Issuu

AFC Appoints CBN Governor, Yemi Cardoso Board Chairman Nume Ekeghe in Bangkok,Thailand

SENIOR ADVOCATES SWEARING-IN CEREMONY...

TEMPLARS Founding Partner, Oghogho Akpata (SAN) (centre) ﬂanked by the ﬁrm’s Senior Advocates of Nigeria at the swearing-in ceremony of Mr. Sadiku Ilegieuno (SAN) and Mrs. Igonikon Adekunle (SAN) as Senior Advocates of Nigeria in Abuja on Monday

The Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), the continent’s leading infrastructure solutions provider, yesterday announced Continued on page 8 Thursday 15 October, 2026 Vol 31. No 11512. Price: N400

www.thisdaylive.com TR

UT H

& RE A S O

Tinubu: I’m Ready to Renew Pact With Nigerians, Inaugurates 2027 Campaign Council Says governance must not be grounded, as Nigeria needs fixing Shettima throws jabs at Atiku, Obi, says nation can’t be governed with borrowed statistics Yari: campaign for Tinubu will be performance driven Wike to APC Govs: don’t claim Tinubu’s victory if you failed to deliver your states Yilwatda: Tinubu’s reforms deserve continuity Rainbow coalition on course for Tinubu’s 2027 victory, senate maintains Sani tasks appointees on president’s election Atiku: inauguration of Tinubu’s campaign council in Aso Rock abuse of public office APC’s campaign council a Nebuchadnezzar coalition heading for the rocks, says MDPCO Soludo, Adeleke optimistic about Tinubu’s victory Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha, Emmanuel Addeh, Adedayo Akinwale, Sunday Aborisade in Abuja and John Shiklam in Kaduna President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, declares his readiness to renew covenant with Nigerians ahead of the official launch of his second term campaign, billed to kick off in Kaduna on October 24. The president, who foreclosed the possibility of being present at all the campaign grounds nationwide, said the pressing needs of the country required his attention, stressing that governance must continue side-by-side electioneering. Speaking while inaugurating the Continued on page 8

NEWLY SWORN-IN SILKS...

L-R: Olajide Salami (SAN); Mustapha Olayinka Ajenifuja (SAN) and Olugbenga Olusanya Ajala (SAN) newly sworn in Senior Advocates of Nigeria, yesterday

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, t T H I S D AY

THISDAY • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026

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

NEWS

DANGOTE PETROLEUM REFINERY ROADSHOW AT THE BOTSWANA STOCK EXCHANGE...

L-R: Mr. Temi Popoola, Group Managing Director/CEO, Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group); Neo Mooki, Chairperson, Botswana Stock Exchange; Aliko Dangote, President and Chief Executive, Dangote Industries Limited; Honourable Bogolo Joy Kenewendo, Minister of Minerals & Energy, Botswana; Alhaji (Dr.) Umaru Kwairanga, Group Chairman, NGX Group; and Mr. Shehu Shantali, Managing Director/CEO, Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS), at the Dangote Petroleum Reﬁnery Roadshow held at the Botswana Stock Exchange, Botswana... yesterday

NERC: Metering Rate Now 63.1%, 4.7m Customers Still Without Devices Discos install 141,746 meters in August, 159,980 in July Eko leads with 89.64% coverage, Jos emerges lowest Regulator says faulty meters must be fixed within 48 hours Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Nigeria’s electricity metering rate rose marginally to 63.1 per cent in August, but still left about 4.7 million active electricity customers without meters despite several government-backed interventions to close the gap. The latest metering factsheet released by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) yesterday showed that the number of metered customers increased from 7.90 million in July to 8.05 million in August, while the total number of active customers rose from 12.67 million to 12.75 million over the period. The figures mean that 4,704,224 customers remained unmetered at the end of August, underscoring the scale of the challenge facing the electricity distribution companies (Discos) and the federal government’s efforts to eliminate estimated billing. However, the monthly pace of installations slowed, with 141,746 customers newly metered in August, compared with 159,980 in July. The August figure represented a decline of 18,234 installations, or 11.4 per cent, from the previous month. The marginal improvement in the overall metering rate came as the electricity regulator outlined existing metering interventions and reiterated consumer protections covering meter installation, repairs,

billing and disconnection. A breakdown of the figures showed significant disparities among the 11 Discos, with some achieving relatively high coverage while others continued to lag behind. For instance, Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) recorded the highest metering rate at 89.64 per cent, followed by Ikeja at 87.74 per cent and Abuja at 82.62 per cent. Port Harcourt also recorded a relatively strong performance, with its metering rate rising to 71 per cent in August from 69.61 per cent in July. Benin improved from 63.21 per cent to 64.41 per cent, while Ibadan’s rate rose from 58.59 per cent to 59.23 per cent. At the other end of the table, Jos had the lowest metering rate at 37.60 per cent, followed by Yola at 39.15 per cent, Kaduna at 42.32 per cent and Kano at 42.84 per cent. Enugu also remained below the national average, with a metering rate of 52.40 per cent, despite a marginal improvement from 52.13 per cent in July. The figures highlight the uneven progress in meter deployment across the country, with the gap between the best-performing and worst-performing DisCos exceeding 52 percentage points. Separately, NERC outlined several interventions designed to accelerate metering, including the Meter Asset Provider (MAP)

scheme, the National Mass Metering Programme (NMMP), the Meter Acquisition Fund (MAF) and the World Bank-backed Distribution Sector Recovery Programme (DISREP). Under the MAP scheme, private meter asset providers supply meters to customers who pay upfront, with the cost refunded through energy credits. The commission stated that

meters procured and installed under the MAF and DISREP schemes are provided to customers at no cost. The commission also highlighted the Presidential Metering Initiative (PMI), which is scheduled to begin in 2027 with the deployment of 750,000 meters as part of efforts to close the national metering gap. The initiative is expected to complement existing programmes,

although the latest figures indicate that millions of customers remain dependent on estimated billing. Beyond meter deployment, NERC restated consumers’ rights under applicable metering and customer-protection regulations. NERC said meters paid for upfront under the MAP scheme must be installed within 10 days of full payment. It also stated that

faulty meters must be repaired or replaced within 48 hours of being reported. Customers who pay for MAP meters are entitled to reimbursement in full through energy credits generated automatically each month and spread over 120 months, according to the commission. The credits cannot be offset against old debts, it stressed.

Lagos, AfDB Launch Project to Support 610 Women-led Businesses Initiative to provide training, mentoring, business advisory services Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja The Lagos State Government and the African Development Bank (AfDB) have launched a joint initiative to strengthen 610 women-led businesses in the state through training, mentoring, business advisory services and support to improve access to finance. The Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa (AFAWA) Women Entrepreneurship Project is being implemented through the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), with Somo Africa serving as the implementing partner. The project was formally launched at a signing ceremony held at Lagos House, Ikeja, yesterday.

Under the programme, the AfDB is providing a seed grant targeting 610 women-led micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Lagos State. Participating entrepreneurs will receive support to improve their business operations, strengthen financial management, adopt digital tools and prepare their enterprises to access appropriate financing. The initiative will also facilitate business connections and market linkages to enable beneficiaries to reach new customers, expand their operations and improve their competitiveness. Speaking at the launch, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said

the partnership was an important step towards addressing the barriers preventing women-owned businesses from realising their full potential. Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Sam Egube, noted that women played a significant role in the state’s economic activities but continued to face challenges in accessing finance, business development support and market opportunities. He said supporting women-led enterprises was not merely an investment in individual entrepreneurs but also a strategic investment in the wider Lagos economy, with the potential to strengthen livelihoods, increase productivity and create jobs.

The governor said the project’s success would be assessed based on measurable improvements in business management, market access, financial readiness, sustainability and employment generation among participating enterprises. He urged the implementing partners to maintain strong accountability and ensure that the support provided translated into tangible results for beneficiaries. Also speaking, the Director General and Acting Vice President of the AfDB, Abdul Kamara, said combining access to finance with business development support was essential to addressing the challenges confronting women entrepreneurs.

FG Approves N40.7bn for States Under Basic Healthcare Fund Expands coverage to 13,000 PHCs Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The federal government has approved N40.7 billion for disbursement to the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) under the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF). The government also said it was expanding the scheme to over 13,000 primary healthcare facilities

nationwide. Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, announced the development on Wednesday in Abuja at the 16th Ministerial Oversight Committee (MOC) meeting of the BHCPF. Pate said fiscal reforms introduced by the President Bola Tinubu administration had increased government

revenue, leading to almost doubling of monthly inflows into the BHCPF and allocations to states. He stated, “The monthly disbursements into the fund have almost doubled, as well as what the states are receiving, and we’re channelling those increased resources to support primary healthcare delivery in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory,” he said.

The minister disclosed that MOC approved the addition of 5,000 primary healthcare centres to the scheme, bringing the total number of benefiting facilities to more than 13,000. He said selection of the new facilities will be based on equity considerations, including population size, disease burden, and distance to healthcare services. According to Pate, the N40.7 billion represents the federal

government’s contribution from the Consolidated Revenue Fund. But he urged states and local governments to complement it with increased health spending. He said, “That’s not the limit. States should at least put that alongside the local government and even do more, because these are issues at the subnational level.” The minister said the committee also reviewed measures to improve access to quality and affordable

medical commodities and ensure funds translated to better health outcomes at the grassroots. On staffing, Pate said savings made through the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) would be used to recruit frontline health workers, with a plan to transfer responsibility for their employment to state governments within the next three years. He urged states to prepare for the transition.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026 • THISDAY

NEWS

APC PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN INAUGURATION...

L-R: Speaker House of the Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen; Senate President Godswill Akpabio; Wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima; Vice President Kashim Shettima; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; and First Lady of Nigeria Senator Oluremi Tinubu, at the Presidential Inauguration of the All Progressives Congress (APC), 2027 Presidential Campaign Council, held at the State House, Conference Centre, Abuja, yesterday PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI

2025 AFS: Alliance Raises Posers over NNPC’s N11.2tn Federation Receivables Demands breakdown of advances, security costs, petrol price support Research group seeks public ledger for dividends, taxes, others

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja The Alliance for Economic Research and Ethics (AERE) yesterday urged the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) to explain the N11.2 trillion owed to it by the federation, raising fresh concerns over the transparency of the company’s oil revenue accounting. In a policy analysis, the group said that the broad accounting classification made it difficult for

Nigerians to establish precisely how much was attributable to physical asset protection, petrol price support arrangements and other advances. The analysis came as NNPC reported a profit after tax of N7.183 trillion for 2025, up from N5.414 trillion in the preceding year, declaring a dividend of N5.8 trillion and recorded peak crude oil and condensate production of 1.77 million barrels per day. But while acknowledging the reported improvements, the Dele

Oye-led AERE argued that the figures should be accompanied by a clearer account of how revenue was generated, how obligations were settled and how much cash was actually remitted to the federation. AERE said despite attempts at transparency, the disclosures did not invalidate the reported profit but made it necessary to distinguish earnings generated by core operations from other income and accounting adjustments. “When a company’s profit grows

while core revenue and gross profit retreat, citizens deserve to know which cash-generating operations did the lifting, which accounting estimates moved, and which one-off items may not return,” the report stated. The group drew attention to note 24.2 of NNPC’s 2025 accounts, which said it recorded no energy-security expenses during the year, but showed an opening energy-security receivable of N8.672 trillion, carried forward from 2024.

Tenaris Expands Capacity with $10m Insulation Plant, Marks 25 Years in Nigeria Positions for future deepwater jobs Peter Uzoho Tenaris Global Services has marked 25 years of operation in Nigeria with the inauguration of its upgraded $10 million thermal insulation plant in Onne, Rivers State, and the successful completion of the coating campaign for the Bonga North deepwater project. The celebration held at the Onne Free Zone, brought together government officials, regulators, and industry operators for a three in one event commemorating 25 years of Tenaris in Nigeria, completion of the Bonga North pipe coating campaign, and inauguration of Pipe Coaters Nigeria Limited’s 5-Layer Thermal Insulation Plant. Over the past quarter century, Te-

naris has supported some of Nigeria’s most complex onshore, shallow water, and deepwater developments, continuously investing in local capabilities to meet evolving industry demands. For Bonga North, the company invested approximately $10 million in the complete refurbishment and upgrade of its coating line in Onne, bringing into operation the only 5 Layer Thermal Insulation Plant in Sub-Saharan Africa. THISDAY learnt that the investment brought advanced coating technologies closer to customers and further strengthened Nigeria’s industrial base. Speaking at the event, Managing Director of Tenaris in Nigeria, Rosario Osobase, said the milestones told a single story of commitment, capability,

and partnership. Osobase said, “These achievements, including the commissioning of the only 5 Layer Thermal Insulation Plant in Sub-Saharan Africa, reflect our long term commitment to supporting the growth of Nigeria’s energy industry through investment, innovation, and the development of local expertise.” She stated that the Bonga North project left a lasting legacy of technical capability and demonstrated the maturity of Nigeria’s industrial ecosystem. Osobase explained that the coating campaign required advanced technical capabilities and was delivered on an accelerated schedule. The campaign also demonstrated that high specification deepwater

scopes, including Three-Layer Polypropylene anti corrosion coating and Five-Layer Polypropylene thermal insulation coating, could be executed in-country to world class standards, retaining expenditure, fostering local expertise, and building a legacy of knowledge for future offshore projects. In his remarks, Commercial Vice President, Sub-Saharan Africa, Europe and Caspian Sea, Tenaris, Alessandro D’Angelo, said Nigeria was entering a new phase of growth and Tenaris was well positioned to support it.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has appointed Mr. Olatunbosun Ogunbanwo, Director of Public Affairs at the Lagos State Ministry of Health, as Permanent Secretary in the State Public Service, alongside five other senior officers. The five other senior officers appointed as Permanent Secretaries were Dr. Olawale Mahadiyu Adeg-

bite, Director of Medical Services, Health Service Commission; Mrs. Folashade Aina Thomas-Orogan and Mr. Adebayo Mubashiru Haroun, both Directors, State Counsel at the Ministry of Justice; Mrs. Olayinka Margret Oye-Bamgbose, Director of Administration and Human Resource at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH); and Mrs. Bilquees Toyin Adekoya, Principal/ Director of Education at Education

District VI. The appointments were conveyed by Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, in Circular Ref. No. CIR/ HOS/’26/071, dated October 13, 2026. The circular said the appointments, which took effect from October 13, 2026, were aimed at reinvigorating the state’s policy implementation apparatus and strengthening public service delivery.

rose from N566.540 billion to N1.277 trillion during the period, with NNPC indicating that the broader category included the maintenance and operation of wells, production facilities, pipelines and processing infrastructure, alongside integrity management, repairs and field support. The group said the figures left unanswered whether maintenance work had been postponed, reclassified into other cost centres or carried out more efficiently. It urged NNPC to publish an asset-integrity scorecard for major trunk pipelines, detailing planned and actual maintenance, incidents, downtime, integrity expenditure and independent inspection results. The analysis also called for greater transparency around NNPC’s N5.8 trillion dividend declaration, arguing that Nigerians needed to know how much had actually been paid in cash, how much had been offset against other obligations and how much remained outstanding. It said a clear reconciliation of declared dividends, cash payments, netted obligations and outstanding receivables would enable citizens to establish the extent to which the company’s reported earnings translated into actual receipts for the federation.

Blue Economy: Nigeria, Ghana Move to Strengthen Bilateral Cooperation on Fisheries Governance, Vessel Authorisation Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

Minister of Marine and Sanwo-Olu Appoints Ogunbanwo, Nigeria’s Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, visited Ghana, where he met with Ghana’s Minister for FisherFive Others as Permanent Secretaries yesterday ies and Aquaculture Development, Ayodeji Ake

The reconciliation, according to AERE, reduced total federation receivables from N17.512 trillion to N11.201 trillion. However, the group said the exercise did not resolve the underlying transparency concerns because the published accounts did not provide a sufficiently detailed breakdown of the remaining balance by purpose and beneficiary. It called for a public reconciliation separating physical security expenditure, supplier-of-last-resort obligations and petrol price underrecovery arrangements, as well as advances to the federation. Each category, it said, should disclose the legal authority for the claim, the beneficiary, supporting invoices, whether cash had changed hands or obligations had been offset, and the measurable results delivered. The analysis also questioned the presentation of pipeline maintenance expenditure in NNPC’s accounts, noting that the specific pipeline maintenance line fell sharply from N149.478 billion in 2024 to N13.813 billion in 2025, a decline of about 90.8 per cent. However, AERE cautioned against interpreting the reduction as proof that physical maintenance had collapsed. It noted that other direct costs

Emelia Arthur, in Accra to strengthen bilateral cooperation on fisheries governance, sustainable fisheries management and the fight against illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. The visit also provided an opportunity for Oyetola, who is President of the Fisheries Committee for the West Central Gulf of Guinea (FCWC), to engage with the FCWC Secretariat and the Regional Monitoring, Control

and Surveillance Centre in Tema, Ghana, as part of efforts to advance regional cooperation during Nigeria’s chairmanship of the committee. During the meeting with his Ghanaian counterpart, Oyetola emphasised the need for stronger coordination between Nigeria and Ghana in tackling IUU fishing, describing the menace as a shared concern with serious implications for food security, government revenue and the livelihoods of fishing communities. The minister, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser, Bolaji Akinola, noted that effective cooperation between the two countries would strengthen the broader regional re-

sponse to illegal fishing and contribute to the sustainable management of shared fisheries resources. He highlighted Nigeria’s pilot implementation of the Regional Record of Authorised Fishing Vessels as a practical platform for enhanced cooperation with Ghana, particularly in verifying vessel authorisations and exchanging relevant information through the FCWC framework. According to him, technical teams from both countries could work together to identify discrepancies in vessel authorisation records and establish agreed procedures for resolving them, thereby improving transparency, compliance and fisheries monitoring across the subregion.

THISDAY • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026

NEWS

INAUGURATION OF PIPE COATERS THERMAL INSULATION PLANT...

L-R: Senior Director, Commercial, Sub Saharan Africa, Tenaris, Juan Juanicotena; Managing Director, Tenaris Nigeria, Rosario Osobase; Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri; Director at Tenaris Nigeria/Pioneer Executive Secretary, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (MCDMB), Dr Ernest Nwapa; and Commercial Vice President, Sub Saharan Africa, Europe and Caspian Sea, Tenaris, Alessandro D’Angelo, at Tenaris In Nigeria 25th Anniversary Celebration and Commissioning of Pipe Coaters Thermal Insulation Plant held at Onne Free Zone, Rivers State...recently

In New Wheat Value Chain Initiative, FG Seeks Affordability, Competitiveness, Jobs John Enoh tackles supply gaps, high production costs, idle industrial capacity, stimulate economy Declares domestic mills operating at half capacity, puts annual consumption at 6 million tonnes James Emejo in Abuja Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh, yesterday launched a coordinated initiative to reduce production costs, improve industrial capacity utilisation, strengthen domestic wheat supply, and expand business opportunities across wheat-based foods industry. The move aimed to improve food affordability and stimulate economic activity. The programme, Project WHEATNESS, is designed to address structural constraints spanning agricultural production, industrial processing, distribution, and access to finance that have weakened the competitiveness of local businesses and increased pressure on consumers of bread, noodles, pasta, biscuits and other wheat-based staples. Speaking at the unveiling of the initiative in Abuja, Enoh said the country’s wheat mills were operating at half their production capacity, despite the country’s annual consumption of about six million metric tonnes of wheat. He said the gap between the country’s industrial processing capacity and the supply of locally grown wheat reaching factories at the required quality, volume and price represented a major constraint to the development of the sector. Enoh stated that the initiative sought to connect farmers, millers, food manufacturers, bakers, financiers,

and relevant government institutions within a common framework to tackle the bottlenecks, improve enterprise productivity, and strengthen the domestic value chain. The minister pointed out that government was pursuing an integrated approach because the pressures affecting the industry could not be resolved through isolated interventions targeting individual segments of the value chain. He identified global grain market pressures, energy costs, transportation expenses and the slow integration of domestic wheat production into industrial supply systems as constraints weighing on the industry.

Addressing Supply, Production and Financing Constraints Nigeria’s large wheat market presents opportunities for agricultural producers and food manufacturers, but inadequate domestic supply has limited the extent to which local production can meet industrial demand. Enoh said technical assessments indicated that the country had between two million and 3.5 million hectares with potential for irrigated wheat cultivation. He added that farm yields could be doubled through improved seed varieties, better planting schedules, crop nutrition, and water management. Expanding production, however, will require more than increasing

cultivated land and harvest volumes. Domestic wheat must also meet processors’ requirements for quality, price and reliable delivery if local sourcing is to become commercially viable on a larger scale. However, project WHEAT-NESS is expected to bring agricultural producers and industrial users into closer alignment, helping to identify the practical and commercial obstacles preventing more locally grown wheat from reaching mills. The government also hopes to improve the utilisation of existing processing facilities, which could allow companies to spread operating

The Director General of Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, has announced that Nigeria measurement standards are now recognised worldwide after the signing the Mutual Recognition Arrangement of the International Committee for Weights and Measures (CIPM MRA) in France. Okeke, signed the CIPM MRA on behalf of Nigeria at the 28th meeting of the General Conference on Weights and Measures (CGPM). According to him, the CIPM

MRA is the framework through which national metrology institutes prove that their measurement standards are equivalent and earn global recognition for their calibration and measurement certificates. He said: “Its main outputs, internationally recognised calibration and measurement capabilities, are published in the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) key comparison database.” Okeke said the arrangement would bring international recognition of Nigeria’s measurement capabilities, global acceptance of its calibration certificates and easier trade across borders.

Consumer Affordability Remains the Ultimate Test Meanwhile, the economic case for the initiative rests on whether improved production and processing efficiency can help ease the cost pres-

sures ultimately borne by households. The minister stressed that industrial competitiveness and consumer affordability should not be treated as competing objectives, maintaining that more efficient businesses could become stronger market participants while helping to reduce the burden of production costs on consumers. He stressed that the programme must move beyond the launch stage and demonstrate tangible results over time. Enoh called for measurable targets, clear responsibilities, and transparent reporting to ensure that implementation could be assessed against its stated

objectives. The programme will focus on five interconnected areas: upstream supply, industrial processing, downstream enterprise, consumer markets, and the financing and policy environment supporting the value chain. According to the minister, the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment is expected to concentrate on industrial cost structures, enterprise capabilities, market efficiency, and investment conditions, working with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security on domestic production and with private-sector operators on implementation.

LCCI: Nigeria’s Cocoa Export at Risk as EU’s Deforestation Rule Deadline Draws Near Dike Onwuamaeze

Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has expressed concern that more than half of Nigeria’s cocoa beans exports to the European Union (EU) may not meet traceability requirements under the “EU Deforestation Rules” (EUDR), which would become effective from the end of December 2026. LCCI also called on the federal and state governments to fund rapid geolocation mapping of cocoa farms

SON: Nigeria’s Measurement Standards Gain Worldwide Recognition, Signs CIPM Agreement in France Dike Onwuamaeze

costs across higher production volumes and strengthen their competitiveness. Enoh emphasised the need to design financial products that reflected the different operating requirements of participants, including seasonal funding for farmers, appropriate financing for processors, and accessible credit for smaller businesses.

He noted the worldwide recognition would cut Nigeria’s dependence on foreign metrology services, strengthen SON’s technical authority, and open doors to international scientific collaboration and capacity building. Okeke assured that as a full member state of the BIPM, Nigeria has joined Egypt, Kenya, Morocco, South Africa and Tunisia as Africa’s only full members. The milestone builds on the accreditation of three National Metrology Institute laboratories, covering mass, temperature and pressure, to ISO/IEC 17025:2017 through the Egyptian Accreditation Council.

and a national traceability platform before the December deadline would put a large share of Nigeria’s key non-oil export products at risk within three months. The concern was raised yesterday by President of LCCI, Mr. Leye Kupoluyi, during the chamber’s “State of The Economy” quarterly press conference. Kupoluyi emphasised that cocoa earned N596.9 billion in Q1 2026, which is about 51 per cent of Nigeria’s agricultural export earnings. He said, “The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) applies from the end of December 2026. “Industry estimates suggest that more than half of Nigeria’s cocoa

beans may not meet its traceability requirements. Cocoa earned N596.9 billion in Q1 2026, about 51 per cent of agricultural export earnings. A large share of a key export is at risk within three months.” Kupoluyi called “on the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) and state governments to fund rapid geolocation mapping of cocoa farms and a national traceability platform before the December deadline”. He stated, “We also call for all major export-policy announcements to be issued by a single authoritative voice, with clear timelines, so that markets are not unsettled by remarks

later withdrawn.” The LCCI president also urged the government and monetary authorities to implement measures that would reduce the cost of credit to Nigeria’s productive sectors following the central bank’s monetary policy rate reset from 26.5 per cent to 23 per cent. He stated, “However, the reduction in the MPR should not be interpreted as an automatic reduction in the cost or availability of credit to businesses. “The transmission from the policy rate to lending rates and actual credit allocation remains critical. Now we have a lower MPR, but the lending environment remains challenging.”

TETFund Enlists DICON Institute as Beneﬁciary, Annual Allocation from 2027 Kuni Tyessi in Abuja The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has enlisted the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Institute of Technology as a beneficiary institution, with annual allocations to commence in 2027. Executive Secretary of TETFund, Sonny Echono, disclosed this on Monday during a visit by the Director-General of DICON,

Maj-Gen. Babatunde Alaya, and his delegation to the Fund’s headquarters in Abuja. Echono said the approval was granted by TETFund’s Board of Trustees at its meeting held last week. “Effectively, they are now members of the TETFund family, and from 2027, they will begin to receive annual allocations from TETFund,” Echono said.

He said DICON will be eligible for various intervention lines including infrastructure, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), staff development, research and innovation. He advised the Institute to appoint qualified desk officers with relevant expertise to coordinate applications, prepare proposals, monitor projects and ensure compliance with the Fund’s guidelines.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026 • THISDAY

EIGHT

Coca-Cola’s Nigerian Operations Support 160,000 Jobs, Inject $1bn into Economy Sourced $601m worth of goods and services from Nigerian suppliers Dike Onwuamaeze Following Coca-Cola’s 75th anniversary celebration in Nigeria, an independent study by Steward Redqueen, a global consulting firm, has revealed that the Coca-Cola system contributed $1 billion in value-added economic activity in the country and supported more than 160,000 jobs in 2024. The study measured the direct, indirect and induced economic impact of the Coca-Cola system in Nigeria, combining company operational data with third-party

economic sources. The findings highlighted the ripple effects of the company’s local operations across the economy, from agricultural producers supplying raw materials to retailers selling beverages, generating jobs, supporting incomes and creating business opportunities. The Coca-Cola system in Nigeria comprises The Coca-Cola Company, its authorised bottler, Nigerian Bottling Company, and a broad network of local suppliers, distributors and retailers. According to the study, the

system supported more than 160,000 jobs, including nearly 3,000 direct jobs and an additional 157,200 jobs sustained through suppliers, business partners and customers. This means that for every direct job created by the system, an additional 53 jobs were supported across Nigeria’s economy. The study also highlighted the company’s extensive local supply chain, revealing that the Coca-Cola system sourced $601 million worth of goods and services from Nigerian suppliers in 2024. The local procurement supports

several industries, including sugar production, packaging, transportation and marketing, reinforcing the company’s role in the country’s economic development. Beyond its economic contribution, the study said the Coca-Cola system had strengthened its presence in Nigeria through sustained investment and innovation, including the opening of a new packaging collection hub in Apapa, Lagos State, as part of its sustainability agenda. The facility, described as an important component of Nigeria’s

plastic recycling infrastructure, can process up to 13,000 metric tonnes of plastic bottles annually. The initiative aims to reduce plastic waste through the collection, sorting and recycling of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastics, while creating jobs and supporting local communities. The study further highlighted the Coca-Cola system’s contributions to water sustainability through the Africa Water Stewardship Initiative, a nearly $25 million investment running through 2030 to address critical water-related challenges in

Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole local communities across 20 African markets, including Nigeria.

