THURSDAY 1ST MAY 2025

Trump’s Tariffs: US GDP

Addeh

Mrs.

and Aminu

Front

Children of the deceased – Mr. Linus Lorinaer, Mr. Abiodun Azeez, Mrs. Adeola Azeez, Mr. Olusegun Ayo-Adebanjo, Mr. Obafemi AyoAdebanjo, Mrs. Ayotunde Ayo-Adebanjo, Mrs. Sunmbo Ayo-Adebanjo; and Dr. Sade Ayo-Adebanjo, during the Tributes and Service of Songs for the departed Leader of Afenifere, Chief Ayo Adebanjo

Tinubu, Jonathan,Obasanjo, Atiku, Obi, Adesina,Dangote,Others Extol Late Adebanjo

Wale Igbintade Prominent Nigerians including President Bola Tinubu, former Presidents

Continued on page 40

Eno Alludes to Imminent Defection, Says PDP Will Soon Grind to a Halt

Likens party to a faulty plane unfit to fly Baraje: Time to move on, defection over flogged Koshoedo assumes office as acting national secretary

Chuks Okocha in Abuja, Emma Okonji and Agnes Ekebuikein Lagos Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has hinted at his possible defection from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Although he did not specify which party he might likely join, he, however, likened the PDP to a spoilt plane no longer fit to take him to the next destination from 2027.

Speaking against the backdrop of recent gale of defections from the PDP, the latest being the Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborewori, who moved the ‘Whole of Delta’ to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Eno disclosed that the PDP was heavily fragmented and might soon grind to a halt.

But a former chairman of the PDP, Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje, has dismissed claims that the APC might have secured victory ahead

Continued on page 40

REQUIEM MASS IN HONOUR OF LATE PASCAL DOZIE...

Emmanuel

in Abuja The US economy contracted for the

L-R: Children of the deceased – Mr. Chiekezie Dozie, Ifunanya Dozie, Chijioke Dozie, Kelechi Dozie, Aishetu Dozie, Mr. Ngozi Dozie, Adesua Dozie; and Mr. Uzoma Dozie, during the Requiem Mass in honour of Late Pascal Dozie, at the Catholic Church of Assumption, Falomo, Lagos, yesterday (see story on page 40)

Back Row (L-R): Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Obong Victor Attah, Mr. Peter Obi, Mrs. Olufunso Amosun, Senator Ibikunle Amosun,

Bamidele Abiodun, Aremo Segun Osoba, Alhaji Rauf Aregbesola, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Senator Gbenga Daniel;

Tambuwal.

Row (L-R):

JIMOH IBRAHIM GETS UNIVERSITY LICENCE...

Founder, University of Fortune, Igbotako, Ondo State, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim (left), receiving the university licence from the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf O. Alausa, in Abuja, yesterday

Stock Market Appreciates by N3.73trn in Four Months

Kayode Tokede

The stock market section of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) appreciated by N3.73 trillion by market capitalisation in the first four months of 2025 to close at N66.496 trillion as of April, 30, 2025. Capital market analysts attributed the stock market N3.7 trillion growth to impressive 2024 performance by listed companies and the recovery of some companies in their first quarter ended March 31, 2025 corporate earnings released on the Exchange.

So far in 2025, the stock market has seen Monetary Policy Committee of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) retaining the benchmark interest rate at 27.50 per cent, inflation moving to 24.23 per cent as of March 2025, listing by introduction of Legend Internet Plc, banks announcing the outcome of fresh capital raising on the Exchange, among others.

Figures compiled by THISDAY showed that the stock market opened this year at N62.76 trillion, gaining N3.73 trillion or 5.9 per cent to close on April 30, 2025 at N66.496 trillion.

The stock market in January appreciated by N1.95 trillion, attributable to caution trading by investors in some fundamentals companies quoted on the Exchange.

In February 2025, it appreciated by N2.48 trillion to close at N67.193 trillion.

In March 2025, the stock market was down by N936 billion as investors shifted attention to money market instruments. In addition,

it gained N239.03 billion in April 2025 from N66.257 trillion it opened for trading to close at N66.496 trillion.

Consequently, the Nigerian Exchange Limited All-Share Index (NGX ASI) closed April 30, 2025 at 105,800.85 basis points, representing an increase of 2,874.45 basis points or 2.8 per cent from 102,926.40 basis points the equities market closed for trading in 2024.

With inflation rate at 24.23 per cent as of March 2025— driven by the CPI rebasing — and the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) decision to hold rates in line with expectations, capital market analysts have hinted at further stock market appreciation in the remaining months of second quarter (Q2) of 2025.

The Managing Director, Globalview Capital Limited, Mr. Aruna Kebira in a chat with THISDAY, noted that the stock market in the first four months of 2025 witnessed the tanking of inflation figures and CBN retaining interest rate at 27.50 per cent.

“Those parameters alone gave the capital market investors a moment of respite in first four months of 2025.

“The yields in the money market are not looking as attractive as they were in 2024, making discerning investors in search of better yields consider the capital market as their investment destination.

“In the last MPC, the MPR was retained, including other metrics. This is sending positive signals that as the inflation figure and money market yields are downward looking,

the MPC would have a reason to tinker the MPR downward. Which always is not fixed income friendly.

“The release of both the UFS and AFS of issuers into the market was another booster as 80 per cent cannot be classified as lacklustre. Then, there was a follow-through with quality dividend declarations. We saw the banking sector pushing their limits with relish and are happy doing so.

“Zenith Bank and UBA paid N4.00 and N3.00 final dividend,

while GTCO paid a whooping N7.03 as final dividend to shareholders.”

He noted that the performance of the stock market in Q2 2025 would be hinged on the quality of the first quarter of 2025 results.

“If the various issuers demonstrate a performance higher than the corresponding period of 2024, the market will move to appreciate their prices.

“I also see an improvement in the liquidity around the stock market

arena, which will boost market participation and invite the bull into the market,” he added.

In addition, analysts at Cordros Research stated that, “We believe the domestic equities market might respond positively to the MPC’s decision to pause interest rate hikes as investors assess the likelihood of policy easing in the medium term.

“We also expect to see some rotation into sectors positioned for expansion in a lower-rate environment,

particularly the manufacturing sector, as lower financing costs, improved input cost dynamics, and stronger consumer demand enhance growth prospects, making the sector more attractive to investors.

“Furthermore, foreign portfolio investor (FPI) participation is expected to rise (2024: 15.3per cent | 2023: 11.5per cent) as improving macroeconomic conditions and prospects of monetary easing enhance the appeal of Nigerian equities.”

Sanwo-Olu: We are Committed to Development of Creative Industry

Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has thrown his weight behind the All-Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) 2025 to be hosted in the State, saying his administration will continue to give opportunity, hope and space for people in the creative industry to thrive.

Sanwo-Olu’s endorsement of AFRIMA amplified the growing momentum around the highly anticipated event, which has already garnered backing from key stakeholders, institutions and corporate sponsors at national, continental and international levels.

According to a statement, speaking

during a courtesy visit by members of the International Committee of AFRIMA and the representatives of the African Union Commission (AUC) in Lagos, Sanwo-Olu said his government would continuously create a clear business opportunity and environment for people in the creative industry to do well.

The Governor said Lagos has given life to many people in entertainment, fashion and the arts by supporting them to actualise their dreams, adding that his government will continue to assist people in propagating whatever gifts and talents they have.

He added: “It was not difficult for us to make entertainment, tourism, and everything in the creative space one of our cardinal objectives. We are very intentional because we realise that the creative industry is a place where the youth with a dynamic

population want to be. It is also the largest employer of labour in different ways and means. But more importantly, it also helps to tell the African story, a story that the entire world has not heard, to be able to take it up and work with it.

“As a government, what we set out to do is to continue to give opportunity, hope and space for the creative people.

“We will give them the space and create a clear business opportunity and environment for them to thrive and do well. Lagos has become a destination for good reasons.

“We know AFRIMA. It is indeed an honour that as strategic as we are, AFRIMA deemed it fit to hold its 2025 events in Lagos. It comes with responsibility and commitment. Lagos is able, and it is big enough to take on AFRIMA, and we will take it

forward. We have the structures and infrastructures to be able to support AFRIMA.”

Speaking earlier, the leader of the delegation, Ms. Angela Martins, expressed her appreciation for past support from the Lagos State Government for AFRIMA, which aims at promoting the cultural and creative industry on the continent and providing recognition of talent in music in Africa.

Martins, who is the Head of the Culture Department and Acting Director of Social Development, Culture and Sports of the African Union, said: “Lagos has hosted AFRIMA awards before, and we are really thankful for the support. We are looking forward to support from the Lagos State Government in order to host AFRIMA 2025 and beyond.”

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The Senate, through its Committee on Capital Market yesterday resolved to summon Lafarge Africa Plc over the planned divestment of 83.8 percent majority shares it controls in the cement industry . This is even as the Bureau of Public Enterprises ( BPE ), assured the Senate that the 16.19 percent share held by the Nigerians in Lafarge Plc, was intact. The Committee had an interactive session with the management of Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) on the alleged planned sale of Lafarge Africa Plc to Chinese

Investors . In his submission before the committee, the Director General of SEC , Emmanuel Agama, who was represented by Director , Securities and Investment Services , Abdulkafir Abbas , said SEC had not received any formal proposal regarding the proposed divestment of the majority shareholding in Lafarge Africa Plc . SEC, however, explained that it was notified of an internal restructuring involving Holcim Group the majority shareholder in Lafarge Africa Pic .

The DG said, “Holcim Group holds 83.81 percent of Lafarge Africa Pic’s issued share capital through the following wholly owned entities:

“As part of the internal restructuring, the 27.77 percent equity stake

held by Associated International Cement Limited was transferred to another Holcim-owned entity. Davis Peak Holdings Limited.

“There has been no change in the ultimate beneficial ownership of the shares as a result of this transaction.

“In light of the foregoing, the Commission wishes to clarify that no format filing has been made with respect to any proposed sale of Lafarge Africa Pic to Chinese investors”, he said.

Representative of the Bureau of Public Enterprises, Satura Aisha Bello, in her capacity as Director, Post Transaction, told the committee that the Share Lafarge Africa Plc planned to divest, belongs to the company and not the 16.19 percent share held by Nigerians.

James Sowole in Abeokuta

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would perform the groundbreaking for the establishment of the biggest cotton and polyester processing factory in the world at the Special Agro Processing Zone located at the Gateway International Airport, Iperu/Ilisan area of the State.

Speaking while receiving the former Accountant General of the Federation (AGF), Mrs. Oluwatoyin Madein, and members of the Iperu Development Association in his office

at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Abiodun said the factory, which is under the “Renewed Hope Cotton Resurgent Initiative,” would sit on 400 hectares of land and would employ about 250,000 people daily.

He said: “In the next 30-45 days, we will be doing the groundbreaking of the Renewed Hope Cotton Resurgent Initiative that will be done by Mr. President himself. It is going to be a bigger factory, and it will be the biggest cotton and polyester processing factory in the world.

“It will employ 250,000 people per day. The promoters of this factory

went around the whole state, and they decided that this is the place they want to site this factory because of the existing infrastructure like the airport, proximity to consumers, and the ability of raw materials to come in centrally.

“We are clearing the site, and this factory is going to sit on 400 hectares of land. It is like a whole new town. The requirements to support this industry can best be imagined. The economic impact on Iperu and its environs, the entire Remoland, Ijebu land, and the whole of Ogun State is beyond imagination,” Abiodun said.

L-R: Executive Director, Crude and Products, NNPC Shipping Limited, Mr. John Terry; Chief Executive Officer, Caverton Offshore Support Group (COSG), Mr. Olabode Makanjuola; Honourable Minister of state for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri; and Chief Executive Officer, Stena Bulk, Erik Hanel, during the presentation for the formalisation of NNPC Shipping joint venture, Unity Shipping Worldwide, in Abuja… recently

Lokpobiri: NNPC, Caverton, Stenabulk JV Will Ensure In-country Revenue Retention

Lauds Tinubu’s vision, reforms in oil sector

addeh in Abuja

The Minister of State Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has stated that the shipping operations Joint Venture (JV) between the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Caverton Offshore Support Group, and Stenabulk will ensure in-country revenue retention.

While lauding the deal, the minister described it as a bold step towards enhancing shipping operations in the country, strengthening local content, and driving economic growth through strategic industry alignment.

THISDAY learnt that the joint venture will enhance maritime transportation in the oil sector in Nigeria and the broader West African region, serving logistics requirements, with an emphasis on cost-effectiveness, safety, and sustainability.

Nigeria’s

The Special Adviser on Media and Communication to the Minister, Nneamaka Okafor, in a statement in Abuja, noted that the minister spoke during a strategic engagement with the JV partners, where he emphasised the importance of cross-sector collaboration in achieving

national profitability goals.

“For us to maximise expected profitability and deliver long-term value to the nation, every sector of the industry must be actively firm and aligned with one another,” the minister stated, noting that the JV represents a practical example of the government’s local content aspirations becoming reality.

He expressed satisfaction with

Membership of

Caverton, an indigenous firm, in the partnership, saying that it ensures national participation, which strongly aligns with Nigeria’s local content policy.

“I am pleased to see a Nigerian company at the heart of this strategic partnership. It is not only a reflection of our commitment to inclusive development but also ensures national participation - something that strongly

GCBPR

Will Attract Foreign Investors, Says US Envoy

oghenevwede ohwovoriole in Abuja

The acting Deputy Chief of Mission of the United Statesof America, Christine Harbaugh, has stated that Nigeria being admitted as an associate member of the Global Cross Border Privacy Rules (CBPR) would attract foreign investors because of the trust it will confer on the nation’s digital economy.

She spoke at the African Data Protection Authorities ((NADPA/ NAPDP) Conference and Annual General Meeting 2025, in Abuja yesterday.

Harbaugh said Nigeria, being a member of the GCBPR will make foreign investors to come and do digital business in Nigeria.

“By joining the Global Forum, Nigeria becomes part of a committed international community working to reduce data protection risks and ensure strong safeguards travel with the data no matter where it is transferred.

“This commitment to data protection will enhance Nigeria’s reputation as a reliable partner in the global digital economy. The decision to join the CBPR Forum will open new avenues for commercial opportunities between U.S. and Nigerian companies.

“ Approximately 60 per cent of Nigerian startups are Incorporated in the United States and facilitating cross-border data flows will increase the ability of these companies to service U.S. and Nigerian clients and further fuel our growing digital trade.

“By aligning itself to a globally recognised standard for data protection, Nigeria is creating a digital ecosystem that will attract investment and foster collaboration. With this decision, US companies, known for their technological advancements and expertise, can find a more welcoming environment in Nigeria,” she said.

She added that “Nigeria’s decision to join the Global Cross Border Privacy Rules Forum was a testament to a

commitment to digital transformation and economic growth.

“This decision marks a significant milestone for Nigeria, demonstrating its commitment and leadership in the global digital economy. By joining the CBPR Forum as an associate member, Nigeria is sending a clear message to the world: it is open for digital business.

“The immense potential that the digital economy holds for Nigeria is undeniable. This move underscores an important step in creating an enabling environment that fosters innovation, growth, and collaboration,” she added

She also spoke on Nigeria’s efforts towards achieving a safe digital economy.

According to her, “In recent years, Nigeria has made significant strides in embracing digital transformation. The tech industry here is growing rapidly, with startups and established companies alike driving innovation across various sectors. By beginning

the process of aligning with the CBPR Forum, Nigeria is further solidifying its position as a global hub for digital business and innovation.

“This move will not only protect U.S. and Nigerian citizens’ personal data but also build trust with international partners. Untrusted data systems, that prioritise control over privacy and sacrifice freedoms in the name of “security,” pose risks not only to the private sector but corrode citizens’ trust in the integrity of their democracy.”

In his address, the National Commissioner of NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji highlighted the reasons behind the commission’s application for the associate membership of GCBPR.

“Our intention to join the Global Cross-border Privacy Rules (CBPR) Forum as an associate member. Nigeria will have the opportunity to observe the procedure for ensuring accountability within organisations during cross-border data transfers and ensure that our indigenous Data Protection Compliance Organisations are able to leverage this accountability procedure among others.

“This framework will particularly ensure that organisations in Nigeria would have more options in crossborder transfer of personal data; and that relevant safeguards for data protection under the NDP Act are painstakingly implemented.” He added

hammed shittu in Ilorin

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has rejoiced with the President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote on his appointment to the World Bank’s Private Sector Investment Lab, a body tasked with promoting investment and job creation in emerging economies.

The President, in a release issued on Wednesday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described the appointment as apt, given Dangote’s rich private sector experience, strategic investments, and many employment opportunities created through his Dangote Group.

President Tinubu urged Dangote

to bring to bear on the World Bank appointment his transformative ideas and initiatives to impact the emerging markets across the world fully.

The Dangote Group became one of Africa’s leading conglomerates through innovation and continuous investment.

Dangote Group’s business interests span cement, fertiliser, salt, sugar, oil, and gas. However, the $20 billion Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals remains Africa’s most daring project and most significant single private investment.

The World Bank announced Dangote’s appointment on Wednesday as part of a broader expansion of

its Private Sector Investment Lab.

The lab now enters a new phase aimed at scaling up solutions to attract private capital and create jobs in the developing world.

The CEO of Bayer AG, Bill Anderson, the Chair of Bharti Enterprises, Sunil Bharti Mittal, and the President and CEO of Hyatt Hotels Corporation, Mark Hoplamazian, are on the Private Sector Investment Lab with Dangote.

The World Bank said the expanded membership brings together business leaders with proven track records in generating employment in developing economies, supporting the Bank’s focus on job creation as a central pillar of global development.

The Kwara State Government yesterday hinted that arrangement has been finalised to secure over $85.4m grant from the World Bank to bring more dividends of democracy to the doorsteps of the rural populace in the state.

The state commissioner for Finance, Dr. Awwal Nuru dropped the hint in Ilorin during the first quarter 2025 inter ministerial press briefing organised by the State Ministry of Communications.

She said: “Though, the World Bank has yet to release the funds to the state government but the state government has met the needed conditions to obtain the grant from the World Bank”. She explained that, “The granting of the grant to the state was based on the performances of the state on the N- Cares intervention projects in the state”.

She pointed out that, “the government has committed a lot of money as counterpart fund to the N-Cares, a World Bank intervention projects and this has assisted the World Bank to compensate the state government for the grant”.

Nuru opined that by the time the money is released to the government, it will have direct impact on the socio-economic development of the people, especially those residing at the rural areas of the state.

“Like I said the fund is yet to be released to Kwara State Government but the World Bank has finalised plans to grant the government a sum of $84.5m.

“Kwara is not the only state that would benefit from the grant. All the states that performed in the World Bank N-Cares intervention projects would also benefit from the grant.

“It is not a secret affair. It is on the World bank website for the beneficiary

aligns with our local content policy. This initiative will boost the economy by ensuring revenue retention within our borders,” he added.

Lokpobiri commended the NNPC for its role in driving progress in the sector as well as President Bola Tinubu’s foresight and leadership, noting that such reforms and partnerships are already yielding measurable progress.

“This joint venture is a testament to the president’s vision. It reflects the kind of impact-driven collaboration that we believe will transform the energy sector and strengthen Nigeria’s economic position,” the minister stressed.

In his remarks, the Chief Operating Officer of Caverton Offshore Support Group, Mr. Olabode Makanjuola, affirmed the company’s readiness to deliver on the objectives of the joint venture.

“We are proud to be a part of this collaboration. Caverton brings a strong understanding of local operations and a firm commitment to demonstrating that indigenous capacity can deliver world-class results,” he said.

Echoing the enthusiasm, General Manager of Stenabulk, Mr. Fredrik Eriksson, described the partnership as “a unique opportunity to merge international shipping expertise with local operational strength.

“We are excited to collaborate with Caverton and NNPC to bring innovation and efficiency to the sector,” Eriksson emphasised.

states in Nigeria. This support is based on the performance index of Kwara state on the N-Cares projects and other states in the country”, Duru noted. Nuru also said that, the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) in the state has increased from N21billion to N25billion during the first quarter of the year. She said the state government is committed to transparency in the governance and would not indulge on any expenses that would not pass through due process in the state. Duru also said the government has paid all the dues meant for pensioners after they have completed all the necessary guidelines needed to get their pensions in the state. She also used the event to laud local government councils in the state for embarking on meaningful projects capable of enhancing the socio-economic development of the rural populace in the state.

Emmanuel

It’s Tunji-Ojo’s Birthday: E-visa, E-gates Arrive to Secure Nigeria

By Femi Salako

Today is Worker’s Day, instructively, and the birthday of Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, who is rolling out phenomenal security initiatives to make Nigeria more secure and prosperous today. Today, Nigeria takes another bold step into the digital future with the official launch of the country’s much-anticipated electronic visa (e-visa) system—ushering in a new era of efficiency and ease for travellers. Fittingly, this historic leap in Nigeria’s immigration reform coincides with the birthday of the man leading the charge: Hon. (Dr.) Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Nigeria’s Minister of Interior.

It is a poetic alignment—one that reflects the Minister’s lifelong dedication to innovation, digital transformation, and public service. Under the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Tunji-Ojo has emerged not just as a policy driver but as a symbol of results-oriented leadership in a nation hungry for change.

Since assuming office in 2023, Tunji-Ojo has rapidly transformed the Ministry of Interior from a bureaucratic relic to a dynamic powerhouse of reform. Backed by President Tinubu’s clear vision and unwavering support, he has deployed technology and policy innovation across all parastatals under the ministry’s supervision—from the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), the Federal Fire Service (FFS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

The 2023 passport reform stands tall among his achievements. He introduced a fully automated passport application process that ended years of inefficiency and corruption, drastically reducing waiting times and restoring public trust. Within his first few months in office, over 204,000 passport backlogs were cleared, and more than 50,000 new passports were processed. A centralised dashboard for real-time monitoring enhanced transparency, drawing global attention. In 2024, the United States even adopted Nigeria’s passport reform model after engaging his team.

The reform also saw the deployment of 40 e-Gates across international airports in Abuja, Lagos, Kano, Enugu, and Port Harcourt, ensuring faster, more secure passenger processing. Additionally, Tunji-Ojo launched the contactless biometric passport, taking the Nigerian travel document into the realm of modern digital identity.

On the national ID front, he spearheaded the clearance of 25 million National Identification Number (NIN) modification backlogs, further reinforcing Nigeria’s digital governance infrastructure.

NEWS

Security and border management under his leadership received a major boost with the commissioning of 30 operational vehicles dedicated to border surveillance and patrol. He also established a state-of-the-art command and control centre, strengthening real-time coordination across interior agencies.

To address Nigeria’s overcrowded prisons, Tunji-Ojo initiated a prison decongestion drive that led to the release of 4,068 low-risk inmates, with N585 million raised through corporate social responsibility contributions. This not only reformed justice outcomes but saved the government over N3 billion annually in feeding costs. Simultaneously, he oversaw the rehabilitation of several Correctional Centers, restoring dignity and functionality to Nigeria’s penal system. Under his guidance, the Ministry promoted

over 50,000 paramilitary officers—the largest in recent history—reflecting a commitment to merit and morale. He also launched the Safe School Initiative, ensuring secure learning environments amid growing security concerns.

The Federal Fire Service, once underfunded and outdated, is undergoing a revival; through remodelling its academy in Abuja, Tunji-Ojo has positioned it to serve as a regional centre of excellence for West Africa.

In the area of natural resources security, he launched the Mines Marshal initiative, empowering the NSCDC to crack down on illegal mining. Over 300 illegal miners have been arrested, thereby boosting government revenue and environmental protection.

Born on May 1, 1982, in Oyin Akoko, Ondo State, Tunji-Ojo’s leadership traits were visible

early. From his days as Senior Prefect at FUTA Staff Secondary School to earning degrees in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Digital Communication, and Networking, he built a foundation in innovation. With 18 professional ICT certifications, he became one of the UK’s first certified ethical hackers.

At just 24, he was CEO of Matrix IT Solutions Ltd., consulting for high-profile clients like NNPC, PTDF, NSIA, NCDMB, JAMB, and the World Bank. His work in digital transformation laid the groundwork for his national relevance.

Elected in 2019 to the House of Representatives, he represented Akoko North-East/North-West Federal Constituency with distinction—championing infrastructure projects and youth empowerment. Upon his inauguration, he mobilised 246 other lawmakers to support the speakership ambition of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, under the forum of first-timers lawmakers, chaired by him. Months later, he was appointed by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila as the chairman of the House Committee on Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). As chairman of the House Committee on the NDDC, he was instrumental in its rebranding and anti-corruption reforms.

A loyal party man and master strategist, he also played a critical role in the emergence of Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas as speaker and his political influence helped deliver a clean sweep of electoral victories (18:0) for his party in Ondo State. His leadership has made the Ministry of Interior a magnet for investment—attracting over $500 million in private partnerships within a year. His energy and vision have earned him accolades from the National Assembly, the Nigeria Union of Journalists, and institutions like Joseph Ayo Babalola University, which awarded him an honorary doctorate in Public Administration in 2021.

