WEDNESDAY 27TH DECEMBER 2023

MOFI Set to Track Nigeria's Real Estate, Solid Minerals, Oil/Gas Assets Globally Upbeat assets under management will surpass N100tn target

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja The Ministry of Finance Incorpo-

rated (MOFI) is set to track Nigeria's real estate, oil and gas assets, solid minerals, and other assets belonging

to the federal government within and outside the country, as part of efforts to optimise them for

the country’s economic interest.

Managing Director of MOFI, Dr. Armstrong Takang, disclosed this

at the weekend in Abuja.

Takang, who spoke during the inauguration of the restructured

MOFI board, said the organisaContinued on page 40

Olanipekun Writes AGF, Asks FG to Amicably Settle $5.8bn Mambilla Power Project with Sunrise Power... Page 5 Wednesday 27 December, 2023 Vol 28. No 10486. Price: N250

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Tinubu Rejoices With SGF, Akume, at 70... Page 43

Opeyemi Bamidele: NASS Will Pass 2024 Appropriation Bill Saturday Says FG'll go after economic saboteurs next year

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja and Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi

Bamidele, has said the National Assembly would pass the 2024 appropriation bill on December 30 to sustain the January-December

budget cycle.

Bamidele said the federal government would from next year begin to go after economic saboteurs who

made life difficult for Nigerians.

The Ekiti State senator, who is also Chairman of the Southern Senators Forum in the ninth National

Assembly, made the assertions in a statement by his media office, which was made available to journalists in Abuja, yesterday.

The statement explained that Bamidele spoke at a session with Continued on page 40

Incensed by Plateau Xmas Eve Carnage, Tinubu Orders Security to Go After Killers Tells govs nation's peace, stability is collective responsibility Mutfwang: it’s disheartening losing lives to senseless, unprovoked attacks NGF, northern leaders, CAN, Abbas, Obi, Amnesty International, others mourn, condemn incident Police put death toll at over 79, observers say it’s over 140 Story on page 40

Governors Pay Tinubu Christmas Visit...

L-R: Front row- Governors Hyacinth Alia of Benue State; Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State; Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos; Hope Uzodimma of Imo State; Vice President Kashim Shettima; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq; Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed; Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, and Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, among others, during a visit to the president in Lagos…yesterday

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NEWS

Group News Editor: Goddy Egene Email: Goddy.egene@thisdaylive.com, 0803 350 6821, 0809 7777 322, 0807 401 0580

The Ibrus 2023 Christmas Get-Together...

L-R: Twins Sister of Mrs Ibru, Mrs Lucy Lawrence; Son of Late Olorogun Michael Ibru, Oboden Ibru; President/Co-Founder of Michael and Cecilia Ibru University (MCIU) Agbarha-Otor, Delta State, Dr. Mrs. Cecilia Ibru; and Otunba Kayode Abayomi at the Ibru 2023 Christmas Get-Together, in Lagos...on Monday

Olanipekun Writes AGF, Asks FG to Amicably Settle $5.8bn Mambilla Power Project with Sunrise Power Wale Igbintade A former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Chief Wole Olanipekun, has asked the federal government to seek an amicable settlement, and revive the execution of the $5.8 billion Mambilla hydroelectric power project by Sunrise Power Transmission Company of Nigeria Limited (SPTCL).

Olanipekun, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), in a letter written to the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Fagbemi, on behalf of the firm, urged the minister to carry out thorough investigation on the matter with a view to taking the needed steps, including, but not limited to, the total and global resolution of the matter.

The letter dated December 7, 2023, seen by THISDAY, urged the federal government to seek an amicable settlement of the matter and engage in negotiations with the firm to resolve the protracted litigation and potential national embarrassment.

In the letter titled, “Re: the ongoing arbitration between Sunrise Power and Transmission Company Limited and the Federal Government of Nigeria arising from the Mambilla Hydro-electric Power Project,” the senior lawyer stated that it was not fair that the dispute had stagnated the commencement and execution of the Mambilla project for many years.

The letter read, "In view of the

foregoing facts and circumstances, which have stagnated the commencement and execution of the Mambilla project for many years, we have been authorised by our client to seek an amicable settlement with the FGN to revive the execution of the Mambilla hydropower project.

"Our client is of the view that this administration has a rare opportunity to finally commence the execution of the Mambilla project for the benefit of all Nigerians. If the FGN is not favourably disposed to a financial pay-off of $600 million to our client as consummated above ($400 million Plus 10% Compound Interest), the FGN may wish to consider the following prayers: "Restitution of our client to its former status as the EPC Contractor under the November 2012 General Project Execution Agreement (GPEA) and, most importantly, as the exclusive focal content partner on the project.

“This would entail the restoration of our client’s full rights under the GPE Agreement and the signing of a revised EPC contract with our client and its Chinese Consortium partners for the sum of $5.8 billion (adjusted for US$ inflation from 2017 to date) as requested by our client under the arbitration.

"Payment of 25 per cent counterpart funds to the China EximBank and EPC (GPEA Contractors) Consortium for the execution of the Mambilla hydropower project; "Reimbursement of our client’s $200 million legal fees, expenses and

liabilities to the litigation funders without which there cannot be a closure to the subsisting arbitration.

"It is our client's patriotic position that there is the urgent need for the settlement of this legal dispute and other matters arising therefrom to pave the way for the involvement and commitment of both local and international stakeholders in the project.

“In this wise, may we urge the attorney-general to carry out a thorough investigation of this matter with a view to taking the needed steps, including but not limited to, the total and global resolution of this long drawn matter."

Olanipekun stated that as far back as 2003, it had, in consortium with North China Power Group, expressed interest in the construction of a 3960 MW Hydro-Electric Power Plant in Mambilla, Taraba State (Mambilla project), and subsequently submitted its proposal

and made presentations before the inter-ministerial Technical Committee set up by the FGN. He stated that after critical analysis of the proposals and presentations based on cost effectiveness, capability to carry out the job, understanding of the project and economic implications, recommended that the execution of the Mambilla project was awarded to it.

He added that upon the recommendation of the Technical Committee and the approval of then President Olusegun Obasanjo in November 2002, and in April 2003, the FMPS, vide a Letter of Award dated 22nd May 2003, signed by the then Minister of Power and Steel, Dr. Olu Agunloye, awarded a contract for the construction of a 3960 MW Hydro-Electric Power Plant in Mambilla, Taraba State, to Sunrise Power Transmission Company in consortium with

North China Power Group on a 30 - 490 years build, operate and transfer (BOT) basis.

Olanipekun added, "Our client accepted the terms of the federal government's offer vide a letter dated 26th May, 2003, and, forthwith, committed resources towards the preliminary stages of the project to the knowledge of the FGN. “In furtherance of the contract, our client executed a tripartite consortium agreement with North China Power Group and Sinohydro Corporation (the largest hydropower provider in China) for the execution of the project and similarly engaged sundry consultants (both local and international) to work on the modalities for the successful execution of the project."

He stated that when all efforts to get the federal government to honour the terms of the award failed, it engaged Chief Afe Babalola,

Air Strikes Destroy Six Illegal Refineries in Niger Delta Region Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

The Nigerian Air Force Headquarters said yesterday that air strikes conducted by its fighter planes destroyed six illegal refineries in the Niger Delta region.

It said the air interdiction was in continuation of efforts to rid the Niger Delta region of activities of oil thieves and oil pipeline vandals.

It said, in a statement that air strikes by the Air Component of Operation Delta Safe, on 23

December 2023, destroyed six illegal oil refining sites in Opu Arugbana in Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State.

The statement said the illegal sites were sighted clustered within a radius of about 80 metres at a

Tinubu Rejoices with Nasarawa Gov, Abdullahi Sule At 64 Celebrates budget minister, Atiku Bagudu on 62nd birthday

Deji Elumoye in Abuja President Bola Tinubu yesterday felicitated the Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule, as he marks his 64th birthday.

The president, in a release issued by his Media Adviser, Ajuri Ngelale, celebrated the accomplished engineer and businessman who superintended

over successful private enterprises like African Petroleum and Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc before investing his experience and expertise in the service of the people of Nasarawa State.

Tinubu commended the governor for his strides in Nasarawa, such as providing needed infrastructure, fostering peace and harmony among communities, and opening

who wrote a letter dated February 4, 2005, to the federal government through the office of the Hon. Minister of Power and Steel, stating that a legally binding and enforceable contract had been created between the firm (in consortium with the North China Power Group) and the Federal Government of Nigeria, by virtue of the letter of award dated May 22, 2003 and our client's acceptance dated 26th May 2003.

He added that rather than abide by the terms of its award, the federal government compounded matters when on May 28, 2007, the presidency unilaterally awarded a substantial part of the BOT contract to CGGC/CGC (a foreign consortium) without due process, thus, prompting his client to institute Suit No.: FHC/ABJ/CS/384/2007 at the Federal High Court, Abuja, in June 2007, claiming the sum of US$960 million in damages against the FGN.

up the state for investments.

He noted that the first oil drilling in the state was inaugurated under the leadership of Sule, an attestation to his penchant for pioneering ground-breaking efforts across sectors.

The president wished the governor good health and strength as he turned 64 and prayed that the Almighty

grant him more wisdom in his stewardship in Nasarawa State.

Also yesterday, Tinubu rejoiced with the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu on his 62nd birthday.

The president celebrated the consummate administrator and politician who served as Governor of Kebbi State from May 29, 2015 to May 29, 2023,

and as Senator representing Kebbi Central from 2009 to 2015.

President Tinubu commended the Ivy League-educated financial expert for the diligence, rigour, detail, passion, and experience he brings to bear in the discharge of his duties.

He wished the minister good health, longevity, and strength in the service of the nation.

location about six nautical miles south of Opu Arugbana.

"Having been confirmed to be active, authorisation was obtained to destroy the six sites thus discouraging the criminals from continuing with their acts of illegality.

"Despite the festive season, air operations against criminals in the Niger Delta and other parts of the country continue unabated", the statement signed by the Spokesman of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, who was newly promoted to the rank of Air Vice Marshal, said.

It said the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, who spent the Christmas day with troops in the North-east and currently in Katsina to fete troops of Operation Hadarin Daji, has commended the efforts of the air component commanders in all the theatres of operation while calling on them not to rest until criminal activities are reduced to the barest minimum.

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NEWS

Coronation’s 2023 Court Ordered Meeting...

L-R: Non-executive Director, Coronation Insurance Plc, Titilayo Osuntoki; Managing Director, Olamide Olajolo; Chairman, Mutiu Sunmonu; Company Secretary, Mary Agha; and Non-executive Director, PHOTO: SUNDAY ADIGUN Olusegun Ogbonnewo; during the company’s 2023 Court Ordered Meeting in Lagos ….recently

Telcos Raked in N3.86tn Revenue, Spent N2tn on Operating Cost in 2022 Emma Okonji

Telecoms operators which include Mobile Network Operators (GSM), Fixed Telephony Operators (Fixed/ Fixed Wireless), Internet Service Providers (ISPS), Value Added Service (VAS), Colloca-

tion and Infrastructure Sharing Operators and other operators generated a combined revenue of N3,856,026,156,380.29 in the financial year ended December 2022.

They however spent as much as N2,092,815,085,166.00 on operating cost and N785,771,028,960.36 on

capital expenditure (CAPEX) for the same financial year ended December 2022.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), which released the figures yesterday, on its website, said the figures were the collection, collation and analysis

of the 2022 year-end subscriber/ network report for the period January–December 2022 from questionnaires administered to the six categories of telecoms operators.

A breakdown of the figures as released by NCC, showed that Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) alone

Group Threatens to Protest Amendments to Procurement Act without Stakeholders, Citizens’ Input Michael Olugbode in Abuja The Network for the Actualisation of Social Growth and Viable Development (NEFGAD), a public procurement advocacy group has warned the federal government against seeking amendments to the Public Procurement Act 2007 without stakeholders and citizens’ input as provided by relevant laws and due legislative process.

The group threatened to mobilise citizens and stakeholders to protest any amendment that fall short of constitutional provi-

sions and necessary legislative guidelines.

The group issued the warning through a statement signed by its Head of Office, Mr. Omoniyi Akingunola, which was released to the media in Abuja, yesterday.

The group said it received from reliable authority that, “some elements within the system had perfected plans to hurriedly smuggle suffocating and self-serving provisions as amendments to the Act with timeline clandestinely allotted to the amendment processes with

blatant disregard to stakeholders and citizen’s input.”

The group further stated that the interested parties already have drafted manuscripts to be handedout to the constituted Public Procurement Act amendment committee and the National Assembly with no regard to citizens and stakeholders’ input.

The group however said it has nothing against the amendment of the Public Procurement Act which it said was long overdue, but insisted that the right and due process of amendment must be

Leaders Charged to Invest in Education for Speedy Devt Okon Bassey in Uyo Nigerian leaders have been told to invest more in education for the general development of the country.

Immediate past Chairman of Ini local government area of Akwa Ibom state, Isreal Idaisin made the call at a thanksgiving service, Carol of nine lessons and musical concerts held to mark a successful reign in office.

He described education as the livewire of any nation desirous of development, growth and progress, explaining that hence leaders at all levels of governance must prioritise it for the benefit of the people.

The former council chairman urged youths to embrace education to enable them have a big chance

to make a difference in their lives and society at large.

He averred: "I took it as a challenge to establish a primary school in my community which hitherto had none, forcing young children to trek for several kilometres daily in search of basic education.

"The school is free for all and I still pay the teachers from my personal resources while awaiting government official taking over of the school, that is one of my personal commitments because of the importance I attach to education. “ I also encourage our people in tertiary institutions through periodic payment of bursary" While thanking God for a successful tenure as council chairman after two terms in office, Idaisin said

he did his best to deliver dividends of democracy across the length and breath of his council area and was always conscious of his actions to avoid being disgraced out of office. " I did my best in office as I see my elevation as divine, whatever has a beginning must have an end. My greatest fear was to be disgraced out of office as chairman and I thank Almighty God that I have landed well,” he added.

In his exhortation, the Methodist Archbishop of Port Harcourt, Most Rev. Emmanuel Udofia charged politicians and leaders to show exemplary leadership which will ensure that their activities outlive their earthly sojourn.

He extolled the sterling leadership qualities of Idaisin, describing him as a grassroots leader.

followed as stated in the Nigerian constitution.

This due process, it said, includes citizens and stakeholders’ engagement and input, through a call for memoranda and public hearing.

The group frowned at a situation whereby for over a month, the only information in the public regarding proposed amendment to such an important law on public procurement was the inauguration of selected amendment committee.

Akingunola said public procurement is the life wire of government and the main channel through which governments serve the people and constitutes over 90 per cent of entire government spending, hence any legal framework around its operations must seek the input of people it intends to serve.

generated N3,329,241,000,000.00 revenue, with an operating cost of N1,996,659,000,000.00, and CAPEX of N718,350,570,000.00.

Fixed Wired Operators generated N385,071,346.00.00, with an operating cost of N841,738,077.00 and CAPEX of N61,326,000.00.

Also, internet service providers generated N92,079,251,596.26 revenue, with operating cost of N71,200,884,440.55 and CAPEX of N5,243,381,710.22. It also showed that Value Added Service Providers generated N40,742,900,243.50 revenue, with an operating cost of N14,914,146,598.00 and CAPEX of N417, 336,278.14.

In the same vein, collocation and infrastructure service providers generated N3,294,738,734.59 revenue with an operating cost of N3,183,579,969.37 and CAPEX of N326,949,832.00.

Other telecoms operators combined, generated N5,596,919,805.94 revenue, with an operating cost of N4 6,015,736,081.20 and CAPEX of N524,127,418.14.

Quoting a source from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the NCC report stated that capital inflow (foreign direct investment) into the Nigerian telecoms industry in 2022, was approximately $399,905,531.38, as against $753,044,446.35 2021, while

telecoms industry contribution to the Nigerian Gross Domestic Products increased from 12.61 per cent in the Q4 2021 to 13.55 per cent in the Q4 2022.

According to the report, the market share of mobile operators were analysed through the breakdown of each operator’s subscription: MTN; Glo; Airtel and EMTS each recording 89,016,678; 60,290,012; 60,065,904 and 12,852,706 subscribers respectively as at December 2022.

The report further explained that MTN; Glo; Airtel and EMTS, which operates as 9mobile, had 40.06 per cent market share; 27.13 per cent market share; 27.03 per cent market share and 5.78 per cent share of the mobile GSM market respectively of the mobile GSM market segment.

The NCC report further explained that the total prepaid mobile voice subscriptions increased from 189,509,350 in December, 2021 to 215,345,361 in December, 2022 indicating an increase of 13.63 per cent in prepaid mobile voice subscriptions, while postpaid mobile voice subscriptions increased from 5,848,163 in December, 2021 to 7,129,211 as at December, 2022 indicating an increase of 21.9 per cent growth in postpaid mobile voice subscriptions as at year end 2022.

Traders Count Losses as Midnight Inferno Razes Shops in Kano Market Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano A midnight fire outbreak has thrown hundreds of traders who lost their properties worth millions of naira at Gwarzo Market in in Kano State into a mourning mood.

The affected traders who are now counting their losses were seen crying and lamenting as most of them confessed to having lost their source livelihood to the fire incident.

One of the victims, Dayyabu Bala, a trader who lost busi-

ness properties worth over N5 million to the inferno, called on the state and federal governments and wealthy individuals to come to their aid to alleviate their suffering.

The zonal information officer of Gwarzo local government Rabiu Khalil said, amongst the early sympathisers was the member representing Gwarzo Federal Constituency Hon. Abdullahi Babangandu, who donated N500,000 to the victims after visiting the scene.

Confirming the incident, the spokesman of the Kano State Fire Service, Saminu Sa'id, said the fire started at midnight last Sunday and it took their men up to Monday morning before it was finally quenched.

According to him, dozens of shops were completely razed by the inferno, while properties worth millions of naira were destroyed, even though there was no injury or loss of lives during the incident.

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DBN AWARD...

L-R: DBN Head, Strategy and Policy, Jeremy Dan-Okayi; Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Tony Okpanachi; World Bank Representative, Sophie Dong; DBN Chairman, Board of Directors, Dr. Shehu Yahaya, and Head Sustainability, Lolade Awogbade, receiving the prize at the recently held COP28 in Dubai after the bank won in the first category for its work on SDG Goal 8 "Decent Work and Economic Growth"

Nigeria May Beat 2030 Global Target for HIV Eradication, Says NACA

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

As the federal government mobilises efforts to address health challenges, the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has expressed optimism that the country may well be on the way to ending the spread of HIV transmission in Nigeria by 2025.

NACA had put the number of persons living with HIV-AIDS that are currently on treatment at 1.8 million.

As part of a new funding strategy, NACA in collaboration with the Nigerian Business Coalition Against AIDS (NiBUCAA) recently launched a sixty-two billion Naira private sector-driven HIV/AIDS Trust Fund of Nigeria.

While giving yearly update on the activities of NACA, the Director General of the agency Dr. Aliyu Gambo, said a review and validation exercise conducted recently on the number of persons on treatment for HIV AIDS showed that the country was closer to achieving

the 2030 set target.

He said: "We are actually moving closer to what we had estimated. We are seeing ourselves getting closer to the bus stop that countries are expected to reach in the year 2030.

So we are very hopeful that by the year 2025, we will be able to reach that bus stop five years earlier than the year 2030".

Meanwhile, the agency has admonished citizens to exhibit responsible sexual behavior during the festive season A statement by the Head, Public Relations and Protocol of NACA, Toyin Aderibigbe, reminded the public of the importance of responsible and safe sexual behavior to prevent the spread of HIV and other Sexually

Transmitted Infections (STIs).

She said the Director General of NACA had cautioned that engaging in unsafe and unclean sexual activities could significantly heighten the risk of HIV transmission and other STIs. "The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, and as we come together with loved ones, it

is paramount that we prioritise our health and well-being.

"As we celebrate this festive season, let us make responsible choices in our intimate lives. By adopting and advocating for responsible sexual practices, we can collectively contribute to a healthier and happier community,” he said.

Aliyu added, “Abstinence,

maintaining faithfulness to your partner, and consistently using condoms are among the most effective measures to prevent the transmission of these infections."

The DG said NACA remained steadfast in its commitment to raising awareness and promoting preventive measures that will safeguard public health.

CSO Commends Bello for Peaceful Co-existence in Kogi Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

The Chief Executive Officer, Connected Development, a Civil Society Organisation (CSO), Hamzat Lawal, has commended the Kogi State government under the leadership of Governor Yahaya Bello for ensuring that the people of the state despite their diverse ethnic groups and religion are able to live peacefully.

Lawal spoke when he paid a visit to the Ohimegye Igu of

Koton-Karfe Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Abdulrazak Isah-Koto in Kogi local government area of the state as part of his post election advocacy visit to the kingdom.

He said the traditional leaders in Kogi state have roles to play to complement the effort of the governor through constant preaching of peace and the need for people to live a life devoid of crises in order to enjoy the dividends of democracy.

"Knowing full well that you

are first class king and a peaceful traditional ruler which you demonstrated during the last governorship election in your domain , you still have a role to play in ensuring that the existing peace in your kingdom continue.

"In the last off-cycle governorship election the people of KotonKarfe came out en-mass to cast their ballot peacefully and this happened through your continuous sensitisation and encouragement you gave to your people.

"In the last eight years, Kogi state has enjoyed relative peace and I know the role you played working tirelessly with Governor Yahaya Bello to achieve the feat for the people of your kingdom.

"As the governor-elect takes over the leadership of the state on January 27 , 2023 it is expedient that we join hands to support the new government for the progress of the state," he said.

Responding, the traditional ruler said he had heard much about

the visiting civil society person and expressed confidence that the new administration will be successful.

The royal father thanked him for demonstrating love for the community through the empowerment, adding that the people would continue to pray for him and the government.

Highlight of the visit was the presentation of 100 vulnerable people in Kogi local government area with N5,000 each.

Incessant Cult Killings: Police in Edo Bago: Minna Airport Be Ready for Airlift Lament Loss of Personnel, Others Will of Pilgrims Next Year

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

The Edo State Police Command yesterday reacted to the loss of one of its officers to the fight against cultism in the state.

In the last two weeks, there had been series of killings by suspected rival cult groups within the Benin metropolis.

Recall that some persons were killed on the Christmas Eve in renewed cult crashes between suspected Eiye and Black axe confraternities.

Those killed include: Hilary Odia, a popular radio presenter; a vigilante commander and a police inspector said to have been killed by his colleague, a police sergeant.

A statement by the spokes-

person of the Edo State Police Command, Chidi Nwabuzor, which was made available to journalists in Benin City, said the command was doing everything within its means to restore peace and order.

Nwabuzor also said the Police Commissioner, Edo State, Mohammed Dankwara was appealing to the people of Edo state to remain calm and go about their Christmas celebration, assuring the safety of lives and property.

"Edo state police command wishes to inform the general public, particularly the good people of Edo state that the command is aware of the secret cult fighting and the killings in the state mostly in the Benin metropolis in the

recent times that took the lives of innocent citizens particularly that of Mr Hillary Nosa Odia, a staff of Independent Television and Radio, Benin City.

"The command is sincerely and vigorously fighting this crime and wishes to put it to an end for the state to be peaceful for all. Its efforts in fighting against secret cult members or to stop the killings are shown in the loss of one of its personnel during operation in the Ugbowo axis on the 24th of December, 2023. “ Nevertheless, a sizeable number of arrests of the secret cult members of various cult groups have been made in different locations in the state and will soon be charged to

court for prosecution.

"In view of the above, CP Mohammed Adamu Dankwara, the Commissioner of Police Edo State, appeals to the good people of Edo State remain calm and go about with their Christmas celebration. “ He reiterates the command's commitments and readiness of officers and men to ensure the safety of the lives and property of the citizenry and residents of Edo State during this yuletide period.

“He, however, solicits the citizens' participation in giving out information to the police as modern and civilised policing entails citizenship and community policing," the statement concluded.

Laleye Dipo in Minna The Niger state Governor, Mohammed Bago, yesterday said that the ongoing reconstruction of the Minna airport will be completed and ready for the airlift of pilgrims to Mecca for next year's holy pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.

Speaking during an inspection of the project, the governor expressed satisfaction with the job so far done, but asked the contractor to double the pace of work.

Bago urged the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to carry out the design and construction of an international terminal at the airport to enable it commence international commercial and cargo

transportation as well as facility for exporting agricultural produce.

The Niger state government in collaboration with FAAN had carried out the construction of the previously abandoned hajj terminal to facilitate effective and timely hajj operations.

The government and FAAN had also carried out major repairs on the airports runway for smooth take off and landing of aircrafts.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Bologi Ibrahim, said when completed, the Minna international airport will serve as an alternative to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, and also be "a feasible hangar for private jets".

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politics

Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com (08033025611 SMS ONLY)

APC’s Challenges and Triumphs in 2023

2023 appears a turbulent year for the All Progressives Congress at the end of which it emerge victorious even though with scars. However, the national leadership of Dr. Abdulahi Ganduje, has been able to restore peace and inject life into the party. Adedayo Akinwale writes.

E

vents leading to the 2023 general election within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) did not only portray a party in crisis but a party that was seriously fragmented. The reason was not far-fetched, the general election and another period of transition was in the offing.

Prior to the presidential poll, Nigerians were already groaning over the scarcity of petroleum products. While the battle against the scarcity of fuel was still on, the Naira redesign policy was already being implemented forcing Nigerians to keep vigil at ATM points.

On March 1, 2023, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared the presidential candidate of APC, Bola Tinubu, as the president-elect. He polled 8,794,726 votes to win the 2023 presidential election. The inability of the opposition parties to work together led to Tinubu’s victory.

Following Tinubu’s ele and conclusion of the National Assembly election, the race for the election of the principal and presiding officersbof the legislative arm took the centre stage. After the meeting between Tinubu and the leadership of the party led by the former National Chairman, Senator Abdulahi Adamu, a zoning template for the national Assembly principal officers was released.

Instead of the party’s leadership working in sync with Tinubu as the President-elect to nominate candidates for the leadership of the 10th NationalAssembly,Adamu chose to oppose and undermine the president-elect.

For instance, on May 23, 2023, Adamu told one of the House Speakership aspirants and the consensus candidate of the party, Hon. Tajudden Abbas, not to parade himself as the

Ganduje Speaker of the 10th Assembly until he’s elected by the members on June 13th.

He insisted that the leadership of the party was still consulting on the recently released zoning template that was then causing acrimony in the party.

According to him: “I want to make one correction so that we will not be misrepresented. A number of you have referred to Hon. Abbas as the speaker. Please, please he is one of the aspirants. He will become a speaker on the day of proclamation. The laws guiding that office are very clear, he will earn that on the day of proclamation by the president and Commander-inChief of the 10th National Assembly.

“The Clerk to the National Assembly will conduct the election, there is no option other than the election. When he comes out of that election and they raise his hand and when he is sworn in as the Speaker, that nomenclature becomes most appropriate”.