Dangote Vows to Prioritise People with N50,000 and Below in Reﬁnery IPO Says offer, an opportunity for Nigerians to own stake in landmark industrial enterprise Peter Uzoho President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring broadbased participation in the Dangote Refinery Initial Public Offering (IPO), announcing that investors applying with N50,000 and below will receive priority consideration as the company seeks to democratise ownership of one of Africa’s most significant industrial assets. Dangote made the declaration during the final leg of the nationwide

IPO roadshow held in Port Harcourt, where investors, financial market experts, business leaders, and other stakeholders gathered to discuss the investment opportunity and its implications for Nigeria’s economic transformation. Dangote emphasised that the IPO should be viewed not merely as an investment opportunity, but as a chance for Nigerians to become shareholders in a landmark enterprise that is reshaping the country’s industrial landscape. “We will prioritise people with N50,000 and below,” Dangote stated,

underscoring the group’s determination to make the offering accessible to small and medium-scale investors across the country. He stated that while international and African investors had already committed substantial capital to the refinery, the IPO now offered Nigerians a rare opportunity to participate directly in the ownership of a world-class industrial project built on Nigerian soil. According to him, investing in the refinery goes beyond financial returns, it represents a vote of confidence in Nigeria’s future, institutional develop-

ment, corporate governance standards, and industrial capacity. A statement by the group quoted Dangote as saying, “African investors have invested in this refinery. Now it is time for Nigerians to invest in themselves and participate in a project that is creating value, jobs and opportunities for generations to come.” Dangote also encouraged prospective shareholders to adopt a long-term investment perspective, stating that participation in the IPO presents a pathway to wealth creation, portfolio diversification, and increased public

TINUBU: I’M READY TO RENEW PACT WITH NIGERIANS, INAUGURATES 2027 CAMPAIGN COUNCIL ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council for the 2027 poll, he said while the council would lead the party’s mobilisation across the states and local government areas, he would make time to address Nigerians directly without accompanying the campaign to every location. Tinubu said he agreed with party leaders, especially Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, who advised him not to allow campaign activities to distract him from official duties. Vice President Kashim Shettima, speaking at the occasion, threw jabs at former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi. Shettima questioned both candidates’ economic interventions and their readiness to lead Nigeria. He said the country’s size, population, and economic realities made it unsuitable for policies copied from other countries without proper adaptation to local realities. In his acceptance speech, Director-General of APC Presidential Campaign Council (APC-PCC), Senator Abdulaziz Yari, said Tinubu’s achievements since May 2023 and his future plans would form the basis of the party’s campaign for the January 16, 2027 presidential poll. Yari said the campaign would focus on communicating the administration’s record to Nigerians, particularly its impact on ordinary citizens, and its infrastructure projects. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, who is also a member of the APC campaign council, told coordinators of Tinubu’s 2027 re-election campaign

not to claim victory if they failed to deliver their respective states. Wike, though a member of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), said every campaign official must be held accountable for their electoral performance. Relatedly, the Senate, yesterday, declared that the rainbow coalition incorporated into the APC-PCC for Tinubu’s re-election in 2027 was on course, describing the initiative as an unprecedented political alliance aimed at promoting national unity and inclusive governance. President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, and Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, made the remarks yesterday at plenary. However, Atiku, yesterday, condemned the inauguration of Tinubu’s campaign council inside the Presidential Villa, Abuja, describing it as an abuse of public office and a troubling breach of public trust. He said this in a statement by Director of Strategic Communication of African Democratic Congress Presidential Campaign Council (ADC-PCC), Phrank Shaibu. Nonetheless, Tinubu, at the inauguration of the APC-PCC in Abuja, said, “As I stand before you with a heart full of gratitude and spirit full of resolve, it is my honour to inaugurate the presidential campaign council of the All Progressives Congress for the 2027 General Election. “I thank all of you for the last election, but no one gets credit for an incomplete assignment until you deliver the next election, until you deliver your electoral wards, until you deliver the votes.” Tinubu acknowledged Uzodinma’s advice not to let the rigours of the

election campaign distract him from his responsibilities of governance, said, “I hear you. I am in full agreement with your decision. Nigeria needs more attention now than ever before. The responsibility of this office does not pause.” Uzodimma, in his speech, had assured the president that the governors and other party leaders would do their best to deliver the right message to Nigerians during the campaign. On why he would not travel to every campaign ground, the president said the government had pressing

financial obligations and needed to attract investors to support the country’s future. According to him, “The job must go on. We have bills to pay. The American creditors cannot wait. We want those investors to come in, be here to stay, to invest for the future of our children. “However, I will still make time to speak directly with Nigerians even as you lead the campaign in the states and local government areas.” He charged the campaign council Continued on page 34

engagement with the capital market. He added that wider participation in the stock market would deepen financial literacy, promote a savings and investment culture, and enable more Nigerians to better understand how businesses create value and contribute to economic growth. The roadshow also featured insightful presentations from leading economists and market analysts on the refinery’s economic significance and the broader opportunities associated with the public offering. Renowned economist and Chief Executive Officer of Financial Derivatives Advisory, Bismarck Rewane, highlighted the enormous economic potential of the South-south region and stressed the need to convert the area’s resource endowment into sustainable prosperity, infrastructure development, and improved living standards. Rewane stated that the IPO presented an opportunity to deepen Nigeria’s capital market by encouraging citizens to participate actively in wealth creation. Similarly, Chief Executive Officer of Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), Dr. Muda Yusuf, outlined the refinery’s far-reaching impact on economic diversification, do-

mestic value addition, energy security, capital formation, and employment generation. According to Yusuf, the refinery represents far more than a petroleumprocessing facility, as it serves as a catalyst for growth across multiple sectors, including petrochemicals, packaging, manufacturing, logistics, and other downstream industries. He emphasised that policy consistency, regulatory stability, and sustained stakeholder engagement were critical to maintaining investor confidence and attracting long-term capital into Nigeria’s industrial sector. Speaking on the investment outlook, stakeholders urged prospective investors to consider the company’s operational performance, valuation metrics, and long-term fundamentals when evaluating the offer. Yusuf also described the refinery as a major example of domestic value addition, stating that its extensive local content and industrial linkages would significantly amplify its contribution to the Nigerian economy. Discussions at the event highlighted the importance of sound monetary policy, affordable financing, and a predictable business environment in supporting investment-led growth and industrial expansion.

AFC APPOINTS CBN GOVERNOR, YEMI CARDOSO BOARD CHAIRMAN the appointment of the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso as Chairman of its Board of Directors. He succeeds the immediate-past Chair, Ireti Samuel-Ogbu, who served the Corporation meritoriously during her tenure and continues to serve as a board member. The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele and Cardoso, yesterday wooed investors with commitments to sustain economic reforms, improve the investment climate and attract long-term capital as the federal government seeks to mobilise $78.5 billion for 65 projects across key sectors of the economy. Also yesterday, the Dangote Group endorsed the federal government’s reforms, with its Group Chief Economist, Hassan Mammud, saying fiscal and monetary policy changes had helped stabilise investments in the Dangote Refinery and other subsidiaries. He urged

international investors to invest in Nigeria, describing the country as an emerging model for other African economies. At an investors’ forum in Bangkok, Thailand, held on the sidelines of the ongoing International Monetary Fund and World Bank Group Annual Meetings, the federal government’s officials outlined the government’s priorities, including reducing inflation to single digits, addressing power sector constraints, improving regulatory efficiency and providing clearer fiscal data to support investment decisions. A new feature introduced this year was a deal room that designed to connect investors with key policymakers, guide them through available investment opportunities and answer questions about investing in Nigeria. The initiative is intended to give investors direct access to relevant government officials and help convert interest in the country’s

investment pipeline into actual commitments. The pipeline comprises 65 projects requiring a total of $78.5 billion, with energy and transport accounting for almost four-fifths of the funding requirement. According to the project breakdown presented at the forum, oil, gas and power account for 25 projects requiring $36.4 billion, while transport and maritime account for eight projects valued at $25 billion. Agriculture and agro-processing account for six projects requiring $9.8 billion, while industry, manufacturing and mining comprise 17 projects requiring $6.6 billion. Technology, health and urban services account for the remaining nine projects, with a combined capital requirement of $700 million. The government presented investment opportunities across different funding categories, from projects requiring less than $100 million to those needing $1 billion or more.

The pipeline ranges from $1 million to $15 billion per project, with a median capital requirement of $153 million. Of the 65 projects, 48 require less than $500 million, while 17, valued at a combined $72.3 billion, require at least $1 billion each. The government is also seeking to strengthen investor participation by highlighting the protections available to foreign investors. These include permission for 100 per cent foreign ownership in most sectors, full repatriation of capital and profits with a Certificate of Capital Importation, double taxation and bilateral investment treaties, and Nigeria’s membership of the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID). The investment framework also includes a five per cent annual tax credit on qualifying capital expenditure for five years under Continued on page 35

THISDAY • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026

NEWS

COURTESY CALL AND DECORATION OF GOVERNOR SANWO-OLU...

Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu (third right) being decorated as Fellow of Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria, CIPM by the President/Chairman of the Governing Council, Mallam Ahmed Ladan Gobir (third left). With them (from left): Ag. Registrar/Chief Executive, Mr Gbenga Odetunde; Immediate past President/Chairman Board of Fellows, Mr. Olusegun Mojeed; Vice President, CIPMN, Mrs. Chidinma Obiejesi; and National Treasurer, Mr. Adeyemi Ajayi, during a courtesy call and decoration of the Governor at the Lagos House, Marina, on Tuesday

Senate Wants Nationwide Probe of Flood, Erosion Disasters, Demands Emergency Relief Directs NEMA to provide food, shelter, medical supplies to victims Seeks reconstruction of washed-away roads, compensation for farmers Sunday Aborisade in Abuja Senate on Wednesday ordered a nationwide assessment of communities devastated by flooding and erosion, directing relevant federal agencies to provide emergency relief to displaced residents, rebuild damaged roads, and assess destroyed farmlands and livestock for possible compensation. The lawmakers also called for urgent federal intervention in erosion-prone communities in Anambra, Ebonyi, and Imo states, warning that recurring environmental disasters have claimed lives, destroyed homes and livelihoods, and cut off

communities from essential services. As part of measures to address the worsening ecological crisis, Senate mandated its Committees on Environment, Works, Ecology and Climate Change, in collaboration with other relevant committees, to conduct on-the-spot assessments of affected communities nationwide and submit their findings and recommendations within one month. The resolutions followed three related motions presented during plenary by senators representing constituencies affected by flooding and erosion, who detailed the devastating consequences of the disasters on

residents, businesses, agriculture, and critical infrastructure. Senate specifically urged the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to immediately provide food, potable water, temporary shelter, medical supplies and other essential relief materials to displaced persons and other victims of the disasters. It also directed the Federal Ministry of Works and relevant agencies to assess and reconstruct damaged roads, restore access to communities cut off by flooding and erosion, and provide adequate drainage infrastructure to prevent further destruction.

The lawmakers called on the Federal Ministry of Environment to conduct comprehensive technical assessments of affected sites and implement sustainable flood and erosion control measures, including the construction, rehabilitation and expansion of drainage and storm water management systems. They urged the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to assess the destruction of farmlands, crops and livestock in affected communities in Ebonyi State and provide emergency grants to farmers who had suffered losses. Senate stressed the need for a

PenCom Recovers N36.6bn from Defaulting Employers, Intensifies Crackdown James Emejo in Abuja The Director General, National Pension Commission (PenCom), Ms. Omolola Oloworaran, yesterday said the commission has intensified its crackdown on employers failing to remit workers’ pension contributions, recovering a record N36.6 billion as of July 2026. Speaking at the 2026 media conference in Abuja, she warned that employers who deduct pension contributions from employees’ salaries without transferring the funds to their Retirement Savings Accounts (RSAs) would be held accountable. She said, “To every employer, let me be equally clear. A deduction on a pay slip that does not reach a Retirement Savings Account is a breach of trust and a breach of the law. “Last year, recoveries from defaulting employers broke every record in the history of the Scheme. This year, we have already surpassed that record. Cumulative recoveries stood at N36.6 billion as at July 2026. “We will find what is owed, we will recover it, and we will hold those responsible to account.”

She said recoveries from defaulting employers had broken the previous record last year, adding that the commission had already surpassed that performance in the current year. She urged employers to comply with remittance requirements and called on state governments and private-sector employers to widen pension coverage and fulfil their obligations to workers. PenCom’s enforcement efforts come as pension assets expand, rising from N20.79 trillion in July 2024 to N31.48 trillion in June 2026, an increase of over N10.7 trillion in less than two years. The commission also reported that 938,229 Nigerians joined the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) within the period, reflecting the continued growth of the formal retirement savings pool. However, the challenge of ensuring that contributions are remitted promptly remains important to the credibility of the system, particularly as PenCom seeks to extend pension coverage to workers outside conventional employment. The commission is deploying accredited pension agents to take its Personal Pension Plan

to markets, motor parks, farms and workshops, targeting traders, artisans, farmers and transport workers who may not have access to employer-sponsored retirement arrangements. Oloworaran said the initiative was intended to widen pension coverage while creating employment opportunities through the agent network. However, she stated that the commission was seeking to expand the economic role of pension assets through a

proposed $250 million Pension Industry Infrastructure Investment Consortium. Under the plan endorsed by the Pension Industry Leadership Council on September 24, pension fund operators would contribute $200 million as anchor investors through cash calls over 10 years, while the commission seeks an additional $50 million from development finance institutions. Discussions with the development finance institutions are ongoing, she added.

coordinated, long-term rehabilitation and ecological restoration programme, backed by appropriate federal funding, to address the recurring disasters and prevent further loss of lives and property. The resolutions were expanded to cover affected communities across the country, rather than restricting federal intervention to the South-east, following concerns raised by the lawmakers about the widespread nature of flooding and erosion disasters. Leading the motion on the devastation caused by flooding and erosion in Anambra State, Senator Victor Umeh drew attention to the loss of lives, destruction of property, and disruption of economic and social activities in several communities. Umeh said at least four persons, including a pregnant woman and a six-year-old pupil of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Primary School, Awka, had died in the disasters, while several families had been displaced and numerous homes submerged. He identified Ogidi, Obosi, and Awka among the affected communities, stating that the destruction has extended to farmlands, economic trees, cash crops, streets and other critical infrastructure. The senator expressed particular concern over the formation of deep and expanding erosion gullies, including one reportedly measuring more than 60 metres in depth.

He warned that the destruction of roads and other infrastructure had disrupted access to schools and important locations, while worsening insecurity, as residents abandoned their homes and ancestral lands in search of safer places to live. Umeh urged the federal government, through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and the Ecological Fund Office, to recognise the affected communities as requiring urgent national intervention. He also called on the Federal Ministry of Works to urgently assess and reconstruct damaged roads, particularly the Onitsha-Ogidi-Awka federal road, where flooding had disrupted vehicular movement and other economic activities. Seconding the motion, Senator Anthony Ani, who represents Ebonyi South, highlighted the devastating flash floods that ravaged communities across his senatorial district in late September 2026. Ani said torrential rainfall had caused rivers to overflow their banks, submerging residential, commercial and agricultural areas across affected local government areas. According to him, many residents have lost their homes and household valuables, while extensive agricultural lands, crops and livestock are destroyed, further worsening the economic difficulties confronting affected households.

Abiodun Moves to Upgrade Cooperative College, Cites Over N1bn in Small Business Loans

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has announced plans to upgrade the Ogun State Cooperative College to award National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) qualifications, while disclosing his administration has disbursed more than N1 billion in loans to cooperatives, artisans, traders and small business owners. Abiodun said the initiative was aimed at strengthening cooperative

institutions, developing professional manpower and expanding access to finance for grassroots enterprises. The governor made this known on Wednesday at the 2026 International Day of Cooperatives celebration, organised by the Ogun State Cooperative Federation Limited in collaboration with the Ministry of Community Development and Cooperatives in Ijebu-Ode. He said preparations were underway to improve the college’s

infrastructure and academic capacity, positioning it to provide professional training in cooperative management. “Preparations are advancing for infrastructure improvement at the Ogun State Cooperative College to position it to award National Diploma and Higher National Diploma qualifications,” the governor said. “Our objective is to prepare skilled professionals who can manage institutions, assess risks

and protect members.” Abiodun disclosed that more than N500 million had been disbursed to cooperative societies through the Ogun State Cooperative Federation under the government’s revolving loan scheme, while another N500 million had been provided through the Oko ‘Owo’ Irinse Dapo Soft Loan Initiative to support artisans, traders and small business owners across the state’s 20 local government areas.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, t T H I S D AY

+RQ (ELXZRX .RNX 2EL\DL +RQRXUDEOH &RPPLVVLRQHU 0LQLVWU\ RI ,QIRUPDWLRQ 2ULHQWDWLRQ 6WUDWHJ\

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, t T H I S D AY

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY OCTOBER 15, 2026

POLITICS

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

Shoga: Tinubu’s Revenue Reforms Creating Greater Fiscal Breathing Space Director-General of City Boy Movement, Hon. Oluwatosin Shoga, in this interview, defends President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, saying his government is correcting several years of structural distortions and laying a solid foundation for Nigeria’s emergence as a $1 trillion economy. He also speaks about Nigeria’s growing foreign reserves, proposed Gateway Deep Seaport and increased revenues to state and local governments. Folalumi Alaran brings excerpts.

tates and local governments are now receiving higher allocations. What should Nigerians expect from them? This is an important aspect of President Bola Tinubu’s reforms that deserves greater attention. By July 2026, monthly federation revenues available for distribution had risen to around N3 trillion. That means more resources are available to states and local governments for infrastructure and public services. Governors and council chairmen must therefore take responsibility for delivering visible improvements in schools, healthcare, rural roads, water supply and agricultural development. It would be unfair to attribute every difficulty in local communities exclusively to the President when subnational governments now have greater resources and constitutional responsibilities. President Tinubu is creating additional fiscal opportunities. States and local governments must demonstrate what they are doing with them. Citizens deserve accountability at every level. How can the administration ensure that development reaches every geopolitical zone? President Tinubu’s vision must be understood as a national development agenda. Every zone possesses economic advantages. The North-Central has agriculture, minerals and logistics; the North-East has livestock, agriculture and cross-border commerce; while the North-West has textiles, leather and food processing. The South-East possesses formidable entrepreneurial and manufacturing capacity. The South-South offers petroleum, gas, petrochemicals and maritime industries, while the South-West remains strong in finance, manufacturing, technology and aviation. The administration’s challenge is connecting these strengths through transportation, electricity, industrial infrastructure and digital development. A genuinely prosperous Nigeria cannot leave any geopolitical zone behind. You are enthusiastic about President Tinubu’s economic achievements, yet millions of Nigerians are struggling. How do you reconcile this? We must be fair to President Tinubu and honest about the condition of the economy he inherited. Nobody disputes that Nigerians have experienced hardship. Fuel prices increased, transportation became more expensive, food prices rose and household purchasing power suffered. But the fundamental question is whether Nigeria could have continued indefinitely with the economic arrangements that created those problems. President Tinubu inherited an economy burdened by unsustainable fuel subsidies, distorted foreign-exchange arrangements, weak government revenues, enormous debt-servicing obligations and infrastructure deficiencies. These were not problems created overnight, and they could not be solved through political convenience. What distinguishes President Tinubu is his willingness to confront challenges that had been postponed for years. Leadership sometimes demands taking difficult decisions today to prevent a much bigger crisis tomorrow. The encouraging development is that the reforms are beginning to produce measurable results. Our responsibility now is to ensure those gains translate into jobs, affordable transportation, stronger businesses and improved living conditions. What concrete evidence supports your claim that the economy is recovering? The figures are increasingly speaking for themselves. Nigeria’s real Gross Domestic

Shoga

Product grew by 4.43 per cent in the second quarter of 2026, compared with 4.23 per cent in the corresponding period of 2025. That represents progress in an economy undergoing substantial structural adjustment. We are seeing improvements in revenue mobilisation, foreign reserves, domestic refining and investment opportunities. Critics should acknowledge that these developments are occurring because the administration chose reform over the temporary comfort of maintaining an unsustainable system. Of course, GDP growth alone is insufficient. But you cannot create sustainable prosperity without first building a productive and stable economy. President Tinubu is laying that foundation, and the next task is translating growth into employment, industrial expansion and stronger purchasing power. Why does the Dangote Reﬁnery feature so prominently in your assessment? Because it illustrates the industrial transformation Nigeria desperately needs. For decades, we produced crude oil, exported it and spent enormous foreign exchange importing refined petroleum products. That was an economic contradiction which deprived Nigeria of industrial opportunities and employment. Today, the Dangote Petroleum Refinery is changing that narrative.

Seaborne petroleum-product shipments from Nigeria averaged approximately 561,000 barrels daily in the second quarter of 2026, with about 350,000 barrels going into exports. Consider what that means for a country previously heavily dependent on imported petroleum products. Beyond refining, the opportunities extend to shipping, storage, engineering, petrochemicals, transportation, logistics and thousands of associated businesses. President Tinubu’s vision of economic diversification is about creating an environment where Nigeria increasingly processes what it produces and exports finished products rather than raw materials. That is how serious economies develop. But Dangote Reﬁnery is a private investment. Why should the administration receive credit? Nobody is suggesting that government built or financed the refinery. Credit belongs to the entrepreneur who conceived and invested in it. However, no major industrial enterprise operates outside the policy environment created by government. Crude supply arrangements, foreignexchange policy, the naira-for-crude framework, regulatory decisions and infrastructure support all matter. President Tinubu understands that government does not have to own every factory to drive industrialisation. Its responsibility is to create conditions that encourage investors to commit capital, expand production and generate employment. That partnership between government and private enterprise is precisely what Nigeria requires. You have also highlighted the proposed

The encouraging development is that the reforms are beginning to produce measurable results. Our responsibility now is to ensure those gains translate into jobs, aﬀordable transportation, stronger businesses and improved living conditions.

Gateway Deep Seaport in Ogun State. Why is it particularly important? Because it demonstrates the enormous investment opportunities that can emerge when government policies encourage productive partnerships. In September, Ogun State signed agreements with DP World for the proposed Gateway Deep Seaport and Blue Marine Special Economic Zone. The envisaged investment exceeds $7 billion, including a 10,000-hectare economic zone designed to accommodate manufacturing, logistics and export-oriented industries. The proposed port is expected to have approximately four kilometres of berth and an 18-metre draft, with projections of more than 50,000 direct jobs at full development. These are substantial economic opportunities. What President Tinubu’s administration is encouraging is a development model in which federal and state governments cooperate with credible international investors to expand Nigeria’s productive capacity. Of course, agreements must translate into construction and completed infrastructure. That is the next important responsibility. There is also a separate Dangote-backed proposal around Olokola. How do the projects relate? Publicly available information indicates that Dangote Industries is pursuing a proposed deep seaport and industrial development covering more than 10,000 hectares within the Olokola Free Trade Zone corridor. There is also the Gateway project involving Ogun State and DP World. Whether these eventually become separate facilities or components of an integrated maritime development remains to be established. But look at the bigger picture. Ogun is already one of Nigeria’s strongest manufacturing centres. Providing modern maritime infrastructure along that coastline could fundamentally strengthen its industrial competitiveness. That is the kind of investment-led transformation President Tinubu wants across Nigeria. How would a modern deep seaport beneﬁt the national economy? A seaport is not merely a place where vessels discharge cargo. It is an engine of economic development. Major ports attract industries, warehouses, logistics companies, financial institutions, shipping businesses and commercial activities. Ogun already hosts significant investments in cement, pharmaceuticals, steel, food processing, packaging and consumer products. Many of those manufacturers currently depend on Lagos ports. Modern maritime facilities in Ogun could reduce logistics costs, improve access to production inputs, expand exports and relieve pressure on Apapa and Tin Can ports. The important point is that President Tinubu’s economic agenda recognises infrastructure as a catalyst for production, competitiveness and employment. Nigeria cannot become an industrial powerhouse while manufacturers struggle with avoidable logistics bottlenecks. How does the proposed maritime corridor connect with the administration’s $1 trillion economy ambition? President Tinubu’s $1 trillion economy ambition is not merely a political slogan. It represents a vision of a more productive, diversified and competitive Nigeria. But such an economy cannot emerge without reliable infrastructure. We need modern ports, railways, roads, electricity, industrial estates and efficient financial systems. NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

THISDAY • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026

POLITY

2027 POLLS: Why Enugu’s Security Gains Must Not Be Undermined by Political Rivalry By Malachy Agbo

rom technology-driven surveillance and rapid-response operations to forest security and intelligence-led policing, the governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah-led administration has made security one of the central pillars of its development agenda. As the 2027 elections approach, the challenge is to protect these gains, establish the facts behind emerging controversies, and ensure that political competition does not come at the expense of public safety. The former Governor of Ogun State, Chief Aremu Olusegun Osoba, offered an illuminating account of the security situation in Enugu State when he addressed participants at the recently concluded Nigeria Guild of Editors Conference in Enugu. He recounted how he had assured his wife that those responsible for abducting a Catholic seminarian and other worshippers at a church in Affa, Udi Local Government Area, would be apprehended. According to his account, he was subsequently pleased to learn that the suspects had been arrested. The significance of that account goes beyond the apprehension of suspects. It highlights the importance of a security system capable of gathering intelligence, mobilising personnel, pursuing criminal networks and bringing suspected perpetrators before the law. It also underscores a fundamental responsibility of government: to ensure that criminal elements cannot operate with impunity or dictate the terms on which citizens live, worship, work and conduct their businesses. The Affa incident was undoubtedly distressing. On August 2, 2026, gunmen abducted three people, including a seminarian, during a church service at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Inoyi, Affa community. Subsequent reports by the police and other media organisations documented arrests linked to the incident, the recovery of firearms and the eventual release of the remaining victims. These developments demonstrate the importance of coordinated security operations, although the initial attack also serves as a reminder that the threat of kidnapping has not been completely eliminated. For Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, the incident reinforces a principle that has defined his administration since its inception: security is not an optional component of governance – it is the foundation upon which economic growth, infrastructure development, education, healthcare, tourism and public confidence must rest. When Mbah assumed office in May 2023, the South-East was grappling with the disruptive effects of the Monday sit-at-home order imposed by non-state actors. Enugu, as a major commercial and administrative centre in the region, experienced the economic and social consequences of restrictions that discouraged traders from opening their shops, workers from reporting to their workplaces, children from going to school and residents from moving freely. Beyond the direct economic losses, the climate of fear affected transport operators, small-business owners, students, civil servants and families whose daily routines depended on the freedom to move around without intimidation. The sit-at-home phenomenon also imposed less visible costs. Business owners faced uncertainty, workers lost productive hours, and investors had to consider whether their operations could function reliably in an environment where movement might be disrupted at very short notice. The most ignoble aspect of it is that most of the disruptive orders came from faceless voice notes. The Mbah administration moved to end the compulsory Monday sit-at-home and other similar orders in Enugu State and restore normal economic activity. The policy direction was clear: no individual or group outside the constitutional order should possess the power to determine whether lawful businesses open or whether citizens can go about their legitimate activities. This was not merely a question of reopening shops on Mondays. It was a question of restoring public authority, protecting livelihoods and defending the right of citizens to participate in economic and social life without coercion. The administration also pursued measures aimed at removing unauthorised barricades and improving movement across the state, alongside efforts to strengthen security coordination and reduce the disruptions associated with excessive or poorly coordinated checkpoints. These measures must ultimately be assessed by their practical effects: whether commuters can travel safely, traders can operate consistently, workers can reach their destinations and families can go about their

Enugu State Command and Control Centre

Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State

daily lives without undue fear. The objective should remain clear and measurable: public spaces must belong to the people, not to criminal groups or individuals seeking to impose their will through violence. One of the most significant aspects of the Mbah administration’s security strategy is its emphasis on technology, surveillance, rapid response and inter-agency coordination. Rather than relying exclusively on conventional patrols and reactive policing, the government has invested in infrastructure intended to improve the detection of threats, shorten response times and strengthen the capacity of security agencies to coordinate their operations. At the centre of this approach is the Enugu State Command and Control Centre, formally inaugurated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on January 4, 2025. The facility integrates surveillance and communication capabilities to support security operations across the state. In July 2026, the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, commended the centre and the accompanying Distress Response Squad after visiting the facility. The squad operated more than 150 brand new security vehicles equipped with artificial intelligence-enabled cameras and linked to the Command Centre. The Inspector-General also praised the squad’s ability to respond rapidly when directed to an incident location. In security operations, minutes can make a decisive difference. A timely response may prevent an assault from escalating, facilitate the rescue of an abducted person or enable officers to intercept suspects before they escape. The administration has also invested in equipment intended to improve personnel protection and operational mobility. In December 2025, the Enugu State Security Trust Fund inaugurated two drones, 10 four-wheel-drive Hilux vehicles, 40 motorcycles, 400 bulletproof vests and 400 bulletproof helmets for security operations. These items were procured to complement existing surveillance infrastructure and the DRS fleet. These investments demonstrate the breadth of the government’s stated approach: surveillance, mobility, equipment and inter-agency cooperation are being

treated as complementary parts of a security system rather than isolated initiatives. Indeed, some may ask: why motorbikes? The security challenge in Enugu is not confined to urban centres. Forests, rural roads and relatively isolated communities can provide cover for criminal groups, particularly where difficult terrain limits routine patrols and makes rapid intervention more complicated. Strengthening the Enugu State Forest Guards is therefore an important element of a comprehensive security strategy. The effectiveness of forest security depends on a combination of local intelligence, knowledge of the terrain, appropriate equipment, professional training and coordination with the police, military and other authorised agencies. By strengthening the institutional framework for the Forest Guards and supporting joint operations, the administration has taken concrete steps to improve security coverage beyond the major towns. The arrests connected to the Affa church abduction illustrate the importance of such collaboration. A joint operation involving the Department of State Services, the Nigerian Army, police, forest guards and other personnel led to arrests linked to the incident and the recovery of four AK-47 rifles, seven magazines and 133 rounds of ammunition. On August 14, the Enugu State Police Command also announced the arrest of 14 suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate allegedly involved in operations in Enugu and other states, including suspects linked to the Affa incident. The state’s technology-led security strategy has helped reduce violent crime by more than 80 per cent. As the 2027 general elections approach, the political atmosphere will inevitably become more tense and competitive. Governments will continue to explain, defend their records and secure a second term. Opposition parties will challenge the government and convince voters that their programmes offer a better future. That is a legitimate feature of democracy. This is what we desire to get from the opposition political parties and not unfounded allegations and misinformation. Political competition becomes dangerous when violence, intimidation, deliberate misinformation or unsubstantiated allegations are used to influence public perception. No political party should seek votes through deceit and manipulation. The Enugu State government has recently raised concerns about incidents involving the Nigeria Democratic Congress, including a confrontation at Akanu Ibiam International Airport and a shooting incident at the party’s state secretariat in Enugu. According to the Secretary to the State Government Professor Chidiebere Onyia, the airport confrontation arose after the party allegedly attempted to organise a campaign event at the facility without obtaining the necessary approval from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria. He said security agencies had advised the organisers to reconsider the event and that the ensuing confrontation required intervention to restore order. The government also offered important clarifications concerning the shooting at the party’s secretariat, saying that the police were investigating the incident. A man, identified as Ifeanyi Nworie, had sustained a gunshot wound and was taken to hospital for treatment. Sadly, he would later succumb to the injury. He also denied allegations that Governor Mbah’s Chief Security Officer

was present at the secretariat during the shooting. The police should conduct a thorough, impartial and transparent investigation, establish the sequence of events, identify those responsible for any offences and prosecute cases supported by admissible evidence. The government has a legitimate responsibility to protect public order and secure critical infrastructure. Political parties, in turn, have a responsibility to comply with applicable laws, obtain required permits and ensure that their activities remain peaceful. Where disputes arise, they should be resolved through lawful procedures rather than confrontation. The Governor Mbah administration has since accession demonstrated fidelity to his oath of office, which includes respect of the right to peaceful assembly and political participation. One of the greatest risks in an electoral environment is the temptation to attribute every violent incident to government – even when evidence suggests otherwise. An example was an incident at Obuofia in Nkanu West Local Government Area on September 12, 2026, wherein an opposition party alleged that the government was the masterminded of the violence. But an investigation by the police proves otherwise. Investigations revealed that the alleged perpetrators were actually members of the opposition party. Enugu needs a public conversation in which facts are established, wrongdoing is punished and innocent people are not condemned because of their political affiliations. Governor Mbah has stated that his administration’s ambition to build a larger and more competitive economy depends on sustained peace and security. The government welcomes peaceful political debate and association while rejecting politically-induced violence. Mbah’s government is very confident in its policies and is prepared to explain its decisions, publish relevant performance data – as it did recently – and answer legitimate questions from citizens, journalists, civil-society organisations and political opponents. Opposition parties, on their part, should be able to campaign, organise lawful meetings, criticise government policies constructively and present alternative programmes without hoodwinking. Their allegations should be evidence-based. The electoral process must remain the constitutional means through which citizens choose their leaders. No party should attempt to obtain through violence what it should seek through persuasion and lawful democratic participation. The right of Ndi Enugu to vote freely, organise peacefully and make informed decisions is inseparable from the state’s broader commitment to public safety. Like Mbah said recently, “I know how much our people value the peace and security we have worked so hard to establish in Enugu. Incidents such as these cause anxiety and deserve our full attention. Every citizen, whatever their political affiliation, must be able to exercise their political rights without fear or violence. The Enugu State Government has made its position clear regarding allegations of involvement in this violence. Our fundamental responsibility as a government is to protect lives, uphold the law, and ensure that justice is pursued without favour.” The above assurance caps it all. Indeed, Tomorrow is here! •Dr. Agbo is Enugu State Commissioner for Information.

