31 Years After Their Murder, Tinubu Honours Ogoni 4 with National Awards
Receives report on Ogoni dialogue, pushes for resumption of oil production Promises communities federal support
Deji Elumoye in Abuja In a symbolic move, President
Bola Tinubu, yesterday, con- ferred posthumous national honours of Commander of
the Order of the Niger (CON) on the four Ogoni heroes murdered in May 1994 during the Sani Abacha junta in their struggle for environmental justice.
www.thisdaylive.com
Emmanuel addeh in Abuja
The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) yesterday faulted a report titled, ‘N8.41tn oil theft drains economy, fuels investors’ doubts’ published on the front page of a national newspaper on Wednesday. The report in question, it said, was based on a misinterpretation of crude loss statistics between 2021 and July 2025 which had been released by the NUPRC ‘in the spirit of transparency’ and in line with the Petroleum Industry Osun govt lawyer: Despite Court Judgment, Pending Suit, Finance Minister Plans to Pay Osun Fund to Court-sacked Chairmen... Page 8
Act (PIA) 2021. NUPRC had revealed on September 11, 2025 that
Continued on page 9
At 80th UNGA, Tinubu Renews Demand for Nigeria’s Permanent Seat on UN Security Council
Seeks sovereign debt relief, access to trade, financing Wants nations hosting minerals to benefit more Calls for closure of widening digital divide Reiterates two-state solution as way out of Israel-Palestine crisis
Emmanuel addeh in Abuja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday reiterated his call for a permanent seat for Nigeria on the United Nations (UN) Security Council, declaring
Continued on page 9 that the global organisation will recover its relevance only when it reflects the world as it is, not as it was. In a national statement read on his behalf by the Vice
NigEria TakES a STaND ON ThE glObal STagE...
Statement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu , being delivered by his representative, Vice President Kashim Shettima, during the General Debate of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York with the Theme: Better Together: 80 Years And More For Peace, Development, And Human Rights … yesterday
TRUST HOLDING COMPANY PLC
AKWA IBOM STATE ELECTRICITY SUMMIT...
L-R: Group Managing Director, Afrinvest (West Africa) Limited, Ike Chioke; Senior Advisor, Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority, Obinna Ihedioha; Deputy Governor, Akwa Ibom State, Her Excellency, Senator (Dr) Akon Eyakenyi; Chief Technical Adviser to the Minister of Power, Adedayo Olowoniyi; Group Managing Director/CEO, West Power and Gas Limited, Wola Joseph–Condotti; Managing Director, Savannah, Nigeria, Pade Durotoye; and Secretary to the State Government, Akwa Ibom State, Prince Enobong Uwah during the Akwa Ibom State Electricity Summit held at Four Points by Sheraton Hotel, Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State… recently
Keyamo Solicits Support for Nigeria’s
Re-election into ICAO Council
Kasim Sumaina in Abuja Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo, has solicited support for all African States endorsed by the African Union, particularly Nigeria’s re-election into part 2 of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Council.
The minister made the call at the 42nd Assembly of ICAO, in Montreal, Canada.
Presenting the Country’s Statement, Keyamo expressed Nigeria’s commitment to the principles and objectives of ICAO, stating that the West African country continues to invest in infrastructure modernisation, regulatory reforms, and capacity building to ensure Nigeria’s aviation sector meets global standards and contributes meaningfully to regional and international connectivity.
While chronicling Nigeria’s
TETfund
strides in the aviation industry, Keyamo said Nigeria was host to the Regional Safety Oversight Organisation, the Banjul Accord Group Aviation Safety Oversight Organisation (BAGASOO), and that Nigeria has remained its major con- tributor while also supporting the activities of the Regional
Accident Investigation Agency (BAGAIA)
The Minister, in a statement yesterday, issued in Abuja, by the Head, Press and Public Affairs of the Ministry, said Nigeria continues to fulfill its environmental obligation by submitting its state action plan on carbon emission reduction
and voluntarily participating in the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA).
He congratulated the President, ICAO Council, Mr. Salvatore Sciacchiatano, the Secretary General of ICAO, Mr. Juan Carlos Salazar and the entire ICAO Secretariat and
the government of Canada for a well-organised 42nd Session of the ICAO Assembly and the kind reception given to Nigeria’s delegation.
He also urged the delegates to work together to ensure the goals of ICAO are achieved despite the differences in geographic location.
Keyamo, however, invited the Council to the Nigerian International Airshow taking place in Abuja, Nigeria, between 2nd and 4th of December, 2025, noting: “The skies may divide our geographies, but through ICAO, they unite our goals and aspirations.”
FG Sets Up Inter-agency Team to Tackle Lead Poisoning in Nigeria
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
The federal government, through the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has mobilised key stakehold- ers to address the growing threat of lead poisoning in the country.
It inaugurated the National Interagency Working Group on Lead Poisoning Elimination in Nigeria on CoordinatingTuesday.Minister of Health and Social Welfare,
Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, who represented by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom, at the open- ing of a two-day workshop in Abuja on the finalization and validation of the Five-Year National Strategic Plan on Lead Poisoning Elimination described the inauguration as a historic milestone in safeguarding public health.
The minister underscored the urgency of the government’s response.
Inaugurates Osun State University Senate Building, Other Iconic Projects Worth over N3bn
Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo Chairman, Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETfund) Board of Trustees, Rt. Hon. Aminu Masari, yesterday, commissioned some TETFund-sponsored projects executed by Osun State University, Osogbo, as part of activities marking the university’s 15th Convocation/ Graduation ceremonies.
Masari reiterated the agency’s commitment to support all public institutions towards achieving world class status as they performed
their role in educating and equipping knowledge seekers of all ages.
He urged the management of the university to maintain focus on ensuring its emergence as a strong global player, and university of choice for both Nigerians and foreigners.
Masari charged the authorities of the university to ensure the facilities were properly maintained and protected. According to him, “We are resolved as an agency of the federal government to keep pace with current
advancements and are making significant efforts to ensure that our beneficiary institutions are up to date, through support to acquire relevant tools of work for knowledge creation, learning, research and supporting entrepreneurship and skills development.
“As a fund, we will never relent at ensuring that we support our public institutions towards achieving world class status as they perform their role in educating and equipping knowledge seekers of all ages.
“Lead poisoning is not just an environmental concern; it is a public health crisis that silently erodes the well-being of our children, causing irrevers- ible damage to their developing brains and nervous systems,” Pate said. “For adults, it contributes to hypertension, kidney dysfunction, and reproductive challenges.”
Nigeria has witnessed devastating outbreaks of lead poisoning, notably in Zamfara State in 2010, where over 400 children died and several others disabled and in Niger State in 2015. More recently, in 2024, fresh cases were reported in Zamfara and Sokoto States.
In a bid to combat the crisis, Pate said the Ministry has provided laboratory equipment
such as lead care machines and spectrophotometers, sup- ported treatment with chelation therapy in collaboration with Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), enhanced active surveillance, and conducted soil remediation and community education.
He explained that the newly inaugurated working group will serve as a national platform to harmonize strate- gies, strengthen surveillance, and advance evidence-based interventions.
According to the minister, the mandate of group includes assessing lead exposure, review- ing policies, building health worker capacity, and recom- mending sustainable financing for long-term solutions.
He stressed that eliminating lead poisoning requires a multisectoral approach, involving the Federal Ministries of Environment, Solid Minerals Development, Steel Develop- ment, Agriculture, Water Resources, critical regulatory agencies such as NESREA, NAFDAC, SON, as well as civil society, academia, and development partners including UNICEF, WHO, Resolve to Save Lives, and MSF.
“Our collective priority is prevention, ensuring that our environment, crops, homes, workplaces, and water sources are free from lead contamination,” Prof. Pate declared. “The lives and future of millions of Nigerian children depend on our collective efforts.”
Group Sensitises Rivers Oil Host Communities to PIA
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
Oil and gas host communities in Rivers State have received training on accessing the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) for development of their areas. The training was part of a two-day sensitisation programme held on Monday and Tuesday, in Port Harcourt, by Center for
Advanced Law Research of the Rivers State University and F1 Team Associates.
Highlighting the essence of the program, Jude Ndubuisi, a legal practitioner, public and oil and gas expert, said the target was to educate host communities on the relevant provisions of the PIA and how they can access them to protect their rights and promote their cause
for sustainable development and harmonious co-existence between them and settlors. Ndubuisi, explained that: “The whole idea is to explain to the people at the local government council level the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act which actually is a revolutionary legislation that has brought a lot of changes in the oil and gas eco-system.
PRESENTATION OF REPORT ON OGONI CONSULTATIONS...
L-R: National Security Adviser to the President (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State; and the
Dialogue Committee, Professor Don Baridam, during the presentation of report on Ogoni Consultations at the Presidential
Kano Manufacturers Laud Dangote Refinery for Revitalising Struggling Companies in Nigeria
The Kano-Jigawa branch of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has hailed the Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals for its role in revitalising struggling companies in Nigeria.
The association said the refinery’s intervention through the reduction of diesel prices and the steady availability of petroleum products has provided significant relief to manufacturers grappling with high energy costs.
Speaking on the sidelines
Sunday Ehigiator
Instagram has grown to three billion Monthly Active Users, the CEO of Meta, Mark Zuckerberg, revealed yesterday, marking another milestone for one of the most popular social media apps in the world.
Meta last disclosed Instagram’s user figures in 2022 when Zuckerberg said the app had hit more than two billion monthly active users.
“This is a big moment for the global community, just ahead of Instagram’s 15th birthday. Instagram has always been about creativity, and continues to stand for that. From DMing your friends memes,
to watching Reels that only you get, keeping up with all your favorite creators, or posting your creative moments, Instagram is the place to connect with friends,” Meta stated in a note yesterday.
Meta, previously known as Facebook, bought Instagram for $1 billion in 2012, a move that had raised questions about the company’s strategy as the social media app had begun with just photo-sharing without significant revenue, according to Reuters.
Since then the app has grown astronomically, and some firms have estimated it will make up more than half of Meta’s U.S. ad revenue this year.
The theme of this year’s exhibition was “Made in Nigeria: Revitalising Local Industries for Economic Growth.”
A statement by Dangote
of the ongoing MAN Annual Products Exhibition, taking place at Sani Abacha stadium in Kano, the branch Chairman of MAN Kano and Jigawa, Muhammad Bello Isyaku Umar, said that these measures were already helping “dying companies come back to life” by reducing production expenses, stabilising operations, and sustaining jobs.
Instagram Hits Three Billion Monthly Active Users
A major factor contributing to Instagram’s success is the Reels feature, which was launched in 2020 and allows users to create short-form content - a market that faces fierce competition from rivals such as TikTok and Google-owned YouTube shorts.
TikTok, owned by Chinese technology behemoth ByteDance, has more than 1 billion users globally who visit monthly, a company spokesperson said earlier this month.
Meta, revealed that few things Instagram is exploring in the next few months aimed at connecting people over creativity include, “A new way for you to have more control
Exhibitors Laud FNITCC Atlanta as GameChanger for Non-Oil Exports Growth
Nume Ekeghe
The third edition of the Fidelity Nigeria International Trade & Creative Connect (FNITCC) in Atlanta, Georgia, United States, has been hailed as a transformative platform for advancing Nigeria’s non-oil exports and connecting local enterprises with global markets. Organised by Fidelity Bank Plc in partnership with AFRICON
from September 18 to 20, 2025, the conference brought together export-ready Nigerian businesses across fashion, arts, manufacturing, and technology, creating an international showcase of commerce and culture.
Mayor of Atlanta, Mr. Andre Dickens, commended Fidelity Bank for the initiative, stressing the deep-rooted ties between Africa and Atlanta.
“This conference presents a
unique opportunity for thought leaders from Atlanta and Africa to collaborate. Our shared legacies, from civil rights icons like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela to our mutual strengths in logistics, finance, technology, and the creative industries form a strong foundation for trade and investment. We are not just networking; we are building lasting networks,” he said.
over your Reels algorithm, by letting us know what topics you want to see more and less of.
“A simplified navigation so you can easily swipe from Home feed > Reels > Messages.
• Testing a reels-first mobile experience in India and South Korea, where people can dive right into entertaining content, and go to a Following tab to catch up with content from the people they follow. This looks like our new iPad experience. We’ll learn from this country test before expanding elsewhere.”
Group said the association explained that access to affordable diesel was critical to the survival of many small and medium-scale industries in Nigeria, particularly those outside the national grid or in areas plagued by inconsistent power supply.
“By improving supply and easing cost pressures, the Dangote Refinery is not only supporting the survival of existing firms but also laying the foundation for industrial growth and competitiveness in the region,” Umar said.
MAN reiterated its commitment to partnering with the refinery and other stakeholders to strengthen the manufacturing sector, describing the Dangote Refinery as a game-changer in Nigeria’s quest for industrial sustainability and self-reliance.
The association’s chairman said Dangote Refinery continues to inspire confidence in Nigeria’s manufacturing sector.
Umar said the exhibition, where Dangote Industries
Limited was one of its major sponsors, brought together top manufacturers, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and consumers in a showcase of innovation, quality, and resilience in the nation’s economy.
He explained that the refinery would reduce the country’s reliance on imported petroleum products while supporting local manufacturing.
The MAN chairman disclosed that the union was already exploring areas of partnership with the Dangote Refinery to enhance energy supply and strengthen industrial growth nationwide.
He commended the Dangote Group for its partnership and contribution to the growth of the association and the country’s economy.
The chairman noted that the Dangote Group has been a consistent partner with the association for over five years, describing the company as an indispensable stakeholder in the industrial sector.
Nigeria’s Aggregate GDP Moves Towards Diversified, Sustainable Economy, Says Group
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
The Hope Alive Initiative has hailed the economic reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing them as the driving force behind Nigeria’s recent strong economic performance.
