FG: Nigeria Attracted over $8bn in Deepwater Oil, Gas FIDs in Less Than One Year
Verheijen laments projected fall in Africa’s upstream capital from $340bn to $130bn Says indigenous firms’ equity in Nigeria’s gas assets now 83% Local oil service providers jostle for contracts in shell’s $5bn Bonga project that Nigeria attracted over $8 billion in deepwater oil and gas Final Investment Decisions (FIDs) in less than one year, underscoring recent
presidential actions to remove the existing bottlenecks in the sector. Speaking at the just concluded 2025 Africa CEO Forum in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, the
that Nigeria has recently focused on improved
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South-east Caucus: We’ll Quit PDP
First Bank’s Attempt to Get Stay of Execution against GHL’s Third Victory Dismissed
Continued on page 9
Okoye is Not Returned National Secretary
Offers pathway to peace, unity, stability Mbah: South-east must stand together Wabara: We’ve been trampled upon too many times Udenwa: We don’t want to be taken for granted any longer Secretariat staff, management decry crisis, support governors’ position
Udeh-Okoye, was not returned as PDP National Secretary. That was as the management and staff of the PDP national secretariat expressed concern over the state of the
Special Adviser on Energy to President Bola Tinubu, Olu Verheijen, explained
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Peter Uzoho in Lagos The federal government has disclosed
DANgoTE MEETs TrUMP iN DohA... President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote (L) in handshake US President, Donald Trump. He was among dignitaries introduced to Trump by Emir of Qatar during Trump’s visit to Qatar … yesterday
L-R: Consul General of Lebanon in Lagos, Mr. Jimmy Zakhia; Consul General of China in Lagos, Ms. Yan Yuqing; Consul General of Sierra Leone in Lagos, Ms. Beatrice Kallay; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; and First Lady, Dr. (Mrs.) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, with members of the Consular Corps to Nigeria resident in Lagos, during a diplomatic dinner in honour of the Governor at Vertigo Hotel, Victoria Island… Tuesday
AFriMA 2025: AU Awards host City right to Lagos, Nigeria, holds Nov 25-30... Page 33
Alex Enumah in Abuja Move by First Bank of Nigeria (FBN) Limited challenging the victory of General Hydrocarbon Limited (GHL), has failed, following the dismissal of its suit by a Federal High Court in Port Harcourt.
Chuks okocha in Abuja
The crisis plaguing the opposition Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) got messier yesterday, as the South-east caucus of the party threatened to quit en masse if its nominee, Hon. Sunday
The state oil company of Brazil, Petrobras, is seeking to re-enter Nigeria’s oil sector, with a specific interest in frontier deepwater acreage.
As the economic reforms of the administration of President Bola Tinubu take root, the company, which had previously wound down its operations in Nigeria at the Agbami Field, is now actively engaging with Nigerian authorities as part of broader efforts to revitalise bilateral cooperation ahead of the 2025 Nigeria-Brazil Strategic Dialogue Mechanism (SDM).
This formed part of the discussions yesterday, during the inter-ministerial review meeting chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the State House, Abuja, to coordinate Nigeria’s preparations for the second session of the SDM scheduled for June 2025.
Speaking at the meeting, Shettima said, “The presence of six ministers and the Solicitor-General of the federation in this review meeting ahead of the second session of the Nigeria-Brazil Strategic Dialogue Mechanism shows the importance we have attached to our relationship with Brazil.
“We have not maximally capitalised on the fraternity between us and Brazil, but it is better late than never. The upcoming SDM presents an opportunity to execute sector-specific Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs)
and unlock investment flows.”
The vice president particularly noted that 2025 represents a critical moment of interface with Brazil, emphasising that the convergence of international events provides Nigeria a unique opportunity to advance its interests on the global stage.
“This year is our moment of interface with Brazil. Brazil is hosting so many global events this year, from the BRICS Summit to the G20 Summit and COP30. This convergence of events provides us with a unique opportunity to advance our interests on the global stage,” he added.
Shettima commended the ministers for their passion and aggression in pursuing Nigeria’s national interest, noting that “there is a sea change in our attitude, disposition, and commitment.”
Earlier, Foreign Affairs Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, confirmed ongoing engagements with Petrobras, saying, “Apart from Ethanol, which they are hoping to engage the NNPCL for blending, Petrobras is also being actively engaged, and we expect they will form part of the delegation to Nigeria. Petrobras is no longer active in Nigeria, but they are very keen
on coming back to Nigeria. They said they want frontier acreage in deep waters.”
Tuggar, further reported that Brazil’s preparations for the dialogue are well advanced, with both government agencies and private sector players being actively engaged by the Brazilian Vice President.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which is coordinating the interministerial working groups, has compiled at least 12 draft MOUs covering areas such as energy, health, culture, and agriculture, pending approval from the Ministry of Justice.
Also speaking, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, emphasised the historical and ancestral connections between Nigeria and Brazil, noting that a significant percentage of Brazilians trace their roots to Nigeria.
“We must not only preserve this relationship but deepen it. We’ve finalised MOUs with the Nigerian Film Corporation on audiovisual co-productions, the National Gallery of Arts for joint exhibitions, and the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation ahead of FESTAC at 50 next year,” Musawa said.
On agriculture, Minister of Agriculture, Senator Abubakar Kyari, outlined completed MOUs focused on research collaborations.
“We have finalised MOUs that focus on research in three areas of soybean value chain development, cassava research and technology transfer and agro-forestry systems, which promote integrated crop and livestock models and erosion control and climate adaptation,” he added. The minister noted that these efforts build on the previously signed Green Imperative Project (GIP) agreement between Nigeria and Brazil.
NSIB Clarifies Role in Wigwes’ Helicopter Crash Investigation
Kasim Sumaina in Abuja
Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has clarified its role in the investigation of the helicopter crash that killed former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Access Holdings, Herbert Wigwe; his wife, Doreen; their son, Chizi; and former NGX Group Chairman, Abimbola Ogunbanjo.
NSIB also responded to recent concerns regarding the safety of Nigerian airports.
The senate yesterday passed for second reading the N1.7 trillion 2025 Appropriation Bill for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This was sequel to the reading of a letter from President Bola Tinubu seeking the consideration and approval of the proposed money bill.
The letter was read on the floor of the red chamber by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, moved for the first and second readings of the bill on the same legislative day, urging the senate to fast-track its passage.
Leading the debate, Bamidele explained that the bill was for the services of the FCT for the financial year starting January 1 and ending December 31, 2025.
Bamidele said the FCT Appropriation Bill sought to authorise the issuance of N1,783,823,708,392.00 from
the FCT Administration’s Statutory Revenue Fund.
He said N150,353,906,168.00 was allocated for personnel cost; N343,779,677,448.00 for overheads; while the remaining N1,289,690,124,776.00 was earmarked for capital projects.
The senate leader said the budget was designed to ensure the completion of ongoing projects that directly impacted infrastructure and the wellbeing of FCT residents.
He added, “A few new projects, which were deemed necessary, were also included in the budget.”
During the debate on the general principles of the bill, at the Committee of Supply, several senators commended the FCT minister, Nyesom Wike, for his efforts in improving the capital territory.
The senator for Lagos West, Idiat Adebule, highlighted the focus on education in the budget.
Commenting on the investigation into the helicopter crash, DirectorGeneral of NSIB, Captain Alex Bade Jr., during an interview on Arise News Channel, tried to correct the widely held impression that the bureau worked “side-by-side” with the United States National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
“We were an interested party, and were kept abreast of the process by the NTSB, who led the investigation in the US,” Bade clarified.
The NTSB report had indicated that the probable cause of the accident was spatial disorientation.
Bade stated that the report also highlighted deficiencies in the helicopter company’s oversight and safety management processes.
He said, “It appears there were systemic issues, and the flight risk assessment should have indicated a higher risk.
“While it’s easy to blame the pilot, there is a system behind the pilot that should have mitigated these risks.”
In response to a statement from the U.S. State Department suggesting that Nigerian airports were generally unsafe, Bade said, “While there is always room for improvement,
Adebule said, “Educate a child, educate a nation.”
She expressed optimism that the impact of such investment would soon be felt across the society.
Senator Abdul Ningi remarked that under the current administration, “Abuja is beginning to look like an urban city of 21st-century Africa.”
Ningi called for oversight of the revenue and expenditure of the FCT.
In a similar vein, Senator Peter Nwaebonyi acknowledged the increased attention to infrastructure within the capital city, but called for the development of communities around the Abuja Airport.
Nwaebonyi said, “The aerial view from an airplane when descending is an eyesore, it doesn’t give a good image of the country.
“I think the FCT minister should capture in their next project or rather relocate the inhabitants of the people living in the airport and environs.”
Sunday Okobi
The federal government has appointed the President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Dele Kelvin Oye, and other key stakeholders as members of an Oversight Committee for Nigeria’s
the NSIB does not concur with the assessment that Nigerian airports are generally unsafe.”
According to Bade Jr., it is crucial to consider the context and metrics used in such evaluations.
However, he acknowledged that challenges, such as perimeter fencing and instances of wildlife intrusion, existed at some airports.
Bade emphasised that the challenges were not peculiar to Nigeria and occurred at airports globally, including in the United States.
He stated, “It’s unfair to generalise that our airports are totally unsafe. We recognise the need for continuous improvement, and we commend the efforts of the Federal Airports
Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) in implementing upgrades.”
In a statement yesterday by the agency regarding a recent incident in Asaba, where an aircraft was reported to have encountered animals on the runway, Bade said, “The aircraft was fine and continued its journey to Abuja without any damage.
“The incident was reported to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). Since there was no significant issue, it was not reported to the NSIB.
“However, we plan to reach out to the private entity managing the airport to discuss best practices.”
He further stated that such occurrences “involving animals on runways are rare in Nigeria”.
Nkwocha said the Oversight Committee would be chaired by the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia,
forum would feature paper presentations, panel discussions, exhibitions, MSME pitching contests, and award presentations to outstanding Nigerian entrepreneurs.
L-R: Country Director, Nigeria, Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council, Mr. Obinna Anyanwu welcoming the President of South Africa, H.E. Cyril Ramaphosa, with a delegate at the Africa CEO Forum 2025 in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire… recently
while other members of the committee include the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; Minister of Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani; Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hon. Hannatu Musawa; and Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator John Owan Enoh.
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
AFRICA CEO FORUM...
Country Director Nigeria Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council , Obinna Anyanwu; welcoming the President of South Africa, H.E. Cyril Ramaphosa; with a delegate to the Africa CEO Forum 2025 in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire… recently
All Nigerians to Be Enrolled to NIMC Databank Before End of Year
120m Nigerians enrolled so far, says Coker-Odusote
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
No fewer than 120 million Nigerians have been enrolled so far by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).
NIMC Director-General, Abisoye Coker-Odusote, disclosed the figure on Wednesday in Abuja while addressing the media.
has been set.
The agency also disclosed plans to move the enrolment to various wards in the country as part of efforts to get all Nigerians enrolled, insisting that a target of enrolling all Nigerians before the end of 2025
Coker-Odusote said the target of enrolment of all Nigerians into the NIMC databank by the end of the year had been set.
She stated, “Our systems have moved from 100 million capacity to about 250 million due to the
upgrade and launch of various digital platforms to support our services in line with international standards and best practices.
“That is why I can assure you that before the end of this year, NIMC will have enrolled all Nigerians and residents. We have moved from
local government areas to wards and communities to ensure that we have seamless enrolment.”
She also revealed that the agency had in the past 18 months embarked on the training and reorientation of its workers to ensure efficient and effective service delivery in all
Aliko Dangote Exchanges Handshake with Trump in Qatar
Africa’s richest person, Aliko Dangote, was among those who exchanged pleasantries with American President, Donald Trump, during yesterday’s visit to Qatar,
THISDAY has learnt. A video in circulation showed Dangote being introduced to the American President during the visit by the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim
bin Hamad Al Thani.
Earlier, the Emir personally welcomed Trump upon his arrival at Hamad International Airport, marking the beginning of the
Senate Confirms Appointments of Five New INEC RECs
Amends South East Development Commission Act
The Senate on Wednesday confirmed the appointment of five individuals as Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The confirmation followed the consideration of a report by the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, which screened the nominees.
Senator Simon Lalong, Chairman of the Committee, presented the report during plenary.
The screening exercise was con-
ducted on Tuesday, May 6, under the former chairman of the Committee, Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Ali.
The newly confirmed RECs are Umar Yusuf Garba (Kano); Sa’ad Umar Idris (Bauchi); Chukwuemeka Ibeziako (Anambra); Umar Mukhtar (Borno) and Dr. Johnson Alalibo Simikiem (Bayelsa).
Following their confirmation, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, urged the appointees to justify the trust placed in them by the president through dedication and integrity in the discharge of their duties.
Akpabio said: “With the calibre of nominees confirmed today, the President has once again infused capable hands into INEC.”
“It is expected that they will contribute significantly to strengthening the Commission’s processes and overall performance.”
Meanwhile, the Senate yesterday passed a Bill to amend the South East Development Commission Act through second reading.
The amendment is to align it with provisions of other regional commission bills.
Era of Military Interventions Must Remain in Nigeria’s Past
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
A former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, yesterday argued that in spite of the imperfections in Nigeria’s democracy, the era of military rule must remain behind Nigeria.
Gowon stated this in Abuja at the unveiling of a book titled: “Military Factor in Nigerian History, 1960-2018”, by the Historical Society of Nigeria (HSN), as part of activities to mark the association’s 70th anniversary.
He said that while the military
and its various regimes had contributed monumentally to the peace and economic development of Nigeria, it must continue to support the advancement of democracy and national development.
“The era of military governance is and must remain behind us. Democracy, despite its imperfections, provides the best framework for national development and popular participation.
“The armed forces must fully embrace their constitutional role as defenders of the nation’s territorial
integrity, not as administrators or political actors,’’ he said.
Gowon, who chaired the occasion said that the military factor in Nigerian history is neither a simple story of heroism nor villainy. He described it as a complex narrative of an institution that had been deeply intertwined with the country’s national journey.
The former head of state observed that the question of whether the military has been a hero or villain in Nigeria’s development journey is perhaps the most contested.
second leg of Trump’s Middle East tour. The reception included a fighter jet escort for Air Force One and a motorcade featuring Tesla Cybertrucks.
Following his arrival, Trump and Al Thani participated in a signing ceremony for a significant agreement between Qatar Airways and Boeing. The deal involved the purchase of up to 210 Boeing jets, valued at approximately $96 billion, making it one of the largest orders in Boeing’s history.
The visit also garnered attention due to Qatar’s offer of a luxurious Boeing 747-8 jet, estimated at $400
million, intended as a potential replacement for Air Force One. This gesture sparked bipartisan debate in the United States regarding the ethics and legality of accepting such gifts from foreign governments.
In the video, Dangote was seen familiarising himself with the US leader before he (Dangote) moved over to greet the Emir.
It’s unclear what specific issues were discussed between the billionaire businessman and the US President, but Trump was accompanied by a delegation of prominent American business leaders, including Elon Musk.
aspects of their operations.
She further disclosed that through collaboration and partnerships with about 120 Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of government, the country’s National Social Register had been updated and 2.3 million Nigerians had been verified and revalidated.
Coker-Odusote explained, “Within the past 18 months, we have been able to cover lots of ground. Besides the ongoing integration of the Civil Service and Agencies under the ministries, we have also integrated the private sector, especially banks and Telcos.
“This development has helped to eliminate fake new sites and fake sites for NIN registration by some sharks. NIN is now tied to the school feeding programme, student loans programme, and disbursement of government social welfare packages.
“The government has been able to cut waste and eliminate identity fraud and corruption within the system. What we are advocating is that citizens should take responsibility for the safety and protection of their data.”
Over N847 million was generated for the federal government at the Seme (the Nigeria-Benin) border by the Nigeria Customs Service in April 2025 alone
Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, Comptroller of Customs, Seme Area Command, Dr. Ben Oramalugo, said, “Seme Area Command, through commitment and professionalism, generated a total revenue of Eight Hundred and Forty-Seven Million, Fifty-Eight Thousand, Eight Hundred and Seventy-Nine Naira, Thirty Kobo (N847,058,879.30k) for the month of April 2025 alone.
“This achievement reflects our sustained efforts at ensuring that all revenue leakages are blocked, and every legitimate kobo due to the federal government is collected without compromise.”
Oramalugo added, “In line with the federal government’s agenda on economic diversification through nonoil exports, the Command facilitated
the movement of Two Thousand and Twenty-Nine (2,029) trucks, equivalent to over Eight Eight metric tonnes (88,036.15) of made-in-Nigeria goods.
“These exports had a Free On Board (FOB) value of sixteen billion, nine hundred million, nine hundred and eighty-seven thousand, three hundred and thirty-one naira and ten kobo (N16,900,987,331.10k) only.
While the National Export Supervision Scheme (NESS) fees stood at eighty-four million, five hundred and four thousand, nine hundred and ninety-six naira and sixty-six kobo (N84,504,936.66k) only.”
He said, “This underscores our role as a critical trade enabler and contributor to national economic growth through efficient border management and support to local manufacturers.
Oramalugo warned the general public on the activities of fraudsters who impersonated officers of the Seme Area Command, claiming to auction or sell vehicles.
He said, “These scammers often operate via social media and other
informal platforms. The Command dissociates itself from any such illegal activity…
“Please note that the Nigeria Customs Service does not sell or auction seized items via WhatsApp groups, Facebook pages, or any unverified platforms. Only follow verified social media handles bearing the official blue tick or any communication directly from the Nigeria Customs Service.”
Oramalugo said, “We remain fully committed to our mandate of revenue generation, trade facilitation, and suppression of smuggling. We shall not be deterred by mischief-makers or their propaganda. The Command will continue to work diligently in the interest of national economic development and security.
“Additionally, we appeal to parents and guardians residing in border communities to counsel their wards and youths to refrain from engaging in smuggling activities and to avoid being used as instruments to obstruct law enforcement officers in the discharge of their legitimate duties.”
L-R:
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
COURTESY CALL ON THE SENATE PRESIDENT...
Qatar Airways Seals $200bn Aircraft Deal with Boeing as Trump Arrives Doha
Duro Ikhazuagbe in Doha Qatar and the United States of America on Wednesday sealed deals to boost defence and trade ties.