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026

FEATURES

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

Zotmann International: How Global Recognition is Reinforcing Its Role in Nigeria’s Industrial Development Recently, Zotmann International Limited’s growing contribution to Nigeria’s industrial development and economic transformation earned the company international recognition in London, where it received the Excellence in Industrial Development and Economic Transformation Award from the First Ladies of Africa Impact & Resilience (FLAIR). Presented at the FLAIR Awards Gala Dinner at The Dorchester, Park Lane, London, the award recognises the company’s contributions to industrial development, economic diversification, investment promotion and sustainable business growth, particularly in Nigeria’s mining and industrial sectors. Royce Okolie reports

otmann International Limited, one of Nigeria’s emerging diversified business conglomerates, has received another prestigious international recognition, the Excellence in Industrial Development and Economic Transformation Award, from the First Ladies of Africa Impact & Resilience (FLAIR). The award was presented at the prestigious FLAIR Awards Gala Dinner, held at The Dorchester, Park Lane, London, as part of the organisation’s annual summit, which brings together influential personalities, business leaders, policymakers, development advocates and distinguished stakeholders committed to advancing Africa’s socioeconomic transformation.

L-R: Former Special Adviser to UK Prime Minister, Dr. Nero Ughwujabo; Co-founder FLAIR Global Summit, CBE Deputy Lieutenant of Greater London and Co-Founder FLAIR , Dr. Yvonne Thompson; Managing Director Zotmann International Limited, Mrs. Nneamaka Nwokeji; and Dr. Tonye Rex Idaminabo FRSA, during the presentation of the Excellence in Industrial Development & Economic Transformation to Zotmann International Limited in London… recently

Advancing Nigeria’s Industrialisation Agenda The recognition celebrates Zotmann International Limited’s growing contributions to industrial development, economic diversification, investment promotion and sustainable business growth, particularly through its activities in Nigeria’s mining and industrial sectors. The FLAIR Awards Gala Dinner serves as a distinguished platform for recognising exceptional leadership, resilience, innovation and transformative contributions to Africa’s Amb. Tonye Rex Idaminabo; Co-founder FLAIR Global Summit & Deputy Lieutenant of Greater CBE, London for King Charles II, Dr. Yvonne development, with particular emphasis L-R: Thompson; and Managing Director Zotmann International Limited, Mrs. Nneamaka Nwokeji, and other recipients of the FLAIR Award in on empowering women, strengthening London… recently institutions and promoting inclusive economic opportunities across the stressing that achieving this continent. potential requires visionary leadership, strategic investments, Nwokeji Highlights Commitment innovation and sustained to Sustainable Growth collaboration between governments Speaking after the event, the and the private sector. Managing Director of Zotmann International Limited, Mrs. Nneamaka Promoting Women’s Participation Nwokeji, described the recognition as a In Economic Transformation significant milestone in the company’s Mrs. Nwokeji emphasised journey towards becoming a leading the importance of empowering African enterprise committed to women and creating an industrial excellence, innovation and enabling environment for female sustainable economic development. entrepreneurs and professionals She noted that the award reflects to participate actively in Africa’s the company’s determination to economic transformation. contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s She further acknowledged industrialisation agenda while the role of FLAIR in promoting creating opportunities for economic inclusive leadership, resilience empowerment, employment generation and sustainable development, Co-founder FLAIR Global Summit & Deputy Lieutenant of Greater CBE, London for and long-term national development. King Charles II, Dr. Yvonne Thompson (in black) presenting the Excellence in Industrial describing the initiative as an Development & Economic Transformation to Managing Director, Zotmann International important platform for celebrating Harnessing Africa’s Resources For Limited, Mrs. Nneamaka Nwokeji in London… recently individuals and organisations Industrial Growth possesses enormous human of transforming the continent into making meaningful contributions According to Nwokeji, Africa and natural resources capable a global industrial powerhouse, to Africa’s progress.

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026

FEATURES

How NAFRC is Building Enterprise, Sustaining Military Discipline and Strengthening Bonds Beyond Service From entrepreneurship trainings and physical fitness to improvements at the Officers’ Mess and the annual Tombola Night, the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), Oshodi, Lagos, has pursued initiatives to support personnel development, operational readiness and institutional welfare. Chiemelie Ezeobi reports that the activities in September and early October reflect the centre’s commitment to preparing officers for life after retirement while strengthening camaraderie and cooperation among personnel and partner organisations

n developing personnel and strengthening institutional life, the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), Oshodi, Lagos, which is charged with preparing military personnel for life after active service, has also been equipping them with skills for productive engagement and supporting their professional development and welfare. From entrepreneurship training and physical fitness to improvements in the Officers’ Mess and social activities, the centre’s recent programmes in September and October 2026, address different aspects of military life. While the entrepreneurship course prepares officers to apply their experience to business creation and economic development, the route march reinforces the fitness and discipline required for national defence. At the centre of these efforts is its Commandant, Air Vice Marshal Nnaemeka Ignatius Ilo, whose involvement in the activities has underscored the importance of professional development, discipline, welfare and cooperation. Turning Military Experience Into Economic Value Earlier in September, NAFRC graduated 33 mid- and senior-level officers from Entrepreneurship and Management Course 19/2026, organised in collaboration with EMPRETEC Nigeria Foundation. The programme was designed to help officers translate their military service, leadership experience and professional discipline into sustainable enterprise and economic impact. Through classroom instruction, practical exercises and study tours, participants were introduced to business opportunities and the knowledge required to establish and manage enterprises. Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Ilo described the occasion as an important milestone in the centre’s efforts to equip officers with practical knowledge of entrepreneurship and business management. He urged the graduands to apply what they had learnt to their respective services, communities and future businesses while maintaining the values of discipline, integrity and professionalism. The 33 participants comprised 17 mid-level and 16 senior-level nominations, alongside two senior officers sponsored by the Commandant. They were drawn from the Defence Intelligence Agency, Defence Space Administration, Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force and NAFRC. According to the Director of Training, Brigadier General Isang E. Akpaumontia, the course covered agriculture, emotional intelligence, business management, legal advisory, health and lifestyle, entrepreneurship and technical modules. The officers also visited Beloxxi Industries, the National Conservation Centre, Cormart Nigeria Limited, FoodCo Bukka Restaurant and Songhai Farm in Porto Novo, Benin Republic. Akpaumontia said the visits exposed them to manufacturing, agriculture, food services, biodiversity, renewable energy, integrated farming and zero-waste practices. The Country Representative of EMPRETEC Nigeria Foundation, Dr. Onari Duke, said the programme was designed to transform military service, leadership experience and professional discipline into sustainable enterprise and economic impact. She urged the graduands to become business builders and agents of economic resilience by identifying opportunities, creating jobs and developing solutions in agriculture,

NAFRC Commandant, AVM Ignatius Ilo; AIG Olohundare Moshood Jimoh, Air Commodore S. U. Bello and Dr. Onari Duke at the recent graduation of Entrepreneurship and Management Course 19/2026

AVM Ilo after the Third-Quarter 10-Kilometre Route March

The commandant inaugurating the NAFRC Oﬃcers’ Mess Lounge... recently

technology, manufacturing and services. She also assured them of the foundation’s continued support through mentorship, post-training assistance and networking. Representing the Inspector General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 2, Lagos, AIG Olohundare Moshood Jimoh, urged the officers not to limit themselves to seeking security-related jobs after retirement but to use their skills to establish businesses and contribute to the economy. Fitness and Discipline for National Defence In September, the centre also conducted its third-quarter 10-kilometre route march to reinforce physical fitness, endurance and discipline among personnel. The exercise brought officers and soldiers together for a demanding march designed to build stamina and sustain the physical preparedness required for military duties. Addressing personnel at its conclusion, Ilo commended their participation and

determination, stressing that physical fitness remained essential to their wellbeing and operational effectiveness. He urged them to make regular exercise an integral part of their daily routine rather than treating the quarterly route march as an isolated activity. The commandant emphasised that protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity required personnel to remain physically fit, mentally alert and steadfast in carrying out their responsibilities. He also charged them to maintain high standards of discipline within and outside the centre. Ilo further urged personnel to remain committed to defending Nigeria and protecting the civil populace, stressing that their fitness, discipline and dedication were vital to building a safe and secure country. Inauguration of Officers’ Mess Lounge On September 16, 2026, Ilo, the Grand Patron of the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre Officers’ Mess, officially inaugurated the newly completed Mess Lounge, which was named in his

honour. At the ceremony, the President, Mess Committee, Air Commodore S. U. Bello, commended the Grand Patron for his support and contributions to the development of the Officers’ Mess. Bello noted that the achievements recorded by the Mess in its projects and activities had been made possible in large part by Ilo’s encouragement and assistance. He expressed appreciation for the Commandant’s prompt response to the committee’s needs and commitment to improving the facility. He also assured Ilo that the committee would continue working towards achieving further milestones in the development of the Mess. In his remarks, Ilo said he had no regrets appointing the current President Mess Committee, adding that the committee’s performance was evident in the projects and improvements recorded at the facility. He encouraged the committee to sustain its efforts and do more to advance the development of the Mess. He also expressed honour at having the lounge named after him and pledged to provide further assistance whenever the need arose. Annual Tombola Night Promotes Welfare and Cooperation On October 2, 2026, the NAFRC Officers’ Mess hosted its Annual Tombola Night, featuring entertainment, several rounds of draws and prizes for participants. The event was organised to promote the social welfare and wellbeing of personnel while strengthening relationships and mutually beneficial cooperation between the centre, security agencies and organisations within its areas of responsibility. Air Commodore Bello and members of the Mess Committee coordinated the programme, with several organisations sponsoring the event. The arrival of Ilo, who is also the Grand Patron of the Officers’ Mess, formally signalled the commencement of the programme. He was accompanied by the Admiral Superintendent, Naval Dockyard Limited; Commander Corps of Engineers; Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command; Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command, Nigerian Air Force; a representative of the AIG Zone 2 Lagos Command, Nigeria Police Force; and other distinguished guests and friends of the centre. The Tombola featured different categories, beginning with the Early Bird round and continuing with subsequent draws. Winners received cash prizes and gifts, including household appliances, food supplies, livestock and other items. Speaking at the event, Ilo appreciated the Mess Committee and sponsors for their contributions to its success, just as he described Tombola as part of military tradition, providing an opportunity for younger officers to learn its procedures while allowing personnel to unwind after a year of official duties. He encouraged guests and personnel to relax, socialise and enjoy the evening. Together, the four events reflect NAFRC’s commitment to preparing personnel for life beyond active service while sustaining the discipline, fitness and professionalism required in uniform. Under AVM Ilo’s leadership, the centre continues to emphasise entrepreneurship, operational readiness and personnel welfare, while strengthening the camaraderie and cooperation that remain important to military life and national development.

T H I S D AY THURSDAY OCTOBER 15, 2026 20 TR

UT H

& RE A S O

Thursday October 15, 2026 Vol 27. No 11504

opinion@thisdaylive.com

www.thisdaylive.com

RESTORING DIGNITY THROUGH PENSION PAYMENTS

Uba Sani approves ࠨ3.7billion for retirees and families of deceased civil servants, writes SABIR

See page 21

USMAN FAUZIYYAH, ASR AFRICA AND KHAIRUN JOSHUA OCHEJA writes that the partnership between ASR Africa and KHAIRUN has given many a platform

See page 21

EDITORIAL

THE GROWING CHALLENGE OF IDPS

See page 22

A people so endowed should live a life of worth, reckons BRUCE MALOGO

NIGERIANS DESERVE BREAD, NOT BULLETS

We are not poor. We are plundered. We didn’t fall. We were pushed. There is a GL൵HUHQFH 2QH LV DQ DFFLGHQW 7KH RWKHU LV D MRE )RU GHFDGHV WKRVH GRLQJ WKH MRE KDYH SHUIHFWHG WKH DUW RI PDNLQJ WKHLU YLFWLPV DSRORJL]H IRU EOHHGLQJ 7KH\ FDOO LW GHFRUXP 7KH\ FDOO LW SDWLHQFH 7KH\ FDOO LW SDWULRWLVP ,W LV QRQH RI WKRVH ,W LV PDLQWHQDQFH $ SRSXODWLRQ ORFNHG LQ WKH GDLO\ SDQLF RI VXUYLYDO ± RI ZKHWKHU WKH IXHO LQ \RXU FDU FDQ JHW \RX WR \RXU GHVWLQDWLRQ ZKHWKHU VFKRRO IHHV FDQ EH VWUHWFKHG ZKHWKHU WKH KRVSLWDO ZLOO GHPDQG D GHSRVLW EHIRUH WRXFKLQJ \RXU G\LQJ FKLOG 6XFK D SRSXODWLRQ GRHV QRW KDYH WKH OX[XU\ WR DXGLW D EXGJHW 'HVSDLU LV D VXSHUE LQVWUXPHQW RI FRQWURO 7KLV LV WKH FHQWUDO REVFHQLW\ 1LJHULDQV KDYH QR EXVLQHVV VX൵HULQJ WKLV PXFK 7KHUH LV QR PDWHULDO RU LQWHOOHFWXDO MXVWL¿FDWLRQ IRU LW :H DUH D FRXQWU\ WDXQWHG E\ RXU RZQ DEXQGDQFH $ QDWLRQ EOHVVHG ZLWK D KHDOWK\ DQG ERXQWLIXO ZHDOWK ERWK QDWXUDO DQG KXPDQ WKDW VKRXOG PDNH SHQXU\ LPSRVVLEOH :H KDYH FUXGH RLO DQG JDV ELWXPHQ DQG OLWKLXP FRFRD DQG VHVDPH DQG PLOOLRQ KHFWDUHV RI DUDEOH ODQG 0RUH LPSRUWDQWO\ ZH KDYH D SHRSOH ± LQYHQWLYH UHOHQWOHVV DQG GHPRJUDSKLFDOO\ \RXQJ :H ZHUH QRW DOZD\V D EHJJDU DW WKH JDWHV 7KHUH ZDV D WLPH ZKHQ 1LJHULD ZDV WKH HQY\ RI WKH 7KLUG :RUOG ,Q WKH V RXU YRLFH LQ LQWHUQDWLRQDO DQG GLSORPDWLF FLUFOHV ZDV QRW D ZKLPSHU LW ZDV D URDU :H EDQNUROOHG OLEHUDWLRQ PRYHPHQWV IURP $QJROD WR 6RXWK $IULFD ZH VHQW WHDFKHUV WR WKH &DULEEHDQ DQG GRFWRUV DFURVV :HVW $IULFD ZH QDWLRQDOL]HG %ULWLVK 3HWUROHXP WR PDNH D SRLQW :H VSRNH DQG WKH ZRUOG OHDQHG LQ WR OLVWHQ 7KDW LQÀXHQFH ZDV QRW DQ DFFLGHQW RI RLO ,W ZDV WKH GLYLGHQG RI seriousness. 1RW DQ\PRUH 7KDW SURMHFW KDV EHHQ DEDQGRQHG DQG WKH ELOO LV SDLG E\ WKH RUGLQDU\ 1LJHULDQ ZKR LV QRZ FOHDUO\ OLYLQJ D EHJJDUO\ OLIH $QG ZKDW GRHV WKDW EHJJDUO\ OLIH ORRN OLNH LQ WKH VW FHQWXU\" ,W ORRNV OLNH D ¿UVW FODVV JUDGXDWH LQ HQJLQHHULQJ ZKR GULYHV D ³NHNH´ RU WUDGHV FU\SWR EHFDXVH WKH IDFWRU\ WKDW VKRXOG KDYH KLUHG KLP ZDV QHYHU EXLOW 2XU XQHPSOR\PHQW LV QRW MXVW D QXPEHU LW LV D GDLO\ KXPLOLDWLRQ RI talent. ,W ORRNV OLNH D PRWKHU LQ ,JEX]R ZKR KDJJOHV ZLWK D ³FKHPLVW´ IRU SDUDFHWDPRO ± D EDVLF GUXJ WKDW KDV EHFRPH D OX[XU\ 7KLV LV LQHYLWDEOH ZKHQ RI 1LJHULD V SULPDU\ KHDOWK FHQWUHV DUH QRQ IXQFWLRQDO QR GUXJV QR VWD൵ QR OLJKW QR ZDWHU 0RUH WKDQ PLOOLRQ SHRSOH OLYH ZLWKRXW UHDO DFFHVV WR EDVLF FDUH ZKHUH D FDHVDUHDQ VHFWLRQ EDQNUXSWV D IDPLO\ DQG PDODULD VWLOO NLOOV FKLOGUHQ E\

the thousands. ,W ORRNV OLNH GDUNQHVV $IWHU \HDUVV RI LQGHSHQGHQFH DQG RYHU ELOOLRQ SRXUHG LQWR SRZHU WKH DYHUDJH 1LJHULDQ VWLOO UHFHLYHV OHVV WKDQ VL[ KRXUV RI UHOLDEOH HOHFWULFLW\ D GD\ :H UXQ D VW FHQWXU\ HFRQRP\ RQ JHQHUDWRUV ± WKH PRVW H[SHQVLYH LQH൶FLHQW DQG HQYLURQPHQWDOO\ GHVWUXFWLYH ZD\ WR SRZHU D QDWLRQ 6PDOO EXVLQHVVHV VSHQG RI WKHLU RYHUKHDG RQ GLHVHO ,W ORRNV OLNH MDSD ± WKH IUDQWLF H[RGXV RI RXU EHVW QXUVHV RXU EHVW HQJLQHHUV RXU EHVW GRFWRUV TXHXLQJ DW HPEDVVLHV QRW RXW RI DGYHQWXUH EXW RXW RI VXUUHQGHU :H WUDLQ WKHP KHUH DQG ORVH WKHP WKHUH DQG WKH JRYHUQPHQW FDOOV LW ³EUDLQ H[SRUW ´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¶V $EUDKDP /LQFROQ SXW LW ³0HQ RI DPELWLRQ DQG WDOHQW ZLOO FRQWLQXH WR VSULQJ XS DPRQJVW XV DQG ZKHQ WKH\ GR WKH\ ZLOO VHHN JUDWL¿FDWLRQ RI WKHLU UXOLQJ SDVVLRQ ZKHWKHU DW WKH H[SHQVH RI HPDQFLSDWLQJ VODYHV RU HQVODYLQJ IUHHPHQ ´ 1LJHULD V UXOLQJ FODVV RIWHQ FKRRVHV WKH ODWWHU ± D YLFLRXV UHOHQWOHVV YLRODWLRQ RI WKH PDQ\ E\ WKH IHZ &RQVLGHU ,QGRQHVLD ± RXU XVXDO PLUURU ,Q ZH ZHUH HTXDOV VDPH *'3 SHU FDSLWD VDPH GHSHQGHQFH RQ RLO VDPH PLOLWDU\ UXOH VDPH IUDFWLRXV GLYHUVLW\ 7RGD\ WKH PLUURU EUHDNV ,QGRQHVLD V HFRQRP\ LV WKUHH WLPHV RXUV ,W KDV EXLOW NP RI LQGXVWULDO UDLO DQG D PDQXIDFWXULQJ EDVH IRU PLOOLRQ SHRSOH ,WV SRYHUW\ UDWH KDV IDOOHQ IURP WR XQGHU 2XUV KDV ULVHQ :H QRZ OHDG WKH ZRUOG LQ H[WUHPH SRYHUW\ HYHQ RI WKH PXOWLGLPHQVLRQDO NLQG

7DNH 0DOD\VLD DV ZH DOZD\V WULHG WR UHPLQG RXUVHOYHV ,Q WKH V LW FDPH WR 1,)25 LQ %HQLQ &LW\ WR FROOHFW SDOP VHHGOLQJV ,W WRRN RXU IUXLW DQG EXLOW D ELOOLRQ JOREDO HPSLUH :H WKH RULJLQDO RZQHUV QRZ LPSRUW SDOP RLO &RQVLGHU WKH 8QLWHG $UDE (PLUDWHV 'XEDL KDG QRWKLQJ LQ EXW VDQG DQG D FUHHN ,WV HOGHUV FDPH WR VWXG\ WKH /DJRV SRUW V\VWHP ,W KDG QR RLO WR VSHDN RI 7RGD\ /DJRV JRHV WR 'XEDL WR OHDUQ KRZ WR UXQ D SRUW DQ DLUOLQH DQG D FLW\ 7KH 8$( WXUQHG LWV GHVHUW LQWR D KXE ZH turned our hub into a desert. (YHQ %RWVZDQD ± D ODQGORFNHG DULG FRXQWU\ WKDW DW LQGHSHQGHQFH KDG RQO\ NLORPHWUHV RI SDYHG URDG DQG XQLYHUVLW\ JUDGXDWHV ± KDV PDQDJHG LWV GLDPRQGV ZLWK D VRYHUHLJQ IXQG WKDW SD\V IRU IUHH HGXFDWLRQ DQG KHDOWKFDUH :H PDQDJHG RXU RLO ERRP LQWR GHEW 7KHVH FRXQWULHV DUH QRW PRUH EOHVVHG WKDQ 1LJHULD 7KH\ DUH VLPSO\ EHWWHU JRYHUQHG 7KH\ PDGH D SDFW WKDW SXEOLF ZHDOWK PXVW FUHDWH SXEOLF YDOXH +HUH WKH RSSRVLWH SDFW KROGV 7KH DXWKRULWLHV NHHS FKXUQLQJ RXW VWDWLVWLFV WKDW GR QRW UHÀHFW WKH REMHFWLYH UHDOLWLHV RI WKH SHRSOH ,QÀDWLRQ LV GRZQ WKH\ VD\ *URZWK LV XS 5HIRUPV DUH ZRUNLQJ +RZ GLVLQJHQXRXV WR UHGH¿QH SRYHUW\ RXW RI H[LVWHQFH ,I WKH ODZ LV DQ DVV VR LV VWDWLVWLFV ± \RX SXW LW WR ZKDWHYHU XVH \RX GHVLUH $IWHU DOO ZKR GRHVQ W NQRZ KRZ WR OLH ZLWK VWDWLVWLFV" )LJXUHV KDYH EHFRPH RXU QDWLRQDO DQDHVWKHWLF 7KH\ DUH GHSOR\HG WR FRQWUDGLFW ZKDW HYHU\ FLWL]HQ NQRZV IURP KLV RZQ VWRPDFK KLV RZQ UHQW KLV RZQ OLJKW VZLWFK $ *'3 ¿JXUH WKDW GRHV QRW UHÀHFW WKH UHDOLW\ RI WKH PDUNHW ZRPDQ LQ 2\LQJER RU 2JEHWH ZKRVH SXUFKDVLQJ SRZHU KDV KDOYHG LQ PRQWKV RU WKH IDUPHU LQ %LUQLQ *ZDUL ZKR FDQQRW UHDFK KLV IDUP EHFDXVH RI EDQGLWV LV QRW GDWD LW LV SURSDJDQGD 7KH\ DVN XV WR EH SDWLHQW ZLWK D V\VWHP that has never been patient with us. To be FLYLO WR D VWDWH WKDW LV VWUXFWXUDOO\ XQFLYLO WR LWV FLWL]HQV 7R ORZHU RXU YRLFHV ZKLOH RXU OLYHV DUH ORZHUHG 7R PDNH RXU ODQJXDJH DQWLVHSWLF LQ WKH IDFH RI VHYHUH SDLQ 7KH PDVV RI 1LJHULDQV LV QRZ ZLUHG WR DVVLPLODWH WRR PXFK VX൵HULQJ (YHQ DV WKH\ ORRN DW WKHLU DEMHFW FRQGLWLRQ WKH\ ¿QG ZD\V WR UHJDUG LW DV QRUPDO $QG WKH PRUH WKH\ IHHO WKLV FRQGLWLRQ WKH PRUH WKH\ EHFRPH LQXUHG WR ± QRW LQIRUPHG E\ ± ZKDW WKH\ DUH IHHOLQJ Malogo is a director at Oscar and Halliday Media Company and a member of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) bruce. malogo@gmail.com

T H I S D AY

321

THURSDAY OCTOBER 15, 2026

Uba Sani approves ࠨ3.7billion for retirees and families of deceased civil servants, writes SABIR USMAN

JOSHUA OCHEJA writes that the partnership between ASR Africa and KHAIRUN has given many a platform

RESTORING DIGNITY THROUGH PENSION PAYMENTS

FAUZIYYAH, ASR AFRICA AND KHAIRUN

Retirement should mark the beginning of a well-earned season of rest, dignity and security after years of dedicated service. For many public servants, however, the transition from active employment to retirement can become a period of uncertainty, particularly when pension payments and other entitlements remain outstanding. It is against this background that Governor Uba Sani’s latest approval of ଂ3.659 billion for retirees and families of deceased civil servants in Kaduna State takes on considerable significance. The approval, which covers 1,339 beneficiaries across Kaduna State and Local Government Services, represents another step in the administration’s stated effort to address pension liabilities and strengthen the state’s pension system. More than a financial allocation, it speaks to an important responsibility of the government: ensuring that people who devoted their productive years to public service are not left without the entitlements they earned. In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Ahmed Maiyaki, the state government disclosed that the latest payment brings the cumulative pension payments made by the Uba Sani administration since assuming office in May 2023 to ଂ21.455 billion, benefiting 9,683 people. These figures provide a measure of the scale of the administration’s pension intervention. They also highlight the continuing importance of a systematic approach to retirement obligations, particularly where outstanding liabilities have accumulated over time. Behind every pension figure is a human story. There are former teachers who spent decades educating children, health workers who served communities, administrative officers who kept public institutions functioning, and local government employees whose contributions helped sustain essential services. For such workers, retirement benefits are not gifts from the government. They are entitlements arising from years of service and, in many cases, contributions made during their working lives. Timely payment can help retirees meet everyday expenses, access healthcare, support dependents and plan their later years with greater confidence. The importance of these payments extends to families of deceased public servants. When a worker dies, eligible family members may face emotional and financial pressures at the same time. The payment of death benefits can provide some measure of support during a difficult period and help ensure that the deceased person's service is recognised through the fulfilment of

