notice that your vehicle doesn’t have its usual pick-up-and-go when you punch down the gas pedal. Your vehicle will continue to lose power if WKH H[KDXVW OHDN LVQ·W À[HG Reduced Fuel Economy If you’re making more trips to the gas station, an exhaust leak could be the culprit. When your vehicle has an exhaust leak, your air-to-fuel ratio balance could be disrupted. Improper air-to-fuel ratio can cause the engine WR UXQ OHVV H΀FLHQWO\ FDXVLQJ LW WR UHGXFH RYHUDOO HQJLQH H΀FLHQF\ Gas Smell Smelling gas fumes inside your vehicle can be a sign of an exhaust leak. If an exhaust pipe becomes damaged it can let gas fumes escape into the passenger cabin of your vehicle.

Causes and Preventative Measures Driving on rough roads and exhaust system components with rust damage are the top causes of exhaust leaks. Driving on rough roads can cause your exhaust system to be subject to shaking and bumps that can cause holes and structural components to weaken, while rust and corrosion damage in exhaust system parts are perfect places for exhaust leaks to form.

In addition, if one of the hangers securing your exhaust system in place IDOOV RͿ RU WKH UXEEHU LVRODWRU VHFWLRQ is excessively worn, other parts could weaken or become damaged as they bounce around and take on more vibration and impact during vehicle operation.

Your best defense against exhaust leaks and the problems they cause is to have your service provider inspect the exhaust system on a regular basis.

Having your exhaust system examLQHG ZLOO KHOS \RX ÀQG DQG DGGUHVV any problems before they turn into a bigger issue.

(Source: Walker)

25

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 23, 2023

AUTO WORLD

New BMW X2 Rolls off Assembly Line for First Time in Regensburg

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t has only been a few weeks since WKH ÀUVW SKRWRV RI WKH DOO QHZ %0: X2 went around the world: Now, LW LV UROOLQJ RͿ WKH DVVHPEO\ OLQH DW %0: *URXS 3ODQW 5HJHQVEXUJ According to a statement by the DXWRPDNHU IURP QRZ RQ GLͿHUHQW W\SHV RI GULYH WUDLQ ZLOO EH ÁH[LEO\ PDQXIDF WXUHG LQ 5HJHQVEXUJ RQ D VLQJOH SURGXFWLRQ line – from models with internal combustion HQJLQHV WR SOXJ LQ K\EULGV WR IXOO\ HOHFWULF YHKLFOHV 8S WR %0: 6HULHV %0: ; DQG %0: ; PRGHOV DUH FXUUHQWO\ FRPLQJ RͿ WKH SURGXFWLRQ OLQH DW %0: *URXS 3ODQW 5HJHQVEXUJ HYHU\ ZRUNGD\ ² GHVWLQHG IRU customers worldwide. ´:LWK SURGXFWLRQ RI WKH %0: ; DQG LWV IXOO\ HOHFWULF YDULDQW WKH %0: L; ZH FRQWLQXH WR VHW WKH SDFH KHUH LQ 5HJHQVEXUJ IRU WKH UDPS XS RI HOHFWURPRELOLW\ µ FRQÀUPHG Plant Director Armin Ebner. “That we are now EXLOGLQJ D VHFRQG IXOO\ HOHFWULF PRGHO KHUH LQ Upper Palatinate will boost the site’s produc WLRQ YROXPH µ 7KH SODQW GLUHFWRU XQGHUOLQHG everyone is very proud of the new vehicle and WKH WUHPHQGRXV WHDP HͿRUW WKDW ZHQW LQWR LW

“For our team, today’s start of production is a GD\ RI HQFRXUDJHPHQW µ $IWHU DOO SURGXFWLRQ VSHFLDOLVWV LQ 5HJHQVEXUJ KDYH GRQH HYHU\WKLQJ possible in the past few months to integrate the QHZ %0: ; ´VLOHQWO\µ LQWR RQJRLQJ VWDQGDUG production – from the initial prototypes and SUH VHULHV WKURXJK H[WHQVLYH TXDOLW\ LQVSHFWLRQV up to and including comprehensive skills development for the whole manufacturing team.

“Our plant is working at full steam. The additional production volumes mean we are QRZ DGGLQJ D QLJKW VKLIW DW WKH 5HJHQVEXUJ ORFDWLRQ HͿHFWLYH LPPHGLDWHO\ ² ZLWK WKUHH VKLIW RSHUDWLRQ JRLQJ IRUZDUG µ DGGHG (EQHU %\ WKH HQG RI WKH \HDU WKH %0: *URXS will invest more than 350 million euros in YHKLFOH SURGXFWLRQ LQ 5HJHQVEXUJ FUHDWLQJ permanent jobs for around 500 new employees at the site. /HDQ JUHHQ GLJLWDO :LWK %0: L)$&725< WKH %0: *URXS LV DOVR VHWWLQJ VWDQGDUGV DQG UHGHÀQLQJ WKH IXWXUH RI DXWRPRWLYH SURGXFWLRQ DW WKH 5HJHQVEXUJ ORFDWLRQ )RU H[DPSOH %0: *URXS 3ODQW 5HJHQVEXUJ LV WKH DXWRPRWLYH LQGXVWU\·V ÀUVW SODQW ZRUOGZLGH WR XVH DQ HQG WR HQG GLJLWDOLVHG DQG DXWRPDWHG SURFHVV IRU

The new BMW X2

inspection, processing and marking of painted vehicle surfaces in standard production that UHOLHV RQ URERWV FRQWUROOHG E\ $, DUWLÀFLDO

intelligence). For the plant, this represents another step towards the digital, intelligently connected factory.

Lexus Debuts Next Generation BEV Lineup at Japan Mobility Show

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H[XV KDV FKRVHQ WKH -DSDQ 0RELOLW\ Show to unveil two stunning bat tery electric vehicle (BEV) concepts VKRZFDVLQJ QH[W JHQHUDWLRQ WHFKQRORJ\ DQG LWV H[FLWLQJ HOHFWULÀHG SURGXFW future.

Under the theme “Pushing the %RXQGDULHV RI WKH (OHFWULÀHG ([SHULHQFH µ WKH concept model lineup shows the brand’s future vision for cars and mobility experiences through HOHFWULÀFDWLRQ WKH DXWRPDNHU VDLG LQ D VWDWHPHQW A completely new modular structure for vehicle design, innovative production technology and an advanced software platform will reimagine the Lexus Driving Signature, along with new levels of personalised luxury, as Lexus commits to being DQ HOHFWULÀHG EUDQG E\ 7KH QH[W JHQHUDWLRQ RI ]HUR WDLOSLSH HPLVVLRQ /H[XV %(9V DUH H[SUHVVHG WKURXJK WKH /) =& /H[XV )XWXUH =HUR HPLVVLRQ &DWDO\VW FRQFHSW VHW for international release in 2026, and the futuristic /) =/ /H[XV )XWXUH =HUR HPLVVLRQ /X[XU\ ÁDJVKLS concept.

The Lexus approach to sustainability is also visualised in the interior design with the Bamboo

Lexus LF-ZC concept

&0) &RQFHSW 7KH EUDQG LV H[SORULQJ QHZ SRVVLELOL ties with traditional materials by weaving bamboo ÀEUHV DQG WKUHDGV LQWR KLJK TXDOLW\ HOHPHQWV RI the luxuriously crafted interior. Bamboo grows TXLFNO\ KDV D KLJK &2 DEVRUSWLRQ FDSDFLW\ DQG its beauty has been used by Takumi craftspeople in Japanese building materials for centuries.

In terms of driving performance, the inherent excellent inertia characteristics of BEVs together ZLWK /H[XV WHFKQRORJLHV VXFK DV ',5(&7 DOO ZKHHO GULYH SLRQHHUHG WKURXJK WKH 5= SURYLGHV VHDPOHVV drivability control and an intuitive, linear steering feel for the Steer By Wire system.

Lexus Targets 2026 For LF-ZC Introduction $V WKH QDPH VXJJHVWV WKH /H[XV )XWXUH =HUR HPLVVLRQ &DWDO\VW IRUPV WKH FDWDO\VW IRU QHZ HOHFWULÀHG experiences, including elevated driving dynamics, uncompromised design, and new exclusive services WKH HSLWRPH RI WKH /H[XV SURPLVH WR FUDIW FDUV that enrich the lives of its discerning customers. $V D PRGHO WKDW V\PEROLVHV WKH HOHFWULÀFDWLRQ RI /H[XV WKH /) =& KDV D ORZ FHQWUH RI JUDYLW\ and a compact silhouette with sleek proportions and a roomy cabin.

Guide on Installing New Tyres Over ten years ago, destiny brought me in contact with Ucheagwu Sabastine. Our meeting coloured my column which was then some few years old. SAB, as he is popularly called, is not just a friend and brother but a safety professional who I adore.

SAB is instrumental to a lot of the materials on tyres which I have shared with you over the years.It was therefore exciting that after we lost contact for some years then heaven again smiled on me when on December 23, 2022, my dear SAB chatted me up. It is with joy and in celebration of this friendship that I today continue my focus on another aspect of tyre.

Last week, I focused on one of the most vital needs for those who plan to travel with their personal cars this season, as well as those who operate commercial vehicles. I advised them to ensure they get new tyres before the journey and therefore gave hints on the kind of tyres to buy. If you are one of such people, I do hope you read my piece and complied accordingly by buying new tyres if needed. Today, I believe my next assignment is to guide you on how and where to install your new tyres.

So what really should be your guide?

Please read through this piece on tyres that is useful for all seasons especially now as we gradually draw the curtain on this year’s celebration. When most people buy new tyres, they tend to install them in the front axle. They give a number of reasons for doing so.

Among such reasons are that with the engine in the front, new tyres should be in the front since they are stronger so should

SAFE DRIVING with Jonas Agwu

amnipr, mcipr,mprsa,arpa Assistant Corps Marshal Zonal Commanding Officer Federal Road Safety Corps.

HͿHFWLYHO\ VXSSRUW WKH ZHLJKW RI WKH HQJLQH QHZ W\UHV ZLOO EH OHVV SURQH WR VXͿHU D EORZRXW and since blowout of a front tyre is more dangerous than that of a rear tyre, it is safer WR LQVWDOO QHZ W\UHV LQ WKH IURQW DQG IURQW W\UHV VXͿHU WKH ULJRUV RI DFFHOHUDWLRQ EUDNLQJ steering and bad road conditions more and so wear out faster than the rear tyres. So, new tyres are better installed in the front.

The above reasons sound logical, but unfortunately following that logic would land you in serious trouble. It is downright dangerous to install new tyres in the front axle especially during the rainy season.

Why? Because of a phenomenon called hydroplaning. You will observe that your tyres, if not worn out, have some grooves and channels on the threaded portion that is in contact with the ground. Those grooves and channels are designed to, among other IXQFWLRQV UHPRYH ZDWHU XQGHU WKH W\UHV RQ a wet surface so that the tyres will maintain adequate contact with the road surface for proper traction.

A situation may arise where the channels

are not able to remove water fast enough or where the channels are not deep enough because the tyres have worn out. In either situation, the tyres will not maintain contact ZLWK WKH URDG VXUIDFH DQG ZLOO VLPSO\ ÁRDW on the pool of water. This phenomenon of ÁRDWLQJ RQ ZDWHU EHFDXVH RI ODFN RI FRQWDFW with the ground is called hydroplaning. It is dangerous and may lead to loss of control and a crash. When a vehicle is hydroplaning, application of the brakes will make matters worse!

1RZ OHW XV FRQVLGHU WKH HͿHFWV RI K\GURSODQ ing with new tyres in the front axle back axles. New tyres in the front axle (Old tyres DW EDFN D[OH 1HZ W\UHV E\ QDWXUH VKRXOG have more tread depths than tyres in use.

So the tyres at the back – because they have less tread depths – will hydroplane before the new tyres in front. With the rear tyres K\GURSODQLQJ ÀUVW D VLWXDWLRQ FDOOHG 2YHU Steering may occur. This is a situation where the rear tyres will lose traction before the front tyres and the rear of the vehicle begins to slide.

2YHUVWHHULQJ LV IDU PRUH GL΀FXOW WR FRQWURO and in addition to the initial distress felt when the rear of the car starts sliding, quickly releas ing the gas pedal in an attempt to slow down PD\ DFWXDOO\ PDNH LW PRUH GL΀FXOW IRU WKH driver to regain control, possibly causing a complete spinout, loss of control and a crash.

New tyres at the back axle (old tyres in front axle). When you have new tyres at the back axle, the old ones in the front will hydroplane before the back tyres. This may lead to Understeering. This means the vehicle will continue to move in the straight forward direction even when you want to

steer it either to the left or to the right. This is easier to control. By easing up on the gas pedal, the vehicle will slow down and make it very easy for the driver to control.

7HVWLQJ ([SHULHQFH 0HPEHUV RI 7KH 7LUH 5DFN WHDP KDG WKH FKDQFH WR H[SHULHQFH K\GURSODQLQJ DW 0LFKHOLQ·V /DXUHQV 3URY LQJ *URXQGV 3DUWLFLSDQWV ZHUH DOORZHG WR drive around a large radius, wet curve in YHKLFOHV ÀWWHG ZLWK W\UHV RI GLͿHUHQW WUHDG depths – one vehicle with new tyres on the UHDU DQG KDOI ZRUQ W\UHV RQ WKH IURQW DQG the other with the new tires in the front DQG KDOI ZRUQ W\UHV RQ WKH UHDU The ability to sense and control predictable understeer with the new tyres on the rear, and the helplessness in trying to control the surprising oversteer with the new tyres on the front was emphatically proven. It is better to experience this phenomenon in the safe, FRQWUROOHG FRQGLWLRQV RI 0LFKHOLQ·V /DXUHQV 3URYLQJ *URXQGV UDWKHU WKDQ LQ WUD΀F LQ D rainstorm. In case there is any doubt, when tyres are replaced in pairs, the new tyres should always be installed on the rear axle and the worn tyres moved to the front.

Safer To Replace Your Tyres In Pairs, If Not In FoursWhen you have problem with any of your tyres and you want to replace it, it is advisable to equally replace other tyres on the same axle with the bad tyres so that you have exactly the same make, same age, VDPH SK\VLFDO FRQGLWLRQV VDPH VL]H WKH VDPH everything – on same axle. This will give \RX YHKLFOH VWDELOLW\ HͿHFWLYH FRQWURO DQG better handling. In fact, the ideal thing is to change all the four tyres at the same time.

26

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾DECEMBER 23, 2023

POLITY

Asue Ighodalo: Setting Path for Edo’s Future ahead of 2024 Guber Race Emeka Nwachukwu

O

ne terrible thing about going the wrong way is that it doesn’t always matter how long or short one stays on the path and the speed he goes on; the endpoint is always predictable—one of sadness, frustration, and regrets.