On July 4th, Adamu said the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party had no hand in the emergence of Senator Godswill Akpabio as the Senate President and the emergence of Abbas as the Speaker of the House Representatives, as well as other Principal Officers. “...I am just hearing a rumour now from the online media that there have been some announcements in the Senate and House of Representatives. The national headquarters of the party of the NWC has not given any such information or communicated about the choice of offices. And until we formally resolve and communicate with them in writing which is the norm and practice, it is not our intention to break away from traditions. So whatever announcement is done either the President of the Senate, Deputy Senate President, Speaker or Deputy Speaker, is not from this Secretariat.”

When the President appeared to have heard enough, on July 16th, Adamu and the Secretary, Senator Iyiola Omisore, resigned their positions.

Sources said they tendered their resignations following an alleged directive of Tinubu, who could no longer tolerate their excesses.

Aside from his excesses that the President frowned at, other members of the National Working Committee (NWC) also frowned at Adamu’s leadership style.

After the successful ouster of both Adamu and omisore, Tinubu anointed the immediate past governor of Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi

Ganduje for the national chairmanship position.

Expectedly, Tinubu’s decision to anoint Ganduje for the position of national chairman altered the zoning arrangement of positions of national officers within the ruling party.

In no time, aggrieved party members especially from the North Central were already up in arms to ensure the position was not taken away from the zone.

They argued that it was insensitive to take the position of national chairman of the party to the North-west that already has the position of Deputy Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives.

Despite stiff opposition to the choice of Ganduje, Tinubu stuck to his gun and imposed the former governor on the party.

Those against the choice easily found an ally in the former National Vice Chairman, NorthWest, of the party, Dr. Salihu Lukman, who described the choice of Ganduje as insensitive.

He said: “The related moral question is the choice of Ganduje. Sincerely, it simply means that we don’t attach any importance to the party if, with all the corruption allegations against Ganduje, we find him about the only one in the North West to be recommended.

“Perhaps, it needs to be stated without equivocation or fear of contradiction that if leaders of the North West are asked to nominate five people for consideration to serve in the capacity of the national chairman of APC, I am confident that Ganduje will not be one of the five nominees.

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

Akume: Intrepid Politician and Adept Stabiliser

Sufuyan Ojeifo writes about the political trajectory of consumate politician and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, as he clocks 70.

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e are about the time of the year-December 27- when family members, associates and loyalists roll out the drums in festivities to honour a man whose public service engagements and political voyage have positively impacted the destinies of men and women. For those who have been beneficiaries of the large heartedness, expansive and expressive good nature, generous spirit, and sense of fairness of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, attaining the significant and Biblical three scores and ten years, in a clime where life expectancy for men is 52.89 years as of 2020 (World Bank report), is worth celebrating.

The contextual signification of the celebration of the man derives from his character portrayal as a public servant par excellence, strategic mobiliser, and taciturn afficionado of Benue politics, largely referred to by many of his loyalists as the “Just George”.

I had once admitted that this unique moniker had, at a recent intersection, become for me a subject for deconstruction. At the end of the somewhat difficult enterprise, I had resolved to look at him, more advisedly, from either of two prisms, to wit: from the prism of his proclivity and capacity for being fair in all his dealings with others; or from the prism of his simplicity, relating with all and sundry without airs-and this is very natural.

The virtues of fairness and simplicity would appear to have been the hallmarks and bulwarks of Akume’s relevance in the politics of Benue, which he plays with so much sagacity within the context of national politics. In demonstration of political wisdom, the Just George has characteristically been open to, and accommodating of the interests of his loyalists and associates.

Altruistic, there are no limits to his eleemosynary acts. He simply lives for others. It is not that he has a war chest. Not at all. What he enjoys is a socio-economic and political bank

Akume of goodwill that he draws from at different times.

Indeed, a success story of his entry into and participation in politics from a civil service background in Benue State, where he retired as a Permanent Secretary, finds anchorage on his inimitable trust capital.

As governor of Benue State for eight years from 1999 to 2007, he demonstrated fidelity to the social contract.

He left behind the imprimatur of his remarkable administration and management of public finance in the governance architecture of the state.

A man of great equanimity, sedate but highly fecund, and with penetrating brilliance to boot, the Just George is not your run-of-the-mill politician. He is imbued with gravitas and combines it with panache, which he deploys in consummating political processes and ancillary activities.

Like a journalist, he knows something about everything and everything about something. He is especially

at home when the subject matters are Benue politics and governance at all levels. He can drive conversation around wide-ranging issues.

Avuncular in his disposition, the Just George straddles the political terrain of Benue State, and his positive effects draw people closer to him. That explains why he has been able to maintain a productive and result-achieving political structure in Benue State since leaving office as governor.

As he turns another year around the sun on December 27, it is apposite to celebrate an outstanding personality who completes a significant cosmic course. Of course, there is even more reason for genuine gratitude and merriment.

Although, this celebrator, a down-to-earth, uncommon thinker, cares little for mundane gaiety, the biological and political families have set out to celebrate him.

But, defined by his sheer kinetic energy and depth, Akume enjoys pushing new frontiers.

These ingrained traits remain the central depiction of an intrepid politician, adept stabiliser; and, inimitable administrative and governance guru.

Incidentally, beyond the algorithmic calculations that go into farming out appointments in the Nigerian political space, certain appointive positions demand utmost circumspection because its occupants represent key drivers of the appointer, in this case, the President’s broad governance vision.

The office of the SGF is considered the engine room of the executive arm of the federal government because of the enormity of the functions and responsibilities associated with it. In effect, when President Bola Tinubu, a consummate administrator and politician himself, picked Akume for the SGF’s position, it clearly was not a lightly taken decision.

Akume, indisputably a nimble, visionary political strategist who has remained in power since 1999, has his job cut out for him as SGF, unlike in his last role as minister of special duties

and intergovernmental affairs under former President Buhari, where little was known about his official duties, hindering an objective and fair assessment of his performance in government.

By all relevant, conventional parameters, Akume is in no way a rookie in the political terrain, for he has been in power in one form or another, either by appointment or election, since Nigeria returned to civil rule in 1999.

A former civil servant, Akume is both a circumspect political leader and a pragmatic warrior, all rolled into one, given his numerous political conquests and far fewer losses.

For over two decades, he has consistently won several political battles as one of the few durable power brokers in the North-Central state. He also has some proud scars, which testify to his tough engagements during his peregrination as a political operator at the subnational and national levels. But vintage Akume always finds a way to prominence again whenever he suffers a setback.

He was elected governor of Benue State in 1999 on the platform of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), where he was a foundation member. Before his ascension to the top political job in the state, he had previously worked as a civil servant, rising to the top of his career as permanent secretary before venturing into the challenging quicksand of politics.

He won his re-election as governor in 2003 on the same party’s ticket and completed his second term in office in 2007. At the end of his tenure, he facilitated the emergence of his successor, Hon Gabriel Suswam, who was then a member of the House of Representatives, while he joined the Senate to represent Benue Northwest, on the platform of the PDP. -Ojeifo writes from Abuja NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

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ONE BIRTHDAY AND A GLOBAL HOLIDAY

See page 25

POWERS OF SMALL IDEAS

Ideas, seemingly small, are powerful, writes OKELLO OCULI

See page 25 EDITORIAL

DEATH IN THE ELEVATOR

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www.thisdaylive.com

JIMOH IBRAHIM pays tribute to the Lord Jesus Christ!

Wednesday December 27, 2023 Vol 27. No 10484

TUNDE OLUSUNLE pays tribute to George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation

AKUME: BUREAUCRAT, GOVERNOR, SENATOR, MINISTER, SCRIBE AT 70!

Ahead of the proclamation of the "Eighth Senate" of the National Assembly of the Federal Republic, and the election of its leadership, the name of George Akume was a recurring decimal. He ticked the boxes, meeting all the criteria laid out for a President of the Senate for that season. He was very highly favoured to clinch the top job. Among other considerations, he is from the North Central geopolitical zone to which the office was zoned. Secondly, he was a ranking Senator, having been first elected to represent Benue North West, in 2007 and reelected in 2015 and subsequently in 2019, respectively. Akume indeed previously served for two terms as Governor of his state, Benue, between 1999 and 2007. This implied he had substantial grounding in governance, policy and statecraft. He was indeed a career bureaucrat who rose to the very peak of his calling before contesting for public office.

Akume and I developed a robust relationship during his years as governor which has been sustained up till the present. Did I hear someone re-echo the truism that cultivating and sustaining relationships is second nature for self-confident, amiable and questing journalists?

I was a close aide of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, during which I held a number of critical briefs. I was something of a regular fixture not only in the president's local engagements, but also his official movements around the country and on the global scene. Elsewhere, I've been described as a "multitasking professional" which would suggest that I get to manage many schedules and assignments at the same time. I was equally very close to Akume's deputy at the time, Ogirri Ajene, the down-to-earth, jolly blue-blood from Idoma land, who sadly passed about a decade ago.

My very good friend and brother of over four decades beginning from our years in the classroom in the University of Ilorin, Tivlumun Gabriel Nyitse, was also prominent in the Benue State bureaucracy. He subsequently became a notable figure in the politics of the state. First, he rose to the position of managing director and chief executive of the stateowned newspapers *The Voice.* He was later appointed Permanent Secretary by Akume and functioned variously in the Office of the Secretary to the State Government and the Ministry of Information and Culture, respectively, under Akume's leadership. Such was my interconnectedness with the Benue system, which has endured till this time.

In the weeks preceding the proclamation of the "Eighth Senate," Akume's Maitama, Abuja home, became a *Mecca* for the political class.

There was a virtual round-the-clock streaming in and out by fellow politicians, friends and associates, who bought into the prospects of an Akume senate presidency. Quite a number of latter day top functionaries in the Muhammadu Buhari presidency including subsequent members of the Federal Executive Council, (FEC), took their places in his waiting

room, bidding their time in the listless comings and goings, those days. The otherwise spacious premises of Akume's home, "shrank," literally, overwhelmed by the sudden invasion of political supporters and admirers alike. His kitchen relocated to an external annex to cope with the culinary demands of the ever surging human traffic.

A few of us, media friends of Akume, thought of how best to impact the project.

We constituted ourselves into an informal "support group." We reasoned among other things, that Akume needed heightened media visibility so as to properly position him for the coming "battle." We wrote essays and articles which were accorded wide ventilation in the mainstream and online press. We followed up on his consultations, engagements and meetings across the country in that quest, and regularly put out new stories. The "rapid response" component of the team replied real-time to media distortions and jaundiced representations of our "candidate." It was an amazed and appreciative Akume who woke up each day to his file of national dailies to see the good job done on him by volunteers who were sold on his aspiration.

Akume, unfortunately, didn't make it to the senate presidency. As we say, the rest is history. Bukola Saraki his colleague who won the contest, assigned him the chairmanship of the Senate Committee on the Nigerian Army.

In the Seventh Senate, Akume was Minority Leader between 2011 and 2015. That was when the Peoples' Democratic Party, (PDP), dominated the executive and legislative arms of government, under the superintendence of President Goodluck Jonathan. He had previously chaired important committees in the upper legislature and served in a broad spectrum of other organs of the parliament. He became something of a repository of legislative experience. Such systemic entrenchment is imperative for the growth and development of democratic structures in a country notorious for its scant attention for the preservation of institutional memory.

The former Benue chief executive did not make it in his attempt to return to the Senate for a fourth term in 2019. The experiences he had garnered over time, however, recommended him for appointment as Minister for Special Duties and Inter-governmental Affairs by former President Buhari. This consecrated him as a Member of the FEC, where he was in a position to canvass for attention for his home state, to complement the efforts of the state government. Akume's critics despised his schedule describing it as a "no job" ministry.

He was, however, resolved to prove doubters wrong. Whereas the Buhari administration never hosted one singular ceremony to recognise deserving Nigerians with national honours all through its first term, it is credit to Akume's hard work that two such events were hosted within 12 months.

Friday June 2, 2023, Akume was appointed Secretary to the Government of the Federation, (SGF), by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. On Wednesday June 7, 2023, he was sworn-in as Nigeria's 21st occupant of that office which is easily the very heart of federal governance.

A consummate public servant, charismatic politician and inimitable legislator, George Akume is 70 today, Wednesday, December 27, 2023, this season of the yuletide. He obtained a bachelors degree in sociology and a masters in labour relations, both from the University of Ibadan, (UI), Nigeria's premier university.

In the early days of his public service career, he was local government secretary and later, chairman, in his home state, Benue.

He was subsequently Director of Protocol in Government House, Makurdi, and would go on to obtain a leave-of-absence to support the former Chairman of the Peoples' Democratic Party, (PDP), Iyorchia Ayu, during his stint as President of the Senate and Minister of Education respectively, between 1992 and 1995.

Those were the years of the former military President Ibrahim Babangida's unending tinkering with the colour, texture and character of the nation's democracy. Akume's leave-of-absence subsisted into the early years of the rulership of General Sani Abacha who retained major players in the aborted Third Republic including Ayu his principal at the time, in his scheme. He returned to the employ of the Benue State Civil Service therefore, from where he retired as Permanent Secretary, to contest for the governorship in 1998.

Akume was governor of Benue State for two terms of four years each, between 1999 and 2007, on the platform of the PDP. He was famous for prioritising workers' welfare, against the backdrop of his personal, handson acquaintance with the tides and traditions in the public service. He was succeeded by Gabriel Suswam in 2007, even as he proceeded to the Senate where he selflessly represented Benue North-West.

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

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JIMOH IBRAHIM pays tribute to the Lord Jesus Christ!

ONE BIRTHDAY AND A GLOBAL HOLIDAY

Yes, let’s keep empiricism for a while.

Those who think there is no God can now tell from the events of 25th December (The common Christian traditional birthdate of Jesus, a date first asserted officially by Pope Julius I in 350 AD) every year how the birthday of the son of the creator, our Lord Jesus Christ, the entire world was shut down for the peace of celebration and not war. What can be more empirical, and if Jesus was not born on that day, why are you observing the holiday? Our relationships, peace of mind, and, ultimately, eternal destiny. The Bible claims to be God’s inspired Word and repeatedly declares its message is valid—without any error. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that each one of us determines for ourselves whether the Bible is indeed the Word of God. What cannot be disputed remains in the celebration of the 25th of December for everyone observing the holiday and celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, exchanging gifts, eating the best food, and observing prayers. It is the only day of the year we all take to happiness in his remembrance. While law courts are closed, lawmakers close chambers. Even Presidents went on holiday!

A big fear of living after death is that we will give an account to God about how we responded to Jesus Christ’s offer of salvation through His death on the Cross. On the other hand, if the Bible is not true and God does not exist, then we are free to live as we please. If God does not exist, we will solely experience the consequences of our choices. The philosophy of “eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die” is a logical response if there is no God and the universe has no purpose. Without God, we are free to live as we please. But the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom, and this explains the apprehension of fear of going to heal and the need to be kind to humanity as we observe on 25th December every year celebrating the birth of Jesus.

Yes, for those still waiting for God to speak to them directly as evidence of God revealing himself to humanity, don’t forget that it is impossible for any human, or even Satan, to predict future events with precise accuracy, for the Bible said. “Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that

are not yet done, saying, my counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure” (Isaiah 46:9–10). The evidence from hundreds of fulfilled prophecies regarding the life and death of Jesus Christ provides the most substantial and evident proof of the Bible’s divine inspiration. A few examples cited by the signature of God include the undisputed evidence that The Bible’s primary purpose is to reveal God’s plan of salvation. However, whenever Scripture deals with history, archaeology, nature, medicine, or science, it reveals advanced knowledge that is true and verifiable. Such biblical statements were first recorded far in advance of the knowledge available during the time of the original.

Human writers believe that the Bible’s wisdom, knowledge, and ethics proclaim its supernatural origin to anyone seeking answers to life’s most profound questions.

The wisest people of all cultures and times are committed to its truths. And that the Scriptures contain advanced medical and sanitation knowledge from thousands of years ago. This medical knowledge has saved countless lives. In addition, its lifesaving commands still prove their worth today, as the Bible remains living proof. Again, don’t forget that Historians of the ancient world and recent archaeological finds confirm the names of kings and kingdoms and the dates of wars and mass migrations mentioned in the Bible. Recent breakthroughs in astronomy, physics, and medical science have shown that God’s Word is accurate, and there is no evidence to the contrary.

The holiday is here, and as we celebrate the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ, it is essential to reflect on the lessons of the celebration on days like this, as the gap is gradually closing and the reality that Jesus will soon be here.

There is no escape but a sound reward for human kindness. I do know that there is no number of sins here that can justify your missing heaven. It is my assurance that you will make it.

I wish you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year in advance!

Ibrahim holds a Doctorate in Management Science from the University of Cambridge and another Doctorate in Modern War Studies from the University of Buckingham in the United Kingdom. He is the Senator representing Ondo South at the Nigerian Senate.

Ideas, seemingly small, are powerful, writes OKELLO OCULI

POWERS OF SMALL IDEAS The first time I visited the State of Illinois in the United States of America was to be hosted by the Mayor of a small town known as ‘’PARIS’’. His son was leaving home to travel to the State of New Mexico to start a home with his newly married wife. The name of the town was a surprise to me since the only PARIS we saw in the media was the capital of FRANCE. I was informed that as a predominantly immigrant country, its arrivals yearned to remember where they came from.

When my own migration ended at Stanford University, a struggle over naming places had flared up. The African-American community wanted to have the name of PALO ALTO changed to ‘’NAIROBI’’. This was the era of ‘’BLACK POWER’’ political movement. The European immigrants rose up in resistance against the importation of a piece of Africa – the capital of newly independent KENYA – brought to hug them. Kenya’s UHURU (independence) had been won by a highly publicised war for liberation known as ‘’MAU MAU’’. In PALO ALTO in faraway California, the struggle was over this historical echo.

As a member of a Committee chaired by Y.K.LULE, the ‘’Principal/Vice Chancelor) of Makerere College of the University of East Africa, this little politics of changing names erupted. Our team of student politicians led by AKIIKI MUJAJU, demanded changes in names of several halls of residence for students. Mr. NEW, a reformer in the history of England’s Civil Service, lost his position to KWAME NKRUMAH. A new dormitory being built for female students would pioneer the motherhood toga of ‘’AFRICA HALL’’. A new dormitory donated by the America Government was adorned with the politically cheeky name of ‘’LUMUMBA HALL’’. The assassination of PATRICE LUMUMBA, the first Prime Minister of newly independent Congo, was known to have been directed by America’s President Dwight Eisenhower.

We felt triumphant over the victory of the little war for decolonisation of our campus.

It never occurred to me that the positive power of “Paris, Illinois’’ and the Palo AltoNairobi contest were at play here.

A train journey by Queen Elizabeth from her palace to a small village in her Kingdom was also a little idea in public affairs. When she arrived she was met by excited leading leaders of that village. The ‘’Mayor’’ was dressed in a quaint attire.

The Queen inspected projects undertaken by the village government; achievements not covered in highbrow newspapers and broadcast media. This was key to the legitimacy of government in Her realm and for the popularity of the Monarchy.

In African politics, Leopold Sedar Senghor, a Christian from the small SERER ethnic group, built his support by Muslim religious leaders of the majority WOLOF people by sleeping under moonlight harmattan nights inside villages. He insured his stay in power against military coups incited by French troops through the big ideas of allowing French companies

to control import and export trade, as well as, government contracts. But the little idea of sleeping under village moonlight to talk politics with villagers earned him votes in elections.

A Chinese television documentary showed the little idea of thousands of people fabricating parts of industries and feeding fires in foundries. Those people felt and knew that they were literally building their country.

Dr. John Bryant was thrilled by Mao Zedung directing 14 million people to jump into rivers to dig out SNAILS from river banks. The worm that breeds inside snails enters the human skin and travels to the liver. Its human host starts urinating blood and becomes emaciated. Mao was avoiding spending millions of foreign currencies to purchase chemical drugs for curing victims of Systosomiasis.

To end medical and agricultural damage by RATS, Chairman Mao directed Communist Party members to come to branch meetings with at least ONE TAIL borrowed from a

RAT. This little idea saved CHINA from accumulating DEBTS for funds borrowed from traders known as ‘’DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS’’.

President Macky Sall told his potential successor, Mr BA, to give jobs to unemployed youths. In Zaria, Kaduna State, nearly two hundred youths constructed a new road by clearing bushes and digging up soil.

Drummers and singers cheered diggers whose bodies shone with sunlight on sweat. Elders of the community knew that this little idea predated giant caterpillars and bulldozers brought by contractors who are paid billions of Naira.

In 2000 my former Gambian flatmate at UW Madison hosted me in Maryland. His wife, a banker, drove off at 6.A.M. to park her car at an assembly site and joined a bus which took them to K Street near the World Bank. She arrived at work free from traffic jam fatigue. The power of a little idea was at work here.

Prof Oculi writes from Abuja

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EDITORIAL

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

B

DEATH IN THE ELEVATOR Regulatory agencies should be adept at their responsibility

accidents happened in Lagos, a similar one occurred arely three months after the painful in India where a 73-year- old lady died in an elevator death of a medical doctor in Lagos, an car free fall at the Paras Tierea building. The lady 18-year-old student of Lagos State Skills reportedly took the lift at the eighth floor before the Acquisition Centre Technical School, car developed a fault. She was accessed 45 minutes Egan, has lost his life to elevator accident later but she did not make it. to the same cause. The death occurred However, the public concern is that many of the at a construction site in Ikoyi where the intern was disasters are preventable. Most of the times we do observing his Industrial Training programme. He was things so poorly. Safety demands more than good trapped in the lift shafts overnight without anyone engineering. It takes independent regulation, and a knowing. With no safety system in place, his bruised meticulous, self-critical safety culture that endlessly and lifeless body was discovered the following searches for risks, according to most experts. At morning, eliciting shock and grief. least, global best practices demand that elevators are The circumstances of the death of Dr Vware Diaso, regularly maintained and repaired. The accident that also an intern, last August at the General Hospital, claimed Vware Diaso at Odan sparked an outrage Odan, Lagos, were slightly different. But both serve because the hospital as a poignant reminder management ignored of the importance of for a long while earlier equipment maintenance It is necessary for the various regulatory agencies and disaster complaints about the and stringent safety faulty elevator.

And also measures. The young management bodies to collaborate and embark on a massive public damning, the emergency lady was riding in the response is typically enlightenment on safety regulations, dangers of non-compliance and elevator in the staff Nigerian, languid, and quarters of the hospital basic steps to take in the event of an untoward occurrence with everything in short which later lost control supply, to save lives, and tumbled down from including blood.

T H I S D AY the ninth floor. She was reportedly alive for over an It is unfortunate that generally, regulatory EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU hour after the collapse of the machine. When she was DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE authorities in our country are more reactive than eventually rescued and rushed to the emergency ward MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO proactive. They prefer to arrest a criminal rather than of the hospital the non-availability of blood allegedly DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU prevent the commission of a crime. Even the reactive contributed to her death.

CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI approach to enforcement is fraught with unbearable EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN Elevators do malfunction everywhere, in homes, inefficiency given response time to distress calls. The THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE offices, hotels, though they are not on the high list result is that lives are often lost before the intervention of accidents like fire or building collapse. Some few of the agencies. years back for instance, the National Emergency Going forward, we believe that the reactive Management Agency (NEMA) reported over 50 cases approach to enforcement of regulation must change of disasters in the country within three days with 40 of T H I S D AY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D if the nation is to fundamentally check the spate of EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA them occurring in Lagos State alone, and killing many disasters enveloping it. Regulatory agencies need to GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, Nigerians in the process. Elevator accidents could also ISRAEL IWEGBU, EMMANUEL EFENI apply the rules in accordance with extant laws that be fatal, be it in the developing or the advanced world.

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, require them to provide effective supervision at every From South Africa, Iran, Cambodia to Israel, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE stage. It is necessary for the various regulatory agencies Canada, United States and South Korea, accidents DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI and disaster management bodies to collaborate and SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH with severe casualties have been reported, attributed embark on a massive public enlightenment on safety ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI to defective doors, irregular speed, or snapped wires, regulations, dangers of non-compliance and basic electric or mechanical issue that mixes the signals CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO steps to take in the event of an untoward occurrence. in the elevator, Indeed, about the same period the TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

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

LETTERS

LAGOS AND THE 2024 BUDGET OF RENEWAL

The common accounting tool governments, companies, organisations and several other institutions across the world use for planning and controlling what they must do to satisfy the people, customers and succeed in governance, business and other areas of human endeavours is budgeting.

Budgets provide a measure of the financial results a company expects from its planned activities. By planning for the future, government officials, chief executives, managers, administrators and others in leadership positions learn to anticipate potential problems and how to avoid them. Instead of subsequently facing problems, they can focus their energies on exploiting opportunities. In the last four and half years, the Lagos State Government has changed the paradigm not only in budgeting, but in its implementation in the country. The State has not only effectively monitored budget implementation, it has consistently delivered a budget performance in excess of 70%. It has been the policy of the government to embark on periodic budget review.

Repeated monitoring, critical examination and diligent application of the process have impacted positively on budget performance in the state. The idea of periodic budget assessment speaks volume of the pro-activeness of the government as it

affords it a scientific basis of measuring its performance in a consistent manner while putting pressure on government departments and agencies to meet budgetary targets.

While presenting the 2024 budget estimate, christened ‘The Budget of Renewal’, to the State House of Assembly, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu revealed that as at the third quarter of 2023, the period ending 30th September 2023, his government had implemented N1.032 trillion of the 2023 Budget, representing 78% of the prorated estimate of N1.326 trillion.

According to the governor, actual capital expenditure stood at N613.52 Billion, 80 percent of the prorated estimate of N764.93 billion, while actual recurrent expenditure was at N419.06 billion, representing 75 percent of the prorated estimate of N561.073 billion.

He was, however, convinced that the 2023 budget will have a budget performance that is close to 90% by the end of the year.

This amply reflects the commendable form of progress that is being made in terms of budget monitoring and implementation at the ‘Centre of Excellence’. More importantly, it is inspiring that the result of a recent impact assessment done by the government shows that critical sectors such as Health, Education, the Envi-

ronment, and Security are experiencing marked improvements.

In terms of literacy level, for example, the level in the state is above the national average. In terms of life expectancy, Lagos State is above the national average. The implication of this is enhanced security, improved healthcare and invariably better quality of life. The number of patients to doctors is also improving as reflected in life expectancy. Equally, the number of still births and deaths is also gradually reducing.

It is, thus, quite cheering that the State’s 2024 Budget proposal is coming at a time when the focus of the government is on sustaining and surpassing the gains of the past four and half years through the completion of several ongoing projects such as the Phase 11 of the Lagos Blue Light Rail, Massey Street Children’s Hospital, General Hospital, Ojo and Opebi-Ojota Link Bridge, among others.

The 2024 Budget, as proposed, has a total budget size of N2.246,234 trillion, comprising a total revenue of N1.847,951 trillion and deficit financing of N398.283 billion.