What is the best gift a parent can bequeath a child? It is usually an emotional nightmare for parents whose children cannot compete favourably in society due to a lack of education. Public tertiary institutions are reasonably affordable. But it is relative, and not all households can afford it. This article tells the story of an organisation doing something differently to solve a problem by creating a path, instead of quick fixes. To donate a book to a school is one thing, to donate a book and teach the child how to read it is another thing. This is the story of ASR Africa in its 500 students' scholarship initiative for outstanding indigent students from Kano and other parts of the country in a tertiary institution called KHAIRUN. KHAIRUN is Khalifa Isyaku Rabiu University. It is an upscale private university in Kano State. It is a creation of the Khalifa Isyaku Rabiu Education Foundation, in honour of the late Khalifa Sheikh Isyaku Rabiu, an offspring of the Sheikh Muhammad Rabiu dynasty of Kano State, and father of Alhaji Abdul Samad Rabiu. ASR Africa is the Abdul Samad Rabiu initiative for Africa with an annual grant of $100 million for interventions in health, education, and social development. ASR Africa stands on a strong podium created by serial entrepreneur Abdul Samad Rabiu, the founder of the BUA Group. According to him, the idea behind ASR Africa is a "deep-rooted commitment to fostering substantial progress across the African continent." In 2024, ASR Africa published an advertorial offering a full tertiary education scholarship for low-income families across the country at KHAIRUN. It appeared too good to be true. According to available statistics gathered, over 1,000 students applied and 500 students, on the dot, got admitted under a 60% female and 40% male ratio. 100 students were from Kano and 400 from other parts of the country. They are all presently in their second year, studying various courses such as cybersecurity, software engineering, mathematics, physics with electronics, nursing science, forensic science, radiography, and computer, electrical, and mechanical engineering. Fauziyyah is 19 years old, and the first child in a family of four. She gained admission to the University of Abuja to study nursing after her mother, Fatima, decided, out of faith, to see her through. After her first year, there was no way for her to continue her studies. Fatima, who has raised her four children alone through her petty trade of shoe and bag making, took a step of faith without any tangible or sustainable income to back her desire to ensure that her daughter attained a university education. Fauziyyah is an Arabic name that means successful woman. But the road looked bleak for the young girl at some point until the ASR Africa door opened.

legitimate obligations. This is why the latest approval carries significance beyond its monetary value. It places retirees and eligible families within the administration’s stated public welfare priorities and reinforces the principle that service to government should not end in neglect when active employment comes to a close. Maiyaki underscored this position when he stated that Governor Sani remained committed to ensuring that those who devoted their productive years to Kaduna State received their legitimate entitlements with dignity. “Pension payment is not a favour; it is an obligation to our retirees and the families of deceased public servants,” the commissioner said. That statement captures the central issue in pension administration. Retirees should not have to depend on sympathy or political goodwill to receive benefits due to them. A credible pension system must operate as a public obligation, supported by clear procedures, reliable funding and accountability. The latest approval covers beneficiaries under two pension arrangements: the Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS) and the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS). According to the breakdown provided by the state government, 210 Local Government retirees under the Defined Benefit Scheme are to receive ଂ515 million. Under the Contributory Pension Scheme, ଂ3.144 billion has been approved for 1,129 beneficiaries. This group comprises 402 retirees from the State Service and 727 retirees from Local Government Councils. Together, the two categories account for the 1,339 beneficiaries covered by the latest release. The breakdown is important because Kaduna’s pension obligations span different categories of public servants and pension arrangements. Addressing them requires an approach that recognises the needs of retirees across both state and local government services. Usman writes from Kaduna State

Sometimes our names carry meanings and sometimes they work for us. Today, she is studying radiography at KHAIRUN on ASR Africa's bill. She is just one of 500 students whose stories carry real weight, made possible by an organisation that chose to do things differently, one that went beyond providing succour to creating a platform for indigent students to turn their hopes and aspirations into tangible realities. The ASR Africa scholarship initiative at KHAIRUN can pass for a bouncing trampoline that recipients can use to leap to greater heights. In trampoline aerobics, how high you bounce depends on the pressure you apply, not just the flexibility of the bands. That is the difference between this and other scholarship initiatives: the recipients have been given the platform they lacked, but the end result depends on their own commitment to changing their life trajectory. According to Dr Ubon Udoh, the CEO of ASR Africa, "the initiative is a deliberate intervention on a value and merit-based platform, born from the founder's deep commitment to creating opportunities for the next generation of African minds, regardless of their perceived status in society." The takeaway from his statement is the desire to create opportunities. Then I ask: opportunities for whom, and why? Who are the beneficiaries of the scholarship programme? What is their social status? And why the emphasis on them? I found part of the answer after browsing the ASR Africa website. Under its "How It Began" page, the prose read: "This initiative is a beacon of hope, spearheading a new era of philanthropy that aims to build a more prosperous future for Africa." And that was not all. It went on to state: "It strives to make an empowered Africa a reality. This is more than a promise. It is our mission at ASR Africa." Ocheja holds dual PhDs: Military History from the Nigerian Defence Academy, and Leadership and Public Policy from the University of Abuja.

22 4

T H I S D AY THURSDAY OCTOBER 15, 2026

EDITORIAL

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

THE GROWING CHALLENGE OF IDPS The authorities must do more to cushion the hardship in the camps

n almost two decades, repeated attacks and violence have forced out entire communities, uprooted families from ancestral homes and destroyed their sources of livelihoods. As it is, millions of Nigerians have been growing up without homes, education, or hope, essentially driven by insecurity, banditry, farmer-herder FRQÀLFWV DQG FRPPXQDO YLROHQFH :RPHQ DQG FKLOGren make up the vast majority of those living in displacement camps, and placing them at higher risk. Last week, the federal government disclosed that 3.7 million Nigerians live in various camps and host FRPPXQLWLHV D ¿JXUH D OLWWOH VK\ RI WKH FRPELQHG population of Namibia and Botswana. ([SHFWHGO\ VWDWHV LQ WKH QRUWKHDVW KDYH D VLJQL¿FDQW burden of the displaced people, hosting 2.2 million, due to the Boko Haram insurgency. This is followed by the northwest and the northcentral where about 720,000 and 605,000 people respectively, are forced to inhabit the Internally Displaced Peoples (IDP) camps due largely to banditry, DQG IDUPHU KHUGHU FRQÀLFWV Borno, the headquarters of WKH LQVXUJHQF\ EHDUV D VLJQL¿FDQW SRUWLRQ RI KRPHless persons. Although the state government has VKXW GRZQ DOO R൶FLDO FDPSV LQ 0DLGXJXUL RYHU camps, both formal and informal, still dot the state’s landscape, hosting hundreds of thousands of IDPs. :KLOH WKH 0DGLQQDWX FDPS LQ -HUH ORFDO JRYHUQPHQW remains functional, a recent attack in Ngoshe community in Gwoza local government forced the authorities to open a temporary camp near Pulka to accommodate thousands of displaced residents, mostly women and children. Zamfara State, the operational headquarters of banditry, is hosting about 276,887 displaced persons in nine camps due to persistent armed banditry. Reports indicate that at least 107 villages were overrun by bandits between 2009 and 2026, forcing WKRXVDQGV WR ÀHH WR *XVDX WKH VWDWH FDSLWDO 6RPH RI WKHP OLYH LQ FDPSV OLNH 7VXQDPL 0DUHUL 7XGXQ :DGD 8QJXZDU *ZD]D DQG KDYH H[SHULHQFHG PXOtiple displacement as a result of constant violence.

%HQXH D VWDWH D൵HFWHG ODUJHO\ E\ IDUPHU KHUGHU clashes, is home to over 500,000 IDPs, making it one of the worst-hit states. The state operates 14 recognised camps, but reportedly transitioning from temporary relief to a durable solutions framework, and focusing on voluntary return, resettlement and reintegration. In nearby Taraba State, about 90,000 displaced persons are sheltered in camps located in Peva and .XIDL $KPDGX LQ &KDQFKDQML :DUG RI 7DNXP /*$ Some of them do not feel safe and have crossed into neighbouring communities in Benue State. 0HDQZKLOH SHUVLVWHQW DWWDFNV DFURVV 3ODWHDX VWDWH have led to the displacement of thousands of resiGHQWV &RPPXQLWLHV LQ 0DQJX :DVH %DUNLQ /DGL 5L\RP DQG -RV 6RXWK DUH QXUVLQJ ZRXQGV IURP several attacks. However, most displaced residents in Plateau live with relatives, a system that preserves social ties in spite of strains to host families. Although the government has taken steps to protect and address the plight of IDPs across the country by providing camps, many of the displaced persons are facing severe socio-economic, health and environmental challenges and other essential services. From living in deplorable conditions to hunger and malnutrition to poor sanitary conditions, WKHLU DFFHVV WR FOHDQ ZDWHU LV DOVR GL൶FXOW :RPHQ and girls are sexually exploited, some by men who are supposed to protect them. Indeed, issues of insecurity and criminality which drove them out of their ancestral homes persist in the camps, in some cases, LQ ZRUVW IRUPV %HVLGHV H൵HFWLYH PDQDJHPHQW RI IDPs is hampered by mistrust and diversion of relief materials. The 1st Vice President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and Chairman of the Human Rights Institute, Sabastine Anyia, said rightly that the IDPs who languish in camps across the nation, live in FRQGLWLRQV ³WKDW UHSUHVHQW ÀDJUDQW YLRODWLRQV RI EDsic human rights.” It is time to put an end to the brutal war so that the displaced can reclaim their dignity.

From living in deplorable conditions to hunger and malnutrition to poor sanitary conditions, their access to clean water is also diﬃcult T H I S D AY EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

T H I S D AY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: ﬁrst name.surname@thisdaylive.com

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

LETTERS

AIRPORTS AND DISCRIMINATION AGAINST MINORITY FAITH 1LJHULD PXVW HQG R൶FLDO GLVFULPLQDWLRQ DJDLQVW PLnority faith and belief groups. The entrenched exclusion of citizens who are neither Christians nor muslims is evident at the airports. Existing statistics say that Nigeria LV SUHGRPLQDQWO\ &KULVWLDQ DQG 0XVOLP ZLWK PLOOLRQV of the population professing, believing, or praying the Christian or Islamic way. But it is well known that many RI WKRVH FRXQWHG DQG LGHQWL¿HG DV &KULVWLDQV DQG PXVOLPV LQ 1LJHULD GR QRW SURIHVV WKHVH IDLWKV 0LOOLRQV RI LQGLYLGXDOV DUH GHVLJQDWHG DV &KULVWLDQV RU 0XVOLPV EHFDXVH RI ZKHUH WKH\ ZHUH ERUQ RU ZKHUH WKH\ OLYH 0LOOLRQV RI SHRSOH UHJDUGHG DV &KULVWLDQV RU 0XVOLPV GR QRW EHOLHYH RU SURIHVV WKHVH IDLWKV 0DQ\ 1LJHULDQV SD\ OLS VHUYLFH WR WKHVH UHOLJLRQV 0DQ\ &KULVWLDQ DQG PXVOLP Nigerians cannot identify otherwise because they fear they would be persecuted, prosecuted, jailed, or murdered if they come out as non believers. The Nigerian state is constitutionally secular and prohibits a state re-

ligion at federal and state levels. Nigeria's secularity is only on paper, not in practice, because Nigeria is a de facto Chrislamic state. In fact Christianity and Islam are state religions. In addition, the constitution recognizes citizens' right to Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB), including the right to change religion or profess no religion. However, this right is not protected. Blasphemy and apostasy laws exist and are enforced in various states. FoRB is largely misunderstood, abused, or used to favour or further Christianity and Islam. The government privileges these two main religions. It uses state funds to sponsor and subsize their activities including pilgrimages. As shown at airports and in other aspects of national life, the Nigerian government is biased towards ChrisWLDQLW\ DQG ,VODP DQG R൶FLDOO\ GLVFULPLQDWHV DJDLQVW minority faith and belief groups. Nigerian government compels citizens to profess Islam or Christianity and to

pray in the Christian or Islamic way. Otherwise, how does one explain the situation at the airports where the government provides prayer rooms for only muslims DQG &KULVWLDQV" :K\ DUH WKHUH QR SUD\HU PHGLWDWLRQ RU UHÀHFWLRQ IDFLOLWLHV IRU 1LJHULDQV ZKR DUH QHLWKHU &KULVWLDQV QRU PXVOLPV" 0LOOLRQV RI 1LJHULDQV GR QRW SUD\ WKH Christian or Islamic way. There are Nigerians who are traditionalists, or atheists and humanists who pray or reÀHFW LQ RWKHU ZD\V 0LOOLRQV RI 1LJHULDQV SURIHVV IDLWKV DQG EHOLHIV RWKHU WKDQ &KULVWLDQLW\ DQG ,VODP :K\ LV WKHUH QR SURYLVLRQ IRU WKHP DW DLUSRUWV" :K\ DUH WKHUH QR UHOLJLRXV RU SKLORsophical facilities at airports where these people can pray RU UHÀHFW LQ ZD\V FRQVLVWHQW ZLWK WKHLU IDLWKV RU EHOLHIV" How can the Nigerian government justify that it treats equally Nigerians of all faiths and none? Leo Igwe, a Nigerian Humanist, Lagos

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026

BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S MONEY MARKET

A S

A T

REPO

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

08056356325

O C T O B E R

S & P INDEX

1 4 , 2 0 2 6

S & P INDEX

EXCHANGE RATE

OPR

25.34%

CALL

23.25%

INDEX LEVEL

595.26

1/4 TO DATE

0.24%

N1,383.00 / 1 US DOLLAR*

OVERNIGHT

25.18%

1-MONTH

21.37%

1-DAY

0.10%

YEAR TO DATE

-10.99%

*AS AT WED., OCTOBER 14, 2026

3-MONTH

22.41%

MONTH-TO-DATE

0.24%

ITU, WMO Move to Protect Global Radio Spectrum for Weather, Climate and Water Services

Stories by Emma Okonji The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), have called on governments, regulators, and meteorologists across globe, to safeguard access and interference to radio frequency spectrum essential for weather forecasts, early warnings, climate monitoring and water management. The appeal came with the release of a new joint handbook, titled: ‘Use of Radio Spectrum for

Meteorology: Weather, Climate, Water and Related Environmental Applications.’ The new publication by ITU and WMO, offered updated guidance on the use and protection of radio frequencies supporting critical meteorological systems. These systems enable observations of the atmosphere, oceans, and land, and the transmission of data that supports lifesaving early warnings, reliable weather forecasting, and long-term climate monitoring. The ITU-WMO handbook,

formally released at the opening of the Global ITUWMO Seminar on Spectrum Use for Meteorology, also highlighted the potential impact of radio-frequency interference on the accuracy and availability of essential environmental data. Speaking on how best to protect radio spectrum from interference, SecretaryGeneral of ITU, Doreen Bogdan-Martin, said: “Preventing harmful radio interference is a matter of public safety and can save lives. Interference-free spectrum keeps weather

forecasts accurate, emergency alerts and warnings timely, and climate data reliable. With this, communities can prepare, respond and build resilience.” WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo, said: “The radio-frequency spectrum is a finite natural resource. Meteorology relies on specific bands — determined not by choice, but by the physical properties of the atmosphere itself: they enable observations that no other frequencies can provide. These bands must be protected. Protect the

spectrum that lets us observe the atmosphere, and we protect forecasts and early warnings on which every country depends.” In Nigeria, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), has made several forecasts on weather across regions, with warnings on possible flood in some parts of Nigeria. NiMet’s prediction and warning stems from the update it gets from the radio spectrum band assigned to Nigeria by the ITU, which it seeks to protect globally. For instance, NiMet recently predicted a mix of

three-day rainfall, sunshine and thunderstorms across Nigeria from Monday October 12 to Wednesday October 14, 2026. The agency envisaged thunderstorms accompanied by moderate rainfall over parts of Ondo, Osun, Ogun, Lagos, Imo Abia, Enugu, Ebonyi, Anambra, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Bayelsa, Edo and Delta states, and warned that strong winds could precede thunderstorms in affected areas and urged residents to secure loose objects to prevent accidents. The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Report: African Cities Rank among Global AI Adopters Despite Infrastructure Deficits Global cities like London, Dubai, New York City, Washington DC, and Amsterdam top the rankings of the world’s most intelligent cities according to new research from Boston Consulting Group (BCG). Although listed cities excel in different areas, none of them is leading across every domain, underscoring that no city has mastered every relevant dimension. The report also revealed an interesting urban trend

across Africa’s major economic hubs, citing African cities like Lagos in Nigeria, Johannesburg in South Africa, Casablanca in Morocco, and Cairo in Egypt, as African cities that are high adopters of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology globally, despite infrastructure deficits. While all four cities currently sit in the report’s “Developing” maturity tier due to deficits in digital infrastructure and star-tup funding, the citizens of

the listed African cities are among the most active and optimistic AI adopters globally, the report said. The report, tagged: “BCG’s Intelligent Cities Index 2026: How AI Shapes Urban Living’, is the firm’s inaugural assessment of how 61 of the world’s biggest cities across 39 countries use technology to serve their residents and businesses. The report evaluated cities across five domains of intelligent city maturity: outcomes, strategy, adoption, ways

of working, and enablers. The report is of the view that a city’s overall maturity level reflects its combined maturity across domains such as leading, accelerating, emerging, or developing.” Addressing African’s lead in citizen’s AI appetite, the report viewed the African indices as supercharged by young demographics, where over 50 per cent of the population in Cairo, Casablanca, and Lagos is under the age of 35, as these

cities land squarely in the “AI Enthusiasts” cohort. According to the report, Casablanca achieved a top ranking in AI adoption and smart city app usage, outpacing numerous established international metropolises. The report also found that cities do not need to begin with or focus solely on world-class infrastructure or deep funding ecosystems to improve resident outcomes. “Expanding intelligent AIenabled city services can

strengthen quality of life and overall intelligent city maturity regardless of a city’s starting point, demonstrating that multiple pathways exist to becoming a smarter city, aligned with each city’s current maturity across domains, “the report said. The report uncovered a clear alignment between how frequently residents use Generative AI (GenAI) tools and how positively they view AI’s future impact. The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

M A R K E T D ATA A S AT W E D N E S D AY, O C T O B E R 1 4 , 2 0 2 6 BONDS DESCRIPTION Price Yield Change Updated Time (%) October ^13.98 230.00 14, 2026 96.21 16.98 FEB-2028 ^21.00 20October 105.35 16.90 0.00 14, MAR-2028 2026 October ^19.30 170.06 14, 104.53 17.05 2026 APR-2029 ^14.55 26October 95.28 16.80 0.00 APR-2029 14, 2026 ^18.50 21October 104.48 17.02 -0.12 FEB-2031 14, 2026

BILLS MATURITY NTB 8-Oct26 NTB 5-Nov26 NTB 3-Dec26 NTB 7-Jan27 NTB 4-Feb27

Discount Yield

CPS

Change (%) Updated Time

MATURITY

17.00

17.30

October 0.00 14, 2026

17.30

17.85

October 0.00 14, 2026

17.79

18.63

October 0.00 14, 2026

18.54

19.83

October 0.00 14, 2026

19.83

October 0.00 14, 2026

HAAI CP X 7-SEP-26 PCLL CP V 25-SEP-26 AGRO CP IV 7-DEC-26 DAIL CP II 26-NOV-26 JVIL CP XXIV 29-DEC-26

17.10

Discount Yield 22.85

22.92

22.79

23.12

22.80

24.25

21.22

22.32

22.20

23.91

CLEARED NAIRA-SETTLED NDFS Change (%)

Updated Time

October -0.01 14, 2026 October 0.00 14, 2026 October 0.01 14, 2026 October 0.00 14, 2026 October 0.01 14, 2026

CONTRACT TENOR Contract (MONTH)

Current Rate ($/₦)

Updated Time

–

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026

BUSINESSWORLD

INTERVIEW

Nechi: Global Mobility has Moved Beyond Travel, Relocation As 2026 draws to a close, Chairman of Optiva Capital Partners, Franklin Nechi, believes the conversation around global mobility has moved beyond travel and relocation. For an increasing number of African families and entrepreneurs, international access is becoming part of a broader approach to business continuity, family planning, investment diversification and long-term opportunity. Excerpts will be at home anywhere, but their wealth will have an African anchor.

Has the meaning of “Global Mobility as the New Wealth” changed as we close 2026? t has not changed, it has deepened. In Q1 we said it as a thesis. Today in Q3/ Q4, we say it as a reality. What I have learned this year is that wealth without access is stranded wealth. We have seen clients with substantial Naira assets unable to execute a global business transaction, attend to a medical emergency, or get their child to school on time because they lacked access. In 2026, access proved more valuable than asset. That reinforced our thesis completely.

If access is the new wealth, what should Africans do with that access? Convert it. Access for its own sake is vanity. Access must be converted into three things: Opportunity for your business, Options for your family, and Impact for your community. The smart African is not collecting visas, he is using access to build a Ne ch i supply chain, to secure world-class education, to attract investment signiﬁcant immigration policy back home. changes. Biggest lessons for 2027? Are we witnessing a new Three lessons. First, the era African wealth philosophy of cheap, casual citizenship from owning more to having is over. Governments want access to more? transparency, source of funds, Absolutely. The old philosophy and genuine credibility. Second, was accumulation. The new timing is critical. Windows open philosophy is positioning. The and close. Those who waited previous generation asked, “How lost opportunities. Third, you much land do you own?” The need credible advisors more next generation will ask, “In how than ever. In a tightening world, many markets can you operate? who files your application is as How many currencies can your important as what you file.6. family earn and save in? How Which pathways will be more many doors can your children walk valuable in 2027, and which through without a visa barrier?” require caution? Value will lie That is the shift from ownership in robust, reputable jurisdictions to access. that offer long-term stability, strong due diligence, and real At what point does a second economic substance – like passport stop being a travel Grenada, Canada Start-Up document and become a wealth Visa, and select EU residencies. strategy? Caution should be applied to The moment it stops being programmes that promise speed about you and starts being about without due diligence or price your family. When you move without process. If it sounds from thinking “Where can I go too cheap and too fast, it will next month?” to “Where can be too risky. Credibility is the my children live, learn, work new currency. and thrive in the next 30 years regardless of what happens in any What role does mobility play one economy?” At that point, it for African entrepreneurs is no longer a travel document. It operating globally from is an insurance policy, a business Africa? tool, and a succession instrument. Mobility is the operating system. You can have your 2026 has been a year of headquarters in Victoria

What distinguishes Optiva from simply selling citizenship? We do not sell passports. We build legacy strategies. Anyone can sell you a programme brochure. We start with your family goals: Where do you see your children in 20 years? What business are you building? What risks are you trying to mitigate? Then we architect the right pathway. We are advisors first, service providers second. That is why we have lasted 16 years.

Island, but your clients are in Houston, your investors are in London, and your tech team is in Nairobi. Without mobility, you cannot close deals, you cannot build trust. Mobility has become logistics for business growth. Can global mobility strengthen African businesses rather than encourage capital ﬂight? This is a critical misconception. Global mobility does not mean capital flight; it means capital circulation. Our clients are not moving money out to abandon Africa. They are creating global access to bring money back in – through trade, through investment, through partnerships. A second citizenship makes you more African, not less, because it gives you the confidence and capacity to invest at home. What does the globally competitive African entrepreneur of the next decade look like? He or she will be globally compliant, globally mobile, and globally credible. They will operate with two passports, multi-currency accounts, international business structures, but with an African heart. They

How is Optiva preparing for a world demanding greater transparency? We welcome it. We were already ahead of it. For years we have operated a zero-tolerance policy for undocumented funds. We invested in compliance, global legal partnerships, and enhanced due diligence before it became fashionable. Governments trust us because we filter credibility at source. Transparency is not a threat to us; it is our competitive advantage. Biggest misconception about second citizenship? That it means you are unpatriotic or that you want to run away. The truth is the opposite. The people who seek second citizenship are the most patriotic – they are successful here, they want to remain relevant globally, and they want to protect what they have built here for their children. Second citizenship is not about leaving Nigeria; it is about ensuring Nigeria does not leave you behind. The one thing I wish every client understood: It is not an expense. It is an asset class. Like real estate, like equities. And like every good asset, the best time to acquire it was yesterday. The next best time is today. If Q1 began with “Global Mobility is the New Wealth,” and we close with legacy, what is your single message for 2027? My message is simple: Do not just build wealth. Build access. Do not just build access. Build impact. And do not just build for today. Build a legacy that will make your children proud to be African and ready for the world. That is the meaning of “Home for Christmas, Ready for the World.” You can be globally connected without being disconnected from home. Thank you.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026 ˾ T H I S D AY

BUSINESSWORLD

NEWS

NOTICE OF RETRACTION

Expert Challenges Nigerian RE: CONGRATULATORY ADVERTISEMENT PUBLISHED Entrepreneurs on Sustainable Devt ON PAGE 10 OF THISDAY NEWSPAPER ON TUESDAY, Stories by Emma Okonji Founder and Group Chief Executive Officer of Interswitch, Mitchell Elegbe, has urged Nigerian entrepreneurs to combine ambition with disciplined execution, encouraging them to start with practical solutions to real problems, and build with scale in mind to create sustainable businesses. Elegbe made the call while delivering a keynote presentation at the 2026 edition of The Platform Nigeria, hosted by The Covenant Nation in Iganmu, Lagos, under the theme: ‘Dream Big. Execute with knowledge’.

The event brought together business leaders, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders to explore practical approaches to building businesses, driving innovation and creating sustainable growth. Reflecting on what it takes to build and scale businesses in Nigeria, Elegbe encouraged entrepreneurs to focus on identifying opportunities, solving relevant problems and developing the knowledge and capabilities required to build for the long term. He urged them to look beyond the size of an initial idea and concentrate on the execution, learning and capabilities that can create a foundation for sustainable

growth. “Execution is more important than the size of the dream. But once you get it right, it’s called knowledge. It’s called experience. With experience, you can then scale,” Elegbe said. He encouraged entrepreneurs to think about scale from the outset, even when starting with a small operation. He noted that considerations around people, partnerships, technology, systems and business architecture could help position businesses to respond effectively as new opportunities emerge.

Firm Wins Digital Payments Platform of the Year Award PalmPay, has been named Digital Payments Platform of the Year at the 2026 BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards, recognising the company’s contribution to the growth of digital payments and financial inclusion in Nigeria. The BAFI Awards organised by BusinessDay and held in Lagos, was officially presented to PalmPay by the publisher and co-founder of BusinessDay, Mr. Frank Aigbogun. Since launching in Nigeria in 2019, PalmPay has built

an inclusive digital financial services ecosystem, enabling customers to make payments, pay bills, and access other financial services through its platform. The company now serves over 35 million users in Nigeria, supported by a broad network of merchants and agents that enables digital transactions across the country. Commenting on the recognition, Managing Director, PalmPay Nigeria, Chika Nwosu, said the award reflected the company’s commitment to building financial services

around the everyday needs of Nigerians. “We are honoured to receive the Digital Payments Platform of the Year award at the BAFI Awards. Digital payments have become an important part of how Nigerians manage their finances, run businesses and carry out everyday transactions. This award reflects our continued commitment to making financial services more accessible, reliable and secure for the millions of customers who use PalmPay every day,” Nwosu said.