As the race for the next occupant of Dennis Osadebey Avenue heats up in Edo State, with intrigues and drama of both the absurd and the rational, the import of making the right choice as to who calls the shots in Government House, Benin City, over the next four years comes to the front burner.

Amid the political theatrics and maneuvering, this is critical because the wrong choice could mean a journey down a regrettable path, marked by retrogression, degeneration and missed opportunities, especially given the remarkable strides and progress that have been recorded in the State over the past decade.

It is noteworthy that this progress has been marked by a remarkable journey with economic revolution in agriculture, technology, manufacturing, and the creative industry, among others. One in which the decline in education has been put to a halt and the State transformed into one of Africa’s accelerator States in education, as well as a seismic shift from a civil service State to one attracting billions of dollars of investments from the private sector.

Edo State today has moved from a dark, drab, and dangerous State to one of light, safety, and security, reflecting an environment where citizens can thrive and live life to the fullest, businesses can flourish, and the quality of life is elevated.

It is therefore imperative that the choice of who takes over government in 2024 is essentially hinged on proven track records of performance, particularly in the various aspirants’ private and personal endeavours. Because, as it is often said, ‘he who is faithful with little is most likely faithful with much.’

The selection criteria for the next Edo State Governor should border on vision, pedigree, knowledge, and expertise to navigate through the political and economic headwinds and put the people on the path of much better life.

It is on this pedestal that the candidacy of Dr. Asue Ighodalo, a seasoned lawyer, banker, and accomplished

Ighodalo boardroom guru shines through the dark as an array of hope, offering Edo State and its people a trajectory that leads away from despair and towards a future of progress and prosperity.

No doubt, Asue Ighodalo’s profile is quite staggering and his candidature is already unsettling the political stratosphere in Edo State, sending jitters in the camps of other candidates.

The grapevines have it that the All Progressive Congress is already wooing a business tycoon and entrepreneur from Owan, Edo North Senatorial District in a bid to find a candidate capable of matching the impressive corporate profile of the former Chairman of Sterling Bank Plc and Chairman of Nigeria Breweries.

Ighodalo, easily appears to be the most prepared, qualified, and competent of other candidates with a clear vision and roadmap to elevate the State to new heights and proffer innovative solutions to the peculiar challenges faced by the people of the State.

With about 40 years of experience in project finance, securities and capital markets, energy and natural resources, mergers and acquisitions, and banking and securitization, Ighodalo strikes out uniquely equipped to safeguard and build upon the foundation laid by Governor Obaseki having been a part of the

vision and its realisation over the past 16 years as a member of the Economic Team under former Governor Adams Oshiomhole and now as Chairman of the Alaghodaro Investment Summit, an annual platform to rally investors into the State and showcase the progress being recorded in transforming the state into an investment haven.

Possessing a boardroom expertise arguably akin to the incumbent’s, Ighodalo brings with him a rich reservoir of knowledge and a demonstrable history of steering organisations toward success.

His profound experience in law, banking, and corporate governance uniquely situates him as a competent executor and one with the adeptness to navigate the complexities of various sectors and propel the State forward on a trajectory of accelerated and sustained growth. While acknowledging that other aspirants are distinguished and eminent sons of Edo State, each possessing qualifications and outstanding qualities befitting the role of governor, it becomes crucial for Edo people to see through the augury what lies ahead, scrutinise with discernment and choose the best of the bests-one who is rightly equipped and capable of credibly leading the State over the next four years. The focus should be on identifying a leader who can actively foster the desired progress and bring about a transformative impact on the socio-economic landscape of the State.

In concluding this piece, let me emphasise that while good and effective governance relies on building strong institutions to serve as the framework for politicians to operate in public’s best interest, it also depends on the selection of competent and trustworthy politicians who have the strength of character to uphold the values of the institutions they serve in the first place.

As the momentum continues to gather ahead of the 2024 gubernatorial election, Edo State and its people have the opportunity to choose a leader who is synonymous with experience, integrity, and a commitment to progress. Ighodalo has shown that he is the ideal and right candidate to steer Edo State to greater heights.

Edo people must not overlook the chance to choose and support this one man who truly represents the aspirations, desires, and values of the people—a leader in the person of Dr. Asue Ighodalo.

Nwachukwu, a development communication expert, writes from Benin City

L-R: Head of Sustainability and Regulatory Relations; Nigerian Breweries Plc; Chukwuemeka Aniukwu; Portfolio Manager; Non-Alcoholic Drinks; NB Plc; Mrs. Elohor Olumide-Awe; Representative of Health Stream Medicare; Dr. Aderonke Atoyebi; Managing Director; NB Plc; Hans Essaadi; Facilitator; Mission Nine-Zero; Oyo State; Dr. Aderonke Alabi and Corporate Affairs Director; NB Plc; Mrs. Sade Morgan during a press briefing to wrap up the pilot phase of Mission Nine-Zero by Maltina and Amstel brands in Lagos ...recently SUNDAY ADIGUN

L-R: Popular Nigerian Human Rights Activist and Social Influencer; Charles Oputa aka Charlie Boy; Winner of the WeNaija Video Content Contest; Blessing John; former Kebi State First lady, Her Excellency, Dr. Zainab Bagudu; CEO, Nigeria Solidarity Support Fund; Fejiro Chinye-Nwoko; at the WeNaija Youth Fest hosted by the Nigeria Solidarity Support Fund to close out the WeNaija Campaign; held in Lagos..recently

L-R: Ogun State First Lady; Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun; Founder/Chief Executive Officer; Emzor Pharmaceutical industries; Dr. Stella Okoli and the Lagos State First Lady; Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu; at the 19th Edition of the Emzor Thanksgiving Dinner in Lagos... recently... PHOTO: DAN

L-R: Hon. Commissioner for Transport; Mr Seun Osiyemi; Managing Partner of Logistix Solicitors; Mr. Kwame Nkrumah Ugoji; The Principal Private Secretary to The President; Hakeem Muri-Okunola; Group Chief Commercial Officer of Viathan Energy Group, Mr. Yemi Solar at the Pull-Out ceremony in honour of HMO as the retiring Head of Service of Lagos State which held at Alausa Secretariat Ikeja; Lagos ... recently; KUNLE OGUNFUYI

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾DECEMBER 23, 2023

27

PERSPECTIVE

Mechanical Completion of PH Refinery: NNPCL’s Christmas Gift to Nigerians Ifeanyi Onuba

T

he Port Harcourt refinery located in the oil-rich Niger Delta region of Nigeria has been operational since 1965. It is the oldest and the biggest of the three government-owned oil refining sites in the West African country.

Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the state-owned Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), is the owner and operator of the refinery. The oil refinery complex consists of a 60,000 barrels per day (bpd) old refinery that started operations in 1965 and a 150,000bpd new refinery that came on stream in 1989.

Despite having a combined crude processing capacity of 210,000bpd, the Port Harcourt refinery, like other state refineries of the country, has been operating only at a fraction of its capacity over the last few decades due to process inefficiency and lack of maintenance. This has led to the growing reliance of Nigeria, Africa’s largest crude producer, on imports of refined petroleum products.

The PHRC rehabilitation project, which costs about $1.5bn, is an EPCIC project that covers engineering, procurement, construction, installation, and commissioning phases.

For Area-5, which is a segment of the refinery that will produce 60 million barrels per day, the engineering, procurement, construction, and installation have all been completed. The mechanical completion signifies the closure of the construction and installation phases, according to NNPCL. The milestone was achieved under a Health, Safety and Environment record, which stood at over 9.5 million man-hour with zero Loss Time Injury.

On April 7, 2021, the NNPC officially signed a contract with Tecnimont SPA for the $1.5bn rehabilitation program of the Port Harcourt Refining Company.

Parties in the agreement also announced the commencement of the project following the signing of the contract at the headquarters of the company in Abuja The rehabilitation project, being undertaken in three phases, is expected to be completed by 2025. But the first phase of the project, which is the mechanical completion phase, was done by the NNPC on Thursday.

The new Port Harcourt refinery comprises a Crude Distillation Unit (CDU), a Vacuum Distillation Unit (VDU), a Naphtha Hydrotreating Unit (NHTU), a Catalytic Reforming Unit (CRU), a Continuous Catalyst Regeneration (CCR) Unit, a kerosene hydrotreating unit, a fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) unit, and a dimersol unit to convert propylene into a gasoline blendstock.

It also houses a butamer isomerisation unit, an alkylation unit, apart from hydrogen purification, fuel gas vaporiser, sour water, and caustic treatment units.

The old refinery comprises a CDU, a CRU, and a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) facility.

The refinery complex uses four turbo-generators of 14MW an hour of electricity generation capacity each and four boilers of 120 tonnes (t) an hour of steam generation capacity each. The refinery products include petrol, diesel, LPG, aviation and domestic kerosene, low pour fuel oil (LPFO), and heavy pour fuel oil (HPFO) Last year September, the then Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, said the country’s biggest crude refinery in Port Harcourt would restart operation in December after it had completed a revamp that began over a year ago. But that the timelines were unmet.

Again, in January 2023, Sylva assured that part of the refinery would be completed by the year’s first quarter, but the government again failed to meet its target.

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobirii had in August this year assured that the Port Harcourt refinery will become functional by December while Warri and

Kyari Kaduna will be ready by the end of next year.

But after many years of painstaking efforts to refine petroluem products in Nigeria, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd finally fulfilled its promise to Nigerians to complete the Rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt Refinery. With the completion of the project, the refining of Petroleum products is expected to commence immediately after the Christmas break.

Lokpobiri, revealed this during the 15th Refineries Rehabilitation Steering Committee Meeting held in Port Harcourt.

The meeting was attended by the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Mallam Mele Kyari; NNPC Limited’s Executive Vice President, Upstream, Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan; and the NNPC Board Chairman Chief Pius Akinyelure.

The Minister said bringing back the refineries to their optimal levels is a national aspiration, and the government remains focused on delivering that.

The facility would start refining 60,000 barrels of crude oil after the Christmas break. About 170 liters of refined petroleum products can be obtained from a barrel of crude oil. This implies that the 60,000bpd production from the Port Harcourt refinery can provide an estimated 10.2 million liters of Premium Motor Spirit, popularly called petrol and other refined products.

The government also stated that the importation of Liquefied Petroleum Gas, popularly called cooking gas, would reduce after the Christmas break, as the refinery starts pumping out refined products.

He said, “The meeting today coincides with the commencement of operations at the Port Harcourt refinery. This is to announce to Nigerians that in fulfilment of our pledge in completing phase one of the Port Harcourt refinery by the end of 2023, and the subsequent streaming of phase two in 2024, we happily announce the mechanical completion of flare start-up on December 20, 2023.

“This heralds the commencement in the production of petroleum products after the Christmas

break. We want to thank Nigerians for their patience and trust in the NNPC to deliver on our promise and mandate in the rehabilitation of our refineries.”

Lokpobiri noted that with the completion of the first phase of the refinery, the remaining refineries in Warri and Kaduna would follow.

“The mechanical part of the plant is completed and this is the beginning of not just the Port Harcourt refinery phases one and two, but the one for Warri and then the one in Kaduna, so that we will be able to benefit from this massive investment that the country has made,” the minister stated.

On his part, the Minister of State Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, said the PHRC would produce cooking gas, adding that this would lead to a reduction in the importation of the commodity.

He added, “In August when we came here, we were told that by December, this plant will come on stream, and today we have witnessed that. So I’m really impressed.

“And it is good news equally to LPG (cooking gas) users that as the refinery begins after Christmas, we will have sufficient supply of LPG, which will automatically reduce the imports at that level. So it is something to celebrate.“With the coming up onstream of this phase one, others will follow as well because the NNPC has fulfilled the first assignment, and I believe others will be completed on schedule.”

The Group Chief Executive Officer, NNPCL, Mele Kyari, explained that as of December 15, 2023, about 84.4 per cent of Area-5 Plant, a key component of the Port Harcourt refinery, and 77.4 per cent of the entire rehabilitation project had been completed.

He added, “This is just to announce to Nigerians that in fulfilment pf our pledge to bring on stream phase 1 of the PH refinery by the end of 2023 and the subsequent streaming of phase 2 in 2024, we heartily announce the mechanical completion and flare up of the refinery on the 20th of December 2023. This heralds the commencement of production of petroleum “We want to thank Nigerians for their patience and trust in the NNPC to deliver on our promise and mandate for the rehabilitation of our refineries.

“In our quest to ensure that this refinery is restreamed to continue to deliver value to Nigerians, we made a promise that we will reach a mechanical completion of phase one of the rehabilitation project by the end of December and get the other plants running in 2024. Today, we have kept those commitments,” Kyari stated.

The GCEO commended the NNPCL’s staff and the EPCIC contractors for ensuring that the refinery achieved a significant milestone, adding that the second phase would be completed in the fourth quarter of 2024.

“We are done with phase one. We will complete phase two as promised within 2024, maximum – the last quarter of 2024,” he stated.

In his remarks, the Chairman, NNPCL Board, Chief Pius Akinyelure, described the milestone as historic, stressing that the board was proud of the staff and management of the refinery.

“We are just starting. We want to be at the highest level of production so that we will keep the prices of petroleum prices in the country stable in order to give comfort to our people and generate more revenue for our country,” Akinyelure noted.

The Managing Director, Port Harcourt Refining Company Limited, Ibrahim Onoja, said the facility was thoroughly rehabilitated to last the country for many decades.

“This plant you see is a renewed plant that will last Nigeria for decades. We can beat our chest and say we’ve come over 50 years and we’ll go another 50 years.

“This will give value to Nigeria, create jobs, provide feedstock for industries, revenue, foreign exchange, energy security, and more. Phase one of this refinery is 60,000 barrels per day, and the other one is 150,000bpd. So we have a complementary 210,000bpd refinery,” he stated.

Onuba, a chartered accountant, wrote in from Abuja.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾DECEMBER 24, 2023

28

FEATURES

FCT, Revenue Drive and Political Will The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) is revving up the drive to maximise internally generated revenue (IGR) portfolio in the nation’s capital with the emergence of Nyesom Wike as minister who has provided the political will, while the revenue agency (FCT-IRS) embraces cuttingedge measures to boost revenue haul. Ndubuisi Francis examines the salient issues

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buja, Nigeria’s capital city is reputed to be not just one of the fastest growing capital cities in Africa but one of the fastest in the world.

With an estimated population of over 3.8 million people, the demands of playing host the nation’s capital city are enormous just as the potential are vast.

For the FCTA, harnessing the huge potential calls for a delicate balance between meeting its responsibilities of ensuring the well-being of the teeming residents and getting the latter to fulfill their civic obligations without unnecessarily making the burden heavy.

The city is confronted by sundry challenges ranging from lack of portable water system, countless abandoned projects, unlit streets, deplorable roads in the satellite towns and villages, perennial flooding and poor transportation system to deteriorating security, among others.

While huge financial resources are needed to address these challenges, previous administrations in the FCT, particularly in the last eight years did not help the situation.