Tayo Ogunbiyi is Director (Features), Ministry of Information and Strategy, Alausa, Ikeja

27

T H I S D AY • Wednesday, December 27, 2023

BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S MONEY MARKET

A S

A T

REPO

Group Business Editor Eromosele Abiodun Email oriarehu.eromosele@thisdaylive.com

08056356325

D e c e m b er

S & P INDEX

2 6 , 2 0 2 3

S & P INDEX

EXCHANGE RATE

OPR

11.25%

CALL

19.12%

INDEX LEVEL

611.31%

1/4 to daTE

-0.07%

N795.28/ 1 US DOLLAR*

OVERNIGHT

11.50%

1-MONTH

16.25%

1-DAY

0.03%

YEAR TO DATE

0.48%

*AS AT Monday, July 24, 2023

3-MONTH

15.75%

MONTH-TO-DATE

-0.7%

UBA, FBN Holdings, Other Banking Stocks Beat Inflation as Returns Hit 112.60%

Kayode Tokede Investors who invested in the banking stocks on Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) are reaping bountiful reward on investment, as United Bank for Africa Plc, among others continued to appreciate elevated by Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) foreign exchange reforms.

Other factors driving banking stocks on the NGX include; impressive corporate earnings and interim dividend pay-out to investors.

At the close of trades last Friday, the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) Banking Index stood at 887.60 basis points, gaining 112.60 per cent or 470.1 basis

points Year-till-Date (YtD) from 417.5basis points it opened for trading in 2022.

In the same vein, the stock market’s return stood at 44.43 per cent as of December 22, higher than the country’s inflation rate, which rose to a fresh 18-year high of 28.20 per cent in November.

President Bola Tinubu changes to Nigeria’s foreign exchange operational framework triggered investors taking positions in banking stocks.

The stock market community cheered some of the economic decisions of the Tinubu administration, leading to the Nigerian Exchange Limited AllShare Index (NGX ASI) reaching a new record of 74,000 basis points.

Foreign and local investors rushed to take position in the banking stocks between June and August following the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) naira unification policy.

THISDAY analysis of trading activity revealed that United Bank for Africa Plc, and Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc are the only two banking stocks with over 200 per cent YtD return, while Unity Bank Plc, Fidelity Bank Plc, Access Holdings Plc and FBN Holdings recorded over 100 per cent stock price appreciation as of December 22, 2023.

As Wema Bank Plc, the sole banking stock with 40.77 per cent YtD return as of December 22, the likes of Ecobank Transnational

Incorporated (ETI), Zenith Bank Plc, Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc, and Jaiz bank Plc recorded above 50 per cent YtD average return in the period under review.

Specifically, UBA opened trading in 2023 at N7.60 per share, increased significantly by 236.8 per cent YtD to close at N25.60 per share as of December 22, 2023, while Sterling Financial Holdings Company closed at N4.50 per share as of December 22, 2023, after gaining 221.4 per cent YtD from N1.40 per share it opened for trading this year.

UBA in the first half (H1) of 2023 ending June 30, 2023 emerged the most profitable in Nigeria, followed

by Zenith Bank and GTCO.

UBA’s profit before tax (PBT) of N404 billion beats Zenith’s N350 billion, GTCO’s N327.4 billion, First Banks’s N206 billion, and Access Bank’s N167billion.

For UBA, this represents a 371 per cent growth in PBT, compared to the N85.75 billion in the corresponding period last year.

There were strong contributions to group profit from its operations in 20 African countries, UBA America, UBA UK, UBA UAE, and UBA France which the bank describes as a demonstration of effectiveness of its global strategy and positioning as the financial intermediary for Africa and the rest of the world – thereby “delivering on the Tony Elumelu strategy”.

The board and management of

UBA proposed an interim dividend of N0.50 per share as against N0.20 per share in the corresponding period last year.

The Group Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, UBA, Mr. Oliver Alawuba in a statement said, “Our Board has approved an interim dividend of 50k per share, which represents an over 150per cent increase over prior year.

“As we approach the last quarter of the year, the Group remains strategically positioned to sustain the strong performance, consolidating on H1 2023 results, to deliver superior returns to our esteemed shareholders.”

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Experts: Nigeria’s Debt Level to Remain Elevated in Short to Mid-term Nume Ekeghe

Experts in the financial service sector have predicted a notable upward trajectory in Nigeria’s total public debt following a modest increase of 0.61 per cent quarter-on-quarter (QoQ).

Nigeria’s debt rose from N87.38 trillion at the end of Q2, 2023 to N87.91 trillion by September 30, 2023.

In a port, analysts at Merristem said these trends suggest an expected continued rise in Nigeria’s

debt in the near future The report noted that with the domestic debt increase by N1.80 trillion, reaching N50.20 trillion in Q3, 2023 suggest a sustained high level of national debt in the short to medium term, with expectations of increased domestic borrowing by the government.

According to the report: “According to data from the Debt Management Office (DMO), Nigeria’s total public debt registered a slight increase +0.61 per cent QoQ, rising from N87.38 trillion

at the close of Q2, 2023 to N87.91 trillion as of September 30, 2023.

The domestic debt stock of the country increased by N1.80 trillion, reaching N50.20 trillion in Q3, 2023.”

“However, the external debt decreased, attributed to the redemption of a $500.00million Eurobond and the payment of $413.86million as the first principal repayment of a $4.30billion obtained from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in 2020. We anticipate the nation’s debt level to remain

elevated in the short to mid-term, with expectations of additional domestic borrowings by the government.”

They added, “The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) released data indicating a slight increase in Nigeria’s unemployment rate to 4.20 per cent in Q2, 2023 from 4.10 per cent in the preceding quarter. Notably, youth unemployment 15 to 24 years witnessed a 30bps uptick, rising to 7.20 per cent from the 6.90 per cent recorded in Q1, 2023.

Furthermore, on related domestic

economic highlights, it noted that in Q2, 2023, the employment-topopulation rate stood at 77.10 per cent, “while the proportion of the employed population classified as underemployed decreased from 12.20 per cent in Q1 to 11.80 per cent during the same period; simultaneously, AIICO Insurance Plc obtained a 5.00 per cent stake in Infrastructure Credit Guarantee Company Limited, becoming the second domestic institutional investor welcomed by the institution, after Leadway Assurance Plc’s

inaugural investment, aligning with InfraCredit’s objective to augment private sector involvement in its ownership.

“The employment-to-population rate was reported at 77.10 per cent in Q2, 2023. Additionally, there was a decrease in the share of the working population classified as underemployed, dropping from 12.20 per cent in Q1 to 11.80 per cent in the period under review.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

M a r k e t d ata A s at T u e s d ay, D e c e m b e r 2 6 , 2 0 2 3 BONDS Description Price Yield Change Updated Time (%) ^13.53 23December 100.65 12.91 0,00 21, 2023 MAR-2025 December ^12.50 220,00 21, 98.58 13.29 2023 JAN-2026 ^16.2884 17December 108.25 13.06 0,00 MAR-2027 21, 2023 ^13.98 23December 100.50 13.80 0,00 FEB-2028 21, 2023 ^14.55 26December 100.13 14.50 0,00 21, APR-2029 2023

BILLS Maturity

Discount Yield

NTB 25-Jan24 NTB 8-Feb24 NTB 7-Mar24 NTB 11-Apr24 NTB 9-May24

3.00

3.01

December 0.00 21, 2023

3.50

3.52

December 0.00 21, 2023

5.85

5.92

December 0.00 21, 2023

6.41

6.54

December 0.00 21, 2023

7.16

December -0.01 21, 2023

6.97

OTC F X F U T U R E S

CPs

Change (%) Updated Time

Maturity MCIL CP VIII 27-DEC-23 RMBL CP VI 31-JAN-24 CRSL CP II 18-FEB-24 FLOURMILLS CP III 29-FEB-24 UACN CP VI 19-MAR-24

Discount Yield 10.36

10.38

8.61

8.69

11.63

11.86

13.40

13.75

11.58

11.92

Change (%)

Updated Time

December 2,00 21, 2023 December -1,00 21, 2023 December -1,00 21, 2023 December -1,00 21, 2023 December -2,00 21, 2023

Contract Current Tenor Contract Rate ($/₦) (Month) NGUS DEC 13 – 24 2024 NGUS JAN 14 – 29 2025 NGUS FEB 15 – 26 2025 NGUS MAR 16 – 26 2025 NGUS APR 17 – 30 2025

Updated Time

December 21, 2023 December 21, 2023 December 21, 2023 December 21, 2023 December 21, 2023

28

Wednesday, December 27, 2023 • T H I S D AY

BUSINESSWORLD

InSurance

2023: Year Insurance Became N1tn Market In 2009, the insurance industry through its medium term plan of Market Development and Restructuring Initiative (MDRI), set the target of achieving annual premium income of N1 trillion from N260 billion with 2012 as its target year. Ebere Nwoji reports that the sector achieved this feat in 2023.

F

or the Nigerian insurance sector, the outgoing year 2023 was a year of achievement of its tall dream of transforming into N1 trillion market as well as a year the operators played fully in the global terrain, utilising technology in advancement of businesses.

At the on set of the year, activities and developments in both local and global business environment made insurers to see the year 2023 as positive business year though they also saw some emerging challenges.

Indeed preview reports by analysts for the year psyched insurers as marching into the year with positive thinking that the year would be a vibrant one though with a lot of challenges to contend with.

For Nigerian insurers, their hopes and aspirations were anchored on the fact that early passage of the year’s budget would accelerate operations because of new contracts that would be awarded and paid for as well as yields from the huge investments they made in technology as a result of COVID-19 outbreak.

Also, they were hopeful that the approval early in the year of N9.24 billion by federal government for payment of group life insurance of its workers would if timely released boost the insurers’ operations.

With these, Nigerian insurers saw the year as that of upward and forward movement rather than year of stagnation and marking time.

For the global insurers, contrary to the usual trend over the years in which natural catastrophes and climate change constitute key business risks around the world, these risks in the year 2023 dropped down the rankings of insurers’ risks fears as companies prioritise cyber incidents, business interruptions, pressing macro economic concerns such as inflation, energy crisis and possible recession as major source of claims in 2023.

In Risk Barometer report, global insurer and risk bearing giant, Allianz named cyber incidents, business interruption and macro economic concerns as the greatest concerns for the second year in succession, with macroeconomic developments such as inflation, financial market volatility, recession and the impact of the energy crisis the fastest risers in the year’s list.

The report show that Asia-Pacific and African countries reflect a peculiar frame for these regions reflecting the different impact of the war in Ukraine and its economic and political repercussions.

In its risk ranking for the year, natural catastrophe and climate change dropped as did pandemic outbreak, as vaccines have brought an end to lockdowns and restrictions.

Political risks and violence was another new entry in the top 10 global risks whilst shortage of skilled workforce rose to 8.

Also, Deloitte in its report for insurance industry in 2023 observed that the road ahead was dotted with multiple hurdles such as rising inflation, interest rates, and loss costs. It said the threats of recession, climate change, and geopolitical upheaval; and competition from InsurTechs and even noninsurance entities such as e-tailers and manufacturers, made

the year 2023 not to be a time for insurance carriers to be satisfied with the adaptations they’ve had to make.

NAICOM’s Third Party Insurance

Here in Nigeria, the operators started the year on a good note with the announcement of 200 percent increase on premium for compulsory Motor Third Party Insurance Premium.

However, towards the second quarter of the year NAICOM raised the alarm that the prevailing foreign exchange crisis and inflationary trend in the country have negatively impacted on insurance sector with life insurance segment being the worst hit.

NAICOM however said the insurance sector had in the past eight years witnessed 15 per cent annual growth from N282.9billion in 2015 to N726billion in 2022.

Commissioner for Insurance and Chief Executive Officer of NAICOM, Mr. Sunday Olorundare Thomas, at the 2023 retreat for Insurance Journalists held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State explained the negative economic factors affected insurance business, saying that the current level of exchange rate and inflation made assets replacement an issue.

This, according to him, is because with inflation and high exchange rate of dollar

to Naira, insurance assets that were foreign exchange dependent was affected as people were not ready to revalue their assets as such in replacing a damaged property, “insurance firms would be under no obligation to pay anything more than the cost of the property and the sum assured.”

Under such circumstance, Thomas said those who were wise, needed to adjust the value of their assets in order to derive maximum benefits, “because when the value was increased, it mean more premium would be paid for claims payment to be higher when the unforeseen occurs.”

According to him: “When we have this less level of exchange rate, assets replacement becomes an issue, and when you get to the position where assets that were acquired at a particular amount, especially assets that are foreign exchange dependent, people are not quick to revalue their assets.”

Developments in the industry

As earlier stated, the industry started the year on a good note with increase of 200 percent in premium charged on motor insurance premium .

NAICOM had late December 2022 announced 200 percent increase in third party motor insurance from N5000 to N15000, saying it

would take effect from January 1, 2023.This came after over 20 years of non increase in the compulsory Motor Third Party insurance policy.

NAICOM equally raised the claims and cost of insurance on all classes of motor insurance, including motorcycles.

According to NAICOM, Motor Third Party insurance premium rate for motorists increased from N5000 to N15, 000.

The commission also raised claims payable on the policy from N100,000 to N3million in the event of an accident.

Just as it said that buyers of comprehensive motor insurance should not pay less than five per cent of the sum insured or the price of the vehicle after all rebates and discounts.

NAICOM stated this in a circular dated December 22, 2022, signed by Director, Policy & Regulation, Leonard Akah with the number ‘NAICOM/DPR/CIR/46/2022’, and issued to all insurance companies.

According to the circular, the highest cost in the new motor insurance premium rates, was N100,000 for commercial truck/general cartage which also attracts the N5 million claims in the event of any accident.

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

LASAA, LASBCA Collaborate to Streamline Development Board Signage Permits Bamali Extols Alternative Bank’s Role in Driving Economic Growth

Oluchi Chibuzor

The Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA) and the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) have fine-tuned strategic collaboration efforts aimed at obtaining approval process for property development board signage permits and building construction permits.

This initiative, which is set to commence January 1, 2024 represents a joint commitment to enhancing the overall development landscape of Lagos State as well as curb corrupt practices in the built environment.

Speaking at a meeting of both

agencies in Ikeja, the Managing Director of LASAA, Prince Fatiu Akiolu said, “This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our commitment to creating a more efficient and developerfriendly regulatory environment.

By working hand-in-hand with LASBCA, we aim to ensure all development signboards are in compliance with the best global standard and contributing to a better environment.

“The process is simple.

Application for any building construction to LASBCA will be required to pay for the development board fee for their developments.

LASAA will issue a permit letter of approval for the application as well as information board to be affixed to each site.”

In his remark, the General Manager of LASBCA, Gbolahan Owodunni Oki said the initiative is to curb sharp practices in the built industry as well as curb the process of surcharging the state government financially.

He said that the development board permit granted by LASAA will easily identify the details of the construction being undertaken and the manpower deployed at the construction sites.

Oki said further, “The collaboration with LASAA reflects our joint dedication to the sustainable

development of Lagos State.

Streamlining the approval process for building constructions and signage permits not only benefits developers but also contributes to a more harmonious and aesthetically pleasing urban landscape”.

“Effective January 1, 2024, all existing and new development must obtain along with other approvals the development board permit from LASAA before the letter of authorisation to commence construction can be granted. Construction sites not covered by this signage permit will be sealed up.”

Presco Rewards 38 Staff, Lauds Performance

Thirty-Eight employees of Presco Plc have received various items as rewards for their loyal services, dedication and outstanding performance during the year 2023.

Congratulating the recipients at the end of year party held at Obaretin Estate headquarters of the company, Managing Director, Felix Nwabuko explained that the company’s Sakponba Estate was fully planted as projected

for the year under review.

According to him, tremendous progress was made in both field operations and production targets which he remarked could not have been achieved without the workers.

On behalf of the Board of Directors, Nwabuko commended all the workers of Presco Plc, describing them as the company’s greatest asset.

He congratulated all the 2023 award recipients and encouraged all workers to continue to be diligent at their duty posts.

Nwabuko also used the opportunity to wish all workers and their families a merry Christmas and successful 2024.

The Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Reji George, also congratulated the award recipients who he described as having

performed exceptionally in the year.

A Tractor Operator, Mr. David Onoto, emerged the overall best staff of the company, followed by Mr. Charles Onwuasoanya who emerged overall second-best staff.

Members of staff who have put in up to ten years of service and beyond were also recognized and awarded cash rewards for their long years of service.

Nume Ekeghe The Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamali, has praised The Alternative Bank (TAB) for its impactful role as a non-interest banking institution, driving economic growth through sustainable practices, responsible investment, and financial decisions.

The bank in a statement noted that during the grand inauguration of TAB’s first physical branch in Zaria, Kaduna State, the esteemed traditional ruler delivered a keynote address that underscored the manifold of the noninterest banking institution highlighting its characteristics to include economic inclusivity, risk-sharing, and adherence to the principles of equality and cooperation. The overarching theme of his address resonated with the potential of ‘NonInterest Banking: Opportunities and Benefits for the Nigerian Economy.’

Predicting substantial contributions to GDP growth and

the support of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), Bamali urged The Alternative Bank to establish an unbreakable bond with the people of Zazzau Emirate. He envisioned “a new economic era where ethical financial principles harmonize with the cherished values of the emirate, fostering entrepreneurial endeavours and elevating the economic landscape”.

Regional Head of NorthCentral Sales, Products, and Propositions, Umar Umar, declared that the bank, commencing with a modest portfolio, has rapidly emerged as a leading non-interest banking entity in Nigeria.

Umar highlighted The Alternative Bank’s global reach as a fully digital bank; offering services across Nigeria and beyond through digital channels and acknowledging the enduring partnership with Zaria’s community, he expressed confidence in catalysing the bank’s business and benefiting customers in the region through this new branch.

29 29

T H I S D AY • Wednesday, December 27, 2023

BUSINESSWORLD

Status Report

Chams Profit Growth Signals Recovery

Kayode Tokede

W

ith the current on going transformations, Chams Holding Company Plc migrated from 2022 financial year and the third quarter ended September 30, 2022 losses to becoming a profitable company in the third quarter of 2023.

Despite reporting N375.24million loss in 2022 financial year and N135.81million loss in Q3 2022, the group recovered and generated N255.1 million profit in Q3 2023.

The profit growth was driven by a significant increase in revenue and the board management of finance income.

In Q3 2023, Chams Holdings declared N7.51billion revenue, representing an increase of 137 per cent from N3.17billion reported in Q3 2022.

Key contributing factors to Chams Holdings’s revenue in Q3 2023 includes: N3.45billion generated from Printer Solutions and Access, N1.99billion generated from card personalisation & printing and N1.08billion from Payment Systems Solutions.

Drives of revenue in Q3 2023

The company’s recent financial performance has left industry insiders and investors alike pondering the driving forces behind Chams’ impressive ascent.

The company’s subsidiary, Card Center Nigeria Limited (CCNL), has been a key player in this success story. Widely recognized for its production of financial cards, CCNL has strategically diversified into the local production of SIM cards for Telecoms and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) operating in Nigeria.

This move aligns with Chams’ commitment to innovation and signifies a bold step towards reducing industry reliance on foreign exchange and ensuring cost-effectiveness in the production of SIM cards.

CCNL, a pioneer in the production of financial cards, has significantly expanded its capacity, now boasting the capability to produce an

impressive 60,000 cards per day.

Plans are already underway to further increase this production capacity, with a move to a new warehouse scheduled for 2024.

The company’s foresight and adaptability are evident in its recent test run of the production of the Afrigo card scheme, a project facilitated by the Nigerian Interbank Settlement System (NIBSS).

This landmark achievement positions CCNL as an industry trailblazer, having successfully onboarded not only traditional banks but also beginning to onboard fintech players, including MoniePoint, Opay, and PalmPay. The local production of SIM cards is a strategic masterstroke by CCNL and Chams Holdco, fostering national self-sufficiency and insulating the industry from the volatile foreign exchange market. CCNL has produced an impressive 11.5 million SIM cards this year, a testament to the company’s commitment to quality and efficiency.

Chams Holdco’s impressive financial performance is a result of meticulous backward integration efforts. Collaborating with strategic partners, CCNL is set to introduce new production lines for SIM cards and is looking to become a net exporter of its products to other African countries.

The company’s strategic moves, including the expansion of its card production capabilities, the successful onboarding of major players, and the ground breaking venture into local SIM card production, stand out as key contributors to its financial surge.

Chams Holdco’s ability to adapt to market dynamics and pioneer innovative solutions is undoubtedly shaping its trajectory as a frontrunner in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Meanwhile, cost of sales increased to N5.67billion in Q3 2023 from N2.52billion in Q3 2022 to positioned its gross profit to N1.84billion in Q3 2023, representing an increase of 181per cent from N652.4million

reported in Q3 2022.

In the period under review, the group declared N175.16miillion finance cost from N138.06million in corresponding period as finance income increased from N53.27million in Q3 2022 to N106million in Q3 2023.

The group operates through its four subsidiaries: Chamsswitch Limited, Chamsaccess Limited, Chamsmobile Limited and Cardcentre Limited.

Chamsswitch Limited is an indigenous and a leading Financial Technology solutions company with deep specialization in payment and transaction switch services.

The subsidiary provide electronic transaction switching services between financial and nonfinancial institutions; offers consumer-based telecommunication services such as Utility Bills Payments, E-Government services Virtual TopUp and USSD etc to institutions and individuals; routes transactions between different parties via payment cards which is aided by virtual and physical payment terminal system and works with local & international brands towards promoting electronic payment services within Nigeria and across Africa.

Through series of restructuring, the company through its Chamsaccess has advanced to become a major leader in financial and identity technology solutions, committed to providing simplified technology solutions to enhance people’s lives.

With roots in Nigeria, Chamsaccess has set sights on spreading beyond the shores while maintaining position as Africa’s first choice in Technology Services.

Chamsmobile is a CBN licesnsed Mobile Money Operator to open and maintain wallets for fund deposits, transfers and savings with its Kegow app For CardCentre Nigeria Limited, its major milestones are: Pioneered cards to Banks on the ValuCard scheme between 1992 and 2003, printing of 70 million Nigeria Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) voters identity cards in 2007. The company was at the forefront in transforming

the Nigerian payment landscape into a digital society and it plays actively in the private and public sectors, with a major footprints in the banking sector.

Solid balance sheet

The group balance sheet remained solid as total assets increased to N18.27billion as of September 30, 2023 from N16.29billion reported in 2022 financial year.

The breakdown of total assets revealed that current assets of the group grew to N8.12billion as of September 30, 2023 from N6.29billiion in 2022, while non-current assets moved from N9.99billiion in 2022 to N10.15billion as of September 30, 2023.

2023 YTD Key Achievements

Amid recovery from prior losses, investors on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) have reacted positively and the stock price of Chams has appreciated by 718 per cent to N1.80 per share as of December 22, 2023 from N0.22 per share it opened for trading this year.

In 2023, the company possess the highest Fintech License category, which has changed the business model to Platform business.

The non-operating HoldCo structure is poised for cost-efficient growth as the back office gets consolidated centrally to optimize costs across the group.

It developed a PenCentral solution to resolve reconciliation problems in PFA industry. Over N10billion has been remitted seamlessly through PenCentral this year.

The group’s on-going Business Initiatives

Part of the group on-going Business Initiatives includes, Chamsswitch certification by the biggest card scheme in the world, UnionPay International, is to drive payment across borders , the fastest growing Pension remittance platform with over 700 companies onboarded and remitted over N13billion and business expansion of Perso bureau to include SIM card production. A major supplier of SIM to MTN and others.

REDAN Reiterates Commitment to Comply With Regulatory Measures Oluchi Chibuzor The Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN), Lagos Chapter, has reiterated the commitment of its members to comply with various regulatory measures guiding the sector in the state.

The Chairman REDAN and the CEO of Revolutionplus Properties, Dr. Bamidele Onalaja stated this recently in Lagos, during an award and recognition event.

According to him, “As the Chairman of REDAN Lagos and developers we reaffirm our support to the Lagos State government by providing housing for Lagosians and complying with all regulatory frameworks. We are happy that the GM of Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA) said all our members comply with all the laws and regulations of

the state.

“For REDAN members they comply because we have a compliance team that goes round to see what they do, look at their documents, approvals.

Because if you are a REDAN member you must comply even before the government comes.

We come for you.”

On whether its members are owners of buildings that are collapsing in the state, he said, “REDAN members and the government has a lot to do in that aspect. They should ensure that most developers join REDAN, which will make them easy to track and trace.

For those that say they will not join, the government should be able to regulate, when you seal up a site, who opens it and who goes back there to open it for the developers? So, they should train their staff to make sure that when a law is made nobody breaks it.”

Managing Director, Presco Plc, Felix Nwabuko (left) congratulating a tractor operator, Mr David Onoto who emerged overall best staff of the year 2023

30

interview

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2023 • THISDAY

Du Preez: Nigerian Market Remains Strategic for Qatar Airway’s African Expansion

Qatar Airways takes the Nigerian market seriously, as demonstrated by increased weekly flights to Abuja and Port Harcourt. Hendrik du Preez, Vice-President for Africa for the airline, tells THISDAY that the increase was due to his organisation’s confidence in the future expansion of the African market while stressing the need for governments across Africa to review the cost of doing business on the continent.

A

t the beginning of March 2023, Qatar Airways increased weekly flights into Abuja and Port Harcourt from two to three and Abuja-Kano flights from three to four. Could you share some insights into the factors that influenced this decision and provide an update on the progress of this plan while sharing your experience thus far?

Since COVID-19, Qatar Airways has continuously reviewed operations, seizing every chance to scale up and expand. Nigeria stands out as one of the countries rebounding swiftly post-pandemic, evident in its market resurgence, prompting the surge in flights. As widely recognised, Lagos, Kano, Port Harcourt, and Abuja represent distinct markets, each complementing the others. The growth in these areas prompted Qatar Airways to enhance flight frequencies, catering to increased demand and offering expanded capacity to the market.

travel. Increased travel not only bolsters economies but also contributes to scaling down prices.

Who are the typical travellers filling your aircraft, where are they heading to (top cities), and where are the inbound coming from (top cities)?

To a certain extent, there has been a change observed when comparing the past three years to the past 12 months. Travel patterns have gradually reverted to the state they were in pre-COVID times.

Nigeria, in particular, maintains its traditional travel routes: where the UK remains a top market, London primarily for outbound travel, while the US also ranks high as an outbound market due to visits to friends and relatives. With the gradual reopening of the Far East, there’s been a noticeable resurgence in traffic, notably towards China and the Middle East. Furthermore, inbound traffic from China and Asia - particularly India - has increased significantly, alongside intra-Africa travel.

The predominant travel routes within Africa are observed between Lagos and Johannesburg, notably facilitated by travellers coming via Doha for flights to and from Johannesburg. The primary traffic is often linked to diaspora communities globally and students returning to their respective schools, predominantly in the US.

What are the key challenges Qatar Airways is encountering in its operations within Africa and Nigeria specifically?

The cost of doing business in Africa poses a significant challenge, not only for Qatar Airways but for every airline operating in the region. It notably exceeds costs in many other parts of the world. The widespread devaluation of currencies has further deterred people from travelling. Another challenge pertains to airport infrastructure. Nonetheless, recent years have witnessed increased investments in improving this area by several countries. There are new airports opening up all over Africa. Nigeria, for instance, recently transitioned to a new terminal in Lagos. Similarly, a new airport in Luanda was opened, reflecting such ongoing advancements across the continent.

How would you evaluate the operational performance of Qatar Airways in Africa during 2023, considering factors such as reduced buying power, regulations and the effect of inflation on revenue?