OCTOBER 13, 2026

We refer to the congratulatory advertisement published on page of the uesday ctober edition of his ay ewspaper placed by ictor via and hildren in celebration of Soibi via S on her elevation to the prestigious ran of Senior dvocate of igeria S We wish to clarify that the advertisement was intended as a surprise congratulatory message to celebrate this signi icant professional milestone owever it was published without the prior nowledge authori ation or e press consent of Soibi via S We ac nowledge that the publication notwithstanding its celebratory intent may have caused her some inconvenience or attracted unintended public attention ccordingly we hereby retract the said publication and sincerely apologi e to Soibi via S as well as her professional colleagues for any inconvenience or concern the publication may have occasioned We regret any unintended consequences arising from this publication and reaf irm that our sole intention was to celebrate and honour this remar able achievement Signed VICTOR OVIA AND CHILDREN

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

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

Beyond Hospital Bills: LASHMA’s Fight to Shield Nigerians from Medical Poverty For many Nigerians without health insurance, a serious illness does not only threaten their health, it can threaten their ﬁnancial stability, forcing families to dip into savings, sell assets or borrow money to pay for treatment. Funmi Ogundare and Ayodeji Ake examine how the absence of adequate health insurance can leave households vulnerable to the devastating economic consequences of illness

adiq Adedeji is swimming in debt. For one young Lagosbased vulcaniser, life seemed to be going according to plan. He was young, working and making money. He saved from what he earned, lived within his means and, by his own standards, was comfortable. There was no major medical emergency hanging over his household, so health insurance did not appear to him to be an urgent necessity. After he got married, however, people around him advised him to consider taking a health insurance plan. However, he declined. Like many people who postpone insurance until illness strikes, he believed that if a medical challenge came, he would find a way to deal with it. Adedeji’s first major financial shock came when his aged father needed eye surgery. Because nobody in the family had health insurance, the responsibility for the medical bills fell directly on him. He had to pay from his pocket for the surgery, as well as the medical care before and after the procedure. The savings he had carefully accumulated began to disappear. At the same time, his wife was pregnant. What followed turned an ordinary family expense into a devastating financial crisis. As the pregnancy progressed into the third trimester, his wife developed health complications. The young man, already financially weakened by his father’s treatment, had to find more money for medical care. His savings were no longer enough. He borrowed from friends and relatives. He also turned to loan sharks. The more medical bills came, the more debt accumulated. Eventually, his wife needed a Caesarean section. Once again, he had to scramble for money, borrowing from different sources while already struggling under the weight of previous debts. Then came the tragedy no family should have to experience. His wife gave birth, but the baby was stillborn. Adedeji was left facing two devastating realities at once: the loss of his child and a mountain of debt accumulated in the attempt to pay for medical care. His experience captures a problem that often receives less attention in discussions about healthcare; a medical crisis can become a financial crisis. It is a reality health insurance is designed, at least in part, to address. Health insurance cannot guarantee

L-R: The Head, Customer Service, Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), Mr. Lanre Green; Head, Business Development, Mr. Rotimi Olatunji; Permanent Secretary, LASHMA, Dr. Emnanuella Zamba; President, Health Writers Association of Nigeria (HEWAN), Mrs. Vivian Ihechu; and Coordinator Regulations, LASHMA, Mr. Tosin Awosika, during the 2-Day Capacity Building for journalists organised by LASHMA...recently

that a patient will survive a serious illness. It cannot guarantee that every pregnancy complication will have a positive outcome. But having health insurance can reduce the extent to which families have to pay for covered healthcare entirely out of pocket when unexpected medical needs arise. That is the financial protection at the centre of Lagos State’s push for compulsory social health insurance. Under Executive Order number EO/BOS/01 of 2024, the state government made enrolment in social health insurance compulsory for residents and workers in the state. The implementation is being carried out in phases, with enforcement activities formally commencing in 2026. For the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), with its ILERA EKO initiative, the objective is not simply to create another government programme. It is to ensure that residents have a mechanism for accessing healthcare without being left financially devastated when illness occurs. The agency said the scheme is designed to protect residents from catastrophic health expenditure, promote access to quality and affordable healthcare, and encourage shared responsibility in financing healthcare. LASHMA also describes the scheme as providing ‘peace of mind’ by making medical expenditure more predictable and protecting households from the financial hardship associated

with huge medical bills. Making health insurance understood But while the government may make insurance compulsory, another challenge remains: getting residents to understand why they need it and how to use it. That challenge was at the centre of a two-day capacity-building programme organised by LASHMA for journalists on the Lagos State health scheme and the mandatory social health insurance programme, known as ILERA EKO. The Permanent Secretary of LASHMA, Dr.Emmanuella Zamba, urged journalists to take the lead in educating residents on the benefits of health insurance, saying effective public communication was critical to achieving universal health coverage in Lagos. “Policies alone do not guarantee success, their effectiveness depends on understanding, cooperation and participation,” Zamba said. She explained that the media have a responsibility to build public confidence in the scheme by providing accurate information, correcting misconceptions and holding institutions accountable. Zamba recalled that she had made a commitment at a national media dialogue organised by the International Society of Media in Public Health in Abuja in October 2025 to prioritise capacity building

for journalists when she returned to Lagos. That commitment resulted in the first batch of the programme in February 2026, when 56 journalists were trained in collaboration with the organisation. The journalists, alongside their family members and dependants, were given one year of free health insurance coverage by LASHMA. A second batch was subsequently trained in August. The message from the agency was clear: residents cannot make informed decisions about health insurance if they do not understand what they are paying for. Also speaking, the Coordinating Director, Lagos State Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mr. Adesegun Ogundeji, said the mandatory nature of ILERA EKO applied to everyone living in the state, irrespective of their state of origin or nationality. “Your role goes beyond mere reporting events, you help shape public understanding and influence the choices people make,” he said. Ogundeji said the applicable premium was N15,000 for an individual, N55,000 for a family of four and N80,000 for a family of six. He listed services covered under the scheme to include consultations, specialist care, dental and eye care, selected surgeries, treatment of common illnesses such as malaria and typhoid, management of hypertension and diabetes, emergency services, childhood healthcare, medical tests and prescribed drugs.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, t T H I S D AY

MARKET NEWS A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return. An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. GUIDE TO DATA: Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 13th October 2026, unless otherwise stated.

Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or ETF are bought by investors. Bid Price: The price at which Investors redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF. Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total return an investor would have earned on his investment. Money Market Funds report Yield while others report Year- to-date Total Return. NAV: Is value per share of the real estate assets held by a REIT on a specific date.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD aaml@afrinvest.com Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 818 885 6757 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Afrinvest Equity Fund 893.29 899.69 44.32% Nigeria International Debt Fund 428.16 428.16 -11.58% Afrinvest Plutus Fund 100.00 100.00 15.72% Afrinvest Dollar Fund 119.58 119.58 6.20% Afrinvest Halal Fund(AHF) 117.54 117.54 13.09% Web: www.alphamorgan.com, Tel: +2347018898523 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ALPHA MORGAN BALANCED FUND 3,304.57 3,327.35 50.42% AIICO CAPITAL LTD ammf@aiicocapital.com Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 16.56% AIICO Balanced Fund 9.79 9.98 24.77% AIICO Eurobond Fund 108.89 108.89 8.89% Web:www.anchoriaam.com, Tel: 08166830267; 08036814510; 08028419180 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Anchoria Money Market 100.00 100.00 17.64% Anchoria Equity Fund 1.90 1.90 13.80% Anchoria Fixed Income Fund 586.92 595.40 43.43% ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD enquiries@arminvestmentcenter.com info@anchoriaam.com Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund 1.00 1.00 16.72% ARM Discovery Balanced Fund 1.25 1.25 4.59% ARM Ethical Fund 1.46 1.46 12.65% ARM Eurobond Fund 1.31 1.31 13.28% ARM Fixed Income Fund 1.24 1.24 13.72% ARM Short Term Bond Fund 1.08 1.08 4.94% ARM Shariah Fixed Income Fund 1.07 1.07 4.18% ARM Short Term Eurobond Fund 73.27 75.48 38.35% ARM Specialized Dollar Fund 1,433.84 1,477.08 35.90% ARM Money Market Fund 146.68 151.10 40.86% AVA GLOBAL ASSET MANAGERS LIMITED info@avacapitalgroup.com Web: www.avacapitalgroup.com; Tel 08069294653 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 121.12 121.12 7.30% AVA GAM Fixed Income Dollar Fund 1,431.95 1431.95 21.85% AVA GAM Fixed Income (Naira) Fund 1.00 1.00 17.00% AVA GAM Money Market Fund AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 0.00 0.00 0.00 AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 AXA Mansard Money Market Fund CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED info@capitalexpressassetandtrust.com Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 3.07 3.07 15.12% CEAT Fixed Income Fund 9.15 9.37 65.39% Capital Express Balanced Fund(Formerly: Union Trustees Mixed Fund) CARDINALSTONE ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfunds@cardinalstone.com Web: www.cardinalstoneassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 (1) 710 0433 4 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 1.15 1.15 12.97% CardinalStone Fixed Income Alpha Fund 1.23 1.23 4.63% CardinalStone Dollar Fund 2.90 2.94 62.12% CardinalStone Equity Fund 1.79 1.80 47.50% CardinalStone Balanced Fund 1.00 1.00 19.73% CardinalStone Money Market Fund CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapel Hill Denham Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 18.09% Nigeria Bond Fund 115.85 116.75 7.08% Nigeria Dollar Income Fund 1.07 1.08 -1.19% 73.37 73.79 55.08% Paramount Equity Fund CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 16.43% 118.00 118.00 11.88% Cordros Fixed Income Fund 131.59 131.59 14.30% Cordros Halal Fixed Income Fund Cordros Dollar Fund ($) 118.93 118.93 6.11% Cordros Milestone Fund 308.37 310.54 37.63% CORONATION ASSETS MANAGEMENT investment@coronationam.com Web:www.coronationam.com, Tel: 012366215 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coronation Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 19.74% Coronation Balanced Fund 2.78 2.83 40.82% Coronation Fixed Income Fund 1.64 1.64 11.58% Coronation Dollar Fund 1.10 1.10 12.76% Coronation Premium Fixed Income Fund 1.01 1.01 2.80% CFG Asset Management Limited Portfoliomanagers@cfgafrica.com Web:https://cfgafrica.com/cfg-am/ , Tel: 02018870020 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CFG Ethical Fund 1,298.42 1,298.42 20.89% CFG AM Naira Fixed Income Fund 1,117.44 1,117.44 15.07% CFG AM Fixed Income Dollar Fund 107.67 107.65 6.36% mutualfundng@ecobank.com EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 EDC Nigeria Balanced Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 EDC Nigeria Halal Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 EMERGING AFRICA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@emergingafricafroup.com Web:www.emergingafricagroup.com/emerging-africa-asset-management-limited/, Tel: 08039492594 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Emerging Africa Money Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Emerging Africa Bond Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Emerging Africa Balanced Diversity Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Emerging Africa Eurobond Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Emerging Africa Halal Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 FBNQUEST ASSETS MANAGEMENT LIMITED invest@fbnquest.com Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn First Asset Money Market Fund 100 100 16.02% First Asset Bond Fund 1805.53 1805.53 10.79% First Asset Dollar Fund 135.63 135.61 7.77% First Asset Halal Fund 157.9 157.9 14.21% First Asset Specialised Dollar Fund 132.49 132.51 8.06% First Asset Balanced Fund 610.76 615.9 42.60% First Asset Smart Beta Equity Fund 589.89 597.7 30.13% First Asset Blended Dollar Fund 114.93 114.93 2.81% FCMB ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED FCMBAMhelpdesk@fcmb.com Web: www.fcmbassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FCMBAM Money Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 FCMBAM USD Bond Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 FCMBAM Debt Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 FCMBAM Equity Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 FCMB-TLG Private Debt Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 FSL ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED Adeniran.Daniel@fsl.ng Web: https://www.fsl.ng/asset-management ; Tel: +2348062727759 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FSL Money Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 FSL Euro Bond 0.00 0.00 0.00 FIRST ALLY ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED blossom.omojughare@ﬁrst-ally.com Web: https://ﬁrst-allyasset.com/ ; Tel: +2348023217850 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FAAM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 17.69%

FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coral income fund 5,148.57 5,148.57 10.63% Coral money market fund 100.00 100.00 16.31% FSDH HALAL FUND 1,463.11 1,463.11 13.32% FSDH dollar fund 1.41 1.41 6.83% Coral Balanced Fund 14,513.05 14,618.75 38.22% HILLCREST CAPITAL MANAGEMENT dabbey@hillcrestcapmgt.com Web: https://hillcrestcapmgt.com/; Tel: +2348075144540, 0214540094 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Hillcrest Balanced Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 LOTUS CAPITAL LTD ﬁncon@lotuscapitallimited.com Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn LOTUS HALAL FIXED INCOME FUND 1,299.99 1,299.99 12.65% LOTUS HALAL INVESTMENT FUND 3.84 3.91 38.58% LOTUS HALAL EQUITY EXCHANGE TRADED FUND 95.61 105.68 63.06% LOTUS WAQF ENDOWMENT FUND 1,547.07 1,547.07 23.22% MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD info@meristemwealth.com Web: www.meristemwealth.com/funds/; Tel: +2348028496012 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Meristem Equity Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Meristem Value ETF 0.00 0.00 0.00 Meristem Growth ETF 0.00 0.00 0.00 Meristem Fixed Income Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Meristem Dollar Income Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Meristem Money Market Mutual Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 MANGO ASSET MANAGEMENT jetadafe@mangoam.com Web:https://mangoam.com/; Tel: +234 7030839517 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Mango Naira Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 16.54% NORRENBERGER INVESTMENT AND CAPITAL MANAGEMENT LIMITED

enquiries@norrenberger.com

Web: www.norrenberger.com, Tel: +234 (0) 908 781 2026 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Norrenberger Money Market Fund (NMMF) 100.00 100.00 18% Norrenberger Islamic Fund (NIF) 107.53 107.53 18% NORRENBERGER DOLLAR FUND (NDF)-----($) 104.37 104.37 11% NORRENBERGER TURBO FUND (NTF)-----(N) 108.85 108.85 14% PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD info@pacassetmanagement.com Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Balanced Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 PACAM Fixed Income Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 PACAM Money Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 PACAM Equity Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 PACAM EuroBond Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 SCM CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED info@scmcapitalng.com Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn The Frontier Fund 338.79 347.26 102.3% SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD investments@sfsnigeria.com Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS Fixed Income Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 SFS REIT 0.00 0.00 0.00 UH REIT/SFS 0.00 0.00 0.00 UPDC REIT 0.00 0.00 0.00 STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD assetmanagement@stanbicibtc.com Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund Stanbic IBTC Enhanced Short-Term Fixed Income Fund Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund Stanbic IBTC Imaan Fund Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund SIAML Pension ETF 40 Stanbic IBTC Aggressive Fund Stanbic IBTC Conservative Fund

STL ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED Web: WWW.STLASSETMGT.COM; Tel: 8136115170 Fund Name STL MONEY MARKET FUND STL BALANCED FUND STL DOLLAR FUND

UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 01-6317876 Fund Name United Capital Money Market Fund United Capital Sukuk Fund United Capital Fixed Income Fund United Capital Nigerian Eurobond Fund United Capital Global Fixed Income Fund United Capital Stable Income Fund United Capital Equity Fund United Capital Balanced Fund United Capital Wealth for Women Fund United Capital Children Investment Fund VETIVA FUND MANAGERS LTD Web: www.vetiva.com; Tel: +234 1 453 0697 Fund Name Vetiva Banking Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Consumer Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Grifﬁn 30 Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Money Market Fund Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva USD Fixed Income Fund QUANTUM ZENITH ASSET MANAGEMENT & INVESTMENTS LTD Web: www.quantumzenith.com.ng; Tel: +234 1-2784219 Fund Name Zenith Balanced Strategy Fund Zenith Income Fund Zenith Income Fund Zenith Money Market Fund ZEDCREST INVESTMENT MANAGER LIMITED Web: www.zedcrestwealth.com; Tel: +2348075881240 Fund Name Zedcrest Money Market Fund Zedcrest Fixed Inocme Fund Zedcrest Dollar Fund Zedcrest Equity Fund REITS Fund Name SFS REIT UPDC REIT

1.00 405.55 264.98 1.72 163.08 184.01 13,681.30 506.20 6.83 1,468.77 61,455.65 729.06 17,535.15 11,305.24

1.00 405.55 264.98 1.72 163.08 184.01 13,801.65 514.83 6.93 1,488.43 62,262.98 741.63 17,736.67 11,357.17

16.02% 6.86% 2.83% 2.93% 13.05% 13.62% 41.83% 62.87% 52.89% 3232.74% -26.73% 76.82% 38.00% 20.47%

jemenike@stlassetmgt.com Bid Price 0.00 0.00 0.00

Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 unitedcapitalplcgroup.com

Bid Price 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 funds@vetiva.com

Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn N90.42 N90.62 47.37% N25.42 N25.52 56.45% N40.36 N40.46 3.23% N104.33 N104.53 63.01% N149.73 N151.73 3.62% 1.00 1.00 17.42% 1.16 1.16 0.31% service@quantumzenithasset.com.ng Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 46.30 46.84 36.44% 54.00 54.53 35.06% 33.40 33.40 10.21% 1.00 1.00 15.76% investmentoperations@zedcrest.com Bid Price N1.00 N1.49 1.57 2.05

Offer Price N1.00 N1.49 1.57 2.07

Yield / T-Rtn 18.61% 11.44% 6.96% 101.03%

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

11.00

0.00%

0.00

0.00%

The value of investments and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance is a guide and not an indication of future returns. Fund prices published in this edition are also available on each fund manager’s website and FMAN’s website at www.fman.com.ng. Fund prices are supplied by the operator of the relevant fund and are published for information purposes only.

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026

BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

Ecobank, CIPS Partner to Strengthen China-Africa Financial Corridor Kayode Tokede Ecobank Group has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Cross-Border Interbank Payment System (CIPS) to strengthen Renminbi (RMB) payment connectivity between China and Africa. The signing ceremony was held in the presence of the Minister of Finance and Budget of the Republic of Togo, on the sidelines of the official visit to China by the President of the Council of the Republic of Togo, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, underscoring the strategic importance of strengthening economic and financial

ties between China, Togo and the African continent. This milestone marks a further step in Ecobank’s long-term strategy to connect businesses and financial institutions in China with its pan-African banking network spanning 34 African markets. China remains Africa’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching approximately $348 billion in 2025. Commenting on the announcement, Chief Executive Officer of Ecobank Group, Jeremy Awori, in a statement said: “China-Africa trade has evolved into one of the world’s most dynamic economic corridors. As trade

relationships deepen and investment flows increase, supporting financial infrastructure must evolve accordingly. “Our partnership with CIPS strengthens the connectivity between China’s RMB payment ecosystem and Ecobank’s extensive African network. It enhances our ability to support importers, exporters and businesses seeking to operate across Africa and China more efficiently and with greater confidence. Ultimately, our objective is to make Africa more accessible for businesses operating from China while helping African companies engage more effectively with Chinese markets.”

Franck Muller CEO Deepens Engagement with Luxury Watch Collectors Ejiofor Alike The Chief Executive Officer of Franck Muller, Mr. Nicholas Rudaz, has appealed to the Nigerian luxury community to embrace Franck Muller luxury wrist watches for the strong individual identity it confered on its users. Rudaz made this appeal weekend during his first official visit to Nigeria that enabled him to participate in a multi-day programme that was hosted by Polo Luxury across Lagos State and Abuja. He said that Nigeria was an important market in the African luxury conversation, adding that the visit provided an opportunity to engage directly with collectors and clients rather than experiencing the market only from a distance. “Franck Muller has built its identity around technical ingenuity combined with an unconventional approach to design. The maison is recognised for complicated movements, distinctive cases, expressive numerals and bold use of colour. Its

philosophy has never been simply to follow established conventions,” Rudaz said. He explained that Franck Muller was known as the “Master of Complications” as its expressions reflected the maison’s history of developing highly complicated mechanical watches. He said: “It also represents a broader culture of challenging what is technically and creatively possible in watchmaking. Examples available for discussion include: The Crazy Hours, the tri-axial Revolution 3, and the Aeternitas Mega, which the supplied Franck Muller material described as comprising 36 complications and 1,483 components. “Crazy Hours captures the playful side of serious watchmaking. Its numerals appear in an unconventional order while its jumpinghour mechanism still indicates the correct time. It demonstrates that mechanical sophistication and creativity do not have to be mutually exclusive.” Responding, the Chief Executive Officer of Polo

Limited, Mr. John Obayuwana, said that Rudaz’s visit was a significant moment in Polo’s relationship with Franck Muller and created rare direct access between the maison’s leadership and Nigerian collectors. He added that the visit also reinforced Polo’s strategic role in connecting Nigeria’s luxury community with leading international maisons. Obayuwana said that luxury retail should extend beyond transactions, emphasising that collectors increasingly wanted access, knowledge, storytelling and meaningful experiences. On her part, the Executive Director of Polo Limited, Ms. Jennifer Obayuwana, said that clients were getting the opportunity to engage directly with the CEO of an important Swiss watch maison, listen to the brand story first-hand and experience the collections in a more intimate environment. She said: “A greater appreciation of the creativity and craftsmanship behind the Maison, and the understanding that Polo can provide not only access to exceptional timepieces but also access to the world surrounding them.”

BIC Recognised for Decade-long Brand Legacy BIC Nigeria has received two major honors at the 2026 Edge Awards, winning the Edge Outstanding Legacy Brand Award of the Decade (Corporate) and the Edge Outstanding Legacy Brand Award (Shaving Razor). The awards, presented at Marketing Edge’s Edge Awards Night on Friday, September 25, in Lagos, recognize the brand’s sustained equity and performance in Nigeria’s fast-moving consumer goods sector over the past decade,

alongside the continued relevance of its shaving razor brand to Nigerian consumers. The double recognition reflects the longevity of BIC in Nigeria and the trust its brands have earned across generations of consumers. It also highlights the company’s focus on delivering products that meet everyday needs while evolving with changing consumer expectations. “We are proud of these awards and thankful to

Marketing Edge,” said Anthony Amahwe, General Manager, BIC Nigeria. “For us, a legacy is built through the trust people place in our products, day after day. These awards are a reflection of the work of our teams and partners, as well as the loyalty of consumers who have made BIC part of their everyday lives. They encourage us to keep building brands that remain relevant to consumers and the changing needs of the market.”

MARKET INDICATORS MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS (MILLION NAIRA) October 2025

Month

Money Supply (M3)

119,037,577.07

-- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors

9,291.49

Money Supply (M2)

119,028,285.58

Quasi Money

79,681,419.97

-- Narrow Money (M1)

39,346,865.60

---- Currency Outside Banks

4,646,794.28

---- Demand Deposits

34,700,071.33

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

34,804,442.84

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

84,233,134.23

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

99,199,655.08

---- Credit to Government (Net)

24,787,980.96

---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA

0.00

---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA)

0.00

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

74,411,674.12

--Other Assets Net

2,603,854.03

Reserve Money (Base Money)

36,641,142.21

--Currency in Circulation

5,057,881.01

--Banks Reserves

31,583,261.21

--Special Intervention Reserves

284,361.95

˾ ÙßÜÍÏ ̋

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month

October 2025

Inter-Bank Call Rate

October 2025

Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR) Monetary Policy Rate (MPR)

27.00

Treasury Bill Rate

15.07

Savings Deposit Rate

7.43

1 Month Deposit Rate

11.37

3 Months Deposit Rate

11.32

6 Months Deposit Rate

11.12

12 Months Deposit Rate

11.78

Prime Lending rate

18.89

Maximum Lending Rate

29.56

NSE MARKET INDEX CAP

0.75%(52%YoY)

Index

0.9% (29%Y/D) ˾ ÙØÏÞËÜã ÙÖÓÍã ËÞÏ ̋ Ͱ͵ϱ

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT 24TH NOVEMBER , 2025

The price of OPEC basket of twelve crudes stood at $63.14 a barrel on Monday, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zaﬁro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026

MARKET NEWS

Dangote Refinery IPO: WayvePay Withdraws Promotional Materials After SEC Warning Kaode Tokede

Following the Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC) warning to the investing public , Wayve Microfinance Bank Limited, yesterday said it has withdrawn the relevant promotional materials and removed the associated link regarding Dangote Petroleum Refinery’s N2.15 trillion Initial Public Offering (IPO)

from its mobile application. The SEC had warned the public against making capitalmarket investments through WayvePay, stating that the platform is not registered to offer such services. The SEC said WayvePay was “not registered by the Commission to solicit investments from the public or operate in any capacity within the Nigerian capital market”. WayvePay in its response,

P R I C E S MAIN BOARD

F O R DEALS

stated that it takes the SEC’s communication and the concerns raised seriously and remains committed to engaging constructively with the Commission and other relevant regulatory authorities to address the issues and clarify the circumstances surrounding the matter. Wayve Microfinance Bank in a statement obtained by THISDAY explained that it is a financial institution licensed by the Central

S E C U R I T I E S MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

Bank of Nigeria (CBN), with eligible deposits insured by the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), subject to applicable coverage limits and terms. “The Bank considers it important to clarify its regulatory status and distinguish its licensed banking operations from the specific matters raised in connection with the IPO. “Regarding the IPO-related arrangement, the Bank wishes

T R A D E D

VALUE TRADED ( N )

MAIN BOARD

A S

O F

to clarify that its involvement was undertaken in partnership with Coronation Securities under a duly executed agreement between the parties. “Under this arrangement, the WayvePay digital banking platform was linked to Coronation Securities to facilitate the relevant IPO-related activities, with subscription funds directed to Coronation Securities rather than directly to Wayve Microfinance Bank Limited.

O CTO B E R DEALS

“Following the SEC’s communication, the Bank has withdrawn the relevant promotional materials and removed the associated link from its mobile application. Since the publication of the promotional materials, no investors has subscribed for shares in the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals IPO through the WayvePay platform,” the company said in statement.

1 4 / 2 6

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N)

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026

GAMINGWEEK Edited by NSEOBONG OKON-EKONG | gamingweek1117@gmail.com | Tel: 08114495324

Lagos Cracks Down on Unlicensed Mobile Betting, Orders Telecoms to Comply in 30 Days Nseobong Okon-Ekong reports that the directive could affect how consumers access gaming services through USSD, SMS, mobile applications and carrier billing, as the regulator moves to enforce licensing and tax compliance across the sector.

Bashir Are, Chief Executive Oﬃcer, Lagos State Lottery and Gaming Authority

onsumers using mobile phones to access betting, lottery and gaming services in Lagos State could see unlicensed platforms suspended as the state gaming regulator gives telecommunications operators and value-added service providers 30 days to verify operators’ licences, disclose transaction records and support the recovery of outstanding gaming taxes. In a public notice, the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA) directed mobile network operators,

Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of NCC

telecommunications companies and VAS aggregators to stop onboarding gaming businesses without valid state authorisation and to suspend existing services operating without the required approval. Under the notice, affected intermediaries must verify that gaming operators using their platforms possess valid licences or authorisations issued or recognised by the LSLGA. They are also required to stop onboarding unlicensed operators and suspend existing gaming services that lack the necessary approval.

Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communication and Digital Economy

The LSLGA said the directive was issued pursuant to the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority Law 2021, which empowers it to regulate and control lottery and gaming activities in the state. Clarifying the distinction between telecommunications licensing and gaming regulation, the LSLGA stated that licences, authorisations or approvals issued by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for telecommunications or VAS activities do not constitute permission to conduct or

Africa Must Address Gambling Harm Before It Becomes Entrenched This week’s feature by Ikenna Bede is a collaborative effort between GAMINGWEEK and Gamble Aware NG through its Safer Gaming for Africa newsletter, highlighting conversations and insights shaping responsible gambling and player protection across the continent. As gambling becomes increasingly embedded in everyday digital life across Africa, the industry faces a growing challenge: gambling may be becoming easier to recognise as entertainment, but harder to recognise when it becomes harmful. In more established gambling markets, operators and regulators have developed systems designed to identify behavioural signals associated with gambling harm before they escalate into more serious problems. African markets, at this stage in their trajectory, remain largely reactionary. Michael Zhang, a gambling psychologist and the founder and CEO of Incremental, strongly advises against allowing this approach to become the norm. “I’d be careful about waiting for gambling disorder rates or treatment numbers to tell us there’s a problem,” Zhang stated. “Those are important measures, but they’re also relatively late measures. By the time someone appears in a treatment service, a lot may already have happened.” The challenge is partly rooted in how gambling itself has changed. In the past, land-based entry points came with the friction of physically travelling and making the deliberate effort to place a bet. In today’s digital world, that friction has eroded. At the same time, widely

Zhang publicised winnings have reduced some of the inhibition around gambling. For many, gambling is increasingly seen as a potential source of income. Financial pressures, financial illiteracy and poor financial decisions can further

change how people perceive gambling. A wager begins to look like an additional stream of income, and with every win or loss, the behaviour can become reinforced. The constant bombardment of gambling marketing has also helped shift its place in everyday life. Betting is now woven into sport, entertainment and increasingly, the digital spaces people occupy every day. Zhang believes this changing perception can make harmful gambling harder to recognise, particularly as newer forms of wagering blur the distinction between gambling, analysis and investment. “Prediction markets blur those boundaries because almost anything in the news can become something to bet on: an election, an interest rate decision, an awards show. The same information you were already consuming becomes something you can put money behind,” Zhang said. He added, “That changes the story someone can tell themselves about what they’re doing. If I spend hours researching an election, studying polling data and then putting money behind my prediction, I may not experience myself in the same way as someone placing a bet on a football game. The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

facilitate gaming operations in Lagos. It restated that using a telecommunications operator, VAS aggregator, payment channel, carrier-billing platform or other technological intermediary does not remove the obligation to obtain the appropriate gaming licence. The notice also invokes the Supreme Court judgment delivered on November 22, 2024, in Attorney-General of Lagos State & Ors. v. Attorney General of the Federation & Ors., Suit No. SC/1/2008. According to the LSLGA, the judgment affirmed that lottery and games of chance fall within the residual legislative competence of states, subject to the applicable constitutional position concerning the Federal Capital Territory. Consequently, gaming services offered to, accessible by or conducted in relation to customers in Lagos must comply with the state’s licensing requirements, irrespective of the telecommunications channel through which they are delivered. A major component of the directive is the recovery of outstanding fiscal obligations from operators that provided gaming services through telecommunications or VAS platforms during the period beginning November 22, 2024, and ending on the date of the notice. The LSLGA said affected operators must account for and remit all gaming taxes, statutory levies, Good Causes Levy and other applicable payments due under the law and relevant regulations. Outstanding liabilities will be assessed using verified transaction and revenue data, with applicable penalties and interest added where required. Operators must regularise their licensing status and settle assessed arrears within the stipulated compliance period. The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

THISDAY • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026

NEWS

PUSHING THE BLUE ECONOMY DEBATE...