US President Donald Trump arrived Doha on the second stop of his four-day Middle East trip, which began in Saudi Arabia.
Both Trump and the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, witnessed the signing of the Qatar Airways’ purchase of 160 Boeing jets from America worth over $200billion.
THISDAY Sports Editor, Duro Ikhazuagbe, who is in the city for the World Athletics’ Third Meeting of the 2025 Diamond League scheduled for Friday, May 16, reports that Trump’s Air Force One aircraft was escorted into Doha by Qatar’s F15 fighter jets.
The American leader flew into the Qatari capital from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where the first leg of his four-day trip to the Gulf Region witnessed the signing of weapons sale agreements with the kingdom, plus billions of dollars’ worth of commercial contracts.
Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, received the American president on the tarmac of the Hamad International Airport at about 2.20pm (12.20pm in Nigeria).
Top Qatari government and business leaders joined the Emir to receive the August visitor before heading out in The Beast limousine for the Amiri Diwan Palace in Lusail, the seat of government in Qatar.
A visibly impressed Trump told
his host Emir that he had done very well for his country. “You did a great job,” observed the American leader. Before they entered into a closeddoor meeting, clips of their discussions on state television showed the Emir telling Trump that as a man of peace, he should help to bring peace to the Gulf region.
“I know that you are a man of peace,” the Emir said.
Replying, Trump promised to help stabilise the region by ensuring that peace reigned there.
“We’ll bring peace, not only here, but I know you’re very much involved in helping us in other regions, like what’s happening with Russia-Ukraine,” the Emir said.
Trump, the first US president in 20 years to visit Qatar, marvelled at the architecture of the luxurious Amiri Diwan Palace.
Trump told his host, “The job you’ve done (here) is second to none. You look at this, it’s so beautiful. As a construction person, I’m seeing perfect marble. This is what they call perfecto. Then Trump settled down to the business of why he was in Doha. The two leaders later went into a closed-door meeting that was likely to centre on lifting sanctions on some members of the Gulf region, most especially Syria.
Before Trump’s visit to Doha, Qatar had pledged to gift the American leader a brand-new Boeing 747-8 luxury aircraft valued at $400 million. The plane, which would be one of the most valuable gifts ever received by the USA government, is to be outfitted
to serve as replacement for the present 40-year-old Air Force One.
Several critics, however, reacted to the gift with suspicion, with most of them on social media asking what Qatar wanted in return for the gift to America.
Trump was clearly enjoying his time in the Middle East, being feted by royalty as he visited some of the
wealthiest nations on earth, striking lucrative deals as he went.
He argued that it was the kind of commercial contacts that will help the Middle East overcome a history of violent conflict
While travelling from Riyadh to Doha, Trump told reporters on board Air Force One that he was willing to head to Turkey for talks on Ukraine
if his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin also travelled there.
The US president said he did not know if Putin would attend, “if I’m not there”.
“I know he would like me to be there, and that’s a possibility. If we could end the war, I’d be thinking about that,” Trump said in the televised report aboard Air Force One.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio was expected to attend the Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Turkey on Thursday, a US official previously announced. Trump had given hope to the conflict in Syria, when he said in Riyadh that he would lift economic sanctions on Syria, and he briefly met the new Syrian president for the first time before leaving for Qatar.
Shettima: Tinubu Making Frantic Efforts to Fix Nigeria’s Economy
Says
Deji Elumoye
president
engineering a nation that’ll work for generations yet unborn
Vice President Kashim Shettima has said the difficult but very crucial decisions taken by the administration of President Bola Tinubu are targeted at engineering an economy that works for the Nigerian people.
According to him, like engineers who must rely on the power of numbers with consummate exactitude, efficiency, and alignment, the administration is taking accurate measurement of revenues, deficits and prospects to move the nation forward.
The vice president who spoke Wednesday during the 15th Mechanical Engineering Distinguished Lecture
FG Initiates Investment Platform to Mobilise $500m in Climate Finance
Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja and Nume Ekeghe in Lagos
The federal government has unveiled the Nigerian Climate Investment Platform (NCIP), a country-led initiative to mobilise up to $500 million in climate finance for infrastructure, resilience, and adaptation projects.
The NCIP which is a bold move towards unlocking green finance and drive sustainable economic growth was unveiled yesterday at a high-level meeting in Abuja between the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; officials of the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA), the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), and the Green Climate Fund (GCF).
At the meeting, Edun stated that the NSIA has the trust and track record to lead the initiative, emphasising the importance of
leveraging climate finance opportunities to drive growth, boost export competitiveness, and support key sectors like agriculture, infrastructure, and digital innovation.
“If accreditation is the last hurdle, I’m confident they’re ready. The global economic environment demands that we leverage all opportunities—climate finance included—to drive growth, boost export competitiveness, and support sectors like agriculture, infrastructure, and digital innovation,” a statement issued by the Director, Information and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Finance, Mohammed Manga said. in a statement.
The NCIP’s development has been a collaborative effort, with the NSIA working closely with the GCF and local stakeholders to create a structure that can attract both international and domestic capital.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of NSIA, Mr. Aminu
Umar-Sadiq, said: “The Honourable Minister’s challenge to conceptualise and implement a credible investment platform has catalysed this effort. We’ve worked with the GCF and local stakeholders to develop a structure that can attract both international and domestic capital.”
Speaking on behalf of the GCF, Mr. Soji Omisore added, “We currently have no standalone project focused solely on Nigeria. That needs to change. We are here to co-create a country platform that aligns with Nigeria’s climate strategy.
On her part, Director-General of the NCCC, Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe stressed the urgency of increasing Nigeria’s access to international climate finance. *Countries far smaller than Nigeria have multiple accredited entities. That needs to change. We are pushing for the NSIA, NASRDA, and even the Ministry of Finance to pursue accreditation,” she said.
(MEDL) at the Shehu Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja, likened the art of governance to the dexterity of engineers who work with machines and structures to transform theories into measurable outcomes.
He said: “President Bola Tinubu, is himself a man of numbers. An accountant extraordinaire, a thinker grounded in the discipline of evidence, and a leader governed by the clarity of facts.
“He understands the peril of building policies on the sands of assumption. He knows, as you do, that the nation cannot move forward without accurate measurement of its revenues, its deficits, and its prospects”.
Reflecting on the theme of the Lecture, “The Imperative of Engineering Strategies for the Planning of National Budget,” Shettima said it aligns with the thinking being institutionalised by the Tinubu administration, which he said is not just budgeting for survival
but also for transformation and reality.
“We are budgeting for transformation. We are building systems that speak to productivity, to sustainability, and to prosperity,” he added.
For President Tinubu, the Vice President said, it is the “fidelity to facts that has guided his difficult but necessary decisions to fix the Nigerian economy”.
“From confronting the longstanding subsidy regime that had become an enduring shackle around the nation’s ambitions, to facing the grim realities of a debt-to-revenue ratio that threatened the very foundation of our fiscal stability.
“These are not decisions of convenience. They are decisions of courage. They are born of a commitment to engineer a nation that works for its people,” he maintained.
Delivering the 15th Mechanical Engineering Distinguished Lecture, former National Secretary of the ruling
All Progressives (APC), Senator Iyiola Omisore, spoke about current efforts and opportunities across diverse areas of the Nigerian economy, particularly, energy and power generation; oil and gas; automotive, aerospace and aviation; construction and infrastructure development, as well as healthcare and security.
He noted the tremendous potential for socio-economic development in the country and the need for government, in collaboration with other stakeholders like the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, to address challenges and seize existing opportunities to achieve sustainable development and inclusive growth.
Also speaking, Chairman of the occasion and former governor of Osun State, Chief Bisi Akande, emphasized the impact of engineering on national development, urging leaders to sustain current efforts to maintain integrity and professionalism in the industry.
Constituency Projects: FG to Ensure Transparency, Accountability in Execution
The Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, and the Office Accountant General of the Federation have held a strategy meeting on how to implement guidelines that will ensure more transparency and accountability in the execution of Zonal Intervention and Constituency Projects (ZIP/CP) funded by the federal government.
Under the revised guideline issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, dated 20th September, 2023, all ZIP/CP must be duly certified and approved by the
Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs before any payments are made to contractors.
A statement signed by Head, Press and Public Relations Unit of the Ministry of Intergovernmental Affairs, Maryam Mohammed, said the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Onwusoro Maduka Ihemelandu, on Tuesday, met with the Accountant General of the Federation, Mr. Shamsudeen Babatunde, at the Treasury House, Abuja.
The meeting focused on how best to collaborate to ensure strict adherence to a new guideline issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation
which outlined revised guidelines on the implementation of zonal intervention projects and constituency projects Maryam Mohammed said the meeting was aimed at fostering stronger inter-agency collaboration and enhancing transparency and accountability in the implementation of Zonal Intervention and Constituency Projects (ZIP/CP). During the visit, Ihemelandu presented a newly issued circular from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, dated 20th September, 2023 to the Accountant General, which outlined revised guidelines on the implementation of ZIP/CP.
in Abuja
L-R: Chairman, Senate Committee on Navy, Senator Gbenga Daniel; Chairman, National Population Commission, Nasir Isa Kwarra; President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio; Chairman, Senate Committee on Population, Senator Victor Umeh; and Chairman, North Central Development Commission, Mr. Titus Zam, during a courtesy call on the Senate President by the commission, yesterday
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
Bagudu: Nigeria’s Economy Undergoing Major Turnaround, Driven By Bold Reforms
Says reform-driven economy has witnessed four consecutive quarters of growth, exchange rate stability, resurgence in private sector confidence UK: Despite hardship, Nigeria’s economic reforms necessary for future growth, stability
Deji Elumoye and Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, yesterday declared that Nigeria’s economy was witnessing a significant turnaround, driven by bold reforms, improved coordination, and a renewed focus on national priorities.
This was as the United Kingdom yesterday, commended economic reforms being carried out by the President Bola Tinubu’s administration
The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery gave the commendation at a press conference on UK-Nigeria trade in Abuja.
In an interview for an upcoming TV documentary to mark President Bola Tinubu’s second anniversary, the Bagudu, in a statement by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, affirmed that the government’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda,’ was working and winning investors at home and abroad.
“This is two years well spent,” Bagudu confidently stated, reaffirming the government’s commitment to the economic reforms.
“Mr. President confronted Nigeria’s
economic realities with bold and necessary choices—tough as they might be—and those measures are now yielding results,” he added.
Bagudu noted that the reformdriven economy has seen four consecutive quarters of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth, exchange rate stability, and a resurgence in private sector confidence.
His words: “We have seen four quarters of successive economic growth, stability in foreign exchange, and appreciation by Nigerians and the international community. Rating agencies have consistently appreciated what we are doing.”
He added that foreign and domestic investors have responded positively to the government’s economic agenda, particularly in agriculture, energy, and infrastructure.
“We have seen investors from Brazil, Belarus, and Saudi Arabia increasingly entering our agricultural space. The world economic community and multilateral institutions are putting more faith in our economy.”
According to the Minister, the renewed interest stems from the administration’s commitment to credibility, transparency, and structural change.
“Investors want to see good
Sou TH -e AST cA ucu S : w e’ LL Qu IT
party, lamenting that in the last one year, the party has been engulfed in a disturbing leadership crisis, particularly, over the office of National Secretary.
Speaking on the plight of the Southeast in PDP, Enugu State Governor and leader of the PDP in the zone,
Dr. Peter Mbah, said it was time for the zone to speak with one voice.
Chairman of PDP Board of Trustees (BoT), Senator Adolphus Wabara, and former governor of Imo State, Chief Achike Udenwa, also expressed anger over what they described as
FIrST BAnk’S ATTempT To GeT STAY oF execuTIon AGAInST GHL’S THIrD VIcTorY DISmISSeD
Justice E. A. Obile in a judgment dismissed the suit for lacking in merit, after vacating his earlier orders for the arrest and detention of the crude oil cargo on board the Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) Vessel, Tamara Tokoni, belonging to General Hydrocarbons Ltd (GHL).
Recall that the court had on January 9, ordered the arrest and detention of the product on FPSO vessel following an exparte application by BasedFBN. on the orders of the court the vessel was arrested by the Navy while on the high sea.
According to the ruling, the order was made “pending the provision of a satisfactory guarantee from a first class Nigerian bank in the sum of $19,752,304.84 plus interest and costs by the said defendants to secure the plaintiff’s claim herein, until this Honourable Court otherwise orders.”
The defendants are GHL, the cargo of crude oil on board FPSO Tamara Tokoni, its owners/operators and the master of the vessel.
However, the defendants in an application filed on February 18, had asked the court to vacate the arrest and detention order, on the grounds that it has elapsed by operation of law pursuant to Order _ 26 Rule 10 of the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules 2019, having not been heard within fourteen (14) days of filing the Applicants’ application.
After listening to arguments for and against the motion to vacate the January 9 order, the court held that the application succeeded and subsequently granted the reliefs sought.
“That order is made setting aside and vacating the Order of this Honourable Court granted on January 9, 2025.
“That order is made setting aside and vacating the warrant of arrest and detention ‘order granted by this Honourable Court against the Defendants on January 9”, the court held.
Justice Obile further stated that he came to the inevitable conclusion that “the Plaintiff’s suit is lacking in merits and is hereby dismissed”.
A Certified True Copy (CTC)
of the court’s ruling issued by a Registrar of the court, Chukwuka Ngozi, dated March 27 and sighted by our correspondent Wednesday night, however showed that the judge made no order as to cost.
Meanwhile, the court in another ruling delivered on April 29, dismissed three motions on notice following application for their withdrawal and ordered service of same on the Deputy Chief Registrar/ Admiralty Marshall for service on parties who apply for them.
“That the application to withdraw Motions on Notice dated and filed March 25, 2025; dated and filed on March 28, 2025 and dated and filed on April 2, 2025 is granted as prayed.
“That the applications are hereby dismissed accordingly.
“That the Deputy Chief Registrar/ Admiralty Marshall is directed to serve parties who apply for the Orders of the Court with same including the instant order.
It would be recalled that FBN had obtained a Mareva injunction from the Federal High Court in Lagos restraining all banks in Nigeria from releasing funds to GHL and its directors Nduka Obaigbena, Efe Damilola Obaigbena and Olabisi Eka Obaigbena.
The bank claimed it extended several credit facilities to GHL for the development of some oil mining lease assets, adding that while it diligently performed its obligations under the loan agreements, GHL allegedly breached them, but FBN has so far failed to provide any evidence of the breaches.
However, GHL denied owing First Bank and accused it of abusing the court process after getting benefits and profiting from the relationship.
The company said it signed the agreement believing and trusting that FirstBank would comply with its obligations to fund OML 120, “but it has clearly not done so”.
GHL has already dragged FBN to arbitration for several breaches and damages. But FBN has been trying to use the courts to stall the arbitration proceedings but has lost in all its attempts. The arbitration is under way
policy—can I get paid back? Are the numbers credible? Is the environment transparent? That’s why they appreciate when they see quarterly GDP growth,” he said.
“For the first time in 25 years, Nigeria is refining oil. Mr. President was courageous enough to allow crude oil sale in naira to our refiners. This is a testament to his belief in our economy,” he added.
Bagudu described removing fuel subsidies and unifying the foreign exchange market as transformative decisions restoring fiscal sanity.
“We were losing five percent of our GDP on fuel subsidy—money going to just a few,” he said. “Mr. President took the courageous step to end it.”
“The foreign exchange reform removed uncertainty and favouritism. We now have a fair market—willing buyer, willing seller—which has generated revenue growth and boosted private sector confidence.”
Bagudu said the 2024 and 2025 budgets made fiscal responsibility and strategic investment in priority sectors.
“We have increased spending in health, education, infrastructure, security, and technology. The 2024 budget achieved significant deficit
the party’s disrespect for the region.
The geopolitical zone vented its displeasure in a communique read by the zonal chairman, Chief Ali Odefa, at the end of a meeting of the South East Zonal Executive, at Government House, Enugu.
It said the meeting was convened to nominate a candidate to complete the remaining term in the position of National Secretary in line with the directive of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) during its 600th meeting in Abuja.
Odefa said, “The South East ZEC exhaustively deliberated on the directive of the NWC and came to the conclusion that it offered a sure pathway to peace, unity, stability, and progress of our party.
“Consequently, the ZEC unanimously recommended Hon. Sunday Udeh-Okoye as the candidate to complete the term of office of the National Secretary.”
The South East PDP regretted that it had to go through the process of nominating Udeh-Okoye several times
President on Energy, Senan Murray, noted that as a result of these reforms, including the restructuring which is enabling gas-to-power commercial viability, “We moved from gridlock to greenlight, and investors responded.”
Delivering her message to policymakers, investors, and industry leaders across the continent, Verheijen insisted that “Capital is not African or foreign”, explaining that “It is rational; and Africa must compete for it.”
Multi-billion-dollar deepwater and LNG projects are global capital territory, Verheijen said, and Africa must partner smartly, not from dependency, but from aligned strategic interest.
Citing the fact that Africa attracted $340 billion in upstream capital between 2011 and 2015, a figure expected to drop to less than $130 billion by 2026–2030, she described it as “not a funding winter”, but “a structural decimation.”
According to Verheijen, capital is increasingly going to projects with strong economics, low carbon intensity, and predictable governance—the factors attracting billions of dollars in new investment to the Permian Basin, Guyana, and Brazil.
She argued that if Africa wants a larger slice of the $500 billion in global upstream spend annually, it must offer the same clarity and competitiveness.
Verheijen noted that Nigeria has been able to prove that this approach works. “In under a year, Nigeria
reduction, and more importantly, it showed that we are serious—and the markets believed us,” he added. He emphasised Tinubu’s respect for the rule of law, even in managing inherited debt and central bank financing.
According to him, “Mr. President inherited N22.7 trillion in Ways and Means financing, but he insisted on respecting the central bank’s independence. That discipline is earning us credibility globally.”
The Minister credited the Presidential Economic Coordination Council and the Economic Management Team—led by President Tinubu and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Wale Edun— with ensuring coherent, results-driven governance.
His words: “This is teamwork.
The President is the chief coordinator. He understands the global economic context, and the private sector respects him. We’re not just doing government-to-government coordination—the private sector is part of this reform effort.”
While acknowledging that the reforms may feel challenging in the short term, Bagudu likened the process to a necessary fitness regimen.
“Our economy is like a body going to the gym. It might feel painful
now, but the muscles of progress are forming.