A dynamic speaker, he delivered over 50 talks in 2024 alone, addressing themes of governance, digital policy, and public reform. He has also proven himself a loyal advocate of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu, matching his words with actions and measurable impacts in the process. As Nigeria opens a new digital chapter with the launch of the e-Visa system, the story of Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo is a reminder that transformation is possible when vision meets execution. His legacy is not just in policy but in people—in the hope rekindled, the systems revived, and the future imagined. And as the sun rises on both a new national reform and the Minister’s birthday, one truth stands firm: Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo is just getting started. •Femi Salako is media consultant to the Minister of Interior.

Edo Court Reinstates Suspended LG Chair

State government revokes some appointments

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

Edo State High Court sitting in Igarra, headquarters of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area, yesterday, declared the impeachment of the elected chairman of the local government, Taju Alade, as illegal and ordered his immediate reinstatement.

This was as the Edo State Government, yesterday, approved the revocation of the appointment of Umoru Inusa Umoru as the Aidonogie of South Ibie in Etsako West Local Government Area of the stat, among others.

In his ruling, the presiding judge, Justice B. A. Okoh, directed the

Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to provide him with the needed security to resume office.

Justice Okoh, in his declarative judgment also said the court has jurisdiction contrary to the challenge by the state government that the court did not have jurisdiction.

In the suit marked B/30os/2025

between Hon Suleman Tajudeen Alade and Hon Mrs Beatrice Abukare as claimants and Honurables Alabi Oshionogue, Tope Jacon, Akosile Imashimi, Pendo Adeche, Afolabi Monday (as councilors), Akoko-Edo local government legislative council, Akoko-Edo local government council, the Vice Chairman of Akoko-Edo local

Nigeria, Mexico to Bolster Trade Relations with Inauguration of Chamber of Commerce

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Nigeria-Mexico Chamber of Commerce (NMCC) has been inaugurated to enhance trade relations between Nigeria and Mexico. The inauguration took place in Abuja on Tuesday where members of the Board of Directors were introduced to the Thepublic.Ambassador of Mexico to Nigeria, Amb. Alfredo Miranda, during the inauguration ceremony organised by the embassy in Abuja described NMCC as a new chapter in the economic, cultural and strategic relations between the two great

nations. He stated that NMCC would bridge businesses, ideas, innovation and opportunities between Nigeria and Mexico, as two countries rich in heritage, resilient in spirit and bold in ambition. According to him, the NMCC would serve as a catalyst and provide critical support to businesses from both countries, promote trade and investment, offer market intelligence and foster mutual understanding. Miranda said: “This is the moment we are certain will work, create new narrative and show to people that together Nigeria and Mexico are big

power“Thehouses. two countries do wonderful work for their continents. We have to continue working in trade; this is why it is important to focus on these strategic areas and see the capacity of some countries.

“I believe that in the future, we will have more positive figures than what we have just done.”

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, underscored the need for both countries to strengthen their bilateral ties to harness economic potential.

Tuggar, who was represented by Amb. Anderson Madubuike, Director,

Economic, Trade and Investment

Department of the ministry, said:

“There are so much that the two countries can do in advancing global economy, good enough this NMCC has come at auspicious moment.

“By talking about globalisation we are saying African countries must come together to take their rightful places in the committee of nations.”

Also speaking, the Minister of Livestock and Rural Development, Mr. Idi Mukhtar, promised to open new-vista for agriculture to thrive through adequate investment in production of red meat, animal disease management and processing of diary.

government council and the Inspec-

tor General of Police as Defendants through originating summons, Alade wanted the court to declare his purported impeachment “illegal, null and void and of no effect whatsoever” among several other demands.

Reacting to the judgment, counsel to the claimants, Asmota Anderson, said, “In the eye of the law, no impeachment was ever done in the first place. The count found that there was indeed non-compliance with the procedure stipulated under Section 19 of the Edo State local government law, and that the man was not given fair hearing before his removal and the court now went further to declare that the removal was unlawful and not in compliance with the constitution of the land and therefore null and void.

“The court set aside the removal and ordered his immediate restoration and return to office, it is a declarative judgment and implementation takes effect immediately.”

When contacted, the Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Lucky Esiegbe, said the government has filed for a stay of execution and already filed an appeal saying, the judgment would not stand.

He said he was confident that the Court of Appeal would overturn the ruling, adding that he believed that the judge was misled into a case that he had no jurisdiction.

Meanwhile, the Edo State Government has approved the revocation of the appointment of Umoru Inusa Umoru as the Aidonogie of South Ibie in Etsako West Local Government Area of the state In his place, the state government has ordered the re-instatement of Alhaji Aliyu Kelvin Danesi as the Aidenogie of South Ibie.

Similarly, the Executive Council has approved the revocation of the appointment of Lukman Akemokue as the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella in Etsako East Local Government Area of the State for failure to comply with the Declaration of Customary Law regulating succession to the throne, as enshrined in the Bendel State Legal Notice 132 of 1979.

Following the revocation, modalities have been set in motion to begin the process of selecting a new Okuokpellagbe of Okpella in line with the Extant Law.

Also approved was the immediate removal of Dr. George Oshiapi Egabor as the Okumagbe of Uwano Kingdom, Agenebode in Estako East Local Government Area of the State. Dr. George Oshiapi Egabor was earlier suspended over recent cases of incessant kidnappings and killings in his domain, and a process set in motion for the selection of a new ruler for the Kingdom in line with the Extant Laws of Edo State.

Tunji-Ojo

Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE

Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com

08033025611 sms only

Tinubu, Umo Eno and 2027 Election

Etim Etim writes about the recent clamour for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu of the all Progressives Congress by opposition People’s Democratic Party’s Governor in akwa Ibom state, Pastor Umo Eno, which, he said, may eventually change the political tide in the state.

The most topical political issue during last Easter break is Governor Umo Eno’s public endorsement of President Bola Tinubu for a second term and the discussions it’s generated across the country.

Eno is a People’s Democratic Party governor who has not hidden his affection and support for the President and the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and has succeeded in building bridges across political divide in his state.

On many occasions, he has asked Akwa Ibom people, irrespective of party leanings, to rally around the two leaders; but penultimate week, he took the platitude a notch higher.

At the flag off of the Akwa Ibom section of the controversial Lagos-Calabar coastal road on Tuesday, the governor announced

to the assembled crowd of APC and PDP chieftains that ‘’President Tinubu will be reelected for a second term and I will support him’’. APC members applauded and cheered him, while PDP chieftains looked stunned in disbelief.

At another event the following day at Ikot Ekpene township stadium, the governor repeated the same pro-Tinubu message, this time with additional flavour. ‘’I will tell you the reason when the time comes and you will see with me why we should support him so that he can complete what he started. You will see what he’s doing for our state and you will know why we should not go elsewhere’’, he said.

APC supporters and members in the audience, which included Senator Ak-

pabio’s wife, applauded; but PDP stalwarts appeared nonplussed. In return, Mrs Akpabio, apparently speaking the husband’s mind, also endorsed the governor and asked the people to support his re-election ‘’irrespective of the party you belong to’’, noting that the governor has performed well in office. She was essentially returning a favour the governor has extended to Akpabio since he was elected Senate President in 2023.

Since he assumed office two years ago, the governor has kept a safe distance from partisan controversies, but this is the first time he’d be in the news for openly rooting for his opponents.

For being the first PDP governor to break rank with his party and openly campaign for the reelection of the President, Eno has created a stir in PDP and upended political calculations in some quarters.

If this were in the Second Republic when political parties were managed almost like a military formation, the governor would be accused of anti-party activities, but this is Nigeria of 2025 when indiscipline is writ large in the parties and rules, norms and traditions are obeyed in the breach. The PDP itself has been systematically weakened by its own internal contradictions. After all, a former governor and PDP chieftain is serving in Tinubu’s cabinet as a prominent minister, and he’s using his position to further undermine the party. So, Eno is justified to chart his course.

-Etim writes from Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Sani’s Policy of Governance and Less Politics in Kaduna

mansur Umar in this piece writes about the all inclusive government devoid of politics being run by Governor Uba s ani of Kaduna s tate.

Governor Uba Sani recently made out time from his very busy schedule to speak very passionately and frankly about the essence of his unique resort to very little or no partisan politics in the administration of the very complex Kaduna State. In an exclusive interview with a TV station, Sani concedes that his inclusive governance style in Kaduna State, is not a walk in the park, but avers that an alternative to this governance method, especially a reenactment of previous options that glaringly shortchanged some parts of the State, would be counter-productive and could very easily return the state to its long-forgotten dark era of strife, restiveness and arrested development.

By May, 2023 when Senator Sani assumed office as Governor, Kaduna was among the states topping the chart of the nation’s inglorious list of flash points. A mix of recurring cases of banditry, high-level kidnappings, ethno-religious tension and general criminality bedeviled the otherwise beautiful and endowed state.

But long before he contested for the office of Governor, Sani was well aware that Kaduna’s problems stemmed largely from divisiveness and class wars. He knew that unifying all segments of the state, at all costs would all too certainly heal all wounds, mend fences and in turn, pave the way for good governance that must necessarily factor-in even the minutest

interests of the citizens in every nook and cranny of the 23 local government areas of the State, irrespective political, religious, ethnic and tribal persuasions.

In spite of this tall order, almost two years after adopting this option, Governor Sani has literally turned the entire Kaduna State to a single, large, happy and prosperous family that speak with

a voice and act in one accord. Today, Kaduna State has become a model state where good governance has outflanked politics - especially petty politics.

Having engendered the right atmosphere across the state, Sani has been devoting time, energy and huge resources to salvaging the state from the near-comatose condition he met it. In particular, deploying a deft combination of kinetic and non-kinetic options, Sani has reduced to the barest minimum, incidences of insecurity in the state. New and rehabilitated roads dot the state’s landscape; in-fact, first class roads are interlinking communities in the rural areas with urban centres and markets. In the same regards, healthcare and education are receiving unprecedented attention in all the Local Government Areas of Kaduna State under Governor Sani.

“Given my background as a civil rights activist, I made it clear to everyone (from Day One) that we must relegate politics and focus on governance. I know it’s difficult, but I believe it’s the best approach — and we’ve seen the results,” Governor Sani said during the interview.

-Umar writes from Kurmin Mashi, Kaduna.

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

Tinubu Eno

sani

Revolutionising Irrigation Farming in Katsina

In a determined push to combat food insecurity and drive sustainable agriculture, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State is pioneering a bold shift from rain-dependent farming to year-round irrigation agriculture. Through massive investments, strategic policies, and the creation of the Katsina State Irrigation Development Authority (KTIDA), his administration is not only boosting food production but also empowering rural communities, creating jobs, and building resilience against climate change, Francis Sardauna reports

In a bold stride toward achieving food security and economic resilience, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State is transforming the state’s agricultural landscape from traditional rain-fed methods to a robust, all-year-round irrigation farming system.

At the heart of this transformation is the establishment of the Katsina State Irrigation Development Authority (KTIDA)—a strategic body designed to drive the governor’s ambitious agricultural agenda.

Upon assuming office, Governor Radda recognised the critical importance of irrigation in building climate resilience and sustaining agricultural productivity. Through KTIDA, his administration is implementing sweeping interventions to revolutionise irrigation farming across the state’s 34 local government areas.

Massive Investments in Modern Irrigation

The Radda-led administration has so far invested over N8.2 billion in procuring and distributing 4,000 powered tillers, 4,000 solar-powered pumps, and 48,000 cartons of chemical fertilisers for the 2024/2025 dry season farming. These efforts are already redefining farming practices across the state.

Additionally, the government has spent N3.3 billion on advanced machinery— including six tractor drill machines, three-wheeled air compressors, and a cutter suction dredger—for dredging earth dams and drilling boreholes to enhance irrigation coverage.

Repairs to major water bodies, including the Daberam, Bakori, and Sagawa dams, are underway. A pre-feasibility study is also being conducted to develop an integrated community resettlement plan in Danja and Kwanar Are.

The administration is further investing N5.8 billion to construct the Danja Dam and rehabilitate the Yashe Earth Dam in Kusada LGA—projects aimed at ensuring adequate and potable water supply for both farming and human consumption.

Reviving the Sabke Dam Irrigation Project

Governor Radda has also expressed readiness to support the federal government’s decision to revive the Sabke Dam Irrigation Project, which boasts a storage capacity of 30.6 million cubic meters and a dispensing rate of 495 cubic meters per hour.

“When resuscitated, Sabke Dam will serve as a catalyst for modern irrigation farming,” the governor noted. “It will reduce dependency on rain-fed agriculture and promote agribusiness development across Katsina State.”

Farmers Reap the Benefits

For many farmers in Katsina, this is the most significant agricultural shift in years.

“Before, we used to experience a lot of challenges as irrigation farmers. We hire a fuel pump machine every week and it is costly. But now, the state government has given me a solar-powered pumping machine and fertiliser free of charge,” said Hamisu Mohammed, a father of 11 from Bakori.

For Salisu Tasiu from Danja, the government’s intervention has been life-changing. “The government gave us improved seeds and fertiliser. My crop yields have increased by more than 70 percent. This has greatly improved my income and livelihood,” he said.

Kusada-based farmer Usman Mu’azu shared similar sentiments: “As I speak to you now, last week we planted tomatoes

in one area after harvesting onions on the same farm. This irrigation project was long agitated for—we are happy that this administration came and actualised our dreams,” he said.

“Initially, we used to migrate to Kano and other parts of Kaduna State to work on plantation farms. But with this project, I won’t go anywhere again. I will remain here, work, and earn money.”

Another farmer, Abubakar Ishaku, appreciated the widespread support: “We are grateful to Governor Radda for supporting the expansion and rehabilitation of dams, and for assisting us with fertilisers, seedlings and modern tools. The reintroduction of irrigation farming is empowering our youth and reducing rural-urban migration.”

Government’s Scorecard in Agriculture

Speaking during a recent media chat, Deputy Governor Hon. Faruk

Lawal said:“Irrigation farming plays a crucial role in addressing food shortage, poverty, and unemployment challenges bedevilling the country.”

He explained that under Governor Radda’s “Building Your Future” strategy, thousands of farmers have been empowered with 400 tractors, 2,000 hand planters, 400 water pumping machines, 10 combine harvesters, and knapsack sprayers, in addition to mechanised inputs worth N21.7 billion.

“This is with a view to providing our farmers with required agricultural implements to boost food production in the state,” Lawal said. He further disclosed that the government has procured 20,000 metric tons of fertiliser and deployed 722 motorcycles to extension workers across 361 wards to support and monitor farming activities.

“Government has spent N790.5 million to upgrade zonal produce stores and revive the Songhai

“Therefore, Radda is diversifying the Katsina state economy by upscaling agricultural productivity through viable investments and enhancing farmers’ capacity to plug into untapped opportunities across the sector’s value chain.”

Farm Centre in Dutsin-Ma. We’re also promoting the cotton value chain for year-round farming to generate employment and economic growth,” he added.

He also mentioned that 150 women have been trained in backyard gardening and food supplement production to tackle child malnutrition.

A Need for Timeliness

While acknowledging the government’s efforts, some farmers are urging timely distribution of inputs.

“Farming largely depends on time. You must plant, apply fertiliser, and weed at the right time to get the best yield. If inputs come late, the crops will not perform well,” said Ibrahim Saminu, a farmer from Katsina. “The government should begin the input distribution process ahead of the farming season to avoid delays.”

He further called for increased funding and broader access to farming inputs for smallholder farmers across the state.

A New Agricultural Era

Despite challenges, Governor Radda’s initiatives are reshaping Katsina’s agricultural future. The shift to irrigation farming is not just about boosting yields—it’s about empowering communities, creating jobs, reducing migration, and building climate resilience.

As Deputy Governor Lawal aptly puts it: “This is not just about farming—it’s about building a sustainable, self-reliant economy for the people of Katsina State.”

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda

How Google Increased Domestic Internet Traffic from 20mbs to 1Tbps in Four Years

Emma Okonji

The acceptance by Google to connect with Internet eXchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN) in 2011, gave boost to the rapid growth rate of domestic internet traffic in Nigeria, the CEO of IXPN, Muhammed Rudman has said.

Rudman who gave the information in Lagos, while announcing the 1Terabit per second domestic internet traffic milestone achieved in Nigeria, said as at the inception of IXPN in 2007, the domestic internet traffic attained was very minimal. He however said Google became the game-changer when it connected to IXPN in 2011, and the growth rate of domestic internet traffic jumped from less than 20 Megabits per second to

120 megabits per second, before reaching 1Tbps within a space of four years.

According to Rudman, “Google peered with IXPN in 2011, and the internet traffic jumped from less than 20 Megabits per second to 120 Megabits per second, and by 2012, the traffic has increased to 600 Megabits per second. In 2019, internet traffic further increased to 125 Gigabits per second. In 2021, it reached 250 Gigabits per second, and by December 2024, internet traffic in Nigeria reached 900 Gigabits per second. As at last month, it reached a major milestone of 1 Terabit per second.”

Rudman explained that before Google connected to IXPN, as a global content provider, domesticated

internet traffic was at its lowest ebb. He however said as soon as Google connected to IXPN, other international content providers and access providers, operating in Nigeria, including local content and access providers, also connected to IXPN, a development, he said, gave boost to the rapid growth of domestic internet traffic in Nigeria. Currently, IXPN has over 130 interconnected active members. This includes industry giants such as Google, Meta (Facebook), Microsoft, TikTok, Amazon, and all Nigerian Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), among others.

Speaking about the economic impact in domesticating local traffic, Rudman said: “In terms of economic impact, apart from the

internet banking and other things that we take advantage of, we don’t really benefit much because the traffic is more of download than upload. So with what we are doing, the objective is to ensure that at least 80 per cent of our traffic is domesticated.”

While announcing the latest milestone achieved in Nigeria’s domestic internet traffic, Rudman, said the milestone signified a major leap forward in developing Nigeria’s internet infrastructure and underscores the critical role of local internet infrastructure in driving economic growth, innovation, and connectivity for millions of Nigerians.

“The milestone is more than just a number. It’s a symbol of Nigeria’s digital maturity and our

united strides towards becoming a tech-driven nation. By keeping local internet traffic within Nigeria, we reduce costs, improve speeds, and ensure our digital economy thrives with homegrown infrastructure.

Achieving 1 Tbps is a significant victory for Nigeria’s ICT ecosystem, a breakthrough for domestic internet traffic. It serves as a catalyst, enabling millions of Nigerians to enjoy faster, more affordable and resilient internet connectivity. The milestone is a game-changer for Africa’s most populous country,” Rudman said.

According to him, for mega video calls, the speed of 1 Tbps can support over one million concurrent Zoom calls, allowing students, entrepreneurs, and professionals to connect and drive Nigeria’s digital

revolution, adding that with 1 Tbps, more than 200,000 people can stream HD Nollywood films or movies on Netflix simultaneously without any buffering or interruptions. Rudman further explained that the speed would enable the transfer of the entire contents of 50,000 Smartphones, including photos, apps, and videos, in just one second.

“For Nigeria, hitting this milestone means reducing reliance on international bandwidth, decreasing latency for local services, and strengthening our position as Africa’s digital heartbeat. The milestone is a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of a faster, more connected Nigeria,” Rudman further said.

The Managing Director of Access Bank Plc, Mr. Roosevelt Ogbonna, has declared that the system of keeping African reserves outside the continent cannot work anymore.

Ogbonna made this declaration yesterday during the 2025 Access Holdings’ Media Parley with business and news editors, which had the participation of the Acting Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings, Ms. Bolaji Agbede.

He also said that the policies of President Donald Trump of United States of America are a blessing in disguise for Africa, which the continent must take advantage of.

He also ascribed the monumental growth of Access Bank to its niche

in executing disciplined mergers and acquisitions (M&As), which has enable it to be among the very top banks in Nigeria with presence in 22 African countries.

Ogbonna said: “African leaders say so much about Pan Africanism but still keep their reserves outside the continent. If they meant it, let their investments be with African banks.”

“The system of keeping African reserves outside the continent cannot work anymore. I know that the African Union (AU) had a meeting recently where they are having those conversations. Three president are leading it and we have had audience with them and told them what we as Access Bank can do and how we can accelerate that growth.”

He added that Trump has just put fuel into fire and is getting African leaders to look inward in furtherance of intra-African trade.

Ogbonna also described what outsiders perceived as the bank’s aggressive African expansion as ‘disciplined African expansion strategy.’

According to him, the bank has envisioned creating a bank that would connect the continent even before the dawning of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

He further explained that the insight for this came from the bank’s business in the United Kingdom where Access UK is one of the largest correspondence banks into the African market and the largest

correspondent market into Nigeria.

“Today we are present in all the key markets in the continent,” he said, adding that the pulling out of international correspondent banks from Africa and the emergence of AfCFTA provided both the commercial and political environment to execute the vision.

“The AfCFTA gives it the political weight to get this conversation going on. The pull out of international correspondent banks from Africa market gives us the commercial opportunity that we have to take,” he said.

Commenting on the Access Bank’s appetite for M&As, Ogbonna clarified that banking operations are all about risks and the most a banking institution could do is to ensure that

it is taking calculated risks.

He said: “Now Access Bank might be the most active in the African continent. But we have only done 22 M&As. In these 22 that we have done there is only one that has gone south, which is Ivory Coast.

“Give us more credit that we have done 22 M&As and only one was not executed with value accretion. But at least, we did not lose money in that one that went south. I think that we have gained some credibility. To put it in context, all these M&As have created the platform for the growth the bank has gone through. Many people said that acquiring Diamond Bank will overwhelm us. But we are still standing. Rather, acquiring

Diamond Bank only made us a much larger institution.”

“It is through these M&A that is viewed as risky that we get to where we are now. At least we have demonstrated that we have capacity around it. Every bank is good at something, we just happen to be very good at this one,” he said. Ogbonna also disclosed that Access Bank is partnering with Lagos and Ogun States that are willing to provide land and infrastructure to execute mortgage projects, and has signed agreement with Lagos State in October 2024 to start with creating 2000 homes. He said that Access Bank would extend the partnership to any state government that would commit to it.

Dike Onwuamaeze

Driving Digital Transformation in Telecoms Sector

At 72 years, the Chairman of Globacom, Mike Adenuga Jnr is still passionate about digital transformation in the telecoms sector, given the company’s initiatives and support for telecoms growth in Nigeria, which align with federal government’s initiative, writes emma okonji

Given the importance broadband in driving digital transformation in the telecoms sector and in the Nigerian economy, the federal government is investing $2 billion to expand Nigeria’s fibre optic network by laying additional 90,000 kilometres of fibre optic cable, aimed at increasing broadband penetration and digital infrastructure.

Telecoms analysts are of the view that the federal government’s initiative to lay additional 90,000 kilometres of fibre optic cable will boost broadband penetration and telecoms contribution to GDP. They are also of the view that the current reforms taking place in the telecoms sector, such as the recent hike in the cost of telecoms tariffs for voice and data, will also improve quality of service across networks.

Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer at MTN Nigeria, Tobechukwu Okigbo, had said at a telecoms forum in Lagos that the 50 per cent hike in telecoms tariff would help save the telecoms industry from sliding into inflation and that in less than three months from the date of implementation of the 50 per cent tariff hike, Nigerians would begin to experience improved quality service across networks.

Although telecoms contribution to Gross Domestic Product (GDP), is a function of a combination of broadband subscriptions and broadband penetration, among other variables, the latest statistics on telecoms contribution to Nigeria’s GDP, released by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), revealed that the telecoms sector is making significant contribution to GDP, despite the fluctuations.

According to the statistics, as at Q1 2023, telecoms contribution was 14.13 per cent, which increased to 16.06 per cent in Q2 2023, before dropping to 13.50 per cent in Q3 2023, but increased to 14 per cent in Q4 2023. In Q1 2024, it increased again to 14.58 per cent, with a further increase to 16.36 per cent in Q2 2024. Telecoms contribution to GDP however dropped to 13.94 per cent in Q3 2024, according to NCC’s statistics. But despite the fluctuations in telecoms contribution to GDP, Globacom has remained passionate about sustaining telecoms revolution and ensuring that telecoms consumers have real value for all telecoms services rendered by telecoms operators, which are paid for by the consumers.

It all started with the introduction of per second billing system at the very inception of Globacom’s entrance into the telecoms industry in 2003, at a time

when existing telecoms operators were billing in minutes and rounding off every call that ended in seconds into minutes, and compelling consumers to pay in minutes for all voice calls.

Per SeconD Billing

Per second billing system, which all telecoms subscribers are currently enjoying across all networks, was introduced by Globacom in 2003, when it rolled out its telecoms services to the Nigerian subscribers. Before 2003, the existing telecoms operators were billing in minutes and were rounding off every call that ended in seconds into minutes and the subscribers were charged in minutes. At that time, if a call ended in five minutes and one second, the call would be automatically rounded off to six minutes and the subscriber is charged for six minutes in line with the call rate.

Although telecoms subscribers saw it then as a rip-off, and wondered why calls that ended in seconds were billed in minutes, but the existing operators at that time, told them that the billing

system had already been configured to charge in minutes and that it was not possible to change the billing system to per second billing.