However, the appointment of Nyesom Wike, a former governor of Rivers State has increasingly rekindled hope that the narrative might change.

The Revenue Challenge

No doubt, revenue challenge is real and until recently posed one of the most daunting challenges in the FCT. It has not only torpedoed the completion of several projects, but denied Abuja residents the benefit of enjoying good social amenities. Under the current dispensation, the FCTA appears to be giving practical expression to efforts aimed at addressing paucity of funds.

In a recent interview, the Executive Chairman of the Federal Capital Territory-Inland Revenue Service (FCT-IRS), Haruna Abdullahi said the revenue agency which is the youngest member of the nation’s Joint Tax Board (having commenced operations in 2018), currently collects an average of N145 billion internally generated revenue (IGR) annually, up from a paltry N40 billion per annum previously.

Abdullahi believes that with the new twist, in addition to the expected 50 to 60 per cent revenue rise, the nation’s capital has set a target of generating N300 billion annually, which will put it in a comfortable position to fully fund its budget from IGR sources. According to him, the FCT has taken steps to increase IGR by making it easier for people to file their taxes and meet their obligations. These steps include launching a self-service portal and improving the efficiency of the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) and the Government Integrated Financial Management System (GIFMIS).

The FCT has also implemented new measures to collect taxes from businesses that operate in Abuja. These measures include ensuring that withholding tax deductions are sent to the FCT-IRS and that businesses that do business in Abuja register for and pay their taxes in the FCT. However, for residents to fully enjoy certain services they enjoyed in the past and which the improved revenue drive in the city will offer them henceforth, the FCT-IRS is making it mandatory for them to produce their tax clearance certificates (TCCs).

Wike

The Political Will

According to Abdullahi, institutions like FCT-IRS which focus on revenue are confronted by several significant challenges “And revenue issues are political issues, you which need the political support, the political will to overcome a lot of these challenges. And that’s why I mentioned the fact that the honourable minister now is supporting the Service politically. And that has really lessened the burden.

“So, all stakeholders, I believe now in the city see that the political will is there.

And even internal stakeholders, our colleagues and all have seen that, look: this is the direction of the bureaucracy of the administration. And certainly you would not joke with it.”

With Wike demonstrating the muchneeded political will, and now showing that revenue issues are in the forefront for him, Abdullahi believes the FCT-FIRS is better placed in its revenue drive mandate.

Optimising the Revenue Drive

One of the major moves made by Wike immediately after his appointment was to seek and get presidential exemption of the FCT from the Treasury Single Account (TSA) web. The minister himself had explained that being tied to the TSA bottleneck would have been antithetical to the pace with which he wants things to be done expeditiously.

Less than a month ago, the minister approved the draft proposal on property tax regulation, designed to significantly boost IGR in the nation’s capital.

According to the FCT-IRS boss, following

the ministerial approval, an inter-agency stakeholder committee had been constituted to finetune the draft regulation after which it would be returned to the minister to sign into law and subsequently gazetted.

Abdullahi, who applauded Wike’s determination to turn around the fortunes of the FCT, noted that the Service had also inaugurated a committee for the full implementation of the Capital Gains Tax (CGT) law in the FCT. A CGT is 10 per cent is derived from the disposal of capital assets, including stocks, bonds, and real estate, among others. It is tax from the sale of any capital asset where the sale price exceeds the purchase price of the investment.

Abdullahi stated that previously, there was very little compliance in terms of CGT, adding that having briefed the minister and an inter-agency collaboration in place, the FCT-IRS would now begin to implement the capital gains tax fully.

The FCT-IRS Executive Chairman is upbeat that with the Property Tax law in the offing, CGT already on the verge of full implementation of Section 85 of Personal Income Tax Act (PITA) and Section 31 of the FCT Internal Revenue Service Act, 2015 fully implemented, the revenue profile of the FCT “should take us to certainly above 50 to 60 percent of what we are doing at the moment, and that is a huge positive impact on the bottomline.”

For him, the FCT is committed to optimising its IGR and believes that with political will fully guaranteed, it can achieve its goal of fully funding its budget from IGR. However, while the quest to maximise

revenue generation takes pre-eminence, improving the ease of doing business in the FCT is imperative, so is infrastructure development and other necessities. Despite in terms of ease of doing business, the FCT’s scorecard from the Presidential Enabling Business Environment (PEBEC) is not inspiring.

“The FCT is not performing as well as it should be. We have been working on harmonisation issues over the last few months and have signed an MoU between FCT-IRS, FCTA, and the six area councils to harmonise our taxes.

“However, tax collections between area councils, states, and federal are a constitutional issue, and there are overlaps.

Through harmonisation and collaboration with revenue-generating agencies in the FCTA, we hope to make living in Abuja easier and improve the federal capital’s ranking in ease of doing business.

“Local councils are entitled to 10 per cent of IGR, and we have clarified with the area councils that FCT is remitting these funds. We hope to harmonise kiosk and business premise taxes and make it easier to do business all over the city. Inter-agency collaboration is now taking place amongst revenue-generating agencies driven by the FCT-IRS, and we work together and support each other for the common goal of improving revenues.

“Our hope is that the next ease of doing business report will reflect an FCT that has bettered itself,” he said.

While the FCT-IRS, headed by a suave and purposeful Chairman is deploying cuttingedge measures to boost IGR, residents of Abuja are waiting to witness a new lease of life in the area of infrastructure development, especially in the satellite towns and suburbs as well as reprieve from mounting challenges worsened by a wobbly economy.

Residents of the Nyanya-Mararaba axis of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) will want to heave a sigh of relief if the ApoKarshi is completed to ease the heavy traffic on that axis The 13.25-kilometre road, first awarded in 2011 has suffered inexplicable delay.

Also, the imperative of an effective, efficient and seamless mass transit system for a modern federal capital city cannot be over-emphasiSed. Well lit roads and streets, communities that are free of street urchins and anti-social elements is befitting of the Nigeria’s federal capital.

Residents of several communities in the FCT are troubled by insecurity, including the operations of criminals commonly known as ‘one chance’ operators.

While the revenue agency is striving to increase the revenue haul in the FCT, the minister and the FCTA as a whole should provide the necessary relief to the residents from the multifaceted challenges facing them.

The political leaders and others running the affairs of the FCT must remember that generating revenue is important, but there must be a judicious application of the funds so realised. Urgently fixing the problems confronting the FCT, especially the most pressing ones is the way to go.

They should ruminate over the words of Chester A. Arthur: “The extravagant expenditure of public money is an evil not to be measured by the value of that money to the people who are taxed for it.”

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾DECEMBER 23, 2023

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FEATURE

Laurels Galore for UBA Charles Ajunwa writes that the recent awards clinched by the United Bank for Africa at the Bankers Awards 2023 was made possible due to years of hard work and due diligence

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he Chairman of the United Bank for Africa UBA, Heirs Holdings and Tony Elumelu Foundation, Mr. Tony Elumelu, is one of the most sought after bankers whose business model has continued to win him respect and recognitions from notable organisations and leaders across the globe.

The solid foundation he left behind at UBA, has been yielding positive results over the years. This was made possible due to the hard work and resilience of the management and staff of the revered Africa’s global bank.

Eumelu has the Army’s Recognition Award, Excellence Award from ECOWAS, CFR National Honour, TIME 100 Impact Award, and many other awards are in his kitty.

For the secret of his outstanding success, Elumelu revealed that luck brought him where he is today.

However, he was quick to add that “luck is important but that doesn’t make it a substitute for hard work or labour.”

“Hard work and passion are the two most important ingredients for luck.

“I am where I am today because of luck. Let me be clear, luck is important, but it is not a substitute for hard work or labour. Luck is part of the cocktail that you need for success.

“There are two ingredients for luck – hard work and passion. The more work you put into something and the more passion you apply, the ‘luckier’ you find yourself.

“You have to work hard and be more passionate and committed about what you do, to be successful and make your own luck.

Elumelu “Hard work and passion are within your power and control, and you should apply them to earn your own in Africa, as it had emerged winner in 2021. luck and to help us foster a better and more prosperous UBA’s Group Managing Director, Oliver Alawuba, world.” who received the awards on behalf of the bank, Industry watchers were not taken aback when the expressed his gratitude and excitement about the UBA last month set a fabulous record in far away Lonawards, and said the recognitions came as a reassurdon.

The bank won nine prestigious awards at The Bank- ance that the bank is on track in its goal of consolidating its leadership position in Africa, and creating ers Awards 2023, organised by The Banker Magazine superior value for its stakeholders.

- a publication of Financial Times of London, the Alawuba said: “UBA is honoured to be named the world’s leading business newspaper.

Bank of the Year in these eight countries and to reUBA, at the event which attracted who-is-who in the ceive the overall Award for Africa. This accomplishfinancial and banking sector, was presented with the ment is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and prestigious Bank of the Year Africa 2023, and it also emerged victorious as the Bank of the Year in eight of innovative spirit of the entire UBA team. We remain committed to delivering top-notch banking services the 20 countries where it operates in Africa. Namely: that positively impact the lives of our customers UBA Cameroon, UBA Chad, UBA Ghana, UBA Cote d’Ivoire, UBA Mozambique, UBA Republic of Congo, across the continent.

“We have our millions of customers across the UBA Sierra Leone, and UBA Tanzania. This feat globe and our many thousands of staff to thank for underscores the bank’s dominance and impact across this. They are the very reason why we keep winning diverse African markets. It is noteworthy that this and receiving these accolades.” would be the second time in the past three years that The Banker Awards is widely recognised as a the Bank has won the regional award as the Best Bank

benchmark for banking excellence globally, and UBA’s multiple victories underscore the institution’s commitment to providing exceptional financial services and superior financial intermediation on the continent. As Africa’s Bank of the Year, UBA has demonstrated its ability to navigate the complexities of the African banking landscape and emerge as a leading force in driving economic growth and financial inclusion.

Editor of the Banker, Joy Macknight, said that as always, UBA remains a clear winner across a wide range of criteria, having performed impressively across its footprint with a strong financial performance across most of its markets.

Macknight, who spoke earlier about UBA’s consistent excellence in the financial services sector across the continent, said the bank’s model has earned it great accolades overtime.

“In a year of strong competition among the continent’s major banking groups, UBA has gained the edge on its rivals to win the Bank of the Year award for Africa for the 2nd time in three years. Congratulations. The award recognises the bank’s strength across Africa, including many of its most competitive markets,” Macknight stated.

Since 1926, the Bank of the Year Awards has been celebrating the best of global banking and is regarded as the industry standard for banking excellence.

Just recently, UBA won the 2023 FMDQ Gold Awards in three Categories including the Best FX Liquidity Provider, Dealing Institution of the Year and Best Money Market Liquidity Provider. This recognition is a testament to UBA’s impressive capital strength and capacity to provide liquidity to the Nigerian financial market even in the face of harsh economic realities. Despite the headwinds, UBA Group has consistently maintained its position as Nigeria’s leading financial institution.

The banking group also in June announced impressive half-year financial results, and further increased the performance in Quarter 3, 2023, with profit before tax (PBT) soared to N502.01 billion, Shareholders’ Funds standing strong at N1.778 trillion, and total assets, reaching N16.24 trillion.

These outstanding figures not only reflect UBA’s institutional strength, but also demonstrate its position as a corporate role model in Nigeria and across Africa.

To its credit, UBA today is a leading Pan-African financial institution, offering banking services to more than 35 million customers, across 1,000 business offices and customer touch points in 20 African countries. With presence in New York, London, Paris, and Dubai, UBA is connecting people and businesses across Africa through retail, commercial and corporate banking, innovative cross-border payments and remittances, trade finance and ancillary banking services.

From Lagos to London, Olaniran’s Eyo Photographs Take Centre Stage Adedayo Adejobi x-rays the recent work of Ademola Olaniran, who currently serves as Senior Special Assistant Media and Visual Communications to the Governor of Lagos, at the London Mayor’s Show

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demola Olaniran’s striking photograph of the Eyo Masquerades frozen in gyration at the Lord Mayor’s show in London on November 12, 2023, reached far beyond words or a cultural display, to creating a masterpiece that leaves a mystical imprint on the soul and presents an opportunity for conversations, soul-searching questions, and encouraging reflections.

To stare at it is to be teleported to the 17th century, an era associated with the origins of the Eyo Festival in Lagos State, Nigeria, where costumed dancers representing the spirits of ancestors would perform a dance ritual to the rhythmic sound of drums as they sought to usher in a new king or honour an esteemed guest.

For Ademola Olaniran, arguably one of Nigeria’s finest fine-art photographers, creating art through photography goes beyond happenstance. Instead, it is a premeditated composition of a subject within the limitations of time, surrounded by life as it occurs before a camera’s shutter is released. It is one of anticipation, where visual elements of positioning, colour, light, and shape collaborate with artistry and technicality to capture an unguarded moment that would otherwise have been hard to describe.

Click, and a magical moment that would outlive generations is frozen in time—each frame is a celebration of life’s unguarded moments. It is the unposed, unplanned, sheer serendipity that Ademola chases—a laugh mid-flight, the blur of a racing car, the swirl of a dress. His adoption of the 35mm camera is revolution-

ary, akin to a writer discovering the pen after years of the quill.

When asked about his raison d’être on his artistic journey, Ademola, who is set to exhibit a new collection in a few months, responds, “I have made it a goal to be intentional and ensure that every image I capture is not just a creation of art but one laden with a strong story, because I feel that allows me to convey a message in a very unique yet powerful way. Fine art photography allows me to come up with ideas for images that are a lot more conceptual, where the end result is more of a catalyst for a larger discussion about various topics”.

And this brings us back to the photograph of the Eyo performance at the Museum of London which has received accolades from both the Governor of Lagos, Babajide SanwoOlu, and The Lord Mayor of London, Michael Mainelli; thus transcending a cultural display of the enigmatic, fast-paced, and beautiful Lagos and placing the city at the centre of global conversations about Africa’s role in the 21st century. It is a statement of identity, resilience, and the transformative power of culture steeped in the art that Lagos so richly embodies. This all-important narrative is crucial in changing global perceptions and showcasing Nigeria’s and Africa’s potential and achievements in various fields, as championed by cities like Lagos.

A picture may be worth a thousand words. Still, a camera in the hands of a seasoned storyteller like Ademola Olaniran, is an extension of his vision, enabling the seizing of the ephemeral with a candidness that translates into a mosaic of moments that together sing an ode to a period witnessed. And this, for any discerning mind, is worth more than a thousand words!

Olaniran

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 23, 2023

PEOPLE Akpevwe Ogboru: Challenges Encountered Travelling Across 12 African Countries on Bike Frustrating Superintendent of Customs, Akpevwe Ogboru, who recently travelled across 12 countries in Africa on bike, covering an impressive distance of over 8,000 kilometers, speaks to Ferdinand Ekechukwu on the experience, encounters, and discoveries of her historic tour of the region

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hy did you embark on such trip; is it adventure or what?