“Mr. President is saying: ‘I’m ready to take the pain so our children and grandchildren will inherit a more prosperous Nigeria.’ This isn’t just economic reform—it’s a moral responsibility,” Bagudu added.
Meanwhile, during the press conference, Montgomery pointed out though the reforms have brought high inflation and hardship, they were necessary for future growth and stability of the country.
He said: “President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms are working, and they have made Nigeria more investible.
“The Naira is now more stable and more predictable. And the last quarter Nigerian economy has grown by four percent.”
He also noted that the UK was also carrying out economic reforms that would be beneficial to Nigeria because they would make business investment’s more predictable, simplify regulations of doing business.
“We also have reforms in the UK economy and we are working on how they can benefit Nigeria.”
The Director General, Presidential Enabling Business Council (PENEC), Zahrah Mustapha Audu, on her part
nATI on
since October 2023. It urged the NWC to not only immediately ratify his nomination, but also ensure that Arch. Setonji Koshoedo effectively occupied the office of National Secretary in acting capacity pending Udeh-Okoye’s ratification by the PDP National Executive Committee (NEC).
The South East PDP threatened to review its membership of the party should its position suffer further delay, despite its age long loyalty to PDP.
The communique said, “The South East has consistently served as a stronghold of the PDP from inception. In PDP’s near three-decade existence, we have given our loyalty and all to the party.
“Currently, while the party has been losing key members post-2023 general election, the South East PDP is at the vanguard of strengthening the party by rallying major opposition figures such as in Enugu, where the Labour Party, LP, gubernatorial candidate, two LP House of Representatives members, numerous members of the House of Assembly, among
unlocked over $8 billion in deepwater oil and gas Final Investment Decisions (FIDs) through decisive presidential action, focused on improved fiscal terms, streamlined contracting timelines, greater clarity to local content rules, and power sector reforms enabling gas-to-power commercial viability,” she was quoted as saying.
Verheijen urged African investors, Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), banks, pension funds, and sovereigns—to be strategic in focus, and to strive to fill the vacuum left by International Oil Companies (IOCs), not just with funding, but with fit-for-purpose instruments and risk-sharing structures.
“Our sweet spot is onshore, shelf, and domestic gas. That’s where African players must dominate, because we understand the terrain, the risk, and the reward,” the presidential aide maintained.
She also celebrated the feats of African private sector champions, like Seplat, Oando and Renaissance, who she argued are no longer just “local players.”
Renaissance Africa Energy Consortium’s acquisition of Shell’s onshore JV, she said, represents “a symbolic transition from colonial-era concessions to indigenous control.”
On the new 650,000 barrels per day Dangote Refinery, the largest single-train refinery in the world, she said it was: “Built by African capital, African hands, and African
said the Naira was now more stable, which, according to her was good for investors.
She said: “This conversation is about investment and trade; to me the Naira is more stable because it’s more predictable and before my appointment as DG, I use to work with the president on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), as a technical adviser and I can tell you; one of the key things that investors look for is stability and predictability.
“People invest in Afghanistan not because it’s better than Nigeria. It was a war zone, but because it was predictable.
other stalwarts into the PDP fold.
“Therefore, we hope that this time around, the position of the South East PDP regarding the Office of the National Secretary is accorded the honour and immediacy it deserves.
This would bring to a closure the needless lingering dispute over the matter.
“However, in the event that our position is not promptly implemented by the party, the South East PDP, as a family, will be compelled to reconsider our relationship with the PDP going forward.”
Wabara said it was in order to review the region’s relationship with the party should what he described as trampling on the zone by the party persist.
He stated, “We have been trampled upon, not taken seriously. If such a position were vacant in the Southsouth, it would not be like this.
And now, it came to us. I mean, the usual thing is to play politics with the Igbo man. Yes, we may have to reconsider our stand as far
ambition,” noting that “this is not just infrastructure, it is proof that African industrial scale is not aspirational. It is operational.”
Seplat’s recent 390 mmcfd gas supply deal with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), she said, I’d “not just output”, but “energy security”.
“Nigeria’s attainment of an increase in indigenous equity in gas, from 69 per cent to 83 per cent, is not just a statistic but instead a seismic shift in ownership and control of Africa’s energy future,” the special adviser explained.
“But global capital still matters. International Oil Companies, which still account for over 50 per cent of production and capital expenditure in sub-Saharan Africa, are now showing signs of an evolving approach.
“They’re no longer chasing barrels. They’re chasing value: low-cost, lowcarbon, (and) de-risked assets. Let’s be realistic: Africa cannot negotiate terms on capital that hasn’t yet arrived. Investment must come first; returns and benefits will follow,” she pointed out.
Verheijen posited that Africa must move beyond sentiments, consciously pursue clarity in policy and be strategic in its intentions, insisting that nobody will give Africa the future, but that it must be built deliberately.
“We must move beyond appeals for support. Africa must become an investment destination by design;
as the party is concerned. But I trust the NWC.”
Udenwa also said, “We are expecting that this issue will be finally ironed out once and for all. We do not want to be taken for granted by anybody again.”
Meanwhile, staff of the PDP national secretariat in Abuja called on the acting National Chairman, Amb. Umar Iliya Damagum, to take all necessary steps to ensure that the NEC meeting held as scheduled, on May 27, to enable the party address pertinent issues and reassert its values of unity, discipline, loyalty and strict adherence to the provisions of the party’s constitution. The management and staff said they supported Koshoedo as acting national secretary of the party, and commended the BoT, NWC, the governors’ forum, and other stakeholders. They also pledged their continued loyalty and commitment to PDP. The management and staff said, in a joint statement, “After a thorough
anchored in policy clarity, commercial logic, and strategic intent. When we get that right, capital won’t hesitate, it will pursue us. The future will not be given to Africa. It must be built—deliberately, unapologetically, and on our terms,” she stated.
Meanwhile, Nigerian oil and gas service providers have started jostling for a share of contracts in three big projects currently ongoing in the nation’s upstream petroleum sector, including Shell’s $5 billion Bonga North and $122 million Iseni Gas Projects, as well as TotalEnergies’ $550 million Ubeta Gas Project.
Chairman of the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN), an umbrella body of the local service firms, Mr. Wole Ogunsanya, disclosed this to reporters during the PETAN Golf session at the just-concluded Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) held in Houston, Texas, USA. This was just as Ogunsanya, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Geoplex, revealed that Nigeria’s participation at the yearly OTC conference has attracted over $8 billion investments to the country’s oil and gas sector.
THISDAY recalls that three landmark FIDs in the Nigerian upstream oil and gas industry were announced in 2024 starting with the Iseni project in February, followed
Sen. Abubakar Atiku Bagudu
BENUE STATE GOVERNMENT
GOODWILL MESSAGE TO HIS EXCELLENCY, REV. FR. DR. HYACINTH IORMEM ALIA, EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF BENUE STATE, ON THE OCCASION OF HIS 59TH BIRTHDAY
HIS EXCELLENCY
REV. FR. DR. HYACINTH IORMEN ALIA EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR BENUE STATE
It is with immense joy, deep respect, and heartfelt gratitude that I, on behalf of the Management, and entire staff of the Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC), extend warm felicitations to you on the occasion of your 59th birthday anniversary.
This day marks not only another year of your life but a celebration of divine purpose, visionary leadership, and tireless service to humanity. Your Excellency, your emergence as Governor of Benue State at such a critical time in our history was divinely orchestrated. In just under two years, your focused leadership and people-centered governance have rekindled hope in the hearts of the Benue people and repositioned the state on the path of sustainable development.
At BIPC, we are proud to be direct beneficiaries of your reform-minded and transformative agenda. Your bold economic blueprint and unwavering resolve to strengthen institutions have breathed new life into the company. Under your watch, BIPC has witnessed unprecedented support and policy direction that have enhanced our operational framework, increased our investment portfolio, and improved corporate governance standards.
The establishment of the BIPC Bread, Water, Nylon Printing Press, Nails factories; ZEVA and Oyi Bitters, BIPC Green Wheels Taxis, as well as the ongoing construction of food basket brewery, etcetera are
laudable initiatives of your administration.
Your commitment to transparency and accountability in our dealings stand as testaments to your belief in the role of BIPC as a catalyst for economic empowerment and state development. You have not only entrusted us with the enormous responsibility of driving investment and wealth creation in Benue State but have consistently given us the tools, encouragement, and leadership to succeed.
I am personally grateful to you, Your Excellency, for the rare privilege and honor to serve as the Group Managing Director of BIPC. Your confidence in my ability to lead this noble institution is both humbling and inspiring. I remain fully committed to upholding the vision you have set forth and to ensuring that BIPC continues to serve as a vehicle for economic transformation, job creation, and sustainable development in Benue State.
As you celebrate this milestone, I join millions across the globe in thanking God for your life, your courage, and your deep compassion for the people. May this new chapter bring you even greater wisdom, strength, and divine protection. Be assured of my continued prayers for your health, your family, and your administration.
Happy 59th Birthday, Your Excellency. May your days be long and filled with boundless grace.
Yours sincerely, Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, CFA Group Managing Director
Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC)
DR. RAYMOND ASEMAKAHA, CFA Group Managing Director Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC)
On Behalf of the Board, management and staff of Star Fer tilizer & Chemicals Limited; we cong ratulate the Executive Gover nor of Benue State His Excellency Rev Fr Dr Hyacinth Ior mem Alia on the occasion of His 59th bir thday!
Your Excellency; we are honored to be associated with you; and join in celebrating this special day with you. we are g rateful for the oppor tunity to par tner with your administration towards boosting ag ricultural productivity and economic g rowth. On our par t: we shall ensure the timely availability of quality and affordable fer tilizer to Benue far mers at all times; by so doing, we become par tners in enhancing food security in Benue State. We are proud to be par t of Benue State's jour ney towards a brighter future under your visionar y leadership.
Your Excellency; Benue State is indeed luck y to have a courag eous and pragmatic leader like you at the helm of it’s affairs
As you celebrate your bir thday; we pray the almighty GOD to g rant you g ood health, a sound mind & body; and divine guidance to continue with the all impor tant work of piloting the affairs of your State
May 14, 2025
Lagos, Nigeria
NOTICE TO SHAREHOLDERS OF ACCESS HOLDINGS PLC ON THE PUBLICATION OF THE LIST OF UNCLAIMED DIVIDEND
Access Holdings Plc (‘the Company’) wishes to inform the Nigerian Exchange Limited and the investing public that i n line with Section 429 (1) of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020 requiring the publication of the list of Unclaimed Dividend in national newspapers, the list of Unclaimed Dividend of the Company as at December 31, 2024, has been published on our website, in lieu of the publication, due to the number of shareholders with Unclaimed Dividend.
Please visit the link below to access the list: https://accessholdingsplc.com/wp -content/uploads/2025/05/Access -Holdings-PLcUnclaimed.pdf
Thank you.
for: ACCESS HOLDINGS PLC
SUNDAY EKWOCHI GROUP COMPANY SECRETARY
The Explainer
NOA PLAYS CRUCIAL ROLE IN ELECTION SUCCESS, SAYS INEC
In a rare testimony at the weekend, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared that the National Orientation Agency (NOA) plays an indispensable role of mobilising citizens for participation in any election under the Nigerian democracy.
In fact, he described the civic engagement and voter education activities of the NOA as a pillar of success in elections conducted by the commission in Nigeria.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner in Osun state made this assertion when the NOA Director in Osun state, Mr Stephen Adefarasin Adebiyi, visited the INEC office in Oshogbo, appreciating the working relationship with the Commission over the years.
Acknowledging the improvement in voter education in Osun, Adebiyi said, “Since Osun’s inception, there was no free and fair election. Good election results in the state started
Benue
In order to promote quality healthcare delivery in Nigeria, the Benue State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) recently joined the state taskforce to enhance primary healthcare delivery in Benue.
Speaking at a meeting chaired by the Deputy Governor of the state, Samuel Ode, the State Director of NOA, Mr Mark Dewua, described the engagement as a critical platform for collaboration and policy direction, stressing that the agency remains
occurring in recent years. Voter education has been comprehensive, and the state has been elevated nationally.”
Speaking earlier, the Osun INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr Mutiu Agboke, noted that the role of NOA is determined by the effectiveness of its leadership, highlighting voter perception and electoral integrity as key focus areas for the upcoming governorship and general elections.
“The efficacy of NOA is about the ability of the person in charge to showcase the mandate of NOA. You are the one who has been trained for it. I want you to let us benefit from that.
“My focus for the Osun 2026 gubernatorial election is that we need to reorient the people’s perception about what an election is,” he noted.
committed to mobilising public support and strengthening community-based awareness on immunisation and other primary health initiatives.
He commended the deputy governor for providing meaningful leadership and called on stakeholders to join forces with NOA to promote and enlighten citizens in the state on health challenges that are prevalent in the area with a view to improving health outcomes.
Federal Commissioner Felicitates with NOA Borno New Director
Commissioner,
During the visit, the Federal Commissioner highlighted areas of collaboration and partnership between sister agencies under the new
Speaking further on the need to highlight government policies and programs to Nigerians down to the grassroots, he advised the state directorate to be more proactive by engaging in high-level advocacy with state government officials, stakeholders, MDAs, and NGOs.
Alhaji Adamu also prayed for Mr. Bdliya’s success, wishing him wisdom, courage and good health.
In his response, the state director Mr Bdliya thanked the Federal Commissioner and his team for the visit, acknowledging their support, while reiterating his readiness to meet expectations.
NOA Urges Akwa Ibom Parents to Vaccinate Children Against Deadly Diseases
Agboke called on NOA to actively engage the electorate to tackle election-related violence and vote buying, urging NOA to spearhead grassroots mobilisation and move beyond formal engagements.
The REC mentioned the forthcoming gubernatorial election in the state and emphasised the need to uphold the agency’s mandate during election advocacy, saying, “Our focus is mainly on the 2026 gubernatorial election. We are waiting for the timetable, and hopefully, by June, we hope that the Osun guber election timetable will be out.
“In our advocacy, we must stand by our mandate and we must allow the people’s voice to be heard during the election.”.
In his submission, the deputy governor implored all members of the task force to approach discussions with seriousness, noting that the meeting represented the highest decision-making forum on primary healthcare in the state
Assuring stakeholders of the state government’s unwavering commitment to improving the health and well-being of Benue people, Ode promised to personally engage the Bureau of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to mobilise the local government chairman for greater support for primary heathcare initiatives.
In a move to promote child health and well-being, the Akwa-Ibom State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called on parents and caregivers in the state to prioritise vaccination against deadly diseases. During a recent sensitisation campaign in Uyo, the State Director of NOA, Mr Mkpoutom Mkpoutom, emphasised the importance of immunization in protecting children from serious infectious diseases such as measles, polio, whooping cough and hepatitis B, noting that vaccinating children significantly reduces the risk of these potentially life-threatening illnesses.
Mkpoutom highlighted the costeffectiveness of preventing diseases through vaccination, stating that the financial burden of hospitalisation and ongoing health issues far exceeds the cost of vaccines.
Also speaking, the Head of the Health and Social Care Department at NOA’s Akwa Ibom Directorate, Mrs Amaka Okon, reinforced the message, pointing out that vaccine-preventable diseases can lead to complications affecting a child’s physical and cognitive growth, urging parents to protect their children from these threats to ensure they thrive.
This appeal resonates Federal Government’s National Immunization Plus Days campaign in partnership with the Akwa Ibom State Government, World Health Organisation (WHO), UNICEF and other development partners.
National Orientation Agency Nigeria
The Federal
Public Complaints Commission Borno State Alhaji Yusuf Adamu, led a delegation of directors and top management staff to congratulate Mr. Michael Daniel Bdliya on his confirmation as Substantive Director of the state directorate.
leadership.
The DG NOA Mallam Lanre Issa -Onilu and the Board Memebers of the Center for Patriotism and Values Reorientation led by the Chairman Muhammad Abdulahi Adu during their courtesy visit to the NOA HQ
NOA KWARA EMPHASISES COLLECTIVE RESPONSIBILITY IN TACKLING INSECURITY
The Kwara State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has reaffirmed that security is a collective responsibility, urging all citizens to play an active role in safeguarding the nation.
During a courtesy visit to the Kwara State Commissioner of Police, the State Director of NOA, Alhaji Dare Abdulganiyu, highlighted the Agency’s ongoing efforts in security sensitisation, intelligence gathering, and the establishment of feedback mechanisms to enhance community policing.
Reflecting on the agency’s activities on insecurity, he said that the agency
is committed to mobilising Nigerians at the grassroots level to support security agencies through timely reporting of suspicious activities and adherence to safety measures.
The state director further said, “ Security is not the responsibility of law enforcement alone; it is everybody’s business. The NOA is intensifying its advocacy to ensure that citizens are wellinformed and actively involved in security matters
“Through our nationwide campaigns, we encouraged intelligence sharing, vigilance, and cooperation with security
agencies to foster a safer society.”
In response, the Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Ojo Adekini, applauded NOA’s proactive role in promoting security awareness and assured the agency of continued collaboration between the police and NOA.
Adekini further assured that the Kwara Police Command would continue to work closely with NOA and other stakeholders to enhance public safety and prevent crime.
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Ondo State has advised members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Ondo State to shun get-rich-quick schemes and focus on personal development, which resonates with the national values and societal norms.
While delivering a lecture titled “ Avoid Temptation to Get Rich Quickly”, for Batch A Steam 1 members of NYSC at the permanent camp in Ikare Akoko, the State Director of NOA, Mr James Adekunle, who was represented by the Assistant Director of Youth Engagement and Inclusion, Mr Babatunde Akinde, emphasised the importance of rejecting get-rich-quick schemes, stressing that youths are important social agents for national development.
In his remarks, he admonished the corps members to support the fight against corruption and reject leaders
who seek to manipulate them against constituted authority.
Adekunle also emphasised the need for Nigerian youth to rise up to protect the country’s unity, noting that an immoral and corrupt society with impunity, social injustices and absence of equality and rule of law threatens national unity.
Speaking further, he stated that the agency is committed to encouraging the youths to embrace value re-orientation to enhance national development, staying away from negative vices that can dent the country’s image.
The Niger State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) recently reaffirmed its commitment to a strong and virile collaboration with the state radio, Radio Niger.