This year marks a significant shift since the onset of COVID-19, where a return to normalcy is emerging. Pre-COVID trends are resurfacing; there’s still evident pent-up demand reflected in people’s booking behaviour. To accommodate this surge in Africa, we’ve implemented systems to bolster our capacity. During the pandemic, we introduced several new routes and eight destinations, many of which have rapidly gained popularity. Despite our efforts to increase capacity, challenges persist, particularly in Nigeria, where buying power remains a hurdle amidst soaring inflation across various African countries. The currency devaluation has significantly impacted several nations, including Nigeria and Egypt.

Malawi, most notably, devalued its currency by 44% just recently. However, we’ve learnt to keep a perspective of adapting to these landscape changes, whether that be decreasing capacity during certain periods or increasing when we see demand go up again. It’s that agility that gives us a big advantage.

Nigeria remains your most connected market.

Have the same factors and possibly others positively or negatively impacted your operations in Nigeria?

Nigeria is one of the top three most populous countries in Africa, and it is one of the markets that were probably underserved before COVID-19. We saw the opportunity to expand our capacity by first increasing our Lagos flights and then adding Abuja, Kano, and Port Harcourt networks to the list. We can say that this is the most connected market we have in Africa. In Africa, at this stage, our perspective is long-term. We have made massive investments in Nigeria over the last few years, and even with the current challenge of inflation the country is constantly facing, we believe that it will still pay off in the coming future.

Besides Nigeria, Ghana, and Côte d’Ivoire, Qatar Airways’ presence in West Africa appears limited. Is demand perhaps limited only to those three markets?

Seeing how football generally contributed to the influx of Africans to Doha during the last FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, do you think that there’s a chance to partner with AFCON to enjoy similar feats?

The renewed collaboration will include the FIFA World Cup 26, FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027, and FIFA World Cup 2030, as well as youth tournaments starting with the recently held FIFA U-17 World Cup in Indonesia. Qatar Airways has been a top-tier FIFA Partner since 2017.

Most recently, we renewed our collaboration, extending it through to 2030. As FIFA’s Global Airline Partner, this agreement extends to the FIFA World Cup 26, FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027, and FIFA World Cup 2030, as well as youth tournaments starting with the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Indonesia.

This clearly places football at the forefront of our focus. During the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia, we facilitated transportation for numerous women’s teams. Our close collaboration with various football federations across Africa allows us to assist them in their travel needs.

Drawing from our extensive experience with sports travellers, we aim to ensure that travel arrangements for each of our partner teams are seamless. Our expertise in facilitating travel for professional athletes worldwide is extensive, and we hope to apply this experience to the AFCON as well. Globally, we’ve made significant investments in sports sponsorships. Our flagship engagements include F1 in Africa and our sponsorship in rugby with the URC. Du Preez

As previously mentioned, we consistently evaluate opportunities for expanding across various African markets. Following the introduction of our daily Lagos flight, we additionally inaugurated services to both Accra and Abidjan during the COVID-19 period.

Furthermore, we capitalised on partnerships with partner airlines that facilitate passenger transit from these markets to our hubs. While we don’t have direct flights to these locations, we serve them by proxy and continue to review opportunities to open more markets in West Africa, hopefully within the next year or two.

Aviation is a fiercely competitive industry with very low-profit margins. How does Qatar Airways perceive the competition it faces in its operations within Africa and Nigerian cities in particular?

Competition isn’t always negative; often,

it stimulates more people to fly, aiming to expand the aviation market and provide more individuals with the opportunity to travel. Despite comprising roughly 17% of the world’s population, Africa’s share in the global travel demographic stands at only 2%. This indicates a large room for growth on the continent. I maintain my belief that although the African market remains under-served, there are numerous prospects in the next 5 to 10 years. One of the most significant challenges hindering this growth is the cost of travel throughout the value chain. Procuring fuel in Africa often proves more expensive compared to many other global regions, amplifying the overall cost of operations. Additionally, airport operations in Africa tend to be notably costlier than elsewhere. Addressing these issues requires collaboration with governments to reassess regulations and seek ways to facilitate easier

The aviation industry is rapidly evolving, with emerging technologies and, most crucially, changing customer expectations. How is Qatar Airways adapting to these changes?

That’s quite an extensive question, considering the rapid pace of developments, particularly in the realm of AI. Over the past few years, there has been significant discourse surrounding AI, with its prevalence intensifying recently. Machine learning, among other technologies, has been seamlessly integrated into our operations, albeit discreetly, enhancing the customer journey. For instance, the implementation of biometrics to streamline check-in facilities exemplifies our utilisation of these advancements. The reliability of these technologies hinges on their widespread adoption by most countries, considering the legislative framework required for universal acceptance. Presently, we’re swiftly advancing in implementing NDC (New Distribution Capability). This facilitates an easier shopping experience for our customers, a development we are actively rolling out. I’ve long believed that one of Africa’s most significant opportunities lies in mobile technology.

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T H I S D AY • WEDNESday DECEMBER 27, 2023

Property & environment NCF Urges Govt to Conserve, Protect Wetlands Bennett Oghifo The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) has called on the federal and state governments to do all that is necessary to conserve and protect the nation’s wetlands.

According to NCF, “Wetlands are a dynamic aquatic ecosystem found all over the world. It is an area of land that is saturated

with water either permanently or seasonally. It can be freshwater, brackish, or saline.

“Wetlands can be thought of as biological supermarkets that provide a great volume of food which attract many animal species. These animals use wetlands for part of or all their life cycle. It provides values that no other ecosystem can. These include natural water quality

improvement, flood protection, shoreline, erosion control, opportunities for recreation and aesthetic appreciation and natural products for our use at no cost.

“Wetlands contribute immensely to tackling climate change challenges by enhancing the adaptation and resilience capacity of the ecosystems, provide nature-based climate solutions and address socio-

economic challenges such as water pollution, erosion, food security and human health, and disaster risk management by restoring water catchments.

“Part of the importance of wetlands are capturing and storing rainwater; replenishing groundwater aquifers; regulating water quantity and supply by releasing water at the right time to the right place in the right

amounts; improving water quality by removing and absorbing pollutants. wetlands in Nigeria are highly valuable as they contain a variety of reptiles, mammals, amphibians, and bird’s species.

“Wetlands sustain life and keep us healthy. Healthy watersheds provide natural, safe drinking water and support food production. Wetlands give us

much of the fish we eat and are used in cultivating rice for 3.5 billion people globally. Wetlands are important for biodiversity as 40% of the world’s species live in wetlands, with new fish species discovered in freshwater wetlands annually.”

They quoted Mr. Sean Melbourne, who said, “If rainforests are the lungs of the planet, then wetlands are the kidneys”

NIA President Calls for Urgent Measures to Ensure Structural Integrity in Lagos Bennett Oghifo President of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), Arc. Mobolaji Adeniyi, FNIA, has said there was an urgent need for comprehensive measures to be put in place to ensure building safety.

The NIA president stated this in response to the incessant collapse of buildings in the country, particularly the

building that collapsed at Ebute Metta, Lagos, on December 22, 2023.

A statement issued by Adeniyi, said, “It is with deep regret that the Nigerian Institute of Architects addresses the unfortunate incidence of a building collapse which occurred in Ebute Metta, Lagos, on December 22, 2023.

The NIA extends deep and heartfelt condolences to the

families of the victims and the Lagos State Government at this distressing time.

“This incident, occurring yet again in Lagos, emphasises the urgent need for comprehensive measures to be put in place to ensure building safety within the state. We express our sympathy to the affected families, acknowledging the pain and loss they are enduring at this time.

“In response to this tragic incident, as the President of the NIA, I have instructed the Chairman of the Lagos Chapter, Arc. David Majekodunmi, FNIA, to visit the site promptly and report to the Institute with a thorough assessment and situation report.”

She said, “NIA stands ready to collaborate closely with the Lagos State Government, The Building Collapse Prevention

Guild (BCPG) and all other relevant Agencies to investigate and address the root cause of these recurring incidents of building collapse and work towards viable solutions to prevent future occurrences.

“This collaborative effort will be aimed at understanding the circumstances leading to these incidents, but also contribute to the development of robust building regulations

and standards that prioritize safety within our communities.

“We continue to emphasise to the Government at all levels and the public in general, the need to engage only Registered Architects by our Regulatory body (ARCON) and other qualified professionals to mitigate against the occurrence of building collapse and enforcement of adherence to Industry Standards and Regulations.

Polymath Wins Innovative, Reliable Real Estate 2023 Awards Fadekemi Ajakaiye Polymath real estate limited has been awarded the ‘Innovative and reliable real estate company of the year 2023’ at the Prestige Excellence Award and Lecture (PEAL) held recently at the Civic center, Victoria Island Lagos.

The event showcased a total of 29 categories of awards ranging from religion to entertainment, politics, real estate, media personality, educationist, charity organisation, among

others.

According to a statement by Wale Abiodun, Executive Director, Prestige Excellence Award and Lecture, the event was instituted to recognise and appreciate deserving individuals, corporate entities and professional institutions that have made remarkable impact in our society.

In his reaction to the award, the founder of Polymath real estate limited, Ajisafe Kabiru said he believes that the

award has only brought to the public notice the credibility of Polymath Real Estate Limited and also put a responsibility on the team to do more.

“We emerged a winner by nomination for the award category and we are very much excited. As a team we have seen it as a challenge to keep the standard by doing more,” he said.

Speaking further, Ajisafe said that the goal of his organisation is to make real estate transactions very easy, which according

to him is being achieved.

“We want to make all of our customers amazed and satisfied at the same time.

We are here to change the narratives of real estate development,” he said.

The Award was organised by the Prestige News Online and Prestige International Magazine, a platform that is dedicated to identifying and celebrating individuals and corporate organisations that have contributed significantly to the welfare and betterment of our society.

L-R: Brands and Communication Manager Polymath Real Estate, Mr. Nnanna Emmanuel; and Founder Polymath Real Estate, Mr. Ajisafe Kabiru, at the Prestige Excellence Award and Lecture (PEAL) held Victoria Island Lagos… recently

Nigeria’s Demography Aiding Real Estate Sector’s Evolution, Says Egbochie Despite the challenges in the operating environment, experts are projecting growth in the real estate sector.

Mr Bartholomew Egbochie, the Chief Executive Officer of ATCO Homes, a fast-rising real estate company, talks to Fadekemi Ajakaiye about the Nigerian real estate sector, the prevailing economic reality, the prospects for investors and how his firm emerged a winner at the International Property Awards (IPA) and the International Standards Excellence Awards

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nterest in the Nigerian real estate sector has peaked in the past decade, especially the periods before the pandemic. What can you say is responsible for the major growth in the real estate sector?

You are right. There has been a major growth in the real estate sector. To be candid, Nigeria’s demography, the massive movement of people from rural to urban areas and subsequent redistribution of land rights and properties have aided the real estate sector’s evolution.

Currently, Nigeria has an estimated population of over 200 million people, out of which, 52% have settled in the urban areas. The population settling in the urban areas is expected to peak further, increasing to 85% in the year 2050.

There have been an impressive expansion of cities and the development of new ones with its attendant housing, infrastructure and service needs. That should interest every curious investor. These are factors contributing to the growth of the real estate sector.

Aside from the growth in population and movement of people from rural to urban areas, the consequent rise in infrastructure, housing demands, what other factors are responsible for the growth of the real estate sector?

The introduction of focused laws, institutions, and rejig in the policy environment have also aided the evolution of Nigeria’s real estate sector. Take, for instance, the introduction of the land Use Act of 1978 which harmonised the different land use policies, customary practices

spending.

L-R: Chairman of the Africa International Housing Show, Alhaji Suleiman Hassan presenting the Africa’s Construction Person of the Year Award to the Executive Director, Administration, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Alhaji Zubairu Ibrahim Bayi at the International Conference Centre, Abuja… recently

and rights to land for the formation of the land tenure system. The land use act vested the powers to allocate and control the use of land on different tiers of the government. This gave room for the privatization. As well, the establishment of institutions such as Ministries and Agencies of

Land and Physical Planning across different tiers of government has further improved access to land and real estate investments in the country. Precisely, in recent times, the real estate market has benefited from government policies targeted at diversifying the economy, which has resulted in significant infrastructure

Despite the level of growth in the sector, challenges remain. What are the challenges confronting the sector?

I must let you know that despite the challenges, we have been able to come up with innovative operating models that focus on the effective use of digital solutions and public-private collaborations to deliver return on investments for investors. Meanwhile, the critical challenges confronting the sector remain the high cost of land acquisition and development, infrastructure deficit, a few regulatory processes that need review which I believe the government, because of its focus on creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, is looking into. As I said, although these challenges hamper efficiency in the sector, we keep scaling our models to ensure we make our customers happy. What stands ATCO Homes out, however, is our transparent, honest way of doing business.

We are also big on innovation, adoption of tech, modern design, use of quality building materials and pursuit of a sustainable, eco-friendly environment across our estates.

For those reasons we were recognised at the International Property Awards that were held in Dubai and the World Quality Assurance awards organised in Abuja recently.

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

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T H I S D AY • WEDNESday DECEMBER 27, 2023

Education 2023: Year of New Administration, Promises

With four days to the end of 2023, Funmi Ogundare highlights the major events that shaped the education sector in the outgoing year

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hen President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office in June after his inauguration, he promised to hit the ground running by improving on the achievements of his predecessor, former president Mohammadu Buhari. Part of the bills he assented to since the start of his administration was the Student Loan Act to facilitate the provision of financial assistance to poor Nigerian students in tertiary institutions. The legislation allows them to access interest-free loans from the Nigerian Education Loan Fund.

It is expected to kick off in January 2024.

However, its introduction was greeted with mixed reactions from stakeholders. While the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) described the loan as discriminatory and difficult to sustain, others explained that its repayment could come with challenges, considering the high unemployment rate in the country.

It is still disappointing for many who thought President Bola Tinubu’s administration would keep his promise of increasing the 2024 education budget to at least 15 per cent. They were dejected to see that it was still a drop in the ocean and had not changed from the previous administration. From the N27.5 trillion 2024 budget proposal signed into law, only N2.18 trillion or 7.9 per cent of the budget was allocated to the education sector. The president of ASUU, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, had complained that Nigeria has the least remuneration for professors and that not much progress would be made in the sector if the budget was not increased. He advised the government to meet with the cabinet members and increase the budget to 15 per cent or more.

The President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Lucky Emonefe, called on the president to increase the 2024 federal government budget and include students in its execution.

“The problems facing the education sector are enormous, and urgent intervention is needed to prevent a complete loss of its standard,” he stated.

Three months after he was elected, he appointed 45 new ministers, including the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman and the Minister of State, Dr Yusuf Sununu.

They solicited support from Nigerians to bring about the desired improvement or change in the standard of education.

In the outgoing year, the federal government approved the exemption of universities, polytechnics, colleges of education and other tertiary institutions from the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) and granted them the autonomy to recruit their own staff, for which the federal ministry of education would develop guidelines to guide against the abuses.

This is quite significant as the remuneration to staff members of these institutions would no longer flow through the platform.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, who disclosed this after a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the State House, Abuja, reasoned that the IPPIS does not afford tertiary institutions the freedom to run their affairs.

In the outgoing year, Sununu disclosed that the implementation of the safe school policy to prevent schools from further attacks has commenced.

He spoke against the backdrop of the abduction of school children around the country, explaining that the ministry had instituted a joint committee with the finance ministry, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and other security organisations with national emergency response coordination centres.

The essence of the centre, he noted, is to provide the community with information on the possibility and early signs of attacks and that once that is done, proactive measures will be put in place to guide against further attacks.

“The policy emerged following the abduction of the Chibok girls in Borno State, and it became a serious issue that education must be protected from attacks, and that brought us to

President Tinubu the Safe School Declaration. And simply, the declaration says that education must be protected, education must be delivered to children,” said Sununu.

The education minister added, “If there are attacks and they are moved to another centre, they should be provided access to education in their camp, and also, no school should be used for military activities. Nigeria is a signatory to that, and also here locally, we came down and launched the Safe School Initiative and in essence, it is the stepping down of the interglobal declaration to Nigeria.”

Sununu added that if attacks became imminent, the joint committee would quickly evacuate the students from areas prone to the attack.

He said if the attack unfortunately happened, then the security agents could work hand in hand to ensure that the abducted children were rescued within the shortest possible time.

On a cheery note, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) announced the release of the results for the 2023 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for school candidates, where it recorded 80 per cent pass in a minimum of five subjects, including English Language and Mathematics, out of 1,613,733 candidates that sat the examination.

The examination body also said it withheld the results of 262,803 candidates due to reports of cases of examination malpractice.

WAEC’s former Head of Nigeria’s Office, Patrick Areghan, who disclosed this in Lagos, also announced an improvement in pass rate by candidates as 1,361,608 candidates, representing 84.38 per cent, obtaining credit and above in a minimum of five subjects with or without English Language or Mathematics.

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) also released the results of the 2023 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), conducted through computer-based tests (CBT) between April 25 and May 1. The JAMB spokesperson, Fabian Benjamin, said 1,595,779 candidates registered to sit in 708 CBT centres in 105 towns. The results excluded candidates rescheduled to take their examination on May 6 and those absent.

Others excluded were candidates under

Prof. Mamman investigation and those of visually impaired candidates.

Following allegations of UTME score forgery, the board accused Ejikeme of manipulating her results by inflating her score from 249 to 362. However, the candidate insisted that the 362 was the score she received both on the JAMB website and in the SMS sent to her by the board. The examination body subsequently announced it would withdraw the candidate’s original UTME result and bar her from taking the test for three years. However, she admitted forging her scores during an investigation by an eight-member panel set up by Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra. The panel discovered that Miss Ejikeme indeed forged the result. Amidst the controversy, the National Assembly waded into the saga by setting up a committee to investigate the matter. It urged JAMB to suspend any punitive measure against the candidate pending the conclusion of its investigation. In a letter addressed to the JAMB Registrar, Miss admitted to committing the forgery, blaming “ignorance” for her action.

Towards the end of the year, the federal government expressed its commitment to return 15 million out-of-school children to the classroom by 2027. The minister of education expressed concern about the learning crisis, a major issue and a bad product of the menace, which should be taken seriously. He stated that having robust policies was not enough to tackle the challenges but to deliver on such policies.

Aside from this, the federal government stated that all stakeholders would validate for implementation the take-off of establishing some federal colleges of education and teacher education and development in the country in early 2024.

In their assessment of the sector, stakeholders expressed worry about the state of the economy, saying that with the steps taken so far by the new administration, they could fix the sector.

Chairman of Lagos State Research and Innovation Council and former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, stated that he sees a brighter future for tertiary education with the impact of the present administration.

“With the recent development of the new government, I can see a bright future for the tertiary education sector. So far, the government have done well,” said Ogundipe. “The grey areas are being attended to, and within the next six to one year, they will have been able to bring the lecturers and researchers together to do something about the tertiary education system.”

On how the administration could help to

“The primary goal of university education is to generate funds, so it requires a lot of investment in not just laboratory , but laboratory for major research. Those are not cheap.”

tackle security in schools, he said, “There is no country in the world where you have all saints. The security problem is a global problem. It is not localised only to Nigeria.

There is a need for us to share information.

If there is any crime anywhere, the security involved should not hide it.

“They should say it out and give information about the development. Once you are giving people that information, people will have confidence in you and, at the end of the day, if you are able to arrest the situation or the people who are involved.”

Ogundipe stressed the need to involve the community, noting that the confidence people have in the government will lead to the community supporting the government regarding security.

“Security is not localised to government alone. Everybody must be involved and be security-conscious to move the country forward.

You must not think that it is the president that will handle it,” Ogundipe explained.

“When you see anybody going round your facility, school or locality, you should be able to record it. Thank God for the phones that we have now.”

In his submission, the Rector of Yaba College of Technology, Dr Ibraheem Abdul, stated that the country is beginning to realise the need to improve funding for the education sector and focus especially on Technical and Vocational Education ( TVE).

“We want to compliment the focus Mr. President is giving on TVET. It is a step that will lead to technological development in the country. In the past, TVET has been getting very little attention, but the federal government is beginning to give us prominent attention now,” said Abdul. “It will be a booster to those in the TVET section to improve their delivery in the sector in the country. It is important that our graduates have the necessary soft skills. Most institutions are also upgrading to ensure that the necessary 21st-century skills are what we give to our students to enable them to take up the challenges of the workspace to excel.”

He added that the college is upgrading its general courses and ensuring that soft skills are embedded.

“We are also bringing some new courses for them to cope with life,” noted Abdul.

In her submission, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, described 2023 as a tough time for the education sector, saying that the state of the economy wasn’t favourable.

She said, “The exchange rate made our poor salary even poorer. It was a time when people left the education in droves. It was a tsunami of exits, especially for our younger lecturers, but it wasn’t limited to them. We also had older staff. Those who remained are doing it patriotically.”

She explained that the sector came into a crossroads in funding university education, saying that a lot of investment is required to put in place the right infrastructure and manpower so that students can compete favourably globally.

“University education is not like secondary school. The faculty students exchange is the smallest part of the work that needs to be done in the university. The primary goal is to generate funds, so it requires a lot of investment in not just a laboratory but a laboratory for major research,” said Ogunsola.

The UNILAG vice-chancellor added, “Those are not cheap. We are in that transition phase where the government cannot continue to do everything for us. How it will pan out will require the right policies and all of us having a change in mindset. How we were before is no longer sustainable to take us to the future.

“For sure, the present funding model will have to be examined. It is not working. The university took a large brunt of the fee hike, but we are employees and have to be properly funded. We have to think about how to fund the university so that our children will be competitive in the workspace. 2023 was a year for us to examine our educational system, and it’s a journey, and we will continue to work on that.”

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FEatures

T H I S D AY • WEDNESday DECEMBER 27, 2023

Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi Email: chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com, 07010510430

Rakiya Abubakar: Steering NAFOWA in Its Service to Humanity In what has been termed laudable transformational strides, the Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association, NAFOWA, under the leadership of its president, Arch Mrs. Rakiya Abubakar, has been rendering service to humanity. Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that with its five decades of legacy, the association has been empowering members, dependents of serving personnel, as well as the less privileged in their respective host communities

Mrs. Abubakar leading a walk against breast cancer

NAFOWA President (left) during a medical health outreach

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hey might not be dressed in the uniform of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) personnel or protect the aerial territorial integrity of the nation, but the Nigerian Air Force Officers' Wives Association (NAFOWA), are every bit as important as their men, because they are the engine room that drives the service.

When the non-governmental organisation was set up over five decades ago, the core objective was to render service to humanity.

This objective has been taken a notch higher by the present administration of Arch. Mrs. Rakiya Abubakar, wife of the current Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar.

From a small group that began in 1967, these women have become stronger and much more formidable and have grown to become pillars of their communities by touching and empowering the lives of their members, widows, orphans and indigents in their respective communities.

Essentially, NAFOWA was established to promote interaction and welfare programs for the poor, less privileged and vulnerable in the society.

In line with its motto, ‘Service to Humanity’, NAFOWA has over the years, empowered women, widows, youths, and the underprivileged through its humanitarian and empowerment activities which cuts across skills acquisition programs, barracks youth empowerment schemes, medical and educational outreaches among others.

The New Face of NAFOWA Since its inception in 1967, NAFOWA has had 19 National Presidents with the incumbent, Mrs. Rakiya Abubakar as the 20th President As the new face of NAFOWA, Architect (Mrs) Rakiya Abubakar assumed office in June 2023 and since then, her focus has been to comprehensively impact the lives of personnel dependents and the less privileged while caring for widows of deceased military personnel through initiatives in education, health, skill acquisition and vocational trainings.

Given her commitment to providing effective and efficient leadership, Mrs. Abubakar clearly understands the daunting task before her, which she faced headlong with zeal and determination.

But beyond this, she effected 100 per cent increment of NAFOWA supervisors allowance to cushion effect of subsidy removal; successfully facilitated the renewed hope initiative grant of N250,000 each to 187 Nigerian Air Force widows and orphans; purchased and installed 65KVA Generator at NAFOWA event centre Ikeja, as well as entered a successful partnership with Beautiful Gate Handicapped People Jos, to produce 600 tricycle wheelchairs for distribution to people living with disabilities in the six geopolitical zones.

Mrs. Abubakar with the donation of wheelchairs and foodstuff to indigent communities and empathy for the less privileged, Mrs Abubakar also established the NAFOWA Special Needs School in Abuja with the aim of ensuring children with disability enjoy the same and equal privileges and opportunities other children enjoy.

Succor for the Disabled, Less Privileged Recently, as part of her efforts at alleviating the challenges faced by vulnerable communitiesand in tandem with the association’s objective. Mrs Abubakar showcased unparalleled compassion and empathy as NAFOWA under her watch organised a humanitarian outreach program aimed at supporting individuals with disabilities as well as the less privileged in Kano.

The event which took place at the Nigerian Air Force Base Kano witnessed the distribution of 105 tricycle wheelchairs, 25kg bags of rice, 5kg of beans, five litres of groundnut oil and condiments to 100 beneficiaries from Kano State.

While presenting the items, Mrs Abubakar expressed her deep sense of gratitude and fulfillment at being able to organise such a meaningful event.

She also stated that NAFOWA believes in the power of unity and compassion and will therefore continue to empower the less privileged through its humanitarian activities.

According to her, the outreach program was aimed at creating an environment of inclusivity and support for individuals with disabilities in Kano while hoping that the donations will bring some relief and a renewed sense of hope to those facing unique challenges.

Improving Quality of NAFOWA Schools With her track records of achievements as a university lecturer, Mrs. Abubakar’s desire to reshape the general outlook of all NAFOWA schools and improve the quality of education cannot be overemphasised.

One of the first steps she took was touring some NAFOWA Schools across the country to get first-hand knowledge of its current status.

Her aim was to ensure that all NAFOWA Schools are repositioned to compete favorably with other private and public schools in Nigeria and beyond.

She also facilitated the purchase and installation of 20 industrial sewing and weaving machines at NAFOWA tailoring workshop for continuous production of school uniforms and ensured the successful conduct of refresher training on classroom management for all teaching staff of NAFOWA schools.

She went further to equip and grant approval for the commencement of Primary 4 arms at NAFOWA Little Angels School Asokoro Abuja and completed renovation of structure with modern fittings of NAFOWA Little Angels School Bill Clinton Drive, Abuja as well as complete renovation of admin block of NAFOWA vocational centre Ikeja with infrastructural maintenance and repair at NAFOWA Little Angels School, Maiduguri.

NAFOWA Special Needs School Widely known for her calm demeanor

Fighting Cancer the NAFOWA Way It could be recalled that, In commemoration

of the 2023 Breast World Cancer Awareness Month held in October 2023, NAFOWA under the leadership of Mrs. Abubakar joined other well-meaning individuals, corporate and government entities worldwide to beam attention and raise awareness about the ravaging disease.

To commemorate this year’s awareness month, the association organised a one-day health walk, lecture and free cancer screening exercise in Abuja early in October 2023.

Speaking at the lecture with the theme, “Routine Checkup, a Panacea for Early Detection, Mrs Abubakar disclosed that in 2020 alone, available statistics by the World Health Organisation (WHO) revealed that about 78,899 cancer-related deaths were recorded in Nigeria while women often bear the brunt as breast and cervical cancers account for over 40 per cent of all cancer-related deaths.