It was a tour. I have always loved travelling and I feel that the only way we would able to appreciate life and appreciate the beauty of God’s creation is to travel and see how other people live. I know a lot of people have asked me questions like how did you get fuel to buy? And I’m like these are countries, not villages. They have fuel stations and all that. So, it’s like a lot of Nigerians feel like we are the only ones that have fuel and all that stuff.

According to reports, you travelled for 23 days, covering 8,000 kilometers since November 10, when you left Abuja, can you confirm this?

Total number of 23 days, total number of countries 12, starting from Abuja Nigeria, travelling through Benin, Togo, Ghana, Coted’Ivoire, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea Conakry, Senegal, Mali, Burkina Faso, Togo, Benin, Nigeria. I did not leave Abuja November 10th. I crossed Seme border on November 10th. Total number of kilometres covered 8, 205.2km.

Can you share your routine as you travelled through the 12 countries?

My routine basically is when I arrive at the country I look for a hotel that I’m going to spend the night. Some countries, some people that I know will help me to get hotel.

Then I sleep and prepare for the next day.

I talk to my people at home and let them know about my day and trip. The next day I continue.

What was the motivation beyond your love for travelling?

I have always loved travelling. And I have told myself that any opportunity I have public holiday, weekends, any opportunity I have - I would maximise it. Because I just realised that a lot of us in Nigeria just work, work, work, and before you know it you have worked for 60 years and you are going on retirement and you have not really done anything. At least people should try this work-life balance. So you work, and then you play. And then you work, and you play. It

Ogboru

makes life easier. You can’t just be working till death. So, like I said, I have always loved travelling and when I collected my annual leave, I just decided that ‘you know what?

Just do this’.

How would you describe the experience travelling through these countries?

It was wholesome. Yeah. I just think like I said (elsewhere) we operate almost the same way; the same behavior, just anything you think about that is happening in Nigeria, is the same thing in all those places. The difference is the language in some of the places. For instance, they may be speaking French, while we speak English; they also have their own local language. But bad behavior, good behaviour, everything is the same.

How interconnected are the borders of these countries?

As Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), I expected that the borders are supposed to be connected.

I’m not even supposed to be stamping my passport. If I can show my passport or ID card that I’m from Nigeria, I’m supposed to just move in. But they stamped my passport.

Okay no problem with that, but you have to pay money and if you are not paying, they would delay you.

That appears to be some form of challenge?

It was a big challenge. I am from Nigeria, and from an ECOWAS member-country. If you stamp my passport, I shouldn’t be delayed any further. But not to be asked questions and asked to drop money for stamp. If it’s a virgin passport you have to bring money.

But you didn’t encounter this in all the countries?

I don’t just want to call names. But most of the countries I passed through.

How about challenges in terms of security, the roads, weather?

Before I went on this trip I had ridden across all 36 states in Nigeria, this helped me prepare for the long trip. So there were some roads I travelled through and I’m like ‘this is Abia State’, you understand. The roads were not really strange. Except for the distances which where longer considering that it was major roads.

So thank God I did that before this.

So it didn’t make it look too difficult.

Basically, none of the challenges, experiences were strange.

What do you intend to impact with the exposure and experience traveling these countries?

That should be that ECOWAS we need to do better. We need to do better in terms of promoting tourism.

ECOWAS member states we need to encourage people to travel within the region to do business. Like somebody called me that “I would like to come and invest in your country.” Please what do you think I can do? He’s been talking about it and if they are going to be having such bottlenecks and soft threat, people would not want to travel. I think ECOWAS should make it open for ECOWAS members to be able to travel around and they can startup businesses you know. It will help. And we have a lot of beautiful places in West Africa that people could visit instead of spending money travelling to Europe and the rest.

Is it something you would want to embark upon again in the future?

Yes, I want to embark upon it in the future but minus the stress at the borders. If I get to a border and I give you my passport, you stamp it and I

walk away. What I expect from you is ‘welcome to my country. I hope you have a good time. These are places I want you to visit’.

That’s what the immigration is supposed to be saying to you at the border not paying for stamp. They are supposed to be selling their countries such that even if I did not know where to go, it’s them that are supposed to tell me where to go. That’s what I think.

What do you have to say to other women who may wish to embark on such journey like this; Is it something you would encourage them to do?

I want to encourage women: If there’s something you want to do that is not sin against God, you are not disobeying the state, you are not disobeying any authority, you are not doing anything that is going to put anybody in danger, please go ahead and do it. Because the truth is that they always tell women ‘no you can’t do it you are a woman’.

But at the end of the day, we women will wait.

And then we wait for husband the husband comes, and then when you now get married you now realise that there are many things that I should have been able to do in life, but now with this partner, you can’t even do it.

And these are things I think bring resentment.

Talking about marriage, can you talk about your family, background?

No, I’m not married. I wouldn’t want to talk about family, background. No. I have not even completed the trip. The trip is supposed to end in Abuja, but I’m in Lagos. So, I’m still going to continue to Abuja on Friday (December 8).

From your experience through this journey are there recommendations regarding joint border patrol you would want to make having travelled through these countries which are within the same region of the continent?

Yes, I have recommendations but for now I wouldn’t want to talk about it.

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2023 • T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R

Caroline Wura-ola Adepoju:

Posting Officers with Influence of Outsiders Major Challenge

Continued on page 32

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T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R • SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2023

PLUS

Posting Officers with Influence of Outsiders Major Challenge She wears a permanent smile and punctuates every interaction with different notes of laughter. Like a witness of truth, Caroline Wura-ola Adepoju, the Comptroller General of Nigeria Immigration Service needs no prodding for responses to show that she has nothing to hide. This accidental Nigeria Immigration boss is a tomboy who still prefers her jeans and trousers and never aimed to lead the service which providence thrusted on her. She spoke with Ahamefula Ogbu on her early life, career, family and plans for the service among others. Excerpts What motivated you to join immigration or any uniform service in life?

I must be honest with you, I actually knew very little about immigration when I joined, the only thing that I knew about uniform job was with the military, the police and the customs. My father was a customs officer so it is not as if I set out to work as a uniformed officer but fate brought me here, this is providence. I was guided by the hands of God; actually through my Dad and my uncle both of whom were Customs officers, they introduced me into Nigerian Immigration service and I was brought into this service by Mr. Damlak, he was the Director of Immigration because this new title was not being used that time, they used to refer to the head of immigration that time as a Director, so actually it was providence, I must be honest with you.

What was your ambition on joining immigration?

My aim, everything I do in life is from service point of view, I just want to be my best wherever I find myself, I just want to offer my best at every point in time. I did not know that it was possible, I didn’t set out targeting the top, I just wanted to be my best at every point in time, whatever job I was assigned, I wanted to be my best. I didn’t plan that one day I will be Comptroller General really but at any point in my life, any duty I was assigned, I wanted to do it to the best of my ability; that was it.

Can you tell us about your early life, where did you grow up?

I was born in Ile Oluji but I grew up knowing myself actually in Ibadan. Both of my parents were teachers at one time or the other but my father left the teaching line and went to study Law from the University of Ife and became a lawyer. His first job as a lawyer was with the Board of Customs and Excise, that is what they used to call it in those days and I think I knew myself at the age of three living in Ibadan with my siblings and my mom. My father was not always at home; he was living in Lagos when we were in Ibadan.

I am the second of four children from my mom, I have other loving siblings from my father. My father had other wives but we are all one big family but I am the second of the four children from my mom, my mother being the first wife of my father so I didn’t start school in Ibadan, I started school in Lagos, Salvation Army Primary School, Freeman Street in Ebute Metta. My mom was my first teacher, she taught me in primary one but in 1972, my Dad was transferred from Lagos to Port Harcourt and he said he would want me to live with his mom; he just completed his new building in Ile Oluji, a big building then and it was just his mom and my cousin living there, he said no, that the house was too big for just two people that I should also come and live with his mom just to keep her company, that was when I came to Ile Oluji and I changed my school then from Salvation Army to St. Peters Anglican Primary school in Ile Oluji. So I had memorable childhood but I love my experience in Lagos more than my experience in Ile Oluji because I was living with my parents and when I came to Ile Oluji it took me some time to adjust to the community.

I was happiest when I was living with my parents.

In Ile Oluji, I was happy too because I was one of the best pupil in the primary school. I completed my primary school in Ile Oluji. I conveniently led my class.

Throughout my stay in primary school, I was ever first so when I got to primary six I was made the head girl, it made me happy and very special.

I grew up in a polygamous home; like is typical with every polygamous home, our mother could have frictions but never with us kids, my father tried and made sure that he united us, all the children, we were like one big family even though occasionally the normal rancor between co-wives will come up but it never affected us the children; Daddy tried very hard to make sure that we were one so it was good. From St Peters I proceeded to Christ School, Ado Ekiti and it was nice, a mixed school, that is a co-educational school, boys and girls and we were happy. Our teachers worked very hard on us, they cultured us morally and in terms of education, our teachers worked very hard. My first Principal was Chief Rufus Fasoranti, the now Afenifere Leader, he was like a father to all of us and we had other good and dedicated teachers like late Okeya, Mrs. Patience Adamolekun. Okeya was from Emure Ekiti and Mrs. Adamolekun is from Iju, that is in Ondo State and many other teachers; they were devoted, they taught us and we had very good teachers in the sciences, most of them were Indians, Mrs. Jacobs, so many other people, Mrs. Ayodele, they worked very hard on us. My favourite part of school was the time we use to spend in the assembly, singing, I love to sing. I told you I was ever first in primary school, when I got to Christ School, they flung me back, very brilliant scholars, people like Dele Jegede, an engineer now, Nike Shamo who is late, many other people. I remember my very good classmate, Kayode Fayemi, Ambassador Eniola Ajayi, Dr. Ayodele Teriba, many of them like that doing very well. Christ School produced great alumni like the present Minister of Mines that is Dele Alake. It trained many prominent

Wura-ola Adepoju with family members sons of Ekiti like Bolaji Akinyemi is from Christ school, Kofo Osunloye, now Mrs. Olaosebikan, some my seniors, some my mates and I was very happy at school.

Between your parents and your grandma, who inculcated the values you espouse?

My parents. My Mom like I told you, she is alive but she was a teacher in her days and she was very strict, a God-fearing woman, a strict disciplinarian that was raised by the Roman Catholic Church. She used to pride herself as going through all the convents in Ondo State, St Luis here both in Ondo and in Owo, a trained teacher. I was a bit rascally as a child but my mother did a lot of work on me; she used her cane, her words and by the grace of God like I said my teachers in those schools they tried.

They inculcated in us that if you know you are naughty, start pretending that you are good and eventually you will be good. I knew I was a bit naughty but I changed and I started…I know I used to be disrespectful of my seniors in school but our teachers said we should try and be our best and when parents and teachers make good efforts they are very productive. My Dad also you know started life as a teacher, he was a disciplinarian too but not as tough as mummy.

What indelible experience in discipline will you not forget in a hurry?

The words will never leave my mind in a hurry, my mother taught us many things, she taught us that if you are speaking in public among your friends and you are hearing your own voice alone, you must be cautious, that means you are talking too much, she taught us to be respectful to people.

Mom used to say when you are talking to elders there is a way you look at them that they will not feel as if you are disrespectful, mom tried. She used her cane and she used her words but I think her words were more impactful than the cane.

Between your mom and dad who were you closer to?

Of course Mummy; like I told you, daddy was a polygamist and had to go out to work a lot so we spent more time with our mom.

How did you meet your husband?

Interesting story. I met my husband in Ile Oluji, that’s one thing I really thank God for; I met my husband in Primary school at Ile Oluji. He told me one day that the first day I opened my moth to talk to him, he decided that he was going to marry me. I was in primary four and he was in primary five, so I met him right here but we didn’t

get close; well we grew up together as friends but he didn’t ask me to marry him until we finished university; we are distant relatives.

Did you people attend same University?

No. My husband attended University of Ife but my first Degree was in Maiduguri then my Master’s degree in Ibadan, so I’m a proud alumna of Maiduguri and Ibadan.

What does love mean to you?

Respect. To me I think respect is the best form and expression of love. You can be mad with them but you can still respect them; You can disagree with them but you will also know that they are not bad people, that you can look at life from different perspectives, respect is important to me in every relationship.

What determined the choice of your husband as I’m sure he wasn’t the only suitor?

I will confess to you that my father chose him for me. My father told me that if I marry an Adepoju, there is no way I will regret it. My father knew my husband’s parents, they were senior to my father.

Their father was a very respected person in the community, committed to his family and my father said his son was most likely going to be like his father. My father insisted that I marry him, not like giving me any option, he insisted, so I married him because my father wanted me to marry him and I am grateful because it is the best decision I have taken in life.

Were there other suitors or distractions?

Yes, oh naturally. Even in my secondary school, I had a friend that we were inseparable, everybody knew us together in school; of course we were good friends but nothing much to it. Like you will know a childhood, I don’t want to say sweetheart because my husband is now my sweetheart and ofcourse other people showed interest but my dad would not hear of any other person except this Adeleye Adepoju.

What experience do you think shaped your life generally?

My experience in marriage shaped my life. It was rough at the beginning of my marriage and I must tell you, my husband is three months younger than myself but I learnt to be submissive, to respect him and because I had no choice than to make the marriage work, I learnt a lot, to be prayerful, to be committed and to be submissive so all these things shaped who I am today.

How often did he make you cry?

Laughs for a while…I cannot remember but we had it rough initially and I told him it was a bit stressful for me and he told me to calm down. I told him that I might leave and he told me it was not safe for me to leave, that he loves me but all he wanted was for me to understand him. He used to reassure me that all he wanted was for me to understand him.

What do you consider the biggest trial in your marriage?

Laughs long again…The usual things, I understand that marriage can be challenging initially. I have to say all these so that it will encourage people especially when it relates to money because when you start out early in life you have to start from somewhere. It is usually rough like the usual things men do, he did all those but by the grace of God he is sure footed, he is committed so I give thanks to God. What do you consider your happiest moment in this marriage so far?

Every day since we got out of the woods, I’m always so happy. God blessed us with responsible obedient children, my husband loves them so much, I love them so much so every day since we got out of the woods my husband makes me feel so special so I thank God for that.

Is any of your children exhibiting the form of rascality you displayed growing up?

Funny enough I’m so grateful to God, none of them is manifesting that, my children are calm, all of them. I think there must have been something particularly… I don’t know what to call my childhood particularly because I use to like maybe I was very tomboyish because my mother had us, we would have been five, we lost one at birth remaining four and among the four, I was an only girl so I was a bit rascally and I think that was the only challenge.

My children are not like that, they are calm.

You are bestriding a big organisation, what are the challenges you have encountered managing Immigration?