The narrative however changed when Globacom came up with per second billing system from the inception of its service rollout in 2003, a development that forced other operators to immediately changed their billing systems to per second billing and till date, all telecoms subscribers are enjoying per second billing system, that allows them to pay for the exact time spent on a particular call, which translates to paying less, compared to per minute billing system.

AfforDABle inTerneT

Service

With the landing of Glo 1 submarine cable in 2010, Globacom was able to crash the cost of internet service in Nigeria, thereby giving access to more Nigerians to connect to the internet and deepening broadband penetration in the country.

Currently, Nigeria has over 164 million active

internet subscriptions, with majority of the subscriptions linked to GLo1 submarine cable.

Internet connectivity from various submarine cables like Glo 1, West African Submarine Cable (WASC), African Coast to Europe (ACE) submarine cable and MainOne submarine cable, which have landing points at the shores of Nigeria, have been providing stable internet access to various Internet Service Providers (ISPs) across the country, until some of the cables had major disruptions in March this year, except Glo1, which remained resilient and unaffected.

On March 14, 2024, 13 African countries, including Nigeria, faced internet disruptions as a result of major cuts on the affected subsea cables which led to operational downtime for all businesses connected to the internet, including banks, where bank customers could not carry out banking transactions for hours.

Internet Service Providers (ISPs), as well as broadband connectivity providers, that were connected to the affected submarine cables, were completely disconnected from the internet and from the broadband connections, as they could not provide connectivity access to their customers in banks, schools, churches, mosques, business centres, call centres as well as to organisations across different sectors of the economy.

The disruption was caused by multiple cuts in the submarine cable around the coast line of Senegal and Cote d’ Ivoire.

The affected 13 countries include: Cote d’ Ivoire, Liberia, Benin Republic, Ghana, Burkina Faso, Togo, Cameroon, Gabon, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Lesotho, and parts of South Africa.

The affected submarine cables came from Europe, and passed through the East Coast of Africa. The West African Submarine Cable (WASC), African Coast to Europe (ACE) submarine cable and MainOne submarine cable that have landing ducts at the shores of Nigeria, were affected by the multiple cuts.

But Glo1, which has so much resilience and capacities to connect and provide internet access, was not affected in any way. During the period of massive internet disconnections, Glo1 was still providing uninterrupted internet services to its customers, thereby making it possible for all ISPs connected to the Glo1 submarine cable to be able to provide internet services to all their customers.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

consolidation, fresh Strategies as Businesses Take on Q2

With a seeming stability in policies and the economy, the first quarter of 2025 has been leveraged by businesses to adjust to the current economic reality, as well as designing strategies that will enable them a smooth sail in the year, raheem Akingbolu reports

Technology-enABleD ecoSySTem

For Coronation Group, its ambition to deepen operation and extend its frontiers in 2025 is already gathering momentum, considering the continuous market acceptability of the group’s technology-enabled ecosystem.

As a leading financial services conglomerate, providing an array of solutions through technology, Coronation, as a leading African financial services conglomerate, is currently offering expertise across Insurance, Asset Management, Banking, and Technology. With a steadfast commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainability, the company has consistently crafted enduring financial solutions that drive wealth creation for individuals and institutions.

With a vision to transform the African continent, Coronation is working as a trusted prosperity partner in 2025 to provide transformational solutions for Africa’s challenges, in a way that would enable clients to build legacies through sustainable wealth creation.

Coronation Group operates a diversified portfolio of businesses across four key sectors: Insurance, Asset Management, Banking, and Technology. The companies under the Group include; Coronation Life Assurance Limited, Coronation General Insurance Limited and Coronation Insurance Ghana. The group’s non-banking companies are; Coronation Asset Management Limited, Coronation Registrars Limited, Coronation Capital Limited, Coronation Securities Limited and Coronation Trustees Limited. In the banking sector, the group’s Coronation Merchant Bank Limited is also a leading player while Trium Limited and Fiducia are making different positioning statements in

the technology.

UBA’S regionAl exPAnSion

At the twilight of 2024, while stakeholders at the United Bank for Africa (UBA), were still relishing the success recorded in the year as indicated by KPMG Customer Experience Survey in 2024, the news dropped that the bank would embark on another regional expansion in 2025, this time to Saudi Arabia and Mozambique. It was also indicated that UBA will be deepening its French licence as well as entrenching its customer-centric focus in the light of its success over the years.

At a send-forth dinner in honour of the bank’s retired non-executive directors in Abuja in December last year, it’s CEO, Oliver Alawuba, quoted the bank’s chairman that the Saudi Arabia’s office would be opened this year. According to feelers from the bank, the process to open the Saudi Arabia and Mozambique UBA offices are nearing

completion. The bank currently operates with over 25,000 staff and serves more than 45 million customers across 24 countries.

As part of the strategies being put in place to weather the storm in 2025, the bank has restated its commitment to offer innovative products driven by technology as well as improved staff welfare to boost productivity.

DAngoTe refinery meeTS locAl DemAnD

As predicated by some experts on the capacity of the Dangote group to address the challenges in the oil and gas sector of the economy, the group has recently announced that the Dangote Refinery is now refining 57 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, daily.

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This production capacity is sufficient to meet 100 per cent of Nigeria’s local demand for refined petroleum products.

Speaking during a tour of the refinery complex by a Zambian government delegation, the President of Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), Aliko Dangote revealed that his company – the Dangote Petroleum Refinery – has enough Premium Motor Spirit (PMS otherwise known as petrol) in storage to sufficiently meet the local needs of Nigeria.

Dangote disclosed that the oil refinery has “more than half a billion litres of petroleum and over N600 billion worth of products in its tanks.

Dangote said: “As we speak right now we have more than half a billion litres. The refinery is producing enough refined products, like gasoline, diesel, and kerosene, to meet 100 per cent of Nigeria’s requirements.”

Speaking after a tour of the refinery complex by a Zambia Government delegation, led by the country’s Minister of Energy, Makozo Chikote, Dangote stated that the refinery project, like other projects in the past, is not for Nigeria alone.

“This refinery is not only for Nigeria; it is for Africa. We must sustain the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) deal. We are trying to see how we trade with other African countries,” Dangote said.

The Zambian Minister of Energy said his takeaway from the Dangote Refinery working visit was that the President, Aliko Dangote, is truly focused on the bigger picture for Africa.

Chikote, who led a delegation of energy experts to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery to partner Zambia on energy solutions, expressed satisfaction and readiness to work with the African manufacturing giant.

L-R: Chairman/CEO Air Peace, Dr. Allen Onyema; Director Legal Services,Nigeria Air Space Management Agency (NAMA), Mrs. Rita Egbadon; Host, Director of Aviation Security, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Dr. Ben Omogo; Chief Host, Director General NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo; Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Ibrahim Kana; former DG NCAA, Dr. Harold Demuren; Managing Director, Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN, Mrs.

and Director, Policy and Plans ONSA, Air Commodore Madawaki Ahmad Abubakar, at NCAA Aviation Security Stakeholders Symposium in Lagos…yesterday

UK’s Manufacturing Africa, TLG Capital Partner to Boost Investment in Nigeria

Stories by Emma Okonji

Manufacturing Africa (MA), one of the United Kingdom (UK’s) flagship economic development programmes for Africa, has signed a strategic partnership agreement with London-based investment firm TLG Capital to strengthen and improve the eligibility of Nigerian manufacturing companies to raise capital through TLG’s Africa Growth Impact Fund II (AGIF II).

In a significant milestone, TLG Capital also confirmed the first close of the TLG AGIF II fund, raising $75 million towards its $200 million target. The fund is anchored by the World Bank’s International Finance Corporation (IFC) and backed by a coalition of forward-looking investors: Swedfund, Norfund, and Bpifrance.

In view of this, the first Nigerian company enlisted for

the UK Manufacturing Africa’s support to raise $7.5 million debt finance under the arrangement is Terra Aqua; an aluminium recycler based in Ogun State.

The deal has the potential to create 200 direct jobs and 752 indirect jobs utilising a recycling process that requires 95 per cent less energy than producing primary aluminium.

Speaking about the initiative, the UK Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Mr.

Jonny Baxter, said: “A strong manufacturing sector is key to driving economic growth and industrialisation in Nigeria and across Africa. By supporting TLG Capital, we’re fostering greater capital flows into Nigeria, which in turn supports job creation, generates wealth and secures a prosperous future.”

Manufacturing Africa

programme Team Leader Thomas Pascoe said: “This landmark investment emphasises the scale of the development opportunity in manufacturing across Africa.

Manufacturing Africa has already helped create 102,000 jobs through the $2.4bn of FDI we have supported, and we look forward to working closely with TLG Capital to support investments by the

AGID II fund.”

Co-Founder of TLG Capital, Isha Doshi said: “Today, one in four SME loans in Africa is under stress, and yet, the entrepreneurial spirit is unshaken. AGIF II is about capital that understands context—financing that’s flexible, strategic, and backed by advisory horsepower from Manufacturing Africa.”

Yellow Card Releases Free eBook to Unlock Business Growth

Yellow Card, Africa’s leading regulated stablecoin payments provider, has released a comprehensive new eBook titled: ‘Unlock the Future of Business Expansion with Payment APIs’.

The free resource aims to empower businesses across Nigeria and the continent with the insights they need to scale in today’s fast-evolving, digital-first economy.

Speaking about the initiative, Director of Partnerships at Yellow Card, Sean van Kerckhoven, explained the motivation behind

Senator Solomon Olamilekan, also known as Senator Yayi, representing Ogun West Senatorial District, has once again demonstrated his commitment to youth development and capacity building through a strategic partnership with New Horizons Nigeria.

The initiative, which aimed to train 1,000 youths across Ogun State, was designed to equip young people with the Information Technology (IT) skills that will help them thrive in today’s digital economy.

By Agnes Ekebuike

Rural Electrification Agency (REA), has reiterated its commitment to partner LPV Technologies, a solar panel company to address the issue of capital flight on renewable energy in the country.

The Managing Director of REA, Abba Aliyu gave the commitment during a recent facility tour of LPV’s state-of-the-art solar panel production plant in Lagos, where he lauded LPV Technologies, Nigeria’s first vertically integrated solar manufacturing and renewable energy services firm, for its groundbreaking contributions to the country’s energy transition and

the eBook, saying: “At Yellow Card, we believe that knowledge should never be gatekept. By releasing this eBook, we’re not just showcasing the power of payment APIs—we’re opening up access to practical tools and frameworks that can help African businesses grow.

Whether you’re a fintech, ecommerce player, or traditional enterprise, this is about unlocking your potential in an interconnected economy.”

The guide includes real-world use cases and best practices for integrating APIs, offering readers a practical

The training is focused on high-demand tech skills, targeted at young people from Ogun West Senatorial District.

The training institute reaffirmed its readiness to deliver top-tier training that will meet global standards. Beyond the training, Senator Yayi further empowered the youths by providing them with relevant tools to continue their development and to remain competitive in the evolving tech world.

Speaking about the initiative,

job creation objectives.

Aliyu described LPV Technologies as one of the most efficient factories in Nigeria, emphasising its strategic importance to the national energy transition plan. He reiterated that Nigeria needs approximately $410 billion to achieve a complete energy transition and at least $40 billion to bridge its electricity access gap.

“As a country with the greatest potential for distributed renewable energy, Nigeria, only created 70,000 jobs in the sector last year compared to China’s seven million out of a global 14 million,” Aliyu said, adding that Nigeria must turn its electricity access challenge into job creation opportunity.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman

roadmap to navigating Africa’s diverse regulatory environments and currency complexities. It also emphasises the growing role of crypto-powered payments in facilitating faster, cheaper, and more transparent transactions. “Yellow Card’s commitment to financial inclusion and innovation is evident in its continued efforts to democratise access to advanced financial infrastructure. The eBook serves as yet another step in building a more informed, empowered business ecosystem in Africa,” Kerckhoven further said.

CEO of New Horizons, Mr. Tim Akano said: “The initiative stands as a beacon of what public-private partnerships could achieve when driven by genuine intent and strategic planning. Senator Yayi’s continued investment in the future of Ogun youths is not only commendable but visionary. By planting seeds in the digital economy, he is preparing a generation that will not only survive but lead in the global tech ecosystem.”

of LPV Technologies, Mr. Nzan Ogbe, emphasised the strategic importance of decentralised energy infrastructure to reduce the cost of power across Nigeria. He reaffirmed LPV’s commitment to supporting government efforts by building clean energy systems that are easy to deploy, resilient to traditional grid limitations, and adaptable to local contexts.

“The biggest challenge in Africa today is not just corruption but energy insecurity and the immunities around power. That’s what we have settled to address. What we’re doing here is more than production; it’s about creating affordable and scalable opportunities for energy access,” Ogbe said.

Olubunmi Kuku

PHOTO: KOLAWOLE ALLI

ProPerty & environment

UPDC Finance Costs Reducing, Coy in Upward Trajectory, Says MD, Ojo

Bennett Oghifo

The Managing Director of UPDC PLC., Mr. Odunayo Ojo has said that the company’s finance costs have continually reduced to the point where now they are actually having positive income.

Ojo, who stated this at a recent press briefing, also said UPDC is on an upward trajectory and that this performance would be sustained.

“We are on an upward trajectory and with all the hard work of our management and staff and also the support of our customers and our stakeholders, we believe that this performance will be sustained.”

Ojo said finance costs, which was one of the issues that UPDC had in the past, “have continually reduced to the point where now we are actually having positive income.

“So that’s also some of the strategies that we have to put in

place to restructure our capital base, restructure our cash flow to ensure we are poised for a brighter future.”

According to Ojo, “Property development continues to be a key driver of the business. We have a N9.2 billion contribution to turnover. Advancing services, that is just started but we anticipate that there will be a continuous growth segment overall in the business.

“Hospitality is our second largest contributor to revenue at N1.4 billion, almost N1.5 billion and then followed by facility management which is 924 plus other income, was able to cross N1 billion last year to give us our total revenue N11.78billion.”

On expected growth, Ojo said,

“Some key insights is to see that the hotel continues to grow in spite of what we saw after COVID-19. After COVID-19, the hospitality industry was almost ground to a halt because of the

restrictions. But after that, we reopened this hotel (Festival Hotel) in 2022 after COVID-19 and we’ve continually seen the growth of the business. So that’s an area where we also want to take on investment, improve infrastructure and grow that part of the business.

“Our assets continue to grow as a business. So at the end of last year, the size was about N30.9 billion. Our shareholder funds have also grown, which means that as the company grows and as our capital grows, we will see a very strong response.”

UPDC, he said, intends “To target, beyond just the middle class, we also want to look at young professionals. The young professionals are a group of customers that a lot of developers are not focused on adequately. Because the young shall grow, if you look at what has happened in other parts of

the world, people enter the real estate market just shortly after they leave school and they get into the labour market.

“What has hampered us in Nigeria has been the lack of proper mortage facilities that will allow you to pay low interest

rates for a long period. But the good news is that we are seeing some initiatives in the market today that could support this product.

“So the first point there is that we are creating new urban centers. We are trying to move away from the usual prospects in terms of Lekki-Epe expressway in terms of Lekki Phase One, in terms of Ikeja GRA and all those emerging locations. “We want to start looking at creating new urban centers in places that can support this kind of product.”

Ojodu Building Collapse, Repeat of Avoidable Errors, Says BCPG

Bennett Oghifo

The collapse of a three-storey building (with three suspended floors proceeding to fourth storey) under construction at No 10, Oremeta Street, Ojodu, Lagos, on Saturday, 19th April, 2025, was a stab on the collective conscience of members of the Building Collapse Prevention Guild in Ojodu.

This is contained in a statement signed by the Coordinator, BCPG Ojodu Cell, Mr. Abiodun Adegoke, a Surveyor; General Secretary, BCPG Ojodu Cell, Mr.

Dom Ibeh, an architect; Public Relations Officer, BCPG Ojodu Cell, Mr. Femi Ishola, a builder.

“The pain and regret within became severe as the number of casualties being unearthed in the rubble increased daily. Eventually, a total of 7 dead bodies were recovered, while 13 persons sustained injuries, according to the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency.

“The fact that this particular collapse with its accompanying loss of innocent lives was preventable made the wound

inflicted on our conscience difficult to heal.

“How did the notorious and daring building collapse sandwich itself between Good Friday and Easter Sunday, thereby committing an unpardonable sin? It was really pathetic.

“Sadly, the cause of this collapse was the non- implementation of the recommendations made following a similar collapse in that locality about 12 years ago.

“On Tuesday, 7th May, 2013, a four- storey building under construction at No 15, Bashiru

Street, Ojodu, Lagos collapsed, killing one person. According to information, the building, which was initially a bungalow, was acquired by Four Square Gospel Church.

“The following day, Wednesday, 8th May, 2013, standing by the site of the collapsed building, the then Commissioner of the Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Tpl. Toyin Ayinde held a meeting with members of the Building Collapse Prevention Guild (BCPG) Ojodu Cell over the investigation of the

collapsed building.

“Unravelling the cause(s) of the collapsed building would help avert a recurrence.

“The building was already being used for church services while the upper storeys were being added/constructed gradually. The building collapsed as construction work resumed on the fourth storey.

Important lessons were learnt.

“Firstly, the danger of occupying a building that was under construction was identified.This defied the certification for fitness for habitation, which has been

a prerequisite for occupation of the building.

“Secondly, the danger inherent in the increase of floors/ height of a building over a long period of time was amplified.

“The structural integrity of an uncompleted building that has been exposed to the weather for a long period of time needed to be ascertained before additional loads could be imposed. Faveolate ferroconcrete absorbs water to the detriment of the intrinsic tensile strength possessed by the steel reinforcement bars.

E4 Summit Calls for Urgent Investment in Nigeria’s Glass Future

Fadekemi Ajakaiye

Leaders in sustainable development, academia, and industry gathered recently at the University of Lagos for the E4 Glass Innovation Summit, hosted by UNILAG and the Arcline Beehive Design Foundation (ABDF).

In her keynote address, Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih-Awokoya, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on SDGs, urged participants to reimagine glass not just as a material, but as a movement for sustainability, health, and economic growth.

“Glass is a bridge between

our buildings and our responsibility to the environment,”

Dr. Finnih-Awokoya said.

“Innovation without intention is not enough. Every pane of glass must be a commitment to a greener, healthier, and more resilient future.”

Highlights from the Summit included: The role of glass

technologies in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); The economic potential of a national glass industry to diversify Nigeria’s economy beyond oil; Innovations such as smart glass and solar control glazing that dramatically improve building energy

efficiency; and Glass as a safer, recyclable alternative to plastics in addressing Nigeria’s environmental challenges.

Architect Adeolu Okulaja, Chair of ABDF’s Board of Trustees, stressed that “Nigeria has the ingredients to become a leader in glass manufacturing. If properly harnessed, glass could rival oil as a key driver of our economy.”

The Summit concluded with a strong call for public and private investment in research, infrastructure, and training programmes that will position Nigeria at the forefront of glass innovation in Africa.

How Nigeria’s Mobile Money Success Offers Insights into Era of AI Prosperity

Ola Williams

By the close of 2023, the total GDP of countries using mobile money services was $720 billion higher than it would have been without the proliferation of those services. And at the heart of the world’s mobile money revolution lies Sub-Saharan Africa, leading the market’s growth with over

1.1 billion registered accounts. Without question, mobile services have become a formidable financial force in this region. Underpinning this economic metamorphosis was the introduction of the Internet. As connectivity swept across Africa, so mobile money services flourished, extending financial lifelines to millions of unbanked individuals and catapulting nations like Nigeria to the forefront of the global mobile money arena. It’s estimated that in 2023, more than a third of newly registered and active 30-day accounts originated from West Africa, with Nigeria one of the primary drivers of this growth.

Throughout history, there have been general-purpose technologies (GPTs) that have sparked industrial revolutions and redefined entire economies, acting as catalysts for widespread innovation and growth. The Internet is one of those game-

changing technologies, having transformed every sector it touched and setting the stage for unparalleled economic development.

In Nigeria, the financial services industry (FSI) has adeptly embraced GPTs like the Internet, with trailblazing enterprises like Flutterwave, Paga and OPay leveraging connectivity to revolutionise business models and unlock immense growth potential.

Widely recognised as the next great GPT, AI is expected to define the fourth industrial revolution, creating ‘flywheel’ effects that will propel organisations into new realms of innovation and opportunity at an unprecedented pace. According to the World Trade Organisation, artificial intelligence could contribute $136 billion in productivity gains, cost savings, and increased revenues to countries in SSA by 2030. Nigeria is expected to

benefit from 43 percent of this amount due to its proactive AI strategy.

As the country once again finds itself at the brink of an opportunity to add billions to its GDP and export marketleading solutions – the question is what can we learn from the FSI sector’s incredible success with mobile internet to harness the next great wave of AI-driven innovation?

Addressing critical gaps in the market

Many of Nigeria’s most famous mobile money exports began with a vision to transform access to financial services, making it possible for previously unbanked individuals to open bank accounts swiftly, transact effortlessly, and secure loans with ease. As a result, the percentage of Nigerians with access to banking services surged by nearly 16 percent between 2011 and

2021. Leading FSI companies also played a pivotal role in expanding access to credit, using innovative methods to offer loans with minimal documentation. By harnessing data on how customers engage with specific applications, they bridge the gap in a country where only two percent of adults currently have bank credit. This scenario paved the way for mobile money services to thrive, offering a convenient and accessible alternative for financial transactions.

In much the same way, the key to success with AI in Nigeria will lie in understanding and addressing the country’s unique challenges. It’s about recognising the complexities, prioritising areas where AI can make a real difference and working closely with stakeholders to create solutions that are not only technologically sound but also culturally relevant and beneficial

to local communities.

Driving regulatory support

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has been instrumental in nurturing the growth of mobile money services in the nation. By introducing a comprehensive regulatory framework, the CBN set the stage for mobile money operators to thrive. This framework is not just a set of guidelines; it includes crucial provisions for Know Your Customer (KYC) and Customer Due Diligence (CDD) requirements, which ensure operators properly identify their customers and assess risks before offering their services. It’s a robust system that has significantly contributed to the seamless operation and widespread acceptance of mobile money in Nigeria.

-Ola Williams, Managing Director, Microsoft Nigeria and Ghana

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, UPDC, Mr. Odunayo Ojo; President/CEO, PR Africa, Prince Dapo Adelegan; Managing Dirctor, UPDC FM Limited, Ms. Tokunbo Lawal; and Chief Commercial Officer, UPDC, Mr. Priye Johnson, at a media briefing on the development and progress of the company in Amuwo Odofin, Lagos… recently

Court Varies Mareva Injunction, Allows Kam Industries to Pay Workers’ Wages

Wale Igbintade

Justice Daniel Osiagor of the Federal High Court in Lagos has modified a mareva injunction in the dispute between Ecobank Nigeria Plc and Kam Industries Nigeria Limited over an alleged $9.5 million credit transaction.

In a recent ruling, the court granted Kam Industries a onetime release of N500 million to pay outstanding salaries to over 4,000 employees nationwide.

The original mareva injunction, granted on October 7, 2024, had frozen assets across 25 banks and financial institutions linked to the defendants, pending the determination of the main suit (FHC/L/ CS/1748/2024).

Other defendants include Dr. Kamoru Yusuf and Kamsteel Integrated Company.

The variation followed a motion on notice filed by Chief Afolabi Fashanu (SAN), lead

counsel for Kam Industries, who asked the court to temporarily lift the ex parte order to allow limited access to funds.

The application was brought under Orders 26 Rule 10(1)–(3) and 28 Rule 1(1)(3) of the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules 2019, as well as Sections 6(6) and 36 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), and the court’s inherent jurisdiction.

Granting the request, Justice Osiagor held that the court had the authority to entertain the application and emphasised that the relief was necessary to keep the company operational, preserve jobs, and protect injured workers.

He also encouraged both parties to seek an amicable settlement and report back to the court.

Earlier, Ecobank’s counsel, Mr. Kemi Balogun (SAN), informed the court that a

Notice of Appeal and Stay of Proceedings had been filed, challenging the court’s jurisdiction.

He argued that since the court had already heard the originating summons and adjourned to June 4, 2025, for ruling, the case could not be relisted without an application for abridgment of time.

In response, Chief Fashanu maintained that the court had inherent jurisdiction to hear the motion and noted that the hearing notice issued was standard practice in Federal High Courts.

In a bench ruling, Justice Osiagor granted the application, permitting the N500 million disbursement.

Kam Industries supported the application with a 28-paragraph affidavit deposed to by Olumide Abdulkareem, Executive Director of Global Business Development and Legal.

Ekiti State, CIS to Partner on Financial Intelligence Training

The Ekiti State Government and Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS) have agreed to collaborate in capacity building on financial intelligence for top-level government officials in line with the Institute’s financial literacy programme.

Besides, plans are underway to introduce Bachelor Degree Programme in Securities and Investment at Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti as part of the plan to attract youths into the Nigerian financial market.