He spoke during a courtesy visit to the General Manager of Radio Niger, Mr Mohammed Kolo, at the station’s headquarters in Minna, reminding management and staff of the Radio Station, of the strategic role the media plays in advancing government policies, initiatives and programmes and also in driving civic education.
The State Director of NOA, Mallam Yahaya Ibrahim Gbongbo, highlighted some of the activities of the agency stressing that the National Identity Project is a cornerstone for fostering national cohesion and socio-economic development, adding that the project emphasises the responsibilities of the citizens and the government.
Speaking further, he added that NOA magazine, the Explainer is part of the Agency’s broader effort to inform, educate and sensitise the public about the initiatives, policies and programmes of the government.
The state director further expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the station’s consistent support, and he also called for sustained collaboration, particularly in areas such as airtime provision for sensitisation jungles and interactive programmes.
Responding, the General Manager of Radio Niger, Mr Mohammed Kolo, acknowledged the value of the NOA Explainer Magazine, which he said has enriched the station’s public affairs content.
NOA, Citizens Value Brigade To Work Toward Stronger
In an effort to deepen grassroots involvement and strengthen civic responsibility across Ogun State, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) and its Citizens Value Brigade have reaffirmed their commitment to closer collaboration with the grassroots to achieve mass citizen awareness and preparadness for development.
Addressing the delegation from the state Citizens value Brigade, the State Director of NOA, Mrs Oyebisi Andu, lauded the Brigade’s unwavering dedication to national values and described the visit as a timely show of solidarity in the shared mission of nation-building.
Andu noted that the Citizens Value Brigade plays a vital enforcement role in our collective effort to instill discipline and uphold civic responsibility at the community level, pledging that NOA’s full support and emphasised the need for structured collaboration with local government chairmen to give the Brigade greater visibility and operational backing across all 20 local government areas in the state.
In his response, the State Commander of the Brigade, Mr Rotimi Adekunbi, congratulated the state director on her appointment and voiced strong confidence in her leadership, stressing the need to revitalise the Brigade’s structure and functions, citing past setbacks such as reduced membership and inadequate institutional support.
With more than 12 per cent annual budget to agriculture, Kaduna has become the only subnational to meet and exceed the Malabo Declaration benchmark, writes WILLIAM
BALAT
KADUNA: BEYOND MALABO TARGET
That the Senator Uba Sani administration was serious about promoting agriculture was not in doubt. The shock is the massive scale at which the Kaduna State governor is leading the charge.
At the state’s recent quarterly ministerial briefing, Commissioner for Agriculture, Alhaji Murtala Dabo, unveiled the N74 billion agricultural transformation initiative. That huge figure is what Kaduna is allocating to agriculture in its 2025 budget. More impressive is that 97.7% of the agric sector budget of N74.2 billion was earmarked for capital projects and "only 2.3% was allocated to recurrent expenditure, reflecting a strong emphasis on long-term, impactful investments."
Knowing the place of food on Maslow's hierarchical order, the Kaduna State intervention in ensuring food security is very commendable. For clearer perspectives, the immediate past administration allocated N1.48 billion to agriculture in its 2023 budget, prompting the commissioner to describe the N74.2 billion agriculture allocation as "an exponential growth of 5,000%." And knowing how angry hungry men can be, isn't it wise to have less hungry men around?
"Collectively, the budgetary allocations to agricultural activities in the Ministries of Environment, Education and Human Services have pushed the allocation to agriculture to over 12% of the 2025 budget, making Kaduna State the only subnational to meet and exceed the 10% Malabo Declaration benchmark," Dabo said of the history-making output. The Malabo Declaration benchmark of allocating at least 10% of annual budget to agriculture was signed by African Union heads of state in June 2014.
Dabo also said Kaduna allocated an additional N200 million to rehabilitate critical irrigation infrastructure and has expressed interest in the World Bank’s $500 million Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) project. It cannot be denied that in the past two years since Sani became governor, farmers who make up about 70% of the 10 million population and contribute more than 51% to the state's Gross Domestic Product (GDP), have enjoyed.
Is it the introduction of Tallafin Noma (A Koma Gona) which means ‘Get Back to Farm’ which has seen the distribution of over 100, 000 free bags of fertilisers, improved seedlings and other agro-chemicals to 69, 000 verified smallholder farmers? Under that scheme, verified co-operatives got 500 power tillers and 10, 000 solar-powered water pumps to be deployed to use by their members. They were also given 30 bags of Urea and NPK fertilisers, one motorised knapsack sprayer, one carton of herbicide and another carton of pesticide. Across the state, 16 rural roads have been rehabilitated under the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP) project to improve market access for farmers. It would also connect farmers to schools, and healthcare centers, reducing post-harvest losses and improving livelihoods.
However, understanding that while smallholder farmers should be empowered, the secret to overcoming food insecurity lies in mechanisation, the Sani-led administration is aiming at encouraging mechanised farming.
"Under macro-mechanization, we have procured a fleet of tractors to enhance mechanization," said Dabo.
"A new public-private partnership framework has been developed to operationalize these tractors via revived mechanization hubs."
The commissioner disclosed that these tractors would be hired to farmers at highly subsidised rates, incentivising private operators to acquire more tractors till "there will be a penetration of this mechanization to all nooks and crannies of the state over the years."
This vision is not contained within Kaduna. Un-
der Sani as governor, the state has opened up agricultural-wise, blazing uncharted territories with both local and international partners. With the support of the Afrexim Bank, Kaduna is developing the Agricultural Quality Assurance Centre (AQAC), the first of its kind in Northern Nigeria. This development, according to Dabo, would ensure that agricultural produce in the state are inspected, tested and certified to meet global standards, particularly within the AfCFTA framework.
"This means that our farmers and agro-industries will not only produce more but will produce better— meeting the highest standards required for export and premium markets," he said.
Also, on April 8, 2025, Kaduna made history as the first Nigerian state to commence the Special Agricultural Processing Zone (SAPZ). The SAPZ is a partnership initiated by the African Development Banks (AfDB) to tackle food insecurity. At the groundbreaking ceremony hosted by Governor Sani and attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, President of the African Development Bank, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, a surge of hope was felt in the speeches.
“You have been a great Governor for Kaduna State,” said Dr. Adesina.
“Your passion for agriculture is impressive. I learnt that since you became the Governor you have increased the share of the State budget allocated to agriculture to 10%; and that this has risen to about 74 billion Naira. Well done! The fastest way to develop your vast state, so rich with agricultural potential, is via agricultural transformation. It will transform your rural economies, create jobs, expand your fiscal space and make Kaduna State critical for feeding Nigeria.”
According to AfDB, the SAPZ “will increase agricultural productivity by over 60%, reduce post-harvest losses and strengthen value chains from farm to market… For Kaduna, the focus will be on maize, soybeans, ginger, and tomatoes.”
Then, there is the project, ‘Smart Tomato Value Chain Enhancement Through Sustainable Practices for Livelihood Improvement in Kaduna State.’ It was signed by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and Kaduna State government in February this year.
The agreement seeks to reduce post-harvest losses and improve tomato production. It should be noted that Kaduna State is a leading tomato-producing state in the country. At the event, the FAO Country Representative, Koffy Dominique Kouacou, said the partnership would focus on enhancing production techniques to improve yields and quality. It would also reduce post-harvest losses through better storage, processing and infrastructure development.
“Kaduna State - and indeed Nigeria - has the capacity to become a powerhouse in agricultural production, value addition, and food security, not only for the nation but for the continent,” Kouacou said while commending Governor Sani for his visionary leadership.
Balat writes from Kaduna
SIMBA TIRIMA argues that the disruption of aid will impact the long-term response to combating malnutrition, maternal mortality, and infectious diseases
MALNUTRITION IN THE NORTH
For the last eight years, I have had the privilege of calling Nigeria home. First as a deputy head of mission and now as the country representative, I have seen firsthand how my organization, Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), has responded with compassion in the face of disease outbreaks, natural disasters, and recurring crises. I have also seen how other organisations – both international and local – have stepped up to support authorities in tackling many of these same issues. We at MSF know we can’t fix every global medical issue by ourselves; partnerships are critical.
In many ways, MSF remains as stable as ever. Because 99 percent of our funding comes from individual donors, our decisions are dictated by patients’ needs and not political priorities. But with the dramatic draw-down of funding from the US and other rich countries, we will all feel those impacts.
Nigeria is about to enter the peak season of malnutrition, which continues to afflict more Nigerian children than when I first moved here. It’s a serious condition that is not only dangerous or deadly in the short term but can also lead to long term developmental issues; stunting can occur even from moderate malnutrition. Investing in the reduction of malnutrition isn’t just humane – it's an investment in Nigeria’s future prosperity.
In 2024, more than 250,000 children with severe acute malnutrition (SAM) were admitted to MSF- supported outpatient facilities (Out-Patient Therapeutic Program, OTP) and 76,000 acutely malnourished children with medical complications to inpatient facilities (Stabilization Centers, SC), representing an increase of 38 percent and 53 percent respectively compared to 2023.
In many of our hospitals last year, our teams saw so many children that we had to increase bed capacity, open every emergency tent we had, put mattresses in corridors and every available space, and treat two or three children per bed. Just in the case of one hospital – Katsina Hospital, the largest of our hospitals focused on malnutrition – we struggled to support the more than 25,000 children admitted to hospital over the course of the year. During the malnutrition peak, we often admitted a child every five minutes at the hospital because of complications of acute malnutrition. Overall, the Katsina ITFC admissions were 35 percent higher than in 2024.
Late last year, a food insecurity and malnutrition analysis – led by the Nigerian government – projected that 33.1 million people will face high levels of acute food insecurity during the 2025 lean season (June to August) -- seven million more people affected than in 2024.
As we near the lean season this year, these projections are already tracking. Many of our hospitals are already seeing higher numbers than last year. In the most northwestern state of Kebbi for example, just in the month of April we admitted 41.8 percent more patients than in April 2024. In Kano State, one MSF-supported Ministry of Health primary inpatient therapeutic feeding centre (ITFC) – Unguwa Uku Primary Health Centre – is at full capacity; we are projecting that the other one we support – ITFC at Murtala Mohamed Hospital – will also soon hit capacity. MSF-supported facilities across northern Nigeria are likely to face an
influx of patients, as in many areas—such as Shinkafi and Zurmi in Zamfara State— MSF is the sole provider of inpatient care for malnourished children.
While we are making the necessary arrangements to treat these projected number of patients by expanding bed capacity, recruiting more health care workers, and starting mobile clinic activities, the cuts and changes in logistics around USAID will inevitably have an impact on the northern region, where we treat people. UNICEF, for example, receives most of its funding from USAID and is a leading distributor of life-saving ready-to-use therapeutic food (RUTF) to international, national, and local organizations. Many questions and concerns remain about how these drastic changes will disrupt the flow of food to those who need it most. As more children than ever are projected to suffer from malnutrition, we need more resources –not fewer – to ensure they survive the lean season.
There are no shortages of factors contributing to this crisis. A devastating mix of rising food prices, displacement, insecurity, climate-induced crop failures, low immunisation coverage, and a lack of drinkable water and sanitation leave more children susceptible to developing malnutrition. Sustainable strategies to mitigate these factors must continue to be developed – including by MSF. But having worked on this issue for years, I know that aid funding for food alone will not solve the problem. Without it, Nigerian children will continue to die.
For decades, the humanitarian sector has operated under the assumption that if one donor withdrew, another would step in. That assumption no longer holds. New donors and solutions are critically needed at this moment to analyze RUTF needs and treatment gaps, invest in vaccination and primary health care, and tackle malnutrition in northern Nigeria. Make no mistake, this seismic structural collapse will produce ripple effects for generations, the scale as big as pandemics. Some of those ripples will be more obvious than others, but we will all feel the impacts in one way or another. It’s up to all of us to correct the course today.
Dr Tirima is MSF’s outgoing country representative in Nigeria
Legacy of Mandilas At 75
At 75, with many sterling accomplishments in various sectors of Nigeria’s economy, Raheem Akingbolu reviews the growth trajectory of the Mandilas brand, vis-à-vis the contributions of a few eggheads who have consistently deplored their creative ingenuity in various fields to sustain the tempo of quality services to consumers
Talk of a brand that has remained a household name for decades and still remains a market leader and the name ‘Mandilas’ will readily come to mind. Mandilas Group, one of Nigeria’s most iconic and enduring business names, proudly marks its 75th anniversary this year, celebrating a legacy built on innovation, resilience, and service excellence. Established in 1950, Mandilas has evolved from a pioneering trading and service company into a diversified group with interests spanning mobility, cooling and cold chain solutions.
Over the decades, Mandilas has become synonymous with trust and quality, playing a pivotal role in Nigeria’s industrial and commercial development.
From being one of the earliest distributors of auto vehicles in West Africa to becoming a household name in HVAC solutions, the group has consistently adapted to market needs while maintaining its core philosophy of innovation, integrity, and excellence.
In her short, but captivating reaction to the milestone of this iconic brand, the Group Chief Executive Officer, Mandilas Group Limited, Ola Debayo-Doherty, painted it succinctly when she admitted that Mandilas success story is in its people.
“Seventy-five years is not just a milestone; it is a testament to the strength of our vision and the dedication of our people. At the heart of Mandilas’ success is its people; generations of employees, partners, and customers who have built and sustained a culture of integrity, excellence, trust and service. It’s a family business that became a national institution. One that believed in the power of local talent, invested in relationships, and stayed committed to Nigeria and Nigerians, Debayo-Doherty stated.
Speaking further, she pointed out that the organisation is an enviable employer of labour, using generations of employees as an attestation to her conviction.
FORCES BEHIND THE BRAND
Omonike Faida Oladimeji, Trainee Engineer, Mobility: A female mechanic who beat a plethora of male mechanics at a CNG competition to become a high-flyer in the system, Omonike, who has worked for one year and seven months at Mandilas said it’s a privilege for her to be part of Mandilas at this time of its history. “It feels incredibly rewarding to be part of a company that has sustained its operations for 75 years in Nigeria. Being part of such a rich legacy gives me a sense of pride and responsibility to honor the past while helping to shape the future. It’s inspiring to see how the company has evolved, stayed resilient through challenges, and remained committed to innovation and excellence.”
Speaking on what she thought to be the secret of Mandilas Group’s longevity and relevance, the female
mechanic didn’t think twice before stating that it lies in the brand’s unwavering commitment to quality service and customer satisfaction. According to her, over the decades, Mandilas has consistently invested in its people, embraced innovation, and built strong relationships with partners and clients.
She said: “The company’s ability to evolve with changing times while staying true to its core values has ensured it remains a trusted and respected name in Nigeria. When asked to share her personal highlight and proud moment from her time at the company, she singled out her exposure to knowledge acquisition among other high moments.
“One of my proudest moments at Mandilas was the training and development opportunities, one of which afforded me the opportunity of being selected by Ibile Oil and Gas Limited to attend a specialized CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) training. It was a strong vote of confidence in my potential and commitment, and the experience deepened my technical knowledge while exposing me to industry’s best practices, which I found both rewarding and impactful.”
Speaking further, she made reference to how the company has shown a clear commitment to innovation and strategic growth, particularly in embracing cleaner energy solutions like CNG, since she joined. One of the most notable changes she mentioned has been the increased focus on sustainability and partnerships that support this direction, such as collaborations with energy companies like Ibile Oil and Gas. She also stated
that there’s also been a visible shift towards capacity development, staff training and empowerment have become more intentional, which has positively impacted team performance and morale.
Daniel Uzomba, Store Assistant, Cooling: Another notable individual in today’s Mandilas is Daniel, who has risen through the ranks to become one of the engineers in-house. He joined Mandilas in 2017, exactly eight impactful years and still counting.
Like others, Daniel considers it an incredible honor to be part of this global brand at 75. “Being part of a company that has not only survived but thrived for 75 years is a testament to the strength of its vision and values. I feel proud to be contributing to a legacy that has impacted generations across Nigeria”
To him, what has helped Mandilas to stand the test of time lies in its strong foundation in service, innovation, and people. “The company adapts to the changing needs of the market while still holding onto its core values. That balance between tradition and innovation has kept Mandilas relevant for decades,” he said.
Sharing some of his proudest moments in the organisation, he said, “One of my proudest moments was completing my Mechanical Engineering degree with distinction while still working at Mandilas. Starting from an entry-level role and progressing through hard work and determination has made my journey truly fulfilling. The support and exposure I’ve received here played a major role in that achievement.”
Bamidele George Olugbada, Group Financial Controller: If a story of today’s Mandilas is told without a reference to Dele Olugbada, the story is definitely not complete because he is not just one of the shining stars but second longest serving member of staff.
He joined the company in 1992, exactly 33 years ago and still holds a strategic position, adding value and contributing to the growth and development of what has become part of Nigeria’s success story.
More than anybody, Dele is not only elated to be part of the 75th anniversary celebration of the organisation, he expressed satisfaction at how the brand has changed the game in many areas of Nigeria’s economy. “I have seen Mandilas go this far and still standing strong, and I feel so happy to be part of the celebration.”
As a witness to the historical growth of Mandilas, he was frank enough to state that the secret to the brand’s longevity and relevance is that it’s built on trust and has a strong family-oriented culture.
“The staff see each other as family, which has
created a good working environment. Finally, it’s the company’s professionalism, our ability to consistently deliver quality service. That commitment has helped us retain our customers and expand our customer base. It is what has kept us going all these years.” He gave his personal account and pointed out that he has had many memorable experiences but singled out the moment he was called impromptu to present the report for the Cooling Division in front of then CEO, Mrs. Mandilas. “Each division’s report was assessed based on presentation quality and profitability. Even though I was not given prior notice, I presented the Cooling Division’s report, and we emerged as the best. That moment still stands out for me” he stated.
Chidiegwu Osondu, Assistant Supervisor (Cashier), Mobility: If the award of the longest serving staff of Mandilas is instituted today, no doubt it will go to Chidi, who is obviously the Longest Serving member of staff of the company. He joined in the year 1990 and has put in 35 years, working in various capacities and making significant impacts.
Perhaps more than any other person in Nigeria, Chidi sees Mandilas success as one his greatest joy because he has seen many of the companies that started alongside Mandilas that are no longer in existence today so he considers himself privileged to be part of this enduring legacy. As part of the company’s contributions to his personal wellbeing, he admitted that since he joined Mandilas in 1990, he has never experienced delayed or missed salary payment, pointing out that that consistency is rare, and he remained truly grateful.