First and foremost, I must say I have enjoyed the support of this government; My Minister, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji Ojo has been wonderful, a very innovative and exposed and patriotic Nigerian so he makes my work easy. Ever since he came on board he has brought in many reforms which makes my work easy. Most of the challenges we have is the posting, locating our officers, we get a lot of external Continued on page 20

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2023 • T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R

33

PLUS

Money Has Never Been Source of Temptation to Me

Wura-ola Adepoju with family members distractions, people disturb us saying post that person here post that person there. No, it shouldn’t be so, I work with them and I know their capabilities, I know their persons so that is the major distraction, posting officers with the influence of outsiders is the major challenge. I must say I enjoy the cooperation of my immediate staff, Deputies, they are quite understanding they are trying but external pressure is a major challenge.

So how are you handling that?

Well, we still have to listen to people but as much as possible, we get the round pegs in round holes irrespective of external influences. Sometimes when important people, people you cannot say no to make requests, sometimes they listen if you give them reasons but it is a major, major challenge here.

What of recruitment?

Since we have guidelines like you are coming in depending on the rank in terms of educational qualifications and physical appearance, because of the guidelines that are there, you can only talk to us if the person meets the requirements though the government too has an influence because every section has to be represented, it is not bad.

There was a time I learnt ministers insisted that their children should go on external postings, are you still facing that?

Any immigration officer usually from the rank of Assistant Superintendent can go abroad. There is nobody that is not qualified, the only thing is that a lot of things have to go in like the training, the exposure in terms of rank, like I have said if you are a senior officer you can go but we have to make sure we include every part of this country; it is a privileged posting with a lot of benefits so different parts of the country have to be represented and the character because they are few and are going to serve a large number of our diasporas so we have to choose people who have the right temperament, right know how and all those things have to come to play. I am not saying the minister; no minister disturbs us but it is a general demand from the public.

You once headed the accounts department of the service, were you ever tempted to put your hand in the till?

No, never. Personally I am a very religious person and a person of high moral value.

You don’t have to soil your hands. Never, I have never been tempted. You can talk to my subordinates who are close to me, the present head of the finance and accounts is a DCG, Mrs. Dora Amahian, you can put a call across to her, infact I am notorious for being a bit thrifty when it comes to management of government funds. Some people use to say the way you manage government funds but my minister says the way you manage public funds is not no man’s business, it is our business and it should not be as if we are looting the treasury or mismanaging government funds. Money has never been a source of temptation to me by the grace of God. I don’t get tempted by that.

Won’t such consideration affect the release of funds for programs of the service?

It can only help me to be prudent in the management of our funds. My minister is very knowledgeable of the financial activities of my agency, my books are always open. We need a lot of funds considering the job that needs to be done in protecting our borders. You know that the Nigeria Immigration service is the lead agency in border management and border security. We have 4048 kilometers of land border, 800 kilometers of coastal border, we need them to be properly managed, properly manned and we need a lot of funds, my Minister is aware. Apart from budgetary allocation,

we do sometimes require monetary intervention and the government under the Commander in Chief, Bola Ahmed Tinubu is aware and has seen the level of work the Nigeria immigration under my leadership is doing and they are committed to ensuring that they enable us to secure our borders.

What template do you have for the protection of the borders?

Every year we plan to recruit more personnel to have enough number to man the borders. We are looking at recruiting 4500 every year in terms of putting boots on ground; again we want to deploy technology. Nigeria has a contract with the Chinese government; the project is being executed by Huawei, we are deploying surveillance equipment in most of our border posts that will be relaying information to our command and control center in our headquarters.

Like I said, we are buying more vehicles for border patrol. We have about 12 forward operation bases where our border patrol personnel rest and we want to build more to cover every 40 kilometers and my minister is actually spearheading that so that we can have that achieved.

We need patrol boats for our coastal borders, we do have some but they are not suitable for the purpose. I think to finance and to maintain them due to the diesel they gulp is almost impossible for us to maintain, we are looking at manageable patrol boats that we can be using to patrol our coastal borders.

We have been talking about getting back our aircraft because the Nigerian immigration service used to have about two aircraft which had been ceded to the Nigeria Air force, now we are more ready to get new ones to be able to patrol our borders and do aerial surveillance. We want to purchase suitable drones, train our men and equip them. We are also going to train them in weapons handling; I have met the Chief of Defence Staff and I asked for assistance in training on weapons handling because we have suffered casualties in the hands of bad eggs; I want our men to be able to defend themselves effectively so we are doing more training and recruiting more men most of who we are deploying to the borders to ensure they are well secured but they need decent accommodation both for office and residential as well as patrol vehicles and arms too because of insurgency, banditry and terrorism.

What are your plans for in-country production of passport booklets?

We are looking at all that. The issue of passport is a complex thing and the authorities concerned are looking into that.

I learnt instead of using Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Company to print the booklets it is being outsourced while there are moves to award contract to build printing facility inside Immigration in Abuja…?

To the best of my knowledge the present technical partners that we have in terms of passport production and administration, the passport regime is more than production, there are a lot of technicalities and finances that are involved in passport regime, not just production. Our technical partners are doing very well, they are trying their best and I know that with time things will be better.

What plans do you have to check racketeering of passports?

Racketeering in terms of passport you see, that is why we have made passport application to be something that is online; we want to reduce human interface. Nigerians should be aware that they can apply for their passports online, pay online and book appointment online only for them to come into a passport office for their biometric capturing.

There is a device from February to enable passport applicants to be able to track their application processes. Sometimes we do query passport applications, applicants will know and will be able to answer such queries. We are reducing human interface by digitising applications and that will reduce racketeering. Actually it is not only in Nigeria Immigration officers that people patronise. People talk to people around passport offices, some of them are touts, the passport regime involves a lot so some people actually make a profession out of assisting people obtain a passport and they charge them and these people are not immigration officers.

But it is in connivance with immigration officers or how do they process it through your office?

Like I said, all these will change when we digitise our operations, when people are ready to use our online facilities to process passports.

Have you ever looked at the possibility of connivance of your partners in passport processing? An example is that it takes you and one DCG to vary capture date but touts ask for 25,000 for it and if you pay, they schedule you for capture All these things are possible but things will be better. I advise our compatriots not to be in a hurry and should check the validity of their passports, once it has less than six months validity you should apply, when you do that you will not be under pressure. When you are under pressure people will take advantage of you. We want our people to be aware that they should renew their passport early enough and then an average Nigerian who has the propensity of traveling should get their passport ready so that they will not be desperate, people capitalise on desperation to exploit. Graft is opportunistic, if you are not in a hurry they won’t exploit you.

Let’s look at this issue of extension of service.

Jere before you extended, Paradang also before him extended and you have extended yours. Is this not delaying the career development of the upcoming officers?

Well it is like no man is a judge in his own case so I would rather be silent on that.

We learnt that officers spend as much as a billion and another N500 million to extend the service, how much did you spend to extend yours?

Anybody that knows me will know that I have never made that kind of money, it is not true but to the best of my knowledge, anyway no man is a judge in his own case so I would be silent on that.

Have you had a near life experience?

Sure. There was a day when I was serving in Ibadan, I use to drive myself between Ibadan and Lagos. My husband and children they live in Lagos and I work in Ibadan so sometimes maybe I will go to Ibadan and return same day and sometimes I will spend some time there. I think it was on my 40th birthday, my husband bought me a Corolla and that time it was automatic and I started driving with gearstick so that fateful day was a Friday and I usually fast on Fridays, my father thought us so around six pm when I wanted to break my fast, I had this pawpaw in my car, I was hungry. I was eating the pawpaw and driving and apparently my hand touched the gear and moved it from drive to neutral so my vehicle stopped and behind me was an articulated vehicle coming at full speed, so I saw it coming and I looked at it and thought oh so this is how I will end and as God will have it, the man struggled with the trailer and managed to only brush the side of my car, the boot was damaged but nothing happened to me.

As soon as the trailer hit the vehicle I saw my head, my arms and legs were there and I had the opportunity to jump out of the vehicle and we got a towing van to move it; that was my closest shave with death.

What of your happiest moment in life?

There have been so many, you can imagine having my first child, when my children were getting married, two of my daughters are married, look at me, a Comptroller General of Nigeria Immigration Service, I have had many happy moments in life.

Assuming fashion police raids your wardrobe, what are likely going to see?

I am not into much fashion, I’m a simple person, I wear anything that is good on me but I like to wear jeans, I love to wear trousers and shirts, that’s my favourite wear.

Since you are a woman in a good position and looking young, how do you handle advances by men?

God forbid, nobody talks to me about that… nobody, nobody, nobody. Do you have two heads? Nobody does that to me. You can’t just look at me, I will feel insulted if anybody tries that, at this level? No. Are any of your children replacing you in immigration as you are leaving service in retirement?

Not at all, they are into other things, not immigration service.

Wura-ola Adepoju with family members

What mark would you like to leave behind when you finally leave service?

I want my officers to have an immigration Comptroller General that they can touch and relate freely with. I like to eat groundnut with my subordinates. If I am passing and I see them eating groundnut I want to dip my hand and eat with them. I want to leave human face to leadership. I want to be touched I want to be felt; I touch people a lot, I want them to see that I care for their welfare while still discharging my duties.

34

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 24, 2023

PERSONAL FINANCE with Omolabake Fasogbon... 08155131874

L-R: Council Member Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria (ICSAN), Marilyn Eze; Commissioner, Engineering and Performance Monitoring, Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Mr. Chidi Ike; Vice President, ICSAN ,Uto Ukpanah; President and Chairman Governing Council of ICSAN, Mrs Funmi Ekundayo and Commissioner, Legal, Licensing and Compliance, NERC, Dafe Akpeneye during a courtesy visit of ICSAN Governing Counil to NERC HQ in Abuja...recently

Tips to Survive Cash Crunch Omolabake Fasogbon

I

t is no longer news that there is scarcity of the naira in the country.

Incidentally, this unfortunate development is not new in Nigeria as the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) currency redesign policy earlier in March this year, made Nigerians go through a historic incident of cash shortage that spelt doom for the masses and the economy.

In addition to personal losses, Lagos-based Centre for the PromoWLRQ RI 3ULYDWH (QWHUSULVH &33( had submitted that the economy also suffered to the tune of N20 trillion.

Unfortunately, this malady has resurfaced, sadly at a period of festivities. Nigerians are back on queues in banking halls and ATM points, exploring available means to lay hand on physical cash to meet their needs this yuletide.

This off course does not exclude paying as much as 20 per cent of total withdrawal to point-of-sale (PoS) operators, who are the supposed ‘saviour ’ as long as the scarcity last.

Today, people are going as far as neighbouring states to purchase the naira for their daily activities. ([SHFWHG WR EH ZRUVW KLW E\ this situation are the poor and 60(V ZKR WKULYH RQ OLTXLGLW\ to cover day-to-day expenses.

They are already groaning. Many have started counting their losses triggered by sudden alterations to their financial plans.

On this, a financial analyst, Prof.

Godwin Oyedokun, expressed concern that scarcity of cash was becoming a reality that Nigerians have to accept.

“Going forward, Nigerians may have to experience cash drought periodically. This is why we must embrace digital payment system, adjust our lifestyle and stay prepared to avoid the shock”, he said.

Although digital payment has evolved, the place of cash cannot be displaced, just as President and &KLHI ([HFXWLYH 2IILFHU 'LHEROG Nixdorf, Octavio Marquez, submitted that, “Cash enables flexibility, choice and privacy throughout the commerce landscape.”

Not discrediting digital transactions, its imperfections have however forced many on the lowest rung of social ladder out of business and individuals frustrated, especially during previous experience of cash crunch in the country.

Talk of irregular network to facilitate payments through electronic cards or transfer that has made business men lose bulky sales; what about a student or individual that earn meagre, yet bears extra charge on every item purchased, in addition to bank charges.

Like Godwin, another financial expert, Dr. Titilayo )RZRNDQ HPSKDVLVHG WKH need for lifestyle adjustment.

She however assured that individuals and businesses alike could still win in this situation, by adopting the traditional measures below: 060(V VKRXOG SDWURQLVH microfinance institutions, specifically set up to deal with their category. ,QGLYLGXDOV VKRXOG UHYLHZ their expenses and prioritise what they must buy with cash over the use of transfers and cards. &RQVXPHUV LQ GLUH QHHG of a product and without cash or do not want to suffer exorbitant cash withdrawal charges may consider deferred payment option with sellers. /DUJH SXUFKDVHV FDQ EH negotiated on a discount basis to reduce cash payout. &RQVLGHU VXEVWLWXWHV WR consumption pattern that can accommodate available cash and adjust lifestyle to always go for what is needed as against what is wanted. &XW GRZQ H[FHVVHV DQG reduce wastage. These are within our control.

Likewise, Oyedokun said consumers may want to look at transferring huge amount to a local grocery store an advanced payment for items to be purchased over a month or thereabouts.

“This is wiser, safer and economical rather than buying in bits and incurring more transaction cost,” he said.

ICSAN Worried about Rising Exit of Businesses

T

he Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria (ICSAN) has expressed concern over the increasing number of businesses exiting the country in recent times.

It stated that the trend was harmful to Nigeria’s LQYHVWPHQW SURÀOH DV ZHOO DV WKH IHGHUDO JRYHUQment’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and revenue target.

Owing to this, the institute wants the government to stop playing lip service to Nigeria’s challenges

and set out for tangible actions that will be favorable to manufacturers and consumers alike.

6SHFLÀFDOO\ 3UHVLGHQW RI ,&6$1 )XQPL (NXQGD\R said government should start with restoring investor FRQÀGHQFH LQ WKH FRXQWU\ E\ PDNLQJ WKH EXVLQHVV environment more conducive for operators to thrive.

Stressing the importance of infrastructure, (NXQGD\R ZKR VSRNH DW D PHGLD SDUOH\ LQ /DJRV DVVHUWHG WKDW JRYHUQPHQW PXVW IXOÀOO LWV SURPLVH by pulling savings from fuel subsidy into public infrastructure that would serve investors and bring relief to citizens.

Mediacraft Shines at Business Leadership Awards 3XEOLF 5HODWLRQV &RQVXOWDQF\ ÀUP 0HGLDFUDIW Associates has bagged the ‘PR/Media Agency of The Year Award’ at the Nigerian Business Leadership Awards (NBLA) held in Lagos, recently.

The agency was recognised for its impactful consulting services in the last two decades as well as its status as the largest consultancy ÀUP E\ VL]H The NBLA recognises exceptional business leaders and organisations that have contributed

VLJQLÀFDQWO\ WR WKH 1LJHULDQ HFRQRP\ 6SHDNLQJ RUJDQLVHUV RI 1%/$ )UDQN $LJERJXQ UHLWHUDWHG WKH VLJQLÀFDQFH RI WKH award to promoting excellence and impact.

“The NBLA honors private sector leaders ZKR KDYH PDGH VLJQLÀFDQW FRQWULEXWLRQV WR the Nigerian economy, shaping it through homegrown innovation, visionary capacity, and nationalism, thereby enhancing Nigeria’s standing in global competitiveness rankings”, he said.

