Tinubu to Wike: We Will Welcome You to APC Anytime You Are Ready
Says govt won’t backtrack in service to people despite opposition by political naysayers FCT Minister to President: Coalition against you has failed Peter Obi, opposition group berate FCTA for spending N39bn to renovate ICC, renaming facility after Tinubu
President Bola Tinubu yesterday, extended an open invitation to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Mr. Nyesom Wike, to the All
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Tinubu to Present National Broadcast, in Address from National Assembly
George urges president to use the opportunity to reinstate Fubara Ex-IYC leader alleges suspended gov not ready for reconciliation Nation’s leaders, others applaud progress made under democracy, recount ordeals
Most Influential Leaders of Nigeria’s Democracy in Policy &
Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha, Olawale Ajimotokan and Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
Olawale Ajimotokan, Sunday Aborisade, Juliet Akoje in Abuja, Segun James in Lagos and Blessing
Ibunge in Port Harcourt President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, will
Remi Tinubu
Gilbert Chagoury Seyi Tinubu
Aliko Dangote
Wale Tinubu
Nyesom Wike
Godswill Akpabio
Sikiru Adekunle Tinubu Yinka Tinubu
Dipo Eludoyin
INAUGURATION OF ARTERIAL ROAD N16 SHEHU SHAGARI WAY FROM RING ROAD...
Managing
CGC Nigeria Limited, Zhonh Xiang; Minister of state for FCT, Dr.
House
yesterday
Report: Banks Need to Rethink, Remodel, Restrategise Operations
The Nigerian banking sector stands at a critical crossroads as shifting customer demographics, digital disruption, and evolving lifestyle preferences continue to reshape expectations, a new report has warned.
It stressed that traditional banking models may no longer be sufficient to serve an increasingly youthful, tech-savvy, and experience-driven customer base.
With Gen Z and millennials rapidly becoming the dominant segment in financial services consumption, analysts at Proshare Limited, a research and business information organisation, in a report titled: ‘Tier 1 Banks Report: Getting Bigger, Braver, and Dominant - The Class of 2025,’ launched in Lagos, yesterday, urged to rethink, remodel, and restrategise their operations to remain competitive and relevant in a fast-changing landscape.
It pointed out that the now larger banks would need to meet “the requirements of baby boomers who are wealthy but now in retirement or preparing to retire, and the millennials and Gen Zs that are growing new wealth from different economic sectors and business channels.”
It added: “For example, several young Nigerians are generating money from software development and coding skills, therefore, banks will need to identify the needs of these digital natives and design methods of supporting them.
to Meet Changing Customer Demography
“Beyond programmers and software developers, Nigeria is witnessing an explosion of young talents in music and movies, these gifted individuals require a bouquet of banking services ranging from personal financial management, small and medium enterprise funding, to wealth management and assurance services.”
The Proshare report suggested that the now “bigger-sized” banks need to be imaginative, agile, and flexible if they are going to support the scaling up of the Nigerian economy into a $1 trillion continental behemoth by 2030, as envisioned by the federal government.
It further pointed out that scaling up banking sector activities over the next half decade will align with the growth aspirations of the federal government, but would require local banks to deconstruct Nigeria’s 46 sectors into what Proshare researchers identified as 14 sub-economies.
With increasingly larger equity bases and untroubled by liquidity and the cost of bank deposits, banks are expected to find more creative ways of offering medium to long-term financing options to emerging growth sectors as they rebalance their lending portfolios, it noted.
Proshare analysts believe that sub-economies that may benefit from the recapitalisation of banks include, but not limited to, the marine and blue economy, the entertainment and arts economy, the hospitality and real estate economy, and the mineral mining and energy economies.
“With an avalanche of sectoral data and greater proficiency in using Artificial Intelligence (AI), credit decision-making could be better and faster. Upscaling the interaction between technology and ‘fuzzy’ human logic and knowledge should lead to clever lending outcomes. The transition to ‘headless’ banking, for example, would improve both frontend and backend banking operations
Banking as a service (BaaS) is becoming an increasingly dominant theme in the financial services sector. Banks are transitioning from brickand-mortar service providers to digital
intermediaries between customers, retail vendors, wholesale providers, and manufacturers. The whole commercial economic ecosystem is shifting to digital platforms to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and meet customer service expectations.
“Banks’ digital incomes as a proportion of their gross earnings have steadily risen, with some banks growing faster than others.
In this report, the analysts note that traditional bank service delivery has gone from face-to-face credit and non-credit service administration to digital platforms for the processing of specific customer requests.
“If all loan application spreadsheet fields are filled, banks can verify the data and embark on a physical inspection of commercial or production sites, Credit Appraisal Memoranda (CAM) are faster to process, and loan approval mandates are easier to give.
“The new digital realities enable banks to offer their customers improved service journey experiences. This means that banks with better technology attract improved patronage, generate higher earnings, and provide their investors with superior equity returns (ROE),” it stated.
At a time of banking recapitalisation, the report highlighted that banks are forced to make certain strategic decisions, some of which it listed to include: “Grow the business organically or grow inorganically, which means that a bank could grow its business by setting up new branches, or it could simply take over the branches of other banks it acquires. Both approaches have their benefits and costs.
“Create uncommon relationships with fintech companies in an environment of ‘Co-opetition’ or cooperating while competing or acquire fintech expertise and domesticate it within the bank itself as a wholly owned foundry.
Presidency: Over 100,000 Nigerians Access Life-enhancing Goods Via CREDICORP
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
No fewer than 100,201 Nigerians, including over 35,000 civil servants, have benefited from the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP), an initiative established by President Bola Tinubu to expand access to affordable consumer credit nationwide. Presidential spokesperson, Mr Sunday Dare, who made this disclosure, stated that the initiative, launched as
to
Tackle Rural Connectivity Challenges
part of Tinubu’s economic reform agenda, aimed to democratise access to credit and improve quality of life by enabling responsible and affordable borrowing.
Goods and services accessed included vehicles, solar home systems, digital devices, home improvement items, equipment and machinery, and other essential consumer items.
Quoting CREDICORP, the presidential aide said a remarkable 64 per cent of the beneficiaries were first-time credit users, a significant breakthrough in a country where access to formal credit had historically been a challenge for average citizens.
Dare added that the initiative
aligned with Tinubu’s broader economic vision to boost local production, fight corruption by reducing the desperation linked to lack, and empower ordinary Nigerians, with tools for a better life.
Writing on his verified Xhandle: @SundayDareSD on Wednesday, the presidential media aide stated that by expanding consumer credit responsibly, the administration hoped to stimulate domestic demand and support local industries.
“This credit changed everything for me.”
Aisha Yusuf, a teacher in Kano, was able to purchase a solar power system for her home.
“We used to suffer frequent blackouts. Now my children can study at night,” Civil servants across the nation have also hailed the programme as a timely intervention.
barriers, explore innovative funding mechanisms, ensure sustainable renewable solutions and strengthen collaboration with stakeholders.
Shedding more light on the scheme, Managing Director of CREDICORP, Dr Salisu Abdul, said, “This isn’t just about loans. It’s about unlocking the dignity and potential of millions who were previously excluded from the formal credit system.
Court Orders Status Quo in LafargeHuaxin Deal Amid Appeal Over Jurisdiction NCC, Stakeholders Collaborate
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has collaborated with the Association for Progressive Communications and other institutional stakeholders towards addressing challenges confronting rural network connectivity in Nigeria.
The collaboration resulted in a two-day workshop, which held recently in Abuja to explore policy framework for enabling community networks towards bridging the digital divide and accelerating socio-economic development in Nigeria’s underserved and unserved communities.
The forum brought together regulators, community leaders, technical experts and potential foreign investors, among others, to examine policy and regulatory
Addressing participants at the workshop, the Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, said the workshop was important, aimed at bridging the digital divide in Nigeria and fostering inclusive social economic development.
“The workshop is an opportunity for all of us to harness the expertise, insights, and experiences of diverse stakeholders present here which includes the regulators, community leaders, technical experts and potential foreign providers to address the critical challenges such as affordable devices, access, licensing, spectrum allocation, infrastructure development, sustainability and institutional monitoring,”
Maida, represented by the Executive Commissioner, Technical Services at NCC, Abraham Oshadami, also said the workshop demonstrated NCC’s commitment to advancing digital inclusion, particularly in underserved and unserved areas.
“At NCC, we recognise the transformative potential of community center networks in achieving this important goal,” Maida added.
According to him, NCC is committed to “this journey and views this workshop as a catalyst for meaningful change,” adding that the expertise, perspectives and commitments will shape the future where every Nigerian, regardless of his or her status, will have meaningful access to opportunities from digital connectivity.
Wale Igbintade
Justice Lewis Allagoa of the Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered parties in the ongoing legal dispute over the sale of Lafarge Africa Plc to Chinese firm Huaxin Cement Ltd to maintain the status quo pending the outcome of an appeal. The order followed the filing of a Notice of Appeal by Lafarge Africa, challenging the court’s earlier decision that dismissed its objection to jurisdiction.
The suit was instituted by Strategic Consultancy Ltd, a Nigerian firm and shareholder in Lafarge Africa, seeking to halt what it called the “surreptitious” divestment of Lafarge’s 83.81 percent stake by the Holcim Group—a Swiss multinational and Lafarge’s parent company. Strategic Consultancy is asking the court to determine whether the transaction violates Nigerian corporate and investment laws, including the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) 2020, the Securities and
“I got a laptop and a motorbike. This has boosted both my side hustle and my official productivity,” said Chinedu Okafor, a public officer based in Enugu.
Exchange Commission (SEC) Act, and the Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC) Act—particularly in relation to minority shareholder rights and foreign ownership regulations.
During the proceedings, Lafarge Africa’s counsel, Mr. Babatunde Fagbohunlu, SAN, informed the court that the appeal had already been filed, and that records of proceedings had been transmitted to the Court of Appeal, along with an application for a stay of proceedings.
Obinna Chima
L–R:
Director,
Mariya Mahmoud; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike; Deputy Senate President, Jubrin Barau; and Deputy Speaker,
of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, during the inauguration of Arterial Road N16 Shehu Shagari Way from Ring Road 1 (Nnamdi Azikiwe Way) to Arterial Road N20 (Wole Soyinka Way) and other roads in Katampe District, held in Abuja,
PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI
Emma Okonji
Maida said.
INDEPENDENT PETROLEUM PRODUCERS GROUP’S VISIT TO LOKPOBIRI...
L–R: Chief Executive Officer, ND Western, Larne Kalejaiye; CEO, WalterSmith Petroma, Mr. Dapo Filani; Chairman, WalterSmith, Mr. Abdulrazaq Isa; Minister of state for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri; Chief Executive Officer, Frontier, Dada Thomas; Chief Executive Officer, Aradel, Gbite Falade; Asset Manager, Renaissance Africa, Trost Amos; and Commercial Lead, ND Western, Mr. Sunday Okunbor, during the Independent Petroleum Producers Group’s visit to the
yesterday
At 68th UN Regional Meeting, Tinubu Canvasses
Adoption of Pro Eco-friendly Tourism Policies in Africa
Africa captures only 5% of $11tn global tourism business
President Bola Tinubu has called on African countries to adopt policies that promote eco-friendly tourism and preserve cultural heritage across the continent. Specifically, he sought practical solutions and alliances that would boost investment in tourism infrastructure, deepen the sector’s role in actualising the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on the African continent.
The president disclosed this, Wednesday, when he declared
open the 68th meeting of the UN Tourism Commission for Africa (CAF) in Abuja, saying the target is to make sure Africa becomes the heart of global discourse in terms of how to harness tourism’s full potential to boost the continent’s economy.
President Tinubu, represented at the event by Vice President Kashim Shettima, declared Nigeria’s support for adopting sustainable tourism practices across Africa, which he said reflect the continent’s unique challenges.
He said: “By collaborating with regional bodies, such as the African Union, ECOWAS and UN Tourism,
Nigeria encourages other African nations to adopt policies promoting eco-friendly tourism and preserving cultural heritage.
“This collaboration includes sharing best practices, tourism training, developing joint marketing campaigns for sustainable tourism and improving infrastructure to support intra-African travel.
“Through these regional initiatives, Africa can foster a continent-wide movement toward tourism that benefits both the people and the environment, driving long-term prosperity for Africa.”
President Tinubu observed that
tourism goes beyond “travelling or visiting historic sites, waterfalls, mountains, and parks,” just as he maintained the sector “is an engine of local economies, a catalyst for social understanding, and a bridge that unites cultures.”
“The advent of technology and creativity has transformed tourism and its opportunities. Therefore, it is appropriate that this conference highlight the impact of AI, Innovation, and Creative Industries on the tourism sector,” he added.
Highlighting the role of Nigeria’s creative industries in global tourism, which encompass music, film,
Jonathan Urges African Leaders to Prioritise Policies that Promote Lending to Farmers
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has called on African governments to implement policies that ensure farmers’ access to affordable credit, aiming to enhance food production and security across the continent.
A statement by his media aide, Ikechukwu Eze, said Joathan also emphasised the imperative of de-risking lending in agriculture, statng that the challenge of providing the collateral often demanded of farmers by lending institutions was negatively affecting the growth of the sector.
Jonathan was quoted to have made the remarks at the opening plenary of the second edition of the African Conference on Agricultural Technologies (ACAT), in Kigali, Rwanda, on Tuesday. He also charged ministers of
agriculture to be focused and purpose-driven in the bid to improve food systems on the continent.
He said, “African governments must be deliberate with their policies towards promoting agriculture and incentivising farmers. If the government does not support farmers it will be difficult in this part of the world to produce enough food for our population.”
Jonathan urged African central banks to take the lead in the bid to promote lending to farmers, stressing that the issue of de-risking lending to farmers is critical.
“That is why I believe that the central banks of African countries must come up with models that would encourage commercial banks to lend to farmers,” he added.
Jonathan, an AATF goodwill ambassador, recalled that when he was president, his administration,
through the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), introduced the Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing Systems for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL).
He stated, “It was a $350 million initiative designed to de-risk lending to the agricultural sector. It became a successful programme that ensured that farmers had easy access to loans.
“The share of the total lending by banks allocated to the agricultural sector increased from 0.5 per cent, when we started, to five per cent by 2015.”
The former president stressed that agriculture ministers must have the motivation, competence and focus to run the ministry to ensure that relevant technologies and techniques were applied to produce enough food for the population.
He praised the competence of his agriculture minister, the immediate past President of the African
UNILAG, Bakare Float School of Good Governance
Segun James
The presiding pastor of the Citadel Global Community Church, Dr. Tunde Bakare, has said the nation is now at a critical point, Nigerians must address the root of governance capacity gaps both in the political, social and economic sphere, saying with the right tools, knowledge and skill, the nation’s problem is half solved.
Bakare said this during the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between the University of Lagos Business
School and the Citadel School of Governance being floated by the church.
According to him, “over the years, I have been privileged to lead several strategic interventions in governance: from national protests to policy advocacy; from education sector projects to local governance capacity building; from electoral participation to high-level, behindthe-scenes, political mediation and conflict resolution.
“But we have now come to a critical point, where we must address the root of governance
capacity gaps with the right tools – knowledge and skill as demonstrated by King David who shepherded Israel with the integrity of his heart and the skillfulness of his hands.
“The governance academy we briefly piloted under our registered NGO, “The International Centre for Reconstruction and Development” seven years ago, provided the curricular foundation for approaching the University of Lagos with a robust framework for the Advanced Diploma in Public Leadership and Statecraft.
Development Bank (AfDB), Dr. Akin Adesina.
Jonathan said Adesina’s ingenuity ensured that citizens did not go hungry during Nigeria’s 2014 devastating floods.
Jonathan further delivered a passionate call for sustained investment and unity in building Africa’s agricultural future.
He stated, “Africa stands at a historic crossroads. On one road lies the continued struggle with food insecurity; on the other lies a bold vision—Africa as a global powerhouse in food and nutritional security, powered by innovation and transformative investment.”
fashion, literature and digital arts, President Tinubu said the sector has “emerged as a powerful driver of economic growth, making significant contributions to the country’s GDP, job creation and economic diversification.”
“Nigeria’s Nollywood is one of the largest film industries in the world, generating substantial revenue from domestic and international markets. Similarly, the music and fashion industries have propelled Nigeria’s global cultural influence and generated income and employment opportunities.
“As we chart a new course for tourism in Africa, one thing is clear: the government cannot build the sector alone. It needs a partnership with the private sector. The sector’s growing complexity and opportunities demand this strategic partnership”, he further stated.
While declaring the regional meeting open, the Nigerian leader implored participants “to focus on practical solutions and collaborative strategies that will strengthen intraAfrican travel, boost investment in tourism infrastructure, empower local communities, and deepen tourism’s role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and making African tourism the heart of the global conversation.”
Earlier, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, in her speech, urged African nations to leverage innovation, artificial intelligence (AI), and creative industries to unlock the continent’s vast potential in global tourism.
Expressing her deep conviction in
language, and identity.
Popular
has been appointed as the new Director to lead the revival of the Nsibidi Institute, located in Lagos, after five years of inactivity.
According to the announcement made by the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Nsibidi Foundation, the appointment signals a renewed commitment to advancing heritage and cultural research on the continent.
The Nsibidi Institute is an independent research and cultural organisation based in Lagos, Nigeria. Its work centers on preserving, exploring, and reimagining indigenous knowledge systems, particularly those rooted in Nigerian history,
Keazor, a Nigerian historian, archivist and filmmaker, officially assumed the position on June 2, 2025. With a career spanning over three decades, he is widely recognised for his contributions to historical scholarship and cultural preservation.
A Fellow of the Royal Society for the Arts and an Associate Fellow of the Royal Historical Society, his curatorial and creative works include the First Bank and TotalEnergies mobile museums, and the acclaimed film ‘January 15, 1970’. More recently, he worked as Consultant Historian on the documentaries ‘The Decolonisation of Africa’ and ‘Journey of
President Tinubu’s vision for Nigeria, Musawa stated: “I am passionate about Nigeria and the mission and commitment of President Tinubu. I believe in it because of his vision for Nigeria, which I believe will enable the country to take a seat in the comity of global nations as a developed nation. I pray the same for every African nation, and urge us all to rise together.”
The minister noted that President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” is the guiding principle for Nigeria’s sectoral transformation, emphasising that “Africa stands at the forefront of change. The 21st century demands that we build economies not just from the ground but on people-powered prosperity, through tourism, culture, the creative economy and the arts.”
Musawa said the event’s theme, “Boosting Social Impact and Education in Tourism via Innovation, AI, and Creative Industries in Africa,” highlights that the future of Africa’s prosperity depends on how boldly and broadly it uses technology to empower people.
She pointed out that while the global industry is valued at over $11 trillion, Africa accounts for less than 5% of global tourism revenue and under 1% of global creative exports.
“This is not a deficit or talent scarcity. Today, Nigeria invites Africa to close that gap,” she said.
On his part, the Secretary-General of UN Tourism, Ambassador Zurab Pololikashvi commended the Tinubu administration for supporting the transformation of the tourism industry in Nigeria, which, according to him, will impact the rest of Africa.
the Beats’, both of which received critical praise. In 2015, Keazor was honoured by the African Society of Cambridge University for his work in African history.
Speaking on his appointment, Keazor expressed gratitude to the Foundation’s Board and hinted on an ambitious turnaround plan. He noted that the Institute would soon roll out a comprehensive programme of research, public events, and digital tools, marking a fresh chapter for the platform. The Nsibidi Institute, an initiative of the Foundation, is dedicated to the documentation, study and promotion of African heritage. Keazor’s leadership is expected to steer it into a new era of relevance and impact, the Board stated.
Minister’s office in Abuja,
PHOTO: KINGSLEY ADEBOYE
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Historian, Emeka Keazor,
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
Deji Elumoye and Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
WORLD ANTI-COUNTERFEITING DAY...
L–R: Assistant Director, Investigation and Enforcement Directorate, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Mr. Kunle Ojo; Company Secretary and Legal Director, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Mrs. Abidemi Ademola; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Mr. Girish Sharma; and Human Resources Director, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Mrs. Ayodeji Ajibola, at the World Anti-Counterfeiting Day session held in Ikeja, Lagos, yesterday
Nigeria Records N5.17trn
James Emejo in Abuja Nigeria’s balance of trade - the difference between its exports and imports of goods and servicesincreased by 51.07 per cent to N5.17 trillion in the first quarter of the year (Q1 2025) compared to the previous quarter, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) revealed yesterday.
Total merchandise trade stood at N36.02 trillion, representing an increase of 6.19 per cent, compared to N33.92 trillion in Q1 2024. However, compared to the preceding quarter, trade decreased by 1.58 per cent compared to N36.60 trillion.
According to the Foreign Trade Statistics for Q1 2025, exports accounted for 57.18 per cent of total trade with a value of N20.59 trillion, an increase of 7.42 per cent compared to N19.17 trillion in Q1 2024 and N20.01 trillion.
Exports trade continued to be dominated by crude oil valued at N12.95 trillion or 62.89 per cent of total exports while the value of non-crude oil exports stood at N7.64 trillion, accounting for 37.11 per cent of total exports of which
non-oil products contributed N3.16 trillion or 15.38 per cent of total exports.
Nigeria exported goods mainly to Europe, valued at N8.64 trillion or 41.96 per cent of total exports, followed by exports to Asia at N6.75 trillion or 32.79 per cent while exports to America were valued at N3.32 trillion, representing 16.16 per cent of total exports.
Exports to Africa stood at N1.85 trillion or nine per cent of the total exports; out of which, good exported to ECOWAS countries were valued at N1.06 trillion or 57.58 per cent of the total exports to Africa.
India emerged as the main export with N2.84 trillion or 13.80 per cent of total exports, followed by exports to The Netherlands.
However, imports accounted for 42.82 per cent of total trade in the review period with N15.42 trillion, representing a 4.59 per cent increase compared to N14.74 trillion but 7.02 per cent decrease from N16.59 trillion in Q4 2024.
The country imported goods mainly from Asia, valued at N8.77 trillion, representing 56.87 per cent of total imports.
This was followed by imports
from Europe N3.26 trillion or 21.14 per cent, America N2.29 trillion or 14.86 per cent, while imports from Oceania stood at N98.61 billion or 0.64 per cent.
Trade Surplus in Q1
Imports to African countries stood at N1 trillion or 6.49 per cent of total imports, of which imports from ECOWAS countries amounted to N200.36 billion or 1.30 per cent
of total imports. Imports from China topped N4.65 trillion, representing 30.19 per cent of total imports. This was followed by imports
from India with N1.71 trillion, representing 11.13 per cent of total imports. The United States accounted for N1.42 trillion or 9.22 per cent of total imports.
FCCPC: Nigerian Markets Flooded with Fake, Substandard Consumer Products
We are
James Emejo in Abuja
Executive Vice Chairman (EVC)/ Chief Executive, Federal Competitive and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), Mr. Tunji Bello, yesterday inaugurated the first set of the Joint Market Monitoring Taskforce (JMMT) to tackle widespread products counterfeiting in the country.
He said, “It’s no news that our markets are flooded with fake, counterfeit and substandard
Rural Education: NGO Equips Over 200 Educators in Delta with Learning Tools
Over 200 teachers, school leaders, and policymakers have been trained and equipped with various learning tools in Delta state, as part of a broader mission to promote sustainable rural development through education, empowerment, and community engagement.
The two-day event which took place in Sapele came under the ‘Education Without Borders’ initiative, an impactful programme designed to bridge educational gaps in underserved communities in South-south Nigeria.
Now in its third edition out of the five-year programme, it was organised by the Rural Development and Reformation Foundation (RUDERF), founded by Alero Ogholi, and was held in partnership with the TY Danjuma Foundation and the Delta State Ministry of Education.
A statement from RUDERF said that the development marked a major milestone in efforts to close the quality gap in rural education, especially in areas where schools
operate with little to no access to digital infrastructure or modern teaching tools.
With the theme: “From Access to Impact: Strengthening Public Education Through Digital Equity for Teachers Development and Students Success” the training empowered educators to adopt inclusive, learner-centred approaches particularly Activity-Based Learning (ABL) that are both scalable and suited for low-tech environments.
Through interactive workshops and technical sessions participants explored how to turn everyday materials into powerful teaching tools and how to lead systemic change in their respective schools, the statement added.
“The training featured top-tier facilitators and thought leaders in education who delivered impactful sessions on key areas of teaching and learning. One set of sessions focused on the foundations and design of activity-based learning in low-tech classrooms, guiding teachers to move beyond rote memorisation and embrace interactive, child-led
approaches that nurture creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration.
“Another session explored AI, EdTech, and the future of learning, offering practical strategies for educators to integrate technology no matter how minimal into their classrooms. These insights were especially valuable for school leaders aiming to future-proof their teaching methods.
“The final session, titled: ‘Educators as Mentors,’ reminded teachers of their pivotal role not just as instructors, but as life-shaping guides. Participants were encouraged to see themselves as torchbearers for their students’ aspirations, shaping not only academic outcomes but personal growth and lifelong potential,” the release added.
Throughout the event, it said that attendees were given opportunities to collaborate, problem-solve, and network with peers from across the local government, while educators shared their experiences, challenges, and hopes for a better education system underscoring the power of community-driven transformation.
to
consumer products that are not-fit for intended purposes or clearly unsafe or injurious to consumer welfare.”
Speaking at the inauguration of the taskforce in Abuja, Bello noted that at a time when both consumers and businesses are experiencing economic challenges, getting value for money expended on products had becomes imperative.
Represented by FCCPC Director, Surveillance and Investigations, Mrs. Boladale Adeyinka, the EVC pointed out that the event underscored FCCPC’s commitment and resolve to protect Nigerian consumers from harmful and unsafe products and also to promote business competitiveness in the Nigerian market.
According to him, relevant Sections of the FCCP Act mandates the commission to seek ways and means of removing hazardous and unsafe products from our markets, eliminate
obnoxious and unscrupulous business and marketing practices that are deceptive unfair, and misleading, including anti-competitive practices that substantially prevent or lessen competition in our markets.
He said the commission in delivering her mandate, priorities cooperation and collaboration with key stakeholders for greater success.
The FCCPC boss noted that there are many players and stakeholders in the marketplaces, adding that effective market monitoring operations required all hands to be on deck.
He stressed that regulators as well as the market executives or market union leaders needed to come together as a team to make the market work for all.
Bello further explained that the inauguration included the first set of JMMT covering four Markets within the FCT as the commission flagged-
off Phase 1 of the joint marketing monitoring operations which will be established in all markets across the country.
Stakeholders present at the august event included representatives of four markets within the FCT namely Wuse Market, Utako Market, Garki International Market and Garki Modern Market. He said the terms of reference to guide the operations of JMMT had been discussed and communicated to members of the taskforce who have also made commitments to support the commission’s effort. He solicited the cooperation of the public in providing credible information, intelligence or alert on any violations of any consumer protection laws or enactment in the country via the commission’s email, hot lines, complaint portal or any of social media handles.
Civil Service Operations December 2025
The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, (HCSF) Mrs. Didi WalsonJack, has assured that the operations of civil servants across the nation would be paperless by December 31st, 2025. She made this known yesterday in Abuja, at a World Press Conference ahead of the International Civil Service Conference and the African Public Service Week scheduled for June 25 to 26 in Abuja.
She noted that one of the strategic plans for the year was to ensure digitalisation of their operations, stating that despite funding challenges, the government would ensure the
acceleration and implementation of the digitalisation process.
“The race to December 31st is on, the civil service, by the grace of God, and with our working very hard, will go paperless by December 31st, 2025.
“And I’d like to just add that the digital transformation is not only about going paperless. Going paperless means that we are automating our work processes and our workflows. But we want to go beyond that.”
Similarly, Walson-Jack disclosed that in line with achieving a world-class civil service, over 31,000 civil servants now have official emails from the GovMail platform.
“GovMail is a secure platform for interaction of civil servants using official
emails. And I can tell you, yesterday, I looked at the dashboard, and right now we have over 31,000 civil servants having official emails from the GovMail platform. So that is one good thing that came out of the war room.”. She also said a recent study tour to Singapore was part of preparatory activities aimed at positioning Nigeria’s civil service for excellence and attracting global participation in the upcoming events. She noted that the study tour to Singapore was the first major activity undertaken under the collaboration between the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation and the Heads of Service of the 36 states and the FCT.
Olawale Ajimotokan and Folalumi Alaran in Abuja
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Preventing Misuse of The Cybercrimes Act: Protecting Free Speech And Unlocking Economic Growth
By: Richard M. Mills, Jr., U.S. Embassy; Richard Montgomery, British High Commission; Sanna Selin, Embassy of Finland; Svein Baera, Embassy of Norway and Pasquale
Salvaggio, Canadian High Commission
On Democracy Day, the heads of missions of the United States, United Kingdom, Finland, Norway, and Canada would like to recognise and congratulate the Nigerian people’s commitment to 26 years of democratic governance. Healthy democracies are formed of many important ingredients and when marking 25 years of democracy in Nigeria in 2024, President Tinubu underlined that in Nigeria “there must be diverse perspectives and viewpoints.” Free expression has long been a core value of Nigeria’s democracy. Nigeria’s constitution enshrines the right to freedom of expression, aiming to protect its citizens’ rights and foster a society where people can debate and discuss ideas free from government control.
Also yesterday, the presidential candidate of Labour Party in the last general election, Mr. Peter Obi, berated the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) for spending N39 billion to renovate the International Conference Centre (ICC), which was on Tuesday, renamed after President Tinubu.
Likewise, the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) described as brazen, the renaming of the ICC after a sitting president.
Speaking at the inauguration of Arterial Road Number N16 Shehu Shagari Way, from Ring Road Nnamdi Azikiwe to Arterial Road Number N20 Wole Soyinka Way in Abuja, President Tinubu declared: “We
This right, a principle of trusting ordinary citizens to have discussion in the virtual public square, remains vital today.
In April, Nigeria’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) raised concerns about the 2015 Cybercrimes Act, the amendments made to it in 2024, and the law’s impact on free expression. The Act has laudable aims: to combat online fraud and cyberattacks. There is growing
have somebody in Nyesom Wike. He’s not a member of my party, not yet, but the day he changes his mind and registers with progressives, we will welcome him because we will enjoy him in singing “as e dey pain them, e dey sweet us.”
Tinubu pledged not to go back in service to the people by providing necessary infrastructure nationwide despite strong opposition by political naysayers.
The President said: “I reaffirm our commitment that we will continue to build, we will continue to serve the people, no matter how much the naysayers pursue their politics.”
He stressed that it was through investment in various sectors that the potential of the country could be unlocked.
According to him, “Infrastructure
evidence, however, that the Act is being misused by some to silence criticism and dissent. The NHRC’s advisory opinion on freedom of expression warned that it “has potentials for abuse, particularly with respect to arrests and prosecutions of activists, journalists, bloggers, and ordinary social media users.”
In addition, in 2022 the ECOWAS Court of Justice ruled that the Act is not in conformity with the country’s
is not a luxury, it is a necessity. It is the bedrock of national competitiveness, growth, social integration and economic opportunity. We recognise that our nation’s development is linked to the quality of infrastructure, connecting people, cities and industry. There is no way industrialisation will flourish without good roads.
“We are investing in roads, rail, power, healthcare, education and digital infrastructure. It is only through this coordinated and integrated development that we can unlock Nigeria’s full potential. I promise you, we will.”
Tinubu urged the community to protect the inaugurated road, saying the government has done its part by ensuring due completion of the road for the use of motorists.