“The leadership of the Institute identifies with the various fiscal reforms, initiatives, policies and ongoing infrastructural developments of the Government and this courtesy visit is part of our effort to explore areas of collaboration and strategic partnership that will further enhance economic growth of the state,” Dada said.

Responding, Governor Biodun Oyebanji who expressed

In his address at the Ekiti State Government House yesterday, the 13th President and Chairman of Council, CIS, Oluropo Dada, explained that the Institute had capacity to train the State’s top civil servant on financial intelligence. Dada also noted that as part of the strategy to attract youths into the Nigerian financial market, Ekiti State University should introduce Bachelor’s Degree in Securities and Investment in the state universities to build a solid foundation of investment for the youths.

gratitude to the Institute’s Council Member for the interest in the development of Ekiti State, assured them of the State’s willingness to collaborate in all the areas of request.

He said, “Our government appreciates the roles of the capital market in the development of any economy. We have raised long-term fund from the market in the past for development projects and the projects are doing well today. We shall deepen our relationship with the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers. We are willing to collaborate in training of government workers in financial intelligence to equip them with basic tools to manage resources after retirement.”

Bellazir Energy to Transform Nigeria’s Petroleum Products Marketing Business

Uzoho

Bellazir Energy Limited, a forward-looking player in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum industry has been launched with a bold vision to transform the sale and distribution of products with innovative solutions.

Bellazir is a Nigerian-owned company focused on the distribution and marketing of petroleum products across the country. The new Christabel Aniemeka-led petroleuum marketer officially launched in Lagos, said it was poised to revolutionize fuel distribution in Nigeria through innovation, reliability, and a strong commitment to sustainability.

With a strong emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and

service excellence, Bellazir aims to become a trusted partner in Nigeria’s energy future.

“Today, we gather not just to launch a company, but to ignite a movement — a bold new chapter in Nigeria’s energy story. Our mission at Bellazir Energy is clear: to deliver efficient, sustainable, and world-class petroleum product distribution that powers industries, energizes enterprises, and uplifts communities,” Aniemeka said in her welcome address while underscoring the company’s bold ambition to reshape the energy landscape.”

Thr Keynote speaker at the occasion and Chairman of Energy Institute Nigeria, Mr. Osten Olorunsola, who delivered a compelling address on the future of petroleum products

distribution, commended Bellazir Energy’s leadership for taking timely and courageous steps during a period of global energy transition.

“The global energy landscape is undergoing profound transformation. Initiatives like Bellazir’s are not only timely but essential to Nigeria’s energy future,” Olorunsola stated.

He highlighted eight key dynamics shaping the future of energy distribution, namely Multi-Energy Hubs to meet evolving demand, including electric vehicles (EV) charging and alternative fuels; Decarbonization Imperatives to support environmental goals through blended and low-sulphuRealitiesand Geopolitical Realities requiring more resilient regional supply systems.

TeaStoria: Revolutionizing the Tea Industry in Nigeria

Nigeria’s tea culture is brewing with bold innovation as TeaStoria, the country’s leadingReady-To-Drink (RTD) tea brand, continues to redefine how Nigerians consume and experiencetea. As the pioneer of Boba tea in Nigeria, TeaStoria is charting new territory in the localbeverage market by merging flavor, function, and lifestyle through a range of creativelypackaged tea

beverages and a serene urban hangout outlet in the heart of Lagos.

TeaStoria iscurrently revolutionizing the tea industry in Nigeria with Boba Tea, a Variety of Tea Flavors,Urban Culture, and Innovation. Founded by the vision of local Lagos natives, TeaStoria is not just ofering tea, it’s crafting anexperience while driving economic development through urbanization. With

an exciting menu ofinnovative tea flavors, ranging from fruit-infused blends to creamy bubble tea variants andtoppings, and a customizable flavor option, TeaStoria is setting a new standard for beverageculture in Nigeria’s rapidly growing ready-to-drink (RTD) space.“TeaStoria was created to ofer more than just tea. It’s about community, economic growth,comfort, and creativity.

Basrah

(Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

L-R: 2nd Vice President , Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS), Dr Akeem Oyewale; President, Oluropo Dada; Executive Governor, Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji; 2nd Vice President, CIS , Fiona Ahimie and Registrar and Chief Executive, Ayorinde Adeonipekun, during courtesy visit of CIS’ Council Members to the governor at State House , Ado Ekiti in Ekiti State... recently

Peter

Shareholders Affirm FCMB Group’s Dividend, Closes FY2024 With N7.1trn Assets

Kayode Tokede

FCMB Group Plc convened its 12th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Lagos on April 29, 2025, where shareholders endorsed the Group’s 2024 financial results and approved key resolutions to drive future growth and strengthen governance.

FCMB Group closed 2024 with total assets of N7.1 trillion and deposits of N4.3 trillion. The

Group’s digital transformation gathered pace as digital revenues reached N101.9 billion, accounting for 13 per cent of gross earnings, while loans grew 28 per cent to N2.4 trillion. The company’s non-banking divisions also achieved impressive growth, accounting for over 30 per cent of the Group’s total profits. Investment Management’s Assets Under Management grew by 35 per cent YoY to N1.4 trillion.

The Capital Markets business sustained its performance, with gross earnings and PBT growing YoY by 57 per cent and 62 per cent, respectively.

Lending to SMEs, agriculture, and women-owned businesses exceeded N425 billion, N271 billion and N30 billion, growing year on year by 31 per cent, 33 per cent and 68 per cent respectively, demonstrating FCMB’s commitment to its purpose of fostering inclusive growth.

Speaking at the AGM, Chairman of FCMB Group, Mr. Oladipupo Jadesimi, commended the Group’s diversified business model and the resilience of its workforce. “As we navigate an evolving economic landscape, we remain resolute in our mission, leveraging our Group structure and collective strengths to build a future where excellence is not only measured by our achievements but by the positive and sustainable impact we create.

This commitment is grounded on the deliberate consideration of facilitating sustainable business growth and capital requirements, with the overarching goal of optimising long-term value for our shareholders.”

The Group Chief Executive, Ladi Balogun, stated: “Despite the challenging business landscape, our performance in 2024 was sustained by the commitment and professionalism of our talented staff, as well as the resilience

demonstrated by each of our operating companies.” He emphasised that: “Going into 2025 and beyond, we expect more significant and diversified contributions from digitisation with a focus on digital onboarding, payments, and artificial intelligence. We will also reinforce our culture of excellence and extend the power of the Group in building a supportive ecosystem in fulfilment of our purpose.

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 25 April-2025, unless otherwise stated.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS

HealtH & lifestyle

Codix Bio to Revolutionise Diagnostics in Africa with Nigeria’s First Large-scale RDT Manufacturing Facility

In a landmark move that would transform Nigeria’s healthcare landscape, Codix Pharma Ltd is preparing to inaugurate Codix Bio Ltd, the country’s first large-scale facility for the local production of rapid diagnostic test kits. Located in Sagamu, Ogun State, Chiemelie Ezeobi reports that the state-of-the-art plant is expected to begin operations this May, marking a significant step towards reducing Africa’s dependence on imported medical diagnostics and boosting regional health self-reliance

Chiemelie Ezeobi

In a transformative leap for Nigeria’s healthcare landscape, Codix Pharma Ltd has unveiled plans for the commissioning of Codix Bio Ltd, a cutting-edge in-vitro diagnostics (IVD) manufacturing facility set to begin operations in May 2025 in Sagamu, Ogun State.

The facility, the first of its scale in Nigeria and only the second in sub-Saharan Africa, will manufacture rapid diagnostic test (RDT) kits for diseases such as malaria, HIV, and hepatitis B and C. This marks a significant step in reducing Africa’s overdependence on imported test kits, over 90% of which are currently sourced from Europe, Asia, North America, and the Middle East.

At a press briefing in Lagos, recently, Mary Ogangwu, Chief Operating Officer of Codix Pharma, described the project as a gamechanger for the continent’s healthcare sector.

“This is bigger than us. It is about what is possible for Africa,” Ogangwu said. “For over two decades, Nigeria has imported these kits. Codix Bio is our answer to that dependency, a local solution to a continental problem.”

Founded in 2008, Codix Pharma began with a focus on pharmaceuticals targeting diabetes and cardiovascular conditions. But recognising a pressing need for accessible and accurate diagnostic tools, the company strategically shifted its attention to diagnostics. The launch of Codix Bio follows the December 2023 unveiling of Colexa Biosensor, sub-Saharan Africa’s first factory for producing blood glucose meters and strips.

Together, the two facilities represent Codix Pharma’s vision of becoming a leading African health technology company by 2030, integrating backward into medical device production and advancing the continent’s healthcare independence.

Ogangwu stressed Codix Bio’s commitment to international regulatory excellence. “We are committed to meeting WHO prequalification standards and US FDA regulations. Our focus is on quality, safety, and efficacy.”

Olanrewaju Balaja, General Manager of Plant Operations at Codix Bio Ltd, echoed this sentiment, citing the factory’s compliance with ISO 13485 standards and the WHO’s Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

“We are creating diagnostic kits that meet the same standards as those approved by

the world’s top health regulators. This will allow us not just to serve Nigeria but to export to West Africa and beyond.”

The facility has already completed design, construction, and utility installation phases, including the establishment of clean-room environments and air filtration systems. It is currently undergoing final qualification and validation, with commissioning set for next month.

The development also aligns with the World Health Organisation’s Local Production Forum, which advocates for increased local manufacturing capacity in low- and middle-income countries to strengthen access, affordability, and health security.

“This is not just a facility, it’s a symbol of what is achievable when innovation meets the right intention. African problems can indeed have African solutions,” Ogangwu said.

Codix Bio’s production will significantly ease some of the longstanding healthcare bottlenecks in Nigeria. Until now, virtually all rapid test kits used on the continent have been imported—leaving African countries vulnerable to global supply chain disruptions, inflated costs, and delayed access to critical diagnostic tools.

“This is a major breakthrough, not just for us at Codix, but for the country and continent. It’s about what is possible when innovation meets intention,” Ogangwu reiterated.

Access to diagnostics remains a critical barrier in Nigeria’s battle against communicable diseases. Without timely and affordable testing, illnesses often go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, leading to preventable fatalities—particularly in rural and underserved communities.

Ogangwu explained that Codix Bio’s test kits are engineered for fast, reliable, and cost-effective testing, enabling frontline health workers to diagnose and initiate treatment without delay.

“These kits will drastically reduce stockouts, lower testing costs, and improve healthcare outcomes for everyone, regardless of where they live.”

The launch also rides on the back of the Nigerian government’s health sector reform agenda, including the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC), the Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp), and a recent Executive Order exempting pharmaceutical equipment from tariffs. These policy moves have created an enabling environment for local

manufacturers like Codix.

The national target is to grow local pharmaceutical production to meet 70 per cent of domestic demand by 2030 and to capture 15 per cent of Africa’s pharmaceutical market share. Codix Bio is well positioned to contribute significantly to this target, as well as to Africa’s broader ambition of healthcare self-reliance.

Ogangwu concluded with a rallying call for innovation and self-determination in African healthcare:“We are no longer just recipients of aid or consumers of foreign technology. Codix Bio proves that African solutions can come from African soil.”

As diagnostic tests are essential for early disease detection, treatment decisions, and outbreak monitoring, the impact of Codix Bio’s production on Nigeria’s healthcare system—and potentially Africa’s—cannot be overstated.

The facility’s focus on high-burden diseases like malaria and HIV, which continue to affect millions, particularly in low-income and hard-to-reach regions, ensures that the benefits of this innovation will be felt far and wide. With Codix Bio poised to go live in a matter of weeks, Nigeria is making a bold statement in the quest for health sovereignty—one test kit at a time.

Nasarawa Backs FG’s Measles-Rubella Vaccination Programme

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

The Nasarawa State Government has pledged full support for the Federal Government’s proposed immunisation campaign aimed at eliminating measles and rubella, scheduled for launch in October this year.

Governor Abdullahi Sule made the commitment in Lafia on Tuesday during a one-day stakeholders’ engagement for the introduction of the measlesrubella vaccine into the routine immunisation schedule. The programme was organised by the Nasarawa State Primary Health Care Development Agency in collaboration with

the office of the First Lady and the Centre for Wellbeing and Integrated Nutrition Solutions (C-WINS).

Represented by his deputy, Dr Emmanuel Akabe, Governor Sule reiterated that his administration places top priority on the health and wellbeing of residents across the 13 local government areas of the state, particularly children.

He explained that the vaccination would not only safeguard children but also help strengthen the state’s economy and healthcare system. He therefore urged local government chairmen and their wives, caregivers, traditional and religious

leaders, women’s groups, and community influencers to give their full support to ensure that the vaccine is fully incorporated into the routine immunisation schedule from October.

“No amount of money is too much to meet the health needs of our people,” the governor said, assuring that his administration is committed to making the vaccine available and accessible in all health facilities across the state.

“I strongly endorse the measles-rubella vaccine to be introduced by the Federal Government, the state government and development partners in October 2025.

Measles and rubella are highly contagious and can cause deafness, blindness, heart defects, brain damage and even death in children.

Thankfully, the measles-rubella vaccine provides safe and effective protection. I therefore urge all parents, guardians, caregivers, traditional and religious leaders, health workers and community influencers to ensure that children aged 9 to 15 months receive this lifesaving vaccine,” he stated.

The Executive Secretary of the Nasarawa State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr Usman Iskilu, commended Governor Sule for demonstrating his love and commitment to the

health of children in the state by endorsing the vaccination programme.

He said the two-in-one measles-rubella vaccine is designed to provide effective protection against the highly contagious diseases, which can result in severe complications such as deafness, blindness, heart defects, and brain damage.

“The overall goal is to mobilise strong support and sustain commitment from government officials and community leaders for the effective integration of the measles-rubella vaccine into the routine immunisation schedule,” Dr Iskilu added.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Gaza

Gwamna, thanked stakeholders for attending the engagement despite their busy schedules. He expressed confidence that Nasarawa would top the chart in the national measles-rubella vaccination exercise, just as it did during the COVID-19 vaccination campaign.

“Just yesterday, I was told about an outbreak of measles in Rukubi community of Doma LGA. I did not know that we could still have measles outbreaks despite our efforts in improving immunisation. So, I am happy that the measlesrubella vaccine will now be part of our routine immunisation, and it is coming at the right time,” he said.

L-R: Enitan Odeyemi, Director, Business Development, Codix Pharma Ltd; Mary Ogangwu, Chief Operating Officer, Codix Pharma Ltd; Kingsley Aguoru, Chief Operating Officer, Colexa Biosensor Ltd; and Olanrewaju Balaja, General Manager Plant Operations, Codix Bio Ltd, during the recent press conference to announce the upcoming commissioning of the Codix Bio Ltd Test Kit manufacturing factory held at the head office, Obanikoro, Lagos, Nigeria

A Healthier Future: President Tinubu’s Drive to Improve Nigerian Healthcare

Victor Benjamin,

Health is wealth,” a common adage echoing through Nigerian communities, encapsulates the fundamental importance of well-being. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration appears to have taken this sentiment to heart, demonstrating a bold commitment to revolutionising Nigeria’s health sector.

Through a multi-pronged approach focused on strengthening infrastructure, upskilling manpower, and ensuring efficient healthcare delivery, the administration is signaling a new era for healthcare in Nigeria. This ambitious agenda, backed by tangible initiatives and achievements, holds the promise of a healthier and more prosperous nation.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has launched a comprehensive and ambitious agenda to transform Nigeria’s healthcare sector, signaling a new era of progress and commitment to the well-being of the Nigerian people.

This multi-pronged approach focuses on strengthening infrastructure, upskilling the healthcare workforce, enhancing system efficiency, and addressing critical public health challenges. The administration’s actions are demonstrably moving towards a more robust and accessible healthcare system. A cornerstone of this transformation is the aggressive expansion and upgrade of healthcare infrastructure. The federal government’s decisive action to convert the General Hospital Kumo in Gombe State into a Federal Medical Centre (FMC) is a prime example.

This strategic upgrade, the second federal medical institution in Gombe, will significantly improve healthcare delivery in the Northeast region. Moreover, the upgraded Kumo FMC will serve as a teaching hospital for the Federal University of Kashere and Lincoln University, Kumo, contributing to the crucial training of future medical practitioners. Furthermore, the administration is committed to dramatically increasing the number of functional Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) from 8,809 to over 17,600 by 2027. This expansion aims to bring quality healthcare closer to communities, particularly in underserved areas.

To support this, the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) is being redesigned to provide more Direct Facility Funding to healthcare facilities, increasing from N300,000 to N600,000-N800,000 per quarter. The federal government has also identified 577 primary healthcare centres for immediate revitalization, indicating a focused and actionable plan. Recognising that a strong healthcare system relies on a skilled workforce,

President Tinubu has prioritised investment in human resources for health. The approval of 774 National Health Fellows, selected from each local council, aims to foster sustained improvements and cultivate future healthcare leaders.

The administration has also set out to train 120,000 frontline health workers over 16 months, with 40,240 already trained, addressing critical manpower gaps in PHCs. Additionally, the enrolment capacity of accredited nursing and midwifery institutions is being increased to meet the growing demand for healthcare professionals.

A community health programme is being redesigned to create 126,000 jobs for community health workers, extending essential health services to remote and underserved communities. Strengthening healthcare systems and efficiency is another critical aspect of

the administration’s agenda. The Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII), launched in December 2023, serves as a strategic blueprint to improve population health outcomes through primary healthcare and enhance reproductive, maternal, and child health services.

The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) is developing a three-year digitalisation agenda, encompassing facility functionality, supply chain management, financial management, and the community health information system. This initiative promises improved efficiency and data-driven decision-making. Nigeria’s active participation in the Collaborative Active Strategy (CAS) further streamlines health campaigns and strengthens the overall health system. Addressing critical health challenges is also a priority.

First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s strong

Health Stakeholders Unite at UNILAG to Combat Malaria

In commemoration of World Malaria Day 2025, the University of Lagos (UNILAG) came alive with purpose as major health organisations, Green Life Pharmaceuticals, Green Life Hospital, Seagreen Pharmaceutical, and Clearline HMO, joined forces to lead a large-scale awareness and prevention campaign.

This initiative was driven by a common goal: to eradicate malaria from Nigeria through education, community engagement, and access to testing and treatment.

Held on April 25, the event was themed “Malaria

Ends with Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite.”

Hundreds of students and community members gathered to participate in free malaria testing and receive malaria prevention kits and medication, courtesy of the collaborating partners.

Beyond the distribution of medical supplies, the event served as a powerful platform to educate young people about malaria, its symptoms, prevention, and the dangers of drug abuse in relation to health management.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Peter Nwosu, Execu -

tive Director of Green Life Pharmaceuticals, underscored the importance of the event, highlighting it as both a commemorative and impactful outreach.

“We are here not just to mark a global health awareness day but to make a real difference in this vibrant community,” he stated.

He emphasised the seriousness of malaria, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, and reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to improving public health through its corporate social responsibility programs.

Dr. Oghenerukevwe Pe -

retomode, Medical Officer with Clearline HMO, stressed the need for a collective response from both the government and individuals to reduce the incidence of malaria. She called for more funding, innovation, and public education to support malaria prevention efforts.

“Everyone has a role to play,” she said, “from using mosquito-treated nets and maintaining clean environments to avoiding actions that promote mosquito breeding, like dumping refuse in drainage systems.”

Dr. Peretomode also pointed out that climate

advocacy campaign against tuberculosis (TB), declaring it a health emergency and committing an additional N1 billion through the Renewed Hope Initiative, highlights the administration’s focus on tackling significant public health issues. The nationwide rollout of HPV vaccination, with over 12 million girls vaccinated, demonstrates a proactive approach to preventive healthcare.

The international community has recognised the administration’s commitment. The World Bank has approved $1.57 billion to support the health sector in Nigeria, focusing on strengthening human capital through better health for women, children, and adolescents. This significant financial support underscores the global confidence in the administration’s vision and execution. President Tinubu’s comprehensive health agenda promises substantial benefits for the Nigerian populace. Foremost, it aims to drastically improve access to quality healthcare, particularly at the primary level, ensuring that even remote communities receive essential medical services.

This is complemented by a concerted effort to build a more robust and better-trained healthcare workforce, effectively addressing critical manpower shortages and ensuring adequate staffing across facilities. Simultaneously, the administration is focusing on strengthening healthcare infrastructure and equipment, upgrading existing facilities and constructing new ones to provide healthcare providers with necessary resources.

Furthermore, the agenda prioritises the creation of more efficient and transparent healthcare systems through digitalisation and improved financial management, streamlining processes and optimising resource allocation. Crucially, it demonstrates a strong commitment to tackling critical public health issues, such as tuberculosis and immunisation, through focused attention and targeted interventions. These multifaceted efforts collectively pave the way for a healthier nation, enhancing the overall well-being of the Nigerian people.

This comprehensive approach underscores President Tinubu’s understanding of the critical role of a strong healthcare system in national development. By prioritizing infrastructure, workforce development, system efficiency, and targeted interventions, the administration is laying the foundation for a healthier and more prosperous Nigeria. This narrative presents a compelling story of progress and commitment in the Nigerian health sector, marking a significant step towards a brighter future for the nation’s healthcare.

•Benjamin is West / South South Director, YP4T

change, through increased flooding and warmer weather, is contributing to the rise in malaria cases, further emphasising the need for environmental responsibility.

The event’s focus on youth was intentional. According to Mr. Chris Ikeagu, General Manager of Green Life Hospital, “We chose UNILAG because we want to engage young people directly. They are the ones who can carry the message forward to their homes and communities.

“Older generations are already familiar with malaria, but we believe that

prevention starts with youth education.” He emphasised the deadly nature of malaria and reiterated that early awareness and proper treatment are key to combating the disease.

The collective goal of the day was not only to mark World Malaria Day but to leave a lasting impact by empowering young Nigerians with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves and their communities.

As students engaged with health professionals and took their free malaria tests, the message was clear: “Malaria can end with us”.

Healthcare Delivery: Nasarawa Commences Revitalisation of Primary Health Facilities

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

The Nasarawa State government has disclosed that 58 primary healthcare facilities were currently being revitalised across the state in a bid to strengthen access to healthcare services in the state.

The Executive Secretary of the State Healthcare Development Agency, Dr Usman Saleh revealed this when he

received members of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists ( NUJ), on a courtesy visit in Lafia last week. According to him, the revitalisation was a holistic intervention which also health infrastructure, equipment, medicaments and manpower development.

He said the gesture which is supported by the World Bank was part the effort

aimed at ensuring accessible, affordable and quality healthcare services to all segments of the state.

He also stated that the geture would enhance universal health coverage even as he urged citizens and residents to take advantage of the opportunity.

He said, “We have more than 770 primary healthcare facilities in Nasarawa state.Of

all those facilities, we have what we call high-volume facilities and we have basic health care provision fund facilities.

“The basic health care provision fund facilities are being funded from 1% of Nigerian revenue and other partners.

“We have 147 electoral wards in Nasarawa State and each ward is expected to have one, same for each

ward across the country.

“So by Nigerian government, it’s expected that by the end of 2025, all these facilities, including the 147 in Nasarawa state must be functional and revitalised to provide 24 hours services.”

Earlier, the Chairman of the Correspondent Chapel of the NUJ, Mr Isaac Ukpoju, congratulated the Executive Secretary, on his

appointment as the head of state’s agency, expressing their willingness to partner and support the agency’s mission to provide quality healthcare to the people of the State. Ukpoju who led the courtesy visit, commended the state government for the appointment, stating that it was a demonstration of the governor’s commitment to the health sector.

Benjamin

Gamin G Week

Edited by nseobonG okon-ekonG |

Omaghomi: Only 3% of 300,000 Personnel in Nigeria’s Gaming Industry in Formal Employment

A statement signed by the Deputy General Secretary of the NLC, Comrade Ismail Bello, said that in line with the tradition of observance of Workers’ Day on May 1 annually, the theme for this year’s celebration is ‘Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship’. To align with workers in the gaming environment in Nigeria, Nseobong Okon-Ekong had a conversation with Comrade David Omaghomi, National Treasurer, National Union of Gaming and Lottery Workers (NUGLOW), who is also the convener of a national stakeholders summit ‘For the Workers, by the Workers’, in the gaming industry

Your trade union in the gaming industry is beginning to gain prominence on a national stage like May Day. What has been your experience in rewriting the story of organized labour in such a unique sector?

It’s been a long and determined journey. Building a structured workers’ movement in the gaming and gambling industry is like trying to organize water — fluid, scattered, and always shifting. We’re dealing with a value chain of over 300,000 people — from regulators to bet shop attendants, online agents, kiosk operators, virtual game handlers, IT staff, marketers, and even call centre workers. Most of them don’t even realise they are part of the same ecosystem. And for too long, they’ve been left vulnerable — no collective bargaining, no benefits, no safety net. It’s been tough — but I’ve stayed the course because of my love for workers. Before joining this sector, I spent a decade in the oil and gas industry, and when it was time to move on, it was union membership that ensured I left with dignity — a fair payoff, benefits, and respect. That’s why I often say: if you’re working in gaming without a union, you’re not just gambling with other people’s stakes — you’re gambling with your own future.