Bigi Rewards Promo Winner with Car Carbonated soft drink brand, Bigi has fulfilled its promise to the winner of its ‘Watch and Win’ campaign.

The winner, Mrs. Nwudu Millicent, was presented a brand new car at a grand ceremony held in Lagos, recently. Millicent emerged winner from other 100 consumers who competed tightly for the car in a raffle draw exercise that took place at Silverbird Galleria in Victoria Island.

She would become the fourth person to have won a car in the campaign that kicked off in 2021.

Speaking, the Assistant Brand Manager for

Bigi, Ms. Biola Aransiola stated that the brand was committed to spreading happiness and bringing dreams to reality.

“With this win, we take our lucky consumer from the hustle and bustle of public transportation to the comfort and convenience of their own car,” she added.

Also commenting, the Media and Insights 0DQDJHU DW 5LWH )RRGV 0U $MLEDGH $GHGRWXQ said the promo was in collaboration with Silverbird Cinemas and further testified to the brand’s unwavering commitment to fans.

House on the Rock’s ‘Project Spread’ Empowers Needy No fewer than 500,000 families in Lagos VWDWH KDYH EHQHÀWHG IURP WKH +RXVH RQ the Rock’s ‘Project Spread’ initiative which launched out over a decade ago.

The initiative was envisioned as a gesture of goodwill to uplift vulnerable families during the festive season through the donation of food and household items, amongst others to underserved communities in Lagos.

This year, this projected held in two different Lagos communities, with no fewer WKDQ SHUVRQV DV EHQHÀFLDULHV 6SHDNLQJ WKH FR 3DVWRU +RXVH RQ WKH Rock, Ifeanyi Adefarasin, stated that the project represented a beacon of hope aimed to unite communities in joy and solidarity.

She explained,” At the heart of ‘Project Spread’ is the Christ-like ideal of reaching out—of extending a hand to those less fortunate. This is the essence of Christmas.

“As we celebrate this season, let us follow the example of Christ who gave freely to DOO DQG OHW WKDW VHOÁHVVQHVV EH WKH EHDFRQ that lights our way.”

She equally urged well-meaning Nigerians to embrace the act of giving and showing

love to those who have less.

“Your involvement is essential in perpetuating this cycle of giving, ensuring that the true warmth and love of Christmas is experienced in every interaction, every gesture, every home, and heart around the world,” she said.

L-R: Ifeanyi Adefarasin, wife of Pastor Paul Adefarasin, The Metropolitan All House On The Rock, and beneficiaries of Project Spread held at The Rock Cathedral Lekki

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 23, 2023

35

EXPRESSION

MEDIAGAFFES

Defecting, Not Decampee, Politicians

EBERE WABARA

V

ANGUARD Views Page of December 9 opens the floodgate of solecisms today: “The spontaneous reactions and destruction that trailed the annulment of the 1983 presidential election was (were) the….”

“This explains the negative perception to (of) the defection of politicians….”

“Decampee (Defecting) politicians and their hosts are birds of a feather….”

“The nation remains the losers (loser) with this type of attitude to politics.” “…a clog (cog) on (in) our wheel of progress.” A cog in the machine/wheel….

Next is Blueprint of December 10: “Represented at (on) the occasion by the Federal Director of Fisheries….” “…before placing an import ban on same (the same).”

“NGO sensitizes students on (to) drug abuse” “I remember a young man who visited me at home one early morning during the recent ASUU strike in company of (with) his mother to….”

“FG’s fish import policy not our headache says trawler owners” Business & Finance: a comma after ‘headache’ and non-inflection of ‘say’ would have conferred class.

“Radio presenter arrested over (for) fake death announcement” THE NATION ON SUNDAY COMMENT of December 3 indulged in illiterate lexical homilies trebly: “…the immense hardships majority (a majority) of Nigerians are going through.”

“Our leaders were elected to utilize their minds and talents in seeking for solutions to…as President Tinubu’s remarks suggests (why?)….” Without sermonizing, delete ‘for’!

BY

Overheard: “Do not pull my legs (leg).” To ‘pull somebody’s legs’ could be fatalistic! But, take the bull by the horns (not horn, as most people say or write).

“Xmas: Gov sets up vigilante group” Get it right: vigilance group.

“More time sought for voters (voters’) registration” Also: voter registration (preferably) “HIV/AIDS: Family Health International rounds up Alive 2023” Living Healthy: It is sickening that a reporter and his sub-editor colleague cannot differentiate between ‘round off’ and ‘round up’! ”We forget that the way we handle such matters speaks volume (volumes) of the kind of people we are.”

“National integration was based on coerciveness resulting to (in)….”

“This is not to say that ethnic chauvinism or hatred are non existence (is non-existent) in Yugoslav politics….”

“Africa is steeped in fetish wickedness, ancestral and generational curses, jealous friends, aunts, and unhappy mother-in laws et cetera.”

It could be you: mothers-in-law.

“Tinubu-bashing has suddenly become a national past time.” In defence of Asiwaju: pastime (note the spelling).

“Doctors strike: A post mortem” Get it right: Doctors’ strike: A post-mortem “…Government should be able to rely on foreign medical expatriates in building a strong healthcare delivery system.” ‘Foreign expatriates’? Please, gentlemen, are there

local, domestic or internal ones?

“The kind of danger African soldiering has continued to pose to the political development and stability in (on) the continent.”

“Fate of foreigners hang (hangs) in the balance” “Dangote signs-on (signs on) 40 distributors” Phrasal verbs abhor hyphenation.

“We most certainly have not heard the last about the convoy crash and the woe and blood it left in (on) its trail.” “…the huge confidences reposed on (in) them by the populace.”

“They are the products of what some people did or did not do over a period of time but whose climactic effect culminated into (in) catastrophe.”

“The trajectory of these actions and inactions have (had) identifiable patterns.…”

“Yes, we must stop celebrating looters and mediocres of Nigeria.” Get it right and choose from any of these: mediocrities or the mediocrity. ‘Mediocre’ is an adjective, an absolute, that cannot function as a noun.

“We congratulate the seven illustrious Nigerians for (on/upon) their staggering achievement which cannot….”

“But, while the governor may have been a rebel among the army of Jonathan’s political faithfuls....” Gov. Amaechi, rebel with a cause: Jonathan’s faithful (not faithfuls).

“He stuck to his gun (guns) and prodded himself up as one of the candidates in the election.”

“Bank assures on ethical practices” Who did the bank assure?

“Ward chairmen pass ‘no confidence’ vote on councilors” Not news: confidence vote in (not on) councilors. “…the lives of the young officers comprising of some…” To avoid shame and

Reminiscences: Hazards of Our Job - 2

“O

ne incident I would not easily forget about Ken-Caleb Olumese’s Niteshift and its rainbow coalition of patrons was my encounter with perennial ‘World Cruiserweight’ contender, Bash Ali. As it was usual with Niteshift, the quality and diversity of patrons made it a prime catchment area for interesting tidbits about the wealthy, the famous and the shadowy pretenders. In one of my write-ups, I had written something about Bash Ali that was very annoying to him, but hilarious and factual to me. And he had sworn to deal with that “bloody journalist” anywhere he came across him. On that fateful night, I came quietly as usual into the Niteshift, and as it was common with the protocol of the house, the DJ would make a short announcement hailing your presence. But Bash Ali was around in the Gold Card section. He sprang up when he heard my initials, and was looking for me. Since I mostly worked incognito then, he didn’t know me. Seeing him at over six feet, with bulging though greying muscles...I had no doubt that my little boxing skills picked up at Rowe Park ages ago would be greatly out-smashed and pulverised by the enraged ‘professional’.

Someone must have told him I had just stepped downstairs, and he charged down, threatening and shouting as he sped down.

A number of good Samaritans, God bless their unknown souls, stepped in between us as the hulk of a man came within a foot of my lanky frame. He calmed down somewhat, and threatened to watch for my next edition so as to know his next action - now that he had seen my face. I was quiet, playing with a small smile by the corner of my mouth. Those close to me, who knew that was my sign to mean “we have just started”...then began to beg me to ‘let bygones be bygones’.”

In general, producing what we called “Nigeria’s number one celebrity journal” in our late 20s, would ordinarily be some kind of catapult capable of flinging you into uncharted

waters, needing you to apply wisdom or native intelligence, if you must survive.

“Big men, under the illusion that they had you in their pockets (as your privileged friends or godfathers), would speak so unguardedly and cavalierly. We fed on their frailties and delusion, chipping gently and carefully around those incredible exposes, while we craftily devised means of screening them from any link or part in some of the “world exclusive” reports we published.

We also sought earth-shattering interviews, especially those with the edgy spice of highflying relationships gone awry, business masterpieces shattered by greed or some other wrongdoings. One particular story which became perhaps our all-time greatest cover story was as a result of a double-part interview granted me by Remi, the estranged first wife of former head of state, General Olusegun Obasanjo (retd).

The woman was wary, and distrustful of journalists. In 1991, she was in a volatile and precarious relationship with Obasanjo. She wanted to tell her story which she believed was toxic, and would be highly disconcerting to the person and stature of the retired general.

She was living in a duplex inside Ikeja GRA which she claimed belonged to the couple, and from which Obasanjo had been trying to eject her.

For a few years, she had been frustrated by antics of some of the journalists she had tried to open up to...she believed the reporters or their editors were intimidated by Obasanjo to abandon the story. By the time I was introduced to her, the prevailing circumstances were even more ominous for her to be afraid of any dealings with the media. It was around the time, late in 1991, when Obasanjo ran a strong campaign to succeed Peruvian diplomat, Javier Pérez de Cuéllar, as the next Secretary General of the United Nations.

When we met, I was able to convince her to let down her robust guard, and share her reminiscences with me. The winning argument was that I held the unique privilege of being a reporter like most journalists, but also an

editor and a co-publisher of the magazine, which no one else then could match. She was mollified. But we still had a back and forth, jousting like expert fencers, for about two days, before she finally accepted the interview.

Really, we just wanted to know more about Obasanjo from the home perspective, beyond the usual. Well, when she started, she assured me she was only going to focus on what he was as a husband, and not provide us with any salacious details. She didn’t want to ‘kill’ him...only to let him know he couldn’t get away with ‘attempted murder’! But by the end of the session - and two more sessions spanning a week - she had overrun her barriers, and provided a chest full of “shattering” info, scenarios and incidents that put Obasanjo squarely in the mud.

To remind you of the feel of that powerful edition, let me rehash the preamble I wrote before the main interview in October, 1991: “Few minutes after the interview began, somebody called the attention of Mrs. Oluremi Obasanjo to the presence of a visitor at the gate. Within seconds the greying woman in her mid-fifties had been enveloped in another battle. A true picture of her life: constant battles with forces she could not manage nor persuade. At the end of her hands were the rumpled kaftan of a tall dark man identified simply as Charlie. He confirmed that he is “Personal Assistant” to General Olusegun Obasanjo, Nigerian former head of state and front-runner for the coveted post of the United Nations’ Secretary-General.

That was Wednesday, this week (October 9, 1991).”

“Just as Remi Obasanjo, who married the General on June 22, 1963 (S.E. West, London) screamed that the tall dark chap was an agent-provocateur who had been sent to inflict injury on her; so did the man quietly protest that he came in good faith. He had no weapon on him except his rumpled kaftan and a cap now resting far away from his head after being flung off during the ‘scuffle’.

“The estranged couple have been (at) each other’s throats over the rentage of a bungalow

ewabara@yahoo.com, 08055001948

morphological fatality, delete the second ‘of’!

Apart from the roads, the water and light were, and still are, fallouts of community development efforts.” Politics Today: ‘fallout’ is non-count, dear colleagues.

“Tariff reduction as a soothing balm for music industry” What is the function of a balm? Is it not to soothe? So, why soothing balm’?

“When the affected states demanded for payment in full…” ‘Demand’, when applied as a verb, does not admit ‘for’, except in noun usages.

“By the time the past administration wounded up (this is sheer idiocy and illiteracy!) the PTF at inception in 1999….”

This goof should not be a challenge even to pupils in a transition (fundamental) class!

Just wound up “The same goal has been restated again.”

The new lexical regime: obliterate ‘again’ in the interest of truth and reason.

“Where is judicial precedence?” Why is it difficult for sub-editors to distinguish between ‘precedence’ and ‘precedent’ (which applies here)?

“Undoubtedly, the police has (have) suffered serious institutional constraints such that its (their) combat readiness…”

“It is only reasonable and logical to expect that what is good (sauce) for the military goose is also good (sauce) for the police gander.”

“The article was an insult on the Federal Government, the National Assembly and an affront on the ICPC and its competent and hardworking staff.” Justice in service of community: an affront to (not on) the ICPC. And, of course, an insult to (not on) the FG.

COUNTERPOINT

FEMI

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

situated on high-brow Oduduwa Crescent, GRA, Ikeja (Lagos). The General insisted in a letter to his wife that he has sold the house for ₦2 million, but the wife disagreed; she has also rented it out for an undisclosed sum. Battle storm gathered.

“But the conflict goes far beyond today’s misunderstanding. According to the middle aged woman who first met the General on a Sunday in March, 1956 at Owu, Abeokuta (Ogun State), the incident is one in her multitude of woes which have now made her believe her husband has become a threat.

“With unhidden frustration, the mother of six children bared her hurt heart to FAME Weekly, and we (have captured) the General as you may never have seen before - through the eyes of his very first wife. This is her story.”

Of course, we splashed the stories across the covers of two editions...to the consternation of friends and loved ones...and to the grief of the general’s supporters and our competitors.

The first explosion, on October 12, 1981, was titled “Obasanjo’s Secret Shame Exposed: First wife tears him a-p-a-r-t - He beats me often - I sold my trinkets to pay children’s school fees - His son once told him: ‘I’m mad because you’re mad…’”.

It completely dominated the cover with the couple’s traditional wedding picture. The follow-up on October 19 was equally the main cover story: “Obasanjo’s Expose Update: First wife cries out - I want Nigerians to save my life”... (with a fairly big picture highlighting her swollen right eye).

Well, Obasanjo lost the chance, despite his otherwise sterling credentials. His Egyptian counterpart, Boutros Boutros-Ghali became the sixth holder of that prestigious office, from January 1, 1992 to December 31, 1996.”

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 24, 2011

GLOBAL SOCCER A

WEEKLY PULL-OUT

23.12.2023

NEWS

TITLE DECIDER? PAGE. 36

Kelechi Iheanacho Will Foxes Cash-in on Him?

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾DECEMBER 23, 2023

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Iheanacho scores against Stoke City

Kelechi Iheanacho Will Foxes Cash-in on Him? With just about six months to the end of his contract and high-flying Aston Villa set to bolster their team in a quest for a top-four finish in the Premier League and moving to sign Kelechi Iheanacho in the January transfer window, Leicester City might be forced to cash-in on the Nigerian rather than let go for free in the summer

A

ston Villa have set their sights on Leicester City star, Kelechi Iheanacho ahead of the January transfer window, the Nigerian is on the radar for the Midlands giants as they step up their push for a forward signing in the new year.