These statistics were, according to her, disturbing hence the need to pay greater attention and create awareness on the benefits of early detection, which is critical to the survivability of cancer patients.

The NAFOWA President also announced the approval of free cancer screening for wives of Air Force personnel and other Services on October 9, 2023 as well as 50 per cent discount for others from October 10 to 17, 2023 at the NAFOWA Cancer Screening Centre situated at NAF Base Abuja.

According to the Director of Public Relations Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, NAFOWA remains at the forefront of advocating for the well-being of women, youths and children.

Aside its numerous poverty alleviation and empowerment schemes, it has, since 2008, established the NAFOWA Cancer Screening Centre which has continued to play a major role in the early detection of breast cancer among women, he divulged.

About Mrs. Rakiya Abubakar Born in Kano State, Mrs. Abubakar is a native of Toro Local Government Area of Bauchi State. She attended Unique Nursery and Primary School Kaduna and Federal Government College Bauchi State.

She holds BSc and MSc Degrees in Architecture both from the prestigious Ahmadu Bello University Zaria. She did her National Youth Service in Benin City, Edo State in 2008 and is currently a Ph.D. student in University of Salford, Manchester, England.

Mrs Abubakar has attended several conferences both in and out of the country and has published several articles and journals. She is married to Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar and the union is blessed with children.

Although her hobbies include reading and travelling, the NAFOWA's National President's top priority is to bridge the gap and reduce women dependency on the society.

37

T H I S D AY • WEDNESday DECEMBER 27, 2023

entrepreneur

Tolu Onile-Ere: Spotlighting Digital Success in Nigeria

Tolu Onile-Ere, Managing Director of Playhouse Communication Limited, a qualified lawyer, chose Marketing as his career path, as this allowed him to express his creative side. However, he stumbled on digital and got hooked by the potential, so he set up Playhouse, a digital communications agency back in 2011. Twelve years down the lane, the firm has grown to become one of Nigeria’s leading digital agencies. In this interview with Mary Nnah, he talks about his firm’s digital creative economy initiative, “The StoryStoryHub”, which celebrates the growing contributions of the digital creative industry to the nation’s economy, launched recently in commemoration of the firm’s 12th anniversary

C

an you tell us about the recent initiative, “The StoryStoryHub”, launched by Playhouse Communication Limited as part of its 12th anniversary?

As an agency, we like to just try stuff. We have built a site that tracks which emoji is the most used in Nigeria; we have tried to create a ranking scale for plantain chips and we set up our podcast last year to have conversations around digital and tech in Nigeria, Africa and beyond. So this year, we were just thinking of telling our story to mark our anniversary and as we worked on it, we thought it was interesting and that some people might find it useful. And that made us think of all the stories that exist out there. So, we thought, let's share ours, invite others to share theirs and let's keep the story of the digital creative economy going.

Besides, as you do with most anniversaries, you spend time navel gazing and looking at where you have come from and where you now are. So we were looking back and came across a video we produced 10 years ago called Shey You Sabi. The video was about highlighting some insights into the Nigerian digital scene. And looking at it, it was amazing just how far the Nigerian digital landscape has grown in the 10 years.

So, we thought it would be interesting to tell our story as that ties into the development of the digital ecosystem – and to get others to share theirs as well. So we can see how the digital creative economy has impacted Nigerians. So, we’ve set up StoryStoryHub to collect these stories.

What motivated "the StoryStoryHub" and how does it connect to both "Tales by Moonlight" and celebrate the contributions of the digital creative industry to Nigeria's economy and renaissance?

I’m glad to say that the motivation for StoryStoryHub was the fact that the Nigerian digital landscape has progressed over the last 12 years – and Playhouse has progressed with it. So, it is a celebration of the growth and the positive impact. And we wanted to share our story in case it can inspire others. And we’re trying to collect other people’s stories to show the progress of the digital landscape.

The tie-in with Tales by Moonlight is because the way we have traditionally captured our history and shared it is by telling each other stories. And so as we look to celebrate the Nigerian Digital Creative economy, tying it to storytelling just felt culturally right.

What is the strategy behind Playhouse's success in the digital space, and how does it aim to maintain brand presence and leadership?

That would be giving away our secrets. But what I can say is that we believe in creating strong partnerships with the brands that allow us to work with them. We work on building understanding and trust so that our clients feel that we are part of their team. Our client list includes MTN Nigeria, Pernod Ricard, ExxonMobil, AAVA Brands (Lucozade) & Stanbic IBTC. You have won five awards. What do these awards mean to you and how do these recognitions reflect the company's pioneering role in the digital marketing industry?

Yes, we have won several awards including The Marketing Edge Digital Agency of the Year 2019, 2021 and 2022 and most recently, The Marketing Edge Outstanding Digital Agency of the Decade, 2023. As an agency, we set out to do great work for our clients.

That has always been our focus so we see the awards as recognition of that – not of us as pioneers but rather of the great work we do for our clients.

Again, awards serve as validation for the hard work, creativity, and dedication of our

early phases. We also consider success to be measured in terms of benefits beyond money.

The encouraging stories we've selected and the platform's good reception are proof of the value it offers to our audience. StoryStoryHub will not only enhance the reputation of our brand but also open up new avenues for growth in the future.

To sum up, our definition of profitability has a broad perspective that takes into account monetary stability, customer happiness, team fulfilment, and the beneficial effects of projects like StoryStoryHub. We are dedicated to longterm development, meaningful endeavours, and leaving a legacy of significant contributions as we negotiate the ever-changing terrain of the digital creative economy.

What impact has StoryStoryHub made so far on the digital community?

Right now, it has only just launched so it is too early to judge the impact it has made.

What we are pleased with is the positive response to the stories we have so far been able to curate. The overwhelming response has been that the stories are inspiring.

Onilere team. They affirm that our approach to digital marketing and storytelling is not only effective but also recognized by our peers and industry experts.

More importantly, awards motivate us to continually raise the bar, push creative boundaries, and maintain the high standards that have garnered such recognition. They are a source of pride for our team and a testament to the positive impact we strive to make in the digital marketing space.

You have been lined up for activities celebrating the 12th anniversary of Playhouse in grand style. Can you tell us more about Playhouse and why reaching 12 years is a big deal?

Playhouse is a digital marketing agency based in Lagos. We believe that successful brands need to create communications that engage. And we believe that digital offers a cost-effective platform for creating and maintaining this dialogue. It should be noted that we don’t do technology for technology’s sake. So at the core of all we do is “The Idea” - The Idea that inspires and connects a brand with its audience so that they willingly give their time. So that they invite the brand into their space and enter into a conversation. We believe that’s where every brand wants to be – talking with their customers rather than at them.

With regards to our 12 anniversary and the celebrations, 12 isn't in itself a milestone anniversary or anything like that. We just believe that each anniversary is something to be marked and celebrated. We've had quiet ones and we've had bigger ones, like this year's anniversary. This year we just had the idea of sharing the story of our

journey and as we looked back, we started wondering what stories other people might have about the digital creative economy - and so, we thought let's share ours and encourage others to share theirs.

There seems to be a correlation between “Onile-Ere” and the name of the company, “Playhouse”. Tell us about it.

Yes, there is. I am Yoruba and the translation of my surname is the owner of the house of fun. And so when I was setting up the agency, Playhouse seemed suitable because it was a translation of my name but it also captured the culture I wanted to create in the agency.

How much profit is Playhouse as a business and the StoryStoryHub bringing in?

As the Managing Director of Playhouse, I appreciate the interest in our business and the recent launch of StoryStoryHub. When assessing the profitability of Playhouse, I'd like to offer a perspective that goes beyond traditional financial metrics.

First off, we don't just focus on profitability at the bottom line. Our top priorities include adding value for our clients, developing a stimulating and rewarding work environment for our staff, and having a good influence in the digital space - all of which are closely related to financial sustainability. We think that a comprehensive approach to business is the key to measuring true success.

We have managed our finances in a way that enables us to compensate our skilled staff fairly, make investments in continuous learning and development, and execute initiatives like StoryStoryHub. Our strategy for profitability is in line with the idea of "enough"—having the means to support the expansion and innovation of our team in addition to maintaining the business.

About StoryStoryHub, we are enthusiastic about its potential, even though it is still in its

How does it connect with Tales by Moonlight?

The connection is the idea of storytelling.

Culturally, storytelling has been the way we pass down our history, build our communities and share learning. Historically, these stories weren't necessarily written down but now technology allows us to capture them as video. But at the core is still the idea of telling the story.

How do you plan to establish a lasting presence in the digital space?

Our sustainability strategy revolves around maintaining a balance between creativity, client satisfaction, and financial responsibility. We focus on delivering quality work that adds value to our client's business, ensuring their continued trust and partnership. Additionally, we stay adaptable to industry trends, invest in our team's professional development, and explore innovative projects like StoryStoryHub to keep our brand relevant and dynamic in the ever-evolving digital space.

How do you see this initiative empowering young people?

StoryStoryHub serves as a platform not only for sharing our experiences but also for encouraging others, especially the youth, to share their stories in the digital creative economy. By providing a space for diverse narratives and insights, we aim to inspire, educate, and empower the younger generation to explore and contribute to the digital space.

What difficulties have you encountered so far, and what are your approaches to overcome them?

Challenges are inevitable in the dynamic field of digital marketing. We've encountered issues ranging from staying ahead of technological advancements to maintaining a balance between creativity and practicality.

Our strategy involves fostering a culture of continuous learning within our team, staying agile in response to industry shifts, and being open to experimentation. Embracing challenges as opportunities for growth is key to overcoming them.

Where do you see Playhouse in the

five to ten years?

In the coming years, we envision Playhouse as a next In the coming years, we envision Playhouse a leading force in the digital marketing leading force in the digital marketing landscape, aslandscape, known for innovative and impactcampaigns. We plan to expand our reach known for innovative and impactful campaigns. ful globally, forge new partnerships, and continue the boundaries of digital creativity.

We plan to expand our reach globally, forge pushing Our focus will remain on delivering value to new partnerships, and continue pushing the clients, nurturing a creative and collaborative work environment, and adapting to emerging boundaries of digital creativity trends in the industry.

38

T H I S D AY • WEDNESday, December 27, 2023

FOREIGN DESK

Compiled by Bayo Akinloye

Netizens Call China’s Official Character of the Year, ‘Zhen’, ‘Fake’ He also said the Houthis had carried out a military operation targeting Eilat and other areas in Israel, which he referred to as occupied Palestine. He did not say whether any of the targets were successfully hit.

China last week announced that “zhen” — a term officially defined as “self-inspire” — is the Chinese character of the year. The reaction online has been less than enthusiastic.

China conducts an annual survey to choose characters and words that reflect the public’s prevailing sentiment or buzzworthy developments regarding the outgoing year. The government officially approved the final list, but not everyone on China’s highly censored internet celebrated the picks.

“Fake and empty,” said one message on the Chinese social media platform Weibo.

A Weibo blogger announced that his Chinese character of the year is “Hao,” meaning “so,” and that his words of the year are “so cold,” “so poor,” “so sleepy,” “so tired,” “so hungry,” “so boring,” “so cold,” “so poor” and “so sleepy.”

Chinese state media said in the December 20 announcement the pick of “zhen” reflects the success of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, people’s love of sports and low-cost tourism, and China’s resilience.

An article from China state media said, “The road ahead will be full of dangers and bumps.

Whether it is a country or an individual, if you remain true to your heart when faced with challenges, persevere in the face of wind and rain, and gain every inch of joy, you will be worthy of the character ‘Zhen’.”

High Rice Prices Worldwide Likely to Continue into 2024

Arnong Mungoei has farmed rice in Thailand’s Khon Kaen province for half a century.

Working land some 500km northeast of Bangkok never made her rich, but it provided a dependable livelihood.

But since February 2022, when Russia invaded Ukraine, global geopolitical tensions and weather conditions elsewhere have upended the rice markets, and by 2023, worldwide rice prices had exploded.

Yet Arnong said she made less than she has in years.

“The mills (that buy rice) don’t increase the price. What can I do? I bring rice there to sell.

Whatever they offer us, we have to sell it. We won’t take the rice back because we had to pay for the truck,” said Arnong, 68.

In 2023, the prices of wheat and grains such as oats and corn declined 20 per cent to 30 per cent as stocks were replenished, according to an annual report from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.

According to the FAO report, rice prices remained high throughout the year due to a persistent La Niña in March, followed by an El Niño anomaly in June and India imposing restrictions on non-basmati rice in July due to a late monsoon raised fears of a production shortfall.

India’s export control removed 9 million metric tons of grain from the international market and ignited global prices. India is responsible for 40% of global rice supplies after overtaking Thailand as the world’s largest rice exporter in 2011.

Indian Navy Bolsters Arabian Sea Forces After Attacks

India’s navy said it is deploying three warships and reconnaissance aircraft in the Arabian Sea to “maintain a deterrent presence” after a string of recent shipping attacks.

Three guided-missile destroyers and P8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft were being deployed following “the recent spate of attacks in the Arabian Sea,” it said in a statement late Monday.

Washington accused Tehran of carrying out a drone attack Saturday on the MV Chem Pluto tanker 370km off the coast of India, claims Iran’s foreign ministry dubbed “worthless.”

It was the first time Washington has openly accused Iran of directly targeting ships since the start of Israel’s war on the Palestinian militant group Hamas, which is backed by Tehran.

The Liberian-flagged and Japanese-owned MV Chem Pluto was moored off India’s port of Mumbai on Monday.

Pakistan Court Restores Jailed Ex-PM Khan’s Party Election Symbol

A high court in Pakistan allowed former

Ukraine Strikes Russian Ship in Crimea

prime minister Imran Khan’s party Tuesday to use its iconic cricket bat logo as an election symbol, a crucial legal victory for the jailed leader ahead of national polls in February.

Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, or PTI, was stripped of the symbol by the Election Commission of Pakistan, or ECP, citing irregularities in the party’s internal elections. PTI leaders rejected the decision as illegal and a “shameful attempt” to stop the country’s largest political force from contesting elections.

“Today, the election commission’s decision against PTI, in which its election symbol, the cricket bat, was unjustly revoked through an illegal and unconstitutional order, has been suspended,” PTI lawyer Syed Ali Zafar told reporters outside the court in the northwestern city of Peshawar, where the party filed its appeal.

The court directed the electoral watchdog, in its ruling, to reinstate PTI’s cricket bat symbol “keeping in view the urgency that a political party has been denuded of its symbol, meaning hereby that aspirants from the general public who were willing to vote for the petitioners’ party were divested of their right to vote as per their choice.”

Election symbols are essential campaign tools for identifying candidates on ballot papers in Pakistan, a country with a population of about 241 million people and an adult literacy rate of about 60%.

Iran Resumes Pace of 60% Uranium Enrichment, IAEA Says

Iran has resumed enriching uranium at a similar rate as at the start of the year, the IAEA said Tuesday, as the country accelerates its nuclear program while denying it is developing a bomb.

Iran has “increased its production of highly enriched uranium, reversing a previous output reduction from mid-2023,” the International Atomic Energy Agency said in a statement.

Iran has increased its production of 60% enriched uranium to a rate of about 9 kilograms (20 pounds) a month since the end of November. The IAEA said that was up from about 3 kilograms a month since June and a return to the 9 kilograms a month it was producing during the first half of 2023.

“On 19 and 24 December, IAEA inspectors verified the rate of production of uranium enriched to this level at the two facilities where Iran is carrying out these activities — the Natanz Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant and the Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant,” it said.

Nuclear weapons require uranium enriched to 90%, while 3.67% is enough for nuclear power stations.

Iran appeared to have slowed its enrichment as a gesture while informal talks for a nuclear treaty with the United States had resumed.

But animosity between the two countries has intensified in recent months, with each one accusing the other of exacerbating the war between Israel and Hamas.

US, Mexican Officials to Meet Amid Rise in Regional Migration

U.S. and Mexican officials are due to meet Wednesday in Mexico City to discuss what the White House has described as a dramatic increase in the flow of migrants through the region in recent months.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, and White House Homeland Security adviser Liz Sherwood-Randall are representing the U.S. side, with Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador hosting the talks.

Speaking to reporters Friday, López Obrador said Mexico and the United States would continue to work together, highlighting the need to have migration proceed in an orderly manner and to address the root causes of what makes people leave their homes. He said the phenomenon of migration is not by choice but by necessity.

Mexico’s foreign ministry said in a statement that Wednesday’s meeting represents an opportunity to reaffirm cooperation on migration matters, including the expansion of legal pathways for migrants.

Mexico agreed in May to take in migrants from countries such as Venezuela, Nicaragua and Cuba who were turned away from the U.S. border for not following rules providing pathways to asylum or other forms of migration.

Yemen’s Houthis Claim Red Sea Container Ship Attack

Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi militia claimed responsibility for a missile attack on Tuesday on a container ship in the Red Sea and for an attempt to attack Israel with drones.

MSC Mediterranean Shipping said there were no injuries to its crew from the attack on its ship, the United VIII, en route from Saudi Arabia to Pakistan. It said the ship had informed a nearby coalition naval warship that it had come under attack and had taken evasive manoeuvres.

Israel said separately that its aircraft had intercepted a hostile aerial target in the Red Sea area. Houthi military spokesman Yahya Sarea said in a televised address the group had targeted the vessel, which he identified as the MSC United after the crew failed to respond to warnings.

Ukrainian forces struck a Russian naval landing ship in Crimea on Tuesday, inflicting another blow to Russia’s Black Sea fleet.

The Ukrainian air force said it used cruise missiles and that the attack destroyed the Novocherkassk.

Yurii Ihnat, the spokesperson of Ukraine’s Air Forces Command, told VOA the Ukrainian military had information about the ship’s location and cargo and Russian air defences protecting the region.Ihnat called the attack “an extremely difficult operation because it is not easy to sink such a ship.”

Ukraine’s military is getting better at delivering high-precision strikes, Ihnat said, adding that Russia “is losing, little by little, the Black Sea fleet and its influence in the Black Sea.” Ihnat said he could not confirm whether the Novocherkassk was carrying Iranian-made drones but said that could not be ruled out, nor whether the ship had ammunition Russia had received from its allies for use in Ukraine.

The Russian defence ministry said the Ukrainian attack damaged the Novocherkassk at a base in Feodosia.

Sweden Edges Closer to NATO after Vote in Turkish Parliamentary Commission

The Turkish parliament’s foreign affairs commission approved Sweden’s NATO membership bid on Tuesday, a key step toward enlarging the Western bloc after 19 months of delays in which Ankara demanded security-related concessions from Stockholm.

The commission, controlled by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s ruling AK Party, voted to back the bid - which Sweden made last year in the face of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine - after some four hours of debate, including talks on other matters.

It had postponed a vote on the bid after an earlier debate.

The next step is a vote in the parliament general assembly, where Erdogan’s party holds a majority. It is also expected to pass in a vote that could be held within weeks. Erdogan would then sign it into law, concluding a process that has frustrated some of Ankara’s allies and tested its Western ties.

Commission head Fuat Oktay played down expectations for a speedy vote in the general assembly, telling reporters in parliament that the parliament speaker would decide on the timing for the vote.

Indian Navy Bolsters Arabian Sea Forces After Attacks

India’s navy said it is deploying three warships and reconnaissance aircraft in the Arabian Sea to “maintain a deterrent presence” after a string of recent shipping attacks.

Three guided-missile destroyers and P8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft were being deployed following “the recent spate of attacks in the Arabian Sea,” it said in a statement late Monday.

Washington accused Tehran of carrying out a drone attack Saturday on the MV Chem Pluto tanker 370km off the coast of India, claims Iran’s foreign ministry dubbed “worthless.”

It was the first time Washington has openly accused Iran of directly targeting ships since the start of Israel’s war on the Palestinian militant group Hamas, which is backed by Tehran.

The Liberian-flagged and Japanese-owned MV Chem Pluto was moored off India’s port of Mumbai on Monday.

“Analysis of the area of attack and debris found on the ship points towards a drone attack,” India’s navy said, adding “further forensic and technical analysis will be required.”

39

THISDAY • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2023

polity

Yuletide: Excitement, Commendations Trail Tinubu’s Transport Subsidy N Segun Tomori

igerians from all walks of life are thrilled by the Presidential intervention mitigating the high cost of transport this festive season.

Cross-country travelling to see loved ones at the end of the year has been the norm for Nigerians, for decades, irrespective of religious inclinations. Therefore, the far-reaching effect of discounted inter-state bus fares and free train rides on the citizenry, cannot be overemphasised.

In announcing the Federal Government’s gesture last Wednesday, the chairman of the Yuletide transport subsidy inter-ministerial committee and Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake had revealed that from 21st December 2023 to 4th January, 2024, Nigerians will enjoy a 50% discount on inter-state bus transport along 22 major routes, while the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC) will be offering free train rides within the same period, in what is now widely acclaimed as a novel, pro-masses initiative by any Federal Government in Nigeria’s history.

With a target of lifting 5 million commuters this season, government is partnering with major transport companies like Good is Good (GIG) motors, Chisco Transport, Young Shall Grow, God Bless Ezenwata and Area Motor. In view of high demand across the country, the routes have since been scaled up from 22 to 28 while citizens travelling from Lagos - Nigeria’s commercial hub, to other states like Akure and Ilorin via mini buses from the Oshodi bus interchange, are also beneficiaries.

It will be recalled that the attendant effect of fuel subsidy removal has led to skyrocketing transport fares which has necessitated palliatives from government to cushion its effect. Feedback from citizens across the country have indicated that this transport subsidy has the most significant impact, thus far.

Deborah, at the God is Good Motors (GIGM)

President Bola Tinubu

Park in Ajah Lagos, captured the mood of passengers across the country. “I’m travelling from Ajah here in Lagos. I’m going to Benin and I just received my 50% discount palliative from the Federal Government (displaying her receipt), and I’m so excited. Thank you so much, Mr. President! Ebele, travelling from Mararaba, Abuja aboard the GIGM bus to

Edo state captured his excitement thus, “It’s a good feeling. I got the refund of 50% of my fares. I had paid N36,800 initially but I got half of that back. This is a real palliative and I’m grateful to President Bola Tinubu.

Another commuter, Lucky travelling from Mararaba, Abuja to Owerri, Imo State had this to say, “ The original fare was N32,300

but on getting here, they said the President has given us a 50% discount and they refunded it back to me. I just received my own alert. Long live the President, Long live Nigeria!

Impact stories also abound from train commuters along the Lagos-Ibadan, Abuja-Kaduna routes.

A twitter user @ayotem4real had tweeted, “Just got two free train tickets ( Lagos - Ibadan) for my son and mum. En route to the Babatunde Fashola station.Thank you, Mr. President”. A passenger aboard the Idu train station in Abuja to Kaduna revealed that “For those who have validated their names, it’s a smooth ride from the Idu train station in Abuja”.

Another elderly commuter aboard the Idu train station to Kaduna, showered encomiums on the President. “ Thank God, the President has offered this free ride to us from Abuja to Kaduna and for others across the country. The President is now trying but some are trying to sabotage the system.

They will not succeed. My prayer is that Nigeria will be better. When government is making efforts, it shall affect all Nigerians and I say thanks to government. They should keep it up”.

In just 48 hours since the commencement of the subsidised transport scheme, the implementation has been impressive across the country, it will only get better as the days progress. It should also be noted that after the holidays, Nigerians can take advantage of the discounted rates to return to their respective bases, on or before 4th January, 2024.

With this palliative that is touching lives, down to the grassroots, it is apparent that President Tinubu is deeply committed to the welfare of the people and working round the clock for their shared prosperity. An apt message can be deduced from this intervention - enjoy your holidays!

•Segun Tomori* is the Special Assistant on Media to the Chairman of the Yuletide Transport subsidy Inter-ministerial committee and Minister of Solid Minerals Development

NEWS

Imo Communities Move for Abolition of Caste System in Igboland Tony Icheku in Owerri Two autonomous communities in Imo State, Amurie Omanze and Oboro Amurie would on January 4, 2024 set the tone for abolition of the caste system in the South-east geo-political zone as it discards the decades-old practice which classifies

some of the communities as second class citizens.

In a press statement, the traditional rulers of Amurie Omanze and Oboro Amurie, respectively, Eze Nnajiemere and Eze Ahamefule Durugwoegebu IV stated that on January 4, 2024, the caste systems of Osu, Ume, Ohu and Diala

would cease to exist in the two autonomous communities carved out from old Amurie Omanze ancient community in Isu council of the State.

The caste system in Igboland came to international attention through Nigerian acclaimed novelist, Chinua Achebe, who depicted the

practice in ‘No Longer at Ease’, one of his widely read trilogies.

The practice, significantly forbids inter-marriage between the Osu, Ohu, Ume and Diala caste and other members of the community (where it exists) described as freeborn.

In a related development, the human rights organisations, Pillars

Salary Delay: Matawalle Intervenes as Soldiers Get Paid

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has intervened in the controversial delay in the payment of December salary for soldiers.

A statement issued by the Ministry of Defence said the intervention was consummated in the spirit of the Christmas celebration.

It said the minister’s intervention came in the heat of non-payment of December salary to the soldiers.

It stated that: “In recognition of the critical nature of the matter, Matawalle engaged in collaborative efforts with the Accountant-General of the Federation and the AGF partnered effectively with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to expedite the resolution of the salary payment delay”.

The statement signed by the Director of Press, Henshaw Ogubike, said contrary to some reports, “we can confirm that payments have commenced”.

It said the minister, who personally made all necessary contacts with the

authorities in charge of payment of salary said the military officers can now celebrate with their loved ones as their salaries have started dropping into their accounts.

While thanking the concerned authorities for the prompt payment of December salary after his intervention, he commended the military for their dedication and commitment to their duties despite the initial challenge in the payment

of their December salary.

“I hope the payment will boost your morale to carry on your constitutional duty of protecting the nation”, he said.

The minister further said that he would continually use his good office to promote the well being of the Nigerian military.

“As the minister of state for defence, I am aware of the sacrifices made daily by our brave men and

women of the Armed Forces in ensuring the safety and security of our nation.

“Your dedication, resilience and commitment to duty serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration to us all,” he said.

He charged all Nigerians irrespective of their religion to pray for the military personnel, who are out there protecting the citizenry and the territorial integrity of our nation.

of Hope Africa Initiative, (POHAI), POHAI, G’naira Family Foundation (GFF) and Kemdi Chino Opera Foundation, (KCOF) in their respective reactions applauded the action as a reward for long years of efforts to abolish the caste systems in the South East communities where it exists.

The Executive Director of POHAI, Chinyere Oge-Kalu, said that the abolishment of the caste systems in the two communities was a fruit of years of advocacy by the organisations.

She expressed confidence that more communities in Imo State and the entire Igbo land will soon abolish the reprehensible caste systems, which according to her dehumanises fellow compatriots as second class citizens or /outcasts Nnajiemere and Durugwoegebu IV in their statements explained that the decision to end the caste system was made in agreement

Yobe CAN Honours Buni with ‘Inclusive Governance’ Award Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Yobe state Council has awarded Governor Mai Mala Buni with the “Inclusive Governance” award for his administration’s fairness to all ethnic, cultural and religious backgrounds.