What has been the biggest shift or win for the union recently?

The legal recognition of our union, NUGLOW — the National Union of Gaming and Lottery Workers — is a landmark. The court processes

are over, and our name change is now in the government gazette. This means we are the only recognized industry union across this sector. That recognition opens the door for all existing workers, groups, and associations — including regulatory agencies and operators — to adopt us as their representative body. We are also pleased to congratulate the Federation of State Gaming Regulators of Nigeria (FSGRN) for their emergence. Their presence is strengthening the governance of gaming across Nigeria, especially following the Supreme Court’s 2024 judgment affirming states’ powers. We urge state regulators to now organize

their workers formally under NUGLOW — not as add-ons to unrelated civil service unions, but in a space built just for them.

How large is the workforce in the industry, and how is it structured?

In terms of direct employees — especially regulators at the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC), National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF) and state-level commissions — we estimate over 8,000 staff. Add the rest of the operational and informal workforce, and you’re looking at over 300,000 people across the entire value

In Nigeria’s high-stakes gaming industry—a sector still grappling with regulatory chaos, underage gambling, and the presence of illegal operators—Velex Advisory has emerged as a professional service consortium dedicated to providing strategic advice to businesses in emerging technology markets, writes Iyke Bede

With a 27-year track record, Velex Advisory, headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), expanded into Nigeria in 2019. Since then, it has been providing business establishment advisory, general business support, and growth strategy for the country’s gaming sector. The firm has positioned itself as a key compliance partner in the industry, building a reputation for regulatory integrity and strategic foresight, helping gaming operators navigate Nigeria’s evolving legal landscape while fostering sustainable growth.

“When I joined Velex, it was already a compliance-focused company. The people I work with know the rules,” said Francis Masade, Managing Director of Velex Advisory,

chain that includes principal agents and super agents, kiosk/terminal staff (many are casual or informal), senior management and marketing teams, customer service and call centre agents, tech developers and platform specialists and retail cashiers and shop operators. It is sad to say and very unfortunate that only between two and three per cent of this entire number are in formal and regulatory employment. The vast majority are engaged by private operators or their networks.

highlighting the firm’s deep-rooted compliance culture. This internal ethos extends outward, assisting clients in Nigeria’s gaming industry, which is often marked by regulatory noncompliance.

“There’s a mantra we always tell our clients,” Masade continued. “If the government says pay N1 million, it’s better to pay N500,000 and declare the outstanding balance rather than not pay at all.” He pointed out that, in some cases, certain rules are not strictly enforced at the initial stages.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Inside Velex Advisory’s Playbook for Compliant Gaming Industry Nexal Gaming Launches ‘Campus Clutch’ University eSports Tour

Through its subsidiary, eSports Network for Gaming and You (ENGY) Africa, Nexal Gaming Company has announced ‘Campus Clutch’, an ambitious university eSports tour across Nigeria designed to activate student gaming communities and integrate eSports into university life. The tournament will visit eight universities to ignite competitive gaming and is expected to run from June to November 2025.

In collaboration with each school’s Student Union Governments (SUGs), the tournament will see students compete not only for prizes but also for the pride of representing their faculties. The tournaments, centred around individual competition formats, will feature three popular titles: Call of Duty Mobile (CODM), EAFC, and Chess, providing a balanced showcase of gaming skill, strategy, and mental agility. Registration and competition will follow faculty lines, culminating in a grand final to determine the top faculty and standout champions at each university.

Celebration for Soname,

Mr Bet9ja

Business tycoon, Honourable Kunle Soname got an exhilarating start to the week as his football club, Remo Stars recorded a significant victory in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) by beating Niger Tornadoes at their picturesque Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State.  It was, arguably, the sweetest gift to Soname, the founder of leading sports betting brand Bet9ja, on his 59th birthday. s oname

o maghomi

STERLING BANK’S BUSINESS VISIT TO DANGOTE SUGAR REFINERY...

L-R: Group Executive, Corporate & Investment Banking, Sterling Bank, Dele Faseemo; Group Managing Director, Dangote Sugar Refinery, Ravindra Singh Singhvi; and Group Head, FMCG, Manufacturing & Export Finance, Sterling Bank, Kashetolulope Lawal, during a business visit to Dangote Sugar Refinery in Lagos… recently

Edun: FG on Verge of Finalising N1.5tn Highway Concessioning Initiative

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun yesterday disclosed that the federal was on the verge of concluding the N1.5 trillion road concession project under the Highway Development and Management Initiative (HDMI).

The main objective of the HDMI, which seeks to facilitate the development of parts of Nigeria’s 35,000 kilometres of federal highway network, is to involve the private sector in the reconstruction and management of nine major highways across Nigeria, spanning approximately 900 kilometers.

In a bid to clear administrative hurdles hindering the ₦1.5 trillion road infrastructure investment Edun led a team of top federal government officials comprising his counterpart in Budget and Economic Planning, Mr. Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, and the Director General Infrastructure Concession and Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Dr. Jobson Oseodion Ewalefoh to meet with some of the private sector investors (concessionaires).

The Minister of Works,Dave Umahi joined the meeting virtually.

Briefing journalists on the outcome of the meeting, Edun disclosed that the federal government was on the verge of finalising the highway concessioning initiative.

According to him, the partners have nearly completed all agreement arrangements for the highways, which they will finance, rebuild, and maintain under a 25-year concession agreements.

President,

Jr., on his 72nd birthday. The two leaders commended Dr. Adenuga for his outstanding contributions to both countries, their people and economies.

While Mahama described the celebrant’s life “as a shining example of vision, resilience, and extraordinary accomplishment,” his Nigerian colleague posited that Dr. Adenuga’s life and extraordinary accomplishments were a testament to the power of vision and doggedness.

In a congratulatory message to Dr. Adenuga, President Mahama noted that through his unmatched entrepreneurial spirit and commitment

The concessionaires are expected to recoup their investments through tolling fees.

He said, “We met the concessionaires who have virtually concluded all the agreement arrangements for nine roads, nine major highways, which they are contracting to refinance the rebuilding of and to recover their funds from tolling fees under 25-year or so agreements.

“ And we met them to iron out the remaining administrative obstacles to them kicking off construction of these roads.”

The minister explained that this significant private sector investment would bridge budgetary gaps and allow investors to undertake revenuegenerating projects, leveraging their expertise and resources for long-term implementation and maintenance.

Edun stated that David Umahi, participated in the discussions virtually, despite being in Lagos to showcase progress on the Lagos-Calabar Highway, adding that the latter was expected back in Abuja next Tuesday to finalise pending issues.

“Thereafter, it will be a question of signing the addendums and moving to the site. As you know, already the 125-kilometer Benin–Asaba Highway concession agreement has been signed. The addendum has been signed.

“All arrangements have been finalized. In fact, the Ministry of Works has handed over the road to the concessionaire and they have already started the preliminary arrangements for reconstruction of that road in place of a 10 lane highway. It’s an investment, it’s a project and an initiative that will reduce the travel time between Benin and Asaba right

to excellence, the business Guru had “not only built enduring businesses but also contributed significantly to the socio-economic advancement of our continent.”

He added that Dr. Adenuga’s leadership and philanthropic endeavour remained a beacon of inspiration for generations across Africa.

In the same vein, President Tinubu stated that Adenuga’s humility and diligence had enabled him to succeed in banking, telecommunications, oil, and gas.

“Through determination and hard work, he built businesses that have created thousands of jobs for our people,” he noted. According to President Tinubu, Nigerians will always appreciate Globacom’s ingenuity in disrupting

up to the Niger Bridge,” Edun stated.

The Benin–Asaba Highway project, which has already commenced, is expected to reduce travel time between Benin and Asaba from four hours to one hour, significantly enhancing productivity and efficiency in the region.

Launched in 2021, the HDMI

is a strategic programme by the Federal Government aimed at attracting private sector investment to improve Nigeria’s federal road network.

The initiative seeks to address the challenges of inadequate funding and maintenance by leveraging Public-Private Partnerships (PPP)

to develop and manage road infrastructure.

Under the HDMI, 12 highways were initially selected for concession, covering a total of 1,963 kilometers. These roads include Benin–Asaba, Abuja–Lokoja, Kano–Katsina, Onitsha–Owerri–Aba, Shagamu–Benin, Abuja–Keffi–Akwanga, Kano–Shuari,

Potiskum–Damaturu, Lokoja–Benin, Enugu–Port Harcourt, Ilorin–Jebba, Lagos–Ota–Abeokuta, and Lagos–Badagry–Seme.

The initiative is projected to generate over 50,000 direct and 200,000 indirect jobs, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s economic growth and development.

MOFI, Shelter Afrique Sign MoU on Structured Financing for N1tn Real Estate Investment Fund

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

The Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) yesterday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Shelter Afrique Development Bank (ShafDB) to kick-start an international commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s housing sector through the N1 trillion multi-tranche MOFI Real Estate Investment Fund (MREIF)

The MoU signing event was the icing on the cake for the MREIF programme which has already disbursed 100 mortgages since the cqpital raising of an initial N250 billion in the first and second tranches.

ShafDB is the Pan-African Multilateral Development Bank(MDB) dedicated to promoting and financing housing, urban development and related infrastructure.

Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony in Abuja , the Managing Director of MOFI, Dr. Armstrong Takang said solutions to African problems lie in Africans and African

at 72

the billing template in the telecommunications sector.

His words: “By pioneering per-second billing, Glo expanded telephony and digital access to millions of Nigerians.

“In addition, Conoil has proven that an indigenous firm can compete with international oil companies, fostering energy independence and security for our country.”

While adding that Nigeria was grateful for Adenuga’s immense contributions to the country’s progress and prosperity, the President commended him for extending his investments to other African countries and Europe, “a bold effort which earned you well-deserved honours as Commander of the Legion of Honour (France) and Ghana’s Companion of the Star of Ghana”, he concluded.

institutions.

According to him, housing is one of those areas of challenges that provide incredible opportunities for African businesses.

He expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who has entrusted MOFI with the responsibility to make MREIF a reality, adding that he had demonstrated commitment not only in terms of raising resources but also political support.

He noted that MREIF is a N1 trillion programme, which will be raised in series, adding N150 billion had been raised in Series 1 and N100 billion in Series, totaling N250 billion.

According to him, the disbursement to mortgages has already commenced, explaining that practical expression is being given to what MREIF set out to achieve.

Takang noted that plans are underway to go back to the market

to raise more funds as N1 trillion is like a drop in the ocean when the scale of housing deficit in the country is put in consideration.

He, however, noted that it was a very good and symbolic start, saying that there is a lot of financing for housing which are not in local currency like the MREIF which is in naira.

Takang said with MREIF denominated in naira, the challenge of risk is eliminated.

He stated that MREIF not only provides long-term , affordable mortgages with interest rates as low as 12 per cent bit also support developers through off-take guarantees that unlock financing for large scale-scale projects.

He explained that MOFI dies not give mortgage financing but provides offtake guarantees.

The MOFI chief executive noted

that with a clear structure that connects capital markets, developers, and home buyers, MREIF ‘s mission was to tackle both supply and demand constraints.

The partnership with Shelter Afrique, he stressed, will further enable the fund to scale, diversify capital sources, and catalyse the housing ecosystem.

Speaking at the event, the Managing Director of Shelter Afrique, Thomas-Habib Hann expressed strong confidence in Nigeria’s housing market and the MREIF framework, describing it as “an attractive vehicle with real impact and investment returns.”

According to him, Nigeria is one of the two largest shareholders of Sheter Afrique, assuring that the company was committed to financing innovative financing models like that of MREIF.

Net-zero Emissions: APRI Seeks Homegrown, Data-backed Energy Transition Plan

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

The Africa Policy Research Institute (APRI) has emphasized the need for Nigeria to work towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2060 through a homegrown, data-backed Energy Transition Plan.

The call was part of the submissions of Executive Director of APRI, Dr. Olumide Abimbola, at the opening ceremony of a two-day Global South Peer Learning Workshop on Country Platforms for Climate Action and Just Energy Transition at the Abuja Continental Hotel, in Abuja.

The workshop brought together government officials, private sector leaders, civil society, and international partners from across the Global South including Indonesia, Vietnam, South Africa, China, and Senegal.

The event, organized by the Africa

Policy Research Institute (APRI) in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat, and the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation, focused on sharing practical lessons and strategies for designing coordinated national frameworks to drive low-emission growth, mobilize climate finance, and ensure a just and inclusive energy transition.

Abimbola opened the workshop by emphasizing the urgency of turning climate rhetoric into reality through strong cross-sectoral partnerships and Global South collaboration.

He highlighted Nigeria’s ambition to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060 through a homegrown, data-backed Energy Transition Plan

and underscored the importance of this convention in informing Nigeria’s forthcoming National Development Plan (2026-2030) to mainstream climate priorities across sectors such as power, transportation, agriculture, industry, and finance. The workshop addressed key themes including what works and what doesn’t in country platform design, building domestic ownership and trust, and navigating the evolving global financing landscape amid geopolitical shifts and fiscal tightening in traditional donor economies.

Participants critically reflected on the effectiveness of existing Just Energy Transition Partnerships (JETPs) and explored new opportunities for African agency, resilient investment platforms, and responsible leverage of critical minerals.

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

Ghanaian

John Dramani Mahama, has joined his Nigerian counterpart, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in celebrating the Chairman of Globacom, Dr. Mike Adenuga,

At Requiem Mass, Osinbajo, Obi, Fayemi, Others Pay Final Respects to Pascal Dozie

Obinna Chima

Dignitaries from across Nigeria’s banking, business and politics spheres gathered yesterday at a requiem mass at the Catholic Church of the Assumption, Falomo, Lagos, to pay their final respects to deceased boardroom guru and founder of the defunct Diamond Bank, Mr. Pascal Gabriel Dozie.

Among the notable figures present were former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; presidential candidate of Labour Party in the 2023 election and former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi; former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi; Managing Director of MTN Nigeria, Karl Toriola and other executives of the telecoms company; Chairman of Access Holdings, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede; Managing Director of Access Bank, Roosevelt Ogbonna; Managing Direc-

tor of Afrinvest, Ike Chioke; former Lagos State gubernatorial candidate, Jimi Agbaje, among several other executives and entrepreneurs.

Dozie, 85-years, the pioneer Chairman of MTN Nigeria, died on 8th April 2025, a day before his 86th birthday.

In his homily, the Parish Priest, Catholic Church of the Assumption, Rev. Father Francis Ike, spoke about the dedication of the deceased to his faith. He also narrated how arrangements had been made for the celebration of his 86th birthday.

“Pascal was very generous and passionate towards the needy. Pascal was so easy to get along with and was also friendly. He was very energetic and had a deep vision and passion to achieve great strides in life. Pascal was a friend to all and sundry. The turnout at his service of songs and his requiem mass this morning is

while airlines have pulled their 2025 financial forecasts, citing uncertainty over spending on nonessential travel because of tariffs.

testimony to that.

“Pascal lived a life of simplicity, generosity, and humility. He was always there for the less privileged, and we pray that his good deeds will bring him heavenly rewards through Christ Our Lord. Pascal will be loved and remembered even in death, for the good he did and the many souls he touched. He was an icon, he lived an adorable life, and recorded landmarks in the various positions that he led. He will be remembered for the footprints he left on the sands of time,” the priest said.

Preaching further to the congregation, he stressed the need for all to embrace humility just like the deceased, saying that was why he had a peaceful death.

“This life is a stage, and we are all here acting our part. We would all leave this stage. Pascal Dozie has

sought to highlight strong domestic demand, including the rebound in business spending as outlays on equipment surged at a 22.5 per cent rate.

played his part, and he has left the stage. You and I are on this stage now. This earth is not our home, but a marketplace. Heaven is our eternal home, therefore, we will go home one day,” he added.

In his remarks, the first son of the deceased and founder of Sparkle, Uzoma Dozie, thanked everyone for taking out time to honour his father despite their busy schedules.

Dozie, born April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, began his educational journey at Our Lady’s School in Emekuku, near Owerri, and advanced to the prestigious London School of Economics, where he earned a degree in Economics and a master’s in Administrative Science.

He established Diamond Bank at the age of 51, and through the financial institution that was dominant in retail banking, he made his most enduring mark.

At a time when banking in Nigeria was viewed with scepticism, he envisioned a customer-friendly, technology-driven financial institution.

Diamond Bank overtime became a benchmark for innovation and integrity in the Nigerian financial space.

Under his leadership, Diamond Bank attracted top talent, pioneered electronic banking innovations, and set new standards for customer service.

In 2006, he handed over leadership to his son, Uzoma Dozie, becoming one of the first Nigerian banking founders to successfully implement a family-led succession plan.

The deceased played a pivotal role in the early days of Nigeria’s mobile telecommunications revolution and was instrumental to the launch of MTN Nigeria, serving as its pioneer chairman. His leadership style was marked by humility, integrity, and

Trum P ’ S TA r I ff S : u S g DP S H r I nk S TO 0.3% f r O m 2.4 P er cen T I n Q1, D OW Tumble S 400 P OI n TS three months of the year, the Commerce Department said. It was, on the surface, a stunning reversal from the strong growth at the end of last year, when the economy expanded at a 2.4 per cent rate.

Overall gross domestic product declined in the first quarter, but a measure of underlying growth, based on spending and investment, was solid. Nonetheless, both consumer and business spending likely reflected front-loading before the import duties kicked in. As such, the report reinforced Americans’ growing disapproval of Trump’s handling of the economy as he marks 100 days in office.

Trump swept to victory last November on voter angst over the economy, especially inflation. Consumer confidence is near five-year lows and business sentiment has tanked,

Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, and former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, among others, yesterday, paid glowing tributes to the late Afenifere leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, who passed away on February 14, 2025, at the age of 97.

At a ‘Night of Tributes and Service of Songs’, held at Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos, President Tinubu in his tribute sent to the family, described Adebanjo as one of the last nationalists and independence heroes, who laid Nigeria’s foundation.

In the president’s words: “The nation has lost a political leader whose decades-long struggle for democracy and unity left an indelible mark. All who knew Baba Adebanjo drew from his boundless wisdom and admired the democratic ideals he championed. Though we mourn, we thank God for a purposeful life – 96 years of tireless advocacy for equity and progress.”

Tinubu hailed Adebanjo as a lawyer, statesman, and a devoted disciple of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, recalling his political journey spanned from his role as Organising Secretary of the Action Group in the First Republic to leading the Unity Party of Nigeria in the Second Republic. He also lauded Adebanjo’s courage during national crises, especially his leadership during the aftermath of the June 12, 1993, election annulment as a prominent figure in the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO).

Tinubu recalled Adebanjo’s support for his 1999 governorship bid in Lagos State under the Alliance for Democracy, describing him as unwavering in his pursuit of justice.

Obasanjo, represented by Senator Ibikunle Amosun, described Adebanjo as a foremost nationalist and patriot.

“I received the news of his passing while in Addis Ababa. When I visited him on February 3, though frail, I didn’t expect he would leave us so soon,” he said, adding, “He was a great man, a voice of the people, and a committed community leader.”

Acknowledging their political differences, Obasanjo praised Adebanjo’s dedication to national progress, restructuring, and justice.

“His thoughts transcended partisanship. Though his dream of a restructured Nigeria remains unfulfilled, it continues to inspire,” he said.

The economy was also weighed down by a decline in federal government spending, likely linked to the White House’s aggressive funding cuts, marked by mass firings and shuttering of programmes, separate reports by Reuters and the New York Times, said.

The report captured activity before Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs announcement, which ushered in sweeping duties on most imports from the United States’ trade partners, including jacking up duties on Chinese goods to 145 per cent, sparking a trade war with Beijing. But Trump blamed former President Joe Biden for the weak GDP and

Jonathan, in his tribute, described Adebanjo as a national hero and a symbol of resilience.

“He championed the rights of the common man and advocated democracy and good governance until the very end. His death is a profound loss to the nation. He was a man of principles, courage, and unity,” Jonathan said.

Atiku called Adebanjo a fearless elder statesman and one of Nigeria’s last true nationalists.

“He spent his youth fighting colonialism, his middle years resisting military rule, and his later life promoting democracy and good governance. He was a formidable advocate for justice and equity.”

President of the African Development Bank, Akinwumi Adesina, described Adebanjo as an indomitable statesman and lifelong champion of truth.

“He consistently spoke out on Nigeria’s challenges and inspired generations. I saw him as a father figure. Even at 95, he attended the Awolowo Prize for Leadership ceremony to support me. That gesture moved me deeply.”

Labour Party presidential candidate in 2023, Mr. Peter Obi, described him as a man of courage, integrity, and unwavering commitment to truth and service.

“We are here to honour a man who lived a life of courage, truth, and dedication,” Obi said, adding: “He reminded us that true success lies in living a life of value.”

Obi recalled his interactions with Adebanjo during his presidential campaign and noted how deeply he cared about the impact of policies on ordinary Nigerians.

“I met him during my campaign. Even in our last conversations, he would ask, ‘What’s your position on this issue?’ He always insisted I explain how policies would affect Nigerians,” Obi said.

“He cared deeply about the poor. It didn’t matter whether the policy affected the North, East, or West – he just wanted to know how it would impact the people.”

Former Education Minister and ex-Vice President of the World Bank (Africa), Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, described Adebanjo as a revolutionary who spoke truth to power with boldness.

“We had numbers that despite what we were handed, we turned them around,” Trump said at the White House.

Final sales to private domestic purchasers, which exclude trade, inventories and government spending, grew at a solid 3.0 per cent rate. But this measure of domestic demand, which Trump also referred to, also was distorted by tariffs.

Domestic demand was strong during the last year of the Biden administration, growing at a brisk 2.9 per cent in the October-December quarter.

Senate Democratic Leader Chuck

“He was a man of character, whose life is worthy of emulation,” she said.

Former SEC Director-General, Arunma Oteh, praised him as a courageous patriot and exceptional mentor.

“He lived a life of integrity, compassion, and sacrifice. He taught us that Nigeria thrives when united, and leadership must be grounded in character and competence.”

President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, said Adebanjo was a steadfast advocate of true federalism and justice.

“His courage and belief in an egalitarian Nigeria will continue to inspire generations. He was never afraid to speak truth to power,” he said.

In his sermon titled: “Lord, Make Me

of the 2027 general election, saying politics was a game of aspirations, not guarantees.

At the same time, following resolutions of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP, which met on Tuesday, Architect Setonji Koshoedo, yesterday, assumed office as the acting National Secretary of the party.

Addressing a mammoth crowd that thronged the Town Square meeting of the Ukanafun/Oruk Anam federal constituency at the QIC Central School, Ikot Akpankuk, headquarters of Ukanafun Local Government Area, the governor disclosed that he might soon join the fray as the crucial 2027 election year inches closer.

Speaking in parable, he said, “If you wanted to travel with Ibom Airline, and on the verge of taking off, it developed a fault that won’t enable it to fly, won’t you board the next available plane to take you to your destination?”

The governor, who enjoined the people to remain steadfast in support of his administration in its quest to deliver on its campaign promises, doled out empowerment succour to over 400 people, including business grants, cars and other freebies. He urged the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the resources at their disposal, warning them to desist from deploying it to ponzi schemes or any other unintended purposes.

Schumer in a statement accused Trump of running the country into the ground. “Donald Trump must admit his failure and reverse course, and immediately fire his economic team,” Schumer said.

Imports jumped at a 41.3 per cent rate, the largest rise since the third quarter of 2020, when the nation was in the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic, which fractured global supply chains. That obliterated a modest rise in exports, resulting in a large trade gap that chopped off a record 4.83 percentage points from GDP.

Some of the imports ended up as inventory in warehouses, partially blunting the hit to GDP. Inventory accumulation surged at a $140.1 billion pace after rising moderately in the October-December quarter.

to Know Mine End, and the Measure of My Days”, Pastor Tunde Bakare reflected on the brevity of life and the importance of living purposefully.

“Money, fame, and power are fleeting. What truly matters is not the praise of men, but God’s judgment,” he said.

According to him, “Chief Adebanjo stood for truth, even when it was unpopular. As we reflect on his legacy, we must ask ourselves: what legacy will we leave behind?”

Other dignitaries at the event included former Osun State governor, Rauf Aregbesola; former Ogun State governor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel; and retired General Zamani Lekwot, among others.

“We need to meet with the people from time to time to see them. It’s not only during elections that we should come to see our people.

“We also have to come and see you in the course of governance, to check your wellbeing, to listen to you, tell you what we have done, and what we are planning to do.

“This is the fourth federal constituency we have visited, we have six more to go and we will finish all in time for the budget department to capture the needs in the 2026 budget.

“We will go through your requests and tell you the ones we have decided to do, based on available funds. We might not be able to do all, but whatever is left we will add to subsequent budgets.

“We will always work with the people because this government is of the people, for the people, and by the people,” he stated.