L-R: Chairman of Baze University Inaugural Lecture Committee, Prof Bala Mohammed; Registrar, Mallam Mahmud Ahmad Lawi; Vice Chancellor, Miva Open University, Prof Tayo Arulogun; Vice Chancellor, Baze University, Prof. Abiodun Adeniyi; Professorial Inaugural Lecturer, Prof. Pauline Ebere Onyeuwku; Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof Osita Agbu; and Special Adviser Finance, Baze University, Mallam Umar Dalhatu, at Baze University 8th Inaugural Lecture on Blue Economy and Blue Entrepreneurship: Popular Error and Unpopular Truth in Abuja on Tuesday PHOTO: KINGSLEY ADEBOYE

Gov Diri: Donald Duke Wrong on Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road Project Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has faulted the criticism of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project by former governor of Cross River State, Mr. Donald Duke. Duke had said in an interview on Arise Television that the project was an impossibility due to swampy terrain. The 750-kilometre highway project being constructed by the federal government traverses nine coastal states, including Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River. The former governor had stated regarding the road project, “The Lagos-Calabar Road is unbuildable. You cannot even go through Bayelsa. Bayelsa is swamp. Even Yenagoa, the capital, is swamp. You will probably have to build about 100 or 200 bridges to go through those swamps.” Responding to Duke’s criticism, the Bayelsa governor, in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, expressed disappointment that a former governor of a South-south state would criticise the project due to politics and not based on fact or reality. Diri said Duke’s reference to Bayelsa and its difficult, swampy terrain was out of sync with the reality about development in the state. He contended that if Duke was

in tune with happenings in Bayelsa, where his administration had built roads and bridges across swamps and the mangroves, he would have known that the coastal road project was possible. The governor stated, “I have seen the trending video clip of the former governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Donald Duke, on an Arise Television programme. “To say the least, I feel disappointed that former Governor Duke, who is from our region, made such

comment. Clearly, he is not abreast of current developments in road construction and infrastructure development in our state. “I want to believe that his criticism had political colourations and he did not consider the significance of a such a project to our region.” Diri explained, “In Bayelsa, we have successfully constructed dual carriage roads and bridges in similar terrain and our state is better for it. The Nembe-Brass road, the Sagbama-Ekeremor-Agge road,

and the Yenagoa-Oporoma road, which are major causeways in our three senatorial districts, are all in swampy terrain. “Ditto for the 630-metre bridge across River Nun at Angiama community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, which is one of the longest in the region. “Dualised roads in the New Yenagoa City, the dualised Glory Drive Phase 1, 2 and 3 were built through the forest and swamps. Yenagoa is not what Duke described it.

istration of President Bola Tinubu that eventually undertook the project after many years of presenting the request to previous governments at the centre. Diri said that was one of his reasons for joining All Progressives Congress (APC), as the interest of his people was paramount. He cautioned against politicising development during election seasons, saying the consequences are often borne by the people that politicians seek their votes.

Centre Charges National Assembly on Speedy Passage of ACJA Amendment Bill Commends President Tinubu for sponsoring bill Alex Enumah in Abuja The National Assembly has been called upon to give speedy and thorough consideration to the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) Amendment Bill, currently before it. Besides the federal lawmakers, states as well as other institutions have also been charged to ensure the application of the National Minimum Standards (NMS), to enhance justice delivery in the

country. The call by the Centre for Socio-Legal Studies (CSLS), was predicated on the immense benefits its passage will bring upon the country’s justice sector. Meanwhile, the centre has commended President Bola Tinubu for sponsoring the bill through the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation. Speaking at an event marking the closure of the CSLS’ project on “Improving Criminal Justice

Administration through the National Minimum Standards (NMS), implemented under the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme and funded by the European Union, with support from the International IDEA, President of the Centre for Socio-Legal Studies (CSLS), Professor Yemi Akinseye-George, SAN, disclosed that the NMS gave the ACJA and related laws a clear, measurable yardstick for the police, courts, prosecutors, legal

BAECC Wins as Court Strikes Out Suit Over Benin–Asaba Expressway Construction, Afﬁrms PPP Project Continuity The Federal High Court in Abuja has struck out a suit filed by the Society of Public Interest Lawyers in Nigeria (SPI-LAW) over the condition of the Benin–Asaba Expressway following the execution of remedial works by the Benin-Asaba Expressway Concession Company Limited (BAECC). The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/ CS/2171/2026, was struck out by Justice Inyang Ekwo after SPILAW informed the court that the Concessionaire had commenced remedial works on the strategic highway, and the initial traffic congestion had subsequently eased The Benin-Asaba Expressway

“So, he is wrong. The LagosCalabar coastal road is buildable and possible.” Diri stated that the project was critical to unlocking development in the states and riverine communities along its pathway. According to him, the coastal highway is also very dear to the Ijaw ethnic nationality as it is one of the projects that the Ijaw National Congress (INC), even from its inception in the 1990s, clamoured for. He said it was only the admin-

Concession Company Limited (BAECC) has always rejected claims that it failed to carry out remedial works on the BeninAsaba Expressway, sources from the Company have always maintained that it continued palliative interventions on critical sections of the highway. According to the Concessionaire, those measures reduced congestion and improved vehicular movement through some of the sections most affected by the congestion. Following this ruling, this assertion has now been validated and allows BAECC to continue with the ongoing construction work along this vital corridor.

At the proceedings, counsel to SPI-LAW, J. O. Aikpokpo-Martins, informed the court that the plaintiff had filed a notice of discontinuance dated October 12, 2026, in view of the development. The plaintiff subsequently urged the court to strike out the suit, an application that was not opposed by counsel to the other parties being the Attorney General of the Federation, the Minister of Works, and the Concessionaire. The Attorney-General of the Federation and the Minister of Works, listed as the second and third defendants, were represented by A. A. Raji, SAN. The legal team representing

the Concessionaire was led by Wole Olanipekun, SAN. SPI-LAW instituted the action on September 11, 2026, seeking judicial intervention over the condition of the expressway. Among the reliefs sought were the cancellation or termination of the expressway’s concession agreement, an order directing the Federal Government to take appropriate control of the road, and urgent rehabilitation of damaged sections. The organisation also sought orders relating to traffic management and other interim measures pending comprehensive rehabilitation of the highway.

aid providers and correctional services. The law professor explained that the CSLS project was meant to close the gap between what Nigeria’s criminal justice laws promises and what happens in practice. “We are here to account for what has been done, show what has changed, and point to what remains to be done”, he said. Prof. Akinseye-George noted that over the life of the project, CSLS worked with the various criminal justice sector institutions in seven focal states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to apply the standards in daily practice. He identified some of the key results of the project to include law reform which was achieved while working with the Federal Ministry of Justice and other stakeholders, a collaboration that led to the conclusion the final draft of the ACJA Amendment Bill, now before the National Assembly. He said: “It is now an Executive Bill, sponsored by the President through the Office of the AttorneyGeneral of the Federation.” Prof. Akinseye-George said the project also entailed learning and capacity building through training of trainers’ workshops. He said workshops and related

trainings on emerging trends on ACJA/ACJL developments were held for over 1,700 justice-sector actors and stakeholders on the NMS and current developments in criminal justice administration. Prof. Akinseye-George added that in the course of executing the project, inspection visits were paid to courts, correctional centres, ministries of justice, police commands, the Legal Aid Council and the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committees (ACJMCs) to obtain first-hand evidence of compliance and gaps. He said “Our impact stories, captured in the End-of-Project Report, show what the standards mean for suspects, defendants, victims and the officials who serve them. “Throughout the project, we shared progress and learning through our social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, X and LinkedIn) and the NMS websites. “We thank the European Union for funding the RoLAC Programme, International IDEA for its partnership and support, the Federal Ministry of Justice and other criminal justice institutions, the focal-state institutions, our partners, and the media, whose reporting kept these issues in public view. “Finally, we thank the amazing project team for their hard work and dedication to this project,” the CSLS President said.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026 • THISDAY

NEWS

WOOING INVESTORS AT IMF/WORLD BANK...

L-R: Deputy Governor (Economic Policy), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Philip Ikeazor; Director-General, Debt Management Oﬃce (DMO), Ms. Patience Oniha; CBN Governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele; Nigerian Ambassador to the Royal Kingdom of Thailand, Bello Dogon-Daji Haliru; Deputy Governor (Operations), CBN, Ms. Emem Usoro; and Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Finance, Mr. Raymond Omachi, after an investment forum organised by the Nigerian delegation at the ongoing Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank holding in Bangkok, Thailand, yesterday

Alleged Drug Trafﬁcking: KC Luxury Challenges Court’s Property Order, Cites Fair Hearing Violation Wale Igbintade Businessman and social media influencer Afolabi Michael Kazeem, popularly known as KC Luxury, has challenged the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court in Lagos over an interim order preserving his properties, alleging that the proceedings leading to the order violated his constitutional right to fair hearing. Kazeem, who is standing trial alongside two others over an alleged

184.5kg cocaine trafficking operation and money laundering, is asking the court to strike out the proceedings relating to the property order, vacate the September 25, 2026, order and direct the immediate release of the affected assets. At Wednesday’s proceedings, counsel to the defendants, Chief Emefo Etudo, told Justice Musa Kakaki that the defence had filed an application challenging the court’s jurisdiction, arguing that the issue should be determined before other

applications relating to the matter. Etudo explained that he had only become aware of the publication of the interim order a few days earlier and had to urgently file the application. “My Lord, I was shown the publication about three days ago and had to rush to file our objection on jurisdiction,” he said. The lawyer argued that the prosecution could not proceed with its request for a report of compliance with the order while the defence

was challenging the legal basis upon which it was made. He further contended that the order was obtained without giving his client an opportunity to be heard, contrary to the provisions of Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees the right to fair hearing. According to him, the defence was seeking to establish that the circumstances surrounding the grant of the order raised fundamental questions about the court’s jurisdiction. Responding, counsel for the

NHRC Records 338,810 Rights Complaints, Raises Alarm Over Child Abuse, Civic Freedom Violations Michael Olugbode in Abuja The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) recorded 338,810 complaints of alleged human rights violations across its offices nationwide in September 2026, an increase of 40,867, or approximately 14 per cent, over the 297,943 complaints received in August, as the commission raised concerns over insecurity, custodial deaths, violence against women and children, and threats to civic freedoms. The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, disclosed this in Abuja on Wednesday while presenting the September 2026 Human Rights Situation Dashboard, warning that the figures

underscored the urgent need for stronger protection of fundamental rights, effective investigations and accountability for alleged violations. Ojukwu said Nigeria continued to face serious human rights challenges, particularly concerning the rights to life, personal liberty and human dignity, security of persons and the protection of vulnerable populations. He stressed that the increase in complaints could reflect improved public awareness and access to the Commission’s services, but also placed greater responsibility on institutions mandated to investigate allegations, provide remedies and prevent recurring abuses. “Behind every complaint is a person, a family or a community

whose rights may have been violated,” he said, insisting that the ultimate measure of progress must be the action taken to address the grievances documented. The Commission expressed particular concern over continuing reports of mass abductions in Niger State, where families and communities remained distressed over the prolonged captivity of their loved ones. Ojukwu called on security agencies to intensify efforts to protect affected communities, rescue abducted persons and ensure that perpetrators were brought to justice. He also raised concerns over reports that 37 persons died in custody following operations against artisanal mining activities in Niger

State, describing the circumstances surrounding the deaths as raising serious questions about the right to life, the prohibition of torture and the obligation of law enforcement agencies to protect detainees. Although he acknowledged the federal government’s decision to initiate an investigation into the incident, the NHRC chief called for a thorough, independent and transparent process to establish the facts, determine responsibility where wrongdoing was established and provide appropriate remedies to affected families.

National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Abu Ibrahim, told the court that the matter had been scheduled for a report of compliance with the directives issued on September 25. He said the court had granted a preservative order following an ex parte application by the prosecution and directed the publication of the order in a national newspaper. The matter was subsequently adjourned for the prosecution to report compliance with the directive. However, Etudo urged the court to consider the defence’s jurisdictional challenge, maintaining the prosecution should not be allowed to proceed on the basis of an order whose validity was being contested. After listening to the parties, Justice Kakaki indicated that he would hear the application challenging the court’s jurisdiction alongside the other applications before him. The defence’s application, dated October 13, contended that Kazeem was not served with a hearing notice before the preservation order was made, thereby denying him an opportunity to oppose the application. His lawyers relied on Section 36(1) of the Constitution and judicial authorities, including Madukolu v. Nkemdilim (1962) 2 SCNLR 341, to argue that compliance with due

process is essential to the valid exercise of jurisdiction. They maintained that the alleged procedural irregularities rendered the proceedings a nullity and warranted the setting aside of the order. Beyond the jurisdictional challenge, Etudo raised concerns about Kazeem’s health, telling the court that his client was in a critical condition. “My Lord, just as a form of information to the court, the first defendant is between life and death as we speak,” he said. The lawyer alleged that Kazeem was taken to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) on Tuesday but was subsequently moved by the police to the Police Hospital. He further claimed that the defendant was experiencing serious respiratory complications. “Only the living can be tried,” Etudo added. The health concerns were also raised in an affidavit supporting the application, sworn to by Kazeem’s wife, Adepeju Afolabi. She alleged that her husband’s health had deteriorated and that he had been receiving medical attention. Attached to the affidavit was a medical report dated September 15, 2026, issued by the NDLEA medical unit at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport Command in Lagos.

FG Launches National Strategy to End Child Marriage, Says Success Measurable By Girls Kept in School

traditional institutions, religious exposes girls to early pregnancy Sorondinki in Kano leaders and community structures. and health risks, increases vulnerECOWAS Court Elects Liberian, Beninese Ahmad According to her, the 2026 theme, ability to violence and deepens The federal government has formally launched the National Strategy and “End Child Marriage and Invest intergenerational poverty. Judges as President, Vice-President Costed She added “the new costed plan Action Plan on Ending Child in Girls’ Rights,” speaks directly to Marriage in Nigeria (2025-2030) for Nigeria’s responsibility to confront provides a practical basis for identifyMichael Olugbode in Abuja

The Community Court of Justice of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has elected Justice Charlyne Brumskine of Liberia as its new President and Justice Désiré Henri Aihou of Benin Republic as Vice-President, ushering in a new leadership for the regional judicial institution. The two judges were elected on Tuesday, by the Court’s newly

constituted college of judges, following the swearing-in of five new judges on October 6 at the new headquarters of the ECOWAS Commission in Abuja. Their emergence marks the beginning of a new judicial term following the conclusion of the tenure of the outgoing college of judges, which was led by Justice Ricardo Cláudio Monteiro Gonçalves of Cape Verde. The new leadership is expected

to guide the Court’s judicial and institutional affairs as it pursues its Strategic Plan 2026–2030, known as Justice 2030, which seeks to strengthen access to justice, improve judicial efficiency, enhance institutional effectiveness and consolidate public confidence in regional justice. The other members of the new college are Justice Awa Bah of The Gambia, Justice Henrietta Uzoamaka Didigu of Nigeria and Justice Yaouza Ouro-Sama of Togo.

the North-West and North-East zones, declaring that the fight against early marriage must move from declarations to measurable results. The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Ibrahim, launched the strategy in Kano to commemorate the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child. She said Kano was a fitting choice because of its strategic influence on social, cultural and educational life in Northern Nigeria through its

poverty, exclusion from school, insecurity, harmful traditional practices and gender discrimination that push girls into early marriage. She stressed that success would not be measured by speeches and documents launched, but by the number of girls who stay in school or return to it, the number of communities that adopt protective practices, and the resources actually released. The minister noted that child marriage interrupts education,

ing financial and human resources, assigning institutional responsibilities and tracking expenditure and results, while strengthening implementation of the Child Rights Act, 2003.” Speaking at event, the representative of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Shafeeq Ur-Rehman decried the high prevalence of child marriage in Nigeria, particularly in the North-West and North-East, despite efforts to protect the rights of the girl child.

THISDAY • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026

NEWS

SPECIAL SCHOOLS INTERACTIVE QUIZ COMPETITION...

L–R: The Director, Administration and Human Resources, Lagos State Oﬃce for Disability Aﬀairs, LASODA, Mrs. Omolade Sonubi; Student from Lagos State Special School, Igbobi, 3rd Position winner, Ibrahim Quadri; Student from Atunda-Olu Special School, 2nd Position Winner, Oyenuga Pemisire; Student from Wesley School 1 for the Hearing Impaired, 1st Position Winner, Aliyah Irmiya; and Director, Medical, Rehabilitation, Mobility Aids and Appliances, LASODA, Mr. Folorunsho Viavonu, at the Special Schools Interactive Quiz Competition organised by LASODA, held at Lagos State Special School, Igbobi... recently

2027: Peter Obi Not Missing from Policy Debate, Declares Obi-Kwankwaso Coalition

Insists NDC presidential candidate has consistently presented policy alternatives Cites Obi’s positions on electricity, production, insecurity, healthcare, faults FG’s 30-day fuel price reduction

Sunday Ehigiator The Big Tent Coalition for Obi/ Kwankwaso has rejected a THISDAY report of October 14, 2026 suggesting that the presidential candidate of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, was missing from the policy debate ahead of the 2027 general election, insisting that he has consistently presented policy alternatives on critical national issues. The coalition also demanded that THISDAY give its right of reply the same front-page prominence and visibility as the newspaper’s October 14, 2026 lead story, titled, “2027 Presidential Poll: Atiku Brings Tinubu into Policy Debate, Obi Missing.” In a statement by its Director of Media and Communications, Charles Odibo, titled, “Right of Reply: THISDAY’s False Narrative on Peter Obi: Nothing Could Be Further from the Truth,” the coalition described the report as misleading and inaccurate. It said, “Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and the leading candidate in this race, has been consistently, publicly and substantively at the forefront of policy discussions

and the presentation of concrete alternatives, more than any other presidential candidate. “To suggest he is ‘missing’ from the policy debate is a distortion that does a disservice to Nigerians and to responsible journalism.” The coalition stated that Obi had consistently engaged Nigerians on critical policy issues through interviews, television appearances, and other public platforms, rather than

relying solely on press statements or political surrogates. It said, “Obi does not govern by press statements or through surrogates. He speaks directly to Nigerians on the issues that matter.” Describing him as the most interviewed presidential candidate in the history of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic, the group said he had continued to offer policy alternatives and subject himself to public scrutiny.

Sixty-four years after his father was turbaned as Tafidan Zazzau, former Chief Financial Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPC Ltd, Isiaka Abdulrazaq, has been confirmed as the new Tafidan Yamman Zazzau. The Emir of Zazzau, His Highness, Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, approved the appointment in a letter dated October 7, 2026 signed by the Magatakardan Zazzau, Malam Yusuf Abubakar Hayat. The Emirate Council said the title recognizes Abdulrazaq’s contributions to peace-building,

Obi’s focus, according to the coalition, remained ending persistent electricity shortages and making power supply a driver of production and industrialisation. On the economy, the group said Obi had consistently called for a transition from a consumption-driven economy to a production-based system through investment in agriculture, manufacturing, solid minerals, and value addition.

It also listed targeted incentives for productive sectors, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, and the removal of structural bottlenecks that made local production uncompetitive among his proposed measures. “He has repeatedly stated that leadership must measure success by what the nation produces, not merely what it consumes or borrows,” the coalition said.

US Consulate Honours RMD, Kunle Afolayan, Six Others for Strengthening HollywoodNollywood Link, Posthumously Honours Olu Jacobs for Driving Global Nollywood Expansion Sunday Ehigiator The United States Consulate General in Lagos has honoured celebrated Nigerian actor Richard Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, awardwinning filmmaker Kunle Afolayan and six other creative industry leaders for their contributions to strengthening professional and commercial ties between Hollywood and Nollywood. The recognition was presented at an event themed, ‘Reel Connections from Hollywood to Nollywood’,

which brought together leading figures from Nigeria’s film and television industries, government officials, creative industry stakeholders and alumni of United States government exchange programmes. The event also featured the posthumous presentation of the Creative Industry Legend Award to veteran actor, Olu Jacobs, in recognition of his career spanning more than five decades and his contributions to Nigerian cinema and international filmmaking. Speaking at the event, the US

64 Years After Father, Isiaka Abdulrazaq Inherits Taﬁdan Zazzau Title Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

On electricity generation and transmission, the coalition said Obi had repeatedly advocated increased investment in generation capacity, comprehensive reforms of transmission and distribution infrastructure, and decentralisation where necessary. It added that his approach included creating an enabling environment to attract private investment while ensuring accountability and reliability in the power sector.

philanthropy and community development, and his service to the Zazzau Emirate, Kaduna State and Nigeria at large. The appointment marks the continuation of a family legacy in the Emirate, as Abdulrazaq is the son of the late Alhaji A.G.F. Abdulrazaq, SAN, a foremost lawyer who held the title of Tafidan Zazzau from 1962 until his death. The Abdulrazaq family has lived in Zaria since the mid-1950s and has maintained enduring relationships with the Zazzau Emirate. A Barewa College alumnus, Isiaka Abdulrazaq is a lawyer and finance professional who rose to Executive Director, Finance and

Accounts at NEPA/PHCN and retired as Chief Financial Officer of the NNPC in 2019. Born in Zaria, Abdulrazaq attended Barewa College, Zaria, one of Northern Nigeria’s oldest and most reputable educational institutions. His personal and family connections to Zaria reflect a longstanding relationship with the Zazzau Emirate and its people. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Abdulrazaq is widely recognised for his community engagement and philanthropic activities over the years, demonstrating a sustained commitment to the welfare and development of the people.

Consul General, Brandon Hudspeth, described Nollywood as a growing source of content, talent and investment opportunities for American companies seeking to expand their engagement with African markets. He noted that Nigerian stories and creative talents were increasingly reaching audiences in the United States and other parts of the world through streaming services and digital platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+ and YouTube. According to him, the expanding reach of Nigerian productions was creating new opportunities for collaboration, investment and access to international markets.

Hudspeth also highlighted the role of US government exchange programmes in building professional networks and strengthening relationships between Nigerian and American creative communities. He identified the American Film Showcase, Global Media Makers and the International Visitor Leadership Program as initiatives that had connected Nigerian creative professionals with American filmmakers, producers, institutions and other industry leaders. “U.S. government exchange programs are not simply about what happens during the exchange,” Hudspeth said. “Their real impact is what happens

when participants return home; the relationships they bring with them, the ideas they put into action, the creative collaborations they build, and the next generation they inspire.” The US Consul General said such relationships had helped establish professional connections that continued to generate creative collaborations beyond the duration of the exchange programmes. Paying tribute to Jacobs while presenting the posthumous award, Hudspeth described the late actor as one of Nigeria’s most celebrated screen personalities, whose career helped shape the country’s film industry and strengthen its connections with international cinema.

N’Delta Group Cautions against Attacks on PINL Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa The Niger Delta Ambassadors for Good Governance (NDAGG) has warned against what it described as unwarranted attacks on Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), saying such actions could undermine the interests of Ijaw communities benefiting from the company’s operations. The group commended PINL for its role in protecting critical national infrastructure and assets, particularly oil and gas pipelines, while contributing to employment generation, economic activities and community development across the Niger Delta.

NDAGG also said the House of Representatives Committee on Host Communities had cleared PINL and its principal, Osahon Okunbo, of allegations of ineffectiveness and financial recklessness in the management of the pipeline security contract. In a statement signed by its President, Zipamoh Moses, on behalf of the executive council and members, the organisation urged the public to disregard the allegations, insisting that the company’s contributions to pipeline security and host communities should not be overlooked. The group maintained that PINL’s operations had brought considerable benefits to Ijaw communities through

employment opportunities, economic empowerment and other forms of support. It noted that the impact of the company’s activities extended beyond individual beneficiaries to community institutions and socio-cultural organisations, including the Ijaw National Congress (INC) and the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC). According to NDAGG, the widespread benefits associated with PINL’s presence in the region made it necessary for stakeholders to carefully consider the implications of allegations capable of damaging the company’s reputation and its relationship with host communities.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026 • THISDAY

NEWS

GRAND OPENING OF EBONYLIFE PLACE LONDON...

L-R: Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka; Chief Executive Oﬃcer and founder, EbonyLife Group, Mosunmola “Mo” Abudu; and Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, at the grand opening of EbonyLife Place London, tagged: New Home for African and Black Creativity in London... recently

Dino Melaye Accuses National Assembly of Surrendering Powers to President Tinubu Says Rivers emergency rule, electoral law controversies, budget lapses expose weakening legislative oversight Sunday Aborisade in Abuja Senator Dino Melaye has accused the 10th National Assembly of weakening its constitutional independence and failing to hold President Bola Tinubu’s administration accountable,

warning that the legislature risks becoming an extension of the presidency. Melaye, who made the allegations at a press conference in Abuja, yesterday, said the handling of constitution amendments, electoral

reforms, budget implementation, security matters, and other critical national issues raised questions about the commitment of Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas to legislative oversight.

He described the 10th National Assembly as having become a “department of the Villa”, stating that the legislature is increasingly failing to exercise the institutional independence required to restrain executive power.

DHQ Reaffirms Support for All ECOWAS Security Initiatives Linus Aleke in Abuja Defence Headquarters has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting all ECOWAS security initiatives, in line with Nigeria’s commitment to regional peace, integration, and development. Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, GCOR, gave the assurance when the outgoing and incoming chairmen of ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff (CCDS) paid him a courtesy visit at the defence headquarters in Abuja.

Oluyede assured the incoming chairman of his full support to ensure a successful tenure and further strengthen the ECOWAS collective security mechanism. Speaking during the visit, the CDS thanked both chiefs for their kind remarks about Nigeria and its armed forces, describing the visit as a demonstration of solidarity and shared purpose. He called for stronger brotherhood, cohesion, and unity of purpose among ECOWAS member states.

Oluyede stressed the need for member states to set aside their differences, political divergences, and bilateral disputes to jointly confront the common existential threats facing the sub-region. According to him, security is indivisible, and no nation can secure itself alone. In a statement, Director of Defence Information, Major-General Samaila Uba, said the outgoing chairman, LieutenantGeneral Amara Idara Bangura, who was Chief of Defence Staff of Sierra Leone, informed the CDS that the two

chiefs had spent the preceding two days conducting formal handover procedures for the leadership of ECOWAS CCDS. Bangura expressed appreciation to Nigeria’s CDS for his unwavering support for the ECOWAS CCDS and the sub-regional security architecture throughout his tenure. In his remarks, the incoming chairman of ECOWAS CCDS, Vice Admiral Oumar Wade, the current Chief of Defence Staff of Senegal, thanked Nigeria’s CDS for the excellent reception and warm hospitality extended to the delegation.

In a paper, titled, “The 10th Assembly: The Pathway to Tinubu’s ‘Lifetime Presidency’,” Melaye stated that a president did not need to abolish constitutional term limits to accumulate excessive power if the institutions designed to check executive authority failed to perform their duties. He said, “A lifetime presidency does not begin with the abolition of term limits. It begins when the institutions created to restrain a president stop restraining him. “Nigeria’s constitution does not establish an elected monarchy. It establishes a presidential democracy deliberately divided among institutions so that no individual, however popular or politically powerful, exercises the authority of the Nigerian state without constitutional restraint.” According to him, the president possesses extensive executive powers, but the legislature retains independent authority over legislation, appropriation, and oversight, while the judiciary interprets the law. He stated, “Cooperation is different from submission. The president may request. Parliament

must scrutinise. The president may propose. Parliament may accept, amend or reject. The president may exercise power. Parliament must ensure that power remains within the constitution.” Melaye acknowledged that the National Assembly had passed legislation, conducted investigations, and held public hearings. However, he questioned whether it had demonstrated sufficient independence when confronted with issues affecting the exercise of presidential power. He cited the March 2025 declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, controversies surrounding the passage and gazetting of the 2025 tax laws, disagreements over the Electoral Act 2026, delayed budget implementation, rising ServiceWide Votes, and the handling of constitutional amendments. He also questioned the legislature’s response to the deaths of 37 people in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Niger State in September and the constitutional implications of Tinubu’s three-week vacation abroad.