The group said Nigeria’s aggregate Gross Domestic Product, GDP now N100.73 trillion (up from N84.48 trillion the previous year), reflects a remarkable shift towards a more diversified and sustainable economy.
In a statement signed by its Director of Press, Ernest Omoarelojie, the group noted that data from the National Bureau of Statistics, NBS showing a year-on-year GDP growth of 4.23 per cent in the second quarter of 2025 confirms that the administration’s reforms are yielding results.
According to the group, before President Tinubu assumed office in May 2023, the economy was in dire straits, weakened by unsustainable fuel subsidies,
a distorted foreign exchange regime, dwindling external reserves, and low investor confidence.
“The economy was on the brink, with poverty levels deepening and the fiscal space for growth almost completely eroded,” the group said. It added that bold policy measures, including the removal of petrol subsidy, unification of the foreign exchange market, fiscal consolidation, and social interventions have now begun to turn the tide.
Chairman, Ogoni
Villa, Abuja, yesterday
PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI
Peter Uzoho
APC EKITI GOVERNORSHIP SCREENING EXERCISE...
L-R: Member of House of Representatives, Adeniyi Ojuawo; Senator Cyril Fasuyi, Ekiti North; Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji; Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Ekiti South; Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Adeoye Aribasoye, and other associates after the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship screening exercise in Abuja...recently
Minister Plans to Pay Osun Fund to Court-sacked Chairmen
Osun State Government has warned Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, against asking the president to approve the release of withheld local government funds to accounts opened by former All Progressives Congress (APC) council chairmen and councillors, whom the courts had already removed from office.
In a strongly-worded letter, signed by Musibau Adetunbi, SAN, counsel to the state, and addressed to the finance minister, the state government expressed concern over reports that Edun, despite ongoing legal challenges at the Supreme Court, had written to President Bola Tinubu seeking approval to pay the disputed funds into “illegal accounts” operated by the sacked officials.
The letter was titled, “Again: Notification of the Pendency of Suit No: SC/CV/773/2025: Between Attorney General of Osun State v. Attorney General
of the Federation in Respect of the Withheld Osun State Local Government Fund.”
It recalled that the Attorney General of Osun State had filed a case at the Supreme Court challenging the seizure of the funds and their attempted disbursement to illegal accounts opened by APC politicians.
“It is inconceivable that you would ask His Excellency, the President and Commanderin-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, to authorise the release of funds, which are under legal dispute, to these court-sacked chairmen and councillors,” the letter read.
It added, “Instead of seeking an approval to do what is wrong, it is our counsel that you use your office to properly and faithfully apprise Mr. President of the true position of the law.
“Sir, if it is true that you have indeed written to Mr. President to approve payment of the Local Government
funds to these court-sacked APC Chairmen and Councillors prior to the determination of the dispute between the parties across the divide by the apex court of the land, then such an action is not only a mockery of the admin- istration of justice but also a mockery of all the authorities of the nation, including that of Mr. President himself.
“It will be a grievous assault on the rule of law. In the absence of the rule of law, sir, what takes over is what no one desires. This is why, in saner climes, the rule of law is jealously protected.”
The letter said judge- ments of both the Federal High Court and Court of Appeal had unequivocally removed the APC chairmen
and councillors from office, and the rulings remained unchallenged.
The state insisted that the withheld funds belonged to the people of the 30 local government councils in Osun State, stressing that they are meant for “farmers, market women, teachers, health workers, pensioners, and children”, not for “politicians who have
been lawfully sacked by the courts”.
The state government urged the finance minister to see that local governments in Osun State received the same treatment as their counterparts in the other 35 states, who had continued to receive their monthly allocations through their State-Local Government Joint Accounts.
Ibom Air Crew Resuscitates Passenger, Administers Life-saving Emergency CPR
Kasim Sumaina in Abuja
A female passenger on-board Ibom Air Flight 561, from Abuja to Lagos, on September 21, who experienced a medical emergency shortly after take- off, was resuscitated by the cabin crew, who administered necessary first-aid procedures, the airline’s management said, in a statement on Wednesday.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Wednesday disclosed that poor maintenance and some sleepers at Asham station that had been damaged but merely patched 13 months ago after the previous derailment at same point caused the recent train crash incident.
The NSIB released preliminary report on the derailment involving train number AK 1, operated by the Nigerian
Railway Corporation (NRC), with locomotive registration CDD5c2 2701, shows the occurrence was the second derailment at Asham station within 13 months.
The report further added the Asham station automatic crossing point switch mechanism was also found unserviceable and the clip broken.
According to the NSIB, Kaduna-bound train, which derailed at Km49, Kubwa–Asham section, Kagarko Local Government Area,
Kaduna State, on 26 August 2025, had 618 persons on board, including NRC crew members, security personnel, and service staff.
“Twenty-one passengers sustained varying degrees of injuries, while no fatalities were recorded.”
NSIB noted the report represents early findings which are subject to further analysis, added that the final report will present detailed conclusions and additional recommendations to enhance rail safety in Nigeria.
The airline stated, “Our cabin crew, fully trained in handling in-flight medical emergencies, responded swiftly and professionally by administering oxygen, CPR, and other first-aid protocols.
“Prior to departure, the Senior Cabin Crew Member (SCCM) was notified of a Passenger with Reduced Mobility (PRM), travelling with her husband and family.
“Shortly after take-off, and as the crew commenced in-flight service, a medical emergency was reported in
the cabin. The SCCM and the team immediately assessed the situation and made a public announcement requesting medical personnel on-board, but none was available.”
The statement said, “The crew promptly applied the DRABCDE protocol — Danger, Response, Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, Expo- sure — in line with first-aid best practice. The passenger, who had no detectable pulse or breathing, was moved to the galley area where CPR and oxygen administration were carried out.
“In accordance with standard safety procedures, the captain made the decision to return to Abuja to ensure the passenger received immediate medical attention. During the flight back, the crew took turns performing chest compressions and providing updates to the captain until landing.
“Upon arrival, the passenger, who had been successfully resuscitated by the Ibom Air crew, was handed over to the airport’s emergency medical response team for further care.
INEC Lifts Ban on Campaigns for FCT Poll
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has lifted ban on campaigns for the 2026 Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections.
The commission had scheduled the FCT Area Council election to be held on Saturday 21st February 2026.
However, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman,
Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, in a statement, yesterday, said the commission’s decision was in line with the provision of Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 and item 8 of the Timetable and Schedule of Activities.
“Political parties participating in the 2026 Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council election are now at liberty to start their electioneering campaigns in public from
Wednesday 24th September 2025 and end at midnight on Thursday 19th February 2026. “As enshrined in Sections 92 and 93 of the Electoral Act 2022, the Commission wishes to remind Political Parties, candidates and their supporters that it is unlawful to use abusive language, carry out physical attacks on opponents during rallies, processions and meetings or destroy their campaign materials,” he said.
Kasim Sumaina in Abuja
CBN Warns Against Naira Hoarding, Sundry Abuses
Says there’re adequate banknotes to meet demand nationwide
James Emejo in Abuja
Deputy Governor, Operations, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Bala Bello, yesterday, warned of the consequences of careless handling of Naira notes, including folding, tearing, spraying at social events, or writing on them.
Bello gave the warning in Abuja during the flag-off of a nationwide sensitisation campaign on proper Naira notes handling, with the theme, “Naira Our Pride: Handle with Care.”
He said such abuses undermined the dignity of the national currency and raised the cost of replacement.
AT
President, Kashim Shettima, during the ongoing general debate of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the President also called for sovereign debt relief as well as access to trade and financing.
The event taking place in New York, United States, tagged UNGA 80, is themed: “Better Together: 80 Years and More for Peace, Development and Human Rights”.
Nigeria’s demand for a permanent seat at the UN security council has been a consistent feature of its foreign policy for decades, with successive administrations arguing that the current
daily crude oil losses had dropped to 9,600 barrels per day, the lowest since 2009, a statement by the commission‘s spokesperson, Eniola Akinkuotu, said.
The NUPRC said it was vindicated again when the latest figures released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed that Nigeria’s economy grew by 4.23 per cent largely on the back of an increased oil output and two other sectors, an acknowledgement of the steady progress made by the industry to combat the menace of crude oil theft.
Against the foregoing, the report by the national newspaper, it said, was not only specious but lacked proper context.
“Firstly, crude oil losses have been on the downward trend due to collaborative efforts between the NUPRC, the Office of the National Security Adviser, the military, Operators and other relevant stakeholders.
“This collaboration through both kinetic and non-kinetic means, dropped oil theft from a staggering 102,900 in 2021 – when the Commission was established – to the current 9,600bopd representing over
Represented by CBN Director, Currency Operations and Branch Management Department (COBMD), Mr. Sikiru Adetona, the deputy governor, particularly cautioned against cash hoarding ahead of the festive season, stressing that such practices disrupt circulation and impose undue pressure on the financial system.
He urged Nigerians to explore alternative payment channels to reduce reliance on cash.
Bello said, “The Naira is more than a means of payment. It represents our national pride, our sovereignty, and our shared destiny as a people.
“Unfortunately, careless prac-
structure of the council does not reflect present global realities, still largely shaped by the outcome of World War II.
For years, Nigeria has argued that as Africa’s most populous nation and one of its largest economies, it has the demographic weight, peacekeeping record, and regional influence to justify a permanent position.
The current permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, often referred to as the P5, are: China, France, Russia, United Kingdom and the United States. These five hold veto power, which allows any one of them to
90 per cent reduction in losses.
“Also, in the misleading report, an exchange rate of N1,500/$1 is used from 2021 to 2025 to increase the figures and sensationalise actual losses when in actual fact, Nigeria’s exchange rate was less than N430 on the official market and barely N600/$1 on average between 2021 (when most of the crude theft occurred) and in mid-2023.
“The N8.41 trillion is therefore inaccurate.
Attempting to situate it within the current 2025 federal budget is flawed,” the commission stated.
Furthermore, the methodology adopted by the Newspaper, according to the NUPRC, is significantly flawed because it lacks in-depth understanding of operations, crude oil price trends and exchange rate mechanisms.
“Nigeria has continued to meet its OPEC quota due to the commission’s initiatives and working collaboratively with industry stakeholders to sustain and grow pro- ductions. Such initiatives include: the project 1 million barrels, implementation of the metering audit, restoration of shut-in strings
tices undermine the dignity of our national symbol and increase the costs of maintaining it. This campaign is not just a central bank initiative; it is a call to collective action.”
The apex bank said it had made sufficient arrangements to ensure adequate supply of banknotes to meet demand across the country.
Adetona, in his speech delivered by CBN Deputy Director, Kazeem Olatinwo, said while Naira availability was guaranteed, particularly as the yuletide approached, “what is needed is proper handling to keep our notes clean and fit for use.”
block substantive resolutions regardless of majority support. No African is represented on the council.
Tinubu averred that Nigeria remains firmly convinced of the merits of multilateralism, stressing that to sustain that conviction, the UN must show that existing structures are not set in stone, and make real change.
“I want to make four points today to outline how we can do this: One: Nigeria must have a permanent seat at the UN Security Council. This should take place as part of a wider process of institutional reform.
“Two: We need urgent ac-
and increased rig counts, facility uptime, creation of alternative crude evacuation mechanism etc.
“Furthermore, Nigeria now has the technical capacity to produce above 2 million barrels daily. The commission is galvanising industry stakeholders – operators, service providers (local and international), rig owners, off-takers, and financiers - in order to fully
Tinubu, who disclosed the honours at State House, Abuja, while receiving the report of the Presidential Committee on the Ogoni Consultations, chaired by former Vice Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, Professor Don Baridam, prayed that the memories of the four Ogoni sons “continue to inspire unity and purpose among Nigerians”.
Oil exploration in Ogoniland was suspended in 1993 following widespread protests against environmental degradation, leading to the tragic execution of writer-activist Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight others in 1995 by the Abacha military regime.However, against the backdrop of yesterday’s development, Tinubu directed
He stressed that the campaign was not just about preserving the local currency but also building confidence in the localHecurrency. added that the initiative was a collective responsibility, which stakeholders, including schools, markets, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), civil society groups, and the media must partner with the CBN to educate Nigerians.
The CBN director said, “As we approach the yuletide, the Bank has made sufficient arrangements to ensure adequate supply of banknotes to meet demand nationwide. What is needed is proper handling to
tion to promote sovereign debt relief and access to trade and financing. Three: Countries that host minerals must benefit from those minerals. Four: The digital divide must close,” the President argued.
On the first point, Tinubu pointed out that the United Nations will recover its relevance only when it reflects the world as it is, not as it was, calling for a restructuring of the global organisation.
“Nigeria’s journey tells this story with clarity: when the UN was founded, we were a colony of 20 million people, absent from the tables where decisions about our fate were taken; today, we are a
unlock the potential, riding on the improved operating environment and social inclusion in operating areas,” the commission said.
According to the NUPRC, the story also failed the integrity test as no attempt was made by the reporter of the newspaper to get a clarification from the commission in the spirit of fairness and balanced reporting.
the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to start engagement with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Ogoni communities, and other stakeholders. He said this would be towards finalising modalities for the resumption of oil production in Ogoniland after more than three decades of shutdown.
The president hailed the committee for its “dedication and wisdom” in guiding a delicate process, and urged the Ogoni people to embrace reconciliation and dialogue as the only path to justice and development.
Tinubu stated, “I commend the dialogue committee for the wisdom with which they guided this process. More importantly, let’s thank the
keep our notes clean and fit for use.
“This campaign is much more than the proper handling of banknotes. It is about respect for our national symbol, confidence in our financial system, and a collective responsibility we all share.”
In her remarks, CBN acting Director, Corporate Communications Department, Mrs. Hakama Ali, said respecting the naira was a civic duty that must be honoured.