However, Baraje dismissed concerns over recent defections from the party in Delta State, describing the issue as over-flogged and no longer worth dwelling on.

Speaking during an interview with ARISE NEWS, Baraje stated that the party’s leadership has moved past the episode and is now focused on future possibilities, including stronger collaboration across party lines to reposition Nigeria.

“As far as the latest defection in Delta State is concerned, I think the leaders of PDP have put that

long-term vision. He was decorated with the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) in recognition of his contributions to Nigeria’s economic and financial sector.

Inventories added 2.25 percentage points to GDP after being a drag for two straight quarters.

Meanwhile, stocks tumbled on Wednesday, spoiling a stock market comeback in April, as data showed the U.S. economy contracted in the first quarter, raising fears the economy was slipping into a recession under the weight of Trump’s flurry of policy moves, especially on trade.

US markets opened in the red, reacting to fresh economic data that showed the economy unexpectedly contracted in the first quarter of 2025.

Investor sentiment soured sharply, sending major indexes tumbling.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) dropped 422.94 points to 40,104.68, down 1.04per cent . The Nasdaq Composite slid 363.98 points to 17,097.34, a drop of 2.08 per cent , while the S&P 500 fell 82.88 points to 5,477.95, down 1.49 per cent.

Besides, the volatility index, often called Wall Street’s fear gauge, spiked 10.22 per cent to 26.64, signaling rising market anxiety.

In commodities, gold dipped $20.50 to $3,313.10 per ounce, while oil dropped $0.53 to $59.89 per barrel. The US 10-year Treasury yield edged slightly lower to 4.168per cent , reflecting a modest flight to safety.

On the currency front, the euro weakened against the US dollar, with the EUR/USD pair trading at 1.137, down 0.002 or 0.149per cent. “The decline in real GDP in the first quarter was driven by an increase in imports, slower consumer spending, and a drop in government expenditures,” the Commerce Department said.

US financial markets responded

behind us,” he said, adding: “We are overflogging the matter. What we are trying to do now is to look ahead and see what is possible.”

Baraje hinted at the potential for political alliances that could challenge the current structure of governance.

“Looking at the possibility of parties coming together to work — yeah, it is possible. Very, very possible,” he said.

Baraje also criticised the APC-led government over its handling of insecurity and the economy, suggested that had the PDP remained in power, the country would not have descended into its current state.

“Enough attention or enough solution has not been given to the issue of security in Nigeria. One would have thought that one of the cardinal answers to the problem Nigeria has is to solve the insecurity first, but it’s going from bad to worse. I think if the PDP gets there, PDP will do far better than what is happening now.

“What was the economy of the country by 2014-15, by the time APC was coming on board? What is it now? What was it when the idea of Emilokan came on board? What is happening now? Are we any better? These are questions we should ask ourselves. And definitely I know we have the answers. It was not like this in 2014-15.

‘’And you know it for sure that if we have gotten the opportunity to continue, things will not be as

negatively to the report, with futures falling ahead of the opening bell on Wall Street.

“Just 100 days into his presidency, Donald Trump’s unpredictable tariff strategy is dragging down the economy, with businesses stockpiling imports ahead of a potential tariff crisis,” said Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren in a statement following the GDP release.

Also, European stocks pared losses to close higher yesterday, as investors reacted to worse-than-expected economic data out of the United States. The Stoxx 600 index closed up 0.46 per cent, its seventh consecutive winning day.

Healthcare stocks moved higher, with the regional Stoxx Healthcare index adding 1.3 per cent. A number of companies in the industry addressed US tariffs in their first-quarter earnings reports, with GSK, AstraZeneca and Smith+Nephew all telling investors they were well positioned to cope with any impact.

Trump’s tariffs have unsurprisingly emerged as a key theme in early corporate results, with many citing the difficulty of forecasting, while bank profits beat estimates. Those trends continued Wednesday, with Swiss lender UBS reporting betterthan-expected net profit of $1.692 billion in the first quarter, while auto giant Stellantis suspended its full-year guidance due to uncertainties. Elsewhere, preliminary data showed on Wednesday that the euro zone economy grew by a better-than-expected 0.4 per cent in the first quarter of the year, following stagnation at the end of 2024.

bad as they are now. I’m sure if the PDP comes in, if we are given the opportunity to come in, it will not be as bad or from bad to worse as it is now,” Baraje declared

Koshoedo Assumes Office as PDP Acting National Secretary Sequel to the resolutions of the PDP NWC, which met on Tuesday, Architect Setonji Koshoedo, has assumed office as Acting National Secretary of the party yesterday. Koshoedo, before his appointment was the Deputy National Secretary of the PDP.

The PDP governors’ forum had at its meeting in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, advised the NWC to appoint the Deputy National Secretary to assume the position of National Secretary in acting capacity pending when the South East zone nominates a new National Secretary in line with the judgement of the Supreme Court. Upon his resumption, Koshoedo met with the management staff of the PDP in his office at the party’s National Secretariat, Abuja, during which he assured them of the NWC’s commitment to further unite, stabilise and energise the party going forward. The final determination of the struggle for the authentic National Secretary will be settled by the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the party on May 27, when it would meet.

Late Pascal Dozie

AFRIMA/AUC COURTESY CALL ON MR. GOVERNOR...

L-R: President/Executive Producer, All-Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), Mike Dada; African Union Representative, Angela

during AFRIMA/AUC

Shettima: Tinubu Ready to Unlock Nigeria’s Full Potential as Leading Force in Africa

FG seeks stronger ties with Berlin’s Hertie School on human capital development

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Wednesday declared that President Bola Tinubu is fully committed to unlocking Nigeria’s full potential and positioning the country as a leading force on the African continent, driven by strategic investments in human capital and bold economic reforms.

According to him, Nigeria is actively seeking expertise from the global best institutions to

enhance policy formulation and implementation, particularly in human capital development.

Speaking while playing host to a delegation from the Hertie School of Governance, Berlin, led by Senior Fellow Dr. Rolf Alter, at the State House in Abuja , the Vice President noted that President Tinubu is determined to elevate Nigeria to its rightful position as a leading force in Africa.

“The current crop of leadership in Nigeria under President Bola Tinubu

is ready and willing to unleash the full potential of the Nigerian nation on the African continent. We are laying the groundwork through strategic reforms, and at the heart of it is human capital development,” Shettima stated.

He described the Hertie School as a valuable partner in the journey, noting that “Hertie School of Governance, Berlin, has the track record and institutional knowledge to add value to our policy formulation and delivery,

especially in this disruptive age.”

Reiterating the government’s priority on upskilling Nigerians, the Vice President said, “Skills are very important, and with our Human Capital Development (HCD) 2.0 programme, we are in a position to unleash the full potential of the Nigerian people by enhancing their capital skills.”

He acknowledged the vital support of international development partners in this effort: “I want to thank the World Bank, the European

Kano to Spend N51.5 Billion for Infrastructure, Education, Others

The Kano State Executive Council has approved N51,575,700,575.96 as budget to fund various projects and programs aimed at enhancing governance and improving the lives of citizens.

This was contained in a statement released by the State Commissioner for Information & Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, on Wednesday. According to Waiya, the budget allocation underscores the state’s commitment to fostering sustainable development across key areas, including infrastructure, education, and public welfare.

He said among the key approvals, the Ministry of Works secured N3,469,629,136.81 for installing wire-

less solar-powered traffic lights across Kano’s metropolitan areas as part of the Urban Renewal Programme.

His words: “The same ministry was granted N5,492,077,139.05 for rehabilitating and overlaying major roads, including routes from Gidan Mallam Aminu Kano (Mumbayya House) to Tal’udu Junction and Sharada Road.

“Additionally, N390,361,730.83 was approved for elevator installations at Gidan Murtala and Gidan Ado Bayero, while N105,403,453.62 will fund the construction of a road linking Miller Road to Mission Road.

“Education received significant attention, with N1,212,571,013.79 allocated to upgrade the School for Islamic Studies in Dawakin Tofa, Tofa, and Ungogo local government areas.

“The Ministry of Education

also secured N327,780,226.89 to clear outstanding liabilities, while N5,386,380,955.00 was approved to sustain foreign scholarship programmes and launch domestic ones.”

In a bid to address water scarcity, the Ministry of Water Resources was allocated N1,698,800,000.00 to cover electricity, diesel, and petrol costs for the Greater Kano Works and Water Board from January to March 2025.

The Council Chairman reaffirmed the administration’s resolve to eliminate water shortages, urging residents to remain patient.

He said environmental initiatives were also prioritised, with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change receiving N11,000,000.00 to settle 11 months of outstanding allowances for 100 forest guards,

alongside a 100% increase in their monthly stipends.

According to him, “The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation was granted N185,162,487.50 to clear dues for fibre optic installation and bandwidth subscriptions for 2023–2025.

“Land development efforts included N265,803,510.00 for compensating property owners affected by the expansion of Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology in Wudil, and N81,142,850.00 for those impacted by the Panda–Hamdullahi–Albasu–Sakwayen Dutse road project.

Union, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and all our partners in that drive to add value to the Nigerian nation,” he maintained.

Specifically, Shettima said human capital development is both an economic imperative and a social necessity, just as he said, “We can only turn our demographic bulge into a demographic dividend when we invest in the human capital of the people.”

Assuring the visiting delegation of the government’s readiness to deepen cooperation, he said, “We need the skills and the capacity

from your school. The world is now knowledge-driven. I wish to implore you to have a very warm and robust partnership with the government and people of Nigeria.”

The Vice President further explained recent economic decisions of the government, including fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange reforms, saying, “the removal of fuel subsidy, the unification of the exchange rate regime and the revolution in the energy sector are all painful processes, but at the end of the day, the Nigerian people will laugh last.

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

As part of efforts at repositioning and restructuring operations of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund, (NSITF), the Fund’s management said it has recorded significant progress in several areas.

A statement signed by Deputy General Manager and head Corporate Affairs Department, NSITF, Alexandria Mede, said the reforms have resulted in an unprecedented settling of 22,350 claims in 2024 only. She said since the appointment of Oluwaseun Faleye as the managing

director of NSITF, he has taken NSITF to greater heights.

Her words: “Apart from initiating series of actions and programmes aimed at achieving his goal for a better social welfare service delivery in Nigeria, Faleye has significantly expanded the scope of the social insurance scheme to cover the informal sectors.

“One of such initiatives is the motivation and upskilling of the Fund’s workforce through improved welfare package, training and retraining. Mr. Seun Faleye believes that a well-motivated staff

is essential to the success of the organisation.

“The MD has strengthened stakeholders’ engagement by bringing stakeholders representing employers, labour and government together at many fora organized by the Fund to promote synergy and transparency and better acquaint stakeholders with the operations and mandate of the Fund.

“Such stakeholders’ engagements have yielded positive results with some elected legislators facilitating NSITF’s community engagements in their constituencies,” she said.

Nume Ekeghe Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) has increased the cost of its SMS transaction alerts from N4 to N6 per message, with the new rate taking effect today, May 1, 2025. The bank attributes the change to a recent hike in telecom service charges by mobile network providers. In a customer notice, GTBank said the adjustment was necessary to reflect the rising cost of delivering SMS notifications, a service it

described as essential for helping customers monitor and secure their bank accounts.

It stated: “Please be informed that effective Thursday, May 1 2025, the SMS transaction alert fee will increase from #4 to A6 per message. This adjustment is due to a recent increase in telecom rates as communicated by the telecommunication service providers. Kindly note that transaction alerts are important and help you keep track and stay in control of activities on your account.”

Tinubu okays organising committee

President Bola Tinubu has approved the composition of an Oversight Committee to organise Nigeria’s hosting of the 4th African Union Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Forum scheduled to hold between June 23 and 27 in Abuja.

The theme of the 2025 edition of the Forum is “Building Resilient MSMEs through Digital Innovation, Market Access & Affordable Financing for Africa”.

According to a release issued on Wednesday by the Media Assistant to the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, the Committee shall, among other objectives, ensure adequate planning for the successful hosting of the Forum, which will feature paper

presentations, panel discussions, sponsored side events, exhibitions/ networking and MSME Business pitching events and presentation of prizes to deserving Nigerian entrepreneurs.

The committee chaired by the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), Senator Ibrahim Hadejia, has the following as members: Ministers of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani; Art, Culture, Tourism & The Creative Economy, Hon. Hannatu Musawa and Minister of State, Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator John Owan Enoh.

Other committee members include, Executive Director Nigerian Export

Promotion Council (NEPC), Mrs. Nonye Ayeni; Executive Secretary Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), Mrs. Aisha Rimi; MD Bank of Industry, Dr. Olasupo Olusi; Chairman Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Mr. Zacch Adedeji; MD/CEO NEXIM BANK, Mr. Abba Bello; DG SMEDAN, Mr. Charles Odii; President NACCIMA, Dele Kelvin Oye, Esq and Deputy Director (African Union Division), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Anthony N. Alonwu.

Special Adviser to the President on Job Creation and MSMEs, Office of the Vice President, Mr. Temitola Adekunle-Johnson, will serve as the Host Country Coordinator and secretary of the committee.

Martins receiving Eyo figurine from Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu,

courtesy call to the governor at the Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja on Tuesday

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

James Emejo in Abuja

Shareholders of the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN), yesterday approved the sum of N5.83 billion as dividend for the 2024 financial year.

This translated to N58.35 kobo per unit of shares held by shareholders.

Shareholders further approved the bank’s bid to invest $2.5 million in Naira equivalent, and take equity share in the proposed Youth Entrepreneurship Investment Bank (YEIB).

The development bank’s shareholders include the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA), African Development Bank (AfDB), and the European Investment Bank (EIB).

The federal government of remains the ultimate beneficial owner of the shares held by MOFI and NSIA in DBN.

Speaking at the bank’s 8th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Abuja, Independent Non-Executive Director, DBN, Mr. Kyari Bukar, said the group achieved a strong financial performance, closing with a Profit Before Tax (PBT) of N38.8 billion, representing 60 per cent increase from N24.5 billion in 2023. This is as Managing Director/Chief Executive, DBN, Tony Okpanachi, said the bank had disbursed over N1.06 trillion in loans, supporting 711,819 MSMEs across various sectors and regions nationwide.

However, Return on Average Assets (ROAA) rose to six per cent, compared 10 4.6 per cent in 2023.

He said shareholders’ value was also enhanced, as Return on Average Equity (ROAE) increased to15.3 per cent in 2024 from 10.9 per cent in 2023.

Bukar further noted that the group continued to operate efficiently, reducing the cost to income ratio to 15.6 per cent in the review period from 17.9 per cent in 2023.

He said the group achieved a remarkable 53 per cent growth in gross earnings, rising to N84 billion in 2024 from N54.8 billion in 2023.

The growth was primarily driven by an increase in volume of disbursements throughout the year and higher yields on the average loan portfolio. Furthermore, income from loans increased of 55 per cent, to N58.5 billion compared to N37.8 billion in 2023.

In addition, total assets size grew by 40 per cent year-on-year to N759.1 billion in 2024 from N544 billion 2023.

He said total assets have grew at 11 per cent CAGR over five years period, increasing from N493.5 billion in 2020 to N759.1 billion by December 31, 2024.

The growth reflected a strategic focus on lending, as evidenced by the bank’s record disbursement of N273 billion in the year. This underscored its commitment to playing a catalytic role in improving MSMEs access to finance.

Also, loan portfolio grew by seven per cent year-on-year to N438.5 billion from N410.3 billion in 2023. Over the last five years, loan portfolio had grown at a CAGR of 20 per cent.

Bukar said DBN recorded two major milestones in the year under review - its accreditation by the Green Climate Fund (GCF) as the first Direct Access Entity (DEA) and sole authorised channel in Nigeria for accessing green financing from the GCF.

This makes DBN a major player in the country’s fight against climate change, contributing significantly to

the country’s pursuit of sustainable development.

He said the bank also reached a significant milestone of N1 trillion in total disbursements to MSMEs since its inception in 2017.

He said, “The bank will remain steadfast in offering financial support, capacity building and advocating for MSMEs in Nigeria.

“As we move forward, DBN remains fully committed to its mandate of accelerating sustainable economic development through MSME empowerment.

“Our focus will be on deepening

financial inclusion, leveraging technology for greater impact, and fostering partnerships to drive innovation and scalability.”

However, Okpanachi, said the bank has disbursed over N1.06 trillion in loans, supporting 711,819 MSMEs across various sectors and regions nationwide.

He said the milestone represented a 35 per cent increase in total disbursement value and 44 per cent growth in the number of MSMEs impacted compared to the previous year, underscoring the bank’s unwavering commitment to driving

financial inclusion and sustainable economic growth.

According to him, DBN achieved a notable milestone in 2024, surpassing N1 trillion in cumulative loan disbursements.

He said, “This was made possible through strategic collaborations with our 79 Participating Financial Institutions (PFIs), further strengthening nancial inclusion and driving sustainable economic growth.

“At Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN), we remained steadfast in our commitment to empowering MSMEs, a critical pillar of Nigeria’s economy.

NDLEA to Military: We Will Make it Very Difficult for Terrorists, Criminals to Access Hard Drugs

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) yesterday assured the military authorities that it will continue to make the availability and access to hard drugs extremely difficult for terrorists and criminals, as part of its contribution to the fight against terrorism and other emerging threats in the country.

The Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier General Buba Marwa

(Rtd), gave this assurance during the commissioning of Defence Holdings Company Limited Office Complex at Guzape, Asokoro, Abuja.

Applauding the ongoing efforts of the military towards ensuring the security of Nigeria, General Marwa stated the Armed Forces of Nigeria are doing very well in tackling the monumental security challenges confronting the nation, while also wishing them more success in the field.

According to him, “I must reiterate the direct connection between the use of hard drugs and all forms of criminality, insurgency, terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, etc.

“They are all directly associated with the use of hard drugs, and I want to give assurances that the NDLEA will continue to make the

availability and access to hard drugs extremely difficult for criminals.

“Let me congratulate the CDS on this wonderful innovation, which was non-existent in our time in the military, where senior officers literally retired into oblivion.”

The Special Guest of Honour and Minister of Defence, Badaru Abubakar, expressed hope that a better future in the development of the Nigerian military is being rekindled.

He said: “We are not just commissioning a new company; we are embarking on a journey that will shape the future of the military’s contribution to our economic development and its non-kinetic efforts.

“The Defence Holdings Company Limited will contribute to the

welfare of the personnel of the armed forces in various ways. The company is more than just a collection of businesses; it is a platform for innovation, a catalyst for growth, and a beacon of hope for a brighter future.”

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi, assured that his ministry will continue to collaborate with the Nigerian armed forces in their onerous task of ensuring that the Nigerian state is safe for everyone to live in.

He revealed that, in the past two years, President Bola Tinubu’s administration has invested heavily in platforms and other military hardware for the Nigerian military to continue to undertake its assignments.

The Nigeria-Mexico Chamber of Commerce (NMCC) has been inaugurated to enhance trade relations between Nigeria and Mexico. The inauguration took place in Abuja on Tuesday where members of the Board of Directors were introduced to the public.

The Ambassador of Mexico to Nigeria, Amb. Alfredo Miranda, during the inauguration ceremony organised by the embassy in Abuja described NMCC as a new chapter in the economic, cultural and strategic relations between the two great nations.

He stated that NMCC would bridge businesses, ideas, innovation and opportunities between Nigeria

and Mexico, as two countries rich in heritage, resilient in spirit and bold in ambition.

According to him, the NMCC would serve as a catalyst and provide critical support to businesses from both countries, promote trade and investment, offer market intelligence and foster mutual understanding.

Miranda said: “This is the moment we are certain will work, create new narrative and show to people that together Nigeria and Mexico are big power houses.

“The two countries do wonderful work for their continents. We have to continue working in trade; this is why it is important to focus on these strategic areas and see the capacity of some countries.

“I believe that in the future, we

will have more positive figures than what we have just done.”

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, underscored the need for both countries to strengthen their bilateral ties to harness economic potential.

Tuggar, who was represented by Amb. Anderson Madubuike, Director, Economic, Trade and Investment Department of the ministry, said: “There are so much that the two countries can do in advancing global economy, good enough this NMCC has come at auspicious moment.

“By talking about globalisation we are saying African countries must come together to take their rightful places in the committee of nations.”

sylvester idowu in Warri

Former military governor of the defunct South Eastern State, Cross River and Akwa Ibom States, Major General Paul Ufuoma Omu (retd) is dead.

General Omu died aged 85 years. Son of the deceased, Mr. Oghenekome Ufuoma Omu, announced the demise of the General yesterday on behalf of the family.

from a humble background. His determination and intellect paved the way for a distinguished career in the Nigerian Army. Omu joined the military in the early 1960s, a period of critical political upheavals in Nigeria. He rose through the ranks due to his leadership qualities and commitment to duty. Omu underwent rigorous military training both in Nigeria and abroad, including at prestigious

institutions like the Nigerian Military Training College and the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom. His career saw him serve in various capacities, including during the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970), where he played critical roles in maintaining the unity of the nation. General Omu’s most notable contribution to Nigerian governance came during his tenure as the military governor of the SouthEastern State from May 1975 to July 1978 under the military regimes of General Murtala Mohammed and General Olusegun Obasanjo.

Linus Aleke in Abuja

L-R: Founder, Nike Art Gallery, Chief Nike Davies-Okundaye receiving a plaque from the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, when she visited the governor in his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, on Wednesday.

Michael olugbode in Abuja

STRATEGIC MEETING WITH THE EXCO OF ASSOCIATION OF WASTE MANAGERS...

L-R: President, Association of Waste Managers of Nigeria (AWAM), Mr. Gbenga Adebola; Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Dr. Gaji Omobolaji; Honourable Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab; and Managing Director, Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, during a strategic meeting with the Exco of AWAM, at the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources conference room, Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos State, yesterday

May Day: Akpabio, Atiku

Hail Nigerian Workers, Say They Are Engine Propelling the Nation

NLC alleges compression of civil space

have always prioritised nation above any consideration.

demanding for their rights or seeking legal redress.

burdens of our economic aspirations with silent heroism.

driving force behind the country’s growth and development.

President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has commended Nigerian workers for their productivity, diligence, commitment to duty and resilience even in the face of socioeconomic challenges.

Also, a former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar, has declared that the Nigerian worker stood as the indomitable engine propelling the nation towards its long-sought prosperity.

At the same time, a former federal lawmaker and 2023 governorship aspirant in Rivers State, Dr. Farah Dagogo, has advocated improved welfare packages that would reflect the courage and sacrifices made daily by Nigerian workers.

But the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has lamented that the civic space in Nigeria was being compressed.

Akpabio, in a statement through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, acknowledged the hardwork and dedication of the Nigerian workers, noting that they

“Today, we celebrate the hard work and dedication of Nigerian workers. We, in the Senate and of course, the National Assembly, acknowledge your invaluable contributions to our nation’s development.

“I commend your resilience in the face of challenges and recognise your role in driving our economy forward. Despite obvious challenges, you remain the backbone of our economy.

“I salute your unwavering commitment to excellence and productivity. Your contributions are vital to our nation’s progress,” he said.

The Senate President assured the workers that, the 10th National Assembly under his leadership would continue to prioritise the welfare, security, safety and condition of service of the workers noting that labour-friendly legislations would be accorded their deserved attention.

Akpabio also promised to ensure that the rights of workers were duly guaranteed and complied with, adding that, “Under our eyes, no Nigerian worker will be victimised on account of expressing himself or herself either in

“I must say that Nigerian workers are our pride and we will not shirk our responsibility working together with the Executive to address workers’ concerns and create opportunities for growth and prosperity. Together, we shall build a brighter future for Nigerian workers and our great nation.”

On his part, Atiku, in a statement by his media office, extolled the immeasurable contributions of Nigerian workers, asserting that their resilience and sacrifice were the very heartbeat of national development.

He emphasised that the true spirit of Workers’ Day could only be fully realised when both government and private sector leaders place the welfare of workers at the forefront of national discourse and action.

Atiku noted that the condition of the workforce was a mirror reflecting the health and vitality of a nation’s economy — an undeniable barometer of socio-economic well-being.

“In the face of relentless hardship and meagre compensation, Nigerian workers have continued to bear the

“Yet, it is disheartening that those entrusted with the reins of policy and governance have failed to reciprocate this steadfast commitment with tangible acts of support and justice.”

He expressed deep concern that amid prevailing economic adversity, the current government has not deemed it necessary to roll out any meaningful palliative measures to cushion the suffering of workers.

Atiku implored the leadership of labour unions to persist in their noble crusade for good governance, describing their advocacy as the final bastion of hope for the average Nigerian. He reiterated that their voices must continue to echo the call for accountability, transparency, and equity.

Speaking, also, the former federal lawmaker, in a statement to commemorate the 2025 International Workers’ Day, paid glowing tribute to Nigerian workers, and applauded their resilience, diligence, and unwavering commitment to national service.

He described workers in both public and private sectors as the

Investors Write President Tinubu, Seek Intervention Over $250m Investment Loss

A group of foreign investors has written an open letter to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to intervene in the alleged destruction of their investments worth over $250 million.