“The road belongs to the com-
obligations related to freedom of expression under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
Misuse of the Cybercrimes Act undermines democratic advancement and civic participation. It also jeopardizes the confidence of investors and risks deterring the innovation needed for economic growth.
Consider the case of Dele
T I nubu To Pre S en T nATI on A l b roAD cAST, I n A DD re SS from nATI on A l ASS emblY planned against him by a group of politicians ahead of the 2027 election was doomed to fail.
The nationwide broadcast was one of the activities lined up to mark Democracy Day.
The statement came as former Deputy National Chairman of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, urged Tinubu to show statesmanship by reinstating suspended governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara.
However, former President of Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, Udengs Eradiri, alleged that Fubara was not ready for settlement of the political disagreements that preceded the declaration of emergency in the state and the governor’s suspension by Tinubu.
Nevertheless, leaders from all walks of life, especially from the political circles, applauded the progress so far made in the country under democracy, with many recalling personal experiences under the military rule.
Director, Information and Public Relations, Office of Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Segun Imohiosen, said, in the statement, that the national broadcast was cancelled because the president was scheduled to attend the National Assembly joint session the same day.
Imohiosen said Tinubu would now deliver his address from the National Assembly, adding, that all other plans remained as announced earlier.
George Urges Tinubu to Use June 12 Opportunity to Reinstate Fubara
Former Deputy National Chairman of PDP, Chief Olabode George, urged Tinubu to show statesmanship by reinstating suspended governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara.
George said restoration of the governor to his office should be done in the spirit of the June 12 anniversary as part of national reconciliation.
Fubara was suspended by Tinubu on March 18 due to some political disagreements in the oil-rich state.
Last week, Fubara visited Tinubu in Lagos during the Sallah celebration.
George stated his position on the issue in an open letter to commemorate the 32nd anniversary of the June 12, 1993 presidential election won by the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola, but annulled on June 23, 1993 by General Ibrahim Babangida.
The letter read, “If Tinubu could forgive Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, then he should extend same gesture to Fubara.
“On June 12, we will be celebrating Democracy Day. This is a reminder of the true meaning of democracy – the will of the people.
“Since Tinubu has forgiven SanwoOlu, then it makes a lot of sense, spiritually, to also forgive Fubara and let him return to office. I am talking as an elder.
“Let me also remind the president that he was in the forefront of those who fought the military, seeking a return to civilian rule.
“I still remember him coming to my office in Aso Rock, when he wanted to see General Diya. That was during the General Sani Abacha regime. He wanted to be deputy to Olagunsoye Oyinlola in Lagos then.
“He discussed with Diya but General Abacha eventually gave the position to Mrs. Okunnu. I know how passionate Tinubu was then about return to civil rule. He later joined NADECO to fight for democracy.
“Some of those who fought alongside him for democracy have died. It is not of his making that he is alive today. So, he should thank God, honour the memory of those who fought alongside him for democracy, and return Fubara to office immediately.”
The former PDP deputy national chairman added, “I also appeal to him, in the spirit of my maternal grand uncle, who founded the first political party in Nigeria in 1922, Herbert Macaulay, to, please, reinstate Fubara. Tinubu should listen to, and
honour this appeal in memory of all those who died in the journey to our democracy.”
Fubara Not Ready for Reconciliation, Ex-IYC Leader Alleges
Former President of Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, Udengs Eradiri, alleged that Fubara was not ready for the ongoing reconciliation process in the state.
The former Bayelsa State governorship aspirant, in a statement in Port Harcourt, yesterday, expressed disappointment over the politicisation of the reconciliation required to restore democratic governance in Rivers State. Eradiri alleged that the suspended governor had not displayed expected willingness and commitment to genuine reconciliation.
He said he was disturbed to hear that Fubara had not deepened the reconciliation process after his first meeting with Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
The former IYC president stated, “I was disturbed, shocked and surprised to hear that the suspended Governor Fubara has yet to hold reconciliatory meetings with some critical stakeholders, such as the Speaker and members of the suspended House of Assembly, aggrieved Rivers elders and those local government chairmen, who were once in the same political family with him.
“The recent media chat of Chief Wike is instructive and revealing, especially where he said Governor Fubara was doing reconciliation on television and radio. This for me is a low mark and does not sit well with the required antidote to resolve the crisis and return democracy to Rivers.”
Nigeria’s Democracy on Course, House Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, Declares
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin
munity and citizens of Abuja and to us as the federal government. I urge you to protect it and use it wisely. The government has played its part, we did not ignore it, we did not worry about protest,” he added.
The President lauded Wike and his team for the good work they have been doing to give Abuja a new look through positive development in the last two years.
“I commend the Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, his team, because he could not work alone, he could not achieve this alone without your collaboration as a team builder, a team player, it is impossible, but you have proved that teamship is the hallmark of good leadership,” he said.
In his remarks, Wike assured Tinubu that the coalition orchestrated against him ahead of the 2027 election
Kalu, expressed delight that Nigeria’s democratic journey was on course, yielding positive outcomes.
In a statement to mark Democracy Day, Kalu emphasised the significance of the day, saying it honours the struggles and sacrifices that have shaped Nigeria’s democracy.
Kalu stated that the 26 years of uninterrupted democratic governance in the country demonstrated Nigerians’ embrace of democratic ethos.
He said, “As we commemorate Democracy Day today, June 12, we honour the struggles and sacrifices that have shaped Nigeria’s democratic journey. This milestone serves as a poignant reminder of our collective quest for democratic governance, human rights, and the rule of law.”
Reflecting on the progress made, Kalu, who acknowledged the challenges ahead, reaffirmed his commitment to democratic principles and institutions.
He called for renewed resolve to build a more prosperous, united, and democratic Nigeria, where citizens’ rights are respected, and voices of all are heard.
The deputy speaker reiterated the parliament’s commitment to enacting people-oriented legislations that will improve the citizens’ lives.
Mohammed: June 12 Honours Sacrifices of Those Who Paid Ultimate Price, Stood Firm
Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, felicitate the people of Bauchi State and all Nigerians on the occasion of Democracy Day, saying It honours the sacrifices of those who stood firm in the face of oppression and paid the ultimate price in the struggle for democratic freedom.
Mohammed said Democracy Day, marked as a public holiday by Nigerians, served as a solemn reminder of the country’s collective journey
Farotimi, charged with 12 counts of cybercrime after he reported alleged corruption in the judiciary in a book and on a podcast. Farotimi was allegedly detained in Lagos, transported across state lines to Ekiti, and brought to court in handcuffs. Though the charges were eventually withdrawn, his ordeal highlights a troubling issue – the Cybercrimes Act, originally intended to combat online fraud and cyberterrorism, can
was doomed to failure.
He said the President’s good work had deflated the force in the coalition, members which according to him have been complaining.
“I hardly watch some stations but sometimes, I am spiritually touched to just tune and start watching. This morning I was touched and was watching. I didn’t know that people can be pained.
“And now I know some such people are pained. I now must continue to give them high blood pressure. That’s my job. I’ll be happy every time, moving, laughing, and they will be there fighting and shouting and killing themselves.
“So, Mr. President, we want to thank you that we are part of this, what is going on, the revolution that is going on. Your good work has killed the coalition. I was thinking that, truly, there would be a coalition. So, I told my people, make sure that every national television must be hooked in so that they can see what is happening every day,” Wike said.
The FCT Minister also conveyed the appreciation of the FCT residents to Tinubu over ongoing projects in the territory, which he said was in recognition of the efforts of the President to provide infrastructure that will ameliorate socio-economic challenges.
He, however, knocked the opposition, describing them as people who were disgruntled and never happy with what the administration was doing.
“Like you said yesterday, there are some people, whatever you do, they will never be happy. They were
be misused as a tool to stifle free expression and undermine democratic engagement. Farotimi is not alone. Journalists, activists, and ordinary citizens have faced similar charges for sharing opinions or reporting on alleged corruption. This distortion of the law’s original intent can lead to citizens becoming hesitant to speak out, weakening democratic accountability and potentially fuelling distrust in government.
born not to be happy, and so there is nothing you can do about it.
“But those who appreciate, who are happy, you can see how elated they are. That tells you that the day you go to the satellite town, what will happen, because they have never seen it before. It is unbelievable.”
He noted that the contractor, CGC, has confidence in the government that it would be paid, which informed why it agreed to execute the contract without mobilisation before the contract was formally approved by the Federal Executive Council last month.
Wike assured Tinubu that by his third anniversary in office next year, virtually all the contracts he awarded as the chairman of the Federal Executive Council would have been finished and no contractor owed for executed job. Meanwhile, Peter Obi has berated the FCTA for spending N39 billion in the renovation of the ICC. Obi was described the renovation of the conference as a wasteful venture, urged the federal government to always invest in ventures like education that would be profitable to the youths in the future.
He said this on a day he donated ten laptops to the Federal Government Girls’ Secondary school in Chibok, Borno State
The former Anambra State Governor equally donated N2 million for the sinking of a borehole in the secondary school where school girls were kidnapped in 2014 by the Boko Haram,
Continued on page 53
Tinubu Felicitates Ex-Bauchi Gov, Adamu Muazu, at 70
Describes him as an accomplished public servant, astute politician
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has rejoiced with former governor of Bauchi State and ex- chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Adamu Mu’azu, on his 70th birthday.
Tinubu, in a release on Wednesday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described Mu’azu as an accomplished public servant and frontline politician, who had remained relevant for his strength of character and dignified comportment.
Tinubu said, in the state, “We were governors at the same time between 1999 and 2007, a trying period for our new beginning. As Governor of Bauchi State, your
tenure was known for implementing various developmental projects and initiatives that made a remarkable difference in the lives of Bauchi citizens through substantial investments in education, health, and infrastructural development.
“When you were the National Chairman of the PDP between 2014 and 2015, though your party lost the 2015 presidential election to our party, the All Progressives Congress, you placed democratic values and the strengthening of political institutions in the country above party interests, conceding victory in the elections. On the occasion of this landmark birthday, I wish you many years laden with peace, good health, and continued dedication to the common good.”
T I nubu To W I ke: We W I ll Welcome You To AP c An YTI me You Are r e ADY
June 12: Tinubu, A Resilient Driver of Nigeria’s Democratic Movement
as Nigeria marks Democracy Day, sam onuigbo examines President Bola Tinubu’s political trajectory, from activist to senator, governor, and ultimately president—offering a lens into the nation’s democratic evolution and ongoing challenges
As Nigeria marks another Democracy Day on June 12, it is only fitting to reflect on the men and women whose sacrifices have kept the flame of our republic burning.
Among these patriots who are still alive today, one name stands out, President Bola Tinubu. His struggles embody the axiom that “democracy is not just a system of government, but a way of life built on courage, sacrifice, and an unyielding belief in the people’s will.” The story of Nigeria’s democratic resilience cannot be told without acknowledging this visionary who has shaped our political landscape across three tumultuous decades.
A Legacy Forged in the Fires of Struggle
The battle for Nigeria’s democratic soul in the 1990s was a defining period that separated the patriots from the opportunists. When military dictatorship sought to extinguish the flames of freedom, Tinubu positioned himself not as a spectator but as a strategic commander of the resistance. His NADECO years were marked by extraordinary courage - organising underground networks, funding dissent movements, and constantly outmanoeuvring the junta’s oppressive machinery. This was no armchair activism; it was a high stakes struggle where the price of conviction could be one’s liberty or even life. Like the great democratic champions throughout history, Tinubu understood that freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor - it must be demanded by the oppressed. His fellow activists like Fred Rewane, Omoshola, Kabiru Kaltho, Kudirat Abiola, etcetera, who paid with their lives and his own financial and material sacrifices during this period laid the foundation for the democracy we celebrate today.
When Nigeria finally transitioned to civilian rule in 1999, Tinubu exercised admirable leadership as the Governor of Lagos State and his bold and courageous actions became a masterclass in transformational governance.
He didn’t just manage the affairs of state - he reimagined them. Facing a near bankrupt treasury and crumbling infrastructure, he implemented bold reforms that turned Lagos into Africa’s fifth largest economy. The creation of institutions like LIRS and LASTMA weren’t just bureaucratic exercises; they were revolutionary steps in building a modern metropolis. His tax reforms, though initially unpopular, demon-
strated the political courage that has become his trademark - the willingness to make difficult decisions for long-term gain.
The results speak for themselves: Lagos’ internally generated revenue grew from a paltry N600 million monthly in 1999 to over N51 billion today, funding critical infrastructure without reliance on federal handouts. This Lagos miracle stands as irrefutable evidence of what visionary leadership can achieve.
Beyond his gubernatorial achievements,
Tinubu’s most enduring legacy may be his role as Nigeria’s foremost political institutionbuilder. While others hoard power, he multiplies it through strategic mentorship and leadership development. The “Tinubu School of Governance” has produced an impressive roster of leaders, including two presidents, two vice presidents, fourteen governors, and hundreds of legislators. This is not mere godfatherism - it is a deliberate, systematic cultivation of leadership pipelines that has strengthened our democracy. His approach reflects a strong understanding that nations thrive when leaders invest in successors rather than cling to power. The democratic stability Nigeria has enjoyed since 1999 owes much to this statesman who prioritised system building over self aggrandizement.
Today, as President, Tinubu faces perhaps his greatest challenge yet - transforming Nigeria’s economic foundations. The fuel subsidy removal, though politically hazardous, exemplifies his characteristic resolve to place long-term national interest above short-term popularity. The early results, while painful for many, show promising signs: nearly N2 trillion saved in eight months, the activation of Dangote Refinery that will end $10 billion in annual fuel imports, and states receiving 300% increased allocations for local development projects.
These reforms echo the painful but necessary adjustments made by nations like Singapore under Lee Kuan Yew - tough decisions that ultimately propelled them to first world status. As the saying goes, there are no gains without pain, and Tinubu’s economic vision recognises that Nigeria must endure short-term discomfort for lasting prosperity.
-Onuigbo, a former member of the House of Representatives, writes from Abuja.
NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com
Uba Sani: Upholding The Ideals of June 12
Henry Ugbolue writes that the active role played by senator Uba sani in the struggle to validate the mandate given to Chief MKO abiola by Nigerians during the June 12, 1993 presidential election shaped him for the government of inclusivity, equity, justice, and economic liberation he is running as Kaduna state governor
The June 12, 1993 presidential election remains one of the most poignant chapters in Nigeria’s democratic history. It was not merely an election — it was a referendum on justice, unity, and the people’s right to determine their future. Nigerians, across ethnic and religious divides, defied cynicism and cast their votes overwhelmingly for Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (M.K.O.) Abiola of the Social Democratic Party (SDP). Abiola’s campaign, “Hope ’93,” was a national movement for equity, prosperity, and dignity — a moment where the Nigerian spirit found its voice.
Yet, that collective voice was silenced when the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida annulled the election. This act of authoritarian suppression ignited a storm of resistance across the nation, birthing a generation of democracy advocates who risked everything to defend the people’s mandate. Among those brave patriots was a young Uba Sani from Kaduna — a name now indelibly etched into both the story of Nigeria’s democratic evolution and its current renaissance in purposeful governance.
Sani’s role in the June 12 pro-democracy movement is both profound and sometimes underappreciated. As a passionate activist aligned with the Campaign for Democracy (CD) and the Joint Action Committee of Nigeria (JACON), he was instrumental in challenging the perception that the struggle to reclaim Abiola’s mandate was a sectional affair. Operating from northern Nigeria — a region often seen as monolithic in its political leanings — Sani defied stereotypes and built bridges between northern activists and their southern counterparts.
His activism was more than symbolic. It involved real risks — arrests, harassment, detention — all for daring to demand that Nigeria honour its commitment to democracy. Alongside allies such as Shehu Sani (who was imprisoned for his activism), and northern leaders like the late Mallam Balarabe Musa and Col. Dangiwa Umar, Sani carried the torch of June 12 with clarity, conviction, and courage. June 12 shaped Sani. It was a politi-
cal and moral crucible in which he learned to view governance not as a tool for dominance, but as a platform for service. Today, as Governor of Kaduna State, his administration embodies the principles for which Abiola stood: inclusivity, equity, justice, and economic liberation.
When Senator Sani assumed office as Governor of Kaduna State on May 29, 2023, the weight of history seemed to converge on him. The state was grappling with multiple afflictions — sectarian tensions, entrenched
poverty, infrastructural decay, insecurity, and mass exclusion from financial services. In just two years, Governor Sani has spearheaded what many now describe as a “Kaduna Renaissance.” This renaissance is not defined by headlines, slogans, or political grandstanding. Rather, it is a deeply strategic, people-centered transformation that draws from his activist roots and his unflinching commitment to democratic ideals.
One of the most revolutionary aspects of Governor Sani’s leadership is his refusal to politicise governance. This is a man who believes governance is sacred — a trust bestowed not just by voters, but by the weight of history. As he has repeatedly explained, “From Day One, I made it clear that we must relegate politics and focus on governance.” This rare ethos has yielded remarkable results: peace across political divides, mass defections from the opposition based not on coercion, but confidence in leadership, and a unified political landscape once deeply fragmented.
Shaped by several years of civil rights activism, especially the June 12 struggle, Sani views security as not just merely about arms and patrols. He insists that security is about addressing root causes: poverty, illiteracy, and alienation. In his words, “We are reversing the ugly trend of hopelessness and lack of economic prosperity.”
-Ugbolue, a media professional, writes from Lagos.
NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com
Tinubu
Face-to-Face with Embassy’s Syndicated Cesspool of Corruption
The Nigerian embassy in Washington D. C. is plagued with organized corruption that portends great danger to the exemplary reforms instituted by the Interior Ministry in the processing of passport applications. Dr. Sebastin Ayeni writes on his first-hand account of the escapades of the officials’ intent on derailing the reform
Apassport is recognized globally as a travel document given to citizens by the authority of a country’s government to facilitate their movement. Obtaining this vital document is the first step an individual takes besides visa considerations before embarking on international travel. Countries around the world have their distinct requirements to fulfil before this important document is issued. Nigerians in the diaspora have faced enormous man-made challenges in their quest to renew or apply for passports. Lately, the Nigerian government has strived to reduce the hiccups citizens face to either apply for fresh or renew their passports by introducing some reforms to smoothen the hitherto chaotic and corrupt-ridden process. Specifically, the advent of the Minister of the Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, reportedly led to the clearing of an unprecedented backlog of over 200,000 passport applications using the reforms to drive the process. Online applications which was kick-started years ago became firmer with payment for services outsourced to Innovate (A United States-based financial services company).
However, before the gains of the reforms engineered by this technology-savvy minister could be fully consummated by citizens, especially those in the diaspora, well-organized syndicates at the Nigerian embassies abroad have set out to torpedo what could have really become the “golden era” in this aspect of government service delivery in the country. Rather than this account being labelled as generalizations by cynics, before I set out to document my experience with the lethargic and brazen corruption at the Nigerian Embassy in Washington D.C. recently, I have read reports of the shoddy and corrupt practices at the Atlanta Consulate and five years ago, I witnessed first-hand the unsavoury scenes and chaos at the New York Consulate too.
Again, another instance of this lethargic affliction of these Nigerian consulates in the United States, is the simple courtesy of answering the official telephone numbers. Sometime ago, I learned reliably that some consulate staff were due to visit either Columbus Ohio or Chicago Illinois to issue passports to needy applicants as they seldom do. Delighted that I could drive to these cities within a few hours of where I live, I pulled their phone numbers from the consulate webpages to find out the exact schedule of the visit, but to my amazement, no one answered! For two days, I dialed the embassy in Washington and the consulates in New York and Atlanta, none answered or returned my calls from the messages I left on their answering machines. Over here in the U. S., if you have any complaints with any government department, the telephone is the best outreach. Be they IRS, utilities company, BMV, or the issue is with either a 500-fortune firm or a one-man LLC handling your home’s plumbing or electrical issues, the telephone is your first resort, and the phone is promptly answered and the issues sorted out with dispatch. But not the embassy or its sister-consulates! Honestly, I can’t hazard any guess why these officials won’t embrace this efficient communication strategy other than their nebulous corrupt motives! You will find out why they want to see you in person in this piece!
I am compelled to narrate my harsh experience with this embassy staff because Nigerians are the loudest (justifiably so) at hauling criticisms for the government’s inefficiency and lukewarm attitude to service delivery! If the government has taken steps to reshape a dysfunctional system, why would the agents of the same government truncate these efforts on the altar of self-aggrandizement? It has become imperative that these corrupt agents of darkness must be stopped for Nigerians to enjoy a new lease of life in this aspect of service delivery. They must be stopped from clogging the wheel of progress engineered towards efficient service delivery in this sector.
When I needed to renew my Nigerian passport, I went in search of requirements on the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) website. I noticed that to apply online for renewal you would need the National Identification Number (NIN) which I didn’t have. I drove my family to a center two and a half hours from where we live, paid the prescribed fees and had the numbers emailed to us in a week (quite fast)! Being the only one whose Nigerian passport has expired in my family; I proceeded to the NIS webpage to apply for the renewal. It was very smooth-sailing at this point, paid the fee of $240 for the 64-page with a 10-year validity booklet and picked an appointment date
at the Washington D.C. outpost for my biometrics.
On the day of my appointment, I booked an early flight to D.C. to have the process completed having read reports that the reforms had necessitated the pick-up of the passport booklet the same day. I got my first shock when the Uber driver I engaged with from the airport took me to the street where the embassy was supposedly located. I looked up, I could see Pakistan Embassy boldly printed on the entry gate with the country’s flag and that of the host nation dangling in the air, I glanced at the other side, and I also saw the same for the Republic of Malaysia. The Uber made a U-turn, and I saw that of Brunei boldly written, and I asked: “where is Nigeria’s embassy?” At this point, the man asked me to alight from the car because time was running out, I thanked him and dropped off. Fortuitously, as I walked backwards, I saw a man seated in a parked car (presumably a Nigerian) who redirected me to the embassy. When I arrived, I saw a faded signpost placed on the wall of the fence (see picture)! How could a first-time visitor locate this? Unlike other nations that hoisted their flags conspicuously, Nigeria’s was shadowed by the branches of a tree in the premises and the pole probably meant for the host nation’s flag was standing empty! As I entered the premises and walked into the hall where passport/visa applicants were being received and attended to, the stark inefficiency and corruption welcomed me. I registered my name, dropped off my old passport with my vetted application inserted, was given a serial number, and then asked to go and pay “$50 administrative fee” to an official seated at the base of the hall! I protested about this new charge and told them that I had already paid all the required fees of $240 when I submitted my application online. They stood their ground that unless I paid that charge, I won’t be attended to. Grudgingly, I acquiesced having sensed the “fire” in their eyes. As soon
as I paid, the lady cashier asked me if I wanted to collect my passport that day. I answered in the affirmative, she then directed me to another man who told me same day collection would attract another $200 charge! My countenance changed instantly, and I demanded to know why they would do this to me; it was then the man showed me a list of those who had paid, otherwise, I could just go for my biometrics and the passport would be mailed to me when ready!
When all pleas to include me fell on deaf ears, I requested to see his boss because he kept telling me that if a dime was removed, the boss would take it on him. He turned down my request to see his boss, and I was not surprised because as we negotiated all through the time, I could see superior officials come and go, which made it clear that the whole fealty arrangement was organized from the top. At this point, the time was approaching noon, and I had a flight back to my base at 4pm from Washington D.C. after which I would drive for another two and a half hours to get home. Perhaps, after I narrated what I had gone through to be there and the urgency of the need of the passport, the man reluctantly asked me to pay $150, and promised to make up the balance for me!! Not allowed to see whatever other official that sent them there, I obliged him. Shortly afterwards, I was led to another office where my biometrics were taken and was asked to wait in the hall for my passport.
As I waited in the hall, so many things went through my mind. Why are Nigerians like this? Is this much talked about corruption in DNA? Can’t we make a system work efficiently for once without gratification? I recalled when I called this same office brimming with officials and the two other consulates in New York and Atlanta, and no one answered! If they could be extorting Bonafide citizens, what would they do to aliens who come here seeking visas to visit Nigeria? For a fact, I
saw non-Nigerians on the premises that day. The temperature in the waiting hall was harsh. The two giant standing fans stationed there to cool the rising summer temperatures in D.C. were practically blowing your face and obstructing ladies’ dresses! Frankly, since my sojourn in the U.S. I haven’t seen such fans indoors in any office except for outdoor events when temperatures surge skywards in the summer. The norm in offices here (both corporate and public) is that in the winter, you’re welcomed to the warmth of the office space and during the summer you cool off the harsh outside temperatures once you step inside an office space. Can’t this embassy embrace the culture of the host nation? My final submission is that the Interior Minister’s reform must not succumb to the corrupt designs of these officials determined to continuously malign and reduce Nigeria. The online application and processing must be fully embraced. That has become a new way of doing business globally. Examples abound of other countries deploying the efficient online application and processing for passports and visas. My friend got his Canadian visa delivered to his doorpost within a few weeks of his application last month. My son’s American passport was delivered to our mailbox within weeks of the application. So, with the innovative NIN added to the passport application process, the processing authorities anywhere in the globe should be able to verify and process all applications expeditiously. All the consulates and departments that are issuing passports must be made to embrace this online method. If there is no in-person visit to the embassies or government departments, the demand for gratification will be minimized if not eliminated. Consulate staff or workers generally, should be content with their pay and desist from shaming Nigeria and Nigerians any further.
•Dr. Ayeni, a researcher with an American university, contributed this article from the United States.
Faces at the inauguration of the N16 Shehu Shagari Way from Ring Road 1 Nnamdi Azikiwe Way to N20 Wole Soyinka Way, Gishiri and other roads in Katampe District, Abuja by President Bola
Ahmed Tinubu…yesterday
L-R: Minister of State FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Benjamin Kalu, at the commissioning of the N16 Shehu Shagari Way from Ring Road 1 Nnamdi Azikwe Way to N20 Wole Soyinka Way, Gishiri and other Roads in Katampe District, Abuja on Wednesday
R-L: APC National Vice Chairman (South South), Victor Giadom, Senators Mao Ohuabunwa, Philip Aduda, George Sekibo and Magnus Abe
Cross section of Security Chiefs
L-R: PDP National Vice Chairman (South South), Chief Dan Orbih, Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency, Chukwuemeka Woke, Senator Sandy Onoh and Publisher of This Nigeria newspapers, Eric Osagie
L-R: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Benjamin Kalu
R-L: MD of CGC, Zhong Xiang, FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike and Minister of State FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud
L-R: Former Governors of Enugu, Ekiti, Benue and Abia States, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Ayodele Fayose, Samuel Ortom and Okezie Ikpeazu
Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro, Senator David Jimkuta, Senator Allwell Onyeso and others
How Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong is Redefining Impact for Cross River South in 24 Months
In just two years, first-time Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong has set a new standard for representation in Cross River South. Young, visionary, and results-driven, he has turned cautious optimism into tangible progress — from lighting up communities with over 6,800 streetlights to building and rehabilitating critical roads, delivering healthcare to thousands, and empowering students with scholarships and ICT labs. Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that with a quiet, grassroots-driven approach, Ekpenyong is redefining what it means to serve — not with fanfare, but with impact felt in everyday lives across the district
Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong
Senator Asuquo presenting a cheque to a beneficiary of Domestic Education Support initaative
When Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong took office in June 2023, there was cautious optimism. Young, articulate, and equipped with a strong financial background, many saw potential — but even more waited to see whether he could translate promise into performance.
Less than two years later, the verdict is clear. Across Cross River South, communities are not just talking about change — they are living it.
From the urban centre of Calabar to outlying rural districts, Ekpenyong’s 24 months in office have unfolded like a blueprint of intentional, focused development. In that time, he has carved out a model of leadership that goes beyond speeches and appearances. It is marked instead by tangible progress — concrete, visible, and felt across critical aspects of daily life.
Lighting the Way: Infrastructure as Inclusion
Nowhere is this more evident than in the physical transformation of the constituency.
Over 6,800 streetlights have been installed across communities, turning once-dark streets into safe, functional spaces. For residents who had become accustomed to navigating pitch-black roads at night — especially traders and schoolchildren — the impact has been immediate. These streetlights aren’t just infrastructure, they’re a statement of visibility and inclusion.
His tenure has been paved — literally and figuratively — by a commitment to road infrastructure. With 11 new roads built and eight others reconstructed, movement across the district has become easier and faster, linking once-isolated
communities to major hubs. Roads like Ikot
Nkebre Layout, Nyanghasang with a spur to Edim Top Market, Adiabo Road off Tinapa, and King Duke Street off Chamley now help traders reach markets quicker, students get to school more safely, and small businesses thrive in places that were once cut off during the rainy season.
For those those communities, each road isn’t just infrastructure — it’s a story of access restored and opportunity unlocked.
Health and Hope: Investing in People
But the Senator’s approach hasn’t stopped at infrastructure. He has paired his focus on development with deliberate investments in people. More than 4,400 residents have benefitted from medical outreaches offering everything from check-ups to surgeries and maternal health support. These initiatives have reached deep into communities where access to healthcare was either too expensive or too far away to be reliable.
Impact in Education
In education, the impact is equally compelling. His Domestic Education Support Initiative has directly assisted 1,700 students with tuition and learning materials, easing the burden on families. Thirty-one students are studying overseas on scholarship — many of them the first in their families to fly out of the country. Two schools have been fully equipped with ICT labs, laying the groundwork for digital learning in a region not traditionally associated with tech innovation. These are not
just education projects — they are lifelines, assisting families out of poverty.
Livelihoods and Legislation: Building a Future that Works
For many households, employment remains the clearest pathway to security.
Senator Ekpenyong’s tenure has facilitated 28 federal public service jobs for constituents and 12 appointments into strategic roles in the National Assembly. At a glance, the figures may seem modest, but each placement ripples outward — supporting parents, siblings, and even entire communities.
In Abuja, Ekpenyong’s legislative impact is on the rise. He has moved six motions on the Senate floor and successfully sponsored the South-South Development Commission Bill, now signed into law. His 17 appearances at international forums and conferences have broadened the spotlight on Cross River South. While critics often label such engagements as mere photo ops, in his case, they have opened doors to meaningful partnerships and future investments. From tourism and trade to education and health, Ekpenyong is positioning the district as a regional player and a globally relevant force.
Free Bus Initiative
Recognising that reliable transportation is often a daily challenge in the region, his free bus initiative — spanning 19 routes — has further eased the burden, making commuting less stressful and more affordable for thousands. Together, these efforts strengthen both
livelihoods and daily life.
The Quiet Revolution: Grassroots Governance, Redefined
What sets his 24-month tenure apart is the deliberate absence of fanfare. There is no chest-thumping, no flashy media blitz — just steady, grounded, and quietly transformative action. His projects extend beyond high-profile areas, thoughtfully reaching communities long overlooked in development conversations. Places that once saw their representatives only during election season now witness solar boreholes installed, classrooms restored, and employment letters delivered right to their doorsteps. This unique, grassroots approach to leadership has not gone unnoticed. Senator Ekpenyong was recently honoured with the ThisDay Global Leaders Award, a nod to his growing reputation as a serious, strategic advocate for community-driven progress. Yet, ask around Cross River South, and you’ll find that true recognition is not in plaques or media headlines — it’s in the heartfelt testimonials of those whose lives have been changed in tangible, meaningful ways.
The Road Ahead: More Than a Mandate
As the Senator approaches the halfway mark of his first term, his trajectory points to a vision far greater than a routine stint in power. It is the quiet unfolding of a different political ethos — one defined by genuine service, not personal ambition. Whether it’s a student boarding a free bus, a mother accessing treatment at a free medical outreach, or a farmer transporting produce along a freshly tarred road, the story is the same: Cross River South is progressing — and the people know who to thank.