On what makes the difference at Mandilas, he said: “The key to our longevity lies in the sincere commitment of both management and staff. Our ability to diversify into other products and services while responding swiftly to economic changes has kept us relevant. This adaptability is what sets Mandilas apart.” His illustration of his personal highlight of his growth trajectory at the company reveals a nostalgic past of the analogue years at the organisation. He said, “One of my proudest moments was when I started at the Lagos Island workshop. Within a year, I was trusted to relieve the cashier. It was a very demanding role at the time, as everything was paper-based and handled solely by one person. Within three years, I became the official cashier and was transferred to the Ikeja branch. My efforts were recognized, and my salary was increased three times in a single year. Another highlight was my promotion to senior staff, which was a very special milestone for me.”
In his parting message to the new generation of Mandilas staff, he urged them not to see Mandilas as just another company, but as a family business, hence they should give it the same dedication and commitment as they would to their own venture.
Operationalising Migration Fintech in Africa
The African migration fintech scene is a vibrant space, full of potential yet riddled with unique challenges. Operating a fintech across African countries is not just about rolling out the latest tech; it’s about navigating a complex web of regulations, limited infrastructure, and diverse cultural landscapes, and ensuring every team member is aligned with the mission, writes Emma Okonji
One of the biggest hurdles is building a strong foundation that can handle the realities of African markets, such as unreliable internet, inconsistent power, and varying digital skills mean that Africans can’t rely solely on online solutions. Instead, a mix of online and offline approaches works best. This includes having backup systems, partnering with local internet providers, and creating apps that work well even with slow connections.
These were the views of Deputy Operations Lead at Vesti, Nigeria, Abayomi Oluyede. According to him, understanding and navigating the regulatory landscape is crucial. Each African country has its own set of rules, demanding a deep understanding of local compliance. Building strong relationships with regulators and engaging in open communication are essential. A dedicated team that stays updated on regulatory changes and works closely with local authorities is vital.
“Africa’s diverse cultures and languages also play a significant role. Building trust requires a nuanced approach that respects local
customs. “Localised content, culturally relevant marketing, and multilingual support are key. This involves thorough market research, community engagement, and collaborations with local influencers,” Oluyede said.
FINANCIAL LITERACY
Addressing the issue of financial literacy, Oluyede said: Africans must consider varying levels of financial literacy, and tailoring communication to ensure services are easily understood.
A solid and reliable payment system is essential. This means partnering with local banks, mobile money operators, and payment gateways. It is also crucial to integrate with existing payment systems and offer diverse payment options. Mobile money is widely used, so systems must accommodate these transactions.
“Crucially, the success of these operations hinges on our team’s performance. This is where Employee KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) come into play. We have found that clearly defined KPIs, directly tied to
our operational goals, are essential for driving efficiency and ensuring alignment.
For example, customer support KPIs like response time and resolution rate directly impact user satisfaction and retention. Engineering KPIs like system uptime and code deployment frequency ensure platform stability. Compliance KPIs like audit scores and regulatory reporting timeliness prevent costly penalties. These KPIs aren’t just numbers; they directly reflect how our team’s efforts translate into operational excellence.
“A talented and motivated team is the backbone of operational success. Investing in local talent, fostering innovation, and promoting collaboration are essential. Training and open communication are key to empowering employees to take ownership and contribute to the company’s success. We also ensure that KPIs are used as a tool for development, not punishment. Regular feedback and performance reviews help employees understand how their work contributes to the mission,” Oluyede said.
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS
According to him, strategic partnerships are also vital. Collaborating with local businesses, NGOs, and government agencies leverages their expertise and expands their reach. This involves identifying organisations with shared values, building strong relationships, and developing mutually beneficial partnerships.
Oluyede is of the view that a commitment to continuous improvement is crucial, and that an agile approach, constant iteration based on user feedback and data, and quick implementation of changes are essential, while prioritising data security and using industry best practices ensures system integrity.
“Operating a fintech company in Africa is challenging, but the potential for impact is immense. When we bridge tech innovation with real-world infrastructure and a highly engaged team driven by clear KPIs, we can create a fintech ecosystem that empowers individuals, drives economic growth, and fosters financial inclusion across the continent. Building a future where financial services are accessible to all, regardless of location or background, remains the ultimate goal, Oluyede further said.
ProPerty & environment
Afriland Estate Redefines Residential Living with Smart Infrastructure, Security, and Sustainability
Afriland Estate, an architecturally refined development by Afriland Properties Plc, is setting a new benchmark for residential communities in Nigeria. Bennett Oghifo writes on how this smart estate in Idu-Karmo, Abuja, integrates innovation, security, and sustainability for the modern homeowner.
Located in the heart of the rapidly expanding Idu-Karmo district of Abuja, Afriland Estate is an elegant and forward-thinking residential community designed to meet the dynamic housing needs of contemporary Nigerians. Developed by Afriland Properties Plc, a leading real estate investment and development company, the estate represents a bold step toward delivering accessible, high-quality housing that balances smart living with environmental consciousness.
Positioned strategically near key institutions and infrastructure, including the Jabi District, Abuja Central Business District, Idu Train Station, Nizamiye Hospital, Baze University, and Nile University, Afriland Estate offers residents unmatched connectivity to commercial, educational, and healthcare services. With enhanced road networks and proximity to the city’s main transit routes, it is a prime destination for professionals, upwardly mobile families, and diaspora Nigerians looking to invest in premium real estate.
The development comprises 104 elegantly finished units, including 5-bedroom fully detached and semi-detached triplexes (with service quarters), 4-bedroom terraces, and 2- and 3-bedroom apartments. Designed for a discerning clientele, Afriland Estate caters to middle-to-high-income earners, professionals, and investors seeking longterm value in a secure and thoughtfully planned environment.
What sets Afriland Estate apart is its seamless integration of smart living features into a serene, community-centric setting. Residents will enjoy reliable electricity, high-speed internet connectivity, centralised security systems with CCTV surveillance, and app-enabled estate management for service and maintenance requests. These
digital conveniences reflect the estate’s commitment to delivering a truly connected lifestyle.
Security is a cornerstone of the estate’s value proposition, with a multi-layered safety infrastructure that includes surveillance cameras, gated access control, and trained on-site personnel. The estate is designed to provide peace of mind through clear sightlines, controlled entrances, and responsive emergency systems.
Afriland Estate also prioritises wellness and community interaction. Residents will have access to lifestyle-enhancing facilities such as a fully equipped gym, spa, swimming pools for adults and chil-
dren, landscaped gardens, and dedicated walkways and cycling paths. A central water supply, efficient waste management systems, and eco-conscious infrastructure promote health and sustainability. There are communal interaction areas, green zones, and a neighbourhood community centre with a shopping complex to support everyday living.
Designed to foster a vibrant and inclusive environment, the estate encourages a lifestyle rooted in comfort, efficiency, and human connection.
The units are currently available for purchase, with flexible payment structures to support home ownership. According to
Afriland Properties Plc, the estate will be delivered as fully finished homes, ready for immediate occupation upon completion.
Afriland Properties Plc, a publicly listed company, specialises in residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments. The firm is widely recognised for its dedication to delivering affordable excellence while prioritising innovation, sustainability, and long-term community value.
Under the leadership of Managing Director/CEO Azubike Emodi, Afriland Properties continues to shape Nigeria’s urban landscape with a clear and purposeful mission: to develop real estate that empowers people and transforms lives.
Workplace Transformation: Report Reveals Rise of Frontier Firm, New Era of Workforce Dynamics
Bennett Oghifo
As organisations worldwide navigate the next wave of workplace transformation, Microsoft’s fifth annual Work Trend Index (WTI) Report uncovers the emergence of a new kind of enterprise: the Frontier Firm. These businesses operate with intelligence on demand, leveraging hybrid human-agent teams to maximize efficiency and innovation. Conducted in partnership with LinkedIn, the report, titled “2025: The Year the
Frontier Firm Is Born”, examines insights from 31,000 professionals across 31 countries, alongside LinkedIn Economic Graph data and trillions of aggregated signals from e-mails, meetings, and chats within Microsoft 365.
The report found that AI has fundamentally altered the equation of workforce capacity. Intelligence is no longer restricted by headcount or expertise, and is now abundant, affordable, and scalable. As economic pressures mount, organizations must harness AI’s potential
to bridge the widening capacity gap between business demands and human limitations. Business leaders are increasingly turning to digital labour to enhance workforce capabilities, with 82% expecting to leverage AI-driven solutions within the next 12 to 18 months.
Nigeria ranked 7th in Africa for AI readiness, according to the 2024 Oxford Insights AI Readiness Index, with AI making an impact in financial technology, healthcare, agriculture, and fintech, supported by Nigerian government
policies that foster innovation. Nigeria has seen significant AI adoption across various sectors – the Lagos AI Institute found that investments in AI startups have increased by 43% since early 2023.
The Work Trends Index found that AI skilling and digital labour are top workforce strategies. “The shift is multifaceted. Every industry and role will evolve differently as the technology diffuses across business and society. Just as the internet era created billions of new knowledge jobs, the AI era
is already giving rise to new roles, with many more to come,” says Ola Williams, Country Manager, Microsoft Nigeria.
The survey found that 78% of leaders are considering hiring for AI-specific roles to prepare for the future –and that jumps to 95% for Frontier Firms. Top roles under consideration include AI trainers, data specialists, security specialists, AI agent specialists, ROI analysts, and AI strategists in marketing, finance, customer support, and consulting. And nearly
Prof Okeke Receives Best Climate Change Advocate Award
Fadekemi Ajakaiye
The profile of Professor Okeke Gerald Ndubuisi has further
risen with his winning the prestigious Best Climate Change Advocate of the Year Award.
Professor Okeke, a double professor of Climate Change and Sustainability and professor of Safety and Environmental Sustainability won this award at the 12th Edition of Nigeria Safety And Security (NSAS) Awards/Lecture to commemorate the 2025 ILO Day of Safety at Work in Lagos recently.
Professor Okeke who is the first professor of Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability in Africa was commended for his commitment and “ never give up
spirit in promoting Climate Change education in Africa and globally “ In his nomination letter signed by the Vice Chairman of the Media Center for Promotion of Safety Awareness (MCPoSA), Dr. Fyneray Mbata, the organiser of the award said Prof. Okeke was shortlisted for the award in response to his many contributions to the development and practice of Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) and his consistent contributions to humanity particularly in the
area of Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability.
Dr Mbata disclosed that the gathering was not just to present an award but to recognize a life long dedication and passion which “ takes years of perseverance and tireless commitment Responding, Prof. Okeke who is also the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Highstone Global University thanked the organiser for singling him out for honor out many better professional colleagues in the Climate Change sector.
He noted that the award
half of leaders (47%) say that upskilling their existing workforce is a top priority in the next 12–18 months.
The report also noted that businesses are shifting from traditional hierarchical structures to more dynamic, outcome-driven work charts, where human-agent teams collaborate fluidly to achieve results at scale. Workers at Frontier Firms are far more likely than non-frontier workers to use AI for tasks related to marketing, customer success, internal comms, and data science.
was one of the best awards he has ever received.
In his words:” I never knew my little contributions to Climate Change is being monitored globally and locally.”
The colorful event held at the Lagos Chambers of Commerce and Industry Secretariat (LCCI) was graced by dignitaries and notable individuals that include the House Committee Chairman of the North West Development Commission, Dr. Suleiman Abubakar Gumi, who was Keynote Speaker.
Okeke
Architectural rendition of Afriland Estate, in Idu-Karmo, Abuja
Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE
Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com
08033025611 sms only
Nwobu: PDP Needs Other Opposition Parties to Defeat APC in 2027
Former Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party in anambra state, Dr Ndubisi Nwobu, in this interview bares his mind on salient national issues including his advise on the need for the PDP to form alliance with other opposition parties and interest groups as a way to wrestle power from the ruling all Progressives Congress in 2027. David-Chyddy Eleke brings excerpts.
What is your take on the crisis in PDP, is the Acting national chairman, Damagun working for PDP or APC?
Let me start with the crisis at the national level, yes, the crisis has fester for quite a long time, over who is the national secretary of the party, why the acting national secretary should be in office while the people of North Central are looking for replacement of the former national chairman. All these have polarized the party. Unbridled ambition of individuals without being told is our major problem. As the national secretary, you will be among the signatories to the candidates of the party that will be submitted to Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). You will be among those who will set up a committee to conduct congresses, primaries and rectify the primaries and others.
If there is a proper conscience, you ought not to be a judge in your own case. Senator Sam Anyanwu ought to have recused himself the very day he wanted to contest for the governor of Imo State. He failed to do that and despite assurances and promises to the leadership of the party in South East he made openly in Enugu State at the Governor’s Lodge that he was going to resign. He never did. Infact, he ought not to run for primary without resigning his position as the national secretary of the party. He as the national secretary is part of those who will determine who will be candidate of the party. This was the reason the former Governor of Imo State, Hon. Emeka Ihedioha declined from contesting the governorship election in Imo State. What will the contest be for, contesting against somebody who will be judge in his own case? It is not right to run a race with that situation. It is shameless on the part of Senator Anyawu not to have recused himself long before now.
He is much more unconscionable that he continues to drag the party to mud till this day. On Tuesday, he even surfaced as the National Secretary before National Working Committee, graciously enough the committee stopped him and asked him to step aside, while the Deputy National Secretary took up the position until a time the South East indicates that they have found a replacement.
There are laws but people sideline them for selfish interest and do things out of ordinary. Now, we expect the judiciary to correct the anomaly but it says that the party should handle their matter and affairs. This crisis were not supposed to be in place but because some people want to serve other interest apart from the party, the challenge continues.
Now the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Mr Nyesom Wike, if he is man enough, he should go and pick membership card of APC. I am convinced that he is being a coward for continuing to say - “I am PDP but I’m supporting Tinubu”. What kind of story or statement is that? You cannot be a party member and supporting a candidate of another party. It simply means you are no longer a member of that party.
These days, people believe that money can buy every thing and he is hoisting himself as member of PDP thereby paying some renegades to be causing trouble in the party. They also believe that judiciary is payable and they can go there and get one order or another.
If what is happening in PDP happened to other political parties they would have been wrecked by now. PDP is able to contend with the crisis because it is a party that has been able to build some level of institutions. It has Board of Trustee (BoT), the Governors’ Forum and a lot of other institutions waging war against people who want to rubbish the party. Yes,
nwobu
there are fundamental challenges in the party, there are crisis within the party.
Any person who tells you that there is no crisis in PDP is making a mistake and not honest. However, I am saying that the institutions in the party will enable it overcome those challenges. It is just a matter of little time every thing will be over.
As of the governor defecting from PDP to APC, a political party you joined at your own instinct and you must know there is freedom of association in the constitution. Within the constitution, there is framework that says that if you defect you lose your seat.
Because there are decided cases in the case of executive, they can misbehave. As for me as a political scientist, there is no basis for a governor to defect and retain his seat. When you run for an election, you run on the platform of a political party and you did not run as individual.
Event in the result, there is no place where the candidates name is mentioned or written. If you take the mandate of a party and wants to leave for another party, common sense and conscience should tell you to relinguish the office and go to the new party, pick it’s ticket and run for the position.
As of today, we don’t have independent candidate in Nigeria. Conceding and not accepting that the judiciary has ruled that executive can defect without losing their position, but the Supreme Court has decided that legislatures cannot defect without losing their positions unless there is a division in their party. In Rivers State where people formally and openly defected, INEC should have without waiting for Court to declare those seats vacant done so and schedule a date for election.
Let them stand on the tickets of their new parties and run for the election. As of today they are not representing people they claim to represent, they are just representing themselves. Also, those governors that are defecting are
We need to tell ourselves the truth, we need to wrestle power from APC for the greater good of the people. It is not something the party can do alone. There is no point looking at yourself as being at a higher level and we need to come down. PDP needs to be in coalition with other political gladiators to wrestle power from APC.
We must do it not for sake of PDP but for the sake of the masses of this country.
defecting for their selfish reasons. Due to the kind of democracy we are running in this country many of our leaders have become so corrupt. You see somebody who becomes a governor and by the time he leaves office he must have amassed so much wealth for his fifth generation, he might not know how they will exist. The government knew that these people have their stains here and there and if any one proves stubborn, they will come after him with EFCC and once they are around they will say instead of coming after me, let’s slow down.
This ought not be what democracy should be. If Jonathan had played what these APC people are doing, there won’t be APC today. We are having people in power today who are pretentious about democracy in Nigeria. Before now, they have impression that there will be democracy, freedom of speech, true federalism and every thing in place. All their auctions are contrary to all they advocated for in the past.
What arrangements is PDP making to win 2027 general election?
I watched and read the communique of the PDP governors in Ibadan, Oyo State. These are governors I have great respect for but I tend to disagree with them, with all their wealth of knowledge and influence. I am convinced that they are not reading the mood and feelings of the nation right. PDP is a great party with structure across the country, it is not about that. We need to tell ourselves the truth, we need to wrestle power from APC for the greater good of the people. It is not something the party can do alone. There is no point looking at yourself as being at a higher level and we need to come down. PDP needs to be in coalition with other political gladiators to wrestle power from APC. We must do it not for sake of PDP but for the sake of the masses of this country. If the governors say the PDP will do it alone, I will tell you it is a failure already. PDP needs to spearhead in conjunction with other forces to see that power is taken away from APC. Coalition is the only way out and any person who tells any other thing is not honest.
Why is it difficult for the political party to retrieve their mandate from the defectors?
The political party and judiciary should be blamed for non retrieval of those mandates. There are cases where parties went to court and won, that is the reason I said that there are decided cases that if you defect you lose your seat. When a case is decided it becomes a law and people should not be allowed to go through the stress again. You know when you go for litigation in this country, you need a lawyer and most time senior advocate of Nigeria, may be because you are going to battle with somebody with so much money. To get a SAN, you need at least N5million for just consultation.
How many of these political parties can afford such amount? Again to follow up the case, then the judiciary that will come up with one technicality or the other to determine the case. Not withstanding these challenges, the political parties should be able to follow up those cases to conclusions and if they don’t follow them up it will continue to be like that. Today, when people defect to their party they are happy, while when PDP was in power when someone wanted to defect they will be shouting. Today, PDP is at the receiving end. This is the reason I want us to look at the law and not only when it affects or favour us.