Yobe state CAN Chairman, Bishop Yohanna Audu, and leaders of the association presented the award to the governor yesterday during a Christmas homage to him at the

Government House, Damaturu.

“You won this prestigious award because of your style of leadership that carries everybody along irrespective of tribe, region, or religion,” Audu said.

The association commended Buni for appointing people from all faiths and ethnic backgrounds into his administration.

It also commended the governor for his commitment to peace and peaceful coexistence in the state where adherents of the various

religions coexist peacefully with love and trust.

The association said in preparation for Christmas, it organised a unity carol with participants from the six North-eastern states at a time when the Muslims were having the National Quranic recitation competition.

“This is a clear demonstration of the peace, trust, and tolerance we have in the state under your able leadership,” the association said.

It also lauded the Yobe state

government for providing bulls during festivals, palliative to the less privileged, awards of scholarship for foreign students, and allocation of slots for pilgrimage to its members.

Responding, Buni assured the association of more opportunities to all persons irrespective of religion, ethnic or cultural backgrounds.

He said the responsibility of building a peaceful society rests on everyone, urging the religious leaders to always preach peace among their followers.

with key community leaders.

He said these included village heads, kindred union chairmen, town union representatives, religious bodies, clergy, and diaspora union representatives, all of whom appended their consent to the abrogation document drawn up to draw the curtain on the obnoxious practice.

Nnajiemere, while acknowledging the advocacy by various human rights organisations and community stakeholders, noted that the formal abrogation would mark an important milestone in the community’s progress toward a more inclusive and fair society.

“For the past three years, our community has been embroiled in unnecessary conflicts and skirmishes over whether to abolish these discriminatory cultural practices.

They are remnants of stone-age practices that are an affront to the 21st-century global social order,” lamented Eze Nnajiemere.

The royal father added that an abolition committee, which was constituted three years ago, has been instrumental in driving the change which was arrived at after a comprehensive campaign involving individual and villageto-village consultations.

“For the past three years, our community has been embroiled in unnecessary conflicts and skirmishes over whether to abolish these discriminatory cultural practices.

They are remnants of stone-age practices that are an affront to the 21st-century global social order,” Nnajiemere stressed.

40

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2023 • T H I S D AY

forty

Insecurity: Let's Unite against Our Common Enemies, Defence Chief Charges Nigerians Safe, secure nation in sight, says Air Force chief

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja and Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto

The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, in his Christmas message to the nation, yesterday charged the citizenry to unite against the common enemies of the nation.

His charge came as the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, stated that the prospect of a safe and secure Nigeria was in sight as long as the Armed Forces of Nigeria continue to collectively keep their ‘eyes on the ball’ in getting the job done.

He spoke even as the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, celebrated Christmas with the frontline troops of Joint Task Force (JTF) North East (NE) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), at Headquarters 27 Task Force Brigade Buni-Gari Yobe State.

The defence chief called for unity

of the nation and support for the Armed Forces.

"As we join the global celebration of Christmas and New Year, I express sincere gratitude to the Armed Forces of Nigeria ( AFN) and Nigerians for unwavering commitment. May the festive spirit bind us as one, and the warmth of shared destiny resonate beyond this season.

"My fervent prayer is that, as we revel, we align with Christ's teachings of peace, love, and harmony.

Acknowledging the sacrifices of our uniformed heroes defending our nation, let us face challenges with unity and courage. Your bravery will not go unnoticed, and we commit to continuous support", he said.

He added: "Seizing this moment, I call on all Nigerians to unite against common enemies. Support our motivated AFN, steadfast in defending our nation's integrity.

"As we bid farewell to the year, look to the New Year with renewed hope. Stay vigilant and resolute in protecting our nation. With the commitment of all Nigerians, we will secure our dear nation," he said.

Meanwhile, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, said the prospect of a safe and secured Nigeria was in sight, as long as the Armed Forces of Nigeria continue to collectively keep their ‘eyes on the ball’ in getting the job done.

He also noted that aside kinetic means of curbing the current security challenges confronting the country, the synergy of efforts drawn from a whole-of-society approach remains the best approach in winning the hearts and minds of Nigerians as well as speedily defeating the threats posed by terrorists and other non-state actors in all ramifications.

Abubakar spoke while in Maiduguri to attend a Christmas luncheon organised for the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK).

The CAS said the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), on its part, had continued to engage with societal groups within the areas of operation through medical outreaches and welfare advocacies.

He also stated that under his watch, NAF personnel at the frontlines were continually reminded and trained on the Law of Armed Conflict, Rules of Engagement and strict observance of human rights in line with the United Nations Charter on Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Similarly, he added, pilots, engineers and other technicians were availed of several safety management lessons and techniques to minimize risks associated with

ongoing air operations.

Also, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lagbaja, celebrated Christmas with the frontline troops of Joint Task Force (JTF) North East (NE) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), at Headquarters 27 Task Force Brigade Buni-Gari Yobe State.

The Christmas luncheon was organised to share a moment of joy with the frontline troops, in order to boost their morale and equally interact freely with them in the theatre of operations.

The event was equally conceived to create an atmosphere where officers and soldiers would meet outside the trenches due to the current operations to wine, dine and not to relent, but continuously build on the successes recorded so far.

While reading out his Christmas message to the troops, the COAS stated that "Over 50,000 of our

Incensed by Plateau Xmas Eve Carnage, Tinubu Orders Security to Go After Killers

Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha, Onyebuchi Ezigbo, Sunday Aborisade, Juliet Akoje, Folalumi Alaran in Abuja, Hammed Shittu in Ilorin, Seriki Adinoyi in Jos, Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi, Laleye Dipo in Minna and Wale Igbintade in Lagos

Angered by the Christmas eve attacks on Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi local government areas of Plateau State, which officially left 79 people dead, President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, issued a stern directive to the security agencies to halt the carnage and go after the perpetrators.

Tinubu spoke during a meeting with the Nigeria Governors' Forum (NGF) at his Lagos residence.

The president declared that the federal and state governments had a joint responsibility to ensure peace and stability in the country.

Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, condemned the incident, and lamented that it was disheartening to continue to lose lives to senseless and unprovoked attacks.

Many prominent Nigerians and groups, including Nigeria

Governors' Forum (NGF), northern leaders, including their governors and senators, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, and Amnesty International, also yesterday, condemned the attacks.

The Plateau State police command, while releasing details of the attacks, yesterday, put the casualty figure at over 79. But majority of observers, in and outside the state, claimed the dead persons were over 140.

Tinubu condoled with the victims and emphasised the sanctity of human life. He called for a paradigm shift among those with contrary beliefs, cautioning them about the inevitable consequences of their actions.

Talking to the governors, the president said, "Nigeria needs peace and stability to move forward.

Nigeria belongs to all of us, and we have to take care of it."

He emphasised the need for collaboration between the federal and sub-national governments to facilitate

rapid infrastructure development in every part of the country.

The president stated, "I want us to discard federal, state, or rural road classifications. We must regard development as a joint responsibility.

Let us prioritise our children.

“The school feeding programme must return quickly, beginning from the local government to the state and federal governments. We must be ready to protect our children and prepare them for the future."

Tinubu acknowledged the presence of Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State and commended him for his efforts to peacefully resolve the political challenges in the state.

He told the Rivers State governor, "I thank you for your statesmanship.

I listened to your broadcast and your emphasis on peace. It is only with peace that effective governance can thrive, and governance has commenced in earnest under my watch."

On the 2024 budget proposal before the National Assembly, the president informed the governors that he had a review meeting earlier in the day on certain elements in the

Appropriation Bill, with Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, and Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu.

Earlier, Chairman of NGF and Kwara State governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, expressed solidarity with the government and the people of Plateau State.

"May God be with the souls of the departed and bring peace to Plateau State,” Abdulrazaq said. “The governor of Plateau State, we are with you; stay strong," he added.

In a separate condolence statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Rafiu Ajakaye, the governor described the Plateau incident as shocking and sad. He extended his condolences to the government and people of Plateau State, especially the bereaved families, and insisted that nothing justified the violence visited on innocent people.

While urging the security agencies to get to the roots of the incident and bring perpetrators to book, he prayed God to give comfort to all the affected families.

O p e y e m i B a m id e l e : N AS S W i l l Pass 2 0 2 4 A p p r o p r iation B i l l Sat u r day

journalists in Iyin Ekiti on Monday.

He also said all federal lawmakers would have to cut short their holidays to ensure speedy passage of the 2024 appropriation bill.

The statement quoted Bamidele as saying, “To ensure the passage of the budget, we abridged time to make all ministries, departments and agencies appear before the joint sitting of all the relevant committees of both the Senate and House of Representatives.

“This has already reduced the time for the budget defence process by half, rather than appearing before the Senate, first, and House of Representatives later. The resolution has also removed the need for harmonisation. In essence, we have been able to save time.

“We have also been sitting beyond our regular sitting days.

We have sat on Saturdays. We may even sit on Sunday as we are approaching another year. We only give ourselves three days to go home and celebrate Christmas.

“We are reconvening on December 29. Our hope and determination is to pass by December 30. On January 1, 2024, Mr. President will have the 2024 appropriation bill at his desk for assent so that its implementation can take off in earnest.”

Bamidele expressed concerns about the activities of economic saboteurs, who were doing everything to weaken the naira forex rate or trying to make the country’s currency unavailable to the people who kept their monies in banks.

He said the federal government “will, from next year, go after economic saboteurs who are making life difficult and unbearable for Nigerians".

Bamidele said, "The federal

government will charge, prosecute and punish them for their acts of economic sabotage.

“All these will take place next year. In the long run, those who mopped up the naira and dollars from the markets will face the consequences of their actions. Those who mopped up the dollars to keep commodity prices will definitely not escape justice.

“Those who are speculating are also on the watch list of the federal government. At some point, the federal government will have to go after them.”

Bamidele assured Nigerians that the country would witness a true era of “Renewed Hope” that would herald development, progress and prosperity, citing diverse plans the administration of President Bola Tinubu has put in place to transform the economy.

He revealed the federal government’s plan “to invest heavily in agriculture and agro-allied industries. We are equally doing all we can to harness our solid minerals potential as much as what we derive from the sale of crude oil. We are determined to sustain the daily production of 1.7 million barrels”.

The senate leader said the federal government was not unmindful of the effect of fuel subsidy removal on Nigerians. Although, he defended the decision to remove fuel subsidy.

He explained that the federal government took the decision in the best interest of Nigerians because the citizens were not really benefiting from the fuel subsidy regime.

Bamidele stated, “We are not unmindful of the immediate impact of the fuel subsidy removal. But we are convinced subsidy removal

is a right decision taken because no other person than a cabal in the oil and gas industry and their promoters in the government were benefitting from the fuel subsidy regime.

“No one else is actually benefiting from the fuel subsidy. It was not about the people because the masses were not benefitting from it in any way. It was a major source of bleeding in our economy.

“This administration did the right thing by putting an end to the fuel subsidy regime. Part of what we have seen after the fuel subsidy removal was a fight back from those who were the beneficiaries of the fuel subsidy regime.

“They are doing everything possible to make sure the pump price of premium motor spirit goes up because we are more of a consumer economy. We do not produce. A lot of things we are consuming in Nigeria are imported.

“What this means is that if naira is devalued either consciously against the dollars or commodities imported to Nigeria, we have to spend more to bring these things.

The supplier will have to sell them at a higher rate. This trend is making commodity prices go out of the reach of Nigerians.

“People’s income has not increased. Yet, they have to pay double for a bag of rice today compared to what they paid one or two years ago. This is extremely painful for all Nigerians. How many Nigerians can afford a bag of rice today without a corresponding increase in their income?

“Nigerians are working so hard.

But the prices are rising out of their purchasing power. These are some of the immediate effects of very drastic economic decisions taken by the federal government.

But its long term effect will, by God’s grace, stabilise the economy.”

Abdulrazaq appealed to everyone in Plateau State to do everything to avoid a cycle of violence, which only inflicts generational pain and underdevelopment.

He reaffirmed state governments' support for the bold decisions and reforms initiated by the Tinubu's administration.

He said, "These are challenging times. It is not a walk in the park.

Removing fuel subsidies had a great structural effect on the economy of the states. But we are confident that we will overcome these challenges and bounce back better."

Mutfwang: It’s Disheartening Losing Lives to Senseless, Unprovoked Attacks

Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, condemned the coordinated attacks on innocent communities in Bokkos, Mangu, and Barkin-Ladi local government areas of the state, declaring it is disheartening to lose lives to senseless, unprovoked attacks.

The governor empathised with the people over the assaults and called for united efforts to identify and apprehend the perpetrators of the heinous acts.

In a press statement by his Director of Press, Mr. Gyang Bere, the governor reported that more than 20 villages had been displaced, with many houses destroyed and millions of naira worth of property lost. He added that scores of individuals also sustained gunshot injuries during the attacks.

Mutfwang acknowledged and appreciated Tinubu for supporting the Nigerian Army in maintaining security. He also commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, and Commander, Operation SAFE HAVEN, for their commitment to addressing various security challenges facing the state.

He stated, "It is disheartening that we have lost numerous lives due to incessant attacks in Mangu, Bokkos, and Barkin-Ladi. These senseless and unprovoked acts are unnecessary and unjustifiable.

“I appeal to the sponsors of these attacks to reconsider, as there is noth-

Gen. Christopher Musa colleagues will miss wishing their families and loved ones Merry Christmas and Happy New Year in person this season, not because they do not want to, but because they will be on duty across difficult-to-access towns, villages and hamlets across the country and beyond".

Lagbaja, who was represented by the Commander Armoured Corps, Major General MS Ahmed, appreciated the sacrifices, efforts and commitment of troops in the fight against insurgency, adding that Army Headquarters had initiated several welfare projects that will directly impact the lives of soldiers and their families.

ing to gain from such violence. The spirit of the Plateau people will not be broken."

The governor praised the bravery and sacrifices of security personnel, acknowledging the injuries sustained by some during efforts to secure the affected villages. He assured them of continued collaboration with the military and other security agencies to address security challenges, given the limited resources available.

Mutfwang called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and Plateau State Emergency Management Agency to swiftly respond to the humanitarian crisis resulting from the attacks.

He pledged the state government's commitment to settling the medical expenses of the injured, now receiving treatment at the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) and other hospitals in the state.

Federal Government, Security Forces Complicit, Says MBF

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) alleged that the Nigerian government and the security forces were complicity in the Plateau killings and, indeed, killings in other states in the Middle Belt.

In a statement by National President of MBF, Dr. Bitrus Pogu, the forum said Section 14(b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria stipulated that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.

It stated, "Conversely, the unrelenting massacre of our people in the Middle-Belt States, particularly, yesterday on the Plateau, has shown without any vestige of pessimism that the government and security forces are complicit in the ethnic cleansing of the indigenous ethnic nationalities, who are not part of the Sokoto Caliphate.

"The hideout from which these insurgents/terrorists launch their attacks on the states of Plateau, Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba and Southern Kaduna is known to government and security forces for decades, yet they have deliberately fortified this Continued on page 44

MOFI Set to Track Nigeria's Real Estate, Solid Minerals, Oil/Gas Assets Globally tion had the target of growing the federal government’s assets under management (UAM) to N100 trillion in 10 years MOFI is vested with the responsibility of managing all federal government investments, interests, estates, easements, and rights. The MOFI Act of 1959 (now Cap. 229, Laws of the Federation, 2004), empowers it to enter into commercial transactions on behalf of the federal government.

The restructured board of the agency, chaired by former Minister of Finance, Dr. Shamsudeen Usman, was inaugurated at the weekend by Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr.

Wale Edun.

In an interview with journalists on the side-lines of the inauguration, Takang said MOFI was upbeat that the N100 trillion target was conservative, considering the vast tangible and intangible assets within and outside the country that were not yet factored in.

He explained that MOFI was set to optimise all domestic and offshore assets belonging to the federal government, including real estate, oil and gas assets, and solid minerals.

Nigeria owns real estates, oil and gas assets, and other valuables in choice areas of leading countries of the world, some of which are

dormant.

According to Takang, government's liquid and solid assets currently run into tens of trillions of naira. Takang said with the restructured board of MOFI now inaugurated and the National Assets Registry in place, the first agenda was to work on federal government's corporate assets to ensure they delivered sustainable risk-adjusted returns.

"And how do we measure that?” he stated. “So, for every share we own in any entity, we have to make sure that there is capital appreciation, that those shares are improving the environment."

He added that the quest “was

to make sure that each of those entities is delivering dividends".

Takang said the second agenda was to establish what the federal government owned, especially in investment assets, which involved, first, identifying, enumerating, valuing, cataloguing, managing, optimising, and monetising the assets, in different asset classes.

He stated, "For us at MOFI, our mandate is around what government owns, especially investment assets, and that's our focus – to establish precisely what we own and how much it is worth, how we can optimise it, how we can Continued on page 43

41

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2023

NEWS

Launch of Y2024 Mobile Advert Permit...

L-R: The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA), Prince Fatiu Akiolu; and the Director, Sanitation Services, Office of Environmental Services, Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Dr. Hassan Sanuth at the launch of Y2024 Mobile Advert Permit and brand awareness programme in LASAA in Lagos... recently

Bye-elections: PDP Releases Timetable, Pegs Price of Senate Form at N3.5m

Slashes nomination fees for persons below 40 by 50% Sale of nomination forms begin December 28

Chuks Okocha in Abuja The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday released the timetable and schedule of activities for the February 3, 2024 bye-elections.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) two weeks ago approved a timetable for

conducting bye-elections resulting from the resignation or demise of members of the National and State Houses of Assembly.

According to the timetable signed by the party’s National Organising Secretary, Umar Bature, the notice of primary election and congresses to state chapters will begin on

Wednesday, December 27, 2023.

The sale of nominations, expression of interest and delegates forms will begin on Thursday, December 28, 2023, and end on Wednesday, January 3, 2024.

In addition, the primary election is slated for Monday, January 8, 2024, and appeals on the party primary

are scheduled to be held on Tuesday, January 9, 2024.

The party pegged the price for the expression of interest and nomination forms for the Senate, House of Representatives, and House of Assembly at N3.5 million, N2.5 million and N600,000 respectively.

“Please note that female aspirants

and persons living with disabilities are to pay for nomination forms only.

“Youths (male/female) below 40

years are to purchase expression of interest forms, but with a 50 per cent discount on nomination forms,” it added.

AbdulRazaq: Work on Ilorin Smart City Satellite Edo Group Congratulates Obaseki on to Begin Next Year

Nomination as 2023 Governor of the Year A socio-political group, Concerned Edo Citizens Forum, has congratulated the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, on his nomination as the 2023 Governor of the Year.

The governor was nominated as Governor of the Year by THISDAY Newspaper on account of his arduous journey, over the past seven years, to reinvent Edo and place it on the path of accelerated and sustainable economic growth and development.

“Governor Godwin Obaseki is a warrior, no doubt. He success-

fully fought his re-election battle a few years ago, and he is about to face yet another big political and survival battle in a few months when the succession tussle starts.

“However, much of Obaseki’s achievements are as a result of his resolve to do the difficult things – dismantling age-long bottlenecks that have hindered growth among Nigeria’s sub-nationals.

“Today, he is nominated one of THISDAY’s Men of the Year because he is a governor, who made the hard choices at the most inauspicious time,” the group

quoted the paper as saying.

Convener of the group, Roy Oribhabor, said the governor in the last seven years embarked on a daunting mission to rebuild the state, implementing policies and delivering projects to better the lives of millions of Edo people and ensure a progressive and prosperous State.

He said: “We heartily felicitate with our performing governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, on his nomination by THISDAY as the Governor of the Year, in recognition of his visionary and exceptional leader-

ship and outstanding performance across all sectors of the State over the past seven years.

“The governor through his innovative policies and transformative projects that dot the nooks and crannies of the State, has continued to positively impact the lives of countless citizens and placed our state on the path of accelerated and sustainable growth.”

The statement added that the nomination was an acknowledgment of the governor’s undying commitment to the growth and progress of Edo state.

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has said that preliminary works will begin next year on the 18,000-hectare Ilorin Smart City Satellite Town designed for the expansion of the capital city.

The planned town is an offshoot of the Ilorin city master plan, the second of such blueprints for urban planning since the state was created in 1967.

Speaking at the 58th Annual National Conference of Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU) held in Ilorin, the governor said the capital city deserves constant infrastructural upgrade and expansion, following its position in the state and central Nigeria.

He said: “Next year, we plan to

Gazans Hunt for Bodies as Israelis also Count Cost, Consider Ceasefire Israel’s war cabinet is to discuss a proposal from Egypt to end the Gaza war, according to the Jerusalem Post newspaper.

This is coming as Palestinians and Israelis continue to count the cost of the conflict.

While Gazans searched for bodies after the Hamas-controlled Ministry of Health said Israeli raids on Al-Maghazi had killed more than 70, Hamas said its fighters have inflicted heavy losses of life on Israeli forces – with Western media reports partly agreeing.

The push for peace is intensifying amid the deaths, with the Jerusalem Post quoting an official from Islamic Jihad – allied to the militant Palestinian organisation Hamas in Gaza – as saying that talks in Cairo would centre on “ways to end the Israeli aggression on our people.”

The Times of Israel newspaper reported that Israeli officials confirmed that Egypt had submitted

a new proposal for a ceasefire and the release of further Israeli hostages in the Gaza Strip.

In a statement released Monday evening, Hamas said it would not settle for a temporary ceasefire, and instead is calling for a permanent truce.

“We emphasise that there will be no negotiations without a comprehensive end to the aggression,” Hamas said.

The Hamas leadership is pushing for “a complete and not just temporary end to the massacre of our people,” the statement further noted.

But Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on a troop visit on Monday that his nation will “deepen the fight in the coming days,” seemingly dashing any hope of an immediate cessation.

Netanyahu said on Sunday that they would continue to fight until Hamas had been completely

defeated.

The Israeli army’s offensive to eliminate Hamas from Gaza was triggered by the worst massacre in Israel’s history, carried out by terrorists from Hamas and other groups on October 7.

Around 1,200 people were killed, while about 240 were taken hostage, some of whom were released during a brief truce.

Large parts of Gaza have been destroyed during the Israeli offensive.

According to the Hamas-controlled Ministry of Health, more than 20,400 people have been killed.

A large proportion of the 2.2 million inhabitants of the coastal enclave have fled their homes.

Saudi TV channel Asharq News reported, citing sources, that Egypt’s proposal envisaged an end to the war in several stages.

In the first phase, the aim would be to enforce a ceasefire lasting at least two weeks.

During this time, 40 hostages would be released. In return, Israel would release 120 Palestinian prisoners. This will be followed by dialogue under the auspices of Egypt.

A third phase would then provide for a complete ceasefire and a comprehensive agreement on the exchange of hostages and prisoners.

In a final step, Israel would withdraw its army and all displaced persons could return to their homes.

The carnage continues for now though, with the Al-Maghazi neighbourhood of Gaza the latest to be hit.

The tally of over 70 dead from Sunday’s airstrikes could not be independently verified. Women and children were also among the victims, the ministry said.

According to UN figures, more than 33,000 people live in Al-Maghazi. The Israeli army said it was investigating the reports.

There were also reports of airstrikes on the Gazan neighbourhood of Al-Bureij. On Friday, the Israeli army called on the people there to flee, even though many have no electricity so miss the warnings.

They were told to seek shelter in Deir al-Balah, about six kilometres to the south, despite Israel previously hitting areas it said were safe.

Meanwhile, the Times of Israel reported that 156 Israeli soldiers have been killed in the two-month ground offensive following the attacks on Israel on October 7.

Hamas is increasing Israeli losses by switching to guerrilla tactics, the Wall Street Journal reported, with 14 Israeli soldiers killed on the weekend alone.

The Hamas head in Gaza, Yehya al-Sinwar, spoke of a bitter, brutal and unprecedented battle against Israel being fought by the Qassam Brigades, the organisation’s armed wing, in a letter to colleagues.

commence preliminary works on the Ilorin Smart City Satellite Town, which should cover an area of 18,000 hectares. This is a beautiful adaptation from the Ilorin City Master plan that I had previously discussed in this gathering two years ago.

“I therefore invite you to support this historic milestone in the socioeconomic and physical evolution of Ilorin and Kwara state as a whole. It will usher in immeasurable growth, huge investments in real estate, and the opportunities that come with building a new city.”

The governor congratulated the Emir, IEDPU, and sons and daughters of Ilorin on another impressive outing this year, praying God to grant the Emirate many more successes in the coming years and to make the state a positive reference point in harmony, peace, and prosperity.

“Our gathering here serves to chart for this great emirate a new agenda of development, unity, brotherhood, and general wellbeing of our people.

I am excited that His Royal Highness and indeed the IEDPU have remained reliable partners for inclusive growth, continuous improvement in the living standards of the people, and steady evolution of Ilorin into a mega city," he stated.

The Ilorin city master plan, he said, is the second comprehensive document since the 1970s that outlines how the capital city should be planned.

"Other phases will be for Kwara South and Kwara North. I thank the IEDPU and other stakeholders for their contributions to it.

“Not only does Ilorin constantly need infrastructural upgrade, maintenance, and expansion because of its positions in our state and central Nigeria, the reality is that the capital city is at the risk of becoming a slum if nothing is done to give it a befitting expansion that improves its standing and makes it a 21st century city on a sustainable basis," the governor said.

42

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2023 • T H I S D AY

NEWS

Signing of Joint Venture/Partnership Agreement Between LSDPC and FVIP...

L-R: Executive Director, Operations, Fish Valley Investment and Properties Limited, Mr. Tomi Osho; Vice Chairman, Mrs Yemi Osho; Chairman of the Company, Omo Oba Muyiwa Osho; MD/CEO, Lagos State Development and Property Corporation (LSDPC), Hon. Ayodeji Joseph and Legal Officer, Fish Valley Investments and Properties Ltd, Mr. Ade Adegbite during the Signing of Joint Venture/Partnership Photo: Abiodun Ajala Agreement between Lagos State Development & Property Corporation (LSDPC) and Fish Valley Investments & Properties Limited (FVIP) in Lagos....recently

TGI: No Govt Funds in Purchase of Union Bank Insists process was transparent, took years negotiations

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Tropical General Investment Group (TGI), the majority owner of Titan Trust and Union Banks, has refuted any insinuations that government monies were involved in the transaction that saw the takeover of Union Bank, insisting that the process was thoroughly transparent.

In a statement by the group’s Head of Corporate Communications, Ms. Rafiat Gawat, TGI stated that the purported documents allegedly linking its ownership of Titan Trust and Union Bank to ex-Central Bank of Nigeria’s Governor, Godwin Emefiele, were factually flawed.

“Our attention has been drawn to media reports emanating from purported documents allegedly submitted to the President by the Special Investigator probing the activities of the Central Bank of Nigeria, where he linked our ownership of Titan Trust and Union Banks to former CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele.

“We want to categorically state that some of the assumptions made in the purported document were incorrect, thereby resulting in a conclusion that may not necessarily reflect the actual reality,” it stated .

The facts of the case, according to TGI, is that as the majority owner of Titan Trust and Union Banks, it had been doing business in Nigeria for close to 45 years and had evolved into one of the largest companies in West Africa.