The investors in the letter, claimed that an unauthorised diversion of the Lagos-Calabar coastal road project has severely damaged their property, the Winhomes Global Services estate at Okun Ajah in Lagos State.

They expressed disappointment and betrayal, stating that they had trusted the current administration to uphold transparency, fairness, and the rule of law.

They noted that they decided to invest in Nigeria’s development based on the Renewed Hope Agenda and believed in the promise of a new Nigeria. They, however, alleged that the actions of some government officials had raised concerns about the government’s commitment to protecting investments.

The investors refuted claims that a marine cable project necessitated the inland diversion, citing technical reports that show the cable’s location

is offshore and nowhere near the gazetted alignment.

They warned that the unlawful demolition of their estate without proper consultation, compensation, or adherence to due process risks damaging Nigeria’s international credibility and deterring future foreign direct investment.

The group called on Tinubu to take immediate action, including by halting the demolition activities at Okun Ajah.

They also appealed to the President to launch an independent investigation into the diversion.

They demanded compensation and restitution for the affected investors and urged the federal government to hold accountable those responsible for violating established legal processes

The investors stressed that they had acted in good faith, purchasing the land lawfully and obtaining all requisite titles.

Without prompt redress, they threatened to escalate the matter internationally through diplomatic, legal, and media channels, risking further embarrassment for Nigeria’s investment climate.

The open letter highlighted grow-

ing tension over the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project, which has faced scrutiny over allegations of corruption, poor planning, and disregard for court orders.

“We believed in the promise of a new Nigeria under your leadership.

But what we have experienced is a harsh betrayal of that promise,” the letter partly read.

The investors are prepared to pursue both domestic and international legal action if their grievances are not addressed.

Farah noted that their contributions have continued to sustain the nation’s core sectors despite prevailing socioeconomic challenges.

“Workers remain the bedrock of any society. Their sacrifice, dedication, and professionalism deserve our deepest appreciation. In the face of daunting challenges, Nigerian workers have continued to rise to the occasion.

The general populace is truly in your debt,” he said.

Farah urged workers, especially those facing hazardous or strenuous conditions, not to be dispirited, assuring them that their sacrifices were not unnoticed.

NLC Alleges Compression of Civil Space

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has lamented that the civic space in Nigeria was being compressed.

NLC’s position came just as arrangements have concluded to observe this year’s May Day celebration at the Eagles Square in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory today.

It alleged that security agents were being used to restrict citizens from freely expressing themselves.

President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, who spoke at the 2025 Pre-May Day Lecture jointly organised by NLC and Trade Union Congress (TUC) yesterday in Abuja, raised concerns that the civic space in Nigeria was increasingly being undermined as workers and unions no longer have the space to freely express themselves in a country

“The civic space is being compressed. Even last two weeks or

last week, the people came out to protest police stopped them in Port Harcourt and other places. These days, protests are being fought, people are not allowing Nigeria to freely protest.

“Even that of minimum wage and hardship we tried and they tried to stop us. Forces are being used to compress the civic space and if you do that, you match the end to democracy even those sponsoring it will be the potential victims of it.

“I can tell you, all the people there now are beneficiaries of the suffering of some of us, who protested the military stay in office, annulment of June 12 and all that.

“None of them was known, their names are not even known in their community. If the civic space was closed, none of them will be in National Assembly, none will be a governor today.

“I think they’re having a momentary relief, it’s not going to last. It is the duty of the civil society, the labour movement to make sure that we’ll fight for the civic space to open.”

Ajaero, who noted that student protests had been caged and many voices were being sponsored to work against popular views, said the labour movement in Nigeria would continue to talk truth to power, fight for the rights of Nigerians,

In his pre-May Day lecture, a Professor of international law, Christopher Chukwuma, called for the review of laws and policies especially the Cybercrime Act and the Public Order Act, which were restricting and criminalising civic engagement in the country.

Chukwuma said the country could not be said to be practising democracy, when citizens were not allowed to protest against bad policies.

Nigerian Universities Hit 295 After Licensing of 11, as FG Harps on STEM

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

Nigeria’s higher education landscape has expanded as the federal government has approved 11 new private universities, raising the national tally to 295 institutions.

Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, presented provisional licenses to the new universities in Abuja on Wednesday, urging them to serve as engines of innovation, talent development, and global relevance.

The institutions include City University, Ayetoro (Ogun); University of Fortune, Igbotako (Ondo); Eranova

University; and Minaret University, Ikirun (Osun Annex). Others are Abubakar Toyin University, Oke-Agba (Kwara); Lens University, Ilemona (Kwara); Monarch University, IyesiOta (Ogun); and Southern Atlantic University, Uyo (Akwa Ibom). Also listed are Tonnie Iredia University of Communication, Benin City; Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management, Lagos; and Kevin Eze University, Mgbowo (Enugu).

Dr. Alausa stressed that Nigeria’s development hinges on graduates equipped with life skills and technical expertise.

“We have more than enough social science graduates, with due respect,” he said.

“What Nigeria needs now are problem solvers - nurses, engineers, pharmacists - capable of powering industries and building infrastructure.”

He challenged the universities to align with the national STEM and vocational education priorities, form strategic local and global partnerships, and prioritize quality over quantity.

“The future of higher education is collaborative. We must think beyond borders,” Alausa said. Minister of State for Education,

Prof. Suwaiba Said Ahmad, called the development “a milestone in improving access to tertiary education,” while NUC Executive Secretary Prof. Abdullahi Yusuf Ribadu emphasized the provisional status of the licenses and the importance of adhering to regulations.

JAMB Registrar, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, advised institutions to maintain academic integrity and avoid imposing religious ideologies. He added that with 159 private universities now operating, Nigeria is steadily shifting toward diversified, skills-focused education.

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

Chuks Okocha, Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

INAUGURATION OF UNIVERSITY GOVERNING COUNCIL...

L-R: Vice Chancellor, Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences, Prof. Olugbenga Aribisala; Pro-Chancellor and Chairperson of the Governing Council, Senator Binta Garba; Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele; Board Chairman, National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion, Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi; Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa; and Oluyin of Iyin Ekiti, Oba Adeniyi Ajakaye, at the inauguration of the University Governing Council in the office of the minister in Abuja, Tuesday

Dele Momodu, Wike Differ on Atiku’s 2023 Presidential Race

Chuks Okocha and Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Ovation Magazine Publisher and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Dele Momodu, has accused the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, of frustrating Peter Obi out of the PDP.

But Wike, in his reply, has rebuked Momodu as a mischievous person, only supporting Atiku Abubakar because of the money he stands to get.

In the build-up to the 2023 general election, Obi dumped the PDP for the Labour Party (LP), where he emerged as the party’s presidential candidate.

Speaking during an interview on Arise Television on Wednesday, Momodu said Wike was the reason Obi left the PDP.

He explained that ahead of the 2023 election, Atiku wanted the PDP to cede power to the Southeast rather than rotating it within a few regions.

He explained that Wike could have benefited from Atiku’s suggestion if he had not dissociated himself from the Southeast region.

According to Momodu, Wike disqualified himself by saying he was not an Igbo man, adding that the former governor of Rivers State declared that he was not interested in any Igbo agenda.

Since the PDP was considering zoning its presidential ticket to the Southeast, Momodu alleged that Wike subsequently frustrated Obi out of the party to emerge as the party’s

John Shiklam in Kaduna

The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Dioceses, and Pro-Chancellor of Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, Kaduna State, Bishop Mathew Hassan Kukah, has commended the Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani for his efforts in stabilising the state.

Kukah made the commendation yesterday when he led the management of the university to a courtesy call on the governor at Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, Kaduna.

The clergyman also lauded Sani for going beyond the call of duty in making the establishment of the university a reality.

Kukah said the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Barnabas Qurix, has been visiting relevant ministries, departments and agencies of government to facilitate the commencement of academic session in the university.

He said the university which was

presidential candidate. According to the Ovation publisher, “It was the same Wike people complaining about north-south that brought the committee through our party primary open. That’s why I was able to buy a form.

“I bought a form because, at that time, Atiku had told them that if they ceded power to the southeast, then it would make sense to him, but if it would still be a rotation between just a few zones, he would not support it.

‘’He wanted them to cede power to the southeast. But because Wike had already disqualified himself by saying he’s not an Igbo man, he said he’s from south-south, he’s not interested in Igbo anything. So, he succeeded in frustrating Peter Obi out of the party, and the coast was clear for Nyesom Wike.”

The PDP chieftain further explained that the opposition party did not have a zoning problem until Wike and his allies within the party started using it to push a north-south agenda for the party’s presidential ticket.

In his reply, Wike, through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, said Momodu would cease to support Atiku the moment the largess ceased to flow into his pocket.

“Only someone like Dele Momodu, who does not have knowledge of anything apart from his stomach would claim that it was Wike that

being built on the pioneering efforts of the former NOK University, would be one of the best institutions in the country.

“The university will commence academic session in September but it has a few challenges that will require the intervention of Kaduna State.

“The university will need more infrastructure in the coming years and for this reason, it requires more land for expansion. The school will also require access road, utility vehicles and adequate security,” Kukah said.

Responding, the governor said he had been working closely with Kukah, nothing that the clergyman was a pillar of support.

Sani said his doors were always opened for consultation amongst the diverse people of Kaduna State, irrespective of their ethno-religious or party affiliations.

He said his developmental strides in Kaduna state was made possible because of the prevailing peace in

drove Peter Obi out of the PDP,” he said.

He asserted that Atiku has been the weapon fashioned against the PDP since he frustrated the party’s efforts to win Lagos State in 2003. He lambasted Momodu for lying on national television that Atiku wanted the PDP to cede power to the Southeast in 2023, asking why Atiku obtained Expression of Interest Form to contest for the PDP presidential ticket even when the Zoning Committee was yet to decide on zoning arrangement.

His words: “In his display of arrogance or mischief, Dele Momodu claimed that Atiku wanted PDP to field presidential candidate from the eastern part of the country, but he chose not to mention that the same Atiku had obtained Expression of Interest Form even when no decision had been taken on zoning.

“Also, was it Wike that made it Senator Gbenga Daniel, who was the Director General of Atiku Campaign to leave PDP less than two weeks after the 2019 presidential election?

“Was it Wike that made Atiku’s

running mate in the 2023 election, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa to leave the PDP?

Former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Udom Emmanuel was the Chairman of the PDP Presidential Campaign in 2023, his successor, Governor Umo Eno is on his way out of the PDP.

“The question is, why did everyone who worked closely with Atiku during the 2019 and 2023 leave him after the election? The reason can only be because someone is a selfish person who is only about himself alone.

“He (Dele Momodu) also claimed that Wike could have benefited from Atiku’s suggestion if he had not dissociated himself from the Southeast region, obviously forgetting that Wike is a proud Ikwerre man, unlike Dele Momodu who isn’t proud of his Edo origin,” Olayinka said. Wike’s spokesman described Dele Momodu as a fair-weather friend, saying: “We are hearing all this noise from him because Atiku is paying his bills. Let Atiku stops paying, Oga Dele Momodu will move to the next victim.”

FBI, Other US Agencies Set to Release Reports on Alleged Drug Case of Tinubu

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Several government agencies in the United States of America are set to release investigation reports related to an alleged drug-related case involving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The release date for the reports has been scheduled for tomorrow, Friday, May 2, 2025, when the agencies are expected to comply with the order.

The agencies involved are the U.S. Department of Justice (US

Kaduna

the state.

Sani said peace was achieved because of his administration’s policy of taking development to every part of the state, irrespective of whether or not the area voted for him.

The governor said the state ministry of education would make funds available to the university through the Tertiary Education Tax fund (TETFUND).

Sani promised to allocate more land to the university, adding that the Managing Director of Kaduna State Roads Agency(KADRA) would assess the roads in the school for necessary action.

On security, the governor noted that although there were many military formations in Kachia, he promised to collaborate with the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), to strengthen security.

He also promised to look into the issue of provision of utility vehicles for the university.

Attorneys), Department of State, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).

The development followed an order by Judge Beryl Howell of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia.

In early April, the court instructed

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

Media Aide to the Senate President, Aniete Ekong, has described as false, claims that the jailed INEC Electoral Officer, Prof. Peter Ogban, was convicted for rigging election in favour his principal, Senator Godswill Akpabio,and the All Progressives Congress (APC) .

Ekong, in a statement, yesterday, said the allegation was unfounded, spurious, malicious and intended to tarnish the image of the President of the Senate.

He said, “I had then, in a statement as his Chief Press Secretary, stated this much while reacting to the claim by Peoples Democratic Party(PDP), that Ogban was working towards rigging the election in Akpabio’s favour.

“To put the record in perspective, The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), had reported that Ogban, a professor of Soil Science at the University of Calabar was sentenced to three years imprisonment by an Akwa Ibom High Court for electoral fraud.

“This was after he was found

all agencies with the exception of the CIA to jointly submit reports on the status of any outstanding issues in the case and release the related documents on May 2. The court order stemmed from a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) lawsuit filed in June 2023 by an American transparency advocate, Aaron Greenspan. Greenspan accused the agencies of violating FOIA regulations by failing to release documents related to alleged federal investigations into President Tinubu and an associate, Abiodun Agbele. Judge Howell ruled that government’s refusal to release the requested information was “neither logical nor plausible,” thereby clearing the way for the documents to become public.

guilty of fraudulent manipulation of the election results of Akwa Ibom North- West Senatorial District held on Feb. 23, 2019.

“Akpabio, who was APC’s candidate at the election seeking re-election to the Senate, was rather a victim of the fraudulent manipulation of the election.

“In their desperation in a continuing campaign of calumny against Akpabio, they twisted the context of the judgment and maliciously claimed that the election was rigged in his favour.

“Nothing could be further from the truth, the facts of the case put a lie to this assertion. Contrarily, Akpabio was a victim of the fraudulent manipulation of the election of Akwa Ibom North- West Senatorial District held on Feb. 23, 2019.

“He is vindicated that the perpetrators of the electoral fraud are being brought to justice, at last the chickens are coming home to roost. Akpabio did approach the National Assembly Election Tribunal to challenge the outcome of the election.

“In that election, Akpabio’s votes

totaling about 61,329 scored at his home Local Government Area (LGA) – Essien Udim, having been collated, were not announced by Ogban in accordance with the provisions of the Electoral Act.

“Rather, Ogban who served as the Senatorial District Returning Officer joined the Resident Electoral Commissioner in Uyo, where the votes and scores of Akpabio were cancelled in various polling units and collation centers of various LGAs constituting Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District.

“This was including 61,329 votes of his home LGA. The National Assembly Election Tribunal and the Court of Appeal invalidated the election and a rerun was ordered in Essien Udim LGA. Sentencing Ogban had vindicated Akpabio and the APC that the election was massively rigged.

“I wonder why Akpabio would challenge the outcome of the election up to the Court of Appeal, which upheld his appeal and ordered a rerun election if he was a beneficiary of the election fraud.

LAUNCH OF CORONATION TRUSTEES HALAL ESTATE PLANNING...

Olukoyede: EFCC Will Prosecute All Suspects Irrespective of Party Affiliation

Explains why commission hasn’t charged Betta Edu, Matawalle, others

The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, yesterday insisted that the anti-graft agency will investigate and prosecute all financial crimes offenders despite their political parties.

The EFCC boss, who said this in an interview with a national television, explained that the commission had never been selective in its investigation and prosecution process. He added

that it will continue to work in line with its mandate.

Asked if the commission will still go ahead with the investigation and prosecution of the immediate past governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, after he defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Olukoyede said: “I do not belong to any political party and I have not been appointed as the secretary or the chairman of any political party.

“If Nigerians would also be fair to us, if you take the statistics of

our work, in regards to the area of investigation, prosecution, particularly high-profile cases, you can perhaps find more of the members of the ruling party that the EFCC has prosecuted. So we must also be judged fairly.”

“It will be unfair to us if people think that we are only investigating people that are in the opposition parties or that we close our eyes to other members who perhaps are not members of the ruling political party.”

Olukoyede said the EFCC would

never be influenced by political statements, stressing that the commission is strictly guided by the provisions of the law.

“For the particular case (Ifeayin Okowa) you mentioned, you will agree with me that we started that investigation way back. So for somebody to have now introduced politics into it, such a person is not fair to EFCC,” he added.

He explained that Okowa was not the only former governor of a state that the EFCC has invited, insisting that any former governor who was

Alleged Money Laundering: Court Orders Aisha Achimugu’s Release on EFCC’s Bail

Alex Enumah in Abuja

Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court, Abuja, yesterday, ordered the release of renowned businesswoman and socialite, Aisha Sulaiman Achimugu, on the administrative bail earlier granted her by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Justice Ekwo issued the order shortly after the applicant was brought before the court by the

anti-graft agency.

While the Commission had on March 28, declared the female socialite wanted over an alleged case of criminal conspiracy and money laundering, she surrendered herself to the EFCC on Tuesday morning in Abuja, immediately on her arrival from London.

Ekwo had in a short ruling on Monday, ordered Achimugu to present herself to the EFCC in respect of a case of money laundering allegations against her.

The judge had also directed that Achimugu must be presented before him on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, to continue proceedings in the fundamental rights suit pending before his court.

Although Achimugu’s lawyer had assured the court that the applicant would comply with the orders of the court by presenting herself to the Commission on Tuesday but, she eventually surrendered herself to operatives of the EFCC on arrival from London.

In compliance with the orders of the court, Achimugu was brought to the court around 11:35am by the anti-graft agency, sandwiched by two female EFCC’s operatives. However, following her appearance in court, the judge ordered that she be released in the next 24 hours, in line with an earlier administrative bail granted her by the EFCC. Meanwhile, the matter has been adjourned till May 2, for continuation of hearing.

involved in financial crimes while in office, will be investigated and prosecuted by the EFCC.

When asked about the status of the case of the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu, sacked last year over alleged fraud and corruption, Olukoyede noted that investigations had yet to be completed.

She was initially suspended in January before her sack in April last year for allegedly diverting the sum of $640,000 of public money into a personal bank account.

The commission had in its preliminary investigation uncovered over 50 bank accounts linked to the funds and promised to get to the root of the matter, adding that anyone culpable would not be spared.

“There are cases we concluded within three months, some six months”, he said, adding that the commission just filed a charge against a person whose investigation started since 2007.

“We want to be more diligent to have a water-tight case”, he said, “this case involved about 27 other suspects and 174 bank accounts. “Do you know what it takes to investigate 174 bank accounts?” he queried.

While disclosing that the commission has to write to the banks involved, do analysis relating to

transactions involving the said accounts, the EFCC chairman stated that until he has a water-tight case he “will not be stampeded to court”. He however, assured that all those found culpable at the end of investigation would be definitely prosecuted, adding that Nigeria should give the anti-graft agency, “time to build our case.”

When asked about the position of another former Humanitarian Affairs minister, Sadiya Umar Farooq, who served under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari as well as former Zamfara governor and current Minister of Defence, Mr Bello Matawalle, the EFCC boss responded that, “it is the same thing with all the cases we have not concluded”.

Meanwhile, Olukoyede denied allegations that the commission disregarded the rule of law in the arrest of Aisha Achimugu on Tuesday, after her lawyers had hinted that she would be surrendering to the commission for investigation. He explained that Achimugu had jumped earlier bail granted her by the EFCC, hence her arrest in Abuja. Besides, he pointed out that the Commission had declared Achimugu a wanted person after she ignored EFCC’s invitation of March 5 and traveled out of the country on March 7.

NJC Asks Uzodimma to Appoint Most Senior Judge, Suspends 3 Justices

Wale Igbintade

The National Judicial Council (NJC) has asked the Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, to appoint the most senior judicial officer in the State High Court as Acting Chief Judge, in line with Section 271(4) of the 1999 Constitution.

In a statement by its Deputy Director of Information, Kemi Babalola, the NJC under the chairmanship of the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, said it reached the decision during its 108th meeting.

The council also suspended three serving judicial officers for one year without pay over various acts of misconduct and empanelled nine committees to investigate pending complaints against 27 judicial officers.

The council clarified that the constitutional provision for appoint-

ing an acting chief judge does not allow for discretion. It further resolved to issue a query to Justice Theophilus Nnamdi Nzeukwu to explain, within seven days, why disciplinary action should not be taken against him for presenting himself to be sworn in as Acting Chief Judge of Imo State. Similarly, Justice V.U. Okorie, President of the Imo State Customary Court of Appeal, who served as Interim Chairman of the State Judicial Service Commission and who recommended Justice Nzeukwu, was also directed to show cause within seven days why he should not face disciplinary action for his role.

Justice Jane Inyang of the Court of Appeal, Uyo Division, was suspended for one year without pay for violating Rule 3(5) of the Revised Code of Conduct for Judicial

lacking merit

Officers.

She was found to have abused her office by issuing inappropriate ex parte orders allowing the sale of Hon. Udeme Esset’s petrol station and other businesses during an interlocutory stage in Suit No. FHC/UY/CS/46/2023 while at the Federal High Court, Uyo, before her elevation.

Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court, Abuja Division, was also suspended for one year without pay. He was placed on the council’s watch list for five years and barred from elevation within the same period.

He was found to have ruled on Charge No. FHC/ABJ/CR/184/2021 without hearing the parties or considering an application to set aside proceedings conducted in their absence, thereby violating rules 3.1 and 3.3 of the Judicial Code.

Besides, Justice Aminu Baffa Aliyu of the Federal High Court, Zamfara Division, was suspended for one year without pay and placed on a three-year watch list.

He was found liable for judicial misconduct in Suit No. FHC/GS/ CS/30/2021, where he restrained security agencies from performing their statutory duties and disregarded judicial precedents.

Also, Justice A.O. Awogboro of the Federal High Court, Lagos Division, received a letter of caution following a petition by Kasali Azeez Olagoke and S. Hamza regarding Suit No. FHC/CS/2021.

The petition against Justice Othman A. Musa of the FCT High Court was suspended pending the outcome of a Court of Appeal decision in Suit No. FCT/HS/BW/2274/15. A petition against Justice C.N. Mbonu Nwenyi of the Anambra State High

Court by Prof. Paul C. Obianaso was dismissed after investigations found no misconduct.

A separate petition against Justice I.E. Ekwo in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/ CS/321/2015 was also put in abeyance pending an appeal. Besides, a petition by Mrs. Adaku Amadi against Justice R.B. Haastrup of the National Industrial Court (NJC) was dismissed after the petitioner withdrew her complaint.

The council reviewed 43 petitions from its Preliminary Complaints Assessment Committee. Of these, nine committees were set up to further investigate 11 petitions, 29 were dismissed for lack of merit, and three were held in abeyance pending appellate court decisions.

A petition by Mahmud Aliyu against the 2022 appointment of three judges to the Zamfara State High Court was dismissed. The

Council found the petitioner, a candidate in the process, had made unsubstantiated claims based on falsehood and ruled that he be barred from future judicial selection exercises.

In another case, a petition by Abdullahi Liman challenging the 2021 recruitment of six Federal High Court judges was dismissed for being filed outside the six-month window stipulated by Section 11(1) of the Judicial Discipline Regulations.

A petition by Monday Adjeh on the unconstitutional composition of the Oyo State Judicial Service Commission was deemed overtaken by events.

The NJC accepted the voluntary retirement of Justice Babatunde Ahmed Ademola Bakre and approved the name change of Justice I.A. Osayande to Justice I.A. Dika of the Edo State High Court.

Alex Enumah in Abuja and Emma Okonji, Agnes Ekebuike in Lagos

L-R: Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Public Service, AbdulRasheed Muri-Okunola; Chief Executive Officer, Marble Capital Limited, Dr. Akeem Oyewale; Managing Director, Coronation Trustees Limited, Yemi Sadik; Daughter of the former Governor of Bauchi State, Halima Muazu; Former Bauchi State Governor, Adamu Muazu; Chairman/CEO, Yinka Folawiyo Group, Tunde Folawiyo; and Director, Investments and Structured Ventures, Yinka Folawiyo Group, Mohammed Folawiyo, at the launch of Coronation Trustees Halal Estate Planning in Lagos… recently

TOURBa sTaKEHOLdERs’ MEETiNG…

L-R: Agronomy Analyst, Tourba International, Omar Barbach; Lead Agonomist, Tourba Nigeria, Yusuf Ali Bello;; Country Manager, Tourba Nigeria, Opeoluwa Odunayo Filani; Commissioner for Agriculture, Bauchi State, Alhaji Iliyasu Aliyu Gital; Lead Agronomist, Tourba Morocco, Achraf Nejoum, and Programme Manager, Bauchi State Agric Development Programme, Yau Muhammad, at Tourba stakeholders’ engagement in Bauchi… recently

Arewa Group Urges FG to Legalise Possession of AK-47 for Self Defence

adedayo akinwale inabuja

The Arewa Grassroot Leaders Assembly (AGLA) has called on the federal government to legalise possession of AK-47 for self-defence in rural communities, with proper monitoring and regulation.

The President of the group, Hon. Collins Onogu, made the call while addressing a press conference yesterday in Abuja.