Ali said, “The naira is our critical symbol of national identity. Do not spray, hawk or mutilate it. From today, all Nigerians are implored to be
sovereign nation of over 236 million, projected to be the third most populous country in the world, with one of the youngest and most dynamic populations on earth.
“A stabilising force in regional security and a consistent partner in global peacekeeping, our case for permanent seat at the Security Council is a demand for fairness, for representation, and for reform that restores credibility to the very institution upon which the hope of multilateralism rests.
“This is why Nigeria stands firmly behind the UN80 Initiative of the Secretary-General, and the resolution adopted by this Assembly on 18 July 2025, a bold step to reform the wider United Nations system for greater relevance, efficiency, and effectiveness in the face of unprecedented financial strain. We support the drive to ration- alise structures and end the duplication of responsibilities and programmes, so that this institution may speak with one voice and act with greater coherence,” he argued.
Stressing that no nation can achieve a peaceful world in isolation, he described it as the heavy burden of sover-
Ogoni people for embracing dialogue and reconciliation as the surest path to justice and development.”
Recognising the decades of struggle, the president stressed , “We are not as a government taking lightly the years of pain endured in Ogoniland.
“The federal government truly acknowledges the long suffering of the Ogoni people, and today we declare with conviction that hope is here and is back with us.”
Tinubu mandated the NSA to convene immediate engagements between the Ogoni people, NNPCL, and other stakeholders to finalise modalities for the restarting of oil production.
According to him, “We have to start now. Dead assets are not valuable to the community,
advocates and ambassadors of clean
The roadshow will extend to schools, markets, motor parks, and communities across the country to ensure the message reached every citizen.
eignty, a covenant of shared responsibility, a recognition that global survival is bound to the survival of others.
To live up to this charge, Tinubu emphasised that the world must walk hand in hand with neighbours and partners, follow the trails of weapons, of money, and of people, as these forces, too often driven by faceless nonstate actors, ignite the fires of conflict across our region.
He stated that Nigeria’s soldiers and civilians carry a proud legacy, participating in 51 out of 60 United Nations peacekeeping operations since its independence in 1960 and standing with partners in Africa to resolve conflicts, especially through its commitment through the Multinational Joint Task Force (MJTF).
At home, Tinubu said that Nigeria is confronting the scourge of insurgency with resolve, but noted that while military tactics may win battles measured in months and years, but in wars that span generations, it is values and ideas that deliver the ultimate victory.
the country and the people. The further we leave it and the longer we procrastinate, the greater the losses.”
The president also directed Minister of Environment to work with the NSA to integrate environmental remediation and community programmes into a broader dialogue and implementation process.“Environmental remediation will renew oil production, and we must ensure efficient functionality as an instrument of action,” he emphasised.
Tinubu charged Ogoni leaders and communities to put aside divisions and move forward in unity. He said, “I urge Ogoni people across communities and
Naira notes.”
Deputy Governor, Operations, Mr. Bala Bello
I wish to sincerely thank His Excellency, Barr. Nyesom Wike, Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, for his outstanding leadership and tireless efforts in ensuring the restoration of peace in Rivers State and efforts towards bringing an end to the period of emergency rule.
Your courage, wisdom, and commitment to stability have brought hope and relief to our people, reaffirming the power of dialogue, inclusiveness, and purposeful leadership in resolving conflict. History will remember this as a decisive moment when peace triumphed over division, and unity was placed above political interests.
I also want to thank Mr. President and Commander in Chief of the Army Forces, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR for his timely intervention that saved an almost catastrophic scenario and through his leadership that has finally brought the peace that Rivers State requires for smooth and rapid development, under a democratic rule, a panacea for progress.
ODALO IS 80
Dcn. Dr. Vincent Agenmonmen MFR (The Odalo of Uromi)
The President, Management and Members of THE FREEDOM GROUP warmly celebrate our legendary Chairman and Founder
Congratulations
We salute your trailblazing leadership and pioneering achievements in business and philanthropy - touching and transforming lives for over six decades
The Explainer
NOA CHAMPIONS MEASLES-RUBELLA VACCINE DRIVE AS FG INTRODUCES FREE VACCINATION ACROSS NIGERIA
In a bid to safeguard the health of Nigerian children, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has thrown its weight behind the nationwide introduction of the MeaslesRubella (MR) vaccine, urging parents and guardians to take advantage of the initiative to protect their children from life-threatening diseases.
In a public message, Mallam Lanre IssaOnilu, Director General of the National Orientation Agency, emphasized that the newly introduced Measles-Rubella vaccine is a potent instrument in protecting children against two of the most debilitating and lifethreatening childhood illnesses.
Issa-Onilu underscored the significance of immunisation, explaining that vaccinating children is a fundamental expression of parental love and responsibility, which not only safeguards their lives but also contributes to shaping a healthier and more secure future for Nigeria.
NOA
The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) recently organised a simulation exercise to assess the readiness of the country to respond to potential national emergencies and security threats.
The National Orientation Agency (NOA), as one of the key stakeholders in the exercise, was present at the event, not just to report it but to observe, monitor and support the coordination efforts. The Director General of the Agency, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, was ably represented at the event by the Deputy Director, Department of Community Safety and Awareness, Mr Oriasotie Saturday.
Speaking during the exercise, the Director of Rapid Response II, Rear Admiral Emmanuel Nmoyem, stated that the simulation exercise was designed to test the response capacity of Ministries, Departments,
The DG further disclosed that measles and rubella are prominent among the vaccine-preventable causes of child mortality and disability in Nigeria, noting that the integration of the MR vaccine into the country’s immunisation schedule marks a significant milestone in mitigating these risks and enhancing child health outcomes.
Onilu also revealed that the agency is collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Health and development partners to mobilise parents, community leaders, and influencers, to ensure that every eligible child receives the MeaslesRubella vaccine. “We will take the message to markets, schools, places of worship, and rural communities where myths and misinformation often discourage uptake,” Onilu stated.
DG Onilu stressed that the MeaslesRubella vaccine is not only free but also
and Agencies (MDAs) and to enhance their preparedness for effective crisis management.
He also stated that all inputs from stakeholders at the exercise would be carefully collated to identify existing gaps and strengthen inter-agency coordination for more effective and timely crisis response.
safe and effective, urging parents to seize this opportunity to protect their children from these life-threatening diseases. “Starting October 4th, 2025, every child between 9 months to 14 years should receive the vaccine when health workers visit your area,” he reminded.
The DG reiterated that the NOA’s support for the MR vaccine drive is part of a broader effort to promote public health in Nigeria.
Through strategic partnerships with health experts and development partners, DG Onilu said the NOA is committed to reaching every corner of the country, ensuring that no eligible child is left behind. “Let us give our children the gift of life and a healthy future,” he said.
He concluded by describing the introduction of the MR vaccine as a major milestone in Nigeria’s public health calendar, adding that it is a significant step forward in the country’s efforts to protect children and promote national health.
In her address, the Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs. Zubaida Umar, expressed confidence in the success of the exercise, noting that the effective crowd control and coordination demonstrated during the simulation exercise reflect the nation’s growing capacity to manage emergency situations.
Also speaking, the Coordinator of the
exercise, Mr. Ken Obi, explained that the simulation was designed around six distinct scenarios, each carefully crafted to address specific strategic objectives and test the readiness of relevant agencies.
He outlined the stages of the exercise to include a simulated terrorist attack, explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) response, armed confrontation, rescue operations, and mass casualty response.
The Chairman of the Traditional Council of Chiefs in Kokona LGA, Nasarawa State, HRH Lawrence Ayeh, who was at the event, urged the public to promptly provide vital information to response and security agencies during times of crisis.
The coordinated drill exercise brought together key security, emergency, and response agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, NSCDC, Immigration, Fire Service, Road Safety, FEMA, NEMA, as well as representatives from foreign embassies and other stakeholders.
NOA Takes Patriotism Campaign to Ilorin Residents
In a bid to deepen national consciousness and promote civic responsibility, the Kwara State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has taken its patriotism campaign to the residents of Ilorin, engaging residents on core national values and the importance of active citizenship.
The awareness walk, which kicked off from the NOA State Headquarters at Fate Road, moved through Maraba, Muritala Muhammed Way, Sabo-Oke, Offa Road, and GRA before returning to the Secretariat, attracting the attention of motorists, traders, and passers-by.
Addressing the crowd at Maraba Motor Park, the NOA North Central Zonal Director, Princess Priscilla Gondoaluor, said the campaign was aimed at strengthening citizens’ trust in governance while encouraging active participation in securing lives and property.
“Security is a collective responsibility. The government has recruited more personnel, but citizens must also play their part by providing useful information,” she stated.
She lauded federal government’s interventions in education and infrastructure, urging Nigerians to recognise ongoing developments. According to her, “Roads are being constructed, educational loans are now available, and opportunities are open for young people. Citizens should change the mindset that government is not working for them.”
NOA
As part of efforts to deepen civic awareness on key national concerns, the Edo State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has taken its ongoing national sensitisation campaign to major streets in Benin City.
The roadshow, led by the State Director, Barrister Osahon Woghiren, alongside the Deputy Director and Head of Special Duties and Local Government Operations, Mr Christopher Obaiweki, engaged traders, motorists, and pedestrians in a one-on-one outreach across Ring Road, Forestry Road, Mission Road, and adjoining areas of the state capital.
The campaign highlighted key issues including awareness of the new Student Loan Scheme (NELFUND), flood prevention strategies, the dangers of extreme sign-out practices in schools, respect for national symbols, and the importance of security consciousness among citizens.
To effectively communicate with the target audience, the sensitisation was conducted in Pidgin English, Edo, and Igbo languages. According to the State Director, the approach is to ensure that the messages are well-received and understood by people from diverse backgrounds.
The representative of the Director General, Director, Community Safety and Compliance Mrs Theresa Nnalue, Chief Executive Officer of We Love Nigeria Unity and Peace Initiative, Anaba Chimele Anthony, and other participants including students from Government Secondary schools, Nyanya and Tudun Wada in a group photograph after the sensitisation programme on internet fraud and cybercrimes, held at the NOA headquarters, Abuja.
NOA ENGAGES ENUGU EAST MONARCHS ON NATIONAL ORIENTATION ISSUES
In a move to deepen grassroots engagement on the five thematic areas of national concern, the Enugu State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has engaged traditional rulers in Enugu East Local Government Area on key national concerns, including sensitisation on extreme sign-out practices, values reorientation, promotion of national symbols, and security awareness.
During a meeting with traditional rulers at the Enugu East Local Government Secretariat, the South-East Zonal Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mrs Regina Iroha, emphasised the importance of partnering with the royal institution to communicate government policies and programmes to the grassroots effectively.
She reiterated that NOA serves as a crucial link between the federal government and the citizens, making collaboration with traditional leaders essential for national development.
Mrs. Iroha informed the traditional rulers about the National Ordinance Day, observed annually on September 16, during which
NOA staff carried out a road walk and sensitisation campaign to promote respect for national symbols. These, according to her, include the National Flag, Coat of Arms, National Anthem and Pledge, the Nigerian Passport, and the National Currency.
The Zonal Director added that, over the past two weeks, the Agency has been actively engaging communities to sensitise students on the dangers of immoral sign-out practices. She noted that these extreme celebrations have led to loss of lives and derailed the future of some young people, urging students to retrace their steps and uphold responsible conduct.
She also urged the traditional rulers to play an active role in sensitising the youth against the growing “getrich-quick” mentality, stressing that curbing such mindsets is crucial to building a decent and secure society with reduced levels of insecurity.
In her remarks, the Enugu State Director of NOA, Mrs. Clara Chinyere
Nwachukwu, thanked the traditional rulers for their time and support, while emphasising the growing menace of extreme “sign-out” practices among students.
She noted that the government is actively taking steps to address the issue and protect the future of the nation’s youth.
Also speaking, the Deputy Director of the Agency, Mr. Chidi Unobagha, urged students in the South-East geo-political zone to take advantage of the NELFUND loan scheme—one of the federal government’s key intervention programmes to support education.
He encouraged them to discard negative perceptions about the initiative and align with other zones already benefiting from the scheme.
NOA Engages Hausa/Muslim Community in Cross River on Civic
Awareness Campaign
In a renewed effort to deepen civic awareness and promote national values, the Cross River State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), has embarked on a strategic engagement with key community leaders in the state.
During an advocacy visit to the palace of the Leader of the Hausa/Muslim community, Sarki Alhaji Salisu Abba Laman, in Calabar, the State Director of NOA, Mr John Asanye, said the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration with the Hausa/Muslim community in sensitising citizens on the agency’s ongoing campaign across five thematic focus areas.
In his remarks, Mr Asanye emphasised the importance of civic engagement and outlined the five thematic areas of focus, which include national values, security awareness, environmental responsibility, citizen participation, and social cohesion.
He stressed the role of traditional institutions in cascading these messages to the grassroots and urged the community to support the government’s reorientation efforts.
Appreciating the Sarki for the warm reception despite the short notice, the NOA Director also extended condolences on the loss of one of the community members. He appealed for continued support in sharing government messages and ensurin g that the Hausa/ Muslim community remains well-informed and engaged in national development efforts.
The interactive session offered a platform for open dialogue, during which the Sarki commended the federal government’s efforts in improving sanitation but expressed concern about the growing security challenges in relation to population expansion.
He advocated for the creation of a state police structure and called for better government support in reaching grassroots communities with relevant information. He pledged to mobilise his community to support the campaign and disseminate the messages of the NOA effectively.
Ondo NOA Engages Royal, Religious Leaders in Akoko North-East
In a bid to strengthen grassroots sensitisation on national values and government programmes, the Community Orientation and Mobilisation Officer (COMO) of Akoko North East, Mr Tunde Arowofela, has taken the federal government’s nationwide advocacy campaign to strategic stakeholders across the local government area. The campaign, which focuses on five thematic areas—value reorientation, discouraging extreme practices, flood mitigation, security consciousness, and sensitization on government programmes and policies— has received strong backing from traditional and religious institutions in the region.