The acquisition of Union Bank by Titan Trust Bank, it said, followed all the laid down rules and regulations while the approximately $500 million

capital used to pay for the transaction was transparent and unimpeachable.

According to TGI, the entire transaction was managed by highly reputed global financial institutions including Rothschild and Citibank, stressing that like most major acquisitions, the process took years to complete.

Today, TGI said it employs over 20,000 people spread through the length and breadth of Nigeria and has over ₦3.75 trillion in assets and as of 2022, had annual revenues of over ₦1.74 trillion.

According to the organisation, its companies and entities are exemplary corporate citizens of Nigeria and pay over N50 billion annually in taxes to the government.

“A $300 million loan was sourced from African Export-Import Bank (Afrexim) and the rest of the capital was sourced from the proceeds of TGI’s sales of its Chi Ltd business to Coca-Cola, all to finance the acquisition of Union Bank.

“The purported investigation report recommended that the federal government should take over the banks. Such declarations based on incorrect assumptions portray Nigeria negatively, especially when the president is tirelessly seeking and courting foreign investments into the country,” it added.

With operations in 13 countries, including Nigeria, India, Morocco, Germany and the United Arab Emirates in agribusiness, industrial chemicals, real estate development and financial services, TGI said its commitment to Nigeria’s economic development and President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope agenda

is evident in its activities across the country.

“We are a partner with Lagos state government on the 32 metric-tonne Imota Rice Mill in Ikorodu, and was also the sole supplier of paddy rice to the Lagos-Kebbi Lake Rice project.

“TGI also partners with Edo State Government to run their fertiliser blending plant, where we are the only producers of the chemical blend of NPK fertiliser that millions of Nigerian farmers use every season.

“Additionally, we have state of the art rice Mills and Sesame factories

in Kebbi and Jigawa states; foods and agrochemical production lines in Ogun and Lagos, and recently, signed a N50 billion financing agreement to support agricultural initiatives in Niger state which is projected to provide tens of thousands of jobs to the locals and improve food security in the country.

“Only last month, TGI was part of Mr. President’s private sector delegation during his visit to Germany (November 2023) and where Union Bank signed a $500 million contract for the development

The Organised Labour in Ekiti State has dissociated itself from a statement circulating on the social media regarding a meeting with the Head of Service (HoS).

In a statement jointly signed by the Chairmen of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC) and Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), Mr. Kolapo Olatunde, Sola Adigun and Femi Ajoloko respectively, the labour leaders condemned the action of the purveyor of the fake news for trying to instigate workers against

government.

It reads:”The attention of the Organized Labour in Ekiti State has been drawn to a malicious statement being circulated on social media by faceless individuals with the caption “The Outcome of the Meeting Between the Organised Labour and the HOS” wherein the labour leaders and Head of Service were blackmailed.

“We wish to state emphatically without mincing words that the statement was fake and did not originate from any of the labour unions, be it NLC, TUC and JNC. “The said statement was cooked

reputable international financial advisors and bankers, it said, attest to the group’s global credibility.

“Union Bank was not owned by government and no government money (CBN or AMCON) was used to buy it. The process was diligently followed as captured in the report of the investigator.

“As responsible corporate citizens, we are always willing, ready, and able to support stakeholders including regulators to learn and understand our group and its operations,” TGI said.

Army Partners Sister Agencies on Enabling Environment for Economic Growth Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Nigerian Army has disclosed that it is partnering with the police and other sister agencies in ensuring an enabling environment for the economic growth of the country.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, made the disclosure yesterday, in his remarks at the luncheon with frontline troops of 6 Division, held at 29 Battalion Parade Ground, Port Harcourt.

Represented by the Commander Training and Doctrine Command, Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Kevin Aligbe, Lagbaja said that the joint security agencies efforts will ensure a stable environment where businesses and other responsible activities will thrive without interference from men

of the underworld.

"We aim to work with other sister services; the Nigerian Police Force and other security agencies to create and maintain a peaceful, safe and secured environment for economic activities to thrives.

"As chief of army staff, I desire to return our troops home, to their families and loved ones safely. To this end, we look forward to creating a more stable condition that will allow for a draw-down in strength of troops deployed on internal security duties across the country.

"We shall endeavour to build capacity in statutory security agencies to take charge of our internal security effectively. At the same time, we hope to rejuvenate our efforts towards our primary constitutional duty of

Organised Labour Denies Rift with Ekiti Government, Explains Meeting with HoS

Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti

of renewable energy projects with German DWS entities. This clearly illustrates our credentials as a leading private sector partner to the Nigerian government,” it said.

The investigator’s claim that Union Bank did not respond to his request for information, TGI said, was misleading as all the information requested was submitted on September 1, 2023.

TGI’s capital, ownership and selling of Chi to a multinational such as Coca cola and the group’s ability to engage and work with

up by third columnists and evil minded souls who are bent on destroying the good relationship between government and Ekiti state workers, hence it should be totally disregarded,” it stated.

Though the labour leaders agreed to have held a meeting with the HoS, they noted that the purveyor and peddlers of the fake news goofed about the subject of discussion.

“The meeting which was at the instance of both the organised labour and the HoS was to acknowledge the leadership qualities of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, particularly towards the workers and to strengthen

the already existing relationship between the government and the labour leaders.

“At no time did the HoS and labour leaders condemn the governor.

The comments ascribed to the HoS as regards the relationship with the commissioner for finance was the figment of imagination of the writer just to attract cheap sympathy and achieve their ulterior motives,” the statement said.

The labour leaders warned those it described as evil masterminds to desist, while appealing to members of the public to disregard the statement.

protecting our territorial integrity," he said.

The army chief also stated that the military would focus on training and provision of more equipment to its men and officers as they continue to confront insecurity at the various theatres in the country.

Lagbaja said the training will equip the personnel who through the capacity effort will ensure that Nigeria returns to the good old days when people could travel freely across the country and sleep with their two eyes closed.

He assured the troops that the Army would soon take delivery of some helicopters and other fighting equipment to enable troops conduct better operations in 2024.

He explained that the programme was significant in so many ways as it puts on record the premium the Chief of Army Staff places on the welfare and wellbeing of the troops.

"This incoming year, the Nigerian Army expects to check the delivery of its helicopters and other combat enablers that will see a better security environment develop across the entire country.

"Also, the Army headquarters has initiated several welfare projects that will directly impact the lives of soldiers and their families. Your wellbeing is of utmost importance and we shall continue to work tirelessly provide you with the necessary assistance and support to carry on the duties effectively," he added.

Lagbaja further expressed the belief that with the support of the executive and legislative arms of government, the army would be able to become a more efficient force.

Also in his address, the General

Officer Commanding 6 Division of the Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt, Maj.-Gen. Jamal Abdussalam said the event provided opportunity to appreciate troops for their sacrifices to the Nigerian Army and fatherland, particularly, the Niger Delta region.

"Our troops have been involved in various kinetic and non-kinetic activities that have considerably shaped the operating environment with their attendant hazards. Key among these hazards are the loss of various lives of our colleagues and occasional loss and damage of equipment," he said.

Recalling the recent incident that claimed the lives of four soldiers in the state, Abdussalam said: "We are all aware that most recently, we lost four of our gallant soldiers in the criminal activities of militants unwarranted and unprovoked attacks.

“I will like to use this medium to warn those responsible for that dastardly acts that they will surely pay a higher price for their actions.

"These incidents and many sundry operations hazards call for avenues such as this to appreciate their service personnel for their uncommon sacrifices".

He however, urged men and officers of the command to sustain the tempo in the new year, saying that the 6 Division, Nigerian Army would support the federal government to achieve its oil output target for 2024 and even surpass it for the benefit of the nation.

In his speech, Governor Siminalayi Fubara reassured the Army and other security agencies that he would continue to work in synergy with them for positive results.

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NEWS

Christmas Day Thanksgiving...

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State (L) and wife, Chioma, surrounded by family and friends during a Christmas Day Thanksgiving at the St. Rose of Lema Catholic Church, Ozuh Omuma, Oru East Council... Monday

Tinubu Rejoices With SGF, Akume, at 70 Says he's a reliable top flight public servant

Deji Elumoye, Sunday Aborisade in Abuja, and Laleye Dipo in Minna President Bola Tinubu has rejoiced with the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, on his 70th birthday.

The President, who in a release issued by his Media Adviser, Ajuri Ngelale, described him as a reliable top flight public servant, also commended the SGF for his consistency

and perpetual dedication to duty in coordinating the affairs of the government.

He acknowledged Akume's rich portfolio of leadership experience and laurels as governor, minister, senator, and top-flight public servant, which he brings to bear in his current role.

Tinubu extolled the temperance, affability, harmony, and stability he consistently personified as he coordinated activities both within

and with other arms of government, making himself accessible, focused, and dependable in bridging the divide between policy and implementation.

"George Akume is one of the most reliable citizens this country can boast of. The people of Benue have subscribed to his sterling leadership principles and leveraged his remarkable talent for so many years because of what he has always

Bago, senators, others too

stood for.

“He will be with you in the best of days, and even most reliably, in the worst of days. The country has been blessed with the dedication and sure-handedness of Senator Akume."

Also, the Niger State Governor, Alhaji Mohammed Umaru Bago, has showered encomium on Akume.

Bago in a congratulatory message by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi

Ibrahim, described the celebrant as a patriot, astute politician, and a true leader.

"70 years is a milestone that is worth celebrating. I, therefore, pray to God to protect the celebrant and grant him good health and more wisdom to continue his effective service to humanity."

On their part, some members of the 10th Senate in separate statements, also congratulated Akume.

Mohammed Urges Nigerians to Pray for Tinubu’s Success Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has appealed to Christians across the country to use the Christmas period to pray for the success of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led federal government.

Mohammed made the appeal when the Christian community

led by the State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) paid him Christmas homage at the Government House.

He stressed that, "The issue of politicking is over, it is time for action, therefore, he needs our collective prayers to succeed.

Pray for him and pray for me also.

"There is no issue of political

party now, pray for APC and PDP to succeed in working for the people of the country.

"If Mr President did not perform creditable, it will affect even us in the state. We need to work together, synergise and ensure that the people got the dividends of democracy," he said.

The governor further stressed that prayer was very important

MOFI Set to Track Nigeria's Real Estate, Solid Minerals, Oil/Gas Assets Globally

monetise it, and ensure that we are using it to support the government's programme to revitalise and reposition our economy."

He cited corporate assets, which are shares the government owns in entities, fully or partially.

Takang stated, "These include real estate assets. These are assets that are either in Nigeria or offshore. As you know, we have a large portfolio of real estate assets offshore. We will be enumerating these, valuing and making a decision as to how to rationalise and optimise those to ensure that we're getting the most value.

"The third category is around our oil and gas assets. As you know, this is a country that is heavily endowed with oil and gas assets. And for the last seven decades, we've made a lot of foreign earnings from oil and gas assets with huge room for improvement in terms of how we use the oil and gas assets.

"So, that clearly is a third category of assets that we will be tracking and ensuring that we find ways to do better.

“There are solid mineral assets

as well. As you know, we have a lot of oil, solid mineral assets. So that's the fourth category. The fifth category is around our infrastructure assets, especially the ones that have concessions on them.

"We're interested in knowing where they are, to what extent are they being used, how can we improve them? How can we optimise them, and how do we make sure that we're maximising the revenues that are gotten from these."

Takang disclosed that MOFI was making proposals to the capital market because of the enormous investment potential drivable from the market, and added that the recent visit was instructive.

He said, " For a long time, many people didn't understand what it (MOFI) stood for, what its mandates are and what it plans to do. And so, for us, the purpose of that visit was to inform our key stakeholders, which the capital market operators represent, with the view to educating them about the new MOFI, and our mandate, and also to begin to discuss with

them and see how we can work together, because we strongly believe that our success is partly based on the extent to which you can engage the private sector to mobilise private capital to leverage on the expertise, to see how we can manage our investments better.

"So that visit was useful in informing them. And today we have a lot of interest from that same community in terms of how we can partner together. Many of them are expressing interest in some of the assets that we own.

"Many of them have reached out to see how they can work with us to raise capital to invest in different sectors of the economy.

So, there's a whole lot of interest that has come out of them. And our view is that the level of engagement we're having with them now is at a higher and better quality than it was before as a result of these engagements."

Takang expressed optimism that in the coming months, some transactions would be coming through partnership with capital market operators.

in changing situations for good, saying, "God is always ready to answer our prayers. Let us pray for more money from the federal government for development of our state."

While assuring the people that he would continue to serve them, he stressed that he would do better than what was done in his first term, and that he came with the intention of working

for the people of the state.

He however, commended the Christian community in the state for their unflinching support to him and his administration since 2019, when he was first elected governor and in 2023, when he was reelected for a second term.

He stressed the need for people to always hold government accountable in order to ensure that the right thing was done.

Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele; the Chief Whip, Senator Ali Ndume; Senator Ahmad Lawan, Senator Sani Musa and Senator Godiya Akwashiki, in their separate statements, described the former governor of Benue State as a progressive politician of repute.

Opeyemi said Akume, through firmness, resilience and tenacity reclaimed Nigeria from the claws of regressive elements in 2015.

Ali Ndume commended Akume for his efficient service delivery, and a collaborative approach to governance.

Senator Ahmad Lawan, said the illustrious and selfless political career of the Akume, marked him out as an exceptional pillar of governance in Nigeria.

Sani Musa praised Akume for being consistent in the nation's politics stressing that he is loved in Benue and by extension, in the North Central geopolitical zone.

Godiya Akwashiki also commended Akume for his commitment to the President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Eno: My Predecessor Doesn’t Put Me Under Pressure

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Contrary to developments in some states, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno, has opened up on the relationship with his predecessor in office, saying Mr. Udom Emmanuel, has never put him under pressure, since leaving office in May. He said in a statement that, “On the contrary, we are the ones chasing him to ask him to always come around to advise us."

The governor, who spoke at the Christmas worship service at United Evangelical Church (QIC), Awa Iman, Onna LGA, home church of the immediate past Governor, said, “I tell people that even when you are not in government, you are still working for this State.

“In eight years, you (Udom Emmanuel) taught us leadership, and you developed all of us. We have learnt from you, especially

the lesson of tolerance.

“You may no longer be Governor today, but you will always be my Governor and leader. You have a clear understanding of how these things work and I will always be your student," he said.

Eno announced that Akwa Ibom State International Christian Worship Center, established during Mr Emmanuel’s tenure, was ready and would be used for the New Year's State Interdenominational Service on January 2nd, 2024.

Earlier, Mr Emmanuel, who was accompanied to the church by his wife, Dr Martha and other family members, commended Eno for leading the state executive council members and other political bigwigs to the church service.

The former governor said it had been his tradition to always share his Christmas with his people since his days as a bank General Manager.

He said he was happy to restore

peace in Akwa Ibom State during his tenure, adding that it was more important than all the projects he executed across the state.

He expressed satisfaction over the cordiality between him and the governor, saying he had avoided any action that could lead to friction with his successor.

“Don’t mind what people may say. We are relating very well.

Sometimes, if there is a state function and I attend, they will say he is coming too much, if I don’t attend, they will say ‘they are quarreling that is why he has refused to come’ but they forget that Udom Emmanuel and the Governor are inseparable.

“Any support I can give him (Governor Eno) to enable him to succeed, I will always give him. I pray every day for him to succeed.

“Let’s continually pray for him, and let’s also be patient. The king needs a little bit of patience from the people.”

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CELEBRATING ALHAJA NIMOTA ADELEYE’S 80th BIRTHDAY...

L-R: Foremost industrialist, Chief Samuel Adedoyin; celebrant's daughter/Managing Director, Eleganza lndustrial City Limited, Mrs. Folashade Okoya, and Chairman, Eleganza Group of Companies, Chief Rasaki Akanni Okoya, at the 80th birthday celebration of Alhaja Adeleye in Ajah, Lagos…recently

Incensed by Plateau Xmas Eve Carnage, Tinubu Orders Security to Go After Killers evil theatre from any destruction, thus, providing a safe haven for these terrorists to smuggle arms, train their mercenaries, and unleash unimaginable terror on innocent citizens without any provocation whatsoever.”

Pogu said because of the helplessness of governors amid the attacks, state police was the only option left to secure the country from a full-blown war. He said as the arms stockpile was on an alarming increase, given the ineffectiveness of government in guaranteeing the security of lives and property of Nigerians.

Attack is Heinous, Reprehensible, Says Northern Governors

Chairman of the Northern Governors' Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Alhaji Muhammadu Yahaya, described as reprehensible and heinous the Christmas eve attacks on communities within Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi local government areas of Plateau State.

Yahaya governor, on behalf of the 19 northern governors, Tuesday, expressed deepest condolences to the affected families and communities as well as the government and people of Plateau State.

He stated, "It is reprehensible and disheartening to hear of the loss of over 100 hundred lives and destruction of properties that occurred during these attacks, especially during a time when residents were preparing to celebrate the festive season.

"Such acts of violence are not only cowardly but also run counter to the spirit of unity and coexistence that our region upholds.

"We must all prioritise peace and harmonious living in our communities. Now, more than ever, we must reaffirm our commitment to peaceful coexistence and solidarity regardless of our differences.”

CAN President Urges Unity, Reconciliation

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) called on Nigerians to embrace the spirit of unity and reconciliation during this joyous season.

CAN President, Archbishop Daniel C. Okoh, in a statement he signed on Christmas Day, while highlighting Nigeria's diversity, said Nigerians must seek common grounds among the various ethnicities and religions.

Okoh urged citizens to reflect on the values of peace and goodwill.

Okoh anchored the statement on Luke 2:14, from the New International Version (NIV) of the Bible, which emphasised the significance of Christmas as a time to celebrate God's love and the hope it brings to humanity.

He stated, “In a diverse country like Nigeria, characterised by multiple ethnicities and religions, we must

always strive to seek what unites and binds us together rather than what divides us.

“Though we may be experiencing economic hardship, let us not forget those who are on the margins of society. We must share our resources with them and give them a sense of belonging, as Christ would do.”

Baptist Convention Condemns Killings

The leadership of the Nigerian Baptist Convention (NBC) condemned the wanton killing of Christians and destruction of churches by suspected Fulani militia in Plateau State.

President of NBC, Rev. Dr Israel Adelani Akanji, called on the security agencies to bring the culprits to book.

Akanji requested President Bola Tinubu to, as a matter of urgency, provide necessary security to all Nigerians and bring an end to the wanton killings of Christians in the northern part of the country.

He said NBC was saddened by the continued killing of Christians in Plateau State and other parts of the country.

Northern Senators Call for Thorough Probe

The Northern Senators Forum condemned the mass killings in Plateau State and called for a thorough investigation. Spokesperson for the NSF in the 10th National Assembly, Senator Suleiman Sumaila, who stated this in a statement, condemned the act and described it as a national calamity.

Sumaila said, "It is with profound sorrow and a weighty heart that, as a forum, we address you on the recent tragic incident of mass killing in Plateau State. This brutal act is indefensible, devoid of reason, and stains our shared humanity.

"We unequivocally condemn such heinous acts and express our deepest condolences to the affected families, loved ones, the people, and the government of Plateau State.

"Their immense loss is a collective grief, and we stand united in our determination to seek justice. In our legislative role, we strongly condemn this reprehensible act and call upon the authorities to promptly initiate a comprehensive investigation.”

Abbas Bemoans Fresh Killings in Plateau

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, condemned the attacks on communities within Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi local government areas of Plateau State on Christmas eve.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Musa Abdullahi Krishi, Abbas described the attacks as barbaric and heinous, adding that the deaths are “too many,” especially at this time.

He noted with concern the trend of attacks by gunmen, bandits and other criminals, who killed innocent Nigerians.

The speaker urged the security and intelligence agencies to forestall further loss of lives and property on the Plateau and other parts of the country, and charged them to go after the perpetrators of the dastardly act, apprehend and prosecute them.

Obi: We’re Overstretching our Security

Presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, sent words to the country’s security agencies over the Plateau havoc, saying they are being overstretched.

In a special Yuletide message to the uniformed operatives following the killings on the Plateau, Obi noted that they were being overstrained by the increasing incidents of terrorism and criminal violence across the country.

He stated, “As we celebrate this season of peace and love and the approach of a new year, I like to spare a thought for our compatriots in uniform.

“The men and women of our armed and security services come to mind. The soldiers in various battlefronts of insecurity, the policemen and women in patrol in our cities and highways, the Civil Defence Corps, and Department of State Services operatives.

“These illustrious citizens are often lost in our thoughts and prayers, both as leaders and fellow citizens, yet they remain the guardians and protectors of our freedom as a people.

“I am thinking of those who in the call of duty have to spend this festive season away from the comfort of home and the embrace of loved ones.

“I am referring to those who face the risk of the supreme sacrifice to protect and defend the freedom of our dear nation and the liberties that come with our democracy.

“Let us spare them our thoughts and prayers this season. Let them be reassured that their labours are appreciated by a grateful nation.”

According to him, “Great nations are built by rulers, citizens, and the protectors of freedom.

“Therefore, to all our illustrious heroes, please accept the prayers and thoughts of your compatriots and the appreciation of a grateful nation for your services and sacrifices.”

In a statement on his X page, Obi condemned the Plateau killings, but he applauded the efforts of the security authorities to contain terrorism and insurgency.

He stated, “After my sympathy visit to the Regent of Oba Community in Anambra State for the recent horrific killing of people in a nightclub in that community; plus the mindless act of terrorism that occurred on Christmas Day in Plateau

State, where the death toll is now reportedly more than 100, with over 300 injured; with the saddening acts of violence that have occurred in Zamfara and Kastina states.

“Where farmers were killed and several others kidnapped, and the many other violent attacks in many parts of the country, which may go unreported; my thoughts went to our overstretched security operatives.

The men and women of our armed and security services come to mind.

“Let them be reassured that their labours are appreciated by a grateful nation. Great nations are built by rulers, citizens, and the protectors of freedom.

“Therefore, to all our illustrious heroes, please, accept the prayers and thoughts of your compatriots and the appreciation of a grateful nation for your services and sacrifices.

“God bless you all for what you do for us all.”

CUPP Urges Arrest of Killers of Plateau Villagers

Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) asked the security agencies to immediately fish out those responsible for the killing of innocent villagers in Bokkos and Barkin Ladi local government areas of Plateau State.

A statement by National Secretary CUPP, High Chief Peter Ameh, described the killings as an act of genocide.

The statement said, "We in CUPP have watched in great shock, utter trepidation and indescribable awe the viral videos making the rounds on the massacre of more than 150 innocent souls in Bokkos and Barkin Ladi local government areas of Plateau State, and we hereby unambiguously and unequivocally condemn the killings as an act of genocide that has been ongoing for more than eight years.

“CUPP hereby urges the security agencies to move into an overdrive and either smoke, or fish out those responsible for these killings and their sponsors and promptly bring them to justice, or in the alternative take justice to them, wherever they may be hiding.

"CUPP also recommends that the government of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu should immediately convene or empanel a committee to look at our constitution, which we regard more as a unitary constitution, with a view to amending it to conform truly with the federalism we mouth our country to be, and empower the component states to have their own internal security, be it police, coast guards or vigilante organisations, amongst others, to enable them effectively secure their local borders."

Amnesty International: FG Encouraging Insecurity

Rights group, Amnesty International observed that the inability of the federal government to bring attackers to justice was encouraging them and fuelling rising insecurity across the country.

The group made the observation in a statement by its media officer, Isa Sanusi, on the horrific killing of over 140 people by gunmen across over 20 villages of Bokkos and parts of Barkin-Ladi local government areas of Plateau State.

It accused the Nigerian authorities of abandoning these communities at the mercy of rampaging gunmen The statement added that the failure of the Nigerian authorities to tame the tide of violence “is costing people’s lives and livelihoods”, warning that without immediate action many more lives may be lost.

Amnesty International stated that Tinubu had promised during his inauguration to put in place new ways of addressing increasing insecurity in the country, but added that the attacks in Plateau State and recently in some parts of Benue, Zamfara, Sokoto and Katsina states revealed that protecting lives and property was low on the list of his priorities.

The group stated that issuing statements condemning the attacks was not enough and that genuine commitment to protecting the people must be demonstrated by ensuring justice.

Amnesty International stated, "The Nigerian authorities must investigate the inexcusable security lapses that allowed the horrific killing of over 140 people by gunmen across over 20 villages of Bokkos and parts of Barkin-Ladi local government area of Plateau state.

"Our investigation shows that the gunmen were on a rampage of killing and destruction for more than 48 hours, moving from one village to another.

“Apart from Bokkos local government area, where the attacks started and lasted hours, the gunmen also crossed into Barkin Ladi local government area and killed dozens of people in Hurum, Daruwat, Maiyanga and NTV villages.

“President Bola Tinubu must set up an impartial, independent and effective panel to investigate the apparent failure of security agencies to halt the bloodshed hours after villages that were attacked were gathering dead bodies of those killed and conveying those injured to hospitals.”

Police Place Death Toll at over 79

Plateau State Police Command released casualty figures on the Christmas eve attacks in Plateau State, saying over 79 persons were killed in Bokkos Local Government Area, while another 17 were killed in Barkin-ladi Local Government Area.

There have been conflicting figures from different quarters with some putting the total figure at 160.

Several calls to the police to get the correct figure had been rebuffed until yesterday, when it issued a statement on the incident.

In a statement by the Police Public Relation Officer in the state, Mr. Alfred Alabo, the police said, “On the 24/12/2023 at 2200hrs the following twelve (12) villages in Bokkos LGA were attacked: Ndun, Ngyong, Murfet, Makundary, Tamiso, Chiang, Tahore, Gawarba, Dares, Meyenga, Darwat and Butura Kampani.

“Similarly, on 24/12/2023 at about 2245hrs, three (3) villages in BarkinLadi LGA namely; NTV, Hurum and Darawat were also attacked.

“Findings from the assessment of the ugly incidents in Bokkos LGA revealed that the total number of villages attacked is Twelve (12), Two Hundred and twenty-one (221) houses were set ablaze, Twenty-seven (27) motorcycles were burnt, Eight (8) motor-vehicles were burnt down and over seventy-nine (79) persons were killed, while seventeen deaths were recorded in Barkin-ladi LGA.” Alabo said the state Commissioner of Police, CP Okoro J. Alawari, was seriously grieved over the deadly attacks that took place in mainly remote villages of the two local government councils at odd hours of the night, and sympathised with the families of those that lost their loved ones.

The statement added that the Commissioner of Police had directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge Operations (DC DOPs) to relocate to Bokkos Local Government Area. It said the police commissioner had also deployed high-power delegation of well-armed operational forces to the troubled areas to prevent further attacks and also assess the level of damages in the affected areas, even as investigation and monitoring of the incidents were ongoing.

Christmas Celebrated Peacefully in Niger, Says Police

The Niger State police command disclosed that this year’s Christmas was celebrated across the state in an atmosphere of peace. The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Wasiu Abiodun, who made this known in a statement, said reports from police formations across the state showed the festivities went on without hitches or ugly incidents.

Abiodun attributed the situation to adequate deployment of police personnel and other security agencies.