NOTE:
How Unilever’s TRANSFORM is Improving Livelihoods through Partnership
In a world where collaboration fuels sustainable results, Unilever’s TRANSFORM initiative, a dynamic partnership with the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, FCDO, and Ernst & Young, EY, is embracing this ethos to scale innovative, impact-driven enterprises across Africa and Asia. Now, with nearly one billion naira in funding and support, it has launched its West Africa programme, backing five promising ventures in Nigeria and Ghana that are tackling critical challenges in plastics, regenerative agriculture and inclusive livelihoods. Precious Ugwuzor writes
Great things happen through collaboration. From the awe-inspiring International Space Station (ISS) orbiting above to the transformative World Wide Web connecting billions, humanity’s greatest triumphs have been shaped through collaboration. The Open Source Movement, epitomized by Linux and Wikipedia, and the expeditious production of vaccines for COVID-19, demonstrate the power of collective efforts in creating shared resources that benefits all.
As the world races to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), harnessing this spirit of collaboration, especially through strategic Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), maybe the most powerful tool yet. By channeling global capital and expertise into critical sectors, FDI promotes innovation, drives sustainable growth, and accelerates progress toward a more inclusive and resilient future.
This is precisely why TRANSFORM, a joint initiative by Unilever, the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and Ernst & Young (EY) that seeks to accelerate impact enterprises in Africa, Asia and beyond is highly commendable. TRANSFORM has now launched its West Africa initiative to promote sustainable development by supporting innovative enterprises in Ghana and Nigeria with nearly one billion naira in funding, mentorship, and global exposure.
A Model for Scalable Sustainability TRANSFORM is more than just an accelerator; it is an ecosystem of purpose. By uniting corporates, donors, investors and researchers, TRANSFORM is enabling impact-driven entrepreneurs across the world to pilot and scale solutions that address pressing environmental and social challenges.
The real exciting news is that in 2024, the programme turned its spotlight on West Africa, and selected five forward-thinking enterprises in Nigeria and Ghana focused on three critical areas: plastics, regenerative agriculture and shopkeeper livelihoods. Each enterprise chosen is set to receive up to £100,000 (£500,000 collectively) in innovation grants and access to invaluable in-kind support from Unilever and EY.
A Selection Process Rooted in Collaboration
The West Africa initiative kicked off with a two-phase selection process that started
in June 2024. In the first phase, over 100 concept notes were sourced from the networks of Unilever, FCDO, and EY and evaluated with input from Unilever’s in-country teams in Nigeria and Ghana. The second phase involved 22 shortlisted enterprises submitting detailed proposals, each supported by a Unilever mentor to fine-tune their impact models and ambitions.
A series of vibrant in-person and virtual events held in Lagos and Accra in June 2024 brought together stakeholders across the innovation ecosystem, from incubators and accelerators to previous TRANSFORM grantees such as WeCyclers and SESA Gripe. The gatherings were a platform to inform and inspire.
Spotlight on the Selected Enterprises
From plastic waste to sustainable farming, the selected enterprises are united by their commitment to people, planet and profit.
Each initiative holds the promise to scale impact and spark systemic change in West Africa:
Chanja Datti (Nigeria): By decentralizing plastic waste collection through Micro Recycling Plants, Chanja Datti is tackling pollution at its source and creating green jobs in underserved communities.
Scrapays (Nigeria): With a tech-enable platform connecting waste producers to recyclers and processors, Scrapays is building an efficient, traceable and profitable waste recovery network.
Planet 3R (Nigeria): A woman-andyouth-led social enterprise, Planet 3R transforms waste into wealth by training communities to turn plastic and textile waste into reusable household items and fashion accessories.
AppCyclers (Ghana): The Northern Ghana Plastic Waste Reboot Initiative is reimagining the circular economy by digitizing the plastic value chain with a special focus on empowering women waste collectors.
Minana Service (Ghana): Through sustainable palm oil production, Minana is both regenerating agricultural land and helping to create meaningful employment opportunities for women and youths in rural Ghana.
These firms are not just startups; they are the seeds of a sustainable revolution.
A Celebration of Innovation
To honour the selected enterprises, TRANSFORM hosted a landmark celebration on April 3, 2025, at the British High Commissioner’s Residence in Lagos. The event brought together 50 guests, including representatives from Unilever, the UK FCDO, EY, the British High Commission and the broader social enterprise ecosystem.
Inspiring speeches underscoring the initiative's strategic significance were given.
John Baxter, Deputy High Commissioner of BHC Lagos, called the cohort “trailblazers in sustainability.” Godfrey Adejumoh, Head, Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Business, Unilever Nigeria, emphasized the critical role of collaboration in achieving scale. Adejoke Lasisi, CEO of Planet 3R, shared her journey of turning waste into empowerment for Nigerian women.
A corresponding celebration is planned for April 30, in Accra, Ghana to continue the momentum and spotlight the country’s vibrant innovation ecosystem.
The Promise of Unilever’s TRANSFORM
The TRANSFORM West Africa initiative is beyond funding, it is about promoting long-term inclusive prosperity. By embedding sustainability into enterprise DNA, TRANSFORM is helping to build resilient economies that serve both people and the planet.
With the in-kind contributions from Unilever in the form of dedicated project leads, and business support from EY coaches, these enterprises are equipped not just to survive but also to thrive and create ripple effects that reach far beyond national borders.
In a region full of opportunities to improve livelihoods and socio-economic impact, TRANSFORM's approach is a timely, necessary intervention. It is redefining how corporate and development partners can collaborate to support and grow the next generation of changemakers. By aligning with government efforts, it signals strong private sector backing for initiatives that drive meaningful impact, foster growth, and enable scalable solutions.
TRANSFORM and Unilever Nigeria’s Sustainability Focus
In its drive to accelerate its sustainability
efforts in Nigeria, Unilever has sharpened its strategic focus on improving livelihoods. This is embedded across four key pillars: Youth Employability through the Future-X Campus Ambassadors Programme (FUCAP) in partnership with UNICEF Gen U, Plastic Collection via collaborations with franchises like WeCyclers, Women Empowerment through the Shakti initiative, and Localisation of raw material sourcing.
These pillars are delivering tangible results. Through its partnership with WeCyclers, Unilever Nigeria has collected over 13,000 tonnes of plastic waste, surpassing the volume of plastic it puts into the environment. In sourcing over 50% of its raw materials locally, more than 10,000 cassava farmers have been positively impacted, enhancing their livelihoods and economic opportunities.
The Shakti initiative has empowered over 13,000 women across 22 states, including the FCT, creating micro-entrepreneurs and nurturing financial independence. In addition, the FUCAP initiative has equipped over 40,000 youth with entrepreneurship and future-ofwork skills, preparing them to thrive in an evolving job market.
With the support of three Nigerian enterprises focused on plastic collection under the TRANSFORM initiative, Unilever is poised to deepen its impact. By ensuring fair remuneration for plastic collectors and strengthening the entire waste management ecosystem, the initiative not only supports environmental sustainability but also improves livelihoods. It is driving long-term social and economic benefits for communities across Nigeria.
Last Words
At its heart, TRANSFORM is a testament to what’s possible when vision meets collaboration. In West Africa, it is laying the groundwork for a more sustainable future, one innovation at a time.
As the world searches for solutions to its most urgent challenges, TRANSFORM is proving that the answers often lie closest to home. Yes, they are in the ingenuity of local entrepreneurs, in the spirit of community, and in the power of sustainable enterprise. TRANSFORM West Africa today stands as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the power of collaboration to do great things. As Helen Keller noted, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”
L-R: Head, Innovation and Strategy, Chanja Datti Limited, Gabriel Onyebuolise; Senior Partner/Head of Markets, Ernst & Young, Ashishi Bakhshi; Deputy Head of Mission, British High Commission, Simon Field; Founder/ CEO, Planet3R, Adejoke Lasisi; Head, Corporate Affairs and Sustainable Business, Unilever Nigeria, Godfrey Adejumoh and Operations and Strategy Lead, Scrapays, Boluwatife Arewa at the unveiling of TRANSFORM grant winners held at the British High Commission's residence in Lagos
INTRODUCTION:
1.
Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) Operator of NNPCL/CNL Joint venture, invites interested and prequalified service providers for this tender opportunity for Provision well plug and abandonment (P&A) Asset retirement services, at Company's operational areas. The Proposed award strategy is multiple contracts of five (5) years term with an option of two (2) years extension.
2.
SCOPE OF WORK:
The scope of work covered under this tender includes but is not limited to the following: -
To Plug and abandon selected idle JV Wells utilizing the right mix of resources Equipment and Personnel
To Provide an integrated P&A services that is inclusive of ancillary services such as on an integrated basis including with tubing and casing cutting and pulling capabilities, Cementing Services, Slickline Services, Electric Line Services, hydraulic workover unit operation (HWOU Services), Logging Services, ( E.g. CBL), sand clean out require for cleaning the sand out of the well and well abandonment and well abandonment, Coil Tubing Services, Specialty Barges for Onshore Work, Expendables and all Other Items Required to Provide the Services.
All work will be carried out consistently with the Company's current safety and environmental policies as detailed in Exhibit D below:
a Contractor will perform the services for the joint venture between Company and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (“NNPC”). Contractor must have established base facilities in Warri or Port Harcourt for the handling of HWOU Services.
b Contractor HWOU Services shall include but is not limited to:
c Furnish for a 24-hour operation a certified 460K Hydraulic Workover Unit, tools and equipment listed under the contract to enable the performance of the following jobs in deviated, straight and horizontal wells: pulling of completion strings, well killing, fishing, milling, cementing, and well abandonment and related ancillaries. Equipment shall include the equipment needed for the jobs and to rig up onto the Company wellhead. All crossover and flanged connections be included and should be supplied by the contractor. All equipment must be pre-slung and certified.
d Furnish the following with certification: Jack with lift capacity of 460, 000 lbs
Accumulator unit with nitrogen bottles charged to 3000 psi
30 bbls Trip tank duly calibrated.
PVT available at Third Party Vendor Specialist Documented Cost plus 10% Handling fee Standpipe rated 5000 psi
Mud storage tank (with combined capacity of 700 bbls of water=244608 lbs) including additional storage which may include available storage in the SEWOP. Centrifugal and Mud pumps rated 5000 psi. Mud pump skids must include real time data acquisition package capable of tracking rate, pressure and volume (at a minimum) 100 bbls Flowback tank
Choke Manifold coupled with kill manifold rated 5000 psi.
Surface pumping iron and flowback iron. Pumping iron should be 2” 10,000 psi working pressure with fig 1502 10M connections. Flowback iron should be 3” 5000
3. MANDATORY TENDER REQUIREMENTS:
A. To be eligible for this tender exercise, interested bidders are required to be pre –qualified and 'live' in the 3.15.04 (Asset Retirement, Waste Management Services) category in NipeX Joint Qualification System (NJQS) database. All successfully pre-qualified and 'live' bidders in this category by the bid close date will receive Invitation to Tender (ITT).
B. To determine if you are pre-qualified and to view the product/service category you are listed for: Open www vendors.nipex-ng.com and access NJQS with your log in details. Click on Products/Services tab to view your status and product codes.
C. If you are not listed in the product/service category and you are registered with NUPRC to do business in this category, please contact NipeX office at 27b Oyinkan Abayomi Drive, Ikoyi Lagos with your NUPRC certificate (formerly called DPR Certificate) as evidence for verification and necessary update
D. To initiate the JQS pre-qualification process, please access www.nipex-ng.com click on services tab followed by NJQS registration.
E. To be eligible, all bidders must comply with the Nigerian Content requirements in the NipeX system.
4. NIGERIAN CONTENT REQUIREMENTS:
Chevron Nigeria Limited is committed to the development of the Nigerian Oil and Gas business in observance with the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act 2010 (NOGICD Act) enacted by the Federal Government of Nigeria in April 2010 Pursuant to enactment of the NOGICD Act, the minimum Nigerian Content in any project, service or product specification to be executed in the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry shall be consistent with the level set in the schedule of the Act and any other target as may be directed by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).
Contractors shall comply with the provisions of the NOGICD Act and all applicable regulations. Bidders that do not meet the Nigerian Content criterion will not be allowed to participate in next Tender Stage
The following are the Nigerian Content requirements bidders are expected to comply with in their technical bid submission:
a. Tenderer shall demonstrate that entity is a Nigerian-registered company with 51% or more shareholding capacity. Submit certified true copies of CAC forms 10, 02 & 07 (or its equivalent; CAC 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, etc.). Tenderer shall provide evidence of registration with the NCDMB NOGIC JQS and NUPRC.
b Tenderer shall provide detailed description of the location of in-country committed facilities not limited to administrative office, technical office, and workshop for execution of the work scope
c. Provide a project-specific organogram showing Names and Nationalities of all key personnel to be utilized in the execution of the work scope
d. Tenderer shall provide evidence of any valid category 1,2,3,4 or 5 Services and Support (SS) group NCEC demonstrating ownership of equipment to be utilized in the execution of the work scope
e Tenderer shall (via a letter of undertaking utilizing its letter headed paper) commit to:
i. Complying with the latest approved version of NCDMB HCD guideline to providing Project-Specific training, man-hour, budget, skill development and understudy plan for Nigerian personnel utilizing OGTAN registered trainer(s) or other approved NCDMB training institution(s).
ii. In line with the NOGICD Act, deduct 1% NCDF for every subcontract (if applicable) to be issued on the contract and remit same to NCDMB. Tenderer shall ensure that the 1% NCDF for all subcontracts must be priced into the commercial submission to be submitted to Operator
Non-Compliance with Nigerian Content requirements is a Fatal Flaw
5 CLOSE DATE:
Only bidders who are pre-qualified and 'live' with NJQS Product/Service Category 3.15.04 (Asset Retirement, Waste Management Services) by 16:00 Hours, May 28, 2025, being the advert close date shall be invited to submit technical and commercial bid.
Additional Information:
1. Suppliers eligible for this tender opportunity are expected to be prequalified and “live” in NJQS under the product/service category
2. The Invitation to Tender (ITT) and any further progression of this tender shall be via NipeX.
3. All costs incurred in preparing and processing NJQS prequalification shall be to the contractor's accounts.
4. Meet the requirement of Static and Dynamic Reservoir Studies.
5. This advertisement shall neither be construed as any form of commitment on the part of Chevron Nigeria Limited to award any contract to any company and or associated companies, sub-contractors, or agents, nor shall it entitle prequalified companies to make any claims whatsoever, and/or seek any indemnity from Chevron Nigeria Limited and or any of its partners by virtue of such companies having been prequalified in NJQS.
6. The tendering process shall be the NNPC Ltd contracting process requiring prequalified companies to submit technical tenders first. Following a technical review, only technically and financially qualified contractors will be requested to submit commercial tenders.
7 Chevron Nigeria Limited will communicate only with authorized officers of the pre-qualifying companies and NOT through individuals or Agents.
After an apprehensive period of unease, the Federation of State Gaming Regulators of Nigeria
unified licensing framework that may revolutionize the Nigerian gaming industry,
Ahistoric milestone in Nigeria’s gaming regulatory ecosystem was recorded recently in Lagos when member states of the Federation of State Gaming Regulators of Nigeria (FSGRN) formally signed the Sub-national Reciprocity Licensing Framework at the Radisson Hotel in Lagos. The consensus among participating states ends months of anticipation following the Supreme Court judgement last November, which ruled in favour of state governments as the lawful authority permitted by the Nigerian constitution to regulate lottery and ancillary activities. That pronouncement by the apex court effectively ended the controversial reign of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) as a pan-Nigeria regulatory agency, but it also left a palpable concern among operators who paid huge sums of money as licence fees to the defunct NLRC.
In a move aimed at supporting continuity and acknowledging previous regulatory disruptions, the FSGRN has announced a full waiver of 2025 license fees for these transitioning NLRC-licensed operators, provided they meet the requirements of the FSGRN. These operators will instead be required to renew and pay the requisite license
fees from January 1, 2026. The waiver of 2025 licensing fees for NLRC-licensed operators is effective immediately, and applications are now open through the Secretariat of the FSGRN.
The gaming regulators from across the country, under the auspices of the FSGRN, declared a unified framework for obtaining licenses for the operation of Online Sports Betting, Online Casino, Public Online Lottery, and Promotional Competitions across member states. It eliminates duplicative licensing burdens, enhances regulatory coordination, and fosters a more coherent, investor-friendly environment for operators seeking to do business within Nigeria.
Any intending operator will now only have to obtain a single “Universal Reciprocity Certificate” (URC), which authorises operations across all member states of the federation. As the FSGRN stated, “one URC covers all member states.”
As part of the transitional measures under the framework, all operators previously licensed either by the proscribed NLRC or the respective member states are required to apply for the URC through the Secretariat of the FSGRN.
At the signing event, the Chairman of the FSGRN and Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority, Mr. Bashir Are, stated, “This
GamblePause Welcomes Kikelomo Atanda-Owo as Co-founder, Trustee
GamblePause Initiative Africa has officially welcomed renowned media personality and social impact advocate, Kikelomo Atanda-Owo, as its co-founder and trustee at an event.
The event was held at the Lagos Continental Hotel.
This announcement marks a turning point in the trajectory of GamblePause, a leading non-profit organisation committed to promoting responsible gambling and supporting individuals and families affected by problem gaming across Africa.
Atanda-Owo, a seasoned broadcaster, journalist, and change-maker, is widely celebrated for her consistent advocacy on social development and her ability to bridge communities, policymakers, and institutions. Her media reach and established network are expected to amplify the visibility of GamblePause’s mission and drive new partnerships that will enhance its capacity to effect change.
Atanda-Owo shared her excitement and deep sense of responsibility about joining the leadership of GamblePause.“
I’ve followed the work of GamblePause closely,” she said. “Their impact in promoting responsible gaming, supporting recovery, and engaging stakeholders has been impressive. I’m honoured to be joining at a time when the conversation around gambling addiction and regulatory accountability is gaining momentum. Together, we can deepen the impact.”
She joins Ladipo Abiose Akolade, Founder and Executive Director of GamblePause, to co-lead the organisation into a new era of innovation and advocacy. Ladipo established GamblePause with the vision of reshaping the gaming ecosystem in Africa through education, policy reform, rehabilitation services, and
initiative underscores our collective commitment to true federalism, regulatory integrity, and economic pragmatism. With this reciprocity framework, we are creating a level playing field, upholding constitutional order, and enabling a more predictable operating environment for responsible gaming operators with utmost respect for the autonomy of respective states enshrined in the constitution.”