Students utilising the NITDA Digital Economy Centre in Biase Secondary School Ehom in Biase LGA
Idang road project
Healthcare services beneficiary
Folu Storms: A Trailblazing Creative Entrepreneur
Folu Storms is a visionary, creative entrepreneur, actor, broadcaster, and media personality who has left an indelible mark on the African entertainment industry. With a decade-long track record of collaborating with top brands and producing award-winning content, she has established herself as a force of innovation and creativity. Her passion for promoting Global African culture and empowering women through her work has earned her widespread recognition. In this exclusive interview with MARY NNAH, Storms shares her entrepreneurial journey, creative process, and commitment to using her platform for social impact
How did your journey as a creative entrepreneur begin, and what inspired you to pursue a career in the entertainment industry?
It began with a desire to help change the narrative around Africa and Africans –how we see ourselves and how the world sees us. I started by pitching a travel documentary idea. Interestingly, my first break didn't come from that directly; while pitching the idea at a radio station, they offered me an on-air job instead because they liked my presentation style. That was my entry into the industry. I kept pursuing the travel show concept, alongside other opportunities like the MTV VJ search, and eventually, Ndani TV commissioned the show. It was a bit of a winding path, driven by that initial inspiration.
You are known for your versatility, having worked as an actor, broadcaster, host, and media personality. How do you manage to excel in so many different roles?
Honestly, it's a constant juggling act, and I won't pretend it's always easy or that some things don't occasionally get less attention than I'd like. But I've learned that, like most things in life, it's about finding a balance. The different roles – acting, hosting, broadcasting – feel interconnected to me. They all serve a larger purpose related to communication and influencing narratives, which is what truly drives me and brings satisfaction. The practical side involves regularly checking in with myself and adjusting my priorities based on what needs the most focus at any given time. It’s an ongoing process.
What drives your passion for promoting Global African culture, and how do you incorporate this into your work?
It truly stems from a deep understanding and appreciation of my own identity as an African woman. I've learned how much our sense of self, and how others perceive us, shapes our journey and potential in the world. This realization has been the bedrock of my entire media career. It’s not just an abstract concept; I try to embody it in tangible ways – how I wear my hair, the clothes I choose, even the names I embrace. So, incorporating it into my work feels very natural. When hosting, I often consciously wear African designers. When producing, I'm drawn to projects that explore the connections between identity, value, and perception within the Black experience. It's less about 'promoting' and more about operating from that authentic cultural space as my default.
As a passionate advocate for women’s causes, can you share with us your experiences advocating for gender equity and women's economic empowerment?
It’s been a really insightful journey. I didn't always focus on gender equity explicitly when I was younger, but as I’ve grown, I've seen firsthand how critical things like agency, financial independence, and simply being heard are for women – and how often they face hurdles, both obvious and subtle. Working in media, I've increasingly recognized the responsibility and opportunity we have to influence change through the stories we tell. Even small shifts in narrative can have a ripple effect. One experience that stands out is being in meetings where demonstrating the actual data on gender disparities is necessary to move past the assumption that everything is already fair. Seeing that moment of realization – that 'lightbulb' – in others, particularly men acknowledging their privilege, is quite impactful.
How can the creative sector be more intentional about creating stories that reduce negative gender norms and stereotypes?
The change begins at the very foundation: the script. From the outset, writers must consciously challenge traditional roles. While there's no inherent issue with depicting a woman in the kitchen, the overrepresentation of this image, while top chefs globally are often men, reveals
an unconscious bias. Why not flip the script?
Let's see more narratives where men are the primary caregivers and women lead in diverse professional fields. Crucially, stories must grant women genuine agency. A focus on crafting narratives where women are active participants in their own lives, driving the plot and making their own choices is key. By consciously considering the roles and actions of female characters from the initial writing stage, the creative sector can foster a more equitable and representative storytelling landscape, ultimately contributing to a society that embraces diverse possibilities for all genders.
In your opinion, why is it important for women to be economically empowered?
In my opinion, the economic empowerment of women isn't just a matter of individual gain; it's a fundamental driver of societal progress. As you rightly pointed out, empowering women has a ripple effect that benefits everyone. When women have economic opportunities, their earning potential increases, directly boosting the financial health of their families and communities. Beyond the economic benefits, women are often the linchpins of their communities, actively involved in building and sustaining social structures. Their economic empowerment strengthens these roles, leading to improved overall quality of life for everyone. It’s a clear pathway to a more prosperous and equitable society where the talents and contributions of all its members are fully realized. To put it simply, investing in women's economic empowerment is investing in a better future for all.
You are certainly a champion for Women’s Health and have done quite a number of advocacy around SRHR in particular this year. Can you share why SRHR awareness is so important and how this is interconnected with WEE? It is impossible to discuss women's economic empowerment without placing a strong emphasis on their health, particularly their sexual and reproductive health rights. A woman's ability to participate fully in
the economy is intrinsically linked to her well-being. If her health isn't prioritized, if her wellness and sexual health are neglected, she lacks the fundamental stability needed to thrive. Considering the biological realities, sexual and reproductive health is paramount to a woman's overall health. The statistics surrounding maternal and neonatal health, particularly in places like Nigeria, paint a concerning picture, underscoring the urgency of this issue. Therefore, empowering women economically must go hand-in-hand with empowering healthcare workers, especially those in primary care, who support women during vulnerable stages. Women need autonomy, control, knowledge, and agency over their bodies and their health decisions. Without this foundation of good health, the strength and resilience needed to navigate the demands of the economic world are severely compromised. Prioritizing women's health is not just a matter of well-being; it's a prerequisite for true and lasting economic empowerment.
What role would you say the media plays in advancing women’s economic empowerment and gender justice?
The media wields immense influence in shaping public discourse and, consequently, the advancement of women's economic empowerment and gender justice. Even a single headline can significantly impact public perception, often before anyone reads the full story. The way media outlets position an issue – its prominence, the language used, the framing – directly dictates whether the public deems it important or not. Media is, without a doubt, critical in determining whether the general public accepts a cause as fundamental and worthy of attention. Its power to shape narratives makes it a crucial lever in fostering understanding and driving societal change towards gender equality.
How do you believe your platform and influence can be used to create
positive change and promote social justice?
My platform, like any platform, is simply a mouthpiece – a way to draw attention to what truly matters. Through my work and how I engage with the world, I've been fortunate to gain a following in various spaces. It's crucial to remember that we all hold influence within our own circles, and it's our responsibility to use that influence for good whenever possible. For me, this means lending my platform to organizations doing vital work, often behind the scenes, to champion women's health and economic empowerment. Groups like– Hacey Health, WRTHY, Smile with me, Gender Mobile, Mama Moni – are on the ground making a real difference. They need support and, crucially, awareness. If I can use my voice to shine a light on their efforts and amplify their message, I am more than happy to do so. For me it is about using whatever influence one has to contribute to a more just and equitable society.
Who are some of the women who have inspired you throughout your career, and what qualities do you admire about them?
When I think about the women who truly inspire me, my thoughts immediately turn to the incredible individuals in my everyday life. My Mumsie, for one, embodies so many qualities I admire. As a doctor, her dedication and work ethic are undeniable, but what truly stands out is her unwavering commitment to her community. She consistently gives her skills and time freely to those in need, always striving to make the world around her a better place. I've witnessed her firsthand stopping to offer help in emergencies – that's the kind of woman who inspires me. Similarly, my sister and my cousins are constant sources of inspiration. They are incredibly hardworking, not just to build comfortable lives for themselves, but also to ensure the well-being of their families and loved ones. For me, inspiration often begins at home, with the people closest to you. While there are certainly many admirable figures in the public eye, the women in my life are the everyday heroes who truly shape my perspective and drive.
Looking back on your accomplishments, what legacy do you hope to leave behind, and how do you want to be remembered? Looking back at my accomplishments, the legacy I hope to leave behind is simple: I want to have done my part in making the journey of life a little more comfortable for others. We're all just passengers on this shared ship, and I believe it's our collective responsibility to ensure a positive experience for everyone. My aim is to leave the world a bit better than I found it. This means actively working to create systems that will benefit not only my loved ones but also future generations in the spaces I occupy. Whether it's fostering equitable and fair conditions, advocating for dignified labor, or simply promoting well-being, I strive to leave a positive footprint wherever I go. When my time comes, I hope to be remembered as someone who was solid, someone who truly did her part. That, to me, is the most meaningful legacy one can hope to achieve – to leave the world a little brighter than when we arrived.
What's one thing people might be surprised to learn about you? One thing people might be surprised to learn about me is that I often navigate life while feeling quite afraid. I worry about making mistakes, about whether I'm doing things the right way. Truthfully, I probably live with a fair amount of underlying anxiety more often than people might imagine. However, what I've learned to cultivate is courage. I continually push myself to strive and try, even when things feel daunting or unrealistic. It is that very act of pushing through fear that, when I look back, often leads to moments of genuine accomplishment. I know I often come across as assured and confident, and in many ways, I am. I also have come to believe that a little bit of fear can actually be a good sign, suggesting you're stepping outside your comfort zone and heading in the right direction. It's about learning to embrace that fear and finding the courage to move forward anyway.
Folu Storm
Nigerians Focus More on .ng Domain Name to Boost
Online Traffic, Drive Digital Transformation
Emma Okonji
The statistics on .ng domain name registration and renewal for the month of May 2025, which was released by the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA), the body responsible for managing Nigeria’s country code Top Level Domain (ccTLD), has showed how Nigerians focused more on the country’s .ng domain name to boost online traffic and drive digital transformation across all sectors of the economy.
The .ng domain analysis, which is a breakdown of .ng registration, reveals more than just numbers, as it paints a compelling picture of Nigeria’s digital transformation and the immense opportunities that lie ahead for the nation’s online economy.
At the heart of .ng registrations is the.com.ng extension that showed an impressive registration, which is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of Nigerians to populate Nigeria’s .ng domain name.
The ccTLD .ng domain name is Nigeria’s identity in cyberspace, which has the .ng at the suffix of every official email address that originates from Nigeria. In the United Kingdom, all official email addresses end with .co.uk. In United States of America, they end with .com, while in South Africa, the official email addresses end with .co.za.
According to the statistics released by NiRA, the .ng direct registration, designed for individuals and diverse organisations, increased to 54,518 in the month of May, while .org. ng, designed for government organisations, reached 12,101
registrations, highlighting how the country’s non-profit and civil society organisations are leveraging the internet for social good.
The statistics also showed that the .net.ng registrations reached 4,958, which underscores the foundational role of local internet service and telecom providers in adopting .ng domain name.
The essential domains reserved for academic institutions such as .sch. ng and .edu.ng, reached 4,327 and 1,832 registrations respectively, while government bodies, which operate .gov.ng and .mil.ng, increased their .ng domain name registrations to 2,551 and 283 respectively, which represent critical strides in formalising and securing Nigeria’s official and educational online presence, directly aligning with national digital policies and safeguarding critical assets.
The statistics also showed that the .name.ng, which is a personal identity domain name, increased to 10,504 registrations, showing how individuals are embracing personalised digital identities that are necessary for personal branding and professional networking.
Other sectors such as the i.ng, reached 2,558 registrations in May, while .mobi.ng registration reached 3,582 in the same month of May, which further illustrate the diverse adoption of the .ng ccTLD across various specific interest groups in Nigeria.
Analysing the .ng Domain Name statistics for the month of May, the President of NiRA, Mr. Adesola Akinsanya, said: “Each of these 227,599 .ng domain registrations is not just a digital address, but a tangible investment in Nigeria’s
progress. These numbers are propelling our nation towards an unprecedented level of digital transformation, yielding tangible benefits such as fuelling economic diversification, cultivating local content and services, fortifying digital sovereignty, building unwavering trust and credibility, and generating vital foreign exchange savings.”
According to him, the significant increase in the volume .ng domain name, signifies how Nigerians are increasingly recognising and asserting their national identity online. “Beyond mere commerce, our people are forging personal brands, nurturing vibrant community initiatives, and establishing non-commercial entities that reflect the rich tapestry of our nation. This truly underscores
the maturation of our digital ecosystem,” Akinsanya said. Akinsanya said NiRA would commence the implementation of the WHOIS Privacy Redaction Service on June 16, 2025, describing it as an important development that will enhances the privacy, security, and trust within the .ng registry. “Under this new measure, personal data such as names, phone numbers, and email addresses of registrants will be redacted from public view in the WHOIS database, replaced with Data Redacted. This aligns with global best practices in data protection and reinforces NiRA’s commitment to safeguarding our users while maintaining critical functionality and compliance mechanisms for legitimate third-party access,” Akinsanya further said.
Research: QNET Products Can Cushion Effects of Electromagnetic Emissions on Humans
An academic researcher and former Vice Chancellor of Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, Prof. Abiodun Humphrey Adebayo has highlighted the values of QNET’s Amezcua wellness products, insisting that the products, which include BioDisc 3, BioLight 3, ChiPendant 4, and Amezcua E-GuardX, are capable of energising the human body system and preventing the adverse effect of electromagnetic radiations from mobile devices like mobile phones and routers on humans.
He also said the solutions could cushion the effect of electromagnetic
emissions from other devices that radiate emissions from the environment that are harmful to human health.
Adebayo, who is also a member of QNET Scientific Advisory Board, stated this during the Amezcua Science Dialogue, which held at the Covenant University and organised by QNET in collaboration with the university.
In his opening remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Covenant University, Prof. Timothy Anake, said the Amezcua wellness solutions had over the years, demonstrated commitment to solving local challenges.
He described Prof. Adebayo as
a beacon, whose research works have made significant impact in humanity.
Head, Compliance at QNET, Theodocia Nana Quartey, in her welcome address, said QNET has been in existence for 27 years, developing products that use science and technology to better the daily lives of people. She commended Prof. Adebayo for his research works on local solutions that address human challenges with scientific proofs.
Speaking on the theme: “Demystifying the Science Around QNET Products,” Adebayo, said research has shown that the science around Amezcua wellness products
is about exploring and harnessing natural environments in order to improve on our well-being.
According to him, based on research, the ChiPendant 4, has some frequencies already incorporated in it, that protects humans against the harmful effect of electromagnetic radiations.
“We are all surrounded with electromagnetic radiation from our smartphones, to masks, to the television sets, to tablets, iPads, and all of these things constitute quite a lot of issues for the human health. So, it’s high time we begin to protect ourselves against the effects of electromagnetic radiations. The QNET team has
been working on safeguarding and helping to improve the wellness of the people,” Adebayo said.
The BioDisc 3, according to him, also does amazing things, “It restructures liquids and fluids, but does not purify them. Through the restructuring, it breaks down liquid molecules into tiny molecules that can be easily absorbed by the body system, thus boosting the immunity system in humans and keeping humans in a more healthy state.”
“With the BioDisc 3, you have water better absorbed into your system and helps your body function maximally,” Adebayo further said, adding that with scientific studies, it has been proven
that by placing the BioDisc 3 in fridges, it can help to preserve vegetables and fruits much longer than expected.
“The BioLight 3 is a wonderful product, and I love it. It works together with the BioDisc and it contains three compartments, with different lights. The BioDisc enhances the impact of the light on any part of the body, to reduce strain and stress in the body system,” Adebayo said. He also explained that from a research experiment, using the BioDisc 3 in water containing cat fish, it was able to increase the growth of catfish by almost 100 per cent in 50 to 60 days.
Emma Okonji
Substituting Monopoly for Efficiency: Case Study of Nigerian Aviation Industry
Dipo Kehinde
This year marks a century since aviation took flight in Nigeria. From the first recorded aircraft landing in Kano in 1925 to today’s bustling network of domestic and international airports, the sector has evolved—though not without setbacks—from state-led control to growing private participation. As we reflect on 100 years of flight, one truth has become increasingly clear: the government can not carry this sector alone.
Speaking at the launch of 100 Years of Aviation in Nigeria, the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, reaffirmed the indispensable role of the private sector in ensuring the industry’s long-term sustainability. Nigeria, he noted, remains one of the few African countries with a significant number of privately operated airlines—an arrangement that has brought a measure of stability and resilience to airline operations, even in turbulent times.
On the subject of infrastructure, the minister cited the proposed remodelling of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport as another reason why Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) are no longer optional—they are essential. Echoing this, the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku has consistently called for deeper privatesector participation, not just for financing but for injecting technical and operational expertise.
The message is clear: if Nigeria hopes to sustain and modernise its aviation infrastructure, it must embrace models that reward innovation, ensure efficiency, and inspire investor confidence. In this regard, the story of Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2), operated by Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), is more than a model—it is a blueprint.
Conceived through a concession agreement
with the Federal Government, MMA2 has redefined what is possible when private-sector expertise is paired with public-sector ambition. However, recent commentary—particularly the article by Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, SAN, in the Nigerian Tribune of June 3, 2025— suggests that fully enforcing this concession, especially the ceding of the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) to Bi-Courtney, would create a dangerous monopoly.
While the article was articulate and rich in detail, the argument misrepresents both the intent and mechanics of the agreement.
Enforcing a duly signed concession is not about gifting market control to a single entity; it is about respecting contractual obligations, preserving investor trust, and institutionalizing the principles of PPPs that are already transforming the aviation sector.
A monopoly, by definition, implies exclusive, unchecked dominance over a market—often leading to poor service, high prices, and a lack of innovation. MMA2, however, operates within a strictly regulated environment. Core aviation functions such as airside security, runway management, and landing charges remain firmly under FAAN’s jurisdiction. The concession doesn’t eliminate competition; it elevates the playing field. It has set a performance standard that others now strive to meet.
Indeed, prior to MMA2, all Nigerian airports were operated by FAAN. Innovation was sluggish, and service levels remained static. The introduction of a private operator challenged that status quo. Far from stifling competition, MMA2 catalyzed it—demonstrating how infrastructure, service, and customer experience can all be dramatically improved under private management.
Some of MMA2’s pioneering achievements include:
• First Domestic Terminal with Automated E-Gates: Enhancing passenger flow and security.
• Deployment of Boarding Bridges: Previously absent in domestic travel.
• Implementation of Common User Passenger Processing Systems (CUPPS): Now emulated by public terminals.
• Construction of Nigeria’s First Multistorey Car Park: A model for space efficiency and user convenience.
• Development of a Modern Cargo Facility: Strengthening logistics and revenue diversification.
• Consistent Aesthetic and Lounge Enhancements: Elevating the travel experience across all classes. One of its most transformative features is its mall-style layout—a retail, dining, and leisure space that rivals international standards. These are not monopolistic feats. They are competitive ones—clear evidence of what’s possible when private enterprise is incentivized to excel.
Globally, Nigeria is not alone in this shift.
The United Kingdom offers a clear example: Gatwick Airport, one of London’s busiest, is privately owned and operated, existing alongside Heathrow and Stansted without invoking fears of monopolies. Heathrow’s Terminal 5, developed by British Airways in partnership with the British Airport Authority, is another example of private-sector driven excellence. In India, the PPP model in aviation—led by groups like GMR at Delhi and Hyderabad airports—has revolutionized air travel, improved infrastructure, and created globally ranked terminals, without monopolistic fallout.
But perhaps the most telling cautionary tale— and one Nigeria cannot afford to repeat—is the exit of Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Nigeria. When Virgin Group partnered with Nigerian stakeholders to create what was then a promising national carrier, it entered the country with high hopes and global best practices. However, regulatory inconsistencies and persistent breaches of the partnership agreement eroded trust. Branson would later describe the experience as one of “betrayal and broken promises,” citing interference and an unwillingness by the Nigerian government to honour its commitments as key reasons Virgin pulled out. The fallout not only ended an ambitious project but also sent a chilling message to global investors: that contracts in Nigeria may not always be worth the paper they’re printed on.
That episode remains a painful reminder of what’s at stake when agreements are ignored and investor confidence is undermined. By contrast, enforcing the Bi-Courtney concession sends the opposite—and correct—signal: that Nigeria is ready to uphold the rule of law, reward good faith investment, and anchor future partnerships on trust and transparency.
As Nigeria enters its second century of aviation, the question is no longer whether the private sector should be involved. That debate is settled. The focus must now be on how to foster investor confidence, ensure consistent policy direction, and scale models that work.
Upholding the MMA2 concession agreement is not just a legal necessity—it is a strategic imperative. It signals that Nigeria is a country that respects contracts, welcomes innovation, and honours partnerships. Bi-Courtney’s story is not one of market control. It is one of market transformation—and the future of aviation in Nigeria depends on recognizing and replicating such success.
Ekeh: Combined Strength Needed for Successful Entrepreneurship in Nigeria
Stories by Emma Okonji
The path of entrepreneurship, particularly within the dynamic and often unpredictable terrain of Nigeria, is not for the faint-hearted, as it demands a unique blend of attributes to navigate the complexities and seize the latent opportunities.
This was the view of the Chairman of Zinox Group, Leo Stan Ekeh, during a recent tech mentoring
session in Lagos. According to Ekeh, it takes a combined strength of prominent national figures like Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Atiku, Abubakar, and Peter Obi, for any Nigerian entrepreneur to succeed in the country.
Ekeh’s analogy, while seemingly unconventional, resonates deeply when dissecting the multifaceted demands of building and sustaining a successful enterprise in this unique
environment.
He posited that the intricate tapestry of Nigerian entrepreneurship would require a leader to possess the strategic acumen, capacity, leadership, and courage of Tinubu, the bravery, fairness, determination, humanity, and meticulousness of Atiku, and the humility, spirituality, thriftiness, morality, and capacity of Obi.
“We know President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s political career to be indelibly
marked by extraordinary resilience and long-term strategy. As the only opposition governor who survived the 2003 PDP sweep under President Obasanjo, Tinubu demonstrated defiance and exceptional ability to withstand immense political pressure and navigate Obasanjo’s regime. This resilience, honed through years of political battles, is an indispensable trait for any Nigerian entrepreneur. The business landscape in Nigeria is often
Identigo Launches Verification Solutions for Homes, Businesses
Identigo has launched verification solutions that will enable families and organisations carry out background checks for security reasons, before engaging domestic and organisational staff. Speaking at the launch in Lagos recently, Executive Director, Identigo, Ms. Olabusayo Soetan, said the launch would help families and organisations across Nigeria to rebuild trust, strengthen security, and support better decision-making.
“Identigo was born out of a simple but urgent realisation: people and
organisations need to know who they’re dealing with, before they make critical decisions. Whether it’s hiring a staff member, forming a business partnership, or issuing a visa, those decisions carry serious risks when they’re made without verified information,” Soetan said.
According to her, Identigo offers a wide range of background verification services from NIN and BVN verification, to address confirmation, passport authentication, employment history, state of origin, guarantor checks, and more. National Coordinator &
Head of Training, Identigo, Mr. AbdulQowiyy Busari, said customers that want to key into the service offerings of Identigo, could download the app from the App Store or the Play Store to register.
“For every verification exercise, the employer can register directly or give access to the employee to register, while personal information is filled via a link. The personal information include: name, phone number, addresses, picture upload, that will aid background checks,” Busari said.
Head of Marketing and
Communications, Tantacom Group, Mr. John Fadejola, said as strategic partners to Identigo, both organisations remained grounded in a mutual commitment to building a more secure, transparent, and trustworthy business landscape in Africa.
“As Identigo leads the charge in redefining the background verification space, delivering seamless, tech-driven, and preventative security solutions, Tantacom has been entrusted to ensure the innovation reaches the right people, with the right message, at the right time.
As the strategic communications partner to Identigo,” Fadejola said.
Home Grown AI to Power First African Caribbean Franchise Exhibition
By Agnes Ekebuike
fraught with unforeseen challenges, such as economic fluctuations, regulatory shifts, infrastructural deficits, and intense competition.
An entrepreneur must possess the mental fortitude to weather these storms, learn from setbacks, and emerge stronger,” Ekeh said.
He described former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as a tenacious and persistent politician of modern Nigeria.
“Atiku’s bravery in challenging political structures, even taking the federal government to court during his tenure as Vice President, demonstrates the type of tenacity entrepreneurs must adopt when confronting unfair policies or
bureaucracy,” Ekeh said.
According to him, Peter Obi, a former Governor of Anambra State and a recent presidential contender, is revered for his prudent management style and humility, a stark contrast to the often-ostentatious nature of politics.
“Entrepreneurs, especially in their formative years, must learn the difference between thriftiness and stinginess. Obi’s approach teaches business leaders to prioritise essentials and minimise wastage. In a volatile economy like Nigeria’s, this is how businesses survive and grow,” Ekeh further said.
Tier 5 Technologies, a prominent West African enterprise IT and cloud services provider, has announced a partnership with MongoDB, the leading database for modern applications, to aid its expansion into the West African market, specifically in Nigeria.
Explaining the rationale for the exhibition, President of ACR Holdings, Funmi Bajulaiye, said: “Franchising has become a popular business model globally, with the African and Caribbean markets showing immense potential. We don’t just want to highlight these potential
Home grown artificial intelligence is set to play a significant role in unlocking latent franchising opportunities between African and Caribbean businesses as the first African Caribbean franchise exhibition holds in Lagos in July 2025. This was made known at a press conference held in Lagos to announce the upcoming exhibition organised by ACR Holdings in partnership with Arravo Technologies Limited.
but to also provide a platform for engagement, business partnerships, knowledge sharing between African and Caribbean businesses because of our shared heritage.”
According to Bajulaiye, the exhibition, which is billed to hold in Lagos, promises to be a hub for international brands, franchising investors, and policymakers.
Chairman of the exhibition and
CEO of Arravo Technologies, Dr Ayo Adegboye, said: “Africa lags the rest of the world in terms of developing its knowledge-based economy.”
According to him, to close the gap, Africa needs to imbibe incremental decision making, which will involve the development and deployment of homegrown technology.
The partnership, which focuses on helping organisations modernise their infrastructure to capitalise on the opportunities of AI, was revealed at a recent ‘Legacy Modernisation Day’ event in Lagos, co-hosted by the two companies.
The Tier 5 TechnologiesMongoDB partnership aims to harness Africa’s enormous potential, with the continent’s digital economy projected to reach $100 billion. MongoDB’s
mission is to empower innovators to create, transform, and disrupt industries with software and data, and MongoDB is the most widely available, globally distributed database on the market. Millions of developers and more than 50,000 customers across almost every industry—including 70 per cent of the Fortune 100—rely on MongoDB for their most important applications.
Regional Director for Middle East and Africa at MongoDB, Anders Irlander Fabry, said: “Partnering with Tier 5 Technologies is a pivotal step in deepening our presence in Nigeria—the most populous country in Africa and a key economic engine for the continent.”
A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.
An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the
floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.
A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.
GUIDE TO DATA:
Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 05 June-2025, unless otherwise stated.
DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS
AMATO, MWUN Reaffirm COMTUA Not Recognised by MaritimeTrucking Unions
Oluchi Chibuzor
The Association of Maritime Truck Owners (AMATO) and the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) have firmly reiterated that the Council of Maritime Truck Unions and Associations (COMTUA) is no longer recognised and has no standing in Nigeria’s maritime sector.
Speaking on the development, Chairman of AMATO, Remi Ogungbemi and Head of Media at MWUN, Kennedy Ikemefuna, restated the position first made public in August 2023 that COMTUA has been disbanded by its founding unions and associations.
Ogungbemi said anyone parading himself as COMTUA is doing so at his own peril.
“ COMTUA has been disbanded,” Ogungbemi said.
Echoing this stance, Ikemefuna of MWUN added, “Whoever he is talking to, that is their business because they are no longer with Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria.” He emphasized that MWUN, along with the other founding bodies, no longer recognizes COMTUA in any form.”
This reaffirmation comes in response to recent claims by unidentified individuals purporting to represent COMTUA and attempting to engage in negotiations or represent truckers’ interests in the maritime sector. According to both AMATO and MWUN, such individuals are acting without authority and in direct defiance of the formal dissolution.
In August 2023, seven major unions and associations — MWUN, AMATO, the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria
(RTEAN), National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Container Truck Owners Association of Nigeria (COTOAN), and Amalgamation of Container Truck Owners Association of Nigeria (ACTOAN) — formally disbanded COMTUA and issued a stern warning to all stakeholders and security agencies not to engage with anyone acting under its banner.
At the official dissolution ceremony held at the NARTO Secretariat in Lagos, COMTUA’s founding president, Thomson Olaleye, declared that the council had “outlived its usefulness” and ceased to exist as of July 31, 2023.
“Consequently, the freedom to associate, under which COMTUA was formed, has ceased upon the termination of the MoU and the body hitherto called COMTUA has died,” Olaleye.
WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria Signs MoA With Host Community
WACT-APM Terminals
Nigeria has recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with one of its host communities, Onne, Eleme LGA, Rivers State to solidify its long-standing partnership.
The signing of this agreement underscores the unwavering commitment of WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria to foster sustainable development and cooperation in the community in which it operates.
Speaking at the event to mark the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement, the Managing Director, WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria, Jeethu Jose described the MoA as evolving and also stated that the MoA establishes a structured framework for collaboration on key initiatives, ensuring that the needs of the communities are addressed as agreed.
Jose further highlighted a few community initiatives which includes the donation of solar power to the Primary health care facility in the host
community, a revamped scholarship program that ensures no eligible and deserving student is denied access to quality education from next year.
The Community Relations Manager, WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria, Justin Okwuofu addressed the audience on the MoA process between WACT and the community. He described the journey as participatory development and further encouraged the community to continue to support the company in carrying out future development initiatives.
“We started the process in 2022 by having a capacity building workshop for some members of the community to understand the process of drafting an MoU or MoA. And the reason we do this is because over time, we’ve seen a lot of companies that impose MoU’s on communities and because of lack of knowledge, the communities could sign without actually understanding what MoU means. But for each process, we had a series of
meetings discussing this MoU, and today, we are signing it. The process was a rigorous exercise, and to show that what we promote is what we call participatory development, we had to carry everybody along.”
Community leaders expressed optimism about the new agreement and encouraged the company to continue to support the community.
Also speaking, the Community Development Committee Chairman, Chief Sunday Dudu described the event as the first of its kind and appreciated WACT for what he termed, ‘setting the pace.’
“Today is one of the days we have been expecting, the day that is going to be remarked in the history of Onne because what we get to observe here today has never happened in past years ago. We quite appreciate it, because at the end of the day, everybody will go home with the sense of having a working document that presents what is going to happen.
Anifowose: Teachers Deserve Better Remuneration, Working Conditions
Teachers across Nigeria deserve better remuneration and working conditions considering the role they play in building the next generation and ensuring societal congruence, Oluwaseyi
Anifowose, the convener of ‘Let There Be Teachers’ Conference 2025, has said.
Speaking as a guest on Arise Television’s News Day programme, Anifowose highlighted the challenges facing teachers across the country and how the teaching profession has
been relegated to the background, thereby robbing teachers of their voice in society.
Challenges including poor remuneration, prevalence of salaries that are not commensurate with workloads and qualifications of teachers, months of unpaid salaries which force teachers to take up side jobs or abandoning the profession altogether, lack of adequate infrastructure, overcrowded and poorly ventilation of classrooms, unavailability of basic tools
including chalk, markers and text books, and lack of career progression continue dampen the morale of teachers making the professions unattractive.
According to Anifowose, “the disregard for the profession manifests in many forms even in the admission process as many students who are not able to make high admission enough scores are pushed into the faculty of education therefore breeding an education sector workforce which is poorly motivated.”