TINUBU: I’M READY TO RENEW PACT WITH NIGERIANS, INAUGURATES 2027 CAMPAIGN COUNCIL to take the party’s record, vision and agenda to Nigerians nationwide up to the ward level. “Let the word go out from this hall to every corner of our nation. The APC is ready,” Tinubu said, adding that APC is renewing its commitment to Nigerians and the responsibilities entrusted to it as the governing party. The president stated, “We have gathered not merely to inaugurate a council. We have gathered to renew a covenant, a covenant with the Nigerian people and the historic responsibility they have thrust to us as Nigeria’s governing party. We promise we will not let them down.” He also warned all the 31 APC governors, as well as federal lawmakers and other party leaders against taking previous electoral efforts for granted, insisting that their performance in the 2027 election would determine whether they have fulfilled their assignment. He stated, “No one gets credit for an incomplete assignment. So until you deliver the next election,

until you deliver your wards, until you deliver the votes, before we can say thank you.” Tinubu pledged to support legislative efforts to increase women’s representation in the National Assembly and state-level legislatures, describing women as key mobilisers and voters. He said, “Women are the greatest mobilisers and voters. And from this hall, I assure you, the sponsorship of the bill.” He urged women to work towards securing greater representation, while promising to support efforts to increase their numbers at both national and sub-national levels. The president said, “The women deserve seats. Go and work for it, come to fruition. We will increase the number of women’s representation at both National Assembly and sub-national level. I assure you that.” Tinubu, while commenting on security, gave an assurance that state police would become a reality, signalling his support for the proposed restructuring of policing

in the country. “On security, state police will be a reality,” he declared. The president lauded the party leadership for conducting its congresses and strengthening its structures from the ward to the national level, describing APC as increasingly united. He charged party members to remain determined in their efforts to build the country, recalling measures taken during his tenure as Lagos State governor to address the threat of flooding from the Atlantic Ocean. “There is a limit, but there is no limit in daring. We dared the Atlantic Ocean, and the result is the Atlantic City in Lagos,” he said. He commended Lagos State Governor Babajide Samwo-Olu and his Deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, for their contributions to the success he recorded during his term as governor of the state, especially in taming the encroachment by the Atlantic Ocean. Speaking at the inauguration, Shettima threw political jabs at Atiku and Obi, questioning their

economic interventions and readiness to lead Nigeria ahead of next year’s general election. Criticising Obi’s reliance on foreign economic comparisons, Shettima said, “A country of over 250 million people cannot be governed through borrowed statistics and economic prescriptions detached from its peculiarities.” According to him, policies that worked in Bangladesh could not simply be replicated in Nigeria without considering differences in population, economic structures, institutions and national circumstances. He stated, “I respect Peter Obi. But he has gone beyond his mastery of philosophy to make an august claim about winning the 2023 presidential election without adducing a shred of evidence to buttress his assertion. “Obi is the master of bogus statistics and incoherent economic prescriptions.” Shettima compared the challenge of applying foreign policies to Nigeria to transferring a cloth meant for a smaller body onto a much bigger one.

He also faulted Atiku, who had several times in the past sought the presidency, saying political ambition must be matched by character, discipline and an understanding of the responsibilities attached to public office. He was, however, quick to add that political opponents should be treated with respect, as they were fellow Nigerians and not enemies. Shettima said, “For the rest of the duration of this campaign, we’ll discuss ideas, we’ll discuss policies, but we’ll treat all our opponents with respect and dignity. They are not our enemies. They are our brothers. They are our countrymen. They are our leaders.” Shettima told the party leaders not to insult opponents in the course of the campaign, urging them, instead, to respond to criticism with evidence and reason. He said, “We have the capacity to respond to all sorts of innuendos and outright lies that our political opponents are taking on. But we won’t fall into their traps. We’ll give

them facts. We’ll give them statistics. We argue with reason, not with sentiments, not with exaggerated truth or fabricated lies.” The vice president said the Tinubu administration over three years ago inherited an economy facing severe fiscal pressures and it had taken difficult decisions, including removing the petrol subsidy and addressing distortions in the foreign exchange market. He explained that the reforms were necessary to address longstanding economic challenges, while acknowledging the responsibility to ensure that their benefits reached Nigerians. “The next obligation is to turn these gains into jobs, meaningful earnings and meaningful planning,” Shettima stated, maintaining that the administration’s priority should be to protect the reforms, improve their implementation, and ensure that public resources deliver results for households and businesses. He said, “We must protect the Continued on page 36

THISDAY • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026

NEWS

TSOLA ARAGHO’S 70TH BIRTHDAY THANKSGIVING...

L-R: The celebrant and Trustee, Itsekiri Trust Fund, Mr. Tsola Aragho; his wife, Mrs. Rosaline Aragho; The Son, Laju Aragho; and the Lead Pastor, New Estate Baptist Church, Surulere, Revd. Amos Kunat, during Tsola Aragho’s 70th birthday thanksgiving held at the New Estate Baptist Church Surulere, Lagos... recently

NAF Moves to Prevent Air Crashes as CAS Orders Stronger Flight Safety Oversight Ondo orders fumigation, water supply as residents fear disease outbreak Linus Aleke in Abuja and Fidelis David in Akure The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has directed strengthened flight safety oversight across the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) as part of efforts to prevent air crashes involving NAF aircraft. Air Marshal Aneke also reaf-

firmed the Service’s commitment to personnel safety, professional standards and institutional accountability following the tragic accident involving NAF ATR 42-500 aircraft NAF 931 on 5 October 2026. In a statement, the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the directive was issued during a

meeting with branch chiefs, Air Officers Commanding (AOCs), principal staff officers and other senior commanders on Wednesday. During the meeting, the CAS emphasised the need for sustained vigilance, strict adherence to established procedures and continuous improvement in safety management. Expressing profound sorrow over the loss of personnel, Air

Marshal Aneke acknowledged the grief of the bereaved families and the wider NAF community. He stressed that operational effectiveness must be underpinned by sound judgement, professional discipline and the highest standards of flight safety. Accordingly, he directed commanders to maintain rigorous oversight of aircraft airworthiness,

maintenance quality assurance, operational procedures and aircrew competence. He also emphasised proactive safety monitoring, prompt reporting of potential hazards and the effective implementation of safety measures, noting that flight safety remained a shared command responsibility. Meanwhile, search and recovery operations at the accident site in

Igbokoda, Ondo State, continued with the involvement of specialist personnel and equipment from relevant agencies. The Head of the Recovery and Investigation Team, Air Vice Marshal EOE Ebiowe, disclosed that the operation had involved extensive mud excavation and water pumping to facilitate access to relevant areas.

AFC APPOINTS CBN GOVERNOR, YEMI CARDOSO BOARD CHAIRMAN the Economic Development Tax Incentive. Oyedele called on investors to consider longer-term commitments, particularly as interest rates begin to decline and the relative attractiveness of fixed-income investments changes. He asked investors what the government needed to do to encourage them to commit capital for longer periods and shift from foreign portfolio investment to foreign direct investment. “We know that, for example, as interest rates start to come down, fixed income may be less attractive, but actually, if you consider the risk and the reward, it remains attractive. But what is even better is that the Internal Rate of Return (IRR) for equity investment and FDI gets more attractive, and this is where we want to go to attract more patient capital,” he said. Speaking at the forum, Oyedele said the government was strengthening collaboration between fiscal and monetary authorities. He added that reducing inflation would help lower borrowing costs and ease pressure on public finances. “If I want to even just sound selfish from the fiscal side, whatever we do to bring inflation to a single digit, thereby creating the conditions for interest rate to also be single digits will save the fiscal side as of 2026 numbers more than $10 billion. So, this is this is a top priority for us,” he said. He added that the stability and gradual appreciation of the naira were helping to moderate inflationary pressures. “The good thing is because of the way the central bank has been able to help us manage the FX environment generally, we have seen the naira not only being stable but

steadily appreciative, and the impact on that on inflation is downward, right? So, which is good.” Oyedele said the government would focus on five major areas of reform: agriculture, power, inflation management, regulatory efficiency and data transparency. On power, he said, “You cannot power a $1 trillion economy in darkness. It’s impossible.” He explained that the government was examining market-reflective pricing, transmission challenges and efficiency in the electricity sector, which remain important considerations for investors seeking to establish or expand businesses in Nigeria. On regulatory reform, Oyedele said excessive regulation, unclear rules and administrative burdens imposed significant costs on businesses. “We estimate that overregulation, regulatory burden, lack of clarity, and all of those excessive burden that we post on businesses actually are costing us more than the combined revenue from corporate tax, personal income tax and VAT combined,” he said. He added that the government was developing a framework for economic policy to prevent the arbitrary introduction of new rules, fees and licences. On data transparency, Oyedele acknowledged concerns about the availability and consistency of Nigeria’s fiscal statistics, particularly the tax-to-GDP ratio. He said the Ministry of Finance was finalising arrangements to make relevant information available and accessible on its website. “So, we are currently finalising all of that, and it will be available on the website of the Ministry of

Finance, finance.gov.ng. It will be updated timely. It will be accessible. It will be credible,” he said. Cardoso, in his remarks, said the government’s reforms were beginning to provide greater stability for investment and economic growth. He emphasised that lower inflation remained critical to improving the welfare of ordinary Nigerians. “The reason why we felt it was important to give ourselves this as a target is to recognise the fact that inflation is probably the biggest stance on the poor, and so it is critical that we bring it down to levels that are more manageable, rather than the situation where you feel okay, you’re lower double digits, and it’s okay. It isn’t okay,” he said. Cardoso said inflation had declined from about 34–35 per cent to approximately 15 per cent, describing the reduction as significant but insisting that the central bank would not become complacent. “Our medium-term target is to bring it down to single digits. Of course, as we embrace inflation targeting, that will obviously be a lot more open and transparent, and people will be able to have a clearer sense of the road of travel,” he said. He also pointed to Nigeria’s external reserves, which he said had reached their highest level in 18 years, describing them as a buffer against external shocks. According to Cardoso, the reforms had helped Nigeria withstand global pressures, including the effects of war and discussions around tariffs, while the exchange rate had remained stable and appreciated. Responding to concerns that ordinary Nigerians were yet to feel the benefits of the reforms, Cardoso said the stability provided

by the policies had helped prevent a worse outcome.

AFC Appoints Cardoso Board Chairman The Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), the continent’s leading infrastructure solutions provider, yesterday announced the appointment of Mr. Olayemi Cardoso as Chairman of its Board of Directors. A statement which announced this yesterday, stated that Cardoso brings extensive experience spanning international banking, investment management, economic policy and public sector leadership. “Since assuming office as Governor of the CBN in September 2023, he has led a far-reaching programme of monetary, financial-sector, and institutional reforms to restore macroeconomic stability, strengthen policy credibility, and rebuild investor confidence in Nigeria’s economy. “Under his leadership, the CBN has implemented significant reforms to Nigeria’s foreign exchange market, addressed longstanding foreign exchange obligations, strengthened monetary policy transmission, and enhanced institutional governance and transparency. “The Bank has also concluded a recapitalisation programme for the banking sector, aimed at strengthening the resilience and capacity of Nigeria’s financial system to support sustainable economic growth. “Prior to his appointment as Governor, Mr. Cardoso built a distinguished career in international banking and public service, including a 12-year tenure as Chairman of Citibank Nigeria and service as Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget in Lagos State. “In the latter role, he contributed

to economic planning and fiscal management in one of Africa’s largest economies. He holds a degree from Aston University in the United Kingdom and a master’s in public administration from Harvard Kennedy School, where he also served on the Alumni Board,” it added. It further stated that Cardoso’s appointment came as the AFC continued to expand its role in financing and developing strategic infrastructure assets that address Africa’s infrastructure gap, accelerate industrialisation and strengthen regional integration. “His experience in financial sector reform, institutional governance and capital markets will provide valuable perspective on the Corporation’s strategic direction as it mobilises investment to unlock Africa’s economic potential,” it added. President & CEO of AFC, Samaila Zubairu, was quoted to have said: “We are delighted to welcome Mr Cardoso as our Board Chairman. He shares our conviction that Africa’s lasting stability depends on its productive capacity. His leadership will strengthen AFC as we advance The Africa We Build 2050, mobilising African capital to build the infrastructure and industries that create jobs, prosperity and dignity for our people. We also sincerely thank Mrs Samuel-Ogbu for her dedication and contribution to AFC’s board during her tenure.” Commenting on the appointment, Cardoso said: “A more productive Africa is a more stable Africa. AFC has the credibility and track record to mobilise capital and build the infrastructure and industries that drive transformation. I look forward to working with the Board, management and member states to advance The Africa We Build 2050.

Our measure of success must be the productive capacity we create, the industries we enable and the jobs we support.” Dangote Group Applauds FG’s Reforms, Says Policy Stability Boosted Confidence in Refinery Investment The Dangote Group also endorsed the government’s reforms, with its Group Chief Economist, Hassan Mammud, saying fiscal and monetary policy changes helped the Group stabilise its operations and improve investment projections. Mammud, who represented the President of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, at the forum, said the transparency and credibility of monetary policy supported the group’s investment in its refinery investment. He said policy consistency and incentives available to businesses operating in an export-free zone were important factors in building investor confidence. “The transparency and the credibility we have seen in that has significantly enabled the Dangote Group to have good projections and was able to come out of the woods from his investment of about $20 billion in the refinery,” he said. Mammud urged international investors to consider Nigeria, describing the country’s reform experience as a model for other African economies. “Please come into Nigeria, bring your investment. Nigeria is actually a symbol to other African countries now,” he said. Cardoso welcomed the group’s comments, noting that the reforms had helped address the challenges businesses faced when exporting at one exchange rate and importing at another.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026 • THISDAY

NEWS

YEAR 2026 INTERNATIONAL DAY OF COOPERATIVES...

L-R: The Minster of state, Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, represented by his Special Assistant on Cooperatives and Farmer’s Assistant, Victor Oyegoke; the President, Ogun State Cooperative Federation Limited (OGSCOFED), Alhaji Wasiu Olaleye; Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun; Commissioner for Community Development and Cooperatives, Hon. Ademola Balogun and the Ogun State Head of Service, Mr. Olarenwaju Saka, during the celebration of the Year 2026 International Day of Cooperatives for Ijebu and Remo Zone, held in Ijebu-Ode on Wednesday

TINUBU: I’M READY TO RENEW PACT WITH NIGERIANS, INAUGURATES 2027 CAMPAIGN COUNCIL reforms, improve their execution, and carry their benefits from the treasury to the household.” He said Tinubu deserved a second term because the government’s reform programme had gained momentum, which the country could not afford to squander. “President Tinubu deserves a second term because the work has acquired momentum that Nigeria cannot afford to squander,” Shettima said. Yari said Tinubu’s achievements in office and his future plans for the country would form the basis of the party’s 2027 campaign. He stated, “As we start going around to royal fathers and clerics, this is the message I have been sending today: our campaign is going to be centred on what you have done and what you are going to do in the future.” Yari commended the president for his achievements in infrastructure development and improving the lives of ordinary Nigerians, adding that his record has made the campaign team’s assignment easier. He said, “You have touched the life of the ordinary man. You have been there in infrastructure, building the iron road as if the money is nothing.” The former two-time governor of Zamfara State assured the president that members of the campaign council would work together to secure his re-election, describing the assignment as a collective responsibility. “We are going to do it all honestly with the trust and, by God’s grace, we are going to deliver,” Yari said. Wike, for his part, said securing a national victory for Tinubu would not excuse campaign coordinators who failed to mobilise sufficient votes in their assigned territories. He stressed that appointments and positions in the campaign council must translate into tangible electoral results. The FCT minister said, “If you don’t deliver your state and the president wins, don’t say we have won. It is not a question of I am chairman of this, I am secretary of this, I am a member of this.” The minister, who is the coordinator of Tinubu’s campaign in Rivers State and the FCT, said campaign officials must take personal responsibility for delivering their areas rather than rely on the overall outcome of the presidential election. He illustrated the point with Lagos State, recalling a conversation with the Chief of Staff to the President. “If you don’t win in Lagos, don’t say we have won,” Wike said. The minister expressed confidence in his own assignment, saying Rivers and the FCT would deliver massive votes for Tinubu in the January 2027 presidential election. Wike stated, “Simple, there is not

too much work for me. It’s Rivers and FCT, and let me say and pledge, by the grace of God, Rivers and FCT will vote massively for Bola Tinubu. That is my job. “Rivers and FCT, it is taken. I challenge any area council that can say they don’t see the presence of Mr President. “For me, as an opposition party member, as the leader of the Peoples Democratic Party, there are not two leaders of the PDP. I’m the leader of the PDP, so I speak on behalf of the Peoples Democratic Party.” Defending his support for Tinubu, Wike said being an opposition party member should not prevent politicians from acknowledging what they consider positive actions by the ruling party. He said, “Democracy allows the opposition to be there to look at things that the ruling party has not concentrated on and say these are the issues you are not tackling. Democracy is not that if the ruling party is doing well, because you are in opposition, you say they are not doing well. That is not democracy.” Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo and his Osun State counterpart, Ademola Adeleke, also expressed optimism about Tinubu’s re-election. Soludo, a member and national leader of the opposition All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), disclosed that his party would campaign round the clock for Tinubu’s second term. He told the president, “Count on us, the All Progressives Grand Alliance, 24/7. We are with you because we believe.” The former Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) declared that the president’s return for a second term was already settled in the minds of his supporters. He said, “We are talking about when you get into the second term. It is the acceleration in the transformation process — from stability and reform to shared prosperity.” Soludo described Tinubu as a symbol of “the unity of Nigeria, the security of Nigeria and the shared prosperity of Nigeria”, saying those values informed APGA’s decision to back him. He also defended the government’s economic reforms, acknowledging their difficulty but insisting they were necessary. “The path you have chosen, that you have had the courage to take, is the difficult but necessary path,” he said. Adeleke also declared that no one could stop the second term movement of Tinubu. Adeleke of the opposition Accord Party said the president would emerge victorious during

the January poll. He stated, “I can see the victory in 2027. Nobody can stop this movement. I am going to lead. We will sing and dance all the way back to Aso Rock. Four years isn’t enough, that’s why I am here to throw my weight. “Let us rise from all nooks and crannies to ensure his victory. Let us pray for Mr President and, by the grace of God, we shall be there.”

Yilwatda: Tinubu’s Reforms Deserve Continuity APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, said the various reforms introduced by the Tinubu administration deserved continuity. Yilwatda added that under Tinubu, the government had pursued major economic reforms that addressed longstanding structural challenges and established a stronger foundation for sustainable growth. He spoke yesterday in Abuja during the inauguration of the Presidential Campaign Council of the party ahead of the 2027 general election. He stressed that the inauguration marked the beginning of a coordinated and credible campaign to secure the re-election of Tinubu. Yilwatda stated that the presence of party leaders reflected shared commitment and confidence in the party’s collective capacity to present a compelling vision for Nigeria’s future. He charged the council to organise effectively, communicate the achievements and policies of the administration, and engage Nigerians with confidence. Yilwatda stated, “Today, we begin an important assignment of bringing together the strength of our national structures, the experience of our leaders and the energy of our members to build a coordinated and credible campaign. “We have made so much progress but must acknowledge where we have challenges while explaining the objectives, progress and continuing work of the administration.” The chairman stated that the party must communicate its critical infrastructure investments in roads, power, gas projects, railways, ports, agricultural infrastructure, and digital connectivity, and explain how they translated into practical improvements in daily lives. “This is the substance of our campaign: a clear record, an honest assessment of the challenges and a credible vision for the future,” he said. Yilwatda assured party members at all levels that they mattered and that the party’s strength depended on their effectiveness. He called for direction, coordination and clear responsibilities among

governors, legislators and campaign officials.

Senate: Rainbow Coalition on Course for Tinubu’s 2027 Victory Senate said the rainbow coalition incorporated into the APC Presidential Campaign Council was on course to deliver victory. It said the initiative was an unprecedented political alliance aimed at promoting national unity and inclusive governance. The declaration came as the upper chamber called on the federal government to prioritise the completion of abandoned and ongoing road projects across the country before embarking on new ones. It warned that the continued deterioration of critical highways was endangering lives, disrupting economic activities, and imposing additional hardship on Nigerians. Akpabio and Bamidele made the remarks yesterday during plenary, shortly before the chamber adjourned proceedings to enable senators attending the inauguration of the APC Presidential Campaign Council at the Presidential Villa participate in the event. Bamidele, who sought the indulgence of his colleagues to make what he described as a historic observation before moving the motion for adjournment, said the composition of the campaign council demonstrated the emergence of a broad political alliance cutting across party lines. He cited the involvement of Soludo of APGA; Adeleke of Accord Party; Wike of PDP; and Senator Ibrahim Dankwambo of Gombe North as coordinators of different segments of the campaign council. The senate leader said the arrangement represented an opportunity to deepen democratic engagement and promote a political campaign focused on ideas rather than partisan divisions. He stated, “My point, Mr. President, is that in this country, in the best interests of the Nigerian people, a rainbow coalition, indeed, is on the move and very much on course. “I think it is something that should not go unnoticed. We will proceed out of this chamber as members of the ruling party, accompanied by our colleagues, to go to the presidential campaign council. We look forward to a campaign that will really celebrate ideas and celebrate our democracy. I really congratulate you, Mr. President.” Responding, Akpabio described the coalition as historic, stating that its composition reflects an effort to bring political interests together under a common platform ahead of the 2027 presidential election. He said the arrangement went

beyond infrastructure development, revenue allocation, and economic reforms to embrace national cohesion and unity of purpose. Akpabio stated, “Let me also note, like you said, that this is historic and this is uncommon. This has never happened in the history of our democracy since 1999, that a sitting president will constitute his presidential campaign council with almost all the parties in Nigeria inclusive. “So, this is not just an inclusive government in terms of infrastructure; it’s not just an inclusive government in terms of revenue allocation and allotments; it’s not just an inclusive government in terms of giant strides in reform. It’s also an inclusive government in terms of unity, unity of purpose in democracy.” He said the composition of the campaign council suggested that Tinubu’s second-term agenda would place considerable emphasis on political cooperation. The senate president said, “The coalition is evidence of the fact that President Tinubu’s second term is going to be a unity government, just like his campaign council is a unity campaign council made of almost all the political parties in the country.” The political discussions came against the backdrop of mounting concerns over the condition of federal roads, with Senate urging the federal government to concentrate resources on completing existing projects while limiting new construction to essential interventions, including roads needed to reconnect communities cut off by flooding and provide access to underserved areas. The resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Senator Tony Nwoye on the deplorable condition of the OgbaruNdoni-Rivers Federal Highway, a strategic transport corridor linking communities in Anambra State to Ndoni in Rivers State. Senate urged the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), South-East Development Commission, and the Federal Ministry of Works to undertake emergency palliative repairs on failed sections of the highway pending comprehensive rehabilitation and reconstruction. It also called on the Ministry of Works to commence the immediate rehabilitation and reconstruction of the Ogbaru-Iyiowa-Odekpe-AtaniOgwuikpele-Ndoni Federal Highway through a special intervention programme or another appropriate funding arrangement. The lawmakers mandated Senate Committee on Works to inspect the highway, engage relevant stakeholders, and report back within four weeks. The committees on works and appropriations were also directed to

ensure adequate budgetary provision for the project.

Sani Tasks Appointees on Tinubu’s 2027 Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, tasked political appointees in the state and at the federal level to deepen grassroots engagement and work towards delivering a resounding victory for Tinubu in 2027. Speaking at a strategic meeting with the appointees at Government House, Kaduna, Sani charged them to mobilise for a successful presidential campaign flag-off scheduled for Kaduna on October 24. He urged the appointees to “strengthen coordination of political activities, towards the success of the All Progressives Congress(APC) in the coming elections.” According to the governor, “President Bola Tinubu has demonstrated an unprecedented commitment to Kaduna State through transformative investments in infrastructure, education and economic development. “Such extraordinary commitment deserves more than expressions of gratitude; it demands collective responsibility to consolidate these gains and sustain the momentum of development. “We must translate our appreciation into decisive political action. I charge every federal appointee and stakeholder to close ranks, deepen grassroots engagement and work towards delivering a resounding landslide victory for President Tinubu in 2027.” Sani said Tinubu’s support for the Kaduna Light Rail, Abuja–Kaduna–Kano Highway, Kaduna–Birnin Gwari Road, Kaduna–Kano Rail Project and investments in federal tertiary institutions underscored the president’s commitment to the development of Kaduna State. He emphasised that sustained collaboration between federal appointees and the state government was critical in translating the investments into lasting economic opportunities, improved security and better living conditions for the people.

Atiku: Inauguration of Tinubu’s Campaign Council in Aso Rock Abuse of Public Ofﬁce Atiku, yesterday, condemned the inauguration of Tinubu’s Presidential Campaign Council inside the Presidential Villa, Abuja, and described it as an abuse of public office and a worrying violation of public trust. He stated that the seat of government belonged to all Nigerians and should not be used to host partisan political activities, particularly when alternative venues were available in Abuja.

THURSDAY OCTOBER 15, 2026 ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWS

ACCESS PENSIONS WINS RETIREMENT ASSETS MGT LEADERSHIP AWARD…

L-R: Brand Manager, Digital and Internal Communications, Access Pensions, Chiamaka Onwuneme; Head, Business Development, Lagos, Access Pensions, Adaora Ude; former Managing Director/CEO, Ecobank Nigeria, Patrick Akinwuntan; Unit Head, Corporate Communications, Access Pensions, Mojisola Coker, and Head, Personal Pension Plan, Access Pensions, Chukwuma Amaonwu, during the presentation of the “Retirement Asset Management Leader of the Year”Award to Access Pensions at the BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions and Awards 2026, held in Lagos...recently

IG Seeks Stronger Intelligence Gathering to Prevent Attacks on Schools Funmi Ogundare The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, yesterday called for stronger intelligence gathering, early-warning systems, and improved collaboration between schools and security agencies to prevent attacks on educational institutions across the country. He stated that sustainable school protection requires a

shift from reactive responses to preventive measures, stressing that safeguarding schools must be treated as a national security priority rather than the sole responsibility of school administrators or security agencies. Disu also called for stronger police-community partnerships, improved emergency preparedness, and effective information-sharing among

Don’t Interfere in 2027 Elections, Obidients Warn Wike Chuks OkochainAbuja

The Obidient Movement has warned the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, against any attempt to influence the outcome of the 2027 general election. This follows the former Rivers State governor’s declaration that he would lead President Bola Tinubu’s re-election campaign in Rivers State and the FCT. The movement urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to remain impartial and ensure that voters freely determine the outcome of the

elections. Wike had last Monday declared himself the field commander of Tinubu’s reelection campaign in the two territories, a move that has drawn criticism from the political group. In a statement issued yesterday by its Media and Communications Directorate, the movement said taking charge of a political campaign did not give Wike control over voters or the electoral process. “Wike must understand that coordinating a political campaign does not confer ownership of the electorate, control over voters, or authority over the electoral process,” the statement said.

RMB Nigeria Asset Management Wins Excellence Award RMB Nigeria Asset Management Limited has been honoured with the Excellence in Investment Management award at the 2026 Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards, celebrating the firm’s exceptional performance and dedication to delivering superior investment solutions. This prestigious category win recognises RMB Nigeria Asset Management’s rigorous investment expertise, disciplined risk management, and steadfast commitment to generating sustainable, long-term value for its clients. Commenting on the recognition, Chief Executive

Officer of RMB Nigeria Asset Management Limited, Kike Mesubi, said: “This recognition reflects our commitment to disciplined investment management, informed decision-making and a clear understanding of our clients’ objectives. In a market shaped by changing economic conditions, our focus remains on applying rigorous analysis and sound risk management to deliver investment solutions aligned with our clients’ needs and long-term goals. We are proud of this recognition and remain committed to creating lasting value for the clients that place their trust in us.”

government, school authorities, parents, community leaders, and other stakeholders to address threats to educational institutions. The IGP made the call while

delivering the keynote address at the 7th annual summit of the Education Writers’ Association of Nigeria (EWAN) held in Lagos with the theme: ‘Schools Under Threat: From Reactive Responses

to Sustainable Protection’. Disu, who was represented by the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai, said the consequences of insecurity in schools extended beyond victims

of attacks to include heightened anxiety among families, loss of public confidence, disruption of academic activities and the denial of educational opportunities to children.

1.5m Vote Target for Tinubu in Osun Unrealistic, Says Oyetola’s Former Spokesperson

Yinka KolawoleinOsogbo

A former Chief Press Secretary to the immediate-past Governor of Osun State, Gboyega Oyetola, Ismail Omipidan, has questioned the feasibility of securing 1.5 million votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Osun State in the 2027 general election, warning that the political

strategy surrounding the target could undermine the All Progressives Congress (APC). Omipidan also cautioned Tinubu and the APC national leadership against political arrangements that could alienate loyal party members, arguing that resentment within the party could weaken grassroots mobilisation ahead of the

presidential election. In an opinion article, he maintained that Osun State’s historical voting patterns did not support the projection of 1.5 million presidential votes, urging the president and the party leadership to adopt a strategy that reflects the state’s electoral history, political peculiarities, and the interests of its people.