This development mirrors established practices in several federal jurisdictions around the world. Similar reciprocity-based or multi-jurisdictional licensing frameworks exist in countries such as the United States, where compacts between states support cross-border gaming operations; Canada, through provincial agreements; Germany, under the Interstate Treaty on Gambling; Switzerland, via the Intercantonal Gambling Concordat; and India, where various states recognize certain forms of regulated gaming activities under cooperative arrangements. These international examples affirm that Nigeria’s approach is consistent with global best practices in a country which practices constitutional federalism.
Michael Eja, Director-General of the CrossRivers Lotteries and Gaming Agency, stated that the framework reflected the spirit of inter-state collaboration that has long been missing in
our regulatory space. According to him, it is a bold statement that Nigeria’s federating units can work together to simplify processes without compromising oversight or accountability.
Olajide Boladuro of the Oyo State Gaming Board (OYSGB) noted that the Universal Reciprocity Certificate will remove unnecessary barriers to entry for licensed operators and help foster a more vibrant and competitive gaming sector across states. Boladuro pointed out that “it’s a win for innovation, investment, and the rule of law”.
Lami Bello, Director of Emerging Tax Department at the Taraba State Internal Revenue Service, disclosed that for years, operators “have been caught in a web of overlapping requirements”. The current framework, he noted, “replaces that confusion with clarity and consistency, while ensuring that each state retains its constitutional authority to regulate gaming within its borders”. This framework supports innovation, protects consumers, and promotes state-level revenue generation without compromising cross-border operational flexibility. Operators under the new licence will benefit from harmonised compliance standards, streamlined reporting protocols, and access to a broader market within a lawful, state-led system.
Leaders Gather for Responsible Gaming Symposium
stories by nseobong okon-ekong
Gamble Alert, in partnership with the Association of Nigerian Bookmakers and Aropsaid Technologies Limited, will host a ground-breaking symposium on responsible gaming, with the theme, ‘Building a Sustainable Industry Through Responsible Gaming Practices’. The event will bring together industry leaders, researchers, regulatory agencies, and mental health professionals to engage in meaningful discussions on promoting responsible gambling practices, creating safer gaming environments, and addressing problem gambling.
Scheduled to take place on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at NECA House Events Centre, Ikeja, Lagos, the symposium will feature a comprehensive agenda of keynote speakers, plenary sessions, and interactive
Gaming, Tech Experts Converge on Kenya
The ultimate convergence of innovation, creativity, and technology, tailored to the rapidly growing gaming industry across the African continent, is set to take place at the Safari Park Hotel, Nairobi, Kenya.
This premier event brings together game developers, industry leaders, tech enthusiasts, and investors to explore cutting-edge advancements shaping the future of gaming. From immersive AR-VR experiences to ground-breaking eSports innovations, the summit offers insightful panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and unparalleled networking opportunities.
Holding under the theme, ‘Gaming Tech Summit Africa 2025’, it is envisioned as a meeting for visionary creators, aspiring developers and tech entrepreneurs; to serve as a gateway to unlocking new possibilities and driving the evolution of gaming in Africa and beyond.
workshops, all focused on advancing responsible gaming initiatives. It aims to provide insights into the latest research, tools, and innovative strategies that empower gaming companies and stakeholders to prioritise player safety and well-being.
As part of its ongoing commitment to promoting responsible gaming, GambleAlert has successfully implemented various initiatives, including financial literacy programmes to empower individuals to make informed financial decisions. The advocacy body has also deepened participation in its flagship programme, ‘Across the Wave’, which facilitates community and industry engagement through public forums and expert discussions, providing valuable insights into public opinion and industry best practices.
The symposium will build on these initiatives, covering a range of topics, including responsible gaming for sustainability and integrity, promoting compliance and sustainability, and treating and supporting problem gamblers. The symposium is a critical step towards promoting healthier gaming practices and reducing problem gaming. Attendees will include gaming regulators, policymakers, gaming operators, treatment providers and researchers.
Representatives of member states of the Federation of s tate Gaming Regulators of n igeria....after signing the historic unified gaming regulatory protocol
kikelomo a tanda- o wo (l) with Ladipo a biose
L-R: Managing Director/CEO, NIBSS, Mr. Premier Oiwoh; Deputy Governor, Financial System Stability, CBN, Mr. Philip Ikeazor; Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria,
and Deputy Governor, Economic Policy, CBN, Mr. Muhammad Sani Abdullahi, at the official launch of the Non-Resident BVN Framework
Cybersecurity: Strategies Must Remain Agile, Forwardlooking in Combating National Threats, Says NSA
National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu says in tackling rising threats to national security by actors who have become more sophisticated and coordinated, strategies already in place must remain agile and forward-looking.
Ribadu said the tools and tactics they employed, from artificial intelligence-driven attacks to supply chain infiltrations and persistent threats targeting national infrastructure, demanded a strong cybersecurity workforce, which was the true foundation of national resilience.
yesterday in Abuja at the 2025 Information Technology Professionals Assembly, themed, “National Cybersecurity policy: Implementation and effectiveness.”
as such, strategies and technologies, no matter how robust, could not succeed without people.
Ribadu’s comments were contained in his keynote address
Represented by the director in the office of the NSA, Professor Abdullahi Ya’u, Ribadu said a strong cybersecurity workforce was the true foundation of national resilience and
He stated that cybersecurity was no longer a technical or regulatory issue, but a national imperative and prerequisite for innovation, investment, and sustainable development.
Reiterating that the federal government will continue to strengthen
Commissioner: 30 Per cent of Lagos Civil Servants on State-sponsored Training Abroad Fail to Return
Segun James Lagos State Government admitted that over 30 per cent of its workforce on state sponsored trainings abroad failed to return. Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Afolabi Ayantayo, who revealed this yesterday, said as a way of improving the human capacity development of its staff, the state government organised training programmes abroad for them.
But Ayantayo lamented that some the staff used the opportunity to elope and refuse to return.
According to him, “A total of 23,420 staff members benefitted from various training interventions between May 2022 and December 2024. Within the same period, over 185 training programmes were organised which cut across multiple cadres, skill levels and thematic areas relevant to public sector efficiency, leadership development and regula-
tory compliance.” He said about 8,000 staff from different Ministries, Departments and Agencies who were granted approval to go on study leave in the last three years to enhance their professional skills did not return.
The commissioner said the government had trained and inducted a total of 51,045 staff out of its workforce of 101,108 between 2023 and 2024 to augment their capacities and productivity.
Ayantayo said, “As part of efforts to foster cross-sectoral learning and deepen institutional capacity, the ministry recently completed the onboarding process for officers selected under the Public-Private Sector Personnel Exchange Programme. The programme aims to promote knowledge transfer and collaboration between public institutions and private sector organisations.”
The commissioner added, “To date, preliminary orientation and
deployment planning including engagement sessions with participating private sector partners have been briefed on their roles and expected outcomes. Out of the figure, 17 have been matched with organizations whilst 33 others will be matched soon.”
In the area of industrial relations, the commissioner stated, “We have maintained peaceful and harmonious labour relations through sustained dialogue and engagement with organized labour unions.
“We have successfully resolved Industrial disputes and grievances through proactive mediation, preventing avoidable strikes and disruptions in public service delivery.”
Ayantayo explained the state government was looking into the issues behind the industrial action by staff of the state’s broadcasting stations.
He disclosed that the affected workers were not originally employed
by the state government and that was why they were not on Oracle.
While stressing the state government’s determination to have an effective workforce, Ayantayo stated, “Not yet Uhuru for us but we have the experts who are qualified not only on the certificates used in gaining employment but also the training they have acquired over the years.”
The commissioner stated that various commissions were in charge of discipline, promotion and sack of workers, saying, “It doesn’t fall within our purview to provide such information.”
policy frameworks, deepen interagency collaboration, invest in talent development, and modernise the national cybersecurity infrastructure, Ribadu said it remained the bedrock upon which the nation’s digital economy and critical services rested.
He said, “Threat actors are becoming more sophisticated, more resourced, and more coordinated. The tools and tactics they employ - from artificial intelligence-driven attacks to supply chain infiltrations and persistent threats targeting national infrastructure, demand that our strategies remain agile and forward-looking.
“Cybersecurity is no longer just a technical or regulatory issue. It is a national imperative. It is a prerequisite for innovation, investment, and sustainable development. It is the bedrock upon which our digital economy, our critical services, and indeed our national sovereignty stand.
“Cybersecurity remains a top priority of the federal government of Nigeria. We will continue to strengthen our policy frameworks, deepen inter-agency collaboration, invest in talent development, and modernise our national cybersecurity infrastructure.”
Ribadu added that the NCPS 2021
will reach its four-year mark in 2025.
“In line with global practice, where such strategies are typically reviewed every five years, very soon, we will be reaching out to commence the process of its review,” he said.
In his welcome address, President/ Chairman of the Council of Computer Professionals Registration Council of Nigeria, Mr. Kole Jagun, said with more than 45 per cent of the world population connected to the cyberspace, and with a growing number across the globe, cyberspace had become a driving force for productivity and development, which made the protection of critical information infrastructure a national security responsibility that required government, public and private sector to collaborate and synergise. He added that the 2025 IT Professionals’ Assembly focused on appraisal of the implementation and effectiveness of the National Cybersecurity Policy, viz-a-viz the National Cybersecurity Governance, Coordination and Assurance Mechanism, Cybersecurity Capacity Building and Manpower Development, among other issues that were pertinent to mitigating the country’s cyber risk exposure.
Lassa Fever: WAHO Seeks to Accelerate Vaccine Access in West Africa
focused effort to develop, introduce, and ensure equitable access to Lassa fever vaccines.
Stop Terrorists from Attacking Troop Locations
CDS Tasks Commanders to Evolve Hybrid Strategy to
Linus Aleke in Abuja
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, on Wednesday tasked new commanders in all operational theatres to evolve a hybrid strategy to degrade the capacities of terrorists and bandits and prevent them from attacking military formations and vulnerable communities.
There has been a resurgence of attacks on military formations in recent weeks, with terrorists reportedly and allegedly invading and dislodging troops from their bases in Yobe and Borno.
But speaking during the Defence Headquarters’ Maiden Workshop on Psychological Operations in Abuja, the CDS, General Musa, stated that the workshop is designed to explore other forms of operations.
The workshop, he averred, is also carefully designed to ensure that the full spectrum of psychological operations is brought out to the
fullest, so as to achieve the purpose of the workshop.
According to him, “With the recent changes in some of the commands in the theatres, we expect new strategies to further destroy the capacities of terrorists to attack troops’ locations and isolated communities. We need non-kinetic activities, particularly psychological operations, to shape the environment in favour of the ultimate aim of all ongoing operations.
“We understand that the prevalent threats in Nigeria’s internal security landscape will not be tackled through kinetic operations alone. This is largely due to the continuous mutation in the nature and character of the threats, as well as the asymmetric dimension that the threats have assumed within the nation’s contemporary operating environment.
“This situation therefore presumes that the threat has since gone beyond purely traditional
military actions, but requires a combination of robust and wellcoordinated non-kinetic efforts by all stakeholders to support our kinetic actions.”
He stated that from a kinetic perspective, troops have continued to deny insurgents/terrorists freedom of action, despite isolated attacks on troops’ locations.
The CDS said that the military and other security agencies are more than ever determined to go after all non-state actors to restore peace and stability in the country.
He explained that the nation has, in recent times, grappled with complex security challenges and threats.
These threats, he said, have brought to the fore some occurrences that threaten the peace and security of the nation and have undoubtedly continued to test the resolve of the Nigerian people and the capacity of security agencies to discharge their constitutional roles.
The West African Health Organisation (WAHO) has kick-started a regionally focused effort to develop, introduce, and ensure equitable access to Lassa fever vaccines within the subregion.
The organization unveiled plans to expand the Lassa Fever Coalition, partnering three prominent regional health organisations.
These include Corona Management Systems, Nigeria Health Watch, and Bloom Public Health as new partners in its mission to fight Lassa fever and fast-track vaccine access across the region.
A statement by Deputy Director, Press and Public Relations in the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Alaba Balogun said the announcement of the deal was made during the annual ECOWAS Assembly of Health Ministers Meeting.
According to the statement, deal marked a significant step forward for the Coalition, which is supported by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) in Oslo / Bobo-dioulasso, Burkina Faso.
It said the newly onboarded partners will support the Coalition’s Secretariat, helping WAHO coordinate a locally led, regionally
According to Balogun, Ministers of Health from Benin, Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone countries most affected by Lassa fever are core members of the Coalition.
Balogun quoted Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, and Chair of the ECOWAS Assembly of Health Ministers, Prof. Mohammad Ali Pate, as having said the expansion of the Lassa Fever coalition, “ is not just a strategic step, but a powerful affirmation of what is possible when African nations rise together in common cause”.
Pate said the new partnerships reflected a deeper regional shift toward health sovereignty, adding, “Under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we are deliberately building resilient systems to anticipate and prevent outbreaks.
“This is more than a Coalition, it is a blueprint for future epidemic preparedness and a model of how solidarity can deliver health security across West Africa and beyond.”
WAHO Director General, Dr. Melchior Athanase Joël. Aissi, emphasized the urgent need for transnational cooperation. “In today’s interconnected world, no single country can address Lassa
fever alone. Our new partners bring critical expertise that will accelerate outbreak responses and enhance access to life-saving tools.”
In his remarks, the Managing Director of Corona Management Systems and Coalition Secretariat spokesperson, Chijioke Kaduru, said: “We are proud to support WAHO in driving a unified regional response. By focusing on coordination, capacitybuilding and preparedness, we can lay the groundwork for equitable access to Lassa fever vaccines.”
On his part, Dr. Richard Hatchett highlighted the critical role of the Coalition’s expanded Secretariat in turning vaccine research into reality.
“Their regional expertise is vital to creating an environment where vaccine development and access strategies can thrive,” he said. The secretariat of the coalition is to be headquartered in Nigeria, with teams also deployed in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Benin. Their work will include supporting vaccine research and development, liaising with developers and funders, strengthening scientific capacity for clinical trials, and creating end-to-end vaccine access plans tailored to regional needs. Lassa fever, a viral haemorrhagic illness first identified over 50 years ago, continues to affect hundreds of thousands annually.
Mr. Olayemi Cardoso;
(NRBVN) in Abuja… Tuesday
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
tiparty election in Sierra Leone that produced a President-elect in Teejan Kabbah. But shortly before the duo were locked in for three hours, Sankoh questioned Bio’s commitment to ending the war in Sierra Leone in a rambling speech that lasted 16 minutes. “Why did you come in combat uniform?” Sankoh asked. “This was supposed to be a peace conference.”
Notwithstanding, Bio said he had a very candid session with the notorious rebel leader who warned him that the only way peace could be guaranteed in Sierra Leone was for him (Bio) to remain in power to execute the agreements. “I saw sense in many of the points Sankoh was making about the need to consolidate the agreements and I felt if we extended the transition programme, we could find lasting solutions to many of the issues. I recall my conversations with General Abacha who told me there was no point in any hasty arrangement to hand over power. But it was a delicate thing, as I didn’t want to be seen as wanting to hang on to power. That was not my intention. So, I decided to call a big conference of all stakeholders in Sierra Leone. I laid my cards on the table. I explained the dilemma of the moment and that I had no personal wish to stay in power beyond ensuring a lasting peace. The opposition was instant and vehement.”
Following the meeting, Bio decided to go with the consensus that he should hand over power and leave. But deep down, as he told me on Monday, he knew the peace he was leaving behind in Sierra Leone was that of the graveyard and that it would not endure. He felt that the political leaders at the time were too obsessed with the trappings of powers to see the dangers. Not surprisingly, the ‘Yamoussoukro Accord’ collapsed shortly after Bio left office and the country again descended into violence until the intervention of world powers in January 1999 which led to the ‘Lome Accord’ in Togo. That temporary truce resulted in Sankoh being offered the vice presidency and control of Sierra Leone’s diamond mines in return for a cessation of hostilities. But despite the deployment of a United Nations Mission in Sierra Leone (UNAMSIL) peacekeeping force to monitor the disarmament process, the brutal war erupted again and did not end until 2002.
Although Bio’s decision not to renege on handing over power in 1996 as promised may have helped him when seeking the votes to be Sierra Leonean President two decades later, he believes the country paid a heavy price for it. With an estimated 2.5 million people displaced in a country that was then about five million in population and no fewer than 50,000 people killed, the ‘Diamond War’ in Sierra Leone remains one of the biggest humanitarian disasters on the continent. My Pastor, Evaristus Azodoh, a consultant urologist and retired army colonel, was Commander of the ECOMOG Task Force Field Hospital in Freetown between April 1998 and August 1999 and he has on several occasions shared gory stories of that war in which many Nigerian soldiers also perished.
After handing over power and leaving Sierra Leone, Bio spent the first six months in Paris learning French (he shared the reasons with me) before heading to the United States where he was offered political asylum. He did not return to his country until 2005. Eventually, Bio joined the Sierra Leone Peoples Party (SLPP) and in 2022 contested the presidential election. He was defeated by then incumbent President Ernest Bai Koroma. In a second attempt in
office in Uyo by Ogban, there had been some unsavoury developments at the Ikot Ekpene senatorial collation centre that led to the intervention of the then Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the state, Mr Mike Igini.” INEC acted illegally by hijacking the collated results from Ikot Ekpene to Uyo where the votes were severely mutilated to achieve a predetermined goal by a supposed umpire who was quoted severally to have said that “under my watch Akpabio cannot win any election in Akwa Ibom State.”
The assertion by Adeniyi quoting an INEC staff that “Thugs had gone on the rampage in most parts of the LGA as soon as the polls were open. They snatched and stuffed ballot boxes, foreclosed the use of Smart Card Readers, brutalised INEC ad hoc personnel and prevented voters from exercising their franchise,” sounds very familiar. At the Election Petition Tribunal, INEC brought many of their adhoc staff whom they had coached to claim that elections were disrupted in Essien Udim Local Government Area by thugs purportedly hired by Akpabio.