“The peaceful celebration can be attributed to adequate deployment of police personnel and other security agencies, as well as operational assets, as directed by the CP Shawulu Ebenezer Danmamman," he said.

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CSR IN ACTION…

L-R: Head, Risk Management and Administration, at Bridge Credit Limited, Festus Isimoya; Enugu State Commandant, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Mohammed Dada, and Head, Bridge Credit Limited, Enugu Branch, Sixtus Okpala, during the free Prostate and Cervical Cancer screening for personnel of NSCDC in Enugu…recently

Two Die in Fresh Attack by Suspected Members of Boko Haram in Adamawa Daji Sani in Yola

Two people have been killed while others sustained gunshot injuries with one hospitalised following the attack on the Kwapre community in Hong Local Government Area of

Adamawa State on Christmas eve by suspected Boko Haram insurgents.

According to an eyewitness in the area, the attackers stormed the affected area on motorcycles, invaded the community around 8 p.m. and started shooting

sporadically scaring the inhabitants and neighbouring communities to flee for safety.

The eyewitness said the attackers also carted away food items, medicine and other valuables

“The inhabitants of Kwapre and surrounding communities are now fleeing the area for fear of the unknown,” the eyewitness said.

Also, the District Head of Dugwaba, Mr. Simon Buba,

also confirmed to journalists that two persons were killed during the attack.

He called on military authorities to step up their strategy to end the fight against insurgency in the North-east region.

Meanwhile the Adamawa State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje, confirmed the incident yesterday to THISDAY, saying necessary efforts by the police are being put in place to arrest the perpetrators.

Plateau Gov Distributes Makinde: We’ll Continue to Collaborate with Investors to Develop Oyo Relief Materials to IDPs Seriki Adinoyi in Jos

As part of the Christmas celebration in Plateau State, Governor Caleb Mutfwang over the weekend launched distribution of relief materials to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) at Nding camp in BarkinLadi Local Government Area of the state.

The materials included: bags of rice, salt, Maggi, cooking oil, and more, handed over to households comprising orphans, widows, and elderly individuals who have been affected by decades of persistent attacks in the state that claimed numerous lives.

The governor urged the IDPs to remain resilient, relying on divine protection, and assured them of continued government support to address their challenges.

He said: “As a government, we are committed to ensuring the resettlement of all of you to your ancestral homes. Plateau residents are industrious and self-reliant; they prefer earning their livelihoods rather than depending on handouts. This is the direction we will take as a government.”

The governor expressed gratitude to Dr. Richard Ikiebe and his family for sourcing the relief materials.

Governor of Oyo State, ‘Seyi Makinde, has maintained that Oyo State has been moving forward at a great pace under his watch, adding that his government still remained open to collaborating with private individuals and businesses to further develop the state.

The governor stated this yesterday in Oyo town, where he inaugurated

the Dynasty FM, Oyo. According to the governor, his administration has engineered a modern Oyo State and has attracted accelerated development in major corridors of the state.

He noted that through the upgrade of the moribund Fasola Farm to an agribusiness industrial estate and the construction of the

Oyo-Iseyin Road, which made the journey from Fasola to Oyo not more than 10 minutes, his government has ensured that Oyo zone is not behind in the progress being made by the state.

The governor, who lauded the founder of the new radio station and first private radio station in Oyo town, Biodun Ajisafe, said his government

haas also been challenged to bring Atiba FM back to life.

Lamenting how a contractor to whom the project was earlier awarded mismanaged it, the governor promised that his administration would take up the issue of the station again and ensure that the project is delivered without delay.

YinkaKolawoleinOsogbo

students during this year exercise ceremony.

Speaking at the 17th matriculation ceremony of the institution, Professor Adeboye, enjoined them to seize every opportunity and make the most of their time in the Institution, and let the spirit of excellence guide the entire journey.

The VC emphasized: “Osun State University stands as a symbol of academic excellence.

Our commitment to providing quality education has earned us a distinguished reputation, not only within our Nation but globally. We continuously strive for excellence in teaching, research, and community

service.”

“In this esteemed institution, we uphold the values of integrity, discipline, and moral uprightness.

Social vices such as examination malpractice, cultism, indecent dressing, drug abuse, sexual harassment, and truancy are vehemently condemned.”

Osun Varsity VC Tasks Students to Dream High in the Academic Pursuit The Vice-Chancellor of the Osun State University, Professor Odunayo Clement Adeboye, has challenged to the new students of the Institution to dream big, work hard, and aim for the stars.

The University Matriculated 8,000

Razes Late A’Ibom PDP Chairman’s House, Kills Wife, Sister Fubara’s Wife Calls for Peace in Rivers Fire The inferno, which reportedly Secretary, Transition Committee for all indigenes of the local Okon BasseyinUyo Blessing Ibunge inPort Harcourt

Wife of the Rivers State Governor, Mrs. Valerie Siminalayi Fubara has urged Rivers people to maintain peace in the state.

Mrs. Fubara made the call yesterday, at the maiden edition of the end of year party organised for children in the state.

The wife of the governor said the administration of her husband would continue to give priority attention to issues of children and youths in order to make life better for them.

Mrs Fubara expressed delight for hosting Rivers children, which she described as future leaders of the state, and celebrate with

them as part of activities to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ.

“As part of the determination of the present administration of Rivers State, under the guidance of my darling husband, the welfare and well-being of our children and other Rivers people are paramount,” she said.

Mrs Fubura urged parents to continue to devote quality time to nurturing their children so that they can grow into becoming responsible citizens.

“As parents, we must continue to do those things that are right before God and man in bringing up our children for the benefit of the larger society.

Group Celebrates Yuletide with Lagos Widows A group of young Nigerians under the aegis of Young Professionals for Tinubu (YP4T), has put smiles on the faces of hundreds of widows, as they donated food items and other gifts to the needy and particularly, widows in Lagos.

The event, which was one of the several life-impacting activities of the group held across different parts of Nigeria, took place at the Nigeria Police Barracks, Ikeja, Lagos, to the delight of the obviously joyous and grateful recipients, who could not stop singing and dancing in appreciation of the gifts.

Speaking with journalists at

the event, National Coordinator of YP4T, Hon. John Ikeotuonye, said the donations by the group is one of its several impactful programmes taking place across different cities in Nigeria.

He added that it’s in line with the policies of President Bola Tinubu’s government. which is aimed at refreshing the hopes of the people in a better Nigeria.

“We’re strong supporters President Bola Tinubu’s mandate.

Therefore, in the spirit of the yuletide, we’ve come to celebrate with the indigent women, particularly, the widows and to tell them that they are not alone.

It was a Christmas eve tragedy in Akwa Ibom State as fire burnt down the house of late state Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Obong Udo Ekpenyong, in Ukanafun Local Government Area of the state.

occurred on the eve of Christmas celebration, claimed the life of the late PDP chairman’s wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Udo Ekpenyong, and a sister to his wife, Miss Ofonime Frank.

This was contained in a statement issued yesterday by the

of the Local Government Area, Mr. Udeme Idiòng However, the cause of the inferno was not stated, the statement added that the Transition Community Chairman of the council, Hon. Godwin Ekpe, has declared seven days mourning

government area.

The council chairman also sought the approval of the state government to withdraw all Ukanafun contingent in the ongoing Christmas Carol activity scheduled to hold on December 28 in the state.

After 15 Years, Apapa Mini-Water Works Resumes Distribution to Residents Ayodeji Ake

After 15 years of distrupted operations, the Apapa Mini-Water Works has resumed distribution to Apapa Local Government Area (LGA) residents.

Addressing newsmen at the

inauguration ceremony of the corporation, the Chairman Apapa LGA, Hon. Idowu Senbanjo noted that lack of portable water had been a burden and much work had been done with the support of the Nigeria Port Authority (NPA).

She said: “Not having water

was a big issue for us here in Apapa. People sunk boreholes and yet unable to get portable water. The cases of typhoid is on the rise and we investigated the cause down to water. It was becoming too expensive to buy water.

“Since June this year we have been on this project to ensure residents get water. We discovered the pipes are broken and we had to fix them all. It’s been over 15 years since this waterworks dispensed water and we have to ensure that it properly cleaned.

Imo Communities Move to Abolish Caste System in Igboland Tony IchekuinOwerri

Two autonomous communities in Imo State, namely Amurie Omanze and OboroAmurie would on January 4, 2024 set the tone for abolition of the caste system in the South-East geo-political zone as it discards the decades

old practices which classifies some of the communities as second class citizens In a statement, the traditional rulers of Amurie Omanze and Oboro Amurie, respectively, Eze C.O Nnajiemere and Eze V.O Ahamefule Durugwoegebu IV stated that on January 4, 2024, the

caste systems of Osu, Ume, Ohu and Diala would cease to exist in the two autonomous communities carved out from old Amurie Omanze ancient community in Isu LGA of the State.

The caste system in Igboland came to international attention through Nigerian acclaimed

novelist, Chinua Achebe, who depicted the practice in ‘No Longer at Ease’, one of his widely read trilogies. The practice, significantly forbids inter-marriage between the Osu, Ohu, Ume and Diala caste and other members of the community ( where it exists) described as freeborns.

FG Pays N20,000 Poverty Alleviation Grants to 5,000 People in Cross River

Bassey Inyang in Calabar

The Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation has commenced the payment N20,000 grants each to about 5,000 vulnerable, very poor

persons, and people with disabilities (PWDs) under the federal government conditional cash transfer programme.

Addressing the beneficiaries and those present at the flag-off of the event at the Millennium Park in Calabar,

Cross River State, the Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, said the one-off grant was part of President Bola Tinubu’s determination to lift vulnerable Nigerians from the abysses of poverty across the country.

Edu said: “Here in Cross River State, we are flagging off the grant for vulnerable groups.

So far, we’ve been able to reach 5,000 very poor and vulnerable persons at the grassroots in the state with plans to expand in the coming year.

46

WEDNESdaysports

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2023 • T H I S D AY

Group Sports Editor: Duro Ikhazuagbe Email: duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

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UEFA Rule Denies Chukwueze of Possible Villarreal Return Kunle Adewale

In spite of Samuel Chukwueze failing to settle in at the San Siro since joining AC Milan, a loan return to former club Villarreal has however been ruled out because of a UEFA rule though the Spanish Laliga club are said to be interested in signing the Super Eagles forward on loan.

Chukwueze joined Serie A giants AC Milan in the summer for €28million. The Nigerian attacker was expected to take the league by storm due to his impressive performance

last season when he recorded 13 goals and 11 assists in 52 games.

However, the Super Eagles star has not reached the heights expected of him yet. Chukwueze has registered two goals and one assist in 19 games.

He has shown some glimpses of brilliance, but most times, he has been disappointing.

But Villarreal, who are struggling in the Spanish top flight, are shopping for a winger, and one of their options is Chukwueze because of his history with the club.

According to Spanish media

outlet, AS, the Yellow Submarine have however turned their sights elsewhere because of the UEFA rule, which prohibits players from returning on loan to their former team they left before their contract expire.

Chukwueze had a year left on his contract before Villarreal sold him in the summer. If he then returns to Villarreal on loan, UEFA would consider it that Chukwueze has two federative licenses this season- that of Milan and that of Villarreal.

Chukwueze just joined AC Milan in the summer, but he has struggled to settle in.

Moses Simon Still Rues Missing Out of Last two World Cup Finals Nantes winger in the French Ligue 1, Moses Simon, has admitted he was left devastated after missing the 2018 and 2022 editions of FIFA World Cup. Simon was a key figure for the Super Eagles, featuring in all the qualifiers as Nigeria secured their spot at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

Then head coach, Gernot Rohr, named the flying attacker in Nigeria’s provisional squad for the tournament and would have included him in the final roster for the tournament.

However, Simon got injured and missed the party as the Super Eagles crashed out of Russia 2018 at the

group stage.

Nigeria, after losing on aggregate to Ghana in the playoffs, failed to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, denying Simon the chance to make his debut appearance at the Mundial.

The former KAA Gent ace has revealed the two unfortunate experiences left him sad and broken.

“In 2018, at first, I felt really sad,” Simon told FIFA.com, as per Cafonline.

“I played all the qualification games, I started and I finished [the matches]. But in the end, I didn’t go to the World Cup. It’s something I would not wish on my worst enemy. I was really

Liverpool Go Top of Premier League Liverpool signalled their title ambitions by going top of the Premier League thanks to a hard-fought 2-0 victory at relegation-threatened Burnley.

Jurgen Klopp's side have only been beaten once so far this season and went two points clear of Arsenal at the summit despite some wastefulness in front of goal.

The Reds got the perfect start by netting after just six minutes as Darwin Nunez guided in a lovely finish from the edge of the box to end a run of 12 club games without a goal.

The impressive James Trafford was kept busy in the Burnley goal and had already smothered Harvey Elliott's low drive before making a stunning fingertip stop to deny Mohamed Salah.

The wave of attacks from the

Reds was unrelenting and Cody Gakpo had a goal disallowed for Nunez's foul on Charlie Taylor, while Salah rattled the crossbar - all before half-time.

Elliott also had an effort chalked off for Salah interfering with play in a offside position, but the visitors did finally get their second when Diogo Jota smacked home in the final minute.

Burnley, meanwhile, failed to work Alisson into a single save and are in deep trouble in the bottom three, now fives points adrift of safety.

Aston Villa levelled on points with Liverpool while leading Manchester United halfway mark as at press time last night.

Arsenal also can regain top spot with success over West Ham on Thursday.

Basaksehir Set to Part Ways with Emmanuel Dennis Turkish Super Lig club Basaksehir will not renew or attempt to buy Super Eagles attacker Emmanuel Dennis from Nottingham Forest according to reports.

Dennis joined Nottingham Forest from Watford two seasons ago, but it has been a topsy-turvy stay for the 26-year-old. Dennis made a huge impression at Watford, registering ten goals and seven assists in 35 appearances. He was expected to produce similar performances as he did at Watford, but he failed to do so.

Eventually, Dennis moved to Turkey on a season-long deal.

Unfortunately, with the season halfway gone, the former Club Brugge man has made just

eight appearances with no goal contributions.

The Nigerian forward has been a peripheral figure at the club, as coach Cagdas Atan does not see him as an important figure.

In a related development, Ethan Suzgun has reported that Basaksehir have already decided to part ways with Dennis.

This may open the door for Dennis to return to Nottingham Forest, as the club is currently struggling with injuries. And with Nuno Espirito Santo taking charge at the club, Dennis may have an opportunity to fight for a place.

Dennis joined the Turkish club in the summer, but he has not gotten much game time.

devastated. But not anymore.

“Now, I just think: ‘OK, I thank God for everything because I know that it’s for a reason.’ It (not going to the 2018 World Cup and or qualifying for Qatar 2022) motivated me to keep working hard.

“I want to play in the next World Cup, it’s a dream. I just need to do my best, push and work hard.

If the coach calls me, good. If he doesn’t and calls up someone else, I will be happy to support them.”

Simon, who helped Nigeria win bronze at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, has been named in the Super Eagles 40-man provisional squad for the 2023 edition of the tournament, which kicks off next month.

Samuel Chukwueze...wanted ‘back home’ in Spain

Super Eagles Foes, GuineaBissau, Name Final 25-man List Femi Solaja with agency report

While Super Eagles’ final camping ahead of the forthcoming Africa Cup of Nations next month is yet to commence, Guinea Bissau, one of Nigeria’s Group A opponents, yesterday named their final 25-man list of players for the tournament.

The Head Coach of the team, Baciro Candé, officially released the final roster of 25 players selected as they prepare for the tournament’s opening match against host, Cote d’Ivoire on the 7th of January.

The Djurtus of Guinea-Bissau find themselves in Group A, where they will share the stage with host country Cote d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, and Nigeria whom they play in the final group match.

Their journey starts with a clash against the Elephants on January 13, followed by a potential winner-takes-all meeting with the Equatorial Guineans on the 18th. Finally, they face Nigeria’s Super Eagles in their third match.

For the challenge ahead, Guinea-Bissau coach Candé has chosen a squad of 25 players to defend the national colors in Ivory Coast.

The selected lineup comprises three goalkeepers, eight defenders, seven midfielders, and seven attackers.

Two of these players – Mama

2023 AFCON Baldé and Opa Sangante – are not unknown to Nigerians as they contributed to Guinea-Bissau’s surprise 1-0 win over the Super Eagles in March during the AFCON qualifiers.

Dunkerque midfielder Sangante provided the assist for Lyon

forward Baldé to score the only goal of the encounter as Nigeria stumbled to a disappointing loss at the National Stadium in Abuja.

However, the Super Eagles returned the favor three days later as a Moses Simon penalty gave Nigeria a 1-0 win at the Estádio Nacional 24 de Setembro in Bissau.

Nigeria would go on to win

their five remaining games in the group and qualify for Ivory Coast 2023 as one of the best teams and the top attacking side.

The Super Eagles will aim to come out on top again when they face Guinea-Bissau on match-day three at the AFCON. The 2023 edition of the tournament starts on January 13 and runs through to February 11, 2024.

Dortmund’s Adeyemi Inspires Youngsters at Maracana Christmas Party It was an exciting moment at the Maracana Children’s Christmas Party organised by the Nathaniel Idowu Foundation as the Borussia Dortmund’s striker Karim Adeyemi’s presence at the event inspired youngsters that were present at the occasion held at the weekend.

Adeyemi, who was a special guest at the facility charged the children not to relent in their efforts to have fun alongside playing football.

He described the Maracana Stadium as an example of a community-based facility that can mold every young person to become a world beater.

“I feel very proud to see that something like this is happening here and also, I am very happy to have one of the buildings in the facility alongside a beautiful pitch

for the kids to play. The plan is to look for the kids for a better future in football and, to know each other by having fun and playing football together,” he said.

Adeyemi promised through his foundation that he would continue to support Nigerian kids in their quest to play football at the highest level,” he said.

For the head of Youth Academy at Borussia Dortumund, Christian Dierch, the Maracana stadium would surely help the kids to hone their skills alongside their live lesson through sports. ”And we (Dortmund) especially feel proud that Adeyemi has his own foundation and willing to be responsible for Africa and to do good things- charitable work and this is something we will like to see as a club,” he said.

According to the chairman of Nathaniel Idowu Foundation, Yemi Idowu, the presence of Adeyemi would surely inspire most youngsters in the area.

“So what we are having today is the children's Christmas party, so we took the opportunity to welcome Adeyemi. Kareem Adeyemi Foundation supported the construction of one of the hostels.

“The kids showed a lot of enthusiasm, some of them are young to understand what this is all about but at least they will remember that when they were young they came to a place like this. For the old ones, it is just a way to reinforce the spirit behind this place which is where you can play with kids that come from all over the state of your own peer group,” Idowu said.

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 27, 2023 • T H I S D AY

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MISSILE Alia to Rumour-Mongers

“I want to unambiguously debunk the circulating rumours of discord between the SGF and myself. These speculations exist solely in the imaginative realm of opportunists, instigators of turmoil, and merchants of mischief who thrive on chaos” - Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has denying his reported with the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume while describing the SGF as a national pride.

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Mega Stories of 2023

I

n the course of the year, Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa state raised the alarm about some coastal communities in the state being submerged by ocean surge.

Members of the affected communities appeared on television agonising that their ancestral homes and farm lands had been washed away by the Atlantic ocean. The governor spoke of the infrastructural needs to check the vanishing of the devasted communities which include Odioama, Koluama, Sangana, Agge.

Expectedly, Diri called on the federal government to come to the rescue of the oil-rich state.

If anyone still needs a proof of the reality of the looming catastrophe called climate change, the doubter should ask the residents of these communities who are living victims. The ecological disaster being experienced in that corner of Nigeria strikes a chord with citizens of many tiny Islands in different parts of the world which risk disappearing soon if concrete steps are not urgently taken to reverse the trend. The Bayelsa communities are as environmentally endangered as islands such as Fiji, Kiribati, Palau, Maldives, Seychelles, Solomon Island, Micronesia, Cartaret, Marshal Island, Tuvalu, Torres Strait, Cabo Verde, Tangier and Sarichef Island. Some of these Islands are, in fact, nations flying their flags at the United Nations. Their cries were loud at the recent United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 28), which was held in Dubai, United Araba Emirates.

Viewed from the global perspective, the tragic stories are more topical in the long run. The stories are about the people whose lands may no longer exist in a few years from now. The real threat to these mostly helpless people is the consequence of global warming. In a fundamental sense, climate change is more topical than the stories of geo-politics, economic competition and

Governor Douye Diri man-made disasters such as the Israel war on Gaza and the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

To solve the socio-economic, political and cultural problems mankind needs a secure habitat to live in comfortably in order to carry out the various activities.

The only habitat is the earth, which is threatened in a way that not many people could yet comprehend the gravity of the danger. Despite the racial, ethnic, ideological or geo-political differences humanity is bound inextricably to share only this one common habitat, at least for now. So in terms of topicality, the danger of climate change could only compare with the ferment so far generated by the promise and peril

of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Little surprise that the popular London-based magazine, “New Scientist,” declared in its December 16 edition that 2023 could as well be described as “A Year of Two Stories.” The two stories identified by the magazine are about Climate Change and AI. Perhaps not many Nigerian editors would dispute this verdict of the editors of the New Scientist.” This, of course, is because of obvious reasons. What with the transformative impact of AI on material science, chemistry and weather forecasting, the technology may change science itself as we know it as well as human civilisation. On the flip side is the danger that AI may facilitate digital misinformation and manipulation. It would be easier to produce fake videos with AI. The real post-truth age may have just begun in earnest.

This dark side of AI should be read within the context of the ethical anxiety about the new technology in general. Experts of various hues are also pointing attention to the ills of excessive automation, intrusive surveillance and the tendency to worsen inequality instead of sharing prosperity. There is also excessive concentration of power in the hands of a few tech giants. It is now said that the old capitalism thrived on markets and profits while the new one, dominated by the tech giants, rests on platforms and rents.

Perhaps, climate change may resonate more with the people. July this year has gone down on record as the hottest month ever. The hottest days, according to scientists, were July 3, 4 and 5. Wild fires were recorded in parts of the world with hundreds of lives lost.

It is remarkable that the “New Scientist” draws a nexus between the stories of climate change and the AI revolutions: the decisions taken today on AI and climate change could potentially determine the

TunDEOlusunle

material fate of billions of people in different parts of the world even in the immediate future. Hence the political authorities should act fast in demonstrating the will to find solutions. It is important to take a long view of history in this process.

To reverse the negative macro trends for humanity, global cooperation is needed among nations rather than the pursuit of blind capitalist competition and the craving for geo-political hegemony.

This is an imperative imposed on mankind by scientific reality.

Given the collective danger posed by the negative mega trends, the differences among nations and peoples naturally pale into insignificance.

This point was demonstrated in a 33-page landmark report of the American National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) that was released in September.

According to the report, NASA has taken “concrete action” in the exploration of the Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs). In fact, one of the steps is to rename UFOs as Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAPs) as part of the change of gear in space exploration.

NASA’s administrator, Bill Nelson, admitted that another earth could indeed be in existence given the reality of billions of stars in billions of galaxies. Nelson said: “if you ask me do I believe there is life in a universe that’s so vast that it’s hard for me to comprehend how big it is, my personal answer is yes.” According to the NASA chief, viewed against these possibilities in the space, man might just be like a “speck,” in the system in which all the socio- political and racial differences are of no importance.

Doubtless, the issues thrown up by these mega stories this year should compel greater global cooperation and political will in the coming year and beyond.

guest columnist

Senator Akume at 70

A

head of the proclamation of the “Eighth Senate” of the National Assembly of the Federal Republic, and the election of its leadership, the name of George Akume was a recurring decimal. He ticked the boxes, meeting all the criteria laid out for a President of the Senate for that season. He was very highly favoured to clinch the top job. Among other considerations, he is from the North Central geopolitical zone to which the office was zoned. Secondly, he was a ranking Senator, having been first elected to represent Benue North West, in 2007 and reelected in 2015 and subsequently in 2019, respectively. Akume indeed previously served for two terms as Governor of his state, Benue, between 1999 and 2007. This implied he had substantial grounding in governance, policy and statecraft. He was indeed a career bureaucrat who rose to the very peak of his calling before contesting for public office. Akume and I developed a robust relationship during his years as governor which has been sustained up till the present.

Did I hear someone re-echo the truism that cultivating and sustaining relationships is second nature for self-confident, amiable and questing journalists?

I was a close aide of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, during which I held a number of critical briefs. I was something of a regular fixture not only in the president’s local engagements, but also his official movements around the country and on the global scene. Elsewhere, I’ve

Senator George Akume been described as a “multitasking professional” which would suggest that I get to manage many schedules and assignments at the same time. I was equally very close to Akume’s deputy at the time, Ogirri Ajene, the down-to-earth, jolly blue-blood from Idoma land, who sadly passed about a decade ago.

My very good friend and brother of over four decades beginning from our years in the classroom in the University of Ilorin, Tivlumun Gabriel Nyitse, was also prominent in the Benue State bureaucracy. He subsequently became a notable figure in the politics of the state. First, he rose to the position of managing director and chief executive of the state-owned newspapers The

Voice. He was later appointed Permanent Secretary by Akume and functioned variously in the Office of the Secretary to the State Government and the Ministry of Information and Culture, respectively, under Akume’s leadership. Such was my interconnectedness with the Benue system, which has endured till this time.

In the weeks preceding the proclamation of the “Eighth Senate,” Akume’s Maitama, Abuja home, became a Mecca for the political class. There was a virtual round-the-clock streaming in and out by fellow politicians, friends and associates, who bought into the prospects of an Akume senate presidency. Quite a number of latter day top functionaries in the Muhammadu Buhari presidency including subsequent members of the Federal Executive Council, (FEC), took their places in his waiting room, bidding their time in the listless comings and goings, those days. The otherwise spacious premises of Akume’s home, “shrank,” literally, overwhelmed by the sudden invasion of political supporters and admirers alike. His kitchen relocated to an external annex to cope with the culinary demands of the ever surging human traffic.

A few of us, media friends of Akume, thought of how best to impact the project. We constituted ourselves into an informal “support group.” We reasoned among other things, that Akume needed heightened media visibility so as to properly position him for the coming “battle.”

We wrote essays and articles which were accorded wide ventilation in the mainstream and online press.

We followed up on his consultations, engagements and meetings across the country in that quest, and regularly put out new stories. The “rapid response” component of the team replied real-time to media distortions and jaundiced representations of our “candidate.” It was an amazed and appreciative Akume who woke up each day to his file of national dailies to see the good job done on him by volunteers who were sold on his aspiration.

Akume, unfortunately, didn’t make it to the senate presidency. As we say, the rest is history. Bukola Saraki his colleague who won the contest, assigned him the chairmanship of the Senate Committee on the Nigerian Army. In the Seventh Senate, Akume was Minority Leader between 2011 to 2015. That was when the Peoples’ Democratic Party, (PDP), dominated the executive and legislative arms of government, under the superintendence of President Goodluck Jonathan. He had previously chaired important committees in the upper legislature and served in a broad spectrum of other organs of the parliament. He become something of a repository of legislative experience. Such systemic entrenchment is imperative for the growth and development of democratic structures in a country notorious for its scant attention for the preservation of institutional memory.

Continued online

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

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