NESG, News Central Unite to Drive Economic Transformation
Omolabake Fasogbon
A partnership between News Central Television and Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) , ahead of Nigerian Economic Summit(NES) is projected to amplify public discourse and unlock opportunities for fiscal gains. The annual economic summit brings together top-tier leaders from both public and private sectors to deliberate on key economic policies, unlock
investment potential, and chart a course for enduring growth.
Chief Executive Officer of NESG,Dr. Tayo Aduloju explained that NESG’s partnership with News Central TV will amplify summit’s impact by increasing public participation and fostering meaningful dialogue on Nigeria’s economic future.
“Evidence-based advocacy and media collaboration are crucial in shaping Nigeria’s economic future. Our partnership with
News Central TV will help disseminate vital information to a broad audience and foster stakeholder engagement,” Aduloju remarked.
Commenting on the partnership, Managing Director of News Central TV, Kayode Akintemi said, “This partnership offers a valuable platform to highlight the NESG’s initiatives and actively participate in shaping national conversations on economic transformation.”
Saharan Blend
(Gabon),
Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).
The Managing Director, WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria, Jeethu Jose, (Middle from right), The Paramount Ruler of Onne- HRH King S.N Jiala, One-eh Onne (Middle from left), The Community Relations Manager, WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria, Justin Okwuofu (Right), The legal manager, WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria, Chester Odagwe (2nd right), and the various community leaders of Onne community in Eleme LGA, Rivers State at the event to mark the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement in Onne, Eleme LGA, Rivers State… recently.
Stock Market Rebounds, Appreciates by N404.58bn on Demand for Dangote Cement
Kayode Tokede
The Nigerian stock yesterday staged a rebound, recouping prior session losses as capitalisation gained N404.58 billion on investors’ demand for Dangote Cement Plc.
On investors’ surge demand, the stock price of Dangote Cement gained 4.50per cent or N18.90 per share to close at N438.90
per share from N420.00 per share it opened for trading. This led to the Nigerian Exchange Limited All-Share Index (NGX ASI) up by 641.63 basis points or 0.56 per cent to close at 114,659.11 basis points. Consequently, market capitalisation rose by N404.58 billion to close at N72.302 trillion.
Market breadth remained
positive, with 31 gainers versus 28 decliners. Associated Bus Company and Beta Glass emerged the highest price gainer of 10 per cent each to close at N2.64 and N231.10 respectively, while Berger Paints followed with a gain of 9.98 per cent to close at N24.80, per share.
Fidson Healthcare rose by 9.91 per cent to close at N34.95, while Legend Internet appreciated by 9.88
per cent to close at N6.45, per share.
On the other side, Abbey Mortgage Bank led others on the losers’ chart with 7.50 per cent to close at N5.55, per share. NCR Nigeria followed with a decline of 7.09 per cent to close at N5.50, while Vitafoam Nigeria declined by 6.64 per cent to close at N60.50, per share
DAAR Communications
shed 6.06 per cent to close at 62 kobo, while Nestle Nigeria lost 5.69 per cent to close at N1,500.00, per share.
However, the total volume traded dipped by 28.90 per cent to 471.151 million units, valued at N14.188 billion, and exchanged in 20,538 deals. Transactions in the shares of FCMB Group led the activity with 40.289 million shares worth N410.147
million. United Bank for Africa (UBA) followed with account of 36.545 million shares valued at N1.305 billion, while Access Holdings traded 35.051 million shares valued at N788.954 million.
Zenith Bank traded 28.666 million shares worth N1.439 billion, while Japaul God & Venture traded 25.368 million shares worth N50.135 million.
PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF JUNE/11/25
Pers P ective
June 12 and its Abiding Spirit
senator Opeyemi Bamidele, cON
June 12, 1993 was truly a watershed in our post-independence history as a federation of diverse people. It was a day that no fewer than 14.29 million voters trooped to their polling units nationwide to elect a new civilian president and put paid to the regime of tyranny that eclipsed our fatherland. Before us were two presidential candidates - Chief MKO Abiola of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and Alhaji Bashir Tofa of the National Republican Convention (NRC).
United by our excruciating thirst for a democratic Nigeria, at least 58.36% of the accredited voters cast their ballots in favour of Chief MKO Abiola, a business magnate and a man of the people, whose influence transversed the length and breadth of Africa. The voters, perhaps by a collective resolve, put their divergence behind them to overwhelmingly elect the presidential candidate of the SDP. It was a decision without a dot of religion, tongues and tribes. More precisely, it was a decision taken consciously in defence of people’s aspiration, freedom and future.
At least 3,000 election observers, national and international, were accredited to monitor the 1993 presidential poll. The figure also included 135 foreign observers that keenly monitored the process nearly from all developed democracies in Asia, Europe and North America, among others, Unlike the 1979 election that was largely skewed in favour of the establishment candidate and the 1983 process that was laced with fundamental flaws that later triggered violence, observers gave the 1993 process a clean bill of health. In their report, they reached a consensus that the election “was well-conducted, free, fair and therefore credible,”
What else did a leader or a regime require to uphold people’s most critical decisions, especially at a time of national emergency when people took off their togas of ethnicity and religion to elect a leader of their choice? But the Federal Military Government under General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida refused to toe the path of honour and respect the will of the electorate. Rather, in collusion with the military hierarchy of the time, IBB annulled the June 12,1993 presidential poll without justification; installed the Interim National Government that lacked legitimacy and appointed General Sani Abacha, now late, as the guardian of that contraption.
This flaw, either by commission or by omission, subsequently plunged our fatherland into a six-year vicious reign of brute despotism, the kind of which Nigeria never witnessed since the end of colonial rule on October 1, 1960. It was also a reign of brutality and incarceration, extermination and subjugation, injustice and invasion, oppression and repression that evidently set back our development trajectory and earned us pariah status among nations. Rather than surrender to the whims of the late tyrant and his associates, June 12 bred bravery and courage, sacrifice and unity, aggression and rebellion in the hearts of masses and marketers, students and labour unions, intellectuals and professionals, political class and leaders of ethnic nationalities across the Niger. Indeed, it was a fierce battle of all against tyranny and not the state, against the despots and not the people, against the cruelty of regressive forces that sought to bring us back into subjugation.
These grim realities culminated in the birth of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), an amalgam of democratic adherents that transcended the primordial considerations that dominated our politics before that time or that criss-crossed all ethnic nationalities that constitute the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The forces never left the battle for the South-west because Chief MKO Abiola hailed from the region. For any consideration, they never saw it as the battle of the South alone; neither did they approach the battlefront with the mindset of the North against the South or the South against the North.
For all democrats alike, it was essentially a battle for the soul of Nigeria. It was a battle for the future of Nigeria and her teeming people. It was a rescue mission that united all democrats against tyrants, masses against the despots as well as civil society against the mindless jackals that prowled our fatherland. And the battle was fought fiercely and won collectively, though with sore bruises that pro-June 12 advocates had to bear and the conscionable cost that they sacrificially paid for the liberation of our fatherland.
In the battlefront were Pa Anthony Enahoro, Pa Adekunle Ajasin, Chief Bola Ige, Chief Abraham Adesanya, Air Commodore Dan Suleiman, Alhaji Balarabe Musa, Amb. Walter Carrington, Com. Frank Kokori, Dr. Fredrick Fasehun, Rear Admiral Ndubudi Kanu, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Chief Ganiyu Dawodu, Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, Dr. Olikoye Ransome-Kuti,
Sir Olaniwun Ajayi, Sir Alex Ibru, Com. Chima Ubani, among others. All these titans of the struggle for democracy either died while the battle still raged or at some points after the battle was won. Nevertheless, they were all heroes of the June 12 struggle. And they will ever be remembered for standing firm against the rage of the military junta.
The struggle also paraded the fearless warriors without firearms that are still living till date. The list, though inexhaustible, eminently comprises Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, now the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Prof. Wole Soyinka, Col. Dangiwa Umar, Gen. Alani Akinrinade, Chief Ayo Opadokun, Oba Olu Falae, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi, Chief Cornelius Adebayo, Hon. Olawale Oshun, Chief Olisa Agbakoba, Chief Femi Falana, Dr. Amos Akingba and many more. Till this moment, they all occupy a prime place in the heart of our collective struggle that brought about transition to civil rule on the 29th May 1999.
The cost of the struggle was too hard to bear. The blood of the innocent was spilled on the streets of our major cities. The leaders of the struggle were murdered. In this category was Pa Alfred Rewane, who was murdered in his Ikeja home; Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, who was hacked down on the street of Lagos and Bagauda Kaltho who was torn into pieces in the heart of Kaduna. Even the murder of Rear Admiral Babatunde Elegbede, Dr. Sola Omatsola, Toyin Onagoruwa, Alhaja Suliat Adedeji and Mrs. Bisoye Tejuosho, among others, is still a source of sordid reflection that refuses to completely pale into the pit of our memory.
In his own case, Sir Alex Ibru survived the gunshot of the despots. But he was never the same again until God finally called him home on the 11th November 2011. Perhaps by providence, Pa Abraham Adesanya and Air Commodore Dan Suleiman were shot at a close range, but came out unhurt. Scores of the June 12 advocates ended up in underground detention. The list includes Chief Olu Falae, now the traditional ruler Ilu-Abo in Akure North Local Government, Senator Olabiyi Durojaiye and Chief Lam Adesina, who was paraded on the street of Ibadan as a prisoner of war.
The media was not exempted from the victims of the June 12 struggle. The fearless in this industry fought convincingly with their pens. The ink of their pens still bears witness to the gore of that slain that smeared our cities, the agony of incarceration that eclipsed the hearts of the victims and the undesirability of political asylum that became an option they never hoped for. Obviously, June 12 is one historic event that Dare Babarinsa, Nosa
Chris Anyanwu, Soji Omotunde, Kunle Ajibade, Babafemi Ojudu, Dapo Olorunyomi, Niran Malaolu, Chris Anyanwu, George Mbah, Ben Charles Obi and Bayo Onanuga, among others, will ever relish to commit their ink to scribble down their own battles against the regime of tyranny. In varying measures, they all had their own share of the bitter bile that the regime of despots served them, whether in detention or in exile, whether in brutality or in harassment, whether as fugitives or in the trench of guerilla journalism.
As an attorney that just kicked off my legal practice, I was a victim of the vicious military junta. I still remember most vividly how I was enlisted in the legal team that fought for the restoration of the June 12 mandate. I also remember how Chief G.O.K. Ajayi, now of blessed memory, led the team of eminent legal luminaries to reverse the annulment of the June 12 election. I remember how I argued for the release of 11 students of the University of Abuja before a Federal High Court in the FCT. I remember how the agents of the vicious regimes invaded my law office in Abuja because of my resolve for the release of the 11 students. I remember how my chamber assistant contacted my wife to inform me about the invasion of my law office. I remember how my wife, then a registered pharmacist with Garki General Hospital, organised an ambulance to rescue me from where I was hiding. All these scenarios marked the beginning of my journey into exile. But why did the agents of the junta invade my Abuja law office? They were, according to my chamber assistant, looking for arms and weapons they presumed I stockpiled in my law office and private residence.
History is now our living witness that bears abundant testimonies to what Nigeria and Nigerians went through under the reign of despots. In June 1998, however, the wrath of God descended up the vault of the tyrant. And that regime, again by providence, came to an abrupt end. At home or in exile, nearly all June 12 advocates could glaringly behold a ray of light at the end of the tunnel. Just at this point, the last death knell loudly rang from the cave of power in Abuja, announcing the demise of Chief MKO Abiola. What a conspiracy! What a tragedy!! What a disappointment!!! It was the end of an era that sealed the theft of people’s mandate. Chief MKO Abiola became the last victim of the struggle when we had already beheld the light. The narrative is entirely different today. Our civil space is more participatory than ever before. Our politics is open to virtually all Nigerians without discrimination. Our courts are now sacred sanctuaries
where the oppressed can freely seek redress. Unlike that era, we can freely make our choices without intimidation or exercise our rights without trepidation. Whether by law or by rights, we now enjoy all these benefits because the heroes and heroines paid supreme sacrifices for the liberty our children are now exercising in the digital space, the rights they are always willing to enforce in the court of law and the privileges they most times take for granted since the return to civil rule.
Sadly enough, the significance of this day rarely resonates with our present generations, especially those that were born shortly before June 12, 1993 and those that came after. Our upcoming leaders too are not in sync with the essence of the struggle that brought our fatherland to this new era of political liberty. These are dangerous signposts to our collective heritage. And as a consequence, the next generation may entirely lose the essence of what June 12 represents in the history of this federation if we do not brace for the task before us. The onus, first of all, rests upon us as a government or as a federation to sustain the spirit that drove the June 12 struggle and bequeath it to the future generations.
The struggle was driven absolutely by the unity of purpose. It was sustained by the spirit of self-sacrifice at a cost no actor could ever quantify. It was won by a sheer commitment to the cause that unites us rather than the fault line that divides us. These are the core drivers that then enable the spirit of the June struggle. As a federation, we must sustain and uphold the values that drove the struggle in the task of building a federation that works for all. This is the only way we can build a resilient democracy together. This is the only way we achieve a viable economy together. This is the only way we can ensure a functional democracy that purely serves the overriding public interests..
The quest for a more democratic Nigeria is not just for the government in power. The opposition also has a frontline role to play in the task of building a functional democracy. The onus now rests upon the opposition to offer credible alternatives that can reposition our economy and stabilise the political system. This is not the era to campaign for a shadow government, an idea that does not demonstrate the spirit of the June 12 struggle or that will further endanger the unity of our fatherland. It is the era that works for the unity of our fatherland and fights all divisive tendencies that threaten our collective prosperity.
•Bamidele, Leader of the 10th Senate, writes from Abuja
Igiebor,
Late MKO Abiola
THE 2025 POWER LIST: Most Influential Leaders of Nigeria’s Democracy in Policy & Leadership
No president governs in isolation. The weight of leadership is often shared quietly but powerfully by those within the inner circle. Behind every decision, policy direction, and public remarks lies a network of advisers, allies, confidants, and power brokers whose counsel and influence help shape the course of leadership. These individuals, whether appointed officials, long-time political associates, or behind-the-scenes strategists, serve as extensions of the presidency, guiding thinking, framing options, and in some cases, wielding as much sway as the leader himself.
In both formal and informal roles, they form the inner circle that often defines not just the style of governance but the substance of power.
Throughout history, leaders have relied on close advisers, trusted allies, and informal networks to navigate the complexities of governance. Their influence can be steady or shifting, visible or hidden, but one thing is sure, it is always present.
From Napoleon Bonaparte, whose wife, Josephine de Beauharnais, played a key role in shaping his early political alliances, to Franklin D. Roosevelt, whose wife, Eleanor, is recorded to have seriously influenced his views on civil rights and social justice, the story has been the same throughout history.
Even Adolf Hitler had Joseph Goebbels, who helped shape his Nazi policies, propaganda, and military strategy. In the same vein, Joseph Stalin was said to have been influenced by Lavrentiy Beria, his secret police chief, who was key in shaping his oppressive regime.
In Nigeria, in the dynamic landscape of the country’s politics, a few figures have commanded as much reach in terms of knitting alliances as President Bola Tinubu, whose rise to, and sustenance in power is not only shaped by his own ambitions but also by a close circle of powerful allies, family, and advisers.
These men and women drawn from familial, political, business, and administrative spheres have played critical roles in steering policy, guiding national discourse, and executing the vision of his administration.
While Tinubu’s leadership style and political legacy continue to draw analysis, equally significant are these individuals working closely with him and who form the backbone of an administration that has come to be passionately admired and intensely despised in equal measure by Nigerians.
Indeed, Tinubu has long understood the value of surrounding himself with influential voices. From seasoned politicians and trusted loyalists to rising technocrats and private sector players, these persons around him are playing key roles in forging the nation’s direction, defining the administration’s tone, its priorities, and its response to the nation’s complex challenges.
Therefore, to understand the Tinubu presidency, one must also understand the people who stand beside and sometimes behind him. Here’s a THISDAY list of these powerful persons – seen or unseen –influencing Tinubu’s decisions.
Tinubu
Oluremi Tinubu: First Lady, Soft Power
First Lady of the country and wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, understands that these are different roles and balances them very well. A trained teacher, she has made significant impacts in the administration of her husband, President Bola Tinubu, as a critical support system.
In the two years of the Tinubu administration, Oluremi, a former first lady of Lagos State, has shown great understanding of her husband’s Renewed Hope Agenda by setting up various affiliate Renewed Hope initiatives to support the efforts of her husband.
C LOSE Fam ILy mE mb ERS
From donating to various courses and initiating empowerment in the name of the government and her husband, the first lady has redefined the importance and relevance of her office through effective deployment of her soft power. Is there any need to further emphasise her place in the administration? She is not just family, she embodies her husband.
Wale Tinubu: Eyes on the Business World
The Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of Oando Plc, Mr. Wale Tinubu, is not just a nephew of the president, but one very close to his heart. Perhaps, as a result of age and exposure, Wale is not one to brazenly throw his influence in government around. But he is definitely one of the precious eyes through which the president sees what’s going on in the business world.
But when you look at the president’s policies and their impact on the energy sector, where Oando Plc operates, the initiate can tell where some of the ideas might have generated from.
The Tinubu administration has introduced reforms aimed at improving the energy sector, and apart from achieving fuel supply security through local refining, and reducing dependence on imports, there’s also the Gas-to-Power Initiative, which included focusing on natural gas, climate-conscious solutions and more. Do the mathematics and see that the Wale you know now is not the hitherto regular one. This is the president’s nephew whose views matter.
siKiru adeKunle
Tinubu: The Great ‘Healer’
Being family is one and being the president’s personal physician on the side is another. This, of course, indicates a very high level of trust and confidence in the individual. Dr. Sikiru Adekunle Tinubu, also known as HMSE (Dr.) Ade Tinubu, is the personal physician to President Tinubu. These combined give him significant access to the President, including accompanying him on both local and international trips, which could translate to some level of influence. A US-trained General Surgeon, Dr. Tinubu brings a wealth of medical expertise to his role. Before his appointment, he was the Director of the Critical Care Unit at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH).
GbOyeGa OyeTOla: The Timeless Custodian
Those who thought the Minister of Marine and Blue economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, got his appointment because the president is his uncle, clearly do not know how far this duo had come.
For a man, who is major in loyalty and trust, Oyetola has earned his place in the heart of the president, not just because he is family but because he has continued to pass all the test of loyalty, honesty and sincerity.
From the time the president was in exile pre-Nigeria’s return to democracy, Oyetola has always been the one overseeing his properties and everything with the name of his uncle on it. He did so with all honesty, a disposition that had long endeared to the president.
There’s no doubting the fact Oyetola’s experience in the private sector merited for where he is. That does not count with the president as much as his rare quality which underscores loyalty. He is family. He is close. He wields huge influence.
seyi Tinubu: Power Centre for Youths
The scion of the family, Seyi Tinubu, has seized every opportunity to establish his name and place in the government of his father. In fact, of the other children, the shadows of Seyi looms large, not just as a significance but also in deeds. That a majority of the young folks in the Tinubu administration came through Seyi is not a fluke. His influence is so humongous that even ministers are said to defer to him on certain issues.
President Tinubu seems to have been deliberately positioning him, even he once publicly reprimanded him for stepping out of line by sitting at the Federal Executive Council (FEC), this has not diminished Seyi in any form or shape. While many are not comfortable with the way he sometimes swings his influence, no one has denied the fact he played a major role in the election of his father through blinding mobilisation. That Seyi is by himself a power centre is not subject to debate.
yinKa Tinubu: The Family’s Watchdog
Another one of Tinubu’s sons, Yinka, is on the quiet side, and not as outgoing as his brother, Seyi. The most people had seen of Yinka is that he practices his father’s religion and always prays with him during Muslim festivities. But that is not all, from his little corner, he has also been mobilising requisite support for his father, the president.
Along with his brother, Seyi, Yinka once led a humanitarian initiative, ST Noella Relief, to support flood victims in Maiduguri, Borno State, where they mobilised significant aid, including food, medical supplies, and nonfood items, to help thousands of internally displaced persons. He recently accompanied his father on a state visit to Qatar. Thus, in his little way, he commands his influence and deploys them as needed. Yinka is not always seen, but he remains in the background watching over the family.
FOlashade Tinubu-OjO: Reigning in Market Women
Being the Iyaloja-General of Nigeria naturally places a huge responsibility on one of the daughters of the president, Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, as a troops commander. He looks over a very critical constituency in the political demography of both the state and the nation.
Her position as the Iyaloja-General of Lagos, is though a prestigious title which cuts across ethnic barrier, the accompanying responsibility could drown the faint-hearted. But Shade has carried on so well, ensuring the foot soldiers are not only loyal but always battle-ready. She has not kept them by coercion but through leadership that places emphasis on rewards and sanctions. She’s definitely her father’s daughter.
V ICE P RESI d E n T
Kashim sheTTima: A Worthy Co-Pilot
By constitutional demands and moral expectations, Vice-President Kashim Shettima, plays a significant role in Tinubu’s administration, particularly in economic matters. He chairs the National Economic Council, which drives deliberations on macro-economic stability and revenue generation to support social interventions.
It is difficult to forget easily how Tinubu fought tooth and nail to ensure Shettima emerges his running mate. The idea of having a MuslimMuslim ticket was the biggest challenge of the joint ticket at the time. But Tinubu stood his ground, insisting the move was a test of the nation’s fledgling democracy. From all indications, Shettima has never taken this show of love and preference for him for granted, when there were over a thousand replacement for him. He deployed to work immediately and had since day one been defending the person of the president and the administration.
Inn ER C IRCLE
Godswill AkpAbio: Tinubu’s Loyal Anchor in the Senate
Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio is a Nigerian lawyer and politician currently serving as the 15th President of the Nigerian Senate, a position he has held since June 13, 2023. Representing the Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District, Akpabio’s political journey has been marked by significant feats and controversies.
In 2002, he was appointed Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Resources in Akwa Ibom State. He later served in other key ministries. His political ascent culminated in his election as Governor of Akwa Ibom State from 2007 to 2015, during which he initiated the “Uncommon Transformation” programme, leading to significant infrastructure developments, including the construction of the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
wAle eduN:
The Financial Advisor
The government of Bola Tinubu literally revolves around the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun. Edun, and the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Yemi Cardoso, have consistently maintained that despite the hardship in the country, the economic reforms of Tinubu’s government were bearing fruit. Giving credence to this, Moody’s recently upgraded Nigeria’s rating to ‘B3’. The rating, which is an increment of the previous ‘Caa1’, was anchored on perceived improvement in Nigeria’s external and fiscal positions.
Edun, also, recently announced that a forensic audit of the NNPC would begin soon. The minister explained that the recent changes in the NNPC management were part of a broader effort by the federal government to clean up and examine the company closely.
Edun had led a meeting with concessionaires under the Highway Development and Initiative (HDMI) of the federal government to unlock road infrastructure investments estimated at over N1.5 trillion. The meeting was held in the context of the government’s reforms and drive towards expanding private sector investment in Nigeria.
yemi CARdoso: The Shrewd Money Man
Prior to the emergence of the Tinubu presidency, the president had already hinted that he would appoint Yemi Cardoso, either as the governor of the apex bank or the Finance Minister.
“We want good roads, they are expensive. We cannot fund it alone. We have to establish long term money for long term projects. We have to look at fiscal policy and separate that from monetary policy. We have to get a headmaster like Cardoso.
“You can’t pass a sheet of paper through him unless you have a budget for it. Then there’s no head. Then we name him headmaster master. The job he did for Lagos State, with Wale Edun and others. I was not alone, I worked with a great team,” Tinubu had said during the 2023 campaign.
Despite criticisms, he emphasised that the bank’s decision to float the Naira was inevitable to “bring the official exchange rate closer to market reality”. He recently noted that the monetary and fiscal wings were steering the economic
Femi GbAjAbiAmilA: Strategic Gatekeeper
Tinubu’s Chief of Staff and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, is a central figure in the administration’s power structure. A lawyer by training and long-time mentee of Tinubu, Gbajabiamila’s political career has been nurtured by the president from his early days in Lagos politics to national prominence. His deep legislative experience, political loyalty, and elite network make him one of the most influential players in Tinubu’s inner circle.
As Chief of Staff, Gbajabiamila controls access to the president, manages appointments, and coordinates intergovernmental communications. He’s the engine room of the presidency, with visibility into nearly every major policy and political decision. His time as Speaker gave him unparalleled insight into the National Assembly’s workings—knowledge that is now crucial as Tinubu seeks legislative support for his agenda.
Nyesom wike: The ‘Transformational’ Landlord
The Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, is one of the most powerful ministers in the Tinubu government.
Though a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Wike, in a recent interview said he would lead Tinubu’s re-election campaign in Rivers State. He also told whoever cared to listen that his loyalty in 2027 would lie with Tinubu, not the PDP’s presidential candidate.
Wike, who served as governor of Rivers State until 2023, supported Tinubu, then presidential candidate of the ruling party during the last election. His open backing of the APC candidate, despite being a senior PDP figure, deepened the internal crisis within the opposition party.
The former Governor of Rivers State worked against his party in the 2023 elections after he lost the Presidential ticket to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. While Wike has remained in the PDP, he also controls the structure of the APC in Rivers State, and in a sense unsettling both parties to the advantage of the president. Asides his humongous power derived from his relationship with the president, he is also a performing minister.
dele AlAke: Long Time Confidant
The Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, has been one of Tinubu’s foot soldiers since he served as the governor of Lagos State. While the ministerial list of Tinubu was still being awaited, Nigerians already thought he would be appointed the Minister of Information.
Months after, Alake revealed that he had known he would be appointed as Minister of Solid Minerals. Following his appointment, Alake swung into action, launching a seven-point agenda to reform and reposition the mining sector for international competitiveness and domestic prosperity.
To achieve his goals in the sector, Alake established Mining Marshals to tackle insecurity in the sector. The operatives are drawn from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), specially trained by the military. The marshals are deployed across the 36 states and the FCT.
Alake recently said the administration’s new policy of local value addition and a tightened licensing regime attracted the $800 million investment in processing projects to Nigeria’s solid minerals sector.
Nuhu RibAdu: Reimaging Security
One of the strongest members of Tinubu’s inner caucus is the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu. If what is being said through the grapevine is anything to go by, he’s one of the few who has the ears of the president.
Some even believe that Ribadu is already positioning himself to take over from the President in 2031. His appointment took many by surprise. Not because he wasn’t capable, but because past presidents had always appointed retired military chiefs to the NSA. Nevertheless, Tinubu decided to break from the pack by appointing Ribadu, a retired police officer as the NSA.
Before the emergence of Tinubu’s administration, Nigeria’s security architecture was grappling with deeply entrenched challenges, particularly in the Northwest and Southeast regions. The situation had deteriorated to alarming levels, with criminal elements and secessionist movements establishing a disturbing level of control in certain areas.
ZACCh Adedeji: The Tax Collector
Dr. Zacch Adedeji, an accountant and public servant, currently serves as the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), a position he has held since September 2023. Prior to this, he was the Special Adviser to the President on Revenue, leveraging his extensive expertise in fiscal policy to drive national economic reforms.
Adedeji’s academic journey reflects his commitment to excellence. He earned a FirstClass degree in Management and Accounting from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, where he also obtained a Master of Science and a Doctor of Philosophy in Accounting. Furthering his expertise, he completed an Executive Course in Economic Development at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government.
His professional career began at Procter & Gamble, where he held various managerial roles. In 2011, he was appointed Commissioner for Finance in Oyo State, serving until 2015. During his tenure, he implemented significant fiscal reforms, including increasing the state’s minimum wage and introducing a 13th-month salary for civil servants.
Inn ER C IRCLE
nurudeen Yusuf:
The Steely ADC
Lt. Col. Nurudeen Yusuf is Tinubu’s Aide-deCamp (ADC), serving as the president’s personal military assistant and protocol overseer. His position is unique—not political, yet central to the daily workings of the presidency. A highly trained officer, Yusuf provides not just security but structure, discipline, and control around Tinubu’s schedule and engagements.
Selected from the elite ranks of the Nigerian Army, Yusuf is responsible for coordinating the president’s movements, security protocol, and military ceremonial duties. His influence may appear symbolic, but his daily proximity to the President puts him in a position of immense trust, power and influence. He ensures that protocol is observed, meetings are discreet, and Tinubu’s personal operations run with military precision.
Beyond formality, the ADC serves as a silent observer of power, understanding not only how Tinubu works but who wields influence. This insight allows him to be a quiet confidant and enforcer of boundaries. His loyalty is to the person of the president—not the political actors—and that neutrality makes him a stabilising figure in a fast-moving political environment.
damilOtun
aderemi: Voice of New Generation
Prince Damilotun Aderemi is one of the rising stars in Tinubu’s circle—a youthful technocrat and policy strategist, whose influence belies his relatively low public profile. He serves as Special Assistant on Strategic Communications and has been instrumental in shaping the tone, narrative, and media strategy of the Tinubu presidency, particularly in the digital sphere.
Aderemi brings a sharp, modern approach to governance communications, with expertise in digital policy, data-driven storytelling, and public perception management. His influence lies in his ability to synthesise complex policies into compelling narratives that resonate with the public and international observers. In an age where perception is power, Aderemi is crucial in safeguarding the Tinubu administration’s image.
Beyond communications, he is also known to play a quiet advisory role in policy design, especially in the tech and youth inclusion spaces. As a bridge between the older political class and the younger demographic, Aderemi is part of Tinubu’s effort to refresh his image and remain relevant across generational lines.
Aderemi represents Tinubu’s trust in a new
CHristOpHer musa: The Trusted One
A Christian from Southern Kaduna, the choice of Gen. Christopher Musa, as the Chief of Defence Staff, aside from his sterling military exploits, was shaped by several other strategic considerations - political, and national unity.
By appointing a Christian from the Middle Belt, Tinubu aimed at balancing the perceptions of inclusion across religious and regional lines, sending a signal of national integration and addressing concerns of marginalisation.
In essence, the decision was seen as a blend of merit, inclusivity, and political signaling, aimed at stabilising both the military structure and the entire national sentiment.
Known for his disciplined, apolitical stance and strong support for constitutional democracy, Musa came highly recommended and has been leading the government’s charge to end insurgency and other high crimes nationwide, coordinating with the president and other security chiefs to address Nigeria’s security challenges.
Hakeem muri-OkunOla: The Technocrat Executor
Hakeem Muri-Okunola, the Head of Service of Lagos State and now a top aide in the Presidency, is one of Tinubu’s most trusted technocrats. As a seasoned administrator with a background in law and public service, Muri-Okunola often referred to as HMO, has proven to be an indispensable figure in the management of bureaucracy and government operations.
HMO rose through the ranks under Tinubu’s political watch and became one of the most influential civil servants in Lagos, overseeing personnel and institutional reforms. His appointment to Tinubu’s presidential team signals not just loyalty, but competence. He is viewed as the man Tinubu trusts to execute his vision with efficiency and discretion.
What sets Muri-Okunola apart is his deep understanding of both the political and bureaucratic arms of governance. He operates as a vital node between policy conception and execution, helping to ensure that Tinubu’s directives are implemented without friction.
rasHeed lawal: The Silent Shield
President Tinubu’s Chief Security Officer (CSO), Rasheed Lawal, plays one of the most critical, often overlooked, roles in the presidency. As the head of the president’s personal security apparatus, Lawal is not just a bodyguard—he is the protector of the nation’s most powerful individual and a gatekeeper to his physical presence.