Meanwhile, 27-year-old Iheanacho is out of contract at the end of this season and has featured sparingly for Leicester in recent weeks.

Villa are prioritising a striker signing in January – with manager Unai Emery keen to add someone who can deputise for Ollie Watkins and provide reinforcements in attack.

Watkins has notched 14 goals and eight assists in 24 appearances across all competitions so far in the 2023-24 campaign.

He has started every game in the Premier League this term, with Jhon Duran so far untrusted to play a key role in the English top flight and Villa are planning to let Duran go in January with a loan move most likely.

Aston Villa plan to let Jhon Duran go in January after upsetting Unai Emery.

Football Insider has learned that Aston Villa are planning to let John Duran go in the January window on loan.

It is believed the youngster’s attitude has been questioned by Emery on multiple occasions and he

has been told to make major improvements to fit in with the Spaniard’s no-nonsense demands.

Iheanacho has notched six goals and two assists in 20 appearances for Leicester following their relegation from the Premier League last term.

Indeed, Iheanacho is not short of suitors as his contract at Leicester City winds down at the end of this season.

Iheanacho, 27, has netted five goals and made two assists in 18 appearances for Leicester City who are flying in the English Championship as they aim for a promt return to the English Premier League.

According to Football Insider, high-flying Aston are the latest Premier League club interested in the striker, with Wolves and Crystal Palace are the other Premier League teams in the chase of striker.

Meanwhile, Nigeria manager Jose Peseiro has been handed a fitness boost two weeks before the start of a training camp for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, with Iheanacho getting the green light to return to action.

The 2013 Fifa U17 World Cup Golden Ball winner was named in the Foxes matchday squad for their Championship clash against Birmingham City at St Andrew’s on Monday night, but remained rooted to the bench for the entirety of the game.

Iheanacho was fit enough to be

named in the traveling squad to Birmingham after recovering from an illness that kept him out of the team that beat Plymouth Argyle and Millwall.

The Manchester City academy product has been included in Nigeria’s 40-man provisional squad for the Africa Cup of Nations and is a shoo-in to make the final squad barring an injury.

Iheanacho has played in twenty matches for Leicester City so far this season, scoring six goals and assisting two.

The 27-year-old will be hoping to accumulate more match minutes before linking up with the Nigeria squad at their Africa Cup of Nations training camp in the first week of January.

He has been arguably the Super Eagles most influential player since the end of last season, having scored or assisted in each of his last five appearances for the national team and wore the captain’s armband in a 2026 World Cup qualifier against Lesotho.

Aston Villa boss, Unai Emery is reportedly interested in adding Kelechi Iheanacho to his ranks in the January window and the Nigerian could depart Leicester City in the January window, with Aston Villa emerging as frontrunners to secure his signature.

The 27-year-old will be a free agent next summer and Leicester may be

forced to cash out in January, rather than letting him walk for free Iheanacho has been in fine form this season, notching six goals for the Sky Bet Championship side as they maintain their promotion chase, but a move to a team at the upper end of the Premier League table will certainly appeal to the ex-Manchester City man.

A move for the Leicester man would prove the more sensible option, with just six months left on his deal.

Iheanacho was heavily linked with moves away from the King Power Stadium when Leicester got relegated from the EPL to the Championship last season, and the manager, Enzo Maresca said the club was also willing to let go.

“The market is open, anything can happen. We can bring in players and we can sell them too. The market is long. There are many weeks so we’ll see,” Maresca said in July.

However, months later, Iheanacho rather settled fully into life in the Championship, turning up in style for the Foxes in their quest for an immediate return to the English topflight.

Last season has almost reached that figure this season with his five goals and one assist in 18 appearances in the Championship. In the Carabao Cup, he also scored one goal and one assist in two appearances.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾DECEMBER 23, 2023

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Liverpool Welcome Arsenal to Anfield in EarlyTitle Decider The latest mouth-watering item on the festive Premier League menu is a topof-the-table showdown between Liverpool and Arsenal, who lock horns in this evening’s headline encounter at Anfield Head -to -Head 04/03/17 Liverpool 3-1 Arsenal 27/08/17 Liverpool 4-0 Arsenal 22/12/17 Arsenal 3-3 Liverpool 03/11/18 Arsenal 1-1 Liverpool 29/12/18 Liverpool 5-1 Arsenal 24/08/19 Liverpool 3-1 Arsenal 15/07/20 Arsenal 2-1 Liverpool 28/09/20 Liverpool 3-1 Arsenal 03/04/21 Arsenal 0-3 Liverpool 20/11/21 Liverpool 4-0 Arsenal 16/03/22 Arsenal 0-2 Liverpool 09/10/22 Arsenal 3-2 Liverpool 09/04/23 Liverpool 2-2 Arsenal

Premier League Table

Arsenal were quicker from the blocks when they visited Anfield last season

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he Gunners boast a one-point advantage over their Merseyside counterparts at this juncture, although Aston Villa are also within touching distance and are waiting to pounce on any slip-ups from their podium rivals.

Refusing to hand out any early Christmas gifts to their bitter adversaries, Manchester United set up to subject Liverpool to 90 minutes of frustration last weekend, where Jurgen Klopp’s troops bombarded the Red Devils’ door with an incessant onslaught of attacks to no avail.

Thanks to Liverpool’s sustained ruthlessness in front of goal and a handful of marvellous defensive displays - Raphael Varane in particular earned his keep - Man United travelled home with a point despite facing a staggering 34 shots, the most Liverpool have ever had in a Premier League game without scoring since 2003.

Liverpool were a far cry from the unmerciful attacking unit which put seven past the Red Devils in March, but Klopp’s team reignited the bluetouch paper in Wednesday’s EFL Cup quarter-final clash with West Ham United, producing a five-star display in a 5-1 crushing to set up a semi-final showdown with Fulham.

However, after witnessing his charges drop points at home for the first time this season at the weekend, Klopp conceded that he was left disappointed by a perceived lack of Anfield atmosphere in midweek and issued a rallying cry to supporters as Liverpool endeavour to avoid going scoreless in back-to-back Premier League home games for the first time since March 2021.

The hosts had made the net bulge in 26 top-flight matches on the trot before bowing to the Red Devils’ defensive superiority, but their overall unbeaten run in the Premier League now stands at 10 games, and it has been nearly 14

months since Leeds United subjected Liverpool to their most recent top-flight home defeat.

Home defeats against Brighton & Hove Albion have been all too familiar for those of an Arsenal persuasion since the Seagulls soared into the top flight, but Roberto De Zerbi’s team had their wings clipped at the Emirates last weekend, where Mikel Arteta’s men regained their rightful place at the top of the standings.

One week on from an agonising 1-0 loss to Aston Villa - where the Gunners were also their own worst enemies in front of goal - a similar story unfolded in the first half of Sunday’s encounter, but Arsenal ensured that their earlier missed opportunities would not come back to haunt them thanks to Gabriel Jesus’s header and Kai Havertz’s fourth goal from seven games in the second period.

Victory over the team led by De Zerbi - who boldly claimed that Arsenal are currently the best team in the land - ensured that the Gunners would be looking down on the other 19 Premier League teams for at least a couple of hours, and Arteta’s side could now top the rankings on Christmas Day for the second year running.

Of course, the ‘winter champions’ tag was rendered meaningless for Arsenal at the end of the 2022-23 season, but with Manchester City enduring a December drought and also postponing their title charge to battle for Club World Cup glory, the time is nigh for the Gunners to lay down another title marker.

Arteta’s charges may have fallen short at the Villa Park fortress on December 9, but not since May 2022 have the Gunners lost back-to-back Premier League games on rival turf, and from their previous six away losses before being stunted in the West Midlands, Arsenal won their next road match on each occasion.

A pair of high-scoring spectaculars

last season saw Arsenal sink Liverpool 3-2 at the Emirates before being held to a 2-2 draw, where the Reds came from 2-0 down to snatch a share of the spoils, but not since the days of Lukas Podolski and Santi Cazorla in 2012 have the Gunners emerged triumphant from a top-flight Anfield encounter.

Meanwhile, in the face of Liverpool’s promising start to the season, Reds legend, Jamie Carragher remains skeptical about its chances of securing the Premier League title. Carragher acknowledges the team’s robust early-season performance but questions whether Jürgen Klopp’s restructured squad is genuinely ready to contend for the championship.

Liverpool has kicked off the 2023/24 season on a high note after revamping their roster during the summer. If it manages to triumph over Arsenal this coming weekend, it could potentially occupy the top spot in the Premier League during Christmas. However, despite his optimism about Liverpool’s commendable early-season performance, Carragher is not yet completely convinced about its potential to be a genuine title contender.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Carragher shared his concerns: “When you look at the points Liverpool have got they are one of the top teams in the country.

But when you actually look at the performances, I’m not sure. And I just think I probably need a little bit more convincing.” But he also suggested that this season may not require a team to win nearly every week to secure the title, unlike previous seasons dominated by Liverpool and Manchester City.

“There’s no better way to do that than by getting a great result against Arsenal at the weekend, who at this moment are top of the table,” Carragher added. “But I just think Liverpool might be a little bit short of winning the title, I hope I’m wrong. It might be a season that’s a little bit different than what we’ve seen in the past where

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Arsenal Liverpool Aston Villa Man City Tottenham Newcastle Man Utd Brighton West Ham Chelsea Fulham Brentford Wolves Bournemouth Crystal Palace Everton Nottm Forest Luton Burnley Sheff Utd

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20 21 16 20 12 15 -3 3 -1 2 -3 0 -8 -9 -8 2 -13 -15 -20 -31

39 38 38 34 33 29 28 27 27 22 21 19 19 19 18 16 14 9 8 8

PREMIER LEAGUE TODAY

West Ham v Man Utd 12:30 Fulham v Burnley 15:00 Luton Town v Newcastle 15:00 Man City v Brentford PP Nott’m Forest v Bournemouth 15:00 Tottenham v Everton 15:00 Liverpool v Arsenal 17:30 SUNDAY

Wolves v Chelsea

13:00

La Liga TODAY

Atlético v Sevilla 15:15

Hot Shot PLAYERS

Erling Haaland Mohamed Salah Son Heung-min Jarrod Bowen Ollie Watkins Dominic Solanke Hwang Hee-chan Callum Wilson Bryan Mbeumo Alexander Isak Nicolas Jackson

CLUB

GOALS

Man City 14 Liverpool 11 Tottenham 10 West Ham 10 Aston Villa 9 Bournemouth 9 Wolves 8 Newcastle 7 Brentford 7 Newcastle 7 Chelsea 7

you’ve almost felt like you had to win almost week after week. The standards that Liverpool and Manchester City set for so long, it may be a little bit different this season.”

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾DECEMBER 23, 2023

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GLOBAL SOCCER

L-R: Chairman Ajeromi/Ifelodun Local Government, Fatia Ayoola, Borussia Dortmond Striker, Karim Adeyemi, Chairman Nathaniel Idowu Foundation,Yemi Idowu and Head of Youth Academy, Borussia Dortmond, Christian Gierth at the Maracana Stadium, Ajegunle, Christmas party yesterday

Manchester City cruise to first Club World Cup triump

Man City Make History with Club World Cup Win I’m Still Very Attached to Nigeria, Karim Adeyemi Julian Alvarez scored twice as Manchester City won the Fifa Club World Cup for the first time by beating Brazilian’s Fluminense in Saudi Arabia.

Pep Guardiola’s side, taking part in the tournament after winning last season’s Champions League, made the ideal start as Alvarez struck after 40 seconds, chesting in from close range after Nathan Ake’s long-range strike hit the post.

They added a second in the 27th minute when Nino turned Phil Foden’s cross into the back of his own net.

England’s Foden then got on the scoresheet himself in the second half when he darted through the middle to prod in Alvarez’s cross, before the Argentine forward got his second in the 88th minute with a clinical strike into the far corner.

Success meant City emulated

Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea in lifting the Club World Cup, but became the first English side to win five trophies in a calendar year.

The Treble of Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League last season was followed by the Uefa Super Cup in August.

But some of the shine was taken off their victory by the sight of Rodri - so influential for the side - going off injured towards the end of the second half.

Meanwhile, Egyptian side Al Ahly claimed third place with a 4-2 win against Urawa Red Diamonds of Japan.

Although winning the Club World Cup has often carried less importance for English sides, Guardiola had spoken of his determination to “close the circle” and lift the trophy he believed would complete City’s collection.

While this was their first appearance in the tournament, Guardiola had won it before with Barcelona and Bayern Munich and underlined his desire to triumph again by naming a strong line-up.

The outcome was a dominant display by the reigning Premier League champions, with goalkeeper Ederson largely untested aside from a Jhon Arias header just before half-time, and a late John Kennedy strike.

City will celebrate before switching focus back to domestic matters, with their next game an away trip to Everton on Wednesday, 27 December.

With one win in their last six Premier League games, they will hope to use the momentum of their confident victory, and accolades of being crowned world champions, to get their title defence back on track.

AFCON Appearances for Nigeria Reduced My Arsenal First Team Former Super Eagles striker, Nwankwo Kanu, has explained that he played most of Arsenal’s games in the invincible season on the bench because of the AFCON tournament.

Kanu, 47, enjoyed a stellar footballing career in Europe.

He played for Internazionale, Ajax, Arsenal, Portsmouth and West Brom, winning the UEFA Champions League, he English Premier League twice, and the UEFA Super Cup. Speaking recently with Arsenal in a recap of the record breaking 2003/2004 Premier League season where the Gunners won the league without

losing a single game, Kanu highlighted that his decision to play for the Super Eagles during the AFCON tournament cost him a place in the team.

Prior to the start of the tournament in 2004, Kanu had featured in nine games for Arsene Wenger’s side, but when he returned, he could only garner twenty-nine Premier League minutes under his belt.

“It was difficult, because in a squad of so many good players, when you lose your place, it’s hard to get it back.

Obviously Arsenal did very well while I was away, so it

was hard for me to get into the team again after going away. Sometimes it worked the other way. When you go away sometimes, they need you back in the team or need to change things, but that season, they didn’t need to change anything,” the 1.97m tall forward told Arsenal’s official website.

Nigeria ended third place in the AFCON 2004 tournament, beating Mali 2-1 to secure a bronze medal, but Papilo already lost his spot in the first team. He moved on to West Bromwich Albion the following season.

Serie A Clubs Scramble for Super Eagles Striker, Boniface Super Eagles and Bayer 04 Leverkusen striker, Victor Boniface, is the centre of interest from three Serie A clubs.

The 22-year-old joined Leverkusen in July in a 22 million euro deal from Belgian side, Union Saint-Gilloise, and has won the Bundesliga rookie of the month award four times.

The Nigerian striker has been involved in 22 games for Die Werkself, with a return of 15 goals and eight assists, helping Xabi Alonso’s men to an unbeaten Hinrunde as they

lead a title charge against record Champions, Bayern Munich.