The advocacy visit began at the palace of His Royal Majesty, Oba Saba Olufemi Bankole, the Ajiho III, Oluwade of Akunu Land, where Mr. Arowofela emphasised the important role of traditional rulers in grassroots mobilisation.
In his response, Oba Bankole commended the federal government for the initiative and assured the continued support of the traditional council in educating and guiding the people toward positive national values.
Extending the campaign’s reach, Mr Arowofela also held consultative meetings with prominent religious leaders. He met with the Chief Imam of Akoko North East LGA, Alhaji Mohammadu Abbas, who pledged the cooperation of the Muslim community in promoting peace, security, and responsible civic conduct.
Arowofela and his team also met with the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Akoko North East, General Prophet Bolarinwa Emmanuel, and held robust discussions emphasising the need for religious leaders to champion national values and discourage extreme behaviours within their congregations.
Niger NOA, FRSC Strengthen Synergy for Enhanced Public Safety, National Values
The Niger State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening collaboration in promoting public safety, civic responsibility, and national values through sustained public enlightenment and grassroots engagement.
Receiving a delegation from FRSC, the State Director of NOA, Mallam Yahya Ibrahim Gbongbo, said the meeting is focused on formalising and expanding the framework of cooperation to promote road safety consciousness and positive national values among the citizenry.
Mr Gbongbo also underscored the critical importance of the inter-agency collaboration in achieving national development goals, saying “The work of the FRSC in saving lives on our highways is commendable and aligns perfectly with NOA’s mandate of orienting Nigerians for peaceful coexistence and national development.”
He added that by leveraging NOA’s grassroots mobilisation and public advocacy strength alongside FRSC’s technical expertise, both agencies can drive more impactful campaigns that not only improve driver behaviour but also deepen a national culture of safety, responsibility, and patriotism.
Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE
Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com
08033025611 sms only
As Defiant Akpoti-Uduaghan Weathers Storm, Returns to Senate
sunday Aborisade, in this piece, examines the six-month suspension of Senator Natasha akpoti-Uduaghan’s and her determination to continue to fight injustice as she resumed in her office at the National assembly on Tuesday.
After six tumultuous months in legislative political exile, Senator Natasha AkpotiUduaghan returned to the Senate on Tuesday with her voice louder, resolve firmer, and her stance on injustice unshaken.
Her office door, Suite 2.05 in the Senate wing, was unsealed at exactly 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, marking a symbolic end to what many Nigerians have described as an abuse of legislative power and a glaring example of institutional retaliation against a rising political voice.
Her first words to the press upon resumption were as defiant as they were declarative: “I owe no apology to anyone. If reopening my office was done with the expectation of an apology, then the battle has just begun.”
With that, Akpoti-Uduaghan signaled her intention not only to reclaim her seat but to confront head-on the machinery of suppression that sought to keep her silent.
The Kogi Central Senator, elected under the platform of People’s Democratic Party (PDP) was controversially suspended on March 6, 2025, following a recommendation by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions. Her alleged offense? “Unruly behavior” on the floor of the Senate, stemming from her protest over seat reallocation.
But behind the seemingly procedural action was a tangled web of politics, power plays, and perhaps most damningly, personal retribution.
Speaking candidly on Tuesday, the defiant Senator stripped away the Senate’s official narrative.
“The document that led to my illegal suspension, what Senator Neda Imasuen read, was authored by the Office of the Senate President. The signatures attached to it were not voluntarily given. They were attendance sheet signatures. That’s legislative fraud,” she claimed.
Her accusation underscores a fundamental threat to Nigeria’s legislative integrity: the use of procedural tools to punish dissent and consolidate authority under the guise of order.
In July, 2025, the Federal High Court in Abuja ruled her suspension excessive, unlawful, and unconstitutional, affirming that no legislative chamber has the power to suspend an elected representative without due process.
But despite the landmark ruling, the Senate leadership refused to budge. For weeks, Akpoti-Uduaghan was barred from her office and excluded from plenary sessions, as the Senate claimed it needed a “fresh resolution” or “further judicial direction.”
It took public outrage, legal pressure, and sustained advocacy from the media, the civil society and socio-cultural and political organisations for the Senate to quietly retreat.
With no formal announcement, her office was reopened. But plenary, originally scheduled to resume this week, was mysteriously postponed.
A memo from the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, offered no clear reason, fueling suspicions that the leadership was buying time to manage the political fallout.
A National Assembly staffer, requesting anonymity, described the move as a “face-saving strategy”.
“They can’t admit fault openly.
But reopening her office without allowing her to speak on the floor would’ve invited fresh legal action and media scrutiny,” he claimed.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension was not an isolated skirmish; it was part of a much broader war, one entangled in gender politics, power imbalances, and a toxic legislative culture.
In a petition submitted to the United Nations earlier this week, over 350 women’s rights organisations under the coalition Womanifesto accused the Nigerian Senate of retaliating against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan following her sexual harassment complaint against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Their complaint, filed with the UN Special Rapporteur on Violence Against Women and Girls, highlighted institutional bias, abuse of authority, and an alarming disregard for due process.
The petition read in part, “This is not merely an isolated disciplinary matter. It represents a disturbing case of institutional retaliation against a woman legislator for reporting sexual harassment.”
While Senator Akpabio has denied the allegations, the optics remain damning: a female senator suspended shortly after raising a serious complaint, with the Ethics Committee dismissing her petition without a transparent investigation.
It is this context that transforms AkpotiUduaghan’s return into a moment of
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return to the senate may mark the end of a suspension, but it could also signify the beginning of something larger: a reckoning within the n ational Assembly, a realignment of public expectations, and a reassertion of democratic accountability. she is, in many ways, a new kind of nigerian politician, one who refuses to play by the unspoken rules of deference and silence.
national reckoning, not just about legislative discipline but about the treatment of women in power and the limits of Nigerian democracy.
“Senator Akpabio is not more of a senator than I am. He’s not a governor of this place. He cannot treat me as if I am his domestic staff,” Akpoti-Uduaghan submitted out of frustration while speaking with journalists on Tuesday.
With those words, Natasha issued a direct challenge to the prevailing power dynamics in the 10th National Assembly. Her statement wasn’t merely personal, it was systemic. It spoke to a deeper rot within the legislative institution, one where loyalty is rewarded, dissent is punished, and women are often expected to defer. Yet, in a chamber often characterized by backdoor politics and coded silence, Akpoti-Uduaghan has chosen confrontation over compliance.
Her refusal to apologise, despite reports that the Senate Minority Leader may demand it when plenary resumes on October 7, has sparked public debate on whether elected representatives should ever be compelled to express contrition for defending their rights.
She said, “You don’t apologise for being a victim of injustice. Institutions must be put to the test. We must never cower in the face of illegality.”
Throughout her ordeal, Akpoti-Uduaghan did not stand alone. She was buoyed by a wave of support that transcended party lines and political affiliations.
From Atiku Abubakar and Bukola Saraki to Oby Ezekwesili, Aisha Yesufu, and Femi Falana, Nigeria’s leading political and civil voices rallied behind her.
The Nigerian Bar Association, Labour Party, African Democratic Congress, members of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Afenifere, the Yoruba foremost economic and political organisation, among others, decried her suspension as an assault on democratic values.
NOTE:
Akpoti-Uduaghan seated in her office at the national Assembly on Tuesday
The NYSC 2025 Batch 'B' Stream II Course is scheduled to hold in all NYSC Orientation Camps as follows: th (a) Commencement/Registration: Wednesday, 24 September, 2025 th (b) Cut-off date for Registration: Midnight Friday, 26 September,2025 th (c) Swearing-In Ceremony: Friday, 26 September, 2025 th (d) Closing Ceremony: Tuesday, 14 October, 2025
However, Prospective Corps Members are to note that orientation course in Kwara State will th th commence on Tuesday, 30 September and close on Monday, 20 October, 2025.
2. All prospective Corps Members (PCM) slated for the 2025 Batch 'B' Stream II Orientation Course are advised to proceed to their respective camps as stated on their Call-up Letters. Foreign-trained graduates are to report to the camp with their International Passports and original copies of all uploaded documents.
3. Prospective Corps Members are urged to carefully read through the call-up letter and internalize all the relevant information therein.
4 Prospective Corps Members are advised to patronize vehicles at government approved motor parks and transportation companies only, while journeying to their respective orientation camp This is to reduce the risks of falling prey to criminals and other security hazards.
5. The NYSC advises prospective Corps Members to avoid night journeys. Once it is 6.00pm, they are enjoined to break their journeys and pass the night at any military or police barracks, NYSC Secretariats or NYSC Corps Lodges nearest to their disembarkment location. The NYSC strongly discourages night journeys
6. Prospective Corps Members, who are graduates of Monotechnics and Polytechnics are required to present certificates of National Diploma, in addition to other documents, as a prerequisite for registration at the Orientation Camps nationwide
7 On no account should prospective Corps Members present fake documents for registration. Anyone who does so will be apprehended, handed over to the law enforcement and duly prosecuted
8. In the event of any loss of Call-up Letter, the prospective Corps Member who collected the Call-up letter from his/her institution is advised to obtain Police Report and Sworn Affidavit and thereafter report to the institution of graduation for further necessary action. Those who initially printed their Call-up Letters online can re-print the Call-up Letter in the case of loss.
9. Any person who fails to report for service in the Service Corps as directed in the Call-up Letter and/or refuses to make himself available for service in the Service Corps shall be prosecuted in line with the provisions of Section 13 sub-section 1(a) and (b) of the NYSC Act, Cap N84, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004
10. Also, any person who is not eligible to participate in the Service Corps or has been duly issued with a Certificate of National Service or Certificate of Exemption but so participates or attempts to so participate shall be prosecuted in line with Section 13 sub-section 2(a) and (b) of the NYSC Act, Cap N84, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004
11. All married, pregnant and nursing mothers who are posted to states other than their husbands' states of domicile may proceed to the NYSC Orientation camps in their states of residence, regardless of posting. However, in addition to the registration requirements, they must present the underlisted documents to support their claims:
i. Evidence of marriage.
ii. Acceptable identification of their husbands (data page of international passport, driver's license, national identity card etc)
iii. Evidence of husband's place of domicile;
REQUIREMENTS FOR REGISTRATION
(a) Original Call-up Letter or Call-up Letter printed on-line.
(b) Original Statement of Result or Certificate endorsed by authorized officer with authentic signature.
(c) School Identity Card.
(d) Foreign graduates must present International Passport and original copies of all uploaded documents.
(e) M
Radiographers, Optometrists and graduates of Health Record & Information Management are to produce evidence of Registration with their Professional Bodies.
(f ) In addition, each Prospective Corps Member MUST present Certificate of Fitness from a Government or Military Hospital affixed with Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) Stamp showing his/her health status before he/she will be registered. The Director General, Brig Gen OO Nafiu wishes all Prospective Corps Members safe journey to their respective Orientation Camps and a successful Service year.
As the shift toward locally made defence equipment is not only enhancing tactical capabilities on the front lines, Francis Sardauna x-rays the Track Armoured Personnel Carrier (TAPC) manufactured by the Katsina-based engineering company, Techno-Em Global Solutions Limited
In Katsina State, where attacks on rural communities have claimed hundreds of lives and displaced thousands, a new chapter has unfolded as Techno-Em Global Solutions Limited, under the leadership of Ibrahim Lawal Dankaba, has built a Track Armoured Personnel Carrier (TAPC) to support the government in tackling the age-old conflict.
Dankaba’s self-initiative, conceptualised by his resilience and hard work, commenced early this month (September) with the designing and fabricating of homegrown steel plates to form the armoured components and integrating them into a complete security vehicle chassis.
These locally fabricated armoured components were carefully and conspicuously mounted and welded to the Track Armoured Personnel Carrier vehicle’s frame with full bullet resistance and a remotecontrol device which monitors the movement of the enemies.
With a berth of seven seats and specialised equipment such as a robotic turret, Dynamic Positioning System (DPS) and a cargo belt, the prototype armoured personnel carrier provides a protected and mobile platform for security personnel, giving them a significant advantage in hostile environments.
The robotic turret of the TAPC is designed to allow the cabin crew to fire guns without necessarily coming out. It paves the way for them to also gather intelligence and monitor enemy movements from a safe distance, providing critical situational awareness for commanders.
When certified by relevant authorities for usage, the armoured vehicle would shield soldiers and other security operatives from small arms fire, artillery shrapnel, landmines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), reducing casualties and increasing operational effectiveness.
Using continuous and interlocking tracks instead of wheels to move, the armoured carrier vehicle has well-designed steel tracks or undercarriage to operate, moving quickly and safely through highrisk terrains, including rugged and challenging landscapes that some security vehicles might find difficult to enter or operate.
It can also swiftly transport security operatives to strategic locations and provide covering fire when needed, allowing them to manoeuvre more effectively. This mobility is essential for rapid response and for sustaining operations in remote or difficultto-access communities in states like Katsina.
More importantly, the engine of this security vehicle has provisions
for Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and diesel, thereby allowing forces to project power and maintain security across wide and diverse geographic areas.
While some operational vehicles have ground clearance between 170 and 200mm, this carefully designed track armoured personnel carrier has a ground clearance capacity of 600mm, making it exceptionally high and offering significant capacity for traversing rough and uneven terrains across the state.
Beyond combat, the prototype armoured personnel carrier is also crucial for logistics because of its cargo belt. It can transport essential supplies, equipment and medical personnel to operatives in the battlefield, which is vital for sustained operations and for reducing the vulnerability of supply lines to attacks.