He said the call became imperative following the recent

‘How

wave of killings in Northern Nigeria, particularly in Plateau, Benue, Kaduna, Niger, and Zamfara states.

He lamented that these attacks have claimed hundreds of innocent lives, stressing that the situation was spiraling out of control.

Onogu added that the recent attacks have resulted in the loss of over 300 lives, saying it was a grim reminder of the security challenges facing the nation.

Giving a breakdown of the attacks, he recalled that on March

Young Professionals Can Succeed’

Immediate-past Managing Director of Ecobank Nigeria, Patrick Akinwuntan, has identified self-growth, the desire to become a better version of oneself, as key to achieving financial freedom in every profession.

Akinwuntan stressed the need to learn, relearn and unlearn, saying they are critical for success.

Those who want to succeed, he said, should not be afraid of failing.

Akinwuntan stated these at the Lagos Archdiocesan Young Catholic Professionals (YCP) Day 2025, with the theme, “Selfgrowth and financial freedom: Lessons from disruptors.”

The ex-bank chief, who was the keynote speaker said: “It is not about falling, but about what happens afterwards. A can-do spirit does not mean you’re right all the time.”

On how to attain financial

freedom, he advised young professionals to distinguish between consumption and investments, urging them to focus on acquiring assets that add value.

“Save 70 per cent of what you earn,” he advised, highlighting the need to start planning for retirement early while not living above one’s means, such as acquiring expensive rather than functional vehicles or gadgets.

Another secret of success, he said, is to look out for opportunities, which is what disruptors do.

According to him, disruptors see opportunities amid problems and try to solve them for the common good.

He highlighted qualities and characteristics for success, which include:vision, strategy, innovation, execution, growth, market share, returns, values and integrity, and faith.

ProjKonnect Commences Operations

Nigeria’s leading edutech firm, ProjKonnect, has announced the official commencement of its operations in an effort to champion a new wave of personalised learning for undergraduates, including young professionals, across the African continent.

In tandem with this historic milestone, the Founder of ProjKonnect, Paul Ojo, has strategically transitioned into a non-executive advisory role to strengthen the organisation’s corporate governance while the core management team oversees the operational execution of the company’s overarching mission.

The company said in the statement that the leadership restructuring reiterates its readiness to upscale its operational standards in a bid to provide bespoke AI-powered services aimed at transforming the careers

of young African professionals.

This is made evident as the founder steps into a passive strategic role to advance the firm’s overall vision, while the operational team leads on programme delivery, partnerships, and platform development.

Speaking about the new development, Ojo noted that the firm’s bold approach is hinged on the desire to create sustainable systems that transcend beyond individual leadership.

He said: “The vision has always been about building systems that outlast individuals. By empowering the management team and trusted consulting partners to take full charge of the firm’s operational delivery responsibilities, we are ensuring that ProjKonnect continues to thrive, innovate, and deliver value to African learners and institutions.”

5, 2025, Ruwi village, in Bokkos LGA of Plateau State was attacked with 12 people killed and eight people were killed in Pyakmalu village. Also, on April 3, 2025 Hurti,

Manguna, Daffo were attacked with 40 people killed, whereas on April 13-14, 2025 Zaki, Kimapwa, and Kwal villages in Bassa local government were attacked with over 56 people killed.

He said similarly on April 16, 2025, Bachit District in Riyom LGA was attacked by terrorists with five people killed Onogu added that on April 18, 2025, Ukum LGA, Ugondo, Logo,

state were attacked with 15 people killed.

IYC Seeks Proper Investigation of British Army Major’s Role in Arm Trafficking

British High Commission: Arrested Major was never commissioned officer

Olusegun samuel inyenagoa and Michael Olugbode in abuja

The umbrella body of the Ijaw youths worldwide, the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), has urged President Bola Tinubu and security agencies to properly investigate and prosecute the alleged involvement of a British Army Major in arm trafficking to Delta State.

But the British Government has said the military officer fingered in gun-running in Delta State was never a commissioned officer of United Kingdom Army.

IYC was reacting to a recent security developments in the Niger Delta, where on April 25, 2025, operatives of the Department of State

Services (DSS) carried out a covert operation near Asaba, Delta State, resulting in the seizure of 50 AK-47 rifles, six pump-action shotguns, and over 3,000 rounds of ammunition.

During the operation, an associate of the British Army, Major Micah Polo, were arrested in Asaba, while the Major himself was intercepted in Lagos as he attempted to board a flight to the United Kingdom. In a statement signed by its spokesman, Binebia Princewill, IYC also called on the British High Commission in Nigeria to collaborate by thoroughly investigating this issue with a view to bringing all those involved, no matter how highly placed, to face the full wrath of the law.

Ondo Amotekun Arrests 750, Arraigns 175 Suspects in Four Months

Fidelis david in akure

The Commander of the Ondo State Security Network Agency codenamed Amotekun, Adetunji Adeleye, has disclosed that the Corps under his watch profiled 750 and arraigned 175 crime suspects in the first quarter of the year.

Adeleye stated this yesterday while parading another 31 crime suspects arrested in the last two weeks across the 18 local government areas of the state.

Particularly, the Amotekun boss disclosed that besides the 175 suspects arraigned, others were still undergoing different stages of investigation.

His words: “Out of 150 suspected cultists arrested and profiled during the quarter, 80 among them were taken to court to sign undertaking to denounce the groups.

“Among the fresh 31 crime suspects being paraded, 13 were allegedly linked to the series of kidnap incidents that had taken place in the state in the recent time. Likewise, some of them were people supplying daily needs of kidnappers in their dens,” he said. Similarly, Adeleye disclosed that over 500 distress calls were received by the formation to which prompt responses were made.

Oborevwori: We Will Welcome

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed optimism that they would welcome former Governor James Ibori to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking during the vigil mass in honour of the former Deputy Governor of the state, Professor Amos Utuama, at St.

Andrew’s Catholic Church, Otu-Jeremi, Ughelli South Local Government Area , Oborevwori stressed the need for unity of the Urhobo political class.

Paying glowing tribute to the late Prof. Utuama, the governor highlighted his selfless contributions, saying: “I am very happy to be here today,

Ibori to APC

seeing this large gathering for one man. The preaching today is not about the dead, it is about the living.”

“To me, that is a kingdom investment.”

Governor Oborevwori prayed that the passing of the late Prof. Utuama would bring peace and unity to Ughelli South and the entire Urhobo nation.

“There are many things he did while he was alive. I will mention just a few key ones. The land allocated to him in Asaba while he was deputy governor, he donated it to the Catholic Church and also contributed to building the church.”

FG Promises to Secure Abuja from Environment, Climate Disasters

Michael Olugbode in abuja

The federal government said it would be moving headlong to secure the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja from imminent environment and climate disasters.

The Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal gave

the assurance of the nation’s commitment to its environmental and climate action goals, initiated in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and through targeted policies and programmes.

Speaking in Abuja during the 2025 Abuja City Environmental Sustainability Summit, with

the theme ‘Sustainable Urban Transformation: Building a resilient and green Abuja ‘, Lawal said climate impacts as well as great green wall and agro climate resilience in semi-arid landscape projects were undertaken by the ministry, which adapts to the impact of climate change, which promote just, equitable and inclusive growth.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mahmud Kambari, the minister said the ministry has demonstrated a growing commitment in developing and implementing policies and initiatives that integrate ecosystem restoration and sustainable management.

Ibas Reassures Civil Servants of Improved Working Conditions in Rivers

BlessingibungeinPortharcourt

The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd) has restated the state government’s dedication to improving working conditions for all civil servants in the state. The retired vice admiral made the

promise yesterday during a meeting with leadership of organised labour unions at the Government House, Port Harcourt. Ibas stated that his administration is committed to workers’ welfare and industrial harmony in the state. He assured all workers in the state of the government’s unwavering

commitment to their welfare and called for continued dedication to service delivery for the collective progress of the state.

The sole administrator speaking further, reaffirmed government’s policy of prompt payment of salaries and pensions to workers and retirees.

On salary arrears, he said:

“Approval has been given for payment of newly employed staff at Rivers State University Teaching Hospital and the Judiciary, while medical workers in Local Government Areas will now receive correct wages”, stating that “All Local Government employees are now receiving the approved minimum wage”.

Tyuluv, Gbagir in Benue state were attacked with about 56 persons killed and many injured; while on April 10, 2025, Kajuru LGA, Ungwan Jada of Kaduna

Barcelona, Inter Milan Settle for Draw in Six-goal Thriller

In what will be the talk of this season’s UEFA Champions League, FC Barcelona fought back twice to hold Inter Milan within the first 39 minutes of their first leg, semi final clash at Camp Nou on Wednesday night.

At the end of 90 minutes, there was no victor, no vanquish as both teams finished the spellbinding encounter 3-3.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Now, Champions League aficionados are salivating in waiting, for the deciding second leg clash in San Siro, next Tuesday.

Scorers Lamine Yamal and Denzel Dumfries expectedly shared top billing at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys.

Dumfries teed up Marcus Thuram for a flashy finish after 30 seconds – the fastest goal in a Champions League semi-final – then the Dutchman acrobatically doubled the Serie A champions’ lead.

Yamal got the LaLiga leaders back into it with a candidate for goal of the season on the 17-year-old’s 100th Barcelona appearance and Ferran Torres levelled from six yards to end a riveting first half on even note.

The Blaugrana were required to make a substitution three minutes to the break as Jules Kounde picked up a knock and removed for Eric

Garcia.

After an action-packed opening half, the Nerazzurri were also forced into a change where captain Lautaro Martinez made way for Mehdi Taremi.

Inter weren’t unsettled though and regained the lead a little later when Dumfries bombed in the sixyard box to head in a pin-point corner from Hakan Calhanoglu.

Barcelona, however, levelled 3-3 immediately after goalkeeper Yann Sommer helped a thumping

night

Flying Eagles Go for All Three Points against Tunisia’s Jnr Carthage Eagles

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Flying Eagles will this evening launch their campaign for an eighth Africa U20 title when Nigeria file out against the Junior Carthage Eagles of Tunisia at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo, in the opening match of Group B.

Flying Eagles Head Coach, Aliyu Zubairu, and his charges understand that they must take it one match at a time as they aspire for glory, with Cup holders Senegal (who head Group C), hosts Egypt (who head Group A) and four-time winners Ghana (in Group C) also in the hunt for honours.

Four-time champions Egypt (winners in 1981, 1991, 2003 and 2013) already pocketed three points from their opening match against South Africa on Sunday, while Zambia and Sierra Leone fought themselves to a scoreless draw.

Ghana have their work cut out in Group C, where they must negotiate survival with title-holders Senegal, a Central African Republic side that eliminated Cameroon, and the nifty Democratic Republic of Congo. Nigeria must beware of the host nation, even though the Flying Eagles pipped the Egyptians 1-0 in a group phase match in Cairo two years ago.

The only Final matches Nigeria have lost since the competition transformed from home-and-away format to a tournament were against host nations – against Ghana in Accra in 1999 and against Congo in Brazzaville eight years later.

On the reverse, Nigeria defeated hosts Senegal in the Final in 2015. Ghana were champions in 1993, 1999 (as hosts), 2009 (when

they won in Rwanda) and 2021. Cameroon, who are not in Egypt, won their only title when Nigeria hosted the competition in 1995.

After Thursday’s shootout with the Junior Carthage Eagles, the seven-time champions will be up against 1997 hosts and winners Morocco, also at the 30 June Stadium.

Zubairu is excited that his boys are riding on immense psychological wavelengths after a 2-1 defeat of host nation Egypt in a friendly match at the Cairo International Stadium on Tuesday – barely 48 hours after the delegation landed in Cairo.

Tunisia did not originally qualify for the Under-20 AFCONfinals, but sneaked through after original hosts Cote d’Ivoire pulled the rug on the Confederation of African Football with only weeks to the opening match.

All four semi-finalists at the tournament will qualify to fly Africa’s flag at this year’s FIFA U20 World Cup finals in Chile, from 27th September to 19th October.

long-range shot from Raphinha into the back of his own net.

The Nerazzurri looked to have gone back ahead inside the last ten minutes through a first-time effort by Henrikh Mkhitaryan, but it was disallowed for offside by the assistant referee.

Yamal struck the crossbar at the other end, leaving everything to play for in next Tuesday’s second leg at the San

‘Enugu’s First International Marathon Will be Thrilling, Unforgettable’

What appears a landmark event in Nigeria is about to take place this weekend, as Enugu State makes history hosting its first-ever international marathons the Coal City.

The Enugu City Marathon, a World Athletics-certified event, scheduled to hold on May 3, 2025, aims to establish itself as the largest road race in the history of Southeast Nigeria, drawing over 100 elite runners and other participants from around the globe. Top Nigerian road runners are not left out.

Nigeria is undoubtedly becoming a hub for Road Races not only in Africa but in the World, especially due to the huge success of road races organised by Nilayo Sports Management like the Gold labelled Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, Ogun Women Run, Abuja International half marathon and the Abeokuta 10km race. The body also organised the first Kaduna City marathon.

According to the organisers, the Enugu international marathon will be thrilling and unforgettable, as the event aims to showcase the rich culture and resilience of the Coal City, taking runners through a carefully mapped-out course, and in the process highlight the beauty and landscape of Enugu.

Apart from the elite runners, some of whom are already in the country, the marathon is expected to attract amateur runners and fitness enthusiasts, who are eager to test their endurance on an international stage.

Already, the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium and other venues are wearing new looks. With Enugu State positioning itself as a hub for sports and tourism, this marathon event is expected to put the city on the global athletics map while promoting fitness and community spirit ahead the 2026 National Sports Festival billed to take place in the city. Enugu will host the 23rd National Sports Festival next year, the second South-east state to do so after Imo ’98 in Owerri.

Organised by Nilayo Sports Management Company, the

Enugu international marathon is positioned to be a significant addition to the state’s sporting calendar, showcasing a race of global standards.

Enugu State Government says it is fully committed to ensuring the event’s success.

Governor Peter Mbah declared during the week that it would serve as goal of promoting Enugu as a premier tourist and commercial destination in the region.

“We want to use this race to tell our own unique story and showcase Enugu as a tourist and commerce destination in the South East,” Governor Mbah noted. “We are assuring all stakeholders that Enugu is well-prepared to welcome both international and local athletes to see the beauty and vibrant culture of our city.”

The State’s Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Barrister Lloyd Ike Ekweremadu said yesterday that Enugu State has always had a rich heritage of sporting history stressing: “This is what our Governor is committed to resuscitating by staging this first international marathon and also hosting the 23rd National Sports Festival in 2026.

“We are all looking forward to this weekend with high expectations and enthusiasm and I call on every citizen of the state and beyond to come out and support the athletes as they run around our beautiful city. As a state, we have everything to stage a world-class road race and the Government is ready to make history this Saturday,” Ekweremadu said. The Enugu State Government is also enhancing the marathon experience by incorporating a complete entertainment package, featuring a musical performance from one of Nigeria’s top artists, Kcee.

Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports Management, Mrs. Yetunde Olopade, said yesterday that the first Enugu international marathon would be a historic celebration of sport, culture and community in and around the Coal City.

CBN Junior Tennis: Top Seed Gbolahan Olawale Survives Close Shave

Boys 16s top seed and defending champion, Gbolahan Olawale from Ondo State was one point away from losing in the group stage of the CBN Junior Tennis Championship yesterday but rallied back to save three match points to eventually win the match. Playing in the decisive group match against Abdulrasheed Yusuf from Kano, Olawale fell

behind 7-9 in the final set match tie--break but rallied to tie at 9-9 with Yusuf serving a double fault at 9-8. A calmer Olawale kept his own nerves to see out the match 8-10, 10-5, 11-9. In the Girls 16s, Gloria Samuel , Goodnews Aina, Mofi Atilola and Adesewa Olaniyan are on course for semifinal places to be decided this Thursday with the last group stage matches. The tournament is featuring singles matches in three categories - boys and girls 12s, 14s and 16s. The last group matches and the semifinals are scheduled to take pace at the National Stadium while the grand finale will take place at the prestigious Lagos Lawn Tennis Club on Saturday, May 3 beginning at 12 noon.

Siro.

Inter Milan’s Denzel Dumfries (2nd right) scored a brace and provided an assist as Barcelona fought back twice to end UEFA Champions League semifinals first leg game 3-3 in Camp Nou...last

FiRST TRi-AnnUAL mEETinG oF niGERiAn inTER-RELiGioUS CoUnCiL...

L-R: Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, CON; Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume; and Sultan of Sokoto, His eminence Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, during the First Tri-annual Meeting of the Nigerian Inter-religious Council held in Owerri, yesterday

olusegun AD e NIYI

olusegun.adeniyi@thisdaylive.com

Multi ‘Zero-Party’ Democracy

In his book, ‘From Opposition to Governing Party: Nigeria’s APC Merger Story’, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu (now of blessed memory) discussed the delicate negotiations that eventually culminated in the registration of the APC. “Each emerging partner wanted the new name to be as close as possible to its old name. In accepting the new name, each merging partner became satisfied only when it contributed at least one word. In accepting the name, All Progressives Congress (APC), the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) was satisfied that it contributed ‘Congress’. The All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) was happy that it contributed ‘All’. Even though ‘All’ had only three letters, it was the leading word in the new name. The Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) felt satisfied that it contributed ‘Progressives’. Also, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) was satisfied that it contributed ‘All Progressives,’” wrote Onu. “The acronym, APC, became acceptable because all merging partners saw a bit of themselves in it. Most of them contributed two of the letters. None contributed more…”

======================================

The foregoing, excerpted from my 2017 book, ‘Against The Run of Play: How an Incumbent President was Defeated in Nigeria’, tells a compelling story about political parties in Nigeria. If the discussions that succeeded in unseating an incumbent president in 2015 were not about issues but rather the party’s acronym, should anybody be surprised about the current situation in the country? The more unfortunate thing is that almost every day, our politicians reinforce the fact that party platforms mean nothing to them. With that, we have ended up with a multiplicity of political parties that are mere aggregations of strange bedfellows, simply for the purpose of securing power.

On Monday, while defecting from the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) under which platform he won the 2023 general election to the ruling APC, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori anchored his decision on the ‘love’ President Bola Tinubu “has shown to us in Delta State”. Aside from the presidential ‘love’ that required reciprocity ahead of 2027, the governor also alluded to the presence of fellow governors at the ceremony to justify his decision. “This is a movement, this is not a defection; we (governors) have agreed we will move together and when we move together, what is at the national we will be able to grab it.”

Nigerian politicians are very good when it comes to ‘grabbing’ all sort of things! Incidentally, in grabbing the PDP platform which he now leads in the state by virtue of the party’s convention, Oborevwori has pushed aside former Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege who was the APC flagbearer in the last election. Nobody would be surprised if Omo-Agege also defects to the PDP where he began his political journey and ‘grab’ the party’s ticket in 2027. There is a precedent to that. Godwin Obaseki won the September 2016 gubernatorial election in Edo State on the platform of the APC. He defeated Osagie Ize-Iyamu, then the PDP candidate. Four years later, in 2020, after he was edged out of the APC, Obaseki pushed Ize-Iyamu aside to grab the PDP ticket. Within a matter of days, Ize-Iyamu also grabbed the APC

gubernatorial ticket! Meanwhile, with its power of patronage, APC is only copying what the PDP did in the past. Some of us can remember that in 1999, the PDP won the presidency, 241 of the 360 seats in the House of Representatives, 71 of the 109 senatorial seats, and its members were elected governors in 21 of the 36

states. Four years later, with politicians from other parties trooping in for their slices of the federal pie, PDP won the governorship elections in 28 of the 36 states and 76 senatorial seats. Now the tide has turned. From 11 governors two years ago, PDP has been shrinking. After Delta State, Cross River may soon follow with Governor Umo Eno speaking in parables about deboarding from ‘a faulty aircraft’ to enter ‘a different plane’ in the coming days. There are reports of others also plotting the same move. Ordinarily, procedures as to how people should obtain power and how they can be replaced is what distinguishes democracy from other forms of government. Political parties are central to this, with their principal role of aggregating ideas on how to solve the problems of society. But in Nigeria, political parties essentially represent the personal interests of powerful individuals with the primary motivation to ‘grab’ power. Invariably, what should serve as platforms for constructive engagement on how to meet the aspirations of the people have become mere vehicles for trading positions between and among politicians and their cronies/family members.

Even in smaller African countries, political parties are more than mere platforms for winning elections. But in a milieu in which public service has been reduced to ‘eating’, as I wrote last December after Ghana’s presidential election which revealed the strength of their political parties, a Nigerian politician could be a PDP member in the morning, decamp to the LP or

SDP in the afternoon and by evening, be attending the APC meeting as the board of trustees’ chairman. “Rarely in Ghana do you see people moving from one party to another with every general election,” the Independent National Electoral (INEC) Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu said while wading in on this same issue last year. “There are people who have supported political parties for many years. So, whether the party is in power or opposition, they stick to the political party.”

For all the noise about recent defections, this has been the pattern of our politics in recent years. As former Delta State Governor and PDP presidential running mate in the 2023 general election, Ifeanyi Okowa reminded former Senate President Bukola Saraki on Tuesday, no Nigerian politician can cast a stone when it comes to jumping from one party to another. Okowa is right. When it comes to political parties, they have all adopted a nomadic disposition, jumping from one to another based on cold calculations about which would be the easier route to power. That perhaps explains why the primaries to secure the tickets of these parties are no more than bazaars for the highest bidders. But for our democracy to survive and thrive, things must change.

To wean the country of this transactional ethos in politics, we need to have a conversation about the minimal expectation of governance, and the values that should drive public office. And that cannot be done without reforming the political parties.

Osinachi, Homicide and Matters Arising

The three-year trial in the death of popular gospel singer, Osinachi Nwachukwu, was concluded on Monday with the conviction of her husband, Peter Nwachukwu. While sentencing him to death by hanging, Justice Njideka Nwosu-Iheme of the FCT High Court relied on oral testimonies of 17 witnesses during the trial (among whom were two children of the couple) as well as documentary evidence.

In the homicide charge against Nwachukwu, he was accused of forcefully ejecting the late Osinachi from their home, contrary to the Violence Against Persons, VAP (Prohibition) Act, 2015. He was also accused of pushing the late Osinachi out of a moving vehicle, restraining her movement and locking her up in the house while denying her access to her money for medication and household necessities. He reportedly forced her into begging and borrowing to survive. Nwachukwu was also accused of subjecting his deceased wife to emotional, verbal and psychological abuse, even as he prevented her mother and siblings from visiting their home. Nwachukwu was further charged for cruelly beating his children (two of whom testified against him in court), recording their cry and playing it on his phone. While all this was going on, Nwachukwu was said to have threatened the children from reporting acts of violence against their mother to Dr Paul Enenche, the Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre (where he and late wife worshipped) or any other person.

This is a tragedy that might have been averted. From what transpired after Osinachi’s death on 8th April 2022, many were aware of the violence to which she was subjected by her husband. But apparently because of the patriarchal nature of our society, she had to endure the abuse until she paid the supreme price. With many people putting the blame on churches where forgiveness and reconciliation are often recommended in cases of domestic abuse, Enenche publicly exonerated himself. The General Overseer of the Omega Fire Ministries International, Apostle Johnson Suleman, also waded in by prescribing a novel solution to such challenge. “All those women that their husbands are beating, don’t they have brothers? If they don’t have biological brothers, they have Christian brothers,” Apostle Suleman told his congregation at the time. “If you are in this church and you are beating your wife, stop it. If she reports you to me, we will beat you. I will go to the police station and take permission before I gather brothers in this church to beat you.”

Following Nwachukwu’s conviction and sentence, some commentators have expressed concerns about the issue of death penalty in Nigeria. But they miss the critical issue - the growing number of lives that have been lost to domestic violence. It is something we must take more seriously. Four years ago, following the reconciliation between a battered wife and her journalist husband at the instance of then Benue State Governor, Sam Ortom, I made my position clear in a column titled, ‘ortom and the Wife Beater’. The woman had posted

her battered and bruised face on social media (X and WhatsApp) before Ortom and members of the Benue State Executive Council intervened to ‘reconcile’ the couple after which a public statement was released. While I had no problem with the reconciliation, I nonetheless raised several pertinent issues.

The fear of being ostracized and the general lack of sympathy for divorced women have contributed immensely to the growth of domestic violence in Nigerian homes, I wrote in the column which underscored many of the things our mothers endured. Unfortunately, the prevalent culture of stigmatization and cajoling the wife to return to the batterer, without addressing the deep-seated issues that continue to disrupt family life so violently, has only resulted in tragedies like that of the late Osinachi.

We cannot continue to perpetuate the notion that women should assume a preponderance of responsibility for making their marriage work. This absolves husbands of their concomitant duty of love, support and care. In the Osinachi case, the tragedy is compounded by the traumatic experience of the children who saw their mother being violently abused by their father and the role they have now played in bringing him to justice. For no fault of theirs, the lives of those children have been turned upside down. If care is not taken, they could end up being further victimised by a society where the line between right and wrong has been completely blurred. I hope they have the needed support at this most difficult period in their lives.

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State