According to Italian outlet, Tutto Mercato, three Serie A clubs are eyeing a summer move for the Leverkusen striker after just six months into life in Germany.

Napoli, A.C. Milan and Juventus are the three clubs eyeing the Super Eagles striker. Victor Osimhen is reportedly close to signing a new deal with Napoli, but with an official announcement yet to be made, the club are eyeing Boniface as a potential replacement.

Milan are also looking to

replace the ageing Olivier Giroud and with Dusan Vlahovic keen on leaving the Allianz Arena in Turin, Massimiliano Allegri also has his sights on Boniface, and the Nigerian will cost the interest parties about €40m to secure his services.

Jose Peseiro included Boniface in his provisional 40-man squad for the AFCON tournament and will want the Leverkusen striker in his squad to travel to Ivory Coast as he’s the Nigerian player with most goal involvements this season.

Newcastle Showing Interest in signing Dutch-Nigerian Striker, Zirkzee Newcastle are ready to make a push for the signing of DutchNigerian Joshua Zirkzee whose form with Bologna has caught their attention.

According to Milan Web, the Magpies are ready to beat AC Milan to the signing of the former Bayern Munich forward.

The reports state that Newcastle are ready to table an offer in the region of €50m to secure his signature and are also ready to offer him a mega salary which

will persuade him to join the club.

Zirkzee joined Bologna from Bayern Munich in August 2022 but struggled to adapt to the rigours of Italian football, scoring just two goals in 19 appearances in the Serie A. It appears the 22-year-old has finally adapted to the demands of the league this season having scored seven goals so far which includes his strike against table-toppers, Inter Milan

in October.

According to Italian transfer market expert, Fabrizio Romano, the Super Eagles-eligible striker has a €40m (approximately N40 billion in Nigerian currency) release clause in his current deal.

Bayern Munich can get him for half of the fee if they are interested in bringing him back to the Allianz Arena while they will also have a 50% share of the proceeds of his sale if Bologna sell him elsewhere.

Borussia Dortmund forward, Karim Adeyemi, landed in Nigeria recently, returning to Ibadan to witness the Karim Adeyemi Foundation academy in action at the Olubadan Stadium.

Speaking to Soccernet.ng, the German-based player addressed the curiosity about his investment in his father’s homeland, Nigeria.

Born in Munich, Germany, to a Nigerian father, Abbey Adeyemi, and Romanian mother, Alexandra Adeyemi, he has represented Germany in various youth international tournaments.

Despite his German ties, Adeyemi’s footballing journey began in both Munich (Germany) and Ibadan (Nigeria), shaping his connection to Nigeria significantly.

Adeyemi highlighted his deep-rooted connection to Nigeria through his father and childhood memories of playing football in the streets with local friends during visits.

“As I said, I think I have my root here. My father is from here, and his heart is still here in Nigeria. Of course, my heart is also here in Nigeria,” he shared.

His passion for giving back

to the community involves offering educational and football opportunities to youngsters.

“There is a story of how I came here to Nigeria. I saw the kids playing football on the street, and I played with them. It’s a small story, but it touched my heart all my life. So, I try to give something back to the community.” he continued.

Adeyemi aims to provide schooling and football training with qualified coaches, emphasising the significance of this initiative.

“The first thing is to help people. To give teenagers and children the opportunity to choose their life, to go to school, to play football, and with good qualities, good coaches, this is what we are trying to do,” he added.

Accompanied by Borussia Dortmund staff, the 21-yearold expressed pride in the club’s involvement in Nigeria, hinting at future collaborations between his foundation and the academy, aiming to pave the way for Nigerian talents to reach the high leagues in Europe.

“Of course, BVB is here,

makes me also really proud that they made a big way to Nigeria. To look how it is, and maybe work with my foundation and this is really important for me. So of course, the academy, if we plan for the future, we can do some good things and maybe also as you said with the academy, maybe also get in players to Europe, and give them the opportunity to play in the high league.” said Karim.

He concluded his visit by actively participating in various event activities, including refereeing the matches and presenting cash prizes to the young players.

Karim Adeyemi founded the Karim Adeyemi Foundation (KAF) in Nigeria to transform the lives of underserved communities by empowering children and youths to become change agents Karim Adeyemi founded the Karim Adeyemi Foundation (KAF) in Nigeria to transform the lives of underserved communities by empowering children and youths to become change agents.

Trinity College Plans Big for Sports in 2024 To give sports the needed attention as well as to hone the skills of their students, Ogun State-based Trinity College has partnered a foremost grassroots sports development firm – Dynaspro Promotions Limited to kick start a sports academy in the school in 2024.

Expressing delight over the development, the school’s Director of Education, Mrs. Rebeca Adeyemo described it as a long-time desire of the school to improve its sports activities.

According to the partnership, Dynaspro will help to coordinate the sports academy starting from January 2024 while an Easter football camp will also be organised by Dynaspro in collaboration with UK-based FCV Academy.

“The place of sport in educational development cannot be

overemphasised. Apart from the physical alertness which helps children to overcome the problems of the student life, research has shown a correlation between sport and improvement in academic performance because of the social skills and emotional skills as well as life skills that sport helps to build in the life of children.

“Our children in Trinity are excited when we announced we are partnering with Dynaspro Sports Promotion because a lot of them in the university, in the United States and United Kingdom actually gained scholarships on the basis of their participation in sports, when we were not even doing it at a professional level. Now that we are partnering with Dynaspro, this will ensure that students will earn sports scholarships into the US, UK and even Canada on

the basis of sports. It also helps their mental health as it helps them to develop the resilience spirit, when you fail, you don’t give up.

“We want our children as students in Trinity International College to develop that resilience spirit, that winning spirit and we are sure that they are winners. Parents have been excited since we announced it to them and the exciting part is that Dynaspro is also a partner of FCV in Britain. Invariably, we are bringing an international sporting academy based in the UK into Trinity International College,” she added.

For the Principal, Sunday Olajide, the development would surely excite the students who have been yearning for such an opportunity.

Team Strength Wins Overall at LSSC Sports Fiesta It has been an eventful, entertaining and healthy competition at Lagos State Sports Commission LSSC, End-of-Year Sports Fiesta held at the Mobolaji Johnson Sports Centre, Rowe Park, Yaba, as Team Strength emerged overall champions.

The men and women of Grand (Matron) Mrs. OshodiEko Titilayo, Director Public Affairs and Grand (Patron) Elder Omoloju Oluwasegun, Director Administration and Human Resources performed excellently in all the Games

having showed their dominance to remain top on the medals table.

All the teams with the support of their matrons and patrons demonstrated resilience and attributes of sportsmanship by competing fairly in a serene environment created by the top management of the LSSC, steering by the Director General, Oluwatoyin Gafaar.

History has been made as Team Strength is the first side to win the highest gold medals in a sports fiesta with the mantra

of “STRONGER2GETHER” to promote and encourage strong ethical values and a sense of integrity amongst the members of staff.

Catching the train, egg race , volleyball , badminton and Tug O’War finals were also concluded.

Another interesting part of the event on day-4, is the grit and zeal produced in the volleyball final between Team Strength and Commitment shaking the floor and keeping spectators amazed, which later ended in favour of the team on yellow. attire.

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MISSILE

Amosun to Oshiomhole “If anyone was in doubt that Senator Adams Oshiomhole posed the biggest and most destructive threat to the existence of the APC at that time, and the party’s best bet was to dispose of a canon folder that he was and unfortunately still is, his utterances and grandstanding yesterday at an occasion to find solutions to our democratic and party challenges, would have cleared such mindset” –Senator Ibikunle Amosun

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OKEYIKECHUKWU EDIFYING ELUCIDATIONS

okey.ikechukwu@thisdaylive.com

The Real Enemies of Christmas

T

he festoons are out there! All over the place, that is. There is a subtly frenzied atmosphere, despite the downturn on several fronts. The moving to and fro is subdued, but it is still there. The somewhat undefined excitement is more unreal than real.

It is all largely subliminal, because the cash flow crisis is more real than the half-hearted attempts at a celebration.

Anon, traveling long distances for the celebrations is hamstrung by both paucity of funds and the level of insecurity in the land. We say nothing about the condition of our roads. Thus, it seems safe to say that the current state of the national economy, as well as the general air of concealed consternation everywhere, have become the enemies of this year’s Christmas, right? Wrong!

Christmas commemorates the birth of One Who came to show us how to be real and true human beings, according to the Will of God. It is supposed to be a time to reflect on the Message of Salvation He brought to mankind; a time to weight our lives to see whether it measures up to His teachings.

From such reflection, Christmas is supposed to nudge us towards rededication to Truth and inner rebirth.

Yes, Christmas is a Spiritual Festival that has since been overshadowed and drowned be commercialism and banal engagements.

The excitement is there, alright, but it is an excitement that exhausts itself in an epidemic of social activities. Will this year’s Christmas be any different? Will it herald a clear banishment of the true enemies of Christmas? I think not.

It is not a question of whether bandits are on the roads or not. It is not a question of anyone having, or not having, intimations of fun or the absence of both. It is not even the near-certainty that there may not be much to look forward to in the new year, after the festivities. None of these forebodings, and thoughts, thoughts are the real enemies of Christmas, no!

Since this is the time to remind ourselves of the true meaning of Christmas and strive to live up to the Message of Jesus Christ, brought to us some 2000 years ago, let us raise a question that had been raised on this page before, namely: “Is it true that Christ came to this world to cleanse us of our spiritual defilement, so we could go to heaven?

Let us also follow a hypothetical John and his uncle in a dialogue revolving around how the teachings of Christ could help cleanse us of spiritual defilement. Here we go, with a re-enactment of that exchange.

John: Uncle, I would like you to explain, once again, what you meant when you told me that the message of Jesus Christ was intended to save us from further spiritual defilement.

Uncle: Look at it like this: A human being who acts against the laws of God automatically deviates from what is good for him as a creature of God. It also means that such a human being is doing what would prevent

Christmas traditions in Nigeria

him from going to heaven.

John: Oh, I see! But how about the issue of defilement? It is written in the 11th verse of the 15th chapter of the book of Matthew: “It is not what goeth into the mouth that defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the man…”

Uncle: Yes? John: My question now is this: How can it be that it is only what comes out of a man that can cause defilement?” The statement contradicts common sense and I do not know what to make of it.

Uncle: If a human being is just the physical body, then whatever unclean, substance enters the body has defiled the complete human being. But ‘physical’ defilement is not the same thing as spiritual defilement. We cannot say that someone is sick because his clothes are unclean. We also cannot say that a driver is sick because his car, which is an instrument designed to carry him from one place to another, is not functioning properly.

John: Hmmm, this is all sounding a bit peculiar; I must say. But I think I can see the point.

Uncle: Only spiritual defilement can be described as true defilement of the real human being.

John: So, to defile the body is not quite the same thing as to defile the man?

Uncle: No, it is not. Now, going back to the Mission of Christ, the priests, Sadducees and the Pharisees in Israel were more concerned about physical cleanliness than spiritual purity an uprightness.

John: Really?

Uncle: But of course. Think of the damage that disobedience to the commandments of Go can o to us spiritually. That is why Christ asked the the children of Israel to focus on what really mattered and be saved from spiritual death.

John: I still don’t quite get it.

Uncle: It is what we think, what we say

and what we do that could bring us good or bad karma. They are like seeds we sow into creation, with each seed producing its kind and returning it to us.

John: Sorry, Uncle, could you explain the sowing and reaping part again. I want to know what this has to do with all we are trying to say about what defiles a man, please.

Uncle: If you annoy someone and he gives you a slap, you have sown and reaped something unpleasant.

John: Yes. Uncle: If you drink a glass of poison, it will kill the cells of your body and the body will stop working, leading to physical death, right?

John: Yes. Uncle: But since the body is only a covering for your spirit here on earth, the way a shirt is a covering for your physical body when you come out in the street, the death of the body is not the end of the real you.

John: Yes indeed, the destruction of a shirt does not mean that the person wearing it has been destroyed.

Uncle: Precisely! The thoughts, words and actions of a human being that can create bad karma for him are things that “proceed out of him.”

John: Oh, I can see that quite clearly now.

Uncle: Sin undermines the spirit, hangs on it like an external, inferior or inappropriate attachment that is not original to its true nature.

This is the defilement I mean that Christ came to save us from.

John: But how do I ensure that I do not reap what the bad karma that someone else has sown? There are no policemen in these matters; and I don’t really understand how it works.

Uncle: Let me explain it with an example, if you don’t min?

John: But of course, sir!

Uncle: If you make a hole in the ground and put one grain of corn, one bean seed and one grain of rice into this single hole and water

them, they will all sprout and grow according to their kinds, will they not?

John: Of course, they will!

Uncle: Think of the three different seeds sown into in the same hole. It is in the same way that various seeds take only what they need from the same soil that good and bad volitions develop and bring their fruits to the originators.

John: You are saying that spiritual defilement cannot occur unless a man’s heart sends out evil thoughts, words and actions that then draws bad currents to him?

Uncle: Yes, that should follow from what we have been saying so far. If you go to a restaurant and request for a plate of food and it is given to you, surely, we can say that you asked for the food you got, right?

John: Yes, that would be the right thing to say in such a situation!

Uncle: If what you ordered leads to your having a sour taste in your mouth, we can say that it was you who asked for what brought the sour taste into your mouth, am I correct?

John: Well yes, you are.

Uncle: Just as nothing in a hotel kitchen will come to your table and enter your mouth, except you ask for it, so will no radiation in Creation approach you without you first giving cause for it.

John: You are saying, sir, that it is just our actions and decisions, rather than our circumstances, that determine our spiritual welfare?

Uncle: That is correct. That is also why the celebration of Christmas should really be a festival of thanksgiving to the Almighty for sending One Who could show us the way to the right type of thoughts, words and actions.

John: But, Uncle, have you considered that poverty could drive people into doing all sorts of things? Surely hunger can make a man to steal or become an outright criminal! Can we not excuse such a person?

Uncle: It is not hunger that leads a man to steal, but an act of his will, a decision. It is not just the world around us that makes us to commit murder, but our rejection of the commandments of the Almighty and our decision to operate as renegades in Creation.

It is not just desperation that pushes people to deeds of madness, but the condition of the core of their spiritual being.

John: That sounds rather harsh, sir! Surely some excuse can be found for many wrong things that people do.

Uncle: That excuse is usually invented by people who are dishonest with themselves.

Following the teachings of Christ is a strong help and an antidote to spiritual defilement.

That is what we should celebrate this Christmas season: commitment to that antidote to spiritual defilement and eternal damnation.

John: Hmmm, so you talking about a totally iferent approach an focus whenever we speak, or think of Christmas?

Uncle: Yes indeed, John.

John: I am most grateful for your explanations and your time, Uncle.

Uncle: You are most welcome, John.

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