Although it is the first-of-itskind initiative in Katsina, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Techno-Em Global Solutions Limited, Ibrahim Lawal Dankaba, is betting on this homegrown technology to do what boots on the ground have struggled to achieve for decades.
With rigorous quality control at in-house shooting ranges to ensure compliance with strict ballistic and manufacturing standards, Dankaba believes that the armoured vehicle has reinforced structures to protect its occupants from bullets, explosions and assaults.
Speaking on what informed his decision to manufacture the armoured personnel carrier, Dankaba said: “The idea came from the fact that we have looked around insurgency and other criminalities going on, and looked for ways to help ourselves, communities and the government
to keep us safe.
“The military, the police and the residents are doing their best, but we also felt that we could contribute our quota in addressing the crisis. So, we decided to construct this Track Armoured Personnel Carrier. This vehicle gives more manoeuvrability; it can access any terrain. It’s an all-terrain vehicle. It does not care whether the terrain is sandy or muddy.
“We decided to construct the TAPC because we want it to access all terrains available in the Sahel region of Nigeria and to help secure our state and the country at large. The cabin can take up to seven officers. It has a cargo belt that can carry relief or support materials to hard-toreach communities.”
He explained that the company used steel plates to manufacture the prototype armoured personnel carrier. “But by the time it scales through, we will be using ballistic materials to provide the armoured and steel tracks.”
“It’s cheaper than the foreign APCs and by the time we are fully supported by the government for more production, we will be creating additional jobs for our teeming youths and bringing out the strength of our engineering also,” he added.
Asked whether the TAPC has been certified by relevant authorities, the Managing Director of Techno-Em Global Solutions Limited said: “We are reaching out to the Office of the National Security Adviser for clearance and certification so that we can continue producing more to fight insecurity in Katsina and the country at large.”
Noting that the company is more committed and interested in producing the Track Armoured Personnel Carriers to overcome the challenges of the terrains,
Dankaba said in the future: “We look forward to building drones and other security gadgets as the case may be.”
While metal sheets were properly bent and formed under immense pressure to achieve the correct angles and shapes for the vehicle’s body, its manufacturer said special attention was given to interior features, including protection for components like the engine, radiator and systems for crew safety.
Dedicating the prototype armoured personnel carrier to the families of those who lost their loved ones in the ongoing war against banditry and insurgency, Dankaba noted that it will support the state and federal governments’ efforts to bring an end to criminality and restore peace, which is paramount to progress and sustainable development.
However, this life-saving initiative underscores the commitment of the Kaita-born successful entrepreneur and administrator in supporting Governor Dikko Umaru Radda’s government in tackling security challenges besetting some agrarian communities in the state.
Therefore, it is imperative for the government at all levels to support Dankaba’s homegrown armoured personnel carrier because it is a strategic move for state and national security, economic growth, job creation and technological sovereignty of the country.
Dankaba, who is the current Executive Director of the Katsina State Small Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Agency, deserves accolades and financial support from both the state and federal governments to sustain this homegrown security system for infantry fighting.
Supporting domestic solutions like this ensures control over the technology used to protect lives and property, critical infrastructure and sensitive data, and averts supply chain disruptions and embedded vulnerabilities or backdoors that could be exploited by other countries.
If properly harnessed and supported, the initiative would foster a culture of innovation and lead to the creation of advanced technologies that can have dual-use applications in both the public and private sectors, enhancing the state’s security architecture and avoiding waste of resources.
This robust security strategy can equally help in diversifying the state economy because the skills and technologies developed for security purposes can be leveraged to create new commercial products and services, thereby boosting the overall economy of the state.
The locally made Armoured Personnel Carrier
How the CBN’s Reforms, Battle against Inflation are Yielding Positive Results
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN’s) policy reforms and strategies to tame inflation have led to drastic drop in inflation rate. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report showed that headline inflation rate dropped from 21.88 per cent in July to 20.12 per cent in August. Analysts insist that the focus on price stability derives from the overwhelming evidence that it is only in the midst of stable prices that business and economic growth can be sustained. Precious Ugwuzor reports
Price and exchange rate stability are key roles that every central bank does not take for granted. For the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) achieving price stability remains a key determinant of its policy directions.
For instance, the CBN-led Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) halted its policy rate tightening cycle at the first meeting of the year held in February 2025 by keeping its Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) at 27.50 per cent and maintaining other parameters unchanged. That was the first policy rate tightening pause since May 2022.
This decision, often called a “hawkish pause” was made to allow the effects of previous tightening measures to be fully assessed while still prioritizing price stability to combat inflation.
The decision was part of sustained policy measures and deployment of monetary policy tools to keep a positive inflation outlook and stabilize the naira across markets.
That decision has been yielding positive results as seen in the latest National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) Consumer Price Index (CPI) report.
According to the report, headline inflation rate dropped by 176 basis points from 21.88 per cent in July to 20.12 per cent in August.
The latest was the fifth consecutive decline since April and overshot average projections, although analysts had almost unanimously expected the disinflationary trend to continue.
The CPI report showed that food inflation dropped by 87 basis points from 22.74 per cent in July to 21.87 per cent in August. The decline in food inflation was attributed to decrease in average prices of basic food items including rice, guinea corn flour, maize flour sold loose, sorghum, millet, semolina and soya milk among others.
Also, core inflation, which comprised of all items excluding farm produce and energy, dropped by 100 basis points from 21.33 per cent in July to 20.33 per cent in August.
The NBS had reported that headline inflation rate eased by 34 basis points to 21.88 per cent in July from 22.22 per cent in June. Inflation rate had dropped from 22.97 per cent in May to 22.22 per cent in June, an improvement of 75 basis points. Headline inflation rate had improved by 52 basis points to 23.71 per cent in April on the back of reduced food inflation. Composite inflation had for the first time after the January rebasing, risen by 105 basis points to 24.23 per cent in March as against 23.18 per cent recorded in February.
A breakdown of the latest CPI report also concurrence between the monthly and annual trends, underlining analysts’ consensus that the disinflationary trend was related to macroeconomic gains.
Bismarck Rewane’s Financial Derivatives Company (FDC) noted that Nigeria’s inflation rate is also driven by exchange rate with the stability in exchange rate impacting positively in inflation figures.
Analysts at CardinalStone said they
expected the disinflation trend to continue citing the improvement in overall macroeconomic environment.
“The positive pass-through of the strengthening currency to inflation is likely to persist in September, with the official rate currently trading below N1,500.00 per dollar and having appreciated by 2.4 per cent month-to-date. The improving forex narrative reflects stronger fundamentals, especially with the current account coasting in the surplus territory, which has helped the forex reserves to reach $41.7 billion. Foreign portfolio inflows (FPI) inflows also remained net positive as Nigeria’s carry trade, the highest in Africa, remains attractive,” CardinalStone stated.
Other steps by the CBN
In its efforts to tame inflation, the CBN recently hosted the Monetary Policy Forum 2025, featuring fiscal authorities, legislative, private sector, development partners, subject-matter experts, and scholars with the theme: “Managing the Disinflation Process”.
The forum is a major push to improve monetary policy communication, foster dialogue, and collaborate on critical issues shaping monetary policy.
During the event, CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso explained that the apex bank’s focus is to sustain price stability, the planned transition to an inflation-targeting framework, and strategies to restore purchasing power and ease economic hardship.
He said the apex bank is continuing its disciplined approach to monetary policy, aimed at curbing inflation and stabilising the economy.
“These actions have yielded measurable progress: relative stability in the FX market, narrowing exchange rate disparities, and a rise in external reserves to over $40 billion as of December 2024.”
Cardoso reiterated that the goal of the CBN is to ensure that monetary
policy remains forward-looking, adaptive, and resilient.
In addressing our economic challenges, collaboration is key: “Managing disinflation amidst persistent shocks requires not only robust policies but also coordination between fiscal and monetary authorities to anchor expectations and maintain investor confidence,” Cardoso said.
“Our focus must remain on price stability, the planned transition to an inflation-targeting framework, and strategies to restore purchasing power and ease economic hardship,” he added.
The CBN also focused on strengthening the banking sector, introducing new minimum capital requirements for banks (effective March 2026) to ensure resilience and position Nigeria’s banking industry for a $1 trillion economy.
These reforms and developments reflect the Bank’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for inclusive economic development. However, achieving macroeconomic stability requires sustained vigilance and a proactive monetary policy stance.
“As we shift from unorthodox to orthodox monetary policy, the CBN remains committed to restoring confidence, strengthening policy credibility, and staying focused on its core mandate of price stability,” Cardoso stated.
He said moving from the exchange rate targeting framework to the inflation targeting framework aligned with the apex bank’s determination to bring inflation upsurge under control in line with its price stability mandate.
Inflation uptick has remained a major concern to the CBN and is the time to use monetary policy tools to control it.
Understanding inflation matters
According to CBN report, inflation is one of the most frequently used terms in economic discussions, yet
the concept is variously misconstrued. There are various schools of thought on inflation, but there is a consensus among economists that inflation is a continuous rise in the prices.
Simply put, inflation depicts an economic situation where there is a general rise in the prices of goods and services, continuously. It could be defined as ‘a continuing rise in prices as measured by an index such as the consumer price index (CPI) or by the implicit price deflator for Gross National Product (GNP).
Inflation is frequently described as a state where “too much money is chasing too few goods”. When there is inflation, the currency loses purchasing power. The purchasing power of a given amount of naira will be smaller over time when there is inflation in the economy.
For instance, assuming that N10.00 can purchase 10 shirts in the current period, if the price of shirts double in the next period, the same N10.00 can only afford five shirts.
Aside the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) rebasing exercise which had positive feedback, a slight slowdown in food prices is being witnessed and a seven per cent dip in petrol costs was also a welcome development.
For many Nigerians, the numbers tell a good story, and should be a forerunner to exchange rate and price stability.
At the same time, Nigeria’s crude oil production has continued to rise, exceeding its OPEC+ quota and offering a glimmer of hope for the naira.
Rewane said a stronger oil sector could mean more stable fuel prices and a boost in government revenue.
Director of Trading at Verto, Charlie Bird, said oil price stability or appreciation, strong dollar liquidity in NAFEM alongside a tight spread to parallel market, stable or increasing foreign reserve data and any form of FX appreciation with low volatility portend positive signals for the economy, and will impact positively on inflation data.
Speaking during Cordros Asset Management seminar titled: “The Naira Playbook”, he said positive impact of CBN’s reforms has continued affect the market and economic indicators positively.
Inflation rate drop to persist Nigeria could end the year with its lowest inflation in nearly a decade, according to the Independent Media and Policy Initiative (IMPI), which is projecting headline inflation will drop to 17 percent by December 2025.
The group, however, said the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) must match this rare economic momentum by easing its restrictive monetary stance.
In its latest policy statement, signed by Chairman Dr. Omoniyi Akinsiju, the think tank noted that the economy is experiencing one of its rare periods of disinflation, marked by five consecutive months of inflation decline.
Cardoso
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CARDINALSTONE’S EUROMONEY AWARD AND THE FUTURE OF BROKERAGE IN AFRICA
The award is about recognition, reinforcement of standards, strategy, and the rising sophistication of Nigeria’s capital market ecosystem, reckons SOLA ONI
A RADICAL WITH A CAUSE Omoyele Sowore is committed to the public good, argues FRANK TIETIE
opinion@thisdaylive.com
MONDAY PHILIPS EKPE writes that this foremost playwright, scholar and cultural ambassador has led a truly accomplished life
TESS ONWUEME AT 70
Professor Ngugi wa Thiong’o, worldrenowned Kenyan literary giant, described Professor Tess Osonye Onwueme thus:
“In her work, Onwueme has shown daring in her exploration of ideas even if they lead to subjects and themes which may seem taboo. Onwueme is eminently a political dramatist, for power affects every aspect of society. She explores these themes with a dazzling array of images and proverbs. Her drama and theatre are a feast of music, mime, proverbs and storytelling… Onwueme consolidates her position among the leading dramatists from Africa.”
Professor Eugene Redmond, poetlaureate at Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville, IL, USA was even more robust and sweeping in his submission: “Among her literary soul mates are Wole Soyinka, Ama Ata Aidoo, Samuel Beckett, Derek Walcott, John Pepper Clark, Albert Camus, Chinua Achebe, Toni Morrison, Anton Chekhov, Femi Osofisan, Ngugi wa Thiong’o, George Bernard Shaw, Athol Fugard, August Wilson, Amos Tutuola, Gloria Naylor, Buchi Emecheta, Dennis Brutus, Alex LaGuma, Mariama Ba, and Sembene Ousmane.”
And Professor Ernest Emenyonu, preeminent and globally acclaimed scholar on African literature, once declared: “Dr. Tess Onwueme by reputation is a powerfully engaging speaker of oratorical dimensions.… Onwueme creates passion with her eloquence, enriching every verbal articulation with charisma and charm. She entertains even as she addresses issues of critical substance.” I was among the audience in Wisconsin USA who witnessed one of her epic performances when the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire celebrated her spectacularly and archived her works in October 2014. Emenyonu was right.
To be clear, these endorsements and many others didn’t just happen. This alumnus of University of Ife and University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria, first made her mark at home before accepting the offer to start her academic sojourn abroad at Montclair State University, New Jersey, USA, as Associate Professor of English and Multicultural Literary Studies in 1990. Onwueme’s scholarly run in America ended gloriously after three decades in Wisconsin-Eau Claire as Distinguished Professor of Cultural Diversity, English and Global Letters. Her numerous published writings, mostly plays, have been staged across continents, graced diverse curricula and anchored a large number of PhD theses worldwide.