The witnesses at the Tribunal were more dramatic. They painted pictures of how
2018, Bio was elected President and was in 2023, re-elected for his second and final term. Meanwhile, I arrived Sierra Leone on Sunday on the same flight from Abuja with former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, the Director General of the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Amara Nwankpa and former Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa. Osinbajo was the keynote speaker at the ‘Julius Maada Bio Leadership Colloquium’ with the theme, ‘From Vision to Impact: The People-Centered Leadership Model.’ Incidentally, as we milled around the hall on Monday, waiting for the colloquium to commence, Bawa dragged me to meet someone. “This is Francis Kaifala, head of the Sierra Leonean anti-corruption agency, a very good friend and former colleague.” Smiling, Kaifala said to me, “Yes, he was my colleague until he left me.” To this, Bawa interjected, “I didn’t leave you, I was sacked,” and we all laughed. Bawa and I were seated together and that provided another story of its own. During the programme, Bawa nudged me to read a message he had just received on his phone. It’s the link to a news report where a group, ‘Citizens Forum for Transparency and Integrity (CFTI)’ alleged “a coordinated and sinister plot” by Bawa and others to derail the 2027 re-election bid of President Bola Tinubu. “See me, see trouble! How do I respond to this now?” asked Bawa, who had earlier told me he was working on his PhD. and soon to release a book on the downstream sector of the petroleum industry in Nigeria titled, ‘The Shadow of Loot and Losses: Uncovering Nigeria’s Petroleum Subsidy Fraud’.
On a lighter note, when introducing Osinbajo, Vice President Mohammed Jalloh of Sierra Leone joked that our former vice president attended the University of Lagos and not a ‘great’ Nigerian university like his. Jalloh obtained his master’s in political science from the University of Ibadan before his doctorate at the University of Bordeaux in France. In his keynote speech, Osinbajo said elections alone do not constitute democracy. “True democracy
thugs invaded polling units in the Local Government Area, shot at everyone, hijacked electoral officers and materials and took them to unknown locations where figures were arbitrarily allocated to Akpabio. However, the lead Counsel to Akpabio, S. I. Ameh, SAN, asked the INEC witnesses, did the so-called thugs in anyway realize that what they did was wrong and later brought back the personnel and materials for the election to be conducted to which they answered that there was nothing of the sort. However, the card reader reports produced by the same INEC tendered by Ameh showed that elections were held and captured the biometrics of the voters. These are the votes that were unilaterally cancelled by Igini under the spurious claim that thugs did not allow elections to be held in Essien Udim.
It is worth noting that the Election Tribunal had a split judgement. The minority judgement by Justice Sheriff Hafizu has remained a huge moral burden on INEC and those who claimed the election was rigged in favour of Akpabio. As reported by THE PUNCH newspaper of 12 September 2019, with the headline, ‘Tribunal robbed Senator Akpabio of victory - Justice
delivers dignity—food on the table, education for children, safety in our streets, and hope for the future,” said Osinbajo who urged African leaders to adopt people-centred governance, “a development paradigm that places the needs and voices of the vast majority—particularly those at the bottom of the pyramid—at the heart of policymaking.” This, he said, “is a call to reimagine leadership—not as the power to rule, but as the duty to serve.
Citing a 2023 perception survey by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on the preferred option for governance on the continent, Osinbajo said about 89 percent opted for democracy. “So, the issue is not democracy, it is how the political practitioners of democracy can ensure that the government of the people by the people for the people does not forget the aches and pains of the people”, Osinbajo said. “To make people-centred governance work we must move decisively from top-down elite focused strategies to bottom-up, inclusive development.”
In his own address, Bio highlighted his primary goals in leadership to include improving human capital development, promoting gender equality, and strengthening democratic institutions. He also promised that the colloquium would be an annual event to provoke conversations on how to anchor leadership on good governance and the rule of law - not only in Sierra Leone but across the African continent. “As a young soldier answering the call to duty during one of the darkest chapters in our nation’s history, I learned that leadership might begin in crisis, but it must endure beyond it,” Bio said while drawing from his experiences both in the military as a ‘dictator’ and now as an elected civilian president. “Every negotiation with political and military leaders, and every conversation with concerned civilians, taught me one immutable truth: leadership is not conferred by rank or title, but by the bond of trust between those who lead and those they serve.”
Leadership that does not require a title or recognition is the one that counts the most, according to Bio. And they can be found in
Hafizu’, the report said: “The Minority Judge also submitted that the Witnesses of the Respondents were unreliable as they gave contradictory evidence during trial. He cited cases of witnesses who had alleged that they were abducted by APC thugs and forced to thumb-print for the party only for card reader reports to put a lie to such claims, a contention that the majority judgement glossed over. According to Justice Hafizu, INEC was wrong to have cancelled the 61,329 votes by APC in Essien Udim Local Government Area against PDP score of 9,050 votes. He said the unlawful cancellation of the votes was a clear case of robbery since it did not follow the due process of INEC guidelines.” The Judges at the Appeal Court were equally so peeved by the cancellation of collated votes of Akpabio by Igini that they annulled the Tribunal judgement and ordered a rerun election by which time Akpabio had assumed duties as Minister of Niger Delta Affairs and declined to participate in the rerun election.
Fast forward to 2023. Akpabio contested against a legal luminary, Emmanuel Enoidem, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and the immediate past National Legal Adviser of the Peoples
most places, especially on the continent: “In the midnight vigil of a nurse attending to sick people, in the steady hands of a miner delving into the earth’s depths, in the tireless journeys of a motorcyclist linking remote villages, in the patient guidance of a mother who gathers her children to read beneath a fading lamp light.” These men and women, Bio says, “are the silent heroes whose dedication sustains our daily lives.”
In his fireside chat with Kingsley Okeke, a brand and communication strategist, Bio shared insights as to why democracy remains the best option for governance. He also recounted what happened after he and other young soldiers toppled President Momoh on 29 April 1992. “We were young men, we didn’t know all the processes, we didn’t consider that when you remove a government, you had to replace it with something,” said Bio who admitted that their principal mission was to dismantle the one-party arrangement that had made democracy a joke in the country and remove from power a government they believed was not serving the interest of the people.
There are many lessons from my conversation with Bio that will serve us in Nigeria. But let me highlight just two. One, the contagious nature of crisis, as we saw in how the war in Liberia moved quickly to Sierra Leone—which is being replicated in the challenge of terrorism in the Sahel. This compels our leaders to adopt the motto of the Boys Scout by being always prepared. The inability of the political leadership in Sierra Leone to read the situation correctly in the early nineties led to the war that shattered their country. The second lesson is about Bio himself: The courage of conviction that led to the choices he made at the time, even when they were not necessarily cost-free.
That precisely happened to be the Kernel of my point to Bawa about the ill-fated 2022/2023 Naira confiscation policy of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), in which he played a principal role as EFCC chairman. That decision was neither justified by the moment nor vindicated by its outcomes. The hardship it imposed on millions of Nigerians remains fresh. And yet, just like Bio’s experience has shown, history has a way of reconsidering its judgments. Depending on what may yet transpire, even that decision by Bawa and confederates might one day be viewed through a more forgiving lens. Overall, the conversations in Freetown were candid but it is on the story of the Sierra Leonean war that I have had to reflect. Could it have been averted? Bio believes it could have, and I tend to agree with him. And that’s where leadership comes in. For, as Anders Eklung, a Swiss leadership mentor and coach reminds us, when we look at ‘war zones’, whether on the battlefield or in an office, “we can see the painful consequences of leadership falling short, missed opportunities, and big egos placed above improvement, empathy, and compassion.”
At the end, my main takeaway from the engagements during the colloquium to my private audience with Bio and informal chats with other stakeholders—including Osinbajo and immediate past ECOWAS Parliament Speaker, Dr Mohamed Sidie Tunis—is that the attention of African leadership discourse must shift from mere elections to the concerns of the ordinary people. Until those issues are constructively addressed, our continent will continue to project to the rest of the world an image of poverty, disease, ignorance, disasters and wars.
Democratic Party (PDP). By this time the Principality at INEC who had vowed that Akpabio can never win any election in Akwa Ibom State had left the stage. The senatorial election was so overwhelmingly won by Akpabio that his opponent, so well versed in law, never bothered to challenge it at the Tribunal. To Akwa Ibom people, it was laughable that anybody would think that Akpabio would rig any election moreso in his Local Government Area where he has remained a hero because of the development he had brought to the area. The election of 2023 which had no legal challenge is the mandate upon which Akpabio currently serves as the President of the Senate.
A thorough reading of the judgment that convicted Ogban, as well as the Court of Appeal decision, makes it abundantly clear that Akpabio was not mentioned, indicted, or found to have benefitted from Ogban’s unethical actions. If anything, Akpabio was a victim of rigging by the same institution which was supposed to be an unbiased umpire. •Ekong is Special Assistant (Media/ Communication) to the President of the Senate.
RIGHT
President Bio of Sierra Leone
Awoniyi in Induced Coma after Abdominal Surgery
Nigeria and Nottingham Forest striker, Taiwo Awoniyi, is in an induced coma after having the first phase of surgery on a serious abdominal injury.
The Super Eagles player, 27, collided with the post in the 88th minute of the 2-2 draw against Leicester at the City Ground on Sunday as he attempted to get on the end of a cross from Anthony Elanga.
Sources told BBC Sport that Awoniyi suffered a ruptured intestine in the collision.
He had surgery on Monday night and remains in hospital, with the rest of the procedure set to be completed on Wednesday.
In a statement on Tuesday Forest said Awoniyi was “recovering well” following the operation.
Awoniyi, a late substitute for Ibrahim Sangare on Sunday, received lengthy treatment on the pitch.
Elanga was in an offside position when he collected the ball but the assistant referee did not raise their flag until after Awoniyi’s collision.
When an immediate goalscoring opportunity is likely to occur, assistant referees are told to keep
their flag down until the passage of play is complete.
If a goal is scored the incident can be reviewed by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR).
Although this allows goals to be scored, critics say the protocol needlessly endangers players.
Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis took to the field after the game to express his concern
Nigeria, S’Africa Rekindle Rivalry as Flying Eagles Set to Settle Old Scores
Kunle Adewale
Nigeria’s U20 Coach, Aliyu Zubairu, has said that the Flying Eagles are fired up and ready for a fiery semifinal battle against South Africa’s Amajita in the CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations in Ismailia today.
Fresh off a dramatic 3-1 penalty shootout victory over holders Senegal after 120 gruelling minutes, Nigeria are eyeing another big scalp and a place in the final — as they face familiar rivals South Africa at the Suez Canal Authority Stadium.
While the Flying Eagles impressed against Senegal, Zubairu believes his boys could be set to play their best match at the tournament against the South Africans.
“We know the rivalry between
Nigeria and South Africa. I believe we are going to have a great semifinal against the South Africans,” Zubairu told the NFF website.
“I can guarantee that our approach will be much better, as the anxiety of whether or not we will earn a FIFA World Cup ticket is no longer there. It was a tense 120 minutes for ourselves and the defending champions on Monday.
“We have the World Cup ticket now and are quite happy. Against South Africa, we will play with great determination and composure, as we aim for the trophy, but without the tense atmosphere around the last match.
“Of course, we know the little matter of the rivalry between Nigeria and South Africa and what the game means, and we will go in there to do a real battle.”
The former El-Kanemi Warriors boss believes his side has grown significantly since their tournament opener against Tunisia and will deliver an improved performance in the last four.
“We can all see that the team has improved, and actually getting better with each match. We will go all out against the South Africans.”
The rivalry between the two nations stretches back decades. While Nigeria boast a record seven
U20 titles (1983, 1985, 1987, 1989, 2005, 2011, 2015), South Africa have never lifted the trophy. Their best finish came in 1997 as runners-up.
The two sides have met in crunch fixtures before. Nigeria edged South Africa for third place in 2009, with the Flying Eagles claiming a 2-1 win.
However, South Africa got back their pound of flesh ten years later as the Amajitas defeated Nigeria via penalties to claim the bronze medal.
While Nigeria knocked out Senegal in the quarter-finals, South Africa advanced to the semi-finals after a 1-0 extra-time win over DR Congo, also in Ismailia.
The winner of this semi-final will face either Egypt or Morocco, who meet later in Cairo.
Fraser-Pryce Back, to be in Doha for Diamond League Series
At least seven Olympic champions will be in the Qatari capital of Doha for the third stop of the 2025 Diamond League track and field series on Friday 16 May. The meet will feature plenty of exciting match-ups, highlighted by the return of three-time Olympic gold medallist Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce to the circuit in the women’s 100m.
With the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo barely four months away, several world medallists will also be in action.
The return of Fraser-Pryce, one of the most decorated sprinters in history, to the Qatar Sports Club, has dominated headlines in the run-up to the series meet in Doha.
The Jamaican star hasn’t competed at the Doha Diamond League since taking victory in the 100m in 2021.
Speaking ahead of her race - which comes shortly after claiming a bronze medal at the recently concluded World Relays in Guangzhou - the Jamaican
superstar said: “My focus remains sharp, and I approach this season with the same levels of discipline, passion, and determination that have defined my career. Every race is an opportunity, and I’m committed to making each one count.”
She will be joined on the blocks by double world indoor champion Mujinga Kambunji, and compatriots Tina and her twin sister Tia Clayton. Letsile Tebogo, the 200m Olympic champion, will make his debut in Doha in the men’s 100m, the event in which he took silver behind Noah Lyles at the 2023 Worlds.
It will be the history-making Botswanan’s second outing over the 200m this season, following his thrilling home victory at the Botswana Grand Prix. He’s stepping up to his preferred distance after finishing seventh in Xiamen and third in Shanghai/Keqiao in the shorter sprint.
He will be up against Olympic champions Canadian Aaron Brown
and Filippo Tortu of Italy as he builds up to the Worlds. “It’s going to be a
he shared. The distance events are also stacked with world-class talent. All three Olympic steeplechase medallists from Paris 2024 will line up in Doha, setting the stage for an exciting race. Olympic champion Winfred Yavi will look to recapture the magic of her Stade de France triumph as she faces off with silver and bronze medallists Peruth Chemutai and Faith Cherotich. Neeraj Chopra will return to Doha for a third consecutive year. In his second event of the season - following a win at the Potch Invitational Meet in South Africa last month - the Indian ace will be joined on the javelin runway by fellow Olympic gold medallist Keshorn Walcott (London 2012), as well as world champions Anderson Peters of Grenada and Kenyan Julius Yego. Chopra will be targeting another podium finish in the Qatari capital after finishing second behind Jakub Vadlejch in 2023.
to manager Nuno Espirito Santo over how Awoniyi’s injury was handled.
Marinakis is being kept updated on the forward’s condition.
IBB Club
Members of IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja have made frantic appeals to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to intervene in the intractable crisis at the club and expedite the reopening of the golf course.
The appeal came after THISDAY exclusively reported on Monday that the federal government may not reopen the golf course until next year because of the crisis.
THISDAY had reported earlier that the golf course located in the precinct of the Three- Arm-Zone had been locked from its members and the public by policemen and DSS officials since April 26 to prevent vandalism.
Also, the FCT Administration and the Ministry of Works had contacted Julius Berger to renovate the course to international standard.
The report sent panic among some of the members, who pleaded that the issues be resolved promptly to allow the reopening of the course while renovation was being carried out.
Agitated members also urged Wike and the Board of Trustees to disregard some of the aggrieved members that took the minister and the BOT to court, saying the
litigants were not representing them. It was gathered that 200 members signed a petition against the litigants that initiated the court process against Wike and his appointed BOT.
However, when the opinion of a BOT member and the President of Nigeria Golf Federation (NGF), Otunba Olusegun Runsewe was sought on the subject, he said he could not comment on anything as the matter was already before a court of competent jurisdiction.
“The Chairman BoT, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem has warned that no member of the board should on any account comment or meet under the auspices of the BOT platform.
“She (the Honorable Justice Dongban-Mensem) as the BOT chairman and President of the Appeal Court, said the case is in court and that we should refrain from commenting,” Runsewe said. It would be recalled that Wike, who on April 26, appointed the Interim Management Committee (IMC) headed by Dr Peter Deshi, had pleaded that the committee should be allowed to carry out its function so that the club property can be protected and safeguarded from people who are considering selling the golf course, which remains a government asset.
Members Beg Wike to Reopen Golf Course Ola Aina Set for New Deal at
Super Eagles and Nottingham Forest defender, Ola Aina, is set for a contract extension at the City Ground amidst interest from Manchester City.
The 28-year-old has been one of Forest’s best players in the English Premier League this season, particularly defensively, and his absence due to a calf injury has more or less cost the Reds a place in the top-four.
Aina’s contract at the City Ground runs out at the end of June, and the former Chelsea full-back isn’t short of interest from home and abroad. However, it appears he’ll be with Nuno Espirito Santo’s men beyond this campaign.
According to UK’s Telegraph, Ola Aina is expected to sign a new deal soon as the contract has been on
the table for months. Additionally, he has already triggered an extra year which will cover next season. When fully fit, the former Torino defender has played every game for the two-time UEFA Champions League winners this season, and an improved deal is nothing less than deserved. He has scored two goals and provided one assists in the English top-flight this term. Nottingham Forest are currently 7th on the English Premier League table, and with two league games left to play, their chances of making the Champions League places are still wide open, although they’ll be needing help from elsewhere.
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has promised a spectacular opening ceremony for the 22nd National Sports Festival (NSF), which is set to kick off May 16 inside the MKO Abiola Sports Complex.
The Governor assured all the 36 states and the FCT that the Ogun would exceed expectations with an extraordinary show at the opening ceremony.
“We are going to have a colourful and spectacular opening ceremony, unlike anything seen before in the history of the National Sports Festival.
“Beyond the opening ceremony, we want attendees to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience at
the games, which is why we are ensuring all our tourist centres are in top shape before the festival begins,” he said. For the visiting teams, the Governor further stressed that efforts are in full swing to prepare all tourists centres scattered across the state.
“We want our visitors to look forward to returning to Ogun State, which is why we have temporarily closed all our tourist centres, including the popular Olumo Rock, to ensure they are in excellent condition for our guests to enjoy during the games. We want all our visitors to feel at home and enjoy the beautiful atmosphere set for the festival,” he added.
On Tuesday Forest said Awoniyi’s injury was “a powerful reminder of the physical risks in the game and why a player’s health and wellbeing must always come first”.
Flying Eagles set to take their pound of flesh from South Africans in today’s semi final clash in Egypt