With a career in the Department of State Services (DSS), Lawal brings elite-level training, intelligence gathering, and operational experience to the role. His job goes far beyond protecting the president from physical threats—it includes screening people, managing access, coordinating logistics, and vetting information flows, especially in crisis situations.
His influence is rooted in his proximity. He sees and hears everything—who visits, what’s discussed behind closed doors, how decisions are made. Because of this, his discretion, loyalty, and judgment are paramount. He is one of the very few with uninterrupted access to the president, and that gives him even enormous informal power.
K E y adv ISERS
The 18th Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) is not an accidental pick but a conscious choice that embodies everything that epitomises competence, trust and loyalty.
GeOrGe akume: Coordinating Chief
Senator George Akume is a seasoned politician and public servant, currently serving as the 21st Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), a position he has held since June 7, 2023, following his appointment by Tinubu.
Akume’s political career commenced in 1999 when he was elected Governor of Benue State, serving two terms until 2007. Subsequently, he represented Benue North-West Senatorial District in the National Assembly from 2007 to 2019, during which he held the position of Senate Minority Leader from 2011 to 2015, a development made possible by Tinubu by virtue of their relationship.
In August 2019, he was appointed Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs under President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. His extensive experience in governance and administration culminated in his current role as SGF, where he plays a pivotal role in coordinating federal government activities and fostering intergovernmental relations. Throughout his career, Akume has received numerous accolades, including the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) and the Distinguished Alumnus Award from the University of Ibadan Alumni Association.
Olu VerHeijen: Energy Policy Expert
President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Energy, Olu Verheijen, has a role that underscores a strong professional relationship rooted in extensive expertise in the energy sector.
Appointed in June 2023, Verheijen brings nearly two decades of experience spanning oil, gas, power, and renewables across sub-Saharan Africa. Her career includes significant roles at Shell, where she led multi-billion-dollar mergers and acquisitions, and as Managing Director of Latimer Energy, a consultancy specialising in energy investment strategies.
She has also been involved with organisations like the Energy for Growth Hub and the Millennium Challenge Corporation, reflecting her commitment to energy development and policy.
In her capacity as Special Adviser, Verheijen has been instrumental to shaping Nigeria’s energy policies under Tinubu’s administration.
Hadiza Bala usman: The Class Prefect
She is the Special Adviser on Policy and Coordination Central Delivery Coordination Unit (CDCU). She’s in charge of monitoring the performance of the appointees of government, especially the ministers in Tinubu’s administration.
In spite of the fact that her former boss and erstwhile governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, has jumped ship, the decision of Bala-Usmam to stay in Tinubu’s administration shows she enjoys a good working relationship with the president.
THE POWER LIST… THE POWER LIST… THE POWER LIST…
K E y adv ISERS
AbdullAhi GAnduje:
The Party in His Hand
Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje is a politician and academic, who served as the Governor of Kano State from 2015 to 2023. In August 2023, Ganduje was appointed National Chairman of the APC, succeeding Abdullahi Adamu.
Ganduje’s political career began in the 1990s. He served as Deputy Governor of Kano State under Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso from 1999 to 2003 and again from 2011 to 2015. In 2015, he was elected Governor of Kano State on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and was re-elected in 2019.
During his tenure as governor, Ganduje focused on education, healthcare, and infrastructure. He established the Muhammadu Buhari Specialist Hospital and a Cancer Treatment Centre in Kano, enhancing healthcare services in the state. In education, he implemented policies to improve access and quality, including the establishment of three state-owned universities. He has been recognised with several awards, including the National Honours Award of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) in 2014. He is very close to the president.
Atiku bAGudu: Think-tank and Strategist
The Minister of Budget and National Planning, Atiku Bagudu, is one of Tinubu’s most trusted allies and a key member of his cabinet. Before his foray into politics, he worked as an economist at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and later moved to CitiBank (formerly Nigeria International Bank) and FSB International Bank Limited. His last banking experience was with the World Bank/IF.
Considering his experience in the price sector, it is safe to say that his new role was merited. While appraising two years of Tinubu’s presidency, Bagudu believed that Nigeria’s economy is undergoing a turnaround, driven by bold reforms, improved coordination, and a renewed focus on national priorities.
He said foreign and domestic investors have responded positively to the government’s economic agenda, particularly in sectors like agriculture, energy, and infrastructure.
He attributed this renewed interest to the administration’s focus on credibility, transparency, and structural change, stressing that investors are keen on policies that ensure good returns. The minister described the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of the foreign exchange market as transformative decisions that have restored fiscal sanity.
heineken lOkPObiri: Tinubu’s Energy Box
Senator Heineken Lokpobiri’s appointed as the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), is pivotal in advancing the administration’s energy policies. Essentially, Nigeria relies on crude oil export for over 80 per cent of its foreign exchange earnings.
Lokpobiri is slowly but steadily steering the sector aright, significantly raising crude oil production and overseeing the successful completion of all pending divestment deals, which looked almost impossible under his predecessor.
Several times, Lokpobiri has publicly commended Tinubu’s leadership style, describing it as a guiding light for the nation’s development. This acknowledgment reflects a positive working rapport.
bAyO OjulAri:
Hired on Trust & Competence
Bayo Ojulari, an experienced petroleum engineer and former Shell executive, was appointed by Tinubu as the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) on April 2, 2025. His choice did not come easy as it generated heated ethnic debate. Although a Yoruba by name, Ojulari has said time and time again that he is a northerner, from Kwara State. But the opposition against him didn’t stifle the president, who insisted on his choice.
With his appointment, Ojulari brings with him over three decades of experience in the oil and gas industry. And immediately on assuming office, he had hinted at the many reforms he is bringing to the sector, and this has begun already.
Ojulari’s appointment aligned with Tinubu’s strategy to infuse the NNPC with experienced private-sector leadership and revitalise the company, raise crude production, attract investment and improve operational efficiency.
Ojulari earned the president’s trust and loyalty even before he came into the system. This exudes nothing but confidence in his capacity.
AdAms OshiOmhOle: The Comrade Ally
Beyond being political associates, the duo of President Tinubu and Senator Adams Oshiomhole share a rare bond. The love. They exhibit is enough to stoke envy in the political circle. Oshiomhole showed this when he was elected the national chairman of the APC. He sometime did Tinubu’s bidding without recourse to what then president, Buhari thought or would do.
The interesting thing about the Tinubu/ Oshiomhole affair is that while Oshiomhole would go to any length to defend Tinubu, he is also not afraid to tell him the truth privately, and reprimand the government publicly. Oshiomhole wields huge influence and sits on the from row of the president’s associates.
dAve umAhi: Bridge across the Niger
The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, is perceived as one of the few ministers in Tinubu’s cabinet that can be easily singled out as performing. This role continues to keep him at the forefront of national infrastructure development.
His performance in delivering notable projects is pivotal to the realisation of Tinubu’s second term agenda. If anyone qualifies to be part of Tinubu’s key ministers, it’s him.
Tinubu, last week, publicly expressed strong support for Umahi, particularly regarding the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project. During the commissioning of the Deep Sea Port Access Road in Lagos on June 5, 2025, Tinubu urged Umahi to disregard critics of the highway project, stating: “I appeal to you, David, don’t listen to those critics. They don’t know what they are talking about” .
In response to the support, Umahi assured the president of his dedication to delivering the projects, highlighting that international financiers have endorsed the highway project, even describing it as undervalued.
Ali PAte: New Face of the Health Sector
The Minister of Health, Ali Pate, is attempting to transform the health sector, with a focus on improved governance, better health outcomes, unlocking healthcare value chains, and bolstering health security.
A cornerstone of this reform is the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative, anchored by a Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp) that promotes strategic coordination among government institutions, development partners, and private sector stakeholders to ensure impactful and accountable investments.
Under Pate’s leadership, strategic priorities include revitalising primary healthcare by strengthening frontline health facilities and expanding the community health workforce, Scaling up maternal, newborn, and child health services to reduce preventable mortality, accelerating malaria elimination efforts, including the introduction of the malaria vaccine Promoting local production of health commodities and strengthening the health workforce for national resilience.
lAteef fAGbemi: Guardian of the Law
A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Lateef Fagbemi, a prince from Kwara State, is the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice. Fagbemi’s association with the president is rooted in a longstanding professional relationship.
Over the past two decades, Fagbemi has represented Tinubu in various legal matters, establishing himself as a trusted legal adviser to the president. He, upon his appointment, emphasised that he did not lobby for the ministerial position, but that Tinubu personally selected him, expressing a desire for him to contribute to national development through his expertise in the justice sector.
As Attorney General, Fagbemi has been a major factor in supporting and defending Tinubu’s policies, like the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing security concerns and aligning with a Supreme Court ruling that criticised the state governor’s actions. You can’t be the nation’s AGF and not have a personal relationship with your principal. Fagbemi’s case is settled.
Key advisers
OlasupO Olusi: A Face of the Future
The appointment of Olasupo Olusi as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Bank of Industry (BOI) is tied to a future not yet seen. Olusi is a seasoned economist and development finance expert with over two decades of experience.
For those who know the president very well, Olusi’s immediate appointment is nothing as much as the probability that the president has marked him as one of the faces being saved for the future.
He served as a World Bank economist and, between 2011 and 2015, was the economic adviser to the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance. His academic credentials include a Master’s degree in International Money, Finance, and Investment, and a Doctorate in Finance and Economics from Durham University in the United Kingdom.
His appointment aligned with the president’s strategy of bringing experienced professionals into key positions to drive economic development and industrial growth.
mOhammed idris: Uncommon Mouthpiece
The extensive background of the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, in media and communications, is irresistible, not just for the president but anyone who appreciates hard work and sound mind.
Aside from founding the Blueprint newspaper and WE FM radio station, his role as Director of Strategic Communications for the Tinubu-Shettima Presidential Campaign Council, underscored his close professional relations with the president.
As the government’s chief spokesperson, Idris has been pivotal to articulating and promoting the administration’s policies. He has tirelessly sold the current administration’s policies, highlighting reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidies, the introduction of a student loan programme, and the establishment of CreditCorp as evidence of the administration’s commitment to national development. His role in the presidential campaign and subsequent appointment as Minister of Information reflects a mutual trust and alignment with the president’s vision for the country.
Tunji alausa: Leveraging Trust & Loyalty
One of the trust hands in the administration is medical doctor, specialising in nephrology. His name is Tunji Alausa. He is the current Minister of Education. He was first the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, serving in both office under the same administration at the initial stage.
A resident in Internal Medicine at Cook County Hospital, where he held the position of Chief Medical Resident from 1997 to 2001, he later became an assistant professor at Rush University Medical School before specialising in Nephrology and Hypertension at the Medical College of Wisconsin from July 2002 to June 2004.
Alausa also had a residency in Internal Medicine at both the Royal Bolton Hospital and the University of Newcastle from 1995 to 1997. On 16 August 2023, Tinubu appointed him minister of State for Health and Social Welfare and was sworn in on 21 August 2023.
musa Kida: Not Kidding on the Job
Musa Kida is a seasoned engineer, was appointed Chairman of the NNPC on April 2, 2025, as part of the restructuring of the national oil company aimed at enhancing efficiency and attracting investment in Nigeria’s oil sector.
Kida boasts over 32 years of experience in the oil and gas industry. He began his career at Elf Petroleum Nigeria (now TotalEnergies) in 1985 and rose to become the Deputy Managing Director of Total E&P Nigeria’s Deepwater District.
He has also served as an Independent Non-executive Director at Pan Ocean-Newcross Group. In addition to his engineering career, Kida has been the President of the Nigerian Basketball Federation (NBBF) since 2017.
Bunmi Tunji-OjO: Changing the Narrative
Another young cabinet member, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and minister of interior, is one of the few changing the narrative of the Tinubu administration through evident performance.
An engineer, entrepreneur, philanthropist and politician, a former member of the House of Representatives for Akoko North East/ Akoko North West Federal Constituency of Ondo State from 2019 to 2023, has altered the story. Of the nation’s internal affairs in a way that foreigners have attested to his efforts.
During his first term in the House, he was the chairman of the House Committee on Niger Delta Development Commission. On 26 February 2023, he was re-elected as the federal lawmaker representing Akoko North East and North West Federal Constituency.
However, he resigned his membership of the lower chamber of the National Assembly after being appointed by Tinubu as minister
Yusuf Tuggar: Global Salesman
A diplomat and politician, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has a background in both legislative and diplomatic works, including serving as a member of the House of Representatives and later, the Nigerian Ambassador to Germany.
After graduating, Tuggar spent several years in the private sector. He was the Chief Executive of Nordic Oil and Gas Services, an energy consulting firm.
He represented Gamawa from Bauchi State in the House of Representatives from 2007 to 2011, and served as the Chairman of the House Committee on Public Procurement, regulating government spending in the oil and gas industry, education, health and water resources. The committee worked on separating the president’s cabinet from affairs of awarding contracts. He also oversaw the creation of the National Council on Public Procurement, and was the member of the House committee that worked on Local content bill with a focus in oil and gas. He was also as a member of the House committee on foreign affairs and deputy chairman of the House on Public Petitions. He sponsored a bill on inhumane transport of livestock on the floor of the house.
BOsun Tijani: Man with Elephantine Reputation
A Nigerian-British entrepreneur and current Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Olatunbosun Tijani, is one of the youngest in the Tinubu administration. In 2019, under his leadership, CcHUB acquired Kenya’s iHub and launched the CcHUB Design Lab in Kigali, Rwanda in the same year.
Before CcHUB, Tijani worked with the International Trade Centre, Geneva, Switzerland as a Fellow, researching on trade development with particular emphasis on enterprise management development.
During this period, he successfully led the development and deployment of a webmarketing and information services programme in Ghana between March and September 2006 and subsequently in Uganda and Kenya, which recorded positive outputs. The programme was deployed in Ethiopia and later extended to South Africa and Tanzania.
TOYin suBair: Gatekeeper to the President’s Residence
Toyin Subair, Special Adviser on Domestic Affairs to President Bola Tinubu, plays a critical but low profile role at the heart of the Presidency. As the gatekeeper to the President’s personal and residential environment, he manages internal logistics, access, and sensitive engagements that rarely make the headlines. Trusted by Tinubu for his discretion and loyalty, Subair ensures seamless coordination within the inner sanctum of Aso Rock. His role demands a rare blend of tact, firmness, and trustworthiness, making him one of the unseen hands quietly shaping the tone and tempo of life around the Nigerian President.
Tajudeen abbas: Putting the House in Check
The current Speaker of House of Representatives, Dr. Tajudeen Abbas, assumed office on June 13, 2023. Representing Zaria Federal Constituency in Kaduna State, he secured the position with a commanding 353 votes out of 359, defeating his opponents by a significant margin.
Abbas’s professional background spans teaching, academia, and the private sector. He began as a primary school teacher, later becoming a lecturer at Kaduna State Polytechnic and Kaduna State University. He also held managerial positions in the Nigerian Tobacco Distribution Company (now British American Tobacco).
ibrahim masari: Always at His Service
Alhaji Ibrahim Kabir Masari is a prominent politician and public servant from Katsina State, known for his role in the APC.
In the lead-up to Nigeria’s 2023 presidential election, Masari was appointed as a placeholder vice presidential candidate for Tinubu, the APC presidential nominee. This strategic move allowed the APC to meet the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) submission deadline and afforded Tinubu additional time to finalise his choice for a substantive running mate.
Masari, a politician from Katsina State and former National Welfare Secretary of the APC, officially withdrew his candidacy on July 10, 2022. In his resignation letter, he stated that stepping down would provide Tinubu with greater flexibility to select a running mate, who could enhance the party’s inclusivity and electoral prospects.
OluwaTOsin ajayi: The President’s Invisible Enforcer
The Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, is one of the most powerful security figures in Nigeria today. His role as intelligence chief places him at the epicentre of national security, surveillance, and political risk management. Ajayi works behind the scene to monitor threats, protect the presidency, and neutralise destabilising actors.
His appointment signalled a call to professionalism of the Service which unfortunately had been politicised and plagued by incompetence. Ajayi not only secures the regime but shapes its strategic calculations by supplying critical intelligence. Ultimately, he protects democracy. His influence is immense while quietly steering decisions that affect power, policy, and political survival of the country.
THE POLITI c AL LEADERS
benjamin Kalu: Another Leg in Southeast
Benjamin Okezie Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, represents the Bende Federal Constituency in Abia State. Kalu is a member of the APC and has been recognised for his legislative acumen and commitment to national development. His contributions are quite notable. He has sponsored and supported numerous bills, including the Acts Authentication Act and the Nigerian Communications Act. As Chairman of the House Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, he has played a pivotal role in constitutional reforms. His efforts have earned him several accolades, such as the Most Valuable Parliamentarian Award by OrderPaper in 2023 and the Outstanding Representative Member of the Year by the Democracy Heroes Award Africa in 2022.
barau jibrin: A Collaborative Senator
Senator Barau Jibrin is the current Deputy President of the Senate, representing Kano North Senatorial District. He was first elected to the Senate in 2015 and has since been re-elected in 2019 and 2023. His unopposed election as Deputy Senate President on June 13, 2023, underscores his widespread respect and influence within the National Assembly.
Educationally, Senator Jibrin holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting, multiple master’s degrees, including in financial management, pricing, and management, and an MBA. He furthered his expertise with a certificate in Financial Management for Business Decisions from Cornell University in the United States. Before entering politics, he held significant roles in Kano State.
T HE E nf OR c ERS
His influence on the president is enormous. For the first time, he recommended the appointment of a Deputy Director-General for the Service — and the President aceded.
dipO eludOyin:
The All-time Backup
The reserved and enigmatic businessman behind the Paragon Group, Prince Dipo Eludoyin, has long been a key figure in Tinubu’s financial and political architecture. As a close personal friend and confidant of the President, Eludoyin’s influence rests not on political office or public visibility, but on his role as a trusted adviser, business strategist, and silent financier.
Ola OluKOyede: The Anti-graft Czar
Olanipekun Olukoyede, Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), is central to Tinubu’s image of reform and accountability. As the first lawyer to head the commission, Olukoyede brings to the table, both legal expertise and insider knowledge of the system.
His appointment reflects Tinubu’s trust in his discretion and strategic instincts. With the EFCC under his leadership, Tinubu can pursue targeted anti-corruption efforts while controlling the political fallout.
Olukoyede’s ability to balance enforcement with political calculation makes him one of the most powerful regulatory figures under this administration, instrumental in managing perception, discipline, and power consolidation.
cO nf IDA n TS
Eludoyin made his fortune in real estate and investments, building a reputation as a deal-maker who prefers to operate away from the limelight. He is widely credited with helping to structure discreet business interests for Tinubu and other allies, creating the financial base that supported Tinubu’s rise from Lagos Governor to President. This makes Eludoyin indispensable not only for his wealth, but also for his strategic acumen and loyalty. His influence is institutional and enduring. He is a fixer, who understands the intersection of business and politics and has consistently acted as a conduit for channeling private-sector interests into the political system.
GilberT ChaGOury: Global Operator with Nigerian Root
Gilbert Chagoury, the reclusive billionaire of Lebanese-Nigerian descent, is one of the most influential and discreet players in Nigeria’s political economy. As founder of the Chagoury Group—an empire spanning construction, real estate, hospitality, and telecommunications— Chagoury has long held sway with successive governments through strategic investments and long-term partnerships.
His relationship with Tinubu has grown increasingly strategic, especially as Tinubu seeks to project economic strength and global credibility.
Chagoury’s business interests align with Tinubu’s goals for infrastructure development and private-sector-driven growth. His pivotal role in the Eko
real estate and environmental initiative in Lagos—has positioned him as a critical player in shaping the future of Nigeria’s financial hub.
Atlantic City project—an ambitious
THE POWER LIST… THE POWER LIST… THE POWER LIST…
C ON f I d ANTS
Olusegun OsOba: The Bridge Between Eras
A veteran journalist and politician, who learnt directly under the tutelage of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Aremo Olusegun Osoba,was a two-time Governor of Ogun State. He is a highly influential political figure whose relationship with Tinubu is based on mutual respect, shared progressive ideals, and decades of strategic collaboration. A stalwart of southwest politics and one of the founding fathers of the APC, Osoba has served as a key elder in Tinubu’s political journey.
Osoba’s power comes not just from his political pedigree, but also from his mastery of public communication and his ability to navigate political terrains with diplomacy and tact. He has served as a bridge between older political elites and the younger generation of power players, maintaining relevance by staying engaged, articulate, and deeply respected across party lines.
James ibOri: The Resilient Power Broker
Former Governor of Delta State, Chief James Ibori, remains one of the most politically significant figures in the Niger Delta and a power broker in Nigeria’s national politics. Despite a controversial past, Ibori’s enduring influence stems from his political machinery, regional dominance, and strategic alliances—especially with Tinubu.
Ibori’s strength lies in his ability to deliver political support in the South-South, particularly Delta and adjoining states. As Tinubu works to broaden his national coalition, Ibori plays the role of bridge-builder—especially among former PDP heavyweights, ex-governors, and oil-region leaders, who still hold sway over key constituencies.
Despite his past legal troubles, Ibori’s political capital remains intact due to his loyalty network, control over grassroots structures, and reputation as a pragmatic negotiator. Tinubu sees in Ibori a man who understands realpolitik and can help navigate the complex politics of oil-producing states.
Ibori is not officially a part of the government, but his reach is felt in appointments, oil sector negotiations, and behind-the-scenes alliance-building. He brings strategic value in regions where Tinubu’s direct influence is weak. In the chessboard of national politics, Ibori is a key regional kingmaker and a resilient survivor.
Oba rilwan akiOlu: Reservoir of Wisdom
The Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, has been one of the long-standing friends and staunch supporters of Tinubu. Oba Akiolu wields a strong influence over the politics as well as the socio-economy of Lagos State. He assumed the throne as the 21st Oba of Lagos in 2003, after the demise of Oba Adeyinka Oyekan. Trained as a lawyer, Oba Akiolu later joined the Nigerian Police Force in 1970 where he served in various capacities until his retirement in 2002 as an Assistant Inspector-General of Police.
Listed among the richest traditional rulers, he is known for his generosity and philanthropic works even beyond Lagos State and the entire Yoruba land. Besides helping thousands of youths to gain employment, the traditional ruler is said to have partnered businesses and individuals to build a health centre on Lagos Island for the benefit of his people.
bisi akande: Ideological Comrade
Chief Bisi Akande, the former Protem National Chairman of the APC, is not just an elder statesman; he is a political godfather whose ideological and personal bond with Tinubu goes back many decades. A former Osun State governor and a respected progressive voice in Nigerian politics, Akande played a foundational role in building the APC coalition that ultimately brought Tinubu to power. His influence stems from his deep roots in the Yoruba political movement and his reputation for integrity and strategic thinking. Akande is widely seen as Tinubu’s moral compass and institutional memory—a man who helped shape the political philosophy of many of today’s leading politicians. He was instrumental in mentoring Tinubu and facilitating his alliances across the southwest and northern Nigeria, especially during the formative years of the APC.
FOla adeOla: The Untired Ideologue
Afolabi Adeola, a business owner, accountant and politician, founded Guarantee Trust Bank (GTB) with his friend, Tayo Aderinokun. He was the bank’s MD/Chief Executive Managing Director and Chief Executive from 1990 to 2002. The bank has since expanded beyond Nigeria to other neighbouring African countries, including The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Ghana and Liberia and in United Kingdom. It was listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange in 1996.
In 2002, Adeola voluntarily retired from Guaranty Trust Bank, after 12 years, handing over to his deputy, Tayo Aderinokun. Since then he has served as the chairman UTC, ARM, Lotus Capital, Eterna Oil, CardinalStone Partners Limited, Tafsan Breweries (board member), and Credit Registry Services.
He is also the founder of FATE foundation, an NGO that caters to budding entrepreneurs and chairman of Main One Cable Company Limited, which completed the construction of an open access submarine cable system that spanned 14,000 kilometres and provides international and internet connectivity to countries on the Atlantic Coast from Portugal to Lagos in 2010.
Oba sikiru adetOna: The Advisor in Crisis
Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona is the current Awujale of Ijebu Kingdom, a prominent first class Oba, who has been on the throne since 1960. This makes him not only one of the longest reigning monarchs in the country, but also one of the highly respected traditional rulers.
Oba Adetona ascended the throne of his ancestors, on April 2, 1960, at the young age of 26. He is well read and a promoter of education, culture, development and Nigeria’s unity. No wonder President Tinubu conferred on him the second highest national title of Grand Commander of the Niger (GCON) during Oba Adetona’s 90th birthday and 64th anniversary on the throne, last year.
Oba Adetona, the Ogbagba ll, is not only bold and fearless, but has been described as one who defied time, politics, and even the evolving notion of traditional rulership. According to one writer, Oba Adetona did not simply inherit the throne; he embodied it, redefined it, and molded it into a symbol of cultural defiance.
To Tinubu, the Ogbagba ll is not just another traditional ruler in Yorubaland and Nigeria, but a preeminent royal father, who has brought honour, integrity, dignity, courage, and impeccable strength of character to the throne over the last 60 years.
TINUBU’S POLITICAL MENTEES
babaJide sanwO-Olu: The Devoted Steward
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu remains one of Tinubu’s most dependable protégés. As governor of Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital and Tinubu’s political birthplace, Sanwo-Olu manages the engine room of Tinubu’s national influence.
His loyalty, policy continuity, and ability to manage Lagos’s complex governance challenges, have kept the state firmly within Tinubu’s control. From infrastructure expansion to security coordination, Sanwo-Olu aligns closely with the presidency’s priorities.
His role extends beyond governance into political coordination across the Southwest. He is both a loyal executor and a strategic buffer, ensuring Lagos continues to project Tinubu’s political and economic dominance on a national scale.
sOlOmOn adeOla: The Handy Man
Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, is a politician and chartered accountant. He currently represents Ogun West Senatorial District in the National Assembly, having assumed office on June 13, 2023. Prior to this, he served as the Senator for Lagos West from 2015 to 2023. He had also been a member of the House of Representatives from 2011 to 2015.
Adeola is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria. He holds a Higher National Diploma in Accounting from the Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo. Before his political career, he worked at The Guardian Newspapers Limited and later founded Sootem Nigeria Limited.
Opeyemi Bamidele: Running Progressive Errands
Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele is a politician, lawyer, and public servant, currently serving as the Majority Leader of the 10th Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Bamidele has held significant positions, including Commissioner for Youth, Sports, and Social Development in Lagos State (2003–2007) and Commissioner for Information and Strategy (2007–2011).
He was elected to the House of Representatives in 2011, representing Ado Ekiti/Irepodun-Ifelodun Federal Constituency, and served as Chairman of the House Committee on Judiciary. In 2019, he was elected Senator for Ekiti Central Senatorial District and re-elected in 2023. His leadership in the Senate has been marked by the passage of 25 bills and the adoption of 115 resolutions within a year.
TINUBU’S POLITICAL MENTEES
Bamidele is considered one of President Bola Tinubu’s closest political mentees. Their relationship spans over three decades, marked by collaboration and mutual support. In fact, the president once openly said he sent him to school abroad.
Bamidele’s relationship with Tinubu began in the early 1990s when he served as Tinubu’s legislative aide during Tinubu’s tenure as a senator representing Lagos West. His many roles thereafter underscored the trust and confidence Tinubu placed in Bamidele’s capabilities.
Tinubu has publicly acknowledged Bamidele as a “trusted protégé,” highlighting his loyalty and dedication to progressive politics. Bamidele, in turn, has consistently supported Tinubu’s political endeavours, including his presidential campaign.
saheed elegushi: Community Caretaker
Oba Alayeluwa Saheed Ademola Elegushi, the Elegushi of Ikate-Elegushi, Kusenla III, is another traditional ruler with links to President Tinubu. Oba Elegushi was handed the staff of office on April 27, 2010, after holding several public offices.
Before his appointment as a traditional ruler, Elegushi served as Personal Assistant and Senior Special Assistant to two former governors Bola Tinubu and Fashola respectively.
The Economics graduate of Lagos State University, between 2000 and 2002, worked as an Administrator, Business Development and Strategy, Elegushi Property Investment Company. He was later appointed as Special Assistant to Tinubu from 2003 to 2007.
When Fashola succeeded Tinubu as Governor of Lagos, Elegushi was appointed again as Senior Special Assistant (Special Programmes/Duties). He was in that position until 2010 when he became the king of Ikateland. He was 34 years old when he ascended the throne, making him the youngest king in Lagos State at the time.
James Faleke: The Adopted Political Son
Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, a politician, business consultant, and community leader, is a member of the House of Representatives, representing Ikeja Federal Constituency in Lagos State.
Faleke began his political journey in 2003 as the pioneer Executive Secretary of Ojodu Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Lagos State. He later served two terms as Chairman of the LCDA from 2004 to 2011 and was Chairman of Conference 57, the association of local government chairmen in Lagos State. In 2011, he was elected to the House of Representatives, where he was re-elected in 2015, 2019, and 2023, making him the first representative in Ikeja Federal Constituency to serve four terms.
TOkunBO aBiru: The Reserve Troop
Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, has represented the Lagos East Senatorial District in the National Assembly since December 2020. Before his legislative career, Abiru served as the Group Managing Director/CEO of Polaris Bank, where he led the successful turnaround of the troubled Skye Bank, a pivotal move in stabilising Nigeria’s financial sector.
He also held the position of Commissioner for Finance in Lagos State from 2011 to 2013, facilitating the issuance of an N80 billion bond that earned the state the EMEA Finance’s Best Local Currency Bond Award for 2012.
In the Senate, Abiru chairs the Committee on Banking, Insurance, and Other Financial Institutions, and was appointed Chairman of the Southern Senators’ Forum in 2024, underscoring his leadership and commitment to national development.
Abiru maintains a close relationship with President Tinubu, rooted in both political alignment and mentorship. He has consistently demonstrated strong support for President Tinubu. He publicly endorsed Tinubu’s presidential candidacy, asserting that only Tinubu had the capacity to confront opposition figures like Atiku Abubakar and secure victory for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 general election.
OmOgBOlahan lawal: Tending the Grassroots
Another strong mentee of President Tinubu is Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, Abisogun II, the 15th Oniru of Iruland, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria. Oba Lawal holds an enviable record of working with all the governors of Lagos State since 1999 till he was handed the staff of office in June 2020, while serving as Commissioner of Agriculture under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
The 55-years-old traditional ruler ventured into the political terrain in 1999 as Aide-de-Camp to the president, when he served as Lagos State Governor. He is a retired Police officer, and beside working with Tinubu, he also served as aide and commissioner to former governors Babatunde Fashola and Akinwunmi Ambode and later Sanwo-Olu.
POLITICAL f I x ER
aBdul’aziz yari: A Fan Without Border
Senator Abdul’aziz Abubakar Yari is one of the most experienced politician and public servant. He currently represents the Zamfara West Senatorial District in the 10th National Assembly and chairs the Senate Committee on Water Resources.
His political journey includes serving two terms as Governor of Zamfara State from 2011 to 2019, during which he also held the position of Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), playing a pivotal role in advocating state interests at the federal level.
Yari’s educational background encompasses studies at Sokoto Polytechnic and Usmanu Danfodiyo University, where he earned qualifications in Secretarial Studies and Public Administration. His leadership is deeply influenced by his Islamic faith and the teachings of his late father, Alhaji Abubakar Yari, which have inspired his commitment to public service .
THE PRESIDENT’S GOVERNORS
aBdulrahman
aBdulrazaq: The Governors’ Governor
Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has some level of influence in the administration of President Tinubu primarily due to his position as the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF).
As Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, AbdulRazaq represents the collective interests of all the 36 state governors, providing a unified voice on national issues and collaborating with the federal government on policy matters.
The President has also acknowledged AbdulRazaq’s contributions, felicitating him on his 64th birthday, which suggests a cordial relationship between the two leaders.
AbdulRazaq has attended significant events with President Tinubu, such as meetings at the State House, Abuja and international trips, demonstrating his involvement in national decision-making processes.
uBa
sani: Securing the Northwest
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, was quick to sell to Tinubu early in the life of his administration, to the extent that he is now with the president as against his benefactor and predecessor, Nasir El-Rufai.
Today, he interacts with the federal government on matters affecting the state and Nigeria as a whole, leveraging their relationship.
For instance, they’ve been working together to address security challenges in Kaduna and the broader North-West region. He has also been engaging with federal initiatives aimed at promoting economic growth, such as investments in infrastructure and industry. There have also been collaboration on programmes related to education, healthcare, and social welfare. As a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Sani participates in party fora and discussions that shape the administration’s policies and decisions.
hOpE uzOdimmA: Tinubu’s Eastern Voice
The Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma, who doubles as Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, is one of the closest to President Bola Tinubu.
It was no wonder that Tinubu attended his second-term inauguration in January 2024, where he reiterated his commitment to national unity and security. This gesture indicated a level of respect and camaraderie between the two leaders.
Uzodimma, as a show of support, has publicly urged Nigerians to carefully review Tinubu’s tax reform bills, believing they aim to harmonise the tax system, promote prudence, and raise revenue for the government. This also suggests that Uzodinma is aligned with some of Tinubu’s policy initiatives.
tOny ElumElu: Nigeria’s Business Face on Global Stage
Mr. Tony Elumelu is a prominent African investor, philanthropist, and business leader. He is the founder and Chairman of Heirs Holdings, a family-owned investment company focused on transforming Africa through long-term investments.
Elumelu also chairs United Bank for Africa (UBA) and Transcorp, Nigeria’s largest quoted conglomerate, and is also founder of The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF).
Elumelu, a key advocate of Africapitalism, a philosophy that encourages the private sector to invest in Africa’s development to drive economic growth and social prosperity, has received numerous awards and accolades, including being named on TIME’s list of the 100 most influential people in the world.
Abdul SAmAd rAbiu: The Spirit of Competition
THE PRESIDENT’S GOVERNORS
dApO AbiOdun: The Bride from Southwest
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State appears to have a funny relationship with the president such that only insiders can tell the extent of their closeness. Yet, there are developments give fillip to their closeness, more so that Tinubu was strategically instrumental to Abiodun’s election.
Nevertheless, President Tinubu has publicly praised Abiodun’s leadership, describing his six-year tenure as a “model of progress” with notable advancements in infrastructure, education, youth empowerment, agriculture, food security, and social development.
Being Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, affords Abiodun access and enables him to collaborate with Tinubu on national issues and policy decisions affecting the southern region.
BUSINESS LEADERS IN HIS CORNER
AlikO dAngOtE: Nigeria First
Alhaji Aliko Dangote remains a prominent Nigerian businessman, philanthropist, and the founder and Chief Executive of the Dangote Group, a major conglomerate in West Africa.
He is known for his successful ventures in cement production, sugar refining, petroleum refinery and other industries, as well as his extensive philanthropic activities.
Dangote maintains a notably close and collaborative relationship with Tinubu. He has credited Tinubu for encouraging him to embark on the refinery project years ago, highlighting the president’s visionary leadership and prompt attention to details as crucial to overcoming various challenges during the project’s development.
Last week, Dangote expressed gratitude to Tinubu for establishing the Lekki Free Trade Zone during his tenure as Lagos State Governor, which laid the groundwork for the refinery’s location.
Under Tinubu’s administration, several policies have been implemented that directly enhanced Dangote’s business ventures. They include the Naira-for-Crude Swap Deal, a strategic move to stabilise the naira and reduce reliance on foreign currency, which has been lauded by Dangote for its positive impact on the Nigerian economy.
Abdul Samad Rabiu is another Nigerian businessman and philanthropist, and founder/Executive Chairman of BUA Group, a diversified conglomerate operating in food, manufacturing, and infrastructure.
Rabiu has met with the President at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on several occasions to discuss several issues, from cement pricing to government’s infrastructure initiatives.
Certainly! Here’s a prose summary of Abdul Samad Rabiu’s business perspective on President Tinubu’s two years in office: Infact, as Tinubu recently marked his second year in office, Rabiu, offered a thoughtful reflection on the administration’s impact from a business standpoint. Rabiu acknowledged that Tinubu’s difficult reforms were necessary to address long-standing economic imbalances that hindered Nigeria’s growth. Importantly, Rabiu emphasised the growing collaboration between the government and the private sector, citing the Presidential Economic Coordination Council (PECC) as a promising platform where key business leaders work alongside policymakers to coordinate economic strategies effectively.
tunJi OlOwOlAfE: The Invincible Reformer
Dr. Tunji Olowolafe, a medical doctor-turned industrialist, is one of Tinubu’s most trusted business and policy allies. Known for his vast business interests and intellectual influence, Olowolafe is a behind-the-scenes strategist who has helped shape key economic policies and private-sector alignments, especially in Lagos during Tinubu’s governorship.
He was central to several public-private partnerships that transformed Lagos’ infrastructure under Tinubu and subsequent administrations. His ability to conceptualise, fund, and manage large-scale projects—especially in health, infrastructure, and power—has made him indispensable in Tinubu’s economic playbook.
Lafe, as he is called, is also seen as an informal policy whisperer, providing high-level input on development, investment strategy, and governance reform. His credibility in the business community gives Tinubu access to elite financial networks, especially in Europe and Asia.
Jim OviA: The Godfather of Banking
Prominent businessman, philanthropist, and author, Jim Ovia, is the founder of Zenith Bank Plc, Nigeria’s tier-1 bank and one of the most profitable financial institutions in the country. He the assumed chairmanship of the bank in 2010. Ovia is the founder of Visafone Communications Limited and the chairman of both the Nigerian Software Development Initiative (NSDI) and the National Information Technology Advisory Council (NITAC).
He is also the founder and chancellor of James Hope University in Lagos. He is a member of the Honorary International Investor Council as well as the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) and Chairman of Cyberspace Network Limited.
In September 2018, Ovia announced the publication of his book: Africa, Rise and Shine, published with ForbesBooks.
In October 2022, Ovia was conferred with the Nigerian national honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) by President Muhammadu Buhari. In March 2025, he was awarded the Freedom of the City of London for his global financial impact. Ovia, undoubtedly, is one of the few business people that the president always calls upon whenever he wants to show off Nigeria’s rich human resource.
Arthur EzE: A Man for All Seasons
Arthur Eze is a billionaire businessman and Chief Executive of Atlas Oranto Petroleum, who is also a philanthropist, politician, and pro-chancellor of Peaceland University in Enugu.
Atlas Oranto Petroleum has grown to become a major player in the Nigerian oil industry. He is known for his philanthropic work, including funding scholarships, building churches, and supporting community development projects across Nigeria.
He is one of the early canvassers for the president and has shied away from publicly endorsing everything that Tinubu does.
THE POWER LIST… THE POWER LIST… THE POWER LIST… BUSINESS LEADERS IN HIS CORNER
aig aigimOukhuede:
Redefining Banking
An investor, banker, and philanthropist, Aig Aig-Imoukhuede, is a co-founder of Tengen Family Office and oversees a wide portfolio of investments in various sectors, including banking, finance, insurance, technology, real estate, and energy.
He was the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive of Access Bank Plc from 2002 to 2013, where he led the bank’s transformation into a leading institution. He is also a key figure in the Africa Initiative for Governance and the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, which focuses on leadership development, public sector transformation, and improving healthcare access in Nigeria.
Aig-Imoukhuede oversees a portfolio of investments in diverse sectors, showcasing a diversified approach to wealth management and business growth. He established the AigImoukhuede Foundation and its subsidiaries to address issues in governance and healthcare.
Benedict Oramah: Nigeria’s Gift to Africa
Prof. Benedict Okey Oramah, who assumed the position of President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the African Export–Import Bank (Afreximbank), on September 21, 2015, has unhindered access to President Tinubu by virtue of his position.
In February 2024, he was invited to an audience at Abuja’s State House with President Tinubu. The meeting was said to have centered on the Bank’s initiatives and financing support to the country.
It also focused on the progress and potential impact on the 500-bed African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE) Abuja, as well as its broader implications for healthcare across Africa. Oramah has played a critical role in driving sustainable development across Africa by mobilising critical funding for major oil, gas, and infrastructure projects.
akinwumi adeSina: The Game Changer
The eighth elected President of the African Development Bank Group (AfDB), Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina, is very close to President Tinubu. Their most recent private meeting took place in January 2025 at the two-day energy summit, hosted by the government of Tanzania in collaboration with the AfDB, and the World Bank Group. The summit saw the adoption of the Dar es Salaam Declaration by 12 African countries.
Adesina was first elected to the position on May 28, 2015 by the Bank’s Board of Governors at its Annual Meetings held in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. He was unanimously re-elected for a second five-year term on August 27, 2020.
Adesina demonstrated that he was a bold reformer, as Minister of Agriculture in Nigeria from 2011 to 2015, and also turned the agriculture sector around within four years.
kOla adeSina: Epitome of Nigerian Dream
One of the few prominent figures in the Nigerian and African energy landscape, who has unfettered access to President Bola Tinubu is Mr. Kola Adesina. Tinubu had in March 2024 appointed Adesina into the Presidential Economic Coordination Council alongside other private sector business tycoons like Dangote, Elumelu and Abdulsamad Rabiu, among others.
Adesina is the Group Managing Director of Sahara Group, a leading international energy and infrastructure conglomerate. He was one of the private investors that acquired the Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company (IEDC), now Ikeja Electric, and the Egbin Power Generating Company, now Egbin Power Plc.
He was the chairman of Egbin Power Plc and currently the board chairman of Ikeja Electric, Nigeria’s largest power distribution company.
Tinubu recently acknowledged Adesina’s contributions to national development in a congratulatory message sent to him when an honorary doctoral degree was bestowed on him by the University of Lagos (UNILAG). His relationship with the president is without questions.
Segun agBaje: The Suave Banker
Mr. Segun Agbaje is also one of the few privileged private sector business tycoons, who has a rich access to President Tinubu. In March 2024, Tinubu appointed him into the PECC in a strategic move to bolster the nation’s economic governance frameworks and ensure robust and coordinated economic planning and implementation.
Agbaje is the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO), the Lagos-based financial powerhouse and multinational financial services group. He is also a director of MasterCard Advisory Board for Middle East and Africa.
He has led GTCO to deliver record-breaking financial results, which peaked in 2024 when the bank recorded $661.3 million profit, from the $350.84 million earned in 2023, driven by higher income and cost efficiency.
This development prompted its directors to recommend the highest dividend ever declared by a Nigerian bank—N206.9 billion ($134.4 million). He joined the Guarantee Trust Bank (GTB) as a pioneer staff member in 1991 and has served as the GCEO of GTCO since 2021. He had served as auditor with Ernst & Young LLP from 1988 to 1990 before joining GTBank. He enjoys great recognition by the president, largely from a professional standpoint.
ngOzi OkOnjO-iweala: The Unblemished Ambassador
The seventh Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Okonjo-Iweala, has been close to nearly all the presidents since the time of former President Olusegun Obasanjo. It is, therefore, not strange that she has access to Tinubu and other world leaders by virtue of her influential position and accomplishments.
Okonjo-Iweala was one of the early visitors to the Aso Villa in Abuja at the early life of Tinubu’s administration, where she discussed with the president ways to create jobs for young people and support women and children, whom she said bore the brunt of the suffering in the country.
The August 2023 meeting at Aso Villa was held two months after both leaders had met in France at the Global Pact Summit in Paris hosted by President Emmanuel Macron. She assumed office on March 1, 2021, becoming the first woman and the first African to serve as Director General.
amina j. mOhammed: Nigerian Made, Global Brand
A former Minister of Environment, Amina J. Mohammed, is the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations and Chair of the United Nations Sustainable Development Group. These positions are natural access to President Tinubu.
During her two-day official visit to Nigeria in January 2025, she met with Tinubu at the State House in Abuja, where they discussed key issues of regional stability and development.
As Nigeria’s Minister of Environment during former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, she steered the country’s efforts on climate action and efforts to protect the natural environment.
She first joined the United Nations in 2012 as Special Adviser to former Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. She was tasked with the responsibility for post-2015 development planning, a process that resulted in global agreement around the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the creation of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Samaila zuBairu: The Solution Provider
The President and Chief Executive Officer of Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), Africa’s leading infrastructure solutions provider, Samaila Zubairu, has held the position since he assumed office in July 2018. This strategic position gives him access to President Tinubu.
Before he joined the AFC, he was the pioneer Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for Dangote Cement Plc, where he was credited with the launching of Africa’s largest syndicated project finance facility for a local corporation.
Zubairu also managed the watershed unbundling of Dangote Industries Limited to listed subsidiaries on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE). He has mobilised billions of dollars into transformative infrastructure over three decades of leadership.
Under his leadership, AFC has raised investments to about $15 billion, including the biggest renewable energy acquisition on the continent.
Gamin G Week
Edited by nseobonG okon-ekonG | gamingweek1117@gmail.com
Why Banks Are Still Nervous About Crypto, Gambling and Why That Might Change Soon
Despite the booming growth of sports betting and the increasing adoption of cryptocurrencies, most traditional banks continue to tread carefully—if not outright avoid—facilitating transactions that link the two, writes Davidson Abraham
At the core of banks’ hesitation are anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) obligations. Cryptocurrency transactions, particularly those involving decentralised or pseudonymous wallets, can be challenging to trace. The reasons are rooted in risk management, regulatory compliance, and concerns about reputation.
This lack of visibility exposes banks to potential risks of money laundering, fraud, and terrorist financing. Even when users pass KYC checks on betting platforms or fintech apps, banks are still liable for ensuring that the source and destination of funds are legitimate.
Another major concern is regulatory uncertainty. In countries like the United States, various agencies—such as the SEC, FinCEN, and OCC—have yet to release unified guidelines on how cryptocurrency betting should be handled. Without a clear regulatory framework, banks fear becoming entangled in investigations or facing sanctions for processing transactions that could be deemed high-risk.
Many banks have, therefore, opted to block or flag gambling-related crypto payments, especially when tied to known betting platforms or wallets.
However, pressure is mounting for this
cautious stance to evolve. Fintech disruptors like MoonPay, BitPay, and Crypto.com Pay are stepping in to handle crypto payments for sportsbooks, ensuring real-time AML/KYC compliance and offering seamless fiat conversions. Their ability to mitigate risk—while still delivering speed and innovation—has made them attractive partners for both users and betting platforms.
Furthermore, consumer demand is growing.
In regulated U.S. states like Colorado and New Jersey, users are increasingly expecting fast and flexible deposit options, including those involving cryptocurrency. Fintechs are capitalizing on this shift, and banks risk being left behind if they don’t adapt.
Additionally, new blockchain analytics tools—such as Chainalysis or Elliptic—are making it easier to track cryptocurrency transactions and assess wallet risk levels. As these tools improve, banks may gain the confidence to re-enter the crypto betting space cautiously.
In summary, while banks remain risk-averse today, technology, regulatory clarity, and market competition may soon force a change. What was once seen as a threat could become a well-regulated opportunity—if approached with the right compliance tools.
Gradual Digitization of Nigeria’s Lottery
Industry and Green Lotto’s Place in It
Pre-pandemic, Green Lotto recorded an online revenue of about five per cent, which has since swung up to over 30 per cent today. The surge reflects a deeper transformation and long-term goal of the pan-Nigerian company, established in 2016, report Nseobong Okon-Ekong and Iyke Bede
For years, Nigeria’s lottery industry crept toward digitization, first with machines replacing written paper slips, then with mobile payments and USSD codes chipping away at cash transactions.
When COVID-19 accelerated the shift, Green Lotto, like its competitors, saw online demand spike. However, unlike many, the company had spent years refining its own tech stack: in-house servers, a proprietary gaming engine, a fintech arm known as NowNow, and agent training programs designed to synchronise street sales with digital growth.
Today, its online revenue hovers at 30 per cent, up from just five per cent pre-pandemic. According to
the COO of Green Lotto, Sandeep Natu, the surge reflects a deeper transformation and long-term goal of the pan-Nigerian company, established in 2016 and expanding gradually in physical terms while doubling down on its online presence.
“The most exciting part is to have that satisfaction come from the customer that the product that you have produced and delivered is to his liking,” Natu revealed to GAMING WEEK, explaining the level of detail that goes into designing products that provide a seamless experience for the punters. Natu, a technical graduate with a master’s degree in IT and telecommunications, whose first contact with the industry was through Green Lotto, takes
How Velex Advisory Connects African Gaming Regulators
up every product development as a passion project. This was evident in the enthusiastic manner in which he talked about the relaunch of their website to a more advanced format.
“People don’t realise that most of the lottery operation, about 80 per cent, is IT. Because you have the app, you have the servers, you have the gaming engine, everything runs on a software. So it was almost as if I learned on the job,” said Natu. Headquartered in Lagos and supported by a growing team of over a hundred professionals, the three-storey building it operates from is a tightly run ecosystem. The ground floor offers only a glimpse, home to studios for live draws, agent onboarding areas, and the digital support team that manages its website and social media. The upper levels house the administrative functions, with one floor dedicated entirely to NowNow.
Given the scale of operations and the volume of transactions observed at the backend, Natu regards Green Lotto as one of the top three lottery operators in the country.
He acknowledged, however, that attaining such a position was no easy feat, particularly as the company entered a market dominated by well-established indigenous brands. He attributed much of its rapid growth to a technology-driven strategy that has enhanced its visibility and enabled it to capture a significant share of the betting market.
sandeep natu
Gaming regulators from across africa at the just concluded GTsa in nairobi, kenya
FIRST LADY CUTS TAPE TO INAUGURATE NEWLY CONSTRUCTED MEGA TECHNICAL COLLEGE...
L–R: Wife of the Deputy President of the Senate, Hajia Laila Barau; Wife of the Vice President,
Nigeria’s
Mbah; and his wife, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah, as the First Lady cut a tape to commission the state’s newly constructed mega Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College, at GTC, Enugu, during her two-day working visit to Enugu… recently
Oshiomhole Petitions Aviation Minister over Alleged Extortion of Passengers by Airlines
Denies disrupting Air Peace operations in Lagos
Chinedu Eze and Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
Chairman, Senate Committee on Interior, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, has petitioned Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, over alleged extortion of passengers by some airlines at the country’s airports.
Oshiomhole also denied allegations of disrupting the operations of Air Peace yesterday at the Murtala Mohammed Airport in Lagos.
He clarified that his insistence that he should not be treated differently from other frustrated passengers led to the falsehood narrative against him.
The senator said he stood up against systemic extortion and poor customer service by the Nigerian airlines.
Air Peace had issued a statement where it accused Oshiomhole of allegedly disrupting airport operations after missing a scheduled flight.
The airline alleged that Oshiomhole had arrived late for Flight P47120, which was scheduled to depart for Abuja at 6:30am.
However, briefing journalists in Abuja, the senator representing Edo North said his recent experiences with Air Peace highlighted the growing impunity and disregard for passengers’ rights in the country’s aviation sector.
He told journalists that he had already written a comprehensive report of his experience to the minister, who, according to him, had assured him that he would probe the matter.
The former governor of Edo State showed documentary evidence and videos about how airlines were frustrating passengers at the airport, which he said had been forwarded to the minister for necessary action.
Oshiomhole explained that he had arrived the airport at 6:10pm for a 6:50pm flight on Tuesday, but was denied a boarding pass, even though he had met the airline’s check-in deadline of 30 minutes before departure.
He stated, “Yesterday, (Tuesday), I got to the airport 40 minutes ahead. My luggage was already checked in. They told me they had stopped issuing boarding passes. Meanwhile, I saw others arriving after me who were allowed to board,
“Despite holding business class tickets for myself and an aide, who was allowed to board, I was turned back.”
He lamented the arbitrary application of airline policies, which he said left him with a hotel bill of N1.5 million to accommodate himself and two stranded Ghanaian passengers.
Attempting to fly with Air Peace the next morning, Oshiomhole said he
“arrived before 6:00am for a 6:30am flight, having checked in online by 9pm, the previous night.”
The senator said he was again denied boarding, alongside other passengers who were confused by a last-minute change in check-in policy from 30 to 45 minutes before departure. Oshiomhole stated, “I got there about five minutes past six. They told me the counter was closed. I told them, ‘No, I’ve already checked in.’ I showed them the evidence of my online check-in. Even before then, they had asked if I had checked in, and I told them, yes, and that I had no luggage.
“They looked at it but still said the
First Lady: Why Tinubu Supports Leaders Like Gov Mbah
Inaugurates Technical and Vocational College in Enugu
First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has explained President Bola Tinubu’s support for Governor Peter Mbah’s administration in Enugu State, saying her husband would always support leaders who judiciously deploy public funds for the common good of the people.
Mrs. Tinubu made the revelation during the commissioning of the Technical, Vocational Education and Training College, GTC, Enugu, on the sidelines of her just-concluded two-day working visit to Enugu State.
Governor Mbah’s administration inherited a highly dilapidated Government Technical College, GTC, Enugu, which it demolished about 11 months ago to erect a Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College comprising twentyfour ultra-modern skill training centres and massive hostels for 1,000 resident students.
The government equally built two Smart Green Schools in the quite expansive premises.
Speaking during the commissioning, Senator Tinubu, who noted the increased federal allocations accruing to the states under Tinubu’s administration, stressed the need for leaders to deploy the resources in the service of the people.
Her words: “I am really excited. Like some critics will say that Mr. President is really in support of the governor here. Now your allocation has tripled. The president will be happy to associate with the people, who are using the resources of this nation judiciously. And this is part of it. And we are excited.
“The slogan for Enugu state is ‘Tomorrow is Here’ and tomorrow is indeed here. This is just a glimpse of a better tomorrow that our children and even generations yet unborn will
enjoy.”
In his remark, Governor Mbah said the project was the first of the eight Technical, Vocational Education and Training Colleges meant for each of the eight federal constituencies of the state to equip the youth with skills to shape the future.
He explained his government decided to break away from the outdated system of memorisation to experiential learning, stressing that no nation could be greater than its human capital.
Mbah said with the TVETs and other modern post-basic education schools being built, graduates of Green Smart Schools would sustain their upward trajectory in experiential and smart learning.
“So, today is a great day for us. It is a launch further into our vision to transform education in Enugu State. We are profoundly honoured and
Tinubu Administration Boasts Infrastructure Development Across Nigeria, Says Goronyo
The Minister of State for Works, Bar-
praised President Ahmed Bola
administration for restoring confidence in governance through the provision of critical infrastructure needed for economic growth. Goronyo made the assertion while addressing journalists at his residence in Sokoto, highlighting the administration’s achievements in its two years in office.
He explained that the government has prioritized infrastructural development, particularly road construction, which has been equitably distributed across the six geo-political zones of the country. According to Goronyo, the administration inherited over 360 uncompleted road projects across the country, but has since made significant progress in completing these projects.
He cited several examples of ongoing and completed projects,
including the Lagos-Calabar coastal road, Illela-Sokoto-Badagry road, Abuja-Kaduna-Kano road, and the Makurdi-Enugu-Ebonyi-BenueNasarawa-Jos-Bauchi-Gombe road network.
Goronyo also highlighted the construction of the Jimeta-Numan bridge in Adamawa State and the collaboration between the Ministry of Works and the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) to prevent insurgency from disrupting road projects.
delighted that you were able to make out time to commission the TVET, Government Technical College,” he stated.
Giving further insight into the project, the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ndubueze Mbah, said TVETs were geared towards empowering the youth with skills and knowledge in response to emerging industry needs.
“The new GTC, Enugu, includes an ICT and Digital Innovation Hub, Renewable Energy, Weldieng and Fabrication, Auto-Mechatronics, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning,
Electrical Installation, Fashion Design and Garment Making, Hospitality Training, and others equipped with twenty-four ultra-modern skill training centres.
“It is supported by two massive modern hostels accommodating 1,000 resident students. The new GTC, Enugu, is a milestone realisation of an audacious vision, that enables a transition from the Enugu Smart Green Schools, into professional workforce and masterful skills development for the youth of Enugu State,” Prof. Mbah explained.
gate had been closed. Meanwhile, I noticed they were still taking other people in. So I asked, ‘How can you close boarding for a 6:30 flight at 6:05? What is the purpose of online check-in, then?’
“If I had to go through another check-in process, then what’s the point of checking in online? While speaking to them, I saw many men and women who had been there even before me, with similar experiences.
“Basically, they were selling tickets on the spot at higher prices. I’ll give you an example. A lady bought her ticket for N146,000 online. She arrived at the airport at 5:55am for the 6:30am flight, after the gatemen had delayed her.
“They told her she was late and that the counter had closed for check-in. She said that was impossible, as it wasn’t even 6:00am.
“They told her she would be put on the next flight. She protested, saying, ‘Why? Put me on this flight.’ But they told her the flight was full and she would have to wait.
“Meanwhile, the airline was selling tickets on the spot for N250,000. To take advantage of the situation, they discouraged those who had bought tickets online at lower rates and sold to people willing to pay more.
“I was told the counter had closed. But people were still being allowed to buy new tickets at higher prices.
“Those of us who had booked online for N146,000 were told we were late, while they sold new tickets for N250,000. That is not policy enforcement, it is extortion.”
World Day Against Child Labour: FIDA Badagry Demands Stronger Enforcement, National Reforms
As the global community commemorates World Day Against Child Labour, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Badagry Branch, has called for immediate, multi-sectoral action by government, civil society, private sector, and international partners to strengthen enforcement of existing laws, prosecute violators and adopt national policies that will address poverty and social inequality.
Lady Edith Uduji, Chairperson of FIDA Nigeria Badagry Branch, who made this known in a statement, stressed the need to ensure universal, barrier-free access to quality education, increased public awareness about the dangers and illegality of
child labour, as well as expansion of the economic support programs for vulnerable families to reduce dependency on child income.
“The continued use of children for labour is a national crisis that demands urgent and coordinated action. These children are being denied their basic rights to education, protection and to a future,” she stated.
This year’s theme - ‘Progress is Clear, But There’s More to Do: Let’s Speed up Efforts’ - she noted, reflects both the progress achieved and the urgency to intensify action to meet global targets.
She stressed that while some progress has been made, the implementation and enforcement of child protection laws are critically
weak, especially in informal sectors like agriculture and domestic work where children are often invisible to legal oversight. Despite a comprehensive set of national laws and international treaties aimed at eradicating child labour, Uduji noted millions of Nigerian children remain trapped in exploitative and hazardous work. She said enforcement mechanisms are deeply flawed, while expressing concern that legal protections often do not reach the most vulnerable children due to severe shortage of trained labour inspectors, weak institutional capacity in rural and informal areas, cultural acceptance of child work and absence of birth registration and identity documentation.
Hajia Nana Shettima;
First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu; Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter
Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto
rister Muhammad Bello Goronyo, has
Tinubu’s
Funmi Ogundare
UN TOURISM REGIONAL COMMISSION FOR AFRICA 2025 MEETING...
L-R: Former Minister for Information and National Orientation, Mr Lai Muhammed; Minister for Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative
Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr Idris Aregbe; and Secretary General,
Northern Elders to FG: Exclusion of North from Infrastructure Devt Unacceptable
Assert major roads abandoned, allege region schemed out
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
Northern elders under the auspices of Northern Elders Forum, NEF, Wednesday told the President Bola Tinubu-led administration that it is unacceptable to exclude Northern Nigeria from infrastructural development.
In a statement tagged ‘Northern Nigeria’s Exclusion from Critical Road and Rail Infrastructure Funding: A National Failure Demanding Immediate Redress,’ signed NEF Spokesperson, Prof Abubakar Jika Jiddere, described the federal government’s recently approved allocation of funds for some road projects in the country as “lopsidedness in the allocation of funds to the disadvantage of the North.”
Jiddere accused the federal government of the recent pattern of capital investment, which reveals a troubling regional imbalance that heavily favours Southern Nigeria, while ignoring the urgent infrastructure needs of the North.
He said: “The Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) has recently approved the allocation of funds for some road projects in the country. The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has observed with dismay the lopsidedness in the allocation of funds to the disadvantage of the North generally and the North East in particular.
“This amounts to the systematic exclusion of Northern Nigeria in the
allocation of federal infrastructure funding, particularly in road and railway development and the NEF is gravely concerned about it.
“The recent pattern of capital investment reveals a troubling regional imbalance that heavily favours Southern Nigeria, while ignoring the urgent infrastructure needs of the North, especially the North East, which remains the most fragile and underserved part of the country.
“While the government points to projects such as the Abuja–Kano Expressway (N252 billion) and the Wusasa–Jos Road (N18 billion) in the North Central and North West as evidence of inclusion, these are insufficient and largely tokenistic when compared to the massive allocations directed to Southern states.
“The following are just a few examples of the regional disparity in current federal infrastructure allocations: Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway – N1.344 trillion
“It is important to note that some of these projects, like the Lokoja–Benin Road, often listed as a Northern project, merely passes through Lokoja, which is being utilized as a logistical corridor to the South.
“This shows how the North’s geography is exploited to facilitate Southern trade and transport, with no corresponding developmental invest-
ments in the Northern region itself.
“Meanwhile, the North East, devastated by terrorism and chronic underdevelopment, is entirely excluded from these high-value federal road projects.
“Critically deteriorated highways that demand immediate attention include: Jalingo–Numan–Yola–Bama; Bauchi–Gombe Road; Gombe–Maiduguri through Biu, Gombi, Mubi, Madagali; and Gwoza Damaturu–Gashua–Gaidam–Damasak–Gubio.
of railway projects
The major high-way linking Nasarawa-Benue Taraba – Adamawa, and Borno State.
“In North Central and North West, essential roads such as Birnin Gwari–Ilorin, Minna–Bida, Kaduna–Jos via Saminaka, and Kaduna–Minna via Sarkin Pawa continue to deteriorate after decades of federal neglect.”
The NEF also asserted the federal government has side-lined the North from railway infrastructure, “Equally disturbing is the deteriorating state
of Nigeria’s railway infrastructure, particularly in the Northern region.
“Most notably, the eastern rail line extending to Maiduguri (North East) a route linking Port Harcourt–Enugu–Makurdi–Lafia–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe–Maiduguri, has remained inactive for over a decade, with operations effectively halted for 10 -15 years. This line once served as a vital economic artery for cargo and passenger movement across the Northern corridor.
Food Security: AbdulRazaq Distributes 16 Tractors, Farm Inputs to Council Chairmen, Farmers in Kwara
Hammed Shittu in Ilorin
To further boost food security in Kwara State, the state governor, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has distributed 16 additional tractors to all chairmen of the 16 local government areas in the state for public access towards enhancing food production for the people.
Also, the governor distributed farm inputs as part of the Kwara ACreSAL initiative, underscoring the government’s commitment to agricultural revolution.
Some of the items distributed included 16 tractors; 32,000 kg maize
Eight Nigerian Varsities in ECOWAS Court’s Moot Competition
Olugbode
Eight Nigerian universities are competing in the inaugural edition of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Court Moot Court Competition. The ivory towers in the competition are: American University, Yola; Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, University of Nigeria, Nsukka; Igbinedion University, Okada; Lagos State University, Ojo, University of Jos, Jos; Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, and University of Uyo, Uyo.