Besides, she has to her credit an enviable collection of firsts. At 25, she was the youngest lecturer in Ife while also pursuing higher degrees in Benin. First female president of Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA). First African woman professor of global letters in any major American university - joining the elite tribe of authors like Achebe, Soyinka, Ngugi, Morrison, Walcott and Maya Angelou. First African female playwright whose works were dedicated and reposed in a main American university, again in the league of personalities like Soyinka, Achebe and Ngugi. First African woman dramatist whose plays were performed at elite theatres in New York. Her debut there in 1988 turned out to be a strategic gate opener to international platforms. First female winner of ANA Drama Prize and the only playwright who has done so four times.
Those exceptional outings were achieved with The Desert Encroaches (1985), Tell It to Women (1995), Shakara Dance-hall Queen (2001) and Then She Said It (2003). Her stage tours around Nigeria in the 1980s, including National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos, contributed significantly to the making of what would become one of Nigeria’s most successful intellectual and cultural exports. There’re usually uplifting stories behind notable achievers. My THISDAY article titled “Mum Was My Architect” and published on September 8, 2005, the day Onwueme hit the golden age, attempted to capture her central inspiration – Maria Akaeke, her mother, who had passed on in the previous month.
It read in part: “The mother-child relationship is an abiding metaphor especially in African literature. A child is ever grateful to his mother for giving him life and seeing him through the
vicissitudes of early life. But there is something that makes Tess Onwueme’s case stand out: It’s almost impossible for her to think of her fruitful life outside the impact of her mother’s care, admonition and guidance. The bulk of her earliest memories centres around the cruelty and physical assault her mother was subjected to in a short-lived marriage.”
This daughter of Ogwashi Ukwu in Delta State recounts her past emotively: “Since that night when my mother ran away from a suffocating marriage and abandoned me at six years old to find my way through the thorny wilderness of the village, my life journey became forged by one fear, the fear of failing. Before she fled, my mother had planted in me the resolve that I must not fail. So, early in life I came to embrace the realities that I am alone; that my dinner is in the forest; and that I must fetch it myself, for nobody else will do it for me. Above all, that I must do it right, and not through the backdoor.
“As I staggered and stumbled and fell along the way, limping and, yet, determined to pick up myself even while I hurt, I've also ingested this tablet of truth that learning is my destiny. I find myself dancing on fire to breathe and to scale my way up the Kilimanjaro, as I persist in striving to make me something out of nothing. I embraced hard work with integrity as the magic wand, charm and prop required. I also armed myself with hope and faith in my creator God Almighty while clutching on to my dignity with steadfast perseverance, even when I hurt, stumble, and fall.
“In that claustrophobic space of silence and fear, I began writing journals, and began to find shelter and relief in my writing to find and create a community to dialogue with. Then, my writing became my voice. And can I say that writing found me and saved me from choking and silence? Yes! As I strain my neck far back to carve a legacy of highways and beacons for many others coming behind, my heart keeps humming inside me: To God be the glory for performing His mercies. Thank God I made it through! For my next decade, I must fashion and make my new business: rest!”
Really, what else should this mother of optimally-established children – Kenolisa, Ebele, Kunume, Bundo and Malije – and grandmother of over a dozen kids wish for? To thoroughly enjoy the dividends of her toils, hopefully.
Dr Ekpe is a member of THISDAY Editorial Board
CARDINALSTONE’S EUROMONEY AWARD
AND THE FUTURE OF BROKERAGE IN AFRICA
When CardinalStone was named Africa’s Best Broker at the 2025 Euromoney Capital Market Awards, it was more than a corporate accolade. The breaking news was a defining moment for Nigeria and a compelling signal to Africa’s broader investment community. At the basic level, it confirmed what industry insiders have long known: that African financial institutions, when equipped with vision, innovation, and discipline, can not only compete on the global stage, but lead.
The award is about recognition, reinforcement of standards, strategy, and the rising sophistication of Nigeria’s capital market ecosystem, reckons SOLA ONI seriously.
CardinalStone’s triumph is also a reflection of the Nigerian capital market’s resilience and forward momentum. Despite the headwinds, including currency volatility, inflation and policy inconsistencies, there is a market that is growing, innovating, and increasingly aligned with global best practices.
This win should prompt celebration across the financial markets. But it is more of reflection. CardinalStone’s award is not just about recognition; it is about reinforcement of standards, strategy, and the rising sophistication of Nigeria’s capital market ecosystem.
For the third consecutive year, CardinalStone has maintained its position as Nigeria’s top stockbroker by both trade value and volume. From January to August 2025, the firm executed transactions
exceeding ₦800 billion and over 27 billion shares on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), reinforcing its sustained leadership in the market.
More importantly, CardinalStone has evolved from a transactional broker into a pan-African investment partner, delivering tailored solutions to institutional and retail clients, backed by in-depth research and data-driven insights. It reflects a new generation of African capital market players, one that understands that performance today must be powered by technology, trust, and transformation.
The Euromoney Capital Market Awards are widely respected as a benchmark for excellence in global finance. For a Nigerian firm to emerge as the continent’s best brokerage house speaks volumes about the growing maturity of Nigeria’s financial ecosystem, and the potential that lies within Africa’s capital markets at large. But this win also raises an important question:
It wasn’t merely trade volume. It was the firm’s commitment to high-impact service delivery, its strategic embrace of innovation, and its active role in reshaping access to the market, from urban professionals to first-time retail investors. This is a model that regulators, policymakers, and fellow market participants must take
We are witnessing structural changes: the upcoming shift to T+2 settlement cycles at Central Clearing Securities System ( SCS) PLC, the expansion of fintech-driven platforms, rising retail participation, and deeper integration between research and execution. These trends point to a maturing market, one where informed decisions are replacing speculation, and long-term value is beginning to eclipse short-term hype.
CardinalStone’s model fits squarely into this new reality. Its approach, anchored on client-centricity, transparency, and agility, is setting a new standard. It proves that being African-rooted and globally benchmarked is not only possible, but profitable.
While CardinalStone’s success is commendable, it also highlights the urgent need for broader ecosystem support. Africa’s capital markets still face significant barriers: inadequate infrastructure, regulatory bottlenecks, low financial literacy, and a limited pool of investible products. These issues restrict access, hinder depth, and ultimately affect investor confidence.
To build on this momentum, government must implement capital market-friendly policies, including tax incentives for listed companies, investor protections, and FX clarity. Without this, investor attraction and retention will remain an uphill task. If Africa’s population is to become its true capital base, then investor literacy must be a continental priority. Capital market education should be mainstreamed into financial inclusion strategies, especially for young people. As CardinalStone has shown, brokerage is no longer about trading alone, it’s about platforms, analytics, and experience. Regulators and operators must collaborate to build the digital infrastructure needed to support 21st-century capital flows.
CardinalStone’s win is not just a milestone; it is a marker, a signal that African firms can rise to global excellence when given the right tools, talent, and terrain. It’s also a challenge to other brokerage firms, exchanges, and regulators to raise their game.
In a continent that is often written off in global finance conversations, this win repositions Africa as a breeding ground for high-impact innovation and financial leadership. It’s a timely reminder that excellence is not the preserve of foreign institutions, it’s alive in Lagos, Nairobi, Johannesburg, Cairo, and beyond. If one firm can lead Africa from the front, many more can follow, provided the ecosystem is ready to support their journey.
Oni,
an Integrated Communications Strategist, Chartered Stockbroker, Commodities Broker and Capital Market Registrar, is the Chief Executive Officer, Sofunix Investment and Communications
Omoyele Sowore is committed to the public good, argues FRANK TIETIE
A RADICAL WITH A CAUSE
In Nigeria, while many see political leadership as an opportunity for self-enrichment, a few exceptional individuals perceive it as a calling to make huge personal sacrifices. These kinds of sacrificial leaders, often at great personal risk, including the potential cost of their own lives, are wholly committed to improving the lives of the Nigerian people and working to ensure their present and future well-being.
Among the current political leaders in Nigeria, one figure presently stands out with distinction due to his unwavering dedication to the national cause for a better life and the well-being of the Nigerian people: He is Omoyele Sowore!
In a political landscape where the common practice among politicians and public servants is self-enrichment, albeit with some justification for selfpreservation, it becomes morally reprehensible to prioritize personal gain at the expense of the public good. The rampant misappropriation of public resources for individual benefit despite its resulting pain, suffering, poverty, and even death for many Nigerians has become a persistent feature of Nigeria’s politics, much like in various other African nations.
When you survey the Nigerian political scene today, one must ask: which politician is truly willing to risk their life to improve the state of the nation? The answer is clear: none but Sowore—the courageous heart!
Sowore has willingly relinquished the comforts of life to advocate fiercely for the Nigerian people. Rather than exploiting the popularity and sociopolitical capital he has gained as an activist for personal gain, he has vowed to endure state persecution, be it detention or even death, all in his quest for a better Nigeria. Instead of leveraging his respected status among government
officials to negotiate wealth for himself, as many in his position would typically do, he has bravely called out corruption at the highest levels, fearlessly naming the officials he accuses of theft and misgovernance, even knowing the risks to his life. He condemns human rights violations by the police and Nigerian authorities while simultaneously advocating for improved working conditions for the police and other law enforcement officers.
Currently, Sowore faces the deprivation of family life due to his commitment to the Nigerian dream of better leadership. On what should have been a joyful occasion, his marriage anniversary, he was unable to be with his beloved wife and children because of numerous unjust legal battles initiated against him by the Nigerian government. Did he really need to fiercely confront the Nigerian failing system in a manner that brings him such immense danger and discomfort to himself and his family? Only a person driven by a divine calling and the conviction that he is engaged in a “special assignment” to rescue Nigeria would do things Sowore presently does.
Few individuals in Nigeria’s history, such as Herbert Macaulay, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, Gani Fawehinmi, and Frank Ovie Kokori, have demonstrated the kind of sacrificial leadership Sowore presently exemplifies.
To address the current leadership crisis in Nigeria, the hope for improvement lies in the emergence of sacrificial leaders who are free from personal ambition. While figures like Sowore may now be few and feeble in the shadows of the might of rapacious state actors, the hope for a better Nigeria that he embodies, whether he lives or dies, remains mighty and strong. As we work and pray for a better Nigeria, let's also pray for Omoyele Sowore!
Tietie, lawyer, media personality, and development advocate, writes from Abuja
Successful nation-states around the world have been built on the sacrifices made by their leaders.
Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA
Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com
GRAZING AND THE NOMADIC CHALLENGE
The age of nomadic herding belongs to the past
Under the various laws that have been enacted in many of the 36 states in recent years, it is illegal to have the highways taken over by animals while cattle rearers who invade farmlands for grazing purposes commit trespass. But enforcing such laws have been difficult because of a socio-cultural issue that has not been addressed. Yet, when the farms are destroyed the criminal offence of willful destruction of property is committed. In many instances, the clashes between cattle rearers and farm owners have led to serious communal disturbances. While dealing with this perennial problem will task any government, what is needed is for all critical stakeholders to come together to address the challenge.
As we have always argued on this page, it is indeed one of the curious tragedies of modern Nigeria that we have come to accept the category 'nomadic' as a permanent description of a vital segment of our populace. The tragic consequence has been the ever frequent bloody clashes between nomads and settled landowners and farmers in nearly every part of the country. And now we also witness almost on a daily basis the involvement of nomads in aspects of our emerging national crime culture: kidnapping for ransom, armed robbery, etc. Now that we can see the manifestation of this state of affairs in violent clashes in several theatres across the country, it is evident that we cannot allow it to continue.
the length and breadth of the country, often herding evacuated cattle, we violate the rights of these animals and endanger the health of citizens through exposure to the elements and a cocktail of diseases.
More importantly, we are encouraging the violation of the rights of settled landowners and farmers whose crops bear the brunt of cattle grazing. In the process we endanger national security because both settled crop farmers and migrant herdsmen have economic interests to protect sometimes with dangerous weapons. The nation must therefore bring to the front burner how to resolve the issue of herdsmen and the concomitant destruction of farmlands that in turn engender crisis in several places across the country.
By allowing them to roam the length and breadth of the country, we violate the rights of these animals, and endanger the health of citizens through exposure to the elements and a cocktail of diseases
T H I S D AY
EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU
DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE
MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU
CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN
THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE
T H I S D AY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
Beyond the fatalities and the disruption to national peace, there are other fundamental issues. First, by accepting the category of nomad as a norm, we are vicariously denying these citizens of the benefits of settled human civilisation which include the right to a place to call home, the right to own land and other property, and above all the full citizenship rights enjoyed by other Nigerians. By allowing them to roam
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com
Letters to the Editor
However, there is an obvious solution, if only the authorities are serious. States with migrant cattle herding culture and populations have a ready agricultural harvest waiting to be reaped if we encourage cattle farmers to establish large farms and ranches. We can then employ and re-train the herdsmen in modern settled cattle farming. The animals will be healthier; the handlers will earn decent incomes, have decent accommodation, own property and have schools for their kids. Ancillary industries will also emerge, and employment opportunities will blossom. Some states, especially in the North, have already keyed into this idea but there is a need for them to do more.
In the history of humanity, the stage of development at which man wandered for a livelihood belongs to the stone age. Let us stop insulting ourselves with romanticising the ‘nomadic culture’ by beginning to reap the fullest benefits of our natural endowments through aggressive modernisation of our modes of agricultural production. Brazil and the United States (Alabama) which are some of the world's largest cattle producers do not have the menace and insult of 'nomads'.
REMI TINUBU: A DIFFERENT KIND OF FIRST LADY
Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Nigeria’s First Lady, is proving that the role of First Lady can be more than ceremonial. She has chosen to make her office a platform for service, empowerment, and social impact. Many are of the opinion that her leadership style is pro-people, and her actions are leaving footprints of hope across the country.
Senator Tinubu, on her just recent 65th birthday, and perhaps in one of her most striking gesture, instead of personal gifts, made a heartfelt appeal: she asked Nigerians and friends of the nation to contribute to upgrading and completing the long-abandoned National Library of Nigeria, which plays an irreplaceable role in Nigeria as the apex repository of knowledge.