He also expressed concern over the political implications of Governor Ademola Adeleke’s reported emergence as Osun State coordinator of Tinubu’s 2027 re-election campaign, warning that the arrangement could generate discontent among APC members if their established political structures were not adequately considered.

Nigeria, Spain Deepen Ties as Envoy Join to Celebrate Spanish Day Boniface Okoro in Umuahia Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Spain, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, has restated Nigeria’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations with Spain as he joined King Felipe VI, members of the Spanish Royal Family and other dignitaries to celebrate Spain’s National Day in

Madrid on October 12. The celebration, marked by a colourful military parade, aerial displays and tributes to Spain’s national history and fallen service personnel, provided an avenue for renewed diplomatic engagement between both countries. Ikpeazu said his attendance at the national occasion

underscored Nigeria’s resolve to strengthen cooperation with Spain across key sectors including trade, investment, education, energy and cultural exchange. According to him, sustained diplomatic presence at important national events is critical to building lasting partnerships and advancing shared interests.

“Diplomacy is not only about formal agreements; it is also about building relationships, deepening mutual understanding and creating opportunities for our people. Nigeria values its relationship with Spain and remains committed to strengthening the bonds between our two countries,” the Ambassador noted.

Layer3 Boosts Nigeria’s Data Sovereignty Push with N1.5bn Investment Layer3 has completed a N1.5 billion Series 1 and 2 Commercial Paper (CP) issuance as the company steps up investment in the technology infrastructure supporting Nigerian businesses and financial institutions. The issuance is the first under Layer3’s N15 billion CP programme and will provide additional capital for the company’s next phase of

growth. This includes expanding the Layer3’s infrastructure and capacity required to support increasingly critical enterprise workloads in Nigeria. For Layer3, the financing comes at a point when the conversation around where Nigerian organisations host their data, applications and core technology systems is becoming more important.

Financial institutions in particular are managing larger volumes of digital transactions, more demanding customer expectations and a growing need for resilient infrastructure that can be supported locally. Layer3 intends to invest further in the local capacity behind these systems, including its enterprise cloud, connectivity and managed technology

operations. Commenting, Chief Executive Officer of Layer3, Oyaji Idoko, said: “Data sovereignty cannot just be a policy conversation. The infrastructure has to exist here. Nigerian institutions are running increasingly critical digital systems, and our responsibility is to keep investing in the capacity, resilience and expertise required to support them locally.

Again, Rivers Seals 8 Health Facilities, Arrests Four over Quackery Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Rivers State Ministry of Health has sealed eight health facilities and arrested four persons for prosecution over alleged medical quackery, impersonation and operating unregistered facilities. The enforcement exercise,

conducted in this month of October as part of the ministry’s health facility inspection drive, uncovered an illegal health facility operating within a residential compound at No. 27 Victoria Street, Port Harcourt. During the operation, officials reportedly apprehended a suspected

quack, identified as Mr Ataisi Jephtha, and his accomplice, Mrs Mgboawaji Edwin, while allegedly attempting to perform a thyroidectomy on an unsuspecting patient. Jephtha, who allegedly posed as a surgeon, and Edwin were immediately arrested, while the facility was sealed by the

enforcement team. The ministry described the discovery as a major highlight of the exercise, raising concerns over the dangers posed by unqualified individuals carrying out surgical procedures and operating outside established regulatory standards.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026 • THISDAY

THURSDAYSPORTS

Group Sports Editor: Duro Ikhazuagbe

Cash-strapped Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and other Member Associations (MA) are in for good times as the world football governing body, FIFA, is set to increase their annual funding to $25million (about N34billion) from the $10million earmarked for the 2027-2030 window. FIFA previously distributed development funding to national associations

associations. The criticised Infantino is facing re-election as FIFA president next year. According to The Athletic, FIFA’s plan to increase funding for football development for the period 2027-2030 will be discussed by the FIFA Council, the organisation’s highest decisionmaking body, today. If approved, the proposal will undergo a consultation process before being potentially adopted by the FIFA Council in December, before final approval of the increased cash flow is required at the FIFA Congress in March. It is the same event when the FIFA president is to be elected. Meanwhile, BBC Sport, understands there is also a proposal on the table at the council to change the

Email: duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY

Good Times Coming for NFF, Other FAs as FIFA Plans $25m Support from Next Year around the world. During the four-year period 2027-2030, it was intended that each national federation would be allocated $10 million. That amount looks set to increase. According to The Athletic, FIFA has developed a proposal to increase payments to all associations, from $10 million to to $25 million.

S P O RT S D E V E LO P M E N T Furthermore, FIFA is also expected to increase their funding to the respective confederations (UEFA, Conmebol, CONCACAF, CAF, OFC and AFC). In total, the total payout to the national associations after it experienced great commercial success in connection

with this summer’s expanded World Cup with 48 teams. The proposal comes after FIFA President Gianni Infantino wrote to the six confederation presidents in September that he was open to distributing more money to member

disciplinary code and prevent a repeat of the Folarin Balogun situation, an unprecedented scenario which meant the US striker did not miss a game after being sent off in the World Cup. If approved, it will be expressly noted in the regulations that an automatic one-match ban for a red card cannot be suspended. Questions have been raised over the process which led to Balogun having his ban suspended. US President Donald Trump said he called Infantino to get the ban rescinded, which raised serious concerns over political interference. A proposal has been put forward to add to Article 27 of the regulations a list of instances whereby a ban cannot be suspended. This would include an automatic one-game ban for a red card.

Golden Eaglets in Danger of Missing Out on U17 AFCON Again

FIFA President, Gianni Infantino (left) and Ag. General Secretary of the NFF, Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme

Rudiger Saves Mourinho Blushes as Madrid Fightback to Beat Roma José Mourinho’s return to the Stadio Olimpico almost ended in fiasco last night until Real Madrid conjured up some late magic to recover from 3-1 down to beat AS Roma 4-3 in a Champions League league phase fixture. Elsewhere, champions PSG when

C H A M P I O N S L E AG U E to Etihad to inflict a painful 4-2 defeat on the Citizens. Recall it was Mourinho that guided Roma to the Conference League title in 2021-22 and then to the Europa

League final the following season, with the home fans producing a number of banners celebrating their former boss. But Mourinho’s current side Real were heading for defeat when they fell

RESULTS CHAMPIONS LEAGUE Feyenoord 3-2 Como LASK 6-3 Liverpool AS Roma 3-4 R’Madrid Aston Villa 6-0 Fenerbahce Betis FC 3-2 Porto Bodo/Glimt 1-0 Dortmund Man City 2-4 PSG Shakhtar 3-1. AEK Athens Sl’Bratislava 0-3 Stuttgart

TODAY EUROPA LEAGUE AZ Alkmaar v H Beer Sheva Celje v Omonia Nicosia Lech Poznan v Leverkusen Lyon v Cry’Palace Royale Union v Sociedad Salzburg v AC Milan S’Prague v Lillestrom Torreense v Sunderland Benfica v Celtic Bo’mouth v Sturm Graz Celta Vigo v Juventus Din’Zagreb v Anderlecht Ferencvaros v Plzen Hoffenheim v Besiktas Marseille v Olympiacos

Antonio Rudiger...celebrating his winning goal for Real Madrid at the Olympic Stadium in Roma last night. Madrid fought back from 3-1 down to win 4-3

two goals behind in the 83rd minute. However, substitutes Carlos Espi and Endrick scored to make it 3-3 before Antonio Rudiger converted a dramatic close-range 90th-minute winner. Mourinho’s changes proved crucial as Roma could not cope with corners from another substitute, Arda Guler, and crumbled late on. Espi scored five minutes after coming on when he converted a rebound after Endrick’s header had been parried. The Brazil forwarded then headed in from Guler’s corner before Rudiger steered in another Guler set-piece with a close-range volley. It was a remarkable finish to a thrilling match. The hosts had taken a deserved lead in the 20th minute when Marten de Roon produced a first-time 20yard shot from Matias Soule’s pass. However, Real were only behind for five minutes. Kylian Mbappe, making his 100th Champions League appearance, saw his strike take a deflection off Gianluca Mancini with the ball looping up and over goalkeeper Pierluigi Gollini for his 72nd goal in the competition.

Nigeria’s cadet team, the Golden Eaglets are again in serious danger of not qualifying for the U17 AFCON after they lost 2-1 to Niger in their opening Group B match yesterday in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. The Golden Eaglets are bottom of the group without any points, while Niger advanced to the semifinals of the WAFU B qualifiers with four points from two matches. Nigeria and Cote d’Ivoire, who have a point from a 1-1 draw with Niger, will now have to do battle Saturday afternoon for the other ticket to the knockout rounds of the competition. Niger were the better team and they took a deserved lead in the

20th minute after goalkeeper Mutiu Adedayo fumbled a cross inside his box. The Eaglets were uncoordinated, struggled to string passes together, while relying on individual brilliance and the hopeful long ball. Nigeria played with a lot more urgency after the interval, but they hardly troubled the well-organised Niger defense. It was Niger who scored again with three minutes left on the clock, when they benefited from a quick counter. Substitute Fasui Mubarak then scored a consolation goal for the Eaglets from an acute angle with virtually the last kick of the ball.

Schools Chase Brand-new Bus Jackpot at 2nd Pan African School Games No fewer than 400 student-athletes are expected to converge on James Hope College, Lagos, from 16 to 18 October for the second edition of the Pan African School Games, with a brand-new school bus sponsored by Mikano Changan Motors among the top prizes on offer. The three-day competition will bring together young athletes from schools across Nigeria, building on the success of the inaugural edition hosted by British International School (BIS), Lagos. The Games will feature athletics, swimming and football competitions across the U-11, U-13 and U-15 age categories. Athletics and swimming will each comprise 30 events, while participating schools will compete for honours in football. Driven by Seun Akinbohun, Busola Tejumola, and Aderoju Ope-Ajayi,

the Pan African School Games was established to go beyond conventional school sports by creating opportunities that combine athletic excellence, education, career development, and cultural exchange. According to the organisers, the event provides a platform for promising young athletes to showcase their talents before scouts, agents, and educational institutions, potentially opening pathways to international scholarships and academic opportunities. A major highlight of this year’s edition is the evolution of the competition’s identity from the Africa School Games to the Pan African School Games. According to the organisers, the rebranding reflects their vision of transforming the Games into a truly continental platform dedicated to youth development through sport.

.... Barcola Scores Hat trick as Liverpool Hammer LASK in Nine-goal Thriller Bradley Barcola scored a fine hat-trick as Liverpool eased past LASK in a Champions League game that had nine goals. Andoni Iraola’s side took a firsthalf lead in Austria, through Ronald Araujo’s first goal for the club, when he headed in from Kostas Tsimikas’ corner.

Two minutes later, Barcola scored his first Liverpool goal since joining from PSG for £123m in the summer. Lewis Koumas teed up Barcola after Rio Ngumoha made a brilliant run down the right and the Frenchman finished wonderfully with his right-foot. Barcola - who failed to score or

assist in any of his first six games scored another just before half-time after he was played through by Florian Wirtz, before Jeremie Frimpong made it four with a header from a Tsimikas cross after the break. LASK pulled one back through Robert Ljubicic but three minutes later, Barcola completed his hat-trick when

he got on the end of Frimpong’s ball, much to the delight of Liverpool’s travelling support. Lewis Koumas then got in on the act as Frimpong got another assist but the home side restored some pride through two goals in quick succession from Florian Flecker to make it 6-3 on the night.

Iraola - who made four changes from Sunday’s defeat at Manchester City, including resting Virgil van Dijk - has now seen his side win two out of two in the Champions League. Liverpool travel to Brentford in the Premier League on Saturday before taking on Villarreal at Anfield next Tuesday.

T H I S D AY • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026

BACK PAGE CONTINUATION PETER MBAH AND THE ROAD TO AWHUM is compelling. Local governments are closest to the people, and resources intended for grassroots development should serve that purpose. But financial autonomy, important as it is, cannot by itself guarantee good governance. The quality of the leaders entrusted with those resources matters just as much. This is where our local government elections deserve closer scrutiny. I have written on this many times, including Democracy and the Grassroots – THISDAYLIVE. When the political process offers little meaningful competition, accountability can begin to flow upwards to the governor and the party structure, not downwards to the people who should be the ultimate beneficiaries of local government. In such circumstances, the question of who becomes a council chairman or deputy chairman risks being settled within the political machinery as against a serious assessment of the candidate’s preparedness for public service. That is a problem because a deputy is not an ornament on an electoral ticket. The office exists partly to provide continuity when the principal can no longer serve. A deputy governor, vice-president or vice-chairman may be called upon to assume the responsibilities of leadership at a moment of crisis. The person must therefore be prepared for that eventuality. The lesson is not that every transition will be seamless or that the ability to recite an oath is a complete measure of

competence. It is that institutions must be prepared to function when circumstances demand it. The death of an officeholder is never something an institution can schedule, but it must be prepared for the possibility. I take no pleasure in the video from the Northeast. Nerves can betray anyone, and fluency in English is not a reliable measure of intelligence, integrity, or the ability to serve a community. Some of our most effective grassroots leaders communicate far more comfortably in their indigenous languages. It would therefore be unfair to reduce a person’s entire capacity for leadership to an awkward moment before a camera. But the video should prompt a more serious question: what process produced this man as the person next in line, and what had been done to prepare him for the responsibilities of that office? That is a question for the political party, the electoral system and the institutions concerned. It is not an invitation to ridicule an individual. Now to Awhum. In the video, approximately five motorbikers shared their terrible experience on the road. “The natural wonders need more than admiration; they need proper care and investment,” they said while adding that the story of Awhun is similar to that of other neglected tourism sites in Nigeria. As an aside, the late Chief Ojo Maduekwe--who served as Minister of Culture and

Tourism between 1999 and 2000 under President Olusegun Obasanjo--once told me a story of an experience shared with him by a group of foreign tourists traveling across West Africa. On arriving Seme border, they were asked for their purpose of seeking to enter Nigeria and the visitors told the border control and immigration officers that they were tourists. “Please tell us your real reason. This is not Kenya. There is nothing like tourism in Nigeria,” the visitors were reportedly told. In a way, those border control officials sounded truer than they probably intended! The potential for tourism in Nigeria is huge because there is an abundance of natural attractions across the country. Each of these natural attractions, properly developed, can sustain a local economy by creating opportunities for tour guides, transport operators, accommodation providers, food vendors and other small businesses. But tourism is an ecosystem. A waterfall does not become an economic asset simply because it is beautiful or because a government includes it in a brochure. Visitors need accessible roads, adequate facilities, safety, sanitation and reliable information. The people who live around the attraction must also have a stake in whatever economic activity it generates. Enugu State has announced ambitious tourism plans. In May 2025, the state government unveiled

a tourism development programme reportedly valued at about N30 billion, with N13.8 billion approved for the first phase. Awhum was among the attractions identified for development, including proposals for a canopy walkway and boardwalk. In July 2026, the State Executive Council reportedly approved an Okpatu–Awhum cable car project. These are significant ambitions but the test of a tourism programme is not the number of projects announced. It is whether the investments make the destination more accessible, improve the experience of visitors and create lasting value for the surrounding community. A cable car may become an attraction in its own right, but visitors will still need to travel to the area. Residents, traders and service providers will depend on the road as part of the everyday infrastructure of a living community. If the road is improved, the people will experience the difference. If it remains in its present condition, the governor’s response will count for little beyond the courtesy of acknowledging a message. Therefore, while Mbah may have demonstrated a willingness to engage, the verdict remains open. The road to Awhum will provide part of the answer. The ball is now squarely in his court. I am aware that Mbah has delivered on many promises in Enugu State. I hope he also delivers on the construction of a proper road to Awhum.

NEWS

Atiku Urges Nigerians to Collect PVCs, Promises Economic Relief If Elected in 2027 ADC condemns Akpabio’s seven virgin’s remark

Chuks Okocha in Abuja Presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has pledged to make life more affordable and improve security across Nigeria, blaming President Bola Tinubu’s administration for the rising cost of living. Atiku made the promise in a post on his official X account yesterday, while urging registered voters to collect their Permanent Voter Cards ahead of the 2027 elections. The former vice-president said Nigerians of different ages and economic backgrounds were grappling with financial hardship

and insecurity. “Parents go to bed worried about what they will feed their children tomorrow. Pensioners must choose between buying medicine and buying food. Young people work hard, yet transport, rent and basic needs consume what they earn,” Atiku said “And across the country, families live with the fear of kidnapping, attacks and whether their loved ones will return home safely,” he added. Atiku warned that Nigerians should not have to contend with hunger and insecurity at the same time, urging the country to prevent the current challenges from becoming the inheritance of

future generations. He called on eligible voters to collect and keep their PVCs, describing the cards as a means of exercising their democratic rights and seeking change through the ballot. “If you are a registered voter, please go and collect your PVC. Hold on to it. It is your voice, your choice and your peaceful power to demand change,” he said. Atiku also accused Tinubu’s administration of making life more expensive and pledged to reverse the trend if given the opportunity to govern. “Bola made life expensive. I will work to make life affordable again and restore the security every

Nigeria’s Sacrifices for Peace in Sierra Leone Will Never Be Forgotten, Says Ex-VP Calls for Africa’s economic independence Linus Aleke in Abuja A former Vice-President of Sierra Leone, Mr Samuel Sam-Sumana, has expressed profound gratitude to Nigeria for its sacrifices in restoring peace to his country, saying the contributions of Nigerian troops would remain indelible in Sierra Leone’s history. The former Vice-President also called for Africa’s economic independence to discourage young people from migrating to Europe and America in search of better opportunities and living conditions, often at the risk of their lives, owing to a lack of opportunities at home. Sam-Sumana made these remarks when the leadership of the Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja. He said Nigeria had played a pivotal role in supporting Sierra

Leone during its conflict by providing troops and other forms of assistance that helped restore peace and stability. He acknowledged that military personnel and civilians had paid the ultimate price in the struggle, stressing the need to ensure that their sacrifices were never forgotten. “As a Sierra Leonean, I wish to express my profound gratitude for the role Nigeria and other countries played in helping Sierra Leone regain peace and stability,” he said. The former Vice-President described Nigeria as a big brother in West Africa, stressing that the country’s stability and prosperity had far-reaching implications for the subregion. “When Nigeria catches a cold, the rest of us sneeze,” he said, underscoring the interconnectedness of West African countries. Sam-Sumana also urged

DECAN to sustain its engagement with the military and strengthen professional cooperation between defence correspondents and security institutions. He described journalists as indispensable partners in governance, accountability and national development, warning against the tendency of political leaders to regard critical reporting as an act of hostility. “Constructive criticism is essential to improving public institutions and ensuring that those entrusted with public responsibilities remain accountable,” he said. In his remarks, DECAN President, Mr Odita Sunday, said the courtesy visit was intended to express the association’s appreciation to Sam-Sumana for accepting its invitation and participating in the DECAN Conference and Awards 2026.

Nigerian deserves,” he said. “Let us stand together, across generations, and vote for a Nigeria where every family can live with dignity, safety and hope,” he added. ADC Condemns Akpabio’s Seven Virgin’s Remark Meanwhile, the ADC, has condemned Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s reported remarks on attempted suicide, describing his reference to “seven virgins” as a cynical and offensive comment that potentially promoted religious stereotyping. In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party also described the Senate President’s defence of imprisonment for suicide survivors as a disgraceful endorsement of what it called “an outdated colonial relic” that preferred to punish citizens

who ordinarily required help. The ADC commented on the National Suicide Prevention Bill which the Senate President had supported via imprisonment as punishment for failed suicide attempts. In a video that went into circulation afterwards, Senator Akpabio could be heard saying, as he laughed, “why death may be attractive to some young people is that they have seven virgins waiting for them.” The opposition party said it took strong exception to the Senate President’s remarks. According to Abdullahi, “We find the ‘seven virgins’ remark particularly disturbing because it introduces religious stereotyping into a discussion that should be about protecting human life. Such a lurid comment is not only careless and insensitive. It also trivialises

an issue that is, literally speaking, a matter of life and death.” The party however declared its support for the position that suicide is a mental health issue rather than a criminal act. “The criminalisation of attempted suicide is a colonial legacy. These laws belong to an era when people experiencing profound distress were treated as offenders who, by trying to take their own lives, wanted to deprive ‘the Crown’ of the services they could render and the taxes they could pay, rather than as human beings in need of care. “It is shameful that, when presented with an opportunity to reform this punitive inheritance, the head of the Senate chose to champion its preservation. Nigeria cannot continue to punish people for surviving a crisis that nearly claimed their lives, especially when those who handed us those laws have long abolished them,” the party said.

Opposition Parties Consult Presidential Hopefuls in Furtherance of G100 Resolution Chuks Okocha in Abuja The National Chairmen and National Secretaries of six opposition political parties have met with the presidential candidates of five parties as part of the ongoing strategic consultations and deliberations ahead of the 2027 general election. The participating parties were the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Social Democratic Party (SDP), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Peoples Redemption Party (PRP). The consultations have involved Alhaji Atiku Abubakar of the ADC, Governor Seyi Makinde of the APM, Mr Peter Obi of the NDC, Prince Adewole Adebayo of the SDP and Mr Donald Duke of the PRP.

In a statement by the coordinator of the G100 coalition, Salihu Moh. Lukman, and on behalf of other participating political parties, he said that, “These engagements are being undertaken in furtherance of the resolutions of the G100 Opposition Summit, which called for sustained dialogue, stronger cooperation and a coordinated approach among opposition parties in defence of multiparty democracy and the interests of the Nigerian people.” The G100 coalition said the consultations represented a practical step towards giving effect to those resolutions. “They provide an opportunity for party leaders and presidential candidates to deliberate on the framework for opposition cooperation, identify areas of common ground and consider the

steps necessary to advance a shared democratic agenda ahead of 2027. ‘’At the heart of this process is the conviction that the challenges confronting Nigeria demand serious engagement across party lines. Nigerians deserve political leaders who are prepared to place the country’s future, the wellbeing of its citizens and the credibility of its elections above narrow interests. ‘’The consultations remain ongoing. Further engagements will build on the G100 resolutions and the commitment to an opposition that is organised, responsible and capable of working together in the national interest,’’ Lukman stated. He said Nigerians would be informed of substantive decisions and agreed next steps as the deliberations progress.

T H I S D AY • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026

Price: N400

BACK PAGE LEAD PHOTOGRAPH

ANTONIO GUTERRES PRESENTS 2027 BUDGET OF UN TO THE BUDGET CHAIR, JIMOH IBRAHIM... United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres presents 2027 Budget of the UN to the Budget Chair Dr Jimoh Ibrahim at the General Assembly … yesterday

OLUSEGUNADENIYI THE VERDICT

olusegun.adeniyi@thisdaylive.com

Peter Mbah and the Road to Awhum

n Monday morning, I received two videos that left me thinking about the state of leadership in our country. The first came from a local government area in one of the Northeast states. The council chairman had reportedly died, and his deputy was being sworn in to complete the tenure. What should have been a routine constitutional exercise turned into an uncomfortable spectacle. Here was a man about to assume responsibility for an entire local government, yet he appeared unable to repeat the words of the oath being administered to him. It was an awkward moment, but the more important question was not how the man performed before the camera; it was how he emerged as the person expected to inherit such a critical leadership position in the first place. The second video came from the South-east. It showed the deplorable condition of the road leading to Awhum Waterfall in Enugu State, a natural attraction whose beauty ought to make it a source of pride for the community and our country. I decided to forward the two videos directly to the governors of the respective states. I do that quite often based on my conviction that to whom you can whisper, you don’t always need to shout. Only one of the two governors responded: Peter Mbah of Enugu State. I will not name the other governor who had not responded as at the time of sending in this column last night. The point is not to embarrass or turn a private exchange into a contest between political officeholders. It is to examine what these encounters tell us about leadership. To be fair, governors receive enormous volumes of messages, and no reasonable person should expect them to personally respond to everyone. It is also possible that the other governor acted on the information without replying to me. He could also have decided that he was helpless about the situation depicted in the video. But the question remains: in a political culture where citizens often struggle to get the attention of those who govern them, what should we make of a leader who responds when a problem is brought to his attention? Mbah called me about two hours after receiving the video message. He said he agreed with the complainants. “You cannot talk about tourism with a road like that so they are

Governor Peter Mbah quite correct,” Mbah said. “But what they do not know is that the road will soon be constructed. You can see that it has been cleared.” In public service, accountability begins with acknowledging a problem and indicating that something was being done about it. But let me also add a qualification. A response is not a completed road, and a promise is not a project delivered. To that extent, Mbah’s assurance must be tested against what happens on the ground. Nevertheless, there is value in his willingness to engage with information that may help government do its job. The larger issue here is that public officials must remain ever attentive to issues of concern to the ordinary people. From Abuja to many of the 36 states, we don’t often see that. In recent months, Nigerians have been groaning under the yoke of skyrocketing prices of goods and services that are priced beyond them. It doesn’t appear as if anybody is listening. On Monday, the 2026 Global Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) report by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) confirmed the level of deprivation in our country: an additional 17.9 million Nigerians slipped into poverty between 2021 and 2024. Meanwhile, only God knows how many more millions may have slipped even further in the last two years. With the multidimensional poverty rate increasing to 38.7 percent in 2024 from 33 percent in 2021,

Nigeria recorded the largest increase among the five countries that experienced a rise over their latest measurement periods. We performed even worse than Afghanistan, the Central African Republic, Guinea and Kyrgyzstan! Amid all these, the only response we have received from the federal government is a meaningless 30-day ‘fuel discount’ from the NNPC that appears more like an attempt to trivialize a serious problem. To worsen matters, we have become too familiar with the futility of voice. And the government, especially this government, seems to capitalize on that to take Nigerians for granted. Yet, in a functioning democracy, citizens must have reason to believe that speaking up is worthwhile because when the ordinary channels for expressing dissatisfaction repeatedly fail, disillusionment accumulates. And when that happens for a long time, there are usually consequences. So, in the context of this intervention, a message to a governor is not

only a modest form of civic engagement, but also an opportunity to see whether the connection between citizens and the state is still functioning. Now, the two videos raise different questions, and it is important not to confuse them. Let me begin with the Northeast video. On 11 July 2024, the Supreme Court delivered its landmark judgment on local government financial autonomy, directing that allocations from the Federation Account be paid directly to each of the 774 local government areas in the country and rejecting the use of caretaker committees in place of democratically elected councils. The judgment addressed a longstanding distortion in our federal arrangement: the control exercised by governors over institutions constitutionally recognised as the third tier of government. The reasoning behind local government autonomy Continued on page 39

On Anthony Kila

n a column last year titled, Parade of ‘Oluwole’ Certificates – THISDAYLIVE, I wrote about how many of our sacrosanct institutions in Nigeria have been invaded by a national culture of fraud: “In religion, charlatans have crowned themselves Pastors, Bishops, Imams, General Overseers etc. In the hospitals, patients are at the mercy of fake doctors and pharmacists whose prescriptions are often fatal. In the construction industry, quacks have taken over, causing buildings to collapse after mere drizzle. In academia, there is an epidemic of ‘professors’ who disseminate ignorance to unsuspecting students.” Despite the foregoing, I must confess being shocked by the revelations about the academic credentials being paraded by Mr Anthony Kila. Although I have never had the opportunity of a personal interaction with him, Kila is someone I admired from distance based on his public engagements. On Tuesday, I saw a post on an X handle, @DailyJusticeAct, which summed up the unfortunate saga for me: “Kila’s fall is not merely shocking it is quietly devastating. For years, his calm voice, measured eloquence and careful articulation lent weight to every argument. Many of us leaned in, persuaded not only by what he said but by the quiet authority with which he said it. Now the allegations of forged credentials,

Kila stretched across degrees, titles, and institutions, leave that trust fractured. His performance was compelling but the foundation, if the reports hold, was not. Deception of this scale is never just personal it is a public wound.” As I stated in the column under reference, forging academic credentials are mere symptoms of the crisis of values that bedevil our country today. But it is nonetheless very depressing when someone you hold in high esteem turns out to be no more than an imposter.

Printed and Published in Lagos by THISDAY Newspapers Limited. Lagos: 35 Creek Road, Apapa, Lagos. Abuja: Plot 1, Sector Centre B, Jabi Business District, Solomon Lar Way, Jabi North East, Abuja . All Correspondence to POBox 54749, Ikoyi, Lagos. EMAIL: editor@thisdaylive.com, info@thisdaylive.com. TELEPHONE Lagos: 0802 2924721-2, 08022924485. Abuja: Tel: 08155555292, 08155555929 24/7 ADVERTISING HOT LINES: 0811 181 3085, 0811 181 3086, 0811 181 3087, 0811 181 3088, 0811 181 3089, 0811 181 3090. ENQUIRIES & BOOKING: adsbooking@thisdaylive.com (ISSN 1117-871X)