According to the President of the Court, Hon. Justice Ricardo Claudio Monteiro Gonclaves, the objectives of the competition is to familiarize participants with the ECOWAS Court’s role in regional governance and its contribution
to the protection of human rights and economic integration; enhance advocacy, research, and analytical skills among law students; promote the Court’s visibility and engage the public in understanding its importance in the ECOWAS region; and provide a platform for students, academics, and legal professionals to connect and share ideals.
The expected outcomes from the moot competition, according to the President, are: Increased awareness among students about the ECOWAS Court’s operations and contributions; enhanced advocacy and legal reasoning skills among participants; stronger ties between the ECOWAS Court and academic institutions in Nigeria; and a more informed and engaged future generation of legal practitioners in West Africa.
Speaking on the competition at the opening of the inaugural event in Niger State, the President said it is an important milestone in the strengthening of legal culture and regional integration within the Economic Community of West African States.
He said: “Since its establishment, the ECOWAS Court has stood at the forefront of promoting regional integration, advancing human rights, and strengthening the rule of law across West Africa.
“As Community’s the principal judicial organ of ECOWAS, the Court’s mandate spans the interpretation and application of Community texts, adjudication of human rights disputes, and the resolution of conflicts between member states and ECOWAS institutions.”
seeds (1,600 bags); 18,000 kg rice seeds (Faro 44) – 360 bags; 10,800 kg of soyabean seeds (TGX 1951)– 270 bags; Inoculant (720 sachets); 5,040 bags of NPK fertilizer (20:10:10); 5,040 bags of urea fertilizer; 720 bags of SSP fertilizer and 2,100 pre-emergence herbicides for maize (Atrazine).
Others included 720 herbicides for rice (Butaforce); 2,880 herbicides for soyabeans (Butaforce); 4,320 post emergence herbicides for maize (Striker); 7,200 post emergence herbicides for rice (Rice Force); 720 post-emergence herbicides for soyabeans (Legume Force); and 2,480 knapsack sprayers.
Speaking in Ilorin during the handing-over of the tractors and farm inputs, the governor said the gesture was part of the commitment
of the present administration to ensure food security in the state.
Represented at the event by the State Commissioner for Agriculture, and Rural Development, the governor said: “Today marks another milestone in the history of Kwara State as we are deploying the tractors to all the 16 local government areas for the benefit of our farmers, especially the women and youth in farming”.
Alhaji AbdulRazaq further said:
“We are also going to distribute farm inputs as initiated again for the benefit of our farmers,” adding that further distribution of farm inputs will be done in the coming weeks.
He said the ministry will synergize with the council chairmen and leadership of the state farmers support and welfare committee to
monitor the distribution of inputs and ensure the items get to farmers at the grassroots level.
“These 16 tractors are specifically coming from the state government and will be supervised by the ministry in partnership with the state committee on support and welfare for farmers,” he said.
Also speaking on behalf of the Council Chairmen, led by the ALGON Chairman, Hon. Abubakar Abdullahi Danladi; members of the Kwara State Farmers Support and Welfare Committee; and other key stakeholders appreciated the interventions.
Hon. Danladi appreciated the state government for the gesture and assured that the trust that the administration has placed in the local authorities will not be misplaced.
Edo PDP Carpets State Govt over Planned Demolition of Reps Member’s House, Others in Guise of Fighting Cultism
Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City
The Edo State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has criticised the state government for marking the residence of a serving House of Representatives member for demolition.
Onobun, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmaker representing Esan West/Esan Central/Igueben Federal Constituency, was alleged to have convened a gathering of suspected cultists at his home in
Iruekpen, Esan West Local Government Area.
Consequently, the government marked Onobun’s house for demolition over allegations of hosting a cult meeting, an accusation he has strongly denied and labelled as politically motivated.
The allegations emerged amid a resurgence of cult-related violence in the community and the arrival of Edo government officials at the lawmaker’s residence on Tuesday and marked the property for demolition.
Reacting to the development, the PDP described Edo government action as an act of intimidation to suppress the opposition and coerce citizens into silence.
In a statement on Wednesday, signed by the Chairman, Edo PDP Caretaker Committee, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, and made available to journalists said the Senator Monday Okpebholo-led administration in the state has continued its trend of oppression, tyranny, and intimidation of citizens.
Economy, Hon. Hannatu Musa Musawa; Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on
UN Tourism, Zurab Pololikashvili, at the 68th Meeting of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa 2025, in Abuja... recently
Michael
in Abuja
Ojude
Oba Festival...
L-R: Divisional Head, Corporate Affairs, First City Monument Bank, Mr. Diran Olojo; Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun; and Olori Kemi Adetona, wife of the Awujale of Ijebuland, at the Ojude Oba Festival in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State...recently
Lagos LG Poll Preparatory Ground for Tinubu’s Re-election, Sanwo-Olu Declares
Inaugurates
segun james
newly completed council secretariat, roads in Ibeju Lekki, flags off council’s housing scheme
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said the local government elections scheduled for next month would to be a preparatory
ground for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election.
Sanwo-Olu called on residents of the state to demonstrate their loyalty to the president and All Progressives Congress (APC)
by using the local government elections to show their support for Tinubu.
The local government election in Lagos State is slated for July 12. Sanwo-Olu made the call at the
commissioning of the new IbejuLekki local government secretariat complex, legislative building, and 400 metres paved road, as well as the ground-breaking of the Ibeju-Lekki Housing Scheme.
French Govt Canvasses Collaboration to Protect Oceans from Plastic Threat
As ActionAid urges Nigerians to exploit billion Dollars plastic waste industry
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The French government wants Nigeria, the rest of Africa and the global community to mobilise resources, policies and collaboration to protect the oceans from the dangers of plastic waste.
The French Deputy Ambassador to Nigeria, Jean-François Hasperue, made the call on Wednesday in Abuja during a plastic waste awareness programme at the French Institute.
Hasperue said the call for a united front to tackle the challenge became necessary because plastic waste has become one of the most pressing environmental crises facing the globe, with oceans bearing the brunt of the escalating threat.
In a related development, ActionAid Nigeria (AAN) has called on Nigerians to tap into the billion dollars plastic waste industry.
The call was made on Wednesday in Abuja by the Country Director, ActionAid Nigeria, Andrew Mamedu at the “Beat Plastic Pollution Innovation Day” in commemoration of World Environment Day.
Mamedu, who was represented by Chair of ActionAid Nigeria Young People’s Forum, Favour Ikpe, while noting that currently, Nigeria generates 2.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, urged Nigeria to tap into the billion-dollar plastic waste economy.
Meanwhile, the French Deputy Ambassador to Nigeria, Jean-François Hasperue explained that from floating debris to microplastics embedded in marine organisms, the evidence of damage on the oceans has been overwhelming.
He said: ‘’Our panelists were explaining that the microplastics that are eaten by fish in the lagoon of Lagos might be eaten by people in Asia because fish have been taken by foreign boats and sold everywhere in the world.
“So yes, it’s a global issue that we need to address. And there is one specific issue, of course, we decided to address within the UN conference in Nice, is the one of biodiversity beyond national jurisdictions.
“Because it has been for too many years, a gap in which we have not been able to raise cooperation among
countries to save these biggest parts of the oceans.
“And I expect that we will announce that we have reached the 60 signatories for ratification by the end of this week. So, the BBNG will be able to be implemented starting the 1st of January 2026.”
According to Mr. Hasperue, the French government is raising awareness in Nigeria particularly in Nigerian universities as part of global strategy to build capacity of students and also to rally support for empowering global local communities.
He said: “We are part of a global strategy of France, because of course we would like to act at different level. We act first globally, and that’s why we decided to welcome the UN Conference on Ocean, which is actually happening in Nice from the June 9th to the 13th this very week.
“And that’s why in the wake of this global conference, we wanted here in Nigeria and in Abuja to organise at our level a debate, but not only a debate here, but activities all over the month of June.
“And we had not less than 11 activities happening in six different states in Nigeria, first of all to raise awareness in Nigeria, but also to rally support for empowering global local communities.”
Hasperue underscored the importance of the UN Ocean Conference to addressing the dangers of plastic waste on oceans, noting that awareness creation remains very critical to ending the menace.
He added that: “We have to take into consideration that plastic, although it has been a solution at some point of history, that it has been now so massive, so huge, that it has become a problem.
The event took place on Wednesday at the newly built council secretariat.
Sanwo-Olu stated, “You know that everything we are doing fosters around creation of jobs, and increase in internal revenue of the local government.
“And we believe it will promote orderly rural development, which eventually will preserve the dignity and well-being of the community.”
The governor had Tuesday reaffirmed his support and loyalty to Tinubu following a truce between the two political figures.
Taking to his official handle on X, the governor shared a message of solidarity after accompanying Tinubu as he departed Lagos for Abuja after the Eid-el-Kabir holidays.
Sanwo-Olu stated, “Today, I accompanied His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and saw him off as he departed Lagos following the Sallah break.
“I remain dedicated to supporting his efforts and policies, which aim to bring real and lasting change to the lives of Nigerians.
“I wish him safe travels and
Otu Signs Nine Bills into Law, as CRSHA Endorses Him for Second Term UNYF Knocks Underwhelming
bassey inyang in Calabar
In a bold legislative stride aimed at repositioning Cross River State for inclusive growth, the state governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has signed nine bills into law.
At the ceremony where Otu signed the bills, members of the Cross River State House of Assembly led by their Speaker, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, endorsed the governor for a second term in office ahead of May 29, 2027, when he would have completed
his first term in office. Ayambem said the state’s lawmakers unanimously endorsed Otu for second term due to what they described as his sterling performance in his first two years in office, hence members had passed a motion to that effect.
The nine bills signed into law by the governor span critical sectors such as water, health, security, infrastructure, and environmental research, reflecting the administration’s push to modernize state governance and address pressing
developmental needs.
The new laws promulgated by Otu are, The Cross River State Water Supply and Sanitation Law No. 5, 2025”, which guarantees citizens’ access to basic water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services. It also sets up a regulatory framework for the sector;
“The Cross River State Fire Fighting and Rescue Service Law No. 4, 2024,” which enhances emergency response operations and contributes to increasing the state’s internally generated revenue;
success in all his engagements. As always, Lagos stands ready to play its part in building the Nigeria we all hope for.”
Speaking in Yoruba, which was translated to English, on the forthcoming local council poll, Sanwo-Olu stated, “The local government election is coming, it’s just one month away. I want you to use the election to prove your worth so that by 2027, it will be a smooth sail for Mr. President.”
Earlier, the council chairman, Hon Abdullahi Olowa said, “When we assumed office in mid-2021, we inherited the urgent task of building a new and modern council secretariat following the unfortunate tragedy that befell our local government a year earlier in 2020 when Endsars vandals burnt down the existing structures within the secretariat.” He pointed out that his administration took up the responsibility of restoring the local government’s machinery of governance from the scratch.
“Today, by the grace of God, we have not only rebuilt but have also elevated these structures into modern, world-class facilities,” Olowa said.
youth participation, electoral reforms to drive
As Nigeria prepares to mark Democracy Day on June 12, 2025, the Unified Nigeria Youth Forum (UNYF) has raised concerns over what it describes as the country’s underwhelming progress despite 26 years of uninterrupted democratic governance.
The forum said that although Nigeria has enjoyed democratic stability since 1999, that achievement has not translated into tangible development in key sectors, urging a more proactive youth-led political movement ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a press statement issued on Wednesday, UNYF President, Comrade Toriah Olajide Filani, decried the country’s stagnation in sectors such as mining, health, agriculture, security, and power, noting that “the dividends of democracy have been unevenly distributed despite ballooning FAAC allocations.”
“We stand on the cusp of another Democracy Day, marking 26 years since
the return to democratic governance. But we must confront a difficult truth: has this system truly delivered on its promise to uplift the lives of the Nigerian people?
“While we celebrate the absence of military rule, we cannot ignore the fact that uninterrupted democracy alone is insufficient. We need to see tangible improvements in the lives of our citizens,” Filani said.
Filani called attention to persistent issues in the mining sector where illegal operations continue despite significant government investment.
He also lamented the dilapidated state of healthcare, insufficient agricultural support, worsening security challenges, and the continued failure of the power sector to drive economic growth.
UNYF further emphasized the urgency of youth inclusion in governance, urging young Nigerians to begin the process of identifying and backing a credible youth candidate for the 2027 presidential election.
“The time for complacency is over,” he
said. “We must seek out and support a young, visionary leader who understands the challenges facing our generation and possesses the courage and competence to lead Nigeria toward a brighter future.”
The forum also renewed its advocacy for far-reaching electoral reforms aimed at deepening democratic practices and fostering citizen trust in Nigeria’s electoral system.
Among the proposed reforms is the electronic transmission of results from polling centers, which the forum believes will significantly reduce electoral disputes and boost transparency.
It also called for the mandatory use of card readers to authenticate voters and eliminate vote manipulation and identity fraud during elections.
UNYF proposed the use of designated schools rather than open streets for conducting elections, arguing that such a move would offer better security, reduce ballot snatching, and protect electoral materials from manipulation.
Folalumi alaran in Abuja
LASEPA’S 2025 CAPACity BuiLding for EnvironmEntAL ConSuLtAntS...
L-R: Principal Consultant, Carbon Limits Nigeria,Mr. James Ogunleye; Managing
Research and
for Environmental
and Facilities,
Amaechi: Why I Joined Anti-Tinubu Forces
Former Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Amaechi, has explained why he formed an opposition alliance to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general election, citing worsening economic hardship in the country.
Amaechi, a chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and former governor of Rivers State, made the comments in an interview with the BBC.
He lamented the current state of the country and said efforts were ongoing to form a political coalition that could bring about real change.
Amaechi said while he had not ruled out running for president again, only time would tell whether he would contest in 2027.
His remarks came less than a month after APC leaders endorsed Tinubu as the party’s sole candidate
for the 2027 presidential election.
However, Amaechi maintained his loyalty to the party but insisted that being a party member did not mean blind support for the government.
“If the government is failing the country, you don’t just go along because you’re in the same party. You know that’s not right,” he said.
Amaechi said the responsible thing was to tell the government the truth and express the expectations of Nigerians.
He decried rising hunger and poverty in the country, narrating how he recently came across a corpse by the roadside — a situation he attributed to worsening food insecurity.
“People are dying. People are starving. I myself am feeling the effects of hunger,” he said.
He said while some might assume he was insulated from the crisis, “the truth is, I’m also feeling the hunger.”
Though he said he was not planning to run for president, Amaechi added that it remained a possibility because he believed he still had something to offer.
“Certainly, I believe I can make a meaningful contribution,” he said.
Amaechi revealed that he was in talks with other concerned Nigerians, who believed the country was being mismanaged, to form a united front. His statement came amid moves by major opposition figures, including Atiku Abubakar of PDP, Peter Obi of Labour Party, and Nasir El-Rufai of APC to form a coalition ahead of 2027.
El-Rufai had also recently disclosed that efforts were underway
to build an alliance that could challenge Tinubu.
But several opposition politicians have decamped to APC in recent months, sparking fears of a drift
toward a one-party system under Tinubu’s leadership. Amaechi said the country had become stagnant, and ongoing consultations were focused on
how to steer it back on track.
“We’re thinking that if we come together and win the election, the country will certainly witness change.”
Ponzi: SEC Insists CBEX Remains
Banned in Nigeria, Warns Investors
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) warned investors that Crypto Bridge Exchange (CBEX), operating under the corporate identity of ST Technologies International Ltd, also known as Smart Treasure/ Super Technology, remained banned in Nigeria, insisting that it is not
CBN: June 3 Deadline for BDC’s Recapitalisation Intact
James Emejo in Abuja
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) yesterday clarified that the June 3, 2025 deadline for Bureau De Change (BDC) operators to recapitalise remained unchanged.
The apex bank stated this in a statement issued by CBN acting Director, Corporate Communications Department, Mrs. Hakama Sidi Ali.
The clarification came against the backdrop of reports that the central bank had approved an extension of the deadline to December 31, 2025.
She described the information as false, misleading, adding that it should be disregarded.
As part of the revised framework introduced in February 2024, BDCs
are required to meet new minimum capital requirements including N2 billion for Tier-1 and N500 million for Tier-2 operators.
Sidi-Ali, consequently urged the public, and media platforms, and all stakeholders to consistently verify information directly from official CBN sources, such as the bank’s website and authorised communication channels, before publishing or sharing news about the bank and its regulatory directives.
She reaffirmed the central bank’s committed to ensuring transparency, stability, and compliance in the foreign exchange market.
She said the bank will continue to engage with all relevant stakeholders in accordance with its statutory
mandate.
In May 2024, the CBN ordered all existing Bureau De Change (BDCs) operators in the country and promoters of new entrants to reapply for new operating licenses of their choice.
The directive came as the apex bank introduced fresh regulatory and supervisory guidelines for BDC operations, setting a new licensing regime and capital requirement for the sub-sector.
The framework categorised BDCs into Tiers One and Two, adding that while the former may operate in any state of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the latter is permitted to operate only in one state of the federation or the FCT.
FG Debunks Reports on Collapse of Forward Crude Oil Sales
ndubuisi francis in Abuja
The federal government has debunked recent media reports concerning the collapse of forward sale of crude oil involving the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd).
Debunking the reports yesterday, the Federal Ministry of Finance in a statement issued by its Director, Information and Public Relations, Mohammed Manga, said while market speculation is not uncommon in the context of ongoing economic reforms and transactions, no final decision has been announced by the government.
According to the statement, any
commentary suggesting the collapse of any such initiative is unfounded.
It added that the government remains focused on deploying a range of innovative, transparent, and fiscally responsible financing strategies to optimise Nigeria’s oil assets, improve external liquidity, and strengthen macroeconomic stability.
The full statement read: “The Federal Government of Nigeria is aware of recent media reports concerning a potential forward sale of crude oil involving the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd).
“While market speculation is not uncommon in the context of ongoing economic reforms and transactions,
no final decision has been announced by the Government, and commentary suggesting the collapse of any such initiative is unfounded.
“The Government remains focused on deploying a range of innovative, transparent, and fiscally responsible financing strategies to optimise Nigeria’s oil assets, improve external liquidity, and strengthen macroeconomic stability.”
Since 2019, the state-owned oil company, (NNPC Limited had entered into 11 deals, and executed forward oil sale agreements totaling $21.565 billion, a development that severely constrained its ability to meet Domestic Crude Supply Obligations (DCSO) to local refiners.
The central bank also pegged the minimum capital requirement for a national BDC at N2 billion, and N500 million for a state operator.
In addition, the central bank issued a six-month deadline for the BDCs to meet the minimum capital requirements for the license category applied for from the effective date of the guidelines.
The bank stated that the guidelines were part of its reforms to reposition the sub-sector to play its envisioned role in the country’s foreign exchange (FX) market.
registered by the commission.
SEC’s position followed reports that traders on the controversial CBEX platform were now back and able to access their accounts and trade, with renewed assurance after the digital platform abruptly shut down in April.
The shutdown had resulted in the trapping of investors’ funds in excess of N1 trillion.
In a public notice issued on Wednesday, SEC advised the public to refrain from patronising or transacting any investment-related business with CBEX.
However, the commission was silent on what steps it would take against the trading platform and its promoters, having earlier declared that CBEX was not registered or authorised by it to embark on or offer investment-related services to the Nigerian public.
The notice read, “The attention of the Securities and Exchange Commission has been drawn to media reports indicating that CBEX (Crypto Bridge Exchange), operating under the corporate identity of ST Technologies International Ltd, also known as Smart Treasure/ Super Technology, has resumed
operations across Nigeria.
“According to the reports, CBEX promoters are demanding $200 from their subscribers with balances above $1,000, and $100 from those with less than $1000 balances before withdrawals can be processed.”
The commission stated “unequivocally that neither CBEX nor ST Technologies International Ltd (or Smart Treasure/Super Technology) is registered with the commission or authorised to offer investment related services to the Nigerian public.
“As a matter of fact, enforcement action has already been initiated against CBEX and its promoters following its previous unauthorised investment activities and the commission is collaborating with relevant law enforcement agencies to properly investigate CBEX/ST Technologies International Ltd and will take appropriate actions in line with the provisions of the Investments and Securities Act 2025.
“The Nigerian public is accordingly advised to REFRAIN from patronising or transacting with CBEX/ST Technologies International Ltd (Smart Treasure or Super Technology) as they risk losing their funds.”
$11bn P&ID Case: UK Lawyer Loses Bid to Overturn Misconduct Findings
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
A British lawyer who stood to receive up to $3 billion from Nigeria over a collapsed gas project, has lost a bid to overturn court findings that he acted corruptly out of greed.
Seamus Andrew had represented Process & Industrial Developments (P&ID), a little-known British Virgin Islands-based company, in a longrunning legal battle with Nigeria that ended in a court victory for Africa’s most populous country, a Reuters report said.
Nigeria had been facing a bill for $11 billion, representing around a third of its foreign exchange reserves, after P&ID won an arbitration case over the collapse of a 2010 gas supply deal.
But London’s High Court in 2023 overturned the damages bill after
finding that P&ID had paid bribes in connection with the underlying contract and the resulting arbitration.
But P&ID had denied paying bribes and accused Nigeria of institutional incompetence. Its application to appeal against the High Court’s decision was refused.
The court had also found that P&ID’s lawyers, including Andrew, received confidential Nigerian documents during the arbitration, which they knew they were not entitled to see, with a judge describing Andrew’s conduct as “indefensible.”
Andrew could have received 20 per cent of all proceeds recovered from Nigeria, up to $3 billion of the $11 billion award, after becoming a director of P&ID and acquiring a stake in the company in 2017 following the end of the arbitration, Reuters said. Andrew applied to the Court
of Appeal to overturn the findings against him, arguing that inadequate reasons were given for the criticism and that he was not given proper notice that findings would be made against him.
But his application for permission to appeal was refused, with Judge Julian Flaux ruling on Tuesday that Andrew had brought his application too late and that, in any event, the criticism was adequately reasoned, foreseeable and justified.
“Overall, the finding that Mr Andrew’s conduct was indefensible was plainly correct,” Flaux added. Andrew said in a statement: “Although I am disappointed by the outcome of my appeal, I believe that I acted in accordance with my professional duties and I am confident that my position will be vindicated in due course.”
Director, EnvAccord, Mr. Ibrahim Salau; General Manager, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Dr. Tunde Ajayi; Director,
Development, LASEPA, Mrs. AbdulWaris Solanke; Director, Technical Patner, Climatic Synergy, Dr Omawunmi Kola- Lawal; and former General Manager, LASEPA, Engr. Ayodele Antonio, during LASEPA’s 2025 Capacity Building
Consultants
with the theme, “Climate Fundamental Sector Impact, Risk Assessment and Action Planning”, held in Alausa, Lagos...recently
ndubuisi francis in Abuja
INAUGURATION OF DIGITAL INDUSTRIAL PARK IN OGUN...
L–R: Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida; Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr.
Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele; Executive Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun; The Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba
and Senator representing Ogun Central Senatorial District, Senator Shuaibu Salisu, during the commissioning of a Digital Industrial Park in Abeokuta, Ogun State… recently
Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, yesterday, said asymmetric threats demanded
towards democratic governance, civil liberties, and the rule of law.
“It also honours the sacrifices of those who stood firm in the face of oppression and paid the ultimate price in the struggle for democratic freedom,” he stated.
The governor saluted the resilience and unwavering spirit of the Nigerian people, whose commitment continued to sustain the ideals of democracy.
He acknowledged the contributions of past and present leaders, civil society actors, and ordinary citizens, who had played a pivotal role in deepening the democratic culture in the country.
The governor emphasised that democracy was not just about elections, but about delivering tangible dividends that uplift the lives of the people.
He stated that under his stewardship, Bauchi State had witnessed remarkable progress across various sectors, underscoring the transformative impact of purposeful governance rooted in democratic ideals.
Abbas: Democracy Strongest When People Are Involved
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, said citizens must not only be heard but also involved in governance under democracy.
Abbas restated the commitment of the 10th House to engaging with the public on issues of national importance. He stated this in Abuja at the second edition of “Citizens Roundtable with the leadership of the House of Representatives.”
The speaker, in his closing address presented by Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, stated that the presence of the various stakeholders at the roundtable “reaffirmed a simple but powerful truth: democracy is strongest when the people are not only heard but fully involved”.
While pointing out that the contributions had enriched the deliberations and inspired a renewed commitment to people-focused governance, Abbas stated that it was “a day of dialogue, reflection, and mutual learning”.
He said, “We came together with a shared purpose—to listen to one another, to reflect on how far we have come, and to chart a more inclusive and responsive path forward.” Abbas stated that he was truly encouraged by “the richness of the exchanges, the clarity of the perspectives offered, and the passion with which you have spoken about the future of our country”.
agile and sustained responses.
Abubakar stated that logistics must no longer be seen as a backend function but as a frontline enabler of combat power, adding, “The
Fubara Calls for Collaboration Across Political Divides to Build Inclusive Society
Governor of Rivers State, Mr Siminalayi Fubara, called for collaboration across political divides to build a society, where every citizen is heard, supported to achieve their potential, and encouraged to contribute to collective progress.
Fubara made the call in his Democracy Day message in Port Harcourt.
In the statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, Fubara restated his commitment to upholding the rule of law, protecting fundamental human rights, and ensuring that all citizens, regardless of political affiliation, could actively participate in the democratic process.
He emphasised his administration’s dedication to safeguarding life and property through robust security strategies, and pledged to continue to defend the state’s interests and maintain a government that valued inclusivity, transparency, and accountability.
The governor, who acknowledged the recent political situation in Rivers State, which had disrupted democratic governance, stated that it served as a reminder of how delicate democracy could be.
He stressed that democracy must be actively protected and nurtured in order to remain strong and meaningful.
Activist Henshaw Insists Nigeria’s Devt Worse Than It Was Before Democracy
Executive Director, We The People, Ken Henshaw, said Nigeria’s development was worse than it was before the return to democratic rule.
Henshaw, who spoke with THISDAY in Port Harcourt, said Nigerians had become poorer even while democracy existed, stressing that politicians have done more harm than good to the entire nation.
Acknowledging that the country had witnessed 26 years of uninterrupted democracy, Henshaw said, “People in 1999 have actually expected that after the intense campaign that lasted for about 20 years, fighting to chase away the military, fighting to ensure that Nigeria returns back to democratic rule, that democracy will carry itself development and progress for the majority of Nigerians. But that has not been the case, unfortunately.
Nigerian Air Force cannot afford to be reactive. We must anticipate, adapt, and innovate.”
He stressed that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) had reconfigured four
“Unfortunately, Nigerians have become poorer even while democracy exists. In terms of every indicator, including indicators around development, Nigeria has failed very badly.
“Look at the exchange rate, we have seen decline between 1999, when democracy came on-board, and now 2025. Our economy has deteriorated.”
Bamidele: My Wife Deployed Ambulance to Rescue Me During Office Invasion in Abuja
Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, narrated how he was smuggled out of Abuja by his wife, Mrs. Yemisi Bamidele, in an ambulance belonging to Garki General Hospital, where she was working as a pharmacist.
Bamidele said his narrow escape from the onslaught of the agents of the General Sani Abacha junta culminated in his political asylum in the United States due to perennial threat to his life and that of his immediate family members.
Bamidele, in a statement by his media office, made the disclosure in Abuja on Wednesday while narrating his ordeal, as the country commemorated the 2025 National Democracy Day.
The day is used to remember the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election won by the candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), the late Chief MKO Abiola.
Bamidele stated that he was in a court session at Wuse II, Federal Capital Territory, to defend 11 students’ union leaders, who were expelled by the University of Abuja when he received information that security operatives had invaded his law office in an alleged search for arms and weapons.
He stated that immediately he was informed about the development, he told his colleague to take over the matter after which his wife made arrangements for his eventual miraculous escape from Abuja.
Bamidele stated “I was in court when one of the court registrars informed me about the invasion of my law office in Wuse II. There was no GSM then. We only relied on land lines.
“One of the lawyers in my office had called my wife from NUJ Secretariat because they had my wife’s office line at Garki General Hospital where she was working as
pre-owned fuel tankers into specialised aircraft refuelling bowsers to boost operational efficiency.
Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters, Nigerian
a registered pharmacist.
“He called my wife’s office line just to let me know that when he went to buy something around my office, by the time he was returning, he saw that security officers had taken over the entire place.
“As one of the people who managed to come out of the street, he heard that the security agencies said they were looking for arms and ammunition in that office.
“It was that bad to come and look for arms and ammunition in a law office.”
Speaking during the donation to the school, Obi expressed worries that the FCTA could afford to claim that it renovated an existing structure that was in good shape with N39 billion.
He described it as a waste and misplacement of government priority where whereas there were schools in the country where such funds should have been invested for the welfare and educational benefits of children.
According to Obi, ‘’ the N39 billion used to renovate the ICC would have been better used on issues that would benefit the school children who are in dire need of such investment.
‘’N39 billion would have been used to procure thousands and thousands of computers that would have benefited the schools because the children who are leaders would have benefited from it. They are the leaders of tomorrow.
‘’ As we talk, teachers in the Federal Capital Territory are on strike for three months protesting months of non-payment of salaries.
‘’This was one of the things I did when I was the Governor of Anambra State, I made it to the extent that ten students used one computer,” he added.
Obi said the donation would have been done in Chibok community, but he was warned that there was a security risk to do so because of the security situation in the area.
The facilitator of the donations, Mrs. Alisha Yusufu, said the Chibok community got in touch with her and solicited for help to improve computer literacy in the school on May 31, this year, and she immediately got in touch with Obi who quickly offered the donations.
The leader of the Chibok community who received the ten computer laptops, two Laser printers pledged to ensure that the items were put to
Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, made the assertions, in a statement
Ejodame said the initiative, executed under the supervision of the 643 Equipment Supply Depot in Lagos, reflected the Chief of the Air Staff’s resolve to entrench proactive logistics support and deepen maintenance culture while leveraging innovation and resourcefulness across the service.
He stated, “These reconfigured bowsers represent more than just fuel on wheels. They embody our drive for self-reliance and operational adaptability.
“In an era where speed and sustainability of logistics are critical to mission success, the Nigerian Air Force cannot afford to be reactive. We must anticipate, adapt, and innovate.”
Abubakar explained that the
use for the maximum benefits of the the students.
In the same vein, the CUPP described as brazen the renaming of the ICC after a sitting president.
It also condemned what it described as reckless expenditure in refurbishing of the already functional ICC by the FCTA, while critical sectors like education and healthcare in the FCT were crumbling.
A statement signed by the National Secretary, CUPP, Chief Peter Ameh, said the misallocation of resources, coupled with the brazen renaming of public institutions after President Tinubu, “exposes a disturbing focus on self-glorification over nation-building.”
The coalition said while the facility was built in 1991 under General Ibrahim Babangida for a modest N240 million, the same Conference Centre was alleged to have been renovated at an outrageous cost of N39 billion.
According to CUPP, the ICC was testament to prudent investment in national infrastructure when it was built, adding that General Babangida, despite overseeing its construction from the ground up, never sought to immortalise his name on this landmark.
In stark contrast, the coalition said Tinubu, whose administration merely renovated it, decided to rename it the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre.
“This pattern extends to other public assets, including the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Technology Innovation Complex, Bola Ahmed Tinubu Barracks, and Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal Polytechnic.