Mobilizing donors is no small feat, and libraries are indeed worth every naira. But the symbolism is undeniable. Already, over ₦20.7 billion has been raised toward the ₦100 billion target. For her, the best birthday gift is not luxury, but legacy is a knowledge hub that will serve generations to come.
The wife of the President, to stem the misconceptions about any political motives behind the fundraising, has quickly debunked claims on her motives saying it is not connected to anything political nor is tied to her husband’s 2027 re-election bid, but underscores her consistent dedication to nation-building through philanthropy.
The National Library of Nigeria, whose construction began in 2006, with promises that it would be a beacon of knowledge and a sanctuary for generations, has remained unfinished story for decades. Now, through her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), there a ray of light at the end of the tunnel.
Senator Tinubu is also tackling issues that directly affect everyday Nigerians. From the “Flow With Confidence” project, which provides sanitary pads to 370,000 schoolgirls to reduce dropouts, to economic empowerment programmes that equip women with start-up kits, freezers, cookers, and capital grants, her focus is on giving dignity and opportunity to the vulnerable. She has also extended support to widows,
orphans of military personnel, flood victims, traders, and persons with disabilities, providing funds, food, and tools to help them rebuild their lives.
Beyond social interventions, she continues to champion education and youth development. Her New Era Foundation laid the groundwork for empowering young people through skills and mentorship, and today, as First Lady, she has expanded her reach nationwide. She has also pledged resources toward humanitarian causes, tuberculosis containment, IDPs, and higher education infrastructure.
Indeed, Oluremi Tinubu is a different kind of First Lady: selfless, people-focused, and committed to building a brighter, better Nigeria.
Mrs Jumai Ahmadu PhD., Ag. Director Reform Coordination and Service Improvement Department FCTA, and Founder Helpline Social Support Initiative
Annual Governance Report Harps on Steering the Future of AI
Emma Okonji
The International Telecommunications Union (ITU), the United Nations specialised agency for global digital technology development, has released the Annual AI Governance Report for 2025, which captures key insights ahead of next year’s Global Dialogue on AI Governance and consider how technical standards can shape Artificial Intelligence (AI)
for positive global impact.
The report highlights the outcomes of the International AI Standards Exchange, which took place during the AI for Good Global Summit 2025 organised by ITU in Geneva, Switzerland in July this year.
The report, which measured what matters and how to assess AI’s environmental impact, also offered a comprehensive overview of current approaches to evaluating
the environmental impacts of AI systems. The review focuses on identifying which components of AI’s environmental impacts are being measured, evaluating the transparency and methodology soundness of these measuring practices, and determining their relevance and actionability.
Highlighting the findings from academic studies, corporate sustainability initiatives, and emerging environmental tracking
technologies, the report examines measurement methodologies, identifies current limitations, and offers recommendations for key stakeholder groups, such as developers (producers), users (consumers), and policy-makers.
One of the most pressing issues uncovered is the widespread reliance on indirect estimates when assessing energy consumption during the training phase of AI
models. These estimates, according to the report, often lack real-time, empirical measurement.
The report further said important lifecycle stages remained significantly underexplored, adding that reliance on proxies introduces substantial data gaps, impedes accountability, and restricts consumers’ ability to make informed, sustainable choices about AI.
Giving details about the report, ITU Secretary-
General, Doreen BogdanMartin, said: “As the global AI race continues to accelerate, humanity stands at a unique, transformative moment. Our collective challenge is not whether to govern artificial intelligence, but to understand and ensure governance steers AI in the right direction. This is at the heart of ITU’s mission to offer a neutral, global platform for artificial
Emma Okonji
An impact assessment report released by Public First, has revealed how Uber, a ride hailing company, contributed N34 billion to Nigeria’s economy in 2023.
The report was released at the recent Lagos Road Mobility Summit, organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Transport, in partnership with Uber, to advance
dialogue on safer, more inclusive transport.
Themed: ‘Reimagining an Inclusive Road Safety Strategy’, the summit brought together senior government officials, including representatives from the Lagos State Ministry of Transport, the Federal Road Safety Corps, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority and the World Bank’s SSATP team, alongside regulators, global safety
experts, and private sector leaders.
The event also marked the launch of Uber’s Nigeria Economic Impact Report, conducted by Public First, which revealed that Uber contributed an estimated N34 billion to Nigeria’s economy in 2023, with riders enjoying a consumer surplus valued at nearly N500 billion through time, cost, and
convenience savings.
Beyond the figures, the report tells the story of everyday Nigerians – drivers who earn and gain flexibility to support their families, women who rely on Uber for safe journeys home, and communities benefitting from stronger tourism, nightlife, and local business growth.
According to the report, Uber has
become a lifeline for both income and independence for thousands of Nigerians, as drivers using the app earned N6.1 billion more in 2023, with average earnings sitting at 34 per cent higher than their next best alternative. The report also found that flexibility, the freedom to decide when and how to work, carried an additional financial
value of N6.3 billion.
Almost nine in ten drivers (88 per cent) said the flexibility helps them balance their family responsibilities. A driver in Abuja explained: “With Uber, I choose my hours. I can take my children to school, then drive during the day, and still be home in the evening. It gives me control over my life.”
FINANCIAL MATTERS ON THEIR MINDS…
L-R: Group Head, Banking Services, Premium Trust Bank, Tolulope Ogundipe; Vice Chairman, Committee of e-Business Industry Heads (CeBIH)/ Group Head, e-Business, Premium Trust Bank, Abidemi Asunmo; Chairman, CeBIH and Chief Partnership Officer, WEMA Bank Plc, Ajibade LaoluAdewale; Executive Director, Digital & Transaction Banking, Premium Trust Bank, Shina Atilola and Chief Operating Officer, Premium Trust Bank, Cyril Osheku, during the hosting of CeBIH meeting in Lagos… recently
Experts Seek 100% Excise Tax Increase on Tabaco to Boost FG’s Revenue
Eromosele Abiodun
Experts in the financial service sector have called on the federal government to ensure a decisive policy
shift of 100 per cent excise tax increase on tobaco to boost its revenue as well as curb smoking prevalence, with obvious public health consequences.
Currently, Nigeria operates a mixed excise tax system on tobacco, comprising a 30 per cent ad valorem tax on the cost of production, a N84 specific
excise tax per pack of 20 cigarettes, and additional levies on shisha and other tobacco products.
Champion Breweries Plc has projected more than a five-fold increase in revenue and over 10 times growth in profit after tax following the acquisition of Bullet, Nigeria’s No. 1 readyto-drink alcoholic brand.
Speaking at its “Facts Behind the Figures” session on the NGX Nigerian Exchange (NGX) in Lagos, the company said the deal is expected to contribute more than 70 per cent of Champion’s topline and significantly expand the Company’s foreign
currency earnings across 14 African markets.
The Managing Director, Champion Breweries, Dr. Inalegwu Adoga, said, “This is a transformative moment for Champion Breweries. Bullet gives us scale, highmargin growth, and international reach. With
this acquisition, we are evolving from a strong regional brewer into a multi-market, multicategory growth platform with international relevance.”
Champion Breweries’ majority shareholder, enJOYcorp, reinforced the long-term ambition.
Fuelmetrics Introduces Fuel Station Management Solution
Fuelmetrics, the technology company behind the flagship Epump solution, has announced the launch of Epump Always-On, a groundbreaking upgrade designed to ensure pumps at filling stations remain connected at all times.
Speaking on the milestone, Chief Strategy
Officer at Fuelmetrics, Ayodeji Ogundiran, emphasised the company’s legacy of innovation.
According to him, “A decade ago, we pioneered what’s now recognized as IoT forecourt automation. Since then, many blue-chip competitors have been trying to catch up and are still chasing what
we perfected years ago. Now, we are raising the bar again. The industry is shifting, and we are leading that change. The unveiling of Epump Always-On goes beyond technical enhancement; it underscores Fuelmetrics’ mission to deliver smarter, more resilient, and future-ready solutions
for station owners.”
With this launch, Fuelmetrics is changing the narrative in the downstream oil and gas industry, reinforcing Epump’s position as the ideal ally for fuel stations striving for growth, reliability, and operational excellence, Ogundiran said.
Alert MfB, NGO Partner to Boost Nigeria’s WASH Sector
Alert Microfinance Bank (MfB) has reinforced its commitment to Nigeria’s Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector through a strategic partnership with international non-profit organization, Aqua for All.
During a recent media
briefing, Alert MFB revealed that before the partnership, over 20 percent of its Gross Loan Portfolio was already directed toward WASHrelated businesses. The collaboration has now enabled the bank to develop more specialized financial products
tailored to the sector’s evolving needs.
A key innovation under the initiative is the WASH Plus Loan, a fastdisbursing loan product created for short-term WASH projects. With a turnaround time of just 48 hours, the facility is designed for
entrepreneurs who require swift funding access. The existing WASH Loan product also remains available for broader business needs, including the sales of plumbing materials, sanitation products, and related services.
regime not only fuels high tobacco use among young people, but also deprives government of badly needed revenue while allowing multinational corporations to rake in excess profits.
They made the observations at the validation workshop on the Tobacco Excise Tax Simulation (TETSiM) Report convened by Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), in Abuja.
Director of the Research Unit on the Economics of Excisable Products (REEP) at the University of Cape
He said, “This means that for every 10 per cent increase in the price of cigarettes, cigarette demand is expected to decrease by between 4 per cent and 8 per cent. “Young people tend to be more price sensitive than older people, mostly because they have less money to spend.
Stories by Emma Okonji
AI in Nigeria, a leading force in Artificial Intelligence (AI) advocacy and development, has announced the third edition of its flagship annual conference, InnovateAI, where it will champion responsible AI in Africa.
The 2026 conference will be a defining moment in the country’s technological evolution, themed: ‘Responsible AI beyond Innovation’.
According to the organisers, the 2026 edition represents a crucial strategic evolution. As AI becomes more deeply integrated into daily life, this conference will shift its focus from adoption to a deep dive into the foundational principles necessary for sustainable and trustworthy growth.
“In addition to showcasing responsible AI innovations across industries, the conference will feature a series of focused sessions to explore these vital topics: AI Governance in Africa: Establishing a framework for a trusted future. Deepfakes, Fraud & Security Risks: Protecting Nigeria’s Digital Society from Emerging Threats. AI & Financial Services: Building trust in the fight against fraud and ensuring secure transactions. Digital Literacy for All: Preparing citizens for the age of AI through education and empowerment. Responsible AI Innovation: Balancing safety and growth to support Africa’s burgeoning startup scene,” the organisers said in a statement.
Town, South Africa, Corné van Walbeek said the evidence from hundreds of studies worldwide indicates that the price elasticity of demand for cigarettes is between -0.4 and -0.8.
OPERATOR OF THE NNPCL/CHEVRON
1.0 INTRODUCTION:
Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) Operator of NNPCL/CNL Joint Venture, invites interested and prequalified service providers for this tender opportunity for the JV Provision of Expandable Sand Screen (ESS) and Liner Hanger Services at company's operational areas. The proposed award strategy is a single (1) contract award of a five (5) years term with an option of two (2) years extension.
2.0 SCOPE OF WORK:
Contractor will be responsible for the supply and provision of the following:
1. Expandable Sand Screens with required weave screen sizes (base pipe O.D 4.5" & 5.5" and Related Accessories).
2. Qualified Personnel for installation of Expandable Sand Screens and related services (installation and maintenance).
3. Operational (installation and maintenance) of equipment to install Expandable Sand Screens and related Services.
4. Compatible Liner Hanger and Liner Hanger top packers for the sizes of screens provided.
5. Service tools and installation accessories for Liner Hanger and liner top packers.
6. Perform all Services and provide all Equipment, Materials, Products and technically competent personnel to complete Services required to install Expandable Sand Screens and Liner Hanger equipment in JV wells.
7 Office support Personnel located in Areas of Operations, which are required to provide logistical, planning, laboratory and technical support for Services.
8. Maintain locations/areas in Lagos, Escravos, Onne, or Port Harcourt (or as may be designated) with a Base defined.
9 Prepare and submit necessary detailed Technical Reports and other documentation as directed by COMPANY
10 Contractor will supply a Quality Plan outlining procedures to ensure that Company receives equipment that has been properly prepared for utilization. A dedicated QA/QC Personnel will be provided by the contractor to ensure rigorous adherence to Contractor's Quality Plan. Quality Plan will define shop equipment required to makeup and test ESS completion equipment prior to shipment offshore
11. Perform all Services and provide all Equipment and Material to satisfactorily install Expandable Sand Screen and Liner Hanger Equipment in JV wells. Provide engineering support & simulations and prepare Well Completion Equipment prior to loading out.
3.0 MANDATORY TENDER REQUIREMENTS:
A. To be eligible for this tender exercise, interested bidders are required to be pre–qualified and 'live' in the 3.04.15 (Liner Float, Hangers and Running Equipment Services) and 3.04.17 (Well Completion - Services Sand control services, Tubulars and Accessories) category in NipeX Joint Qualification System (NJQS) database. All successfully pre-qualified and 'live' in this category by the bid close date will receive Invitation to Tender (ITT).
B. To determine if you are pre-qualified and to view the product/service category you are listed for: Open www vendors.nipex-ng.com and access NJQS with your log in details. Click on Products/Services tab to view your status and product codes.
C. If you are not listed in this product/service category, and you are registered with Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) to do business for this category, please contact NipeX office at 27b Oyinkan Abayomi Drive, Ikoyi Lagos with your NUPRC certificate as evidence for verification and necessary update
D To initiate the JQS pre-qualification process, please access www.nipexng.com click on services tab followed by NJQS registration.