“Such actions reek of personal branding and a desperate bid to rewrite history through paint and concrete, rather than through transformative leadership, “ it said It said the money squandered
newly reconfigured bowsers were set to play a critical role in sustaining ongoing air operations, particularly in counterterrorism missions and joint force deployments across the country.
“By doing so, the NAF aims to enhance persistent air presence, optimise turnaround times, and deliver decisive effects in complex operational environments,” he said. The air chief stressed that one of the aircraft refuelling units had already been deployed to the 407 Air Combat Training Group, Kainji, with the remaining units earmarked for other strategic locations nationwide. He said the move was expected to significantly improve the service’s operational readiness and reaffirmed the NAF’s steadfast commitment to national security and the protection of all Nigerians.
on the unnecessary facelift could have funded a new, state-of-the-art national monument or addressed the dire crises plaguing the FCT.
“Primary school children have been out of school for three months due to underfunding and neglect. Area Councils and Primary Healthcare Centers have been paralysed by months-long strikes, leaving communities without essential services.
“These are the real emergencies demanding urgent attention, yet the administration prioritises vanity projects over the welfare of Nigerians.
“While citizens grapple with soaring inflation, insecurity, failing healthcare, and a collapsing education system, the Tinubu administration appears more committed to immortalizing a name than solving these pressing challenges.
“This is not leadership—it is a shameful betrayal of public trust. For context, N39 billion is not just a renovation budget; it is a staggering leap from the N240 million used to build the ICC from scratch. This gross mismanagement of resources demands accountability.
“CUPP calls for an immediate investigation into the FCTA’s expenditure on the ICC renovation and a reorientation of priorities toward education, healthcare, and economic empowerment.
“We urge President Tinubu to focus on building a legacy through tangible solutions—schools that educate, hospitals that heal, and industries that employ—rather than plastering his name on public assets. Nigerians deserve leadership that uplifts the nation, not monuments to personal ambition.
“The time for misplaced priorities is over. Let us build a Nigeria that works for all, not a gallery of selfglorification,” it said.
Bosun Tijani;
Michael Adedotun;
T I nubu To W I ke: We W I ll Welcome You To AP c An YTI me You Are
T I nubu To Pre S en T nATI on A l b roAD cAST, I n A DD re SS from nATI on A l ASS emblY
Expert Blames Poor Governance, Public Distrust for 200 Deaths in Mokwa Flood
Emma Okonji and agnes Ekebuike
In the wake of the devastating Mokwa flood in Niger State, which claimed over 200 lives and destroyed nearly 600 homes, a renowned analyst, expert and former government official, Dr. Sam Amadi, has blamed the situation on
systemic failures in governance, lack of accountability and unpreparedness on the part of government to tackle impending disasters
Amadi, who spoke yesterday on ARISE News Channel, the broadcast arm of THISDAY Newspapers, highlighted the recurring neglect in the use of Nigeria’s Ecological Fund,
Kogi Reassures Citizens of Adequate Security
ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja
The Kogi State Government has reassured its people of its unwavering commitment to combat insecurity, urging the citizens, media stakeholders, and political actors to avoid spreading fear or politicising the state security challenges.
This was contained in a statement made available to the journalists by the state Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, in Lokoja.
The government said it is quietly but effectively recording progress in its fight against criminal elements, particularly kidnappers, within the state.
“These gains are not coincidental. They are results from well-planned strategies and deep institutional
engagements aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of every Kogite,” the statement said.
While sympathising with families affected by recent attacks, the government stressed that such incidents should not be used to spread misinformation or panic.
“Misinformation and alarmist narratives only embolden criminals and demoralise communities. We call on opinion leaders and the media to work with us, not against us,” it stated.
The government also condemned what it described as “the politicisation of insecurity by certain desperate politicians,” warning that such behavior undermines the collective fight against crime.
a special reserve intended for emergency environmental responses.
“The political economy around such funds often turns them into slush funds,”
Amadi said, emphasising that less than 30 per cent of such allocations typically reach affected communities in any meaningful way.
Amadi stressed that while
natural disasters remained inevitable, the severity of their impact is often compounded by man-made failures, particularly in governance, infrastructure, and communication.
He pointed out that despite early warnings from agencies like NIMET, community resistance to evacuation is a reflection of deep-seated distrust in government.
Group Calls for Investigation into Alleged Genocide against Southern Kaduna People
John shiklam in Kaduna
The Southern Kaduna Leaders Council (SKLC), has called on the Department of State Services (DSS) and other relevant security agencies to investigate alleged genocide against the Southern Kaduna people during the administration of ex- governor Nasir El-Rufai.
Addressing a press conference yesterday in Kaduna, a former Commissioner and Secretary of SKLC, Timothy Gandu, said the investigation would unravel if there is any role played by El-Rufai in aiding and abetting grievous and egregious crimes against humanity.
“We also demand that, for justice to be served and the souls of the unjustly departed to rest in
peace, El-Rufai should be made to face the full wrath of the law if found guilty,” Gandu said.
According to him, the Southern Kaduna people will never forget the myriads of wrongdoings inflicted on them by El-Rufai.
The SKLC also dismissed claims by Muyiwa Adekeye, El-Rufai’s former Adviser on Media, that the balcanisation of chiefdoms and change of nomenclature in
Southern Kaduna was done on request by the chiefdoms. The group described Adekeye’s claim as false and urged him to stop spreading falsehood. Adekeye had in a recent statement said the alterations of chiefdoms and change of names of some of the traditional institutions by the El-Rufai government were done on requests from the chiefdoms.
Teachers Shortage: Nasarawa SUBEB Redeploys 1,300 Administrative Staff to Classrooms
igbawase Ukumba in Lafia
The Executive Chairman of the Nasarawa State Universal Basic Education Board (NSUBEB), Dr. Kassim Muhammad Kassim, has directed the immediate redeployment of 1,300 administrative staff out of a total of 3,422 across the 13
local government areas and 18 development areas of the state to classrooms.
Kassim issued the directive yesterday during a meeting with the educational secretaries of local government and development areas in the state.
The NSUBEB chairman had previously gathered data from the
various education secretaries on the total number of administrative staff members, including supervisors, which totaled 3,422 in the state.
He emphasized that it is unnecessary for the government to experience a shortage of teachers while administrative departments have an abundance of qualified teachers on staff.
Dr. Kassim stated that the board would not tolerate a situation where there are numerous supervisors in urban areas while rural schools lack teachers, questioning the purpose of supervision in such cases. He directed the education secretary to post the 1,300 redeployed teachers to rural schools.
Otu Signs Nine Bills into Law as CRSHA Endorses Him for 2nd Term
Bassey inyang in Calabar
In a bold legislative stride aimed at repositioning Cross River State for inclusive growth, the state
Governor, Bassey Edet Otu, has signed nine bills into law.
At the ceremony where Otu signed the bill, the members of the Cross River State House of
RxAll Named Honoree in World Changing Ideas Awards
Assembly led by their Speaker, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, endorsed the governor for a second term in office ahead of May 29, 2027, when he would have completed his first term in office.
2025”, which guarantees citizens’ access to basic water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services. It also sets up a regulatory framework for the sector.
RxAll, a deep tech company pioneering Artificial Intelligence(AI)-driven platforms to improve pharmaceutical safety and access, has been named an honoree of Fast Company’s 2025 World Changing Ideas Awards. This annual recognition honours bold and transformative efforts that tackle the world’s most pressing issues—from fresh sustainability initiatives and cutting-edge AI developments to ambitious pursuits of social equity that are helping mold the world.
drugs.
According to a statement, RxAll was recognised in the Health category for its RxScanner, a patented platform that combines AI and spectroscopy to instantly detect counterfeit prescription
Designed for pharmacies and regulators, the RxScanner helps eliminate fake and substandard medications from the supply chain. Since its launch, the technology has enabled over 5,000 pharmacies across Africa and the United States of America (USA) to identify and remove 1.3 million counterfeit drugs, while also integrating tools for predictive demand analytics, procurement, and financing access for independent pharmacies.
This year’s awards, featured on fastcompany.com, showcase 50 winners across 12 categories and 50 additional winners across
industries, for a total of 100 outstanding projects.
A panel of Fast Company editors and reporters selected the winners from a pool of more than 1,500 entries and judged applications based on their impact, sustainability, design, creativity, scalability, and ability to improve society.
Commenting, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of RxAll, Dr. Adebayo Alonge, said: “This award validates the urgent need for deep-tech innovation in the pharmaceutical supply chain. We started RxAll to save lives by restoring trust in medicine.“
Ayambem said the state lawmakers unanimously endorsed Otu for second term due to what they described as his sterling performance in his first two years in office, hence members had passed a motion to that effect.
The nine bills signed into law by the governor span critical sectors such as water, health, security, infrastructure, and environmental research, reflecting the administration’s push to modernize state governance and address pressing developmental needs.The new laws promulgated by Otu are:
The Cross River State Water Supply and Sanitation Law No. 5,
“The Cross River State Fire Fighting and Rescue Service Law No. 4, 2024,” which enhances emergency response operations and contributes to increasing the state’s internally generated revenue.
“The Cross River State Security Trust Fund (Amendment) Law No. 6, 2024,” which empowers the governor to appoint a qualified person as chairman to lead the fund, ensuring better focus on the state security challenges.
“The Cross River State Scraps Regulatory Agency (Amendment) Law No. 9, 2025,” which aims to curb the activities of scavengers and vandals targeting public and private property.
Businessman Sues OPay Digital Services, Seeks N30m in Damages
seriki adinoyi in jos
A businessman, Mr. Suleiman Mohammed Dikwa, has filed a lawsuit against Opay Digital Services Limited at a High Court of Justice in Jos, Plateau State over an alleged unlawful freezing of his account and unauthorised withdrawal of funds.
He is seeking N30 million in damages in addition to other reliefs.
In the suit, Dikwa, through his counsel, F.M. Pukuma of S.T. Panwal & Co told the court that Opay had frozen his account and deducted a sum of N28,592.92 on April 19, 2024 allegedly on a court order from a Sharia Court
in Kaduna State. He contended that the deduction was carried out without his knowledge or consent, thereby violating his rights as a customer.
Dikwa said that he only got to know about it when he noticed the unauthorised deduction and was unable to access his account.
Worried that there might be a security breach, he visited a Point of Sale (POS) terminal, where he discovered that his account had been frozen. He subsequently visited Opay’s office in Dadin Kowa, Jos South Local Government Area where he was informed that the freeze was executed pursuant to the Sharia Court order.
AVA Securities Concludes Varsity Students Trading Competition
AVA Securities Limited, a subsidiary of AVA Capital Group, has successfully concluded the second edition of the AVA Securities Trading Competition, Nigeria’s first securities trading competition for university students, where students traded with N5 million.
Following the conclusion of the Season Two, Season Three of the groundbreaking initiative is set
to launch in August 2025, with applications opening this June. Commenting on the conclusion of the second edition and the announcement of Season Three, Managing Director of AVA Securities Limited, Mrs. Ifeyinwa Adeniji, said: “This competition is more than just trading—it is about building a financially savvy generation equipped to make smart investment
decisions. As the first of its kind in Nigeria, we are proud to continue leading the charge in shaping how young people interact with capital markets.”
According to the company, launched in September 2024, the AVA Securities Trading Competition was created to deepen financial literacy, enhance strategic thinking and risk management skills, and
provide a practical platform for university students to showcase their trading instincts in a live market environment.
“Unlike traditional investment competitions that rely on simulations or demo accounts, this one-of-a-kind competition empowers selected student teams with N5 million in real capital to trade live on the AVA Securities trading platform,” it said.
NIPR President to Review GOCOP’s Book on Online Publishing
The Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) is pleased to announce that President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Dr. Ike Neliaku, will review the organisation’s upcoming book on Tuesday, June 17, 2025 at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja. Confirming this, GOCOP President, Maureen Chigbo, said, the book, titled “Nigeria Media Renaissance: GOCOP Perspectives on Online Publishing,” would be presented at an event chaired by Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris. The Publicity Secretary, GOCOP, Ogbuefi Remmy Nweke, in a press statement, reiterated that the book presentation would take place on
Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at 10:00 am at the Ladi Kwali Hall, Abuja Continental Hotel, Wuse Zone 4, Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Additionally, Nweke said, the event would serve as a fundraiser for the N2.3 billion GOCOP Media Centre, a multi-purpose resource centre featuring a secretariat, 21stcentury library, and event halls.
Dr. Neliaku, he said, is an accomplished public relations expert, author, and public speaker as well as serves as Chairman of Council, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter of NIPR; and has held notable positions, including Senior Special Assistant to the President, Federal Republic of Nigeria (2010-2015).
ol USE g UN aden I
As we mark another ‘Democracy Day’, it is important for those in authority at all levels to address the existential challenges faced by most Nigerians, the clear and present dangers to the communal faith in our country and the security threats posed by sundry cartels of criminals. But on a day such as this, it is also important to recognise the gains that have been made on our democratic journey. One stands out. We seem to have put behind us the kind of high-profile political assassinations that dominated the first decade of the current dispensation. Perhaps so we may remember, and it is important in a nation noted for collective amnesia, I have decided to excerpt from a chapter in my unpublished book, ’25 Defining Issues in 25 Years of Democracy in Nigeria’. It is a reminder of where we are coming from and the road that we should never travel again...
…On 23 December 2001, then Attorney General and Justice Minister, Chief Bola Ige, was shot dead at his home in Ibadan. In the days preceding the murder, Ige had a well-publicised altercation at the palace of then Ooni of Ife, the late Oba Sijuwade Okunade during the conferment of chieftaincy title on some individuals. The Second Republic Governor of the old Oyo State (now Oyo and Osun) was attacked by an angry crowd who stripped him of his cap and necklace and
destroyed his pair of glasses. The group was led by one ‘Fryo’, a supporter of Chief Iyiola Omisore, who had by then just been impeached as Osun State Deputy Governor in controversial circumstances.
At that period, the acrimonious relationship between Omisore and Governor Bisi Akande (who later became foundation chairman of the APC) had caused a fracas at the state assembly, leading to the death of a prominent member representing Ife Central Local Government area,
Odunayo Olagbaju. That Ige sided with Akande in the crisis perhaps explained the reaction of the mob. A day after the assault, Omisore granted an abusive interview to TEMPO magazine. “... Bola Ige came on radio to insult me and my family. That is his last one. He was beaten yesterday; the people of Ife beat him up and he was crying like a baby as they removed his cap and his glasses,” Omisore said.
With Ige’s death coming before that interview was published, Omisore became a prime suspect in the murder that elicited sharp divisions within Afenifere, the Yoruba socio-political group to which he (Ige) was deputy leader at the time. Ige’s killing also occurred at a period there were fractures within the group, and it all had to do with his (Ige’s) presidential aspiration that had been scuttled two years earlier. Following the restoration of democracy in 1999, Ige had sought the presidential ticket of the Alliance for Democracy (AD). While many imagined it would be a mere formality, Ige lost to a former Secretary to the Federal Government, Chief Olu Falae in a contest decided by 23 Yoruba elders who swore to an oath of secrecy before voting in Ibadan. Ige got nine votes to Falae’s 14. Despite the secrecy of the exercise, there were reports of who voted for whom and this created a lot of bitterness and divisions among the top echelon of Afenifere.
Following Ige’s death, Omisore was arrested and eventually arraigned before an Oyo State High Court along with other people. They were later released for lack of evidence. Till today,
nobody has been held accountable for the death of Ige. The irony of it, as many people say, is that if the Justice Minister of a country could be killed and there is no justice for his family, that is very telling of the rule of law in Nigeria.
But if Ige’s murder was shocking, the gruesome assassination of Mr Barnabas Igwe, the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) Onitsha branch chairman and wife, Abigael, a few months later was even more confounding. The couple, both lawyers, were returning home from the NBA conference in Ibadan on 1st September 2002 when a group of assailants attacked and shot them several times. Nothing was taken from their vehicle. Since Igwe had been an outspoken critic of the government in Anambra State, accusing fingers were immediately pointed at then Governor Chinwoke Mbadinuju (now late).
In the days preceding the killings, the Onitsha NBA had given Mbadinuju a 21-day ultimatum to pay the salary arrears of workers in the state or resign. Igwe also claimed at the time that he had received direct threats from some unnamed government officials through telephone calls on his personal mobile phones. The governor of course denied any involvement in the death of the couple. Instead, he first blamed the death on armed robbers and later that Igwe and wife may have been targeted by people from their local community. Mbadinuju instituted a panel of inquiry into the murder for which nobody was ever arrested. And till today, there is no clue as to who killed the Igwes…
NOTE: Piece concluded online
Democracy and the Assassins Muhammed Lawal Uwais (1936-2025)
It is undeniable that the late former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Muhammed Lawal Uwais excelled in his assignment as Chairman of the electoral reform panel established by the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua. That most of the fundamental recommendations by the panel have not been implemented is an indictment on the authorities in our country. But to reduce his entire life and career to this one role, as being done by some commentators—even if well-meaning—is unfair to the 27 years Uwais dedicated to the Supreme Court and his several contributions to Nigeria’s legal system.
It is indeed most fitting that THISDAY LAWYER publication devoted its latest edition on Tuesday to Uwais, who was called to the Bar at the Middle Temple, London in 1963 and held the position of CJN for 11 years from 1995 until retirement in 2006 at age 70. In his tribute, Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, not only reminded readers that Uwais as CJN returned N5 billion to the treasury at the end of the 2005 budget year but also that Uwais was a member of the old generation of Supreme Court Justices who remain Gold Standard in the estimation of most Nigerians: Chukwudifu Oputa, Kayode Esho, Andrews Obaseki, Anthony Aniagolu and others.
It is indeed on record that as a relatively new Supreme Court Justice in 1979, the exceptional qualities of Uwais were quickly recognized by then CJN George Sodeinde Sowemimo, who included him (Uwais) on the panel overseeing the high-profile political case filed by the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo against Alhaji Shehu Shagari, following the 1979 presidential election. I believe the experience Uwais gained from that panel of judicial giants must have significantly influenced his development into the distinguished judge he later became.
Throughout his career on the bench, Uwais’ jurisprudence was marked by firm reinforcement of constitutional supremacy and federal balance, expansion of fundamental rights, liberal approach to constitutional interpretation, clarification of judicial and court jurisdictions, and advocacy for robust electoral and institutional reforms.
Those were the fundamental kernels on which his judgements rested, and I can cite a few. While affirming the nullification of the gubernatorial in Kebbi State in 2003, Uwais came up with the doctrine of ‘Substantial Compliance’ with the electoral act by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) which has become the standard for judges on elections. The ruling emphasized that minor irregularities may not void an election, but “Where an election is conducted in substantial non-compliance with the Electoral Act, the results cannot stand, and a fresh election must be ordered.”
In the case between Abia State and the federal government, following the signing into law of the Revenue Monitoring Act (2005) by President Olusegun Obasanjo, Uwais’ judgment affirmed fiscal federalism. The issue centred on the constitutionality of the legislation which required states to remit internally generated revenues (IGR) to the Federation Account for redistribution. The
argument of the 36 states led by Abia, Lagos and Ogun was that the Act encroached on the autonomy of the states regarding the management of their IGR (e.g., taxes, fees). They argued further that only federally collected revenues (e.g., oil taxes, customs) should be shared under Section 162 of the 1999 Constitution.
In dismissing the argument of the federal government that the Act was aimed at ensuring equity by redistributing all revenues, including state IGR, Uwais held that “The Constitution clearly demarcates federal and state revenues. The National Assembly lacks power to confiscate states’ IGR under the guise of ‘monitoring.” On Residual Powers, Uwais said “States are not appendages of the federation. Their autonomy over IGR is sacrosanct under S. 4(7) of the Constitution.”
And on constitutional interpretation: “Where the Constitution is clear, as in S. 162, the court must give effect to its plain meaning without legislative overreach.”
From the case between the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi against the Inspector General of Police over his detention to that of the late Chief Emeka Ojukwu against the Lagos State government, Uwais upheld the fundamental rights of citizens against official arbitrariness. In the case of the latter over the seized property under the Abandoned Properties Act (1979) after the civil war, it was the intervention by Uwais at the Court of Appeal (where he was at the period) that saved the day. “A citizen cannot be deprived of his property without due process, even under wartime regulations. The government must follow the rule of law, not arbitrary force,” according to Uwais who ruled in favour of Ojukwu.
Perhaps the most notable of Uwais jurisprudence was his ruling in the case between the late Senator Abraham Adesanya and the federal government which has become a pivotal reference for ‘Locus Standi’ in Nigeria today. This is acknowledged by Professor Taiwo Oshipitan in his article titled, ‘Constitutional Law’ in a journal on Uwais’ work edited by the late Justice Niki Tobi. This case involved a member of the Second Republic National Assembly (Adesanya) attempting to block President Shagari from appointing Justice
Ovie Whiskey as Chairman of the Federal Electoral Commission (FEDECO), the electoral body now known as INEC.
While underscoring the need for access to justice, the late Uwais highlighted the importance of deterring intrusive interlopers, meddlesome individuals, and professional litigants from filing cases on matters that do not directly relate to them. His creativity in deriving ideas from administrative law to establish the essential criteria for locus standi has since become an established principle. Despite several deferred opinions, the principle enunciated by Uwais endures as access to court still essentially depends on whether one’s civil rights are infracted upon or not.
Of course, most people remember that the Uwais Panel recommended an Electoral Offences Commission, independent constituency-resizing and party-regulation bodies, shifting the appointment of INEC chairman to the judiciary, adopting proportional representation for legislatures among others. These were based on his understanding that credible elections are important to the survival of any democracy.
In THISDAY LAWYER on Tuesday, several serving and retired Judges as well as prominent legal practitioners paid glowing tributes to Uwais. But it is the current CJN, Justice Kudirat KekereEkun, who wrote something that I found most touching because I could attest to it. “…But, perhaps, what we will miss most is his quiet dignity—his ability to inspire without demanding attention, to lead without pretence, and to mentor without fanfare,” Kekere-Ekun wrote.
That indeed summed up the essence of the Uwais I knew and with whom I enjoyed a good relationship for almost two decades. Until two years ago when his health started to deteriorate, I used to be a constant in his house for Iftar during every Ramadan. But what I can never forget was his visit to my house in October 2019, following the death of my younger brother, Agboola. Although he was quiet for most of the period he spent with us, his mere presence in our house was comforting at a most difficult period for me. May God comfort the family he left behind.
Bola Ige
Late Uwais
inAUGURATion of ThE nEwLy BUiLT ADminiSTRATiVE BLocK...
L-R: Special Adviser to the Governor, Taxation & Revenue, Mr. Abdul-Kabir Ogungbo; Executive Chairman, Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Hon. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; Onibeju of Ibejuland, Oba Waliu Olasunkanmi and Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs & Rural Development, Hon. Bolaji Robert during the official inauguration of the newly built Administrative Block in Ibeju-Lekki LG, ... yesterday
AbDUl’Aziz ABuBAKAR YARI
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Tinubu: The Difference is Leadership
It’s been very interesting keeping tabs on some of the conversations stoked by President Bola Tinubu’s scorecards in two years in office. The engagements have been quite entertaining to say the least. The supporters, the critics and the cynics – all have established their respective but differing positions with justification.
While one could see where a genuine critic is coming from since the basis for constructive criticism is to make one get better at what one is doing, no individual can do any good in the sight of cynics, even when in the estimation of any right-thinking person, the basis for his cynicism is flawed.
But an honest supporter, not sycophant, is the only one who will goad you on in the face of challenges, tells you what is wrong without making a public show of it and provides you the shoulder to lean on and as well guides you through the many difficult phases.
Nigeria, no doubt, is a blessed country. Her natural endowments – human and material – are almost limitless through sheer grace. Yet, she is the most difficult country to govern because of the many tendencies and palpable fault lines.
Interestingly, the last two years of President Tinubu has confirmed one thing – a long agreed problem of the country – leadership! It is the only distinguishing difference between him and many of his predecessors.
Whether you are a critic, cynic or supporter –one thing you cannot deny President Tinubu is his leadership of purpose, characterised by vision, determination and the willpower to make hard choices and to also excel where many feared to fail.
It will be foolhardy, therefore, for anyone, the supporters especially, to not admit that there’s an evident room for improvement or see that there are areas we can actually do better than we are currently doing. After all, President Tinubu didn’t create any of the problems he’s fighting hard to solve for our collective good.
Other than that, there’s no debating the fact that the last two years of his administration have birthed good for Nigeria and this is to no other factor than LEADERSHIP!
Shall I start by reminding everyone that the removal of fuel subsidy, has saved the government over $10 billion in 2023 alone? It not only reduced fiscal strain and helped to redirect funds to other sectors, it halted the inherent fraud in the initiative. By unifying the foreign exchange market and naira’s floatation aimed at addressing distortions in the currency market, it has boosted foreign reserves to $38.1 billion by 2024 and achieved a trade surplus of N18.86 trillion for the country.
Under the Tinubu administration, Nigeria’s annual inflation rate fell to 23.71% in April 2025 from 24.23% in the preceding month. The most significant component of the inflation basket remained elevated but moderated to 21.26% from 21.79%
These figures signify stabilisation, albeit as a process, the immediate impact has been pivotal, too. The government’s cash transfer programme, which provides funds to the poorest households and benefits over 5.7 million households, is one
outreach that even the enemies cannot down play.
The Tinubu administration, as it currently stands, has recorded over 900,000 beneficiaries in the Presidential Loan and Grant Scheme; there’s been over 600,000 beneficiaries of the Students’ Loan Scheme, NELFUND; N70,000 minimum wage, and the NYSC monthly stipend increase from N33,000 to N77,000.
The free CNG kits distributed to thousands of commercial drivers across Nigeria with CNG buses rolled out in partnership with state governments, have led to a major drop in transport costs.
The President Tinubu administration also cleared over $10 Billion FX debt, federal account allocation to states growing by 60%, enabling more local development projects, N50 billion released to end the perennial ASUU strikes, and over 1,000 PHCs revitalised nationwide with an additional 5,500 undergoing upgrades.
So far, the administration has disbursed N75 Billion in palliative funds to states and LGs for food distribution and cash transfers. Over 150,000 youths are being trained in software development, tech support and data analysis under the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) project.
Also, over 20,000 affordable housing units under construction in the Renewed Hope Cities programme launched across Nigeria, with N200 billion in Loans to farmers and agro-processors.
Speaking further to facts and figures, over two million Nigerians are now connected to new digital infrastructure and community broadband hubs and public WiFi projects, 3.84% GDP growth in Q4 2024 (highest in 3 years).
Over $50 Billion in new FDI Commitments, Net Foreign Exchange Reserves up from $3.99 Billion (2023) to $23.11 Billion (2024), over $8 Billion in new oil and gas investments unlocked, and over $800 million realised in processing investments in solid minerals in 2024 and inflation as of April was down to 23.17%. These are statistics.
In enforcing fiscal discipline, the administration has reduced the nation’s fiscal deficit from 5.4% of GDP in 2023 to 3.0% in 2024, and the debt serviceto-revenue ratio dropped from nearly 100% in 2022 to under 40% by 2024.
The government also recorded over N6 trillion in revenue in Q1 2025, partly due to removing Ways & Means financing and fuel subsidies. These have not only shown fiscal discipline, they have become some tangible reliefs for the Nigerian people.
The administration is not oblivious of the scourge called corruption and has taken steps against it, including suspending former Humanitarian Affairs Minister, Betta Edu, in January 2024, over alleged fund diversion, signalling some commitment to accountability.
Interestingly, the administration has been working on expediting all pending investigations and prosecution of corrupt practices. In the same breath, relevant agencies have been collating reliable evidence on some of the subsisting corruption litigations.
In 2024, for example, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) secured a record-breaking 4,111 convictions. This turned out its biggest year in terms of success. Their recoveries included over N364 billion and significant amounts in foreign currencies, including $214.5 Million, $54,318.64, and 31,265 Euros.
With the final forfeiture of an Abuja estate measuring 150,500 square meters and containing 725 units of duplexes and other apartments, the EFCC achieved its single most significant asset recovery in 2025.
While the judiciary and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had faced criticisms for allegedly pandering to the ruling party affiliates, no one has produced any evidence confirming these.
Talk about security, the impression that the administration’s security architecture have been failing is not true. For the record, more than 13,500 terrorists, bandits, and insurgents have been neutralised and 7,000 arrested in the past year.
While there are still reports of abductions and violent attacks, the administration’s response to security concerns has paved the way for more food production and supply, since the farmers started to return to their farms.
The administration has also embarked on agricultural revolution, which included tractor procurement, fertiliser distribution, and increased mechanisation.
The government has continued to give requisite attention to its Regional Development drive and has succeeded in establishing Development Commissions across the six Geopolitical zones (South West, North West, North Central. North East, South East and the Niger Delta) to empower communities and accelerate developments.
Without a doubt, the economic reforms have been laying the foundation for long-term stability, with GDP growth at 4.6% in Q4 2024 and a Fitch B credit rating upgrade as evidence. Moody’s Investors’ Service latest upgrade of Nigeria’s rating from Caa1 to B3, with a stable outlook, also indicates that the Tinubu administration is on the right path.
Let it be clear that the government is not oblivious to some simmering discontents and hard times among the citizenry. The Tinubu administration
has committed over N2.2 trillion to infrastructure, with 440 road projects ongoing and 260 palliative road projects completed.
Some of the iconic road projects include the 700km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway aimed to connect Victoria Island to Calabar, to boost trade and tourism along the coast; the Sokoto-Badagry Highway, a 1,000-kilometer road to link the north and south, with a planned rail line in the median, to improve connectivity and trade, and the AbujaKaduna-Zaria-Kano Dual Carriageway.
The fact that rail lines are designed to integrate into the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Sokoto-Badagry Highway to provide alternative means of transportation on those routes, speaks to vision and foresight.
By the end of 2024, tax-to-GDP ratio rose from 10 per cent to over 13.5 per cent. Tax reforms were aimed to eliminate multiple taxation, protect low-income earners and support workers by expanding their disposable income.
Essential goods and services such as food, education, and healthcare to attract 0% VAT. Rent, public transportation, and renewable energy will be fully exempted from VAT to reduce household costs further. Working to end wasteful waivers. Through systemic implementation of reforms in the oil and gas sector (especially total commitment to the implementation the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), signed into law in 2021), the administration is steadily increasing Nigeria’s crude oil production, restoring investor confidence.
Production targets are being achieved, and positioned Nigeria as a more responsible and efficient oil-producing nation. Since 2023, oil production has increased to 1.7 million barrels per day, a significant departure from 2022 when it went as low as 1.2 barrels due to theft.
In what is considered as a strategic step towards addressing insecurity and environmental concerns in Nigeria’s forests, President Tinubu approved the establishment of a National Forest Guard in Nigeria.
The aim is to secure Nigeria’s 1,129 forests from terrorists, bandits, and other criminal elements, who use forests as hideouts, hence the new force is expected to flush out these criminal elements reclaim the forests. It is designed as a collaborative security endeavour between federal and state governments.
The administration’s demonstrable priorities are securing the nation, fixing the economy, and improving human capital development.
To be honest, the Tinubu leadership is already turning the corner for Nigeria by delivering bold reforms with evident results. It is, therefore, deserving to make a loud noise about President Tinubu’s scorecard as the nation celebrates Democracy Day today on June 12, two years after he assumed office.
The nation may not be close to her dream destination, she is definitely far from where she was coming, and this is for nothing but serious and focused leadership – the rare type being currently provided by Asiwaju Bola Tinubu!
•Yari, a former governor of Zamfara State, is the Senator for Zamfara West and Chairman, Senate Committee on Water Resources