E. To be eligible, all bidders must comply with the Nigerian Content requirements in the NipeX system.
4.0 NIGERIAN CONTENT REQUIREMENTS:
Chevron Nigeria Limited is committed to the development of the Nigerian Oil and Gas business in observance with the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act 2010 (NOGICD Act) enacted by the Federal Government of Nigeria in April 2010
Pursuant to enactment of the NOGICD Act, the minimum Nigerian Content in any project, service, or product specification to be executed in the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry shall be consistent with the level set in the schedule of the Act and any other target as may be directed by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).
Contractors shall comply with the provisions of the NOGICD Act and all applicable regulations. Bidders that do not meet the Nigerian Content criterion will not be allowed to participate in next Tender Stage
The following are the Nigerian Content requirements bidders are expected to comply with in their technical bid submission.
a. Demonstrate that entity is a Nigerian registered company with greater than 51% Nigerian Shareholding. Submit certified true copies of CAC forms 10, 02 & 07 (or its equivalent; CAC 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, etc.) including company memorandum & article of association and/or evidence of entity's incorporation, shareholding & ownership structure in Nigeria. Tenderer shall provide evidence of registration with the NCDMB NOGIC JQS Tenderers shall provide evidence category 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 Services and Support (SS) demonstrating ownership of in country facility
b Tenderer shall provide evidence of any valid category 1,2,3,4 or 5 Services and Support (SS) NCEC to demonstrate ownership of Expandable Sand Screen and Liner Hanger Services equipment to be deployed in the execution of the work scope
c. Tenderer shall comply with the latest approved version of NCDMB HCD guideline by committing (via aletter of undertaking) to providing Project Specific training, man hour, budget, skill development and understudy plan for Nigerian personnel utilizing OGTAN registered trainer(s) or other approved NCDMB training institution(s).
d. Tenderer shall (via a letter of undertaking utilizing its letter headed paper) commit to: (failure to provide this undertaking letter will constitute a fatal flaw).
e In line with the NOGICD Act, deduct 1% NCDF for every PO to be issued on the contract, and remit same to NCDMB. Tendered shall ensure that the 1% NCDF for all subcontracts must be priced into the commercial submission to be submitted to the Operator
f Complying with the latest approved version of NCDMB HCD guideline to providing Project-specific training, man-hour, budget, skill development and understudy plan for Nigerian personnel utilizing OGTAN registered trainer(s) or other approved NCDMB training institution(s).
5.0 CLOSING DATE:
Only bidders who are pre-qualified and 'live' with NJQS Product/Category 3.04.15 (Liner Float, Hangers and Running Equipment Services) and 3.04.17 (Well Completion - Services Sand control services, Tubulars and Accessories) (JV Provision of Expandable Sand Screen (ESS) and Liner Hanger Services) by 16:00 Hours, October 9, 2025, being the advert close date shall be invited to submit technical bid.
6.0 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
1. Suppliers eligible for this tender opportunity are expected to be prequalified in NJQS under this product/service category
2. The Invitation to Tender (ITT) and any further progression of this tender shall be via NipeX.
3. All costs incurred in preparing and processing NJQS prequalification shall be to the contractor's accounts.
4. This advertisement shall neither be construed as any form of commitment on the part of Chevron Nigeria Limited to award any contract to any company and or associated companies, sub-contractors or agents, nor shall it entitle prequalified companies to make any claims whatsoever, and/or seek any indemnity from Chevron Nigeria Limited and or any of its partners by virtue of such companies having been prequalified in NJQS.
5. The tendering process shall be the NNPCL contracting process requiring prequalified companies to submit technical tenders first. Following a technical review, only technically and financially qualified contractors will be requested to submit commercial tenders.
6. Chevron Nigeria Limited will communicate only with authorized officers of the pre-qualifying companies and NOT through individuals or Agents.
Policy makers in the country have been advised to tap into full spectrum of diaspora potential beyond remittances alone.
A UK-based Nigerian international digital policy and communications practitioner, Olaide ArogundadeAbdulkabir, argued that diaspora’s human capital, cultural influence, and intellectual resources remain crucial to driving national progress.
Arogundade-Abdulkabir in a recent study, titled: ‘Nigeria’s Diaspora: Beyond Financial Contributions’, called for a paradigm shift in how the country engages its citizens abroad.
“Living abroad exposes
APM
Nigerians to functioning systems, transformative innovations, and global networks. These experiences build resilience and strategic thinking—skills that are critical for governance, policymaking, and public service,” she said.
She warned that reducing diaspora contributions to financial inflows alone risks sidelining a powerful force for national development. She thus advocated for a structured inclusion of diaspora professionals in shaping Nigeria’s growth agenda.
“If Nigeria is genuinely committed to harnessing this potential, the path forward is clear: Establish advisory roles for diaspora representatives within government, involve us in policy design, and support
diaspora-led initiatives that uplift communities at home.”
Her call came amid growing recognition of the diaspora’s role in reshaping Nigeria’s global image.
“From Afrobeat concerts in Berlin to Nollywood screenings in New York, cultural exports have become tools of soft power, challenging outdated stereotypes and fostering international goodwill. Our influence extends far beyond boardrooms and parliaments. Every plate of Jollof shared in London or Ewa Agoyin served in Birmingham is an act of cultural diplomacy”, she said.
She was confident that a deliberate engagement with the diaspora could unlock new growth sectors, attract foreign partnerships, and reverse brain drain.
Terminals Signs MOU With NPA on Roadmap for Electrification
West Africa Container Terminal (WACT)-APM Terminals Nigeria and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), have agreed to collaborate to advance decarbonisation efforts within the Nigeria’s port and transportation ecosystem.
That became reality Monday in New York, when the parties signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to establish the framework to pursue a roadmap to electrify containerised freight in accordance with the policies of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in the country.
“We believe that Nigeria is ideally situated to lead West Africa’s transition to low-
carbon logistics by electrifying its container transport sector,” said Frederik Klinke, CEO of APM Terminals Nigeria at the signing ceremony. “Nigeria is Africa’s largest economy and trade hub, and our research shows us that the country can leapfrog fossil-fuel infrastructure by adopting proven electric technologies. Therefore, we are very optimistic about our joint plans to start shaping the phased roadmap of a electrified future for container logistics,” Frederik Klinke, stated at the event at the Dutch Consulate in New York during the week of the Global African Business Initiative.
Reacting to the MOU-
signing, the Managing Director of NPA, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho said that: “By this development, the Onne Port will be the first green port in Nigeria and thereby promoting the decarbonisation efforts within the transportation ecosystem. This will also make Nigerian ports the leader on the continent in terms of sustainable port operations.”
While congratulating the APM Terminals for the collaboration, which will be wholly funded by APM Terminals to the tune of $60 million, he said that he is hopeful that this would be the mode of African countries to copy.
ProvidusBank Unveils ASPAMDA Branch to Deepen Support for SMEs
ProvidusBank has officially opened its ASPAMDA Branch in Lagos, signalling a stronger commitment to providing tailor-made financial solutions for Nigeria’s trading and SME community.
Delivering his remarks, Executive Director of ProvidusBank, Mr. Deoye Ojuroye, described the new branch as a continuation of the Bank’s vision to fuel enterprise and create value for businesses: “At ProvidusBank, our vision has always been to help businesses
prosper. Partnering with the ASPAMDA community has been both impactful and rewarding. We are proud to extend our services closer to where business happens, ensuring that traders and entrepreneurs have access to world-class banking solutions that support their growth ambitions.”
The Chairman of ASPAMDA, Ngozi Emechebe, commended ProvidusBank for its consistent engagement with the trading community and lauded the Bank’s
customer-centric approach:
“This beautiful branch is not just a building—it is a testament to ProvidusBank’s sincerity in supporting traders and businesses. We are truly grateful for this partnership and for a Bank that continues to demonstrate that it understands our needs.”
The ASPAMDA Branch will serve as a one-stop centre for financial services, ranging from innovative digital platforms and SME-focused credit facilities to personalized advisory solutions.
Noor Takaful Pays over N11bn Claims, Distributes N404m Surplus
Ebere Nwoji
Noor Takaful Insurance
Limited, the pioneer composite Takaful insurance firm in Nigeria, said it recently distributed a total of N404,191,500.00 as surplus to participants who did not make claims on their insurance during the 2023 financial year.
The surplus distribution was announced during the 2023 Surplus distribution and Claims celebration ceremony for participants in Lagos.
It was announced that over 1,000 participants would be entitled to over N400 million as surplus. A total of 15 participants, including individuals, financial institutions, and private and public organisations, received surplus payments at the event.
(Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic
Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).
L-R; Regional Managing Director, Africa and Europe Igor van den Essen; Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho and CEO, APM Terminals Nigeria, Frederik Klinke during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in New York... recently
Stock Market Down N135.13bn on Profit-taking in MTN, 28 Others
Kayode Tokede
The Nigerian stock market yesterday recorded its third consecutive loss, as sell pressure on MTN Nigeria Communications (MTNN) and 28 others dragged the market capitalisation down by N135.13 billion.
The Nigerian Exchange Limited All Share Index (NGX ASI) depreciated by 213.50 basis points or 0.15 per cent to close at 140,716.10 basis points from 140,929.60 basis points with the Monthto-Date and Year-to-Date returns settled lower at +0.3per cent and +36.7per cent, respectively.
Consequently, the market capitalization lost N135.13 billion to close at N89.063 trillion from N89.199 trillion it closed for trading the previous day.
Sectoral performance was mixed as the NGX Insurance Index (-0.3 per cent) and NGX Oil & Gas Index (-0.1 per cent) while the NGX Banking
index (+1.3 per cent), NGX Consumer Goods Index (+0.6 per cent), and NGX Industrial Goods index (+0.3 per cent) advanced.
Investor sentiment was predominantly bearish, as 29 stocks declined while 23 gained. Dangote Sugar Refinery recorded the highest price gain of 10 per cent to
close at N59.40, while MeCure Industries followed with a gain of 9.95 per cent to close at N23.75, per share.
Cornerstone Insurance and Secure Electronic Technology rose by 8.80 per cent each to close at N6.48 and 81 kobo respectively, UPDC Real Estate Investment Trust increased by 5.00 per cent to close at N7.35, per share.
On the other hand, Deap Capital Management & Trust led the losers’ chart by 9.42 per cent to close at N1.73, per share. Legend Internet followed with a decline of 9.26 per cent to close at N4.90, while Wapic Insurance declined by 8.75 per cent to close at N2.92, per share.
PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF SEPTEMBER/24/25
We Can’t Stop at Almost: How the Goalkeepers are Charting the Roadmap for a Healthier Future
At a time when progress in global child health is slipping, world leaders, innovators, and changemakers are being called upon to confront a stark reality and a powerful opportunity. At the just concluded Goalkeepers 2025 in New York, over 1,000 government, community, philanthropy, and private-sector leaders gathered under the theme “We Can’t Stop at Almost” to spotlight what it will take to protect hard-won gains and unlock the next wave of breakthroughs for the world’s children. Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that the message was urgent but hopeful: we could be the generation that ends preventable child deaths and consigns some of the deadliest diseases to history by 2045
What if we could be the generation that ends preventable child deaths? This pertinent question was the crux of the just concluded 2025 Goalkeepers annual event in New York where a roomful of innovators, private sector leaders, global changemakers, champions and even government officials gathered to accelerate the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The message was loud- Progress in child health is slipping, and the stakes have never been higher. However, there is hope- the opportunity to change course together is within reach and at the Goalkeepers, that urgency met action.
Themed “We Can’t Stop at Almost”, the different conversations harped on what it will take to protect past progress and unlock the next wave of breakthroughs for the world’s children.
A Future Hanging in the Balance
Standing before more than global leaders at this year’s Goalkeepers event in New York, Bill Gates delivered a message as stark as it was hopeful: the future of millions of children hangs in the balance, and humanity must decide whether to rise to the moment or retreat in the face of crisis.
“Humanity is at a crossroads. With millions of children’s lives on the line, global leaders have a once-in-a-generation chance to do something extraordinary,” Gates said, his words echoing through the packed hall. “The choices they make now—whether to go forward with proposed steep cuts to health aid or to give the world’s children the chance they deserve to live a healthy life—will determine what kind of future we leave the next generation.”
A Funding Crisis
Since 2000, global cooperation has halved child mortality—from 10 million deaths each year to fewer than five million. Vaccines, primary health care, and targeted investments in HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria turned what once seemed impossible into one of humanity’s greatest achievements.
Now, that progress is in jeopardy. According to the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), global development assistance for health (DAH) fell by 21 per cent between 2024 and 2025, plunging to its lowest point in 15 years. The decline reflects donor nations tightening budgets amid domestic challenges, high debt burdens, and ageing populations.
“If these cuts hold, we could see decades of progress unravel,” Gates warned. “What’s happening to the health of the world’s children is worse than most people realize, but our long-term prospects are better than most people can imagine.”
With key funding decisions looming before the end of the year, Gates pressed leaders to consider the stakes. “An entire generation is alive today thanks to the world’s generosity, smart investments, and the hard work of
governments and Global Fund partners. Now, we must go further so the next generation grows up in a world where no child dies from preventable causes.”
A New Pledge
At the heart of his appeal was a significant financial commitment. The Gates Foundation announced a pledge of $912 million to the Global Fund’s 2026–2028 replenishment cycle. Since its creation in 2002, the Global Fund has saved more than 70 million lives and reduced deaths from AIDS, TB, and malaria by over 60%. Every dollar invested, studies show, generates an estimated $19 in health and economic returns.
“This is one of the most effective lifesaving initiatives of the 21st century,” Gates noted. “But it needs strong backing. Governments, philanthropists, and the private sector must step forward in these next weeks and months. Millions of lives depend on it.”
The foundation’s latest pledge brings its total commitment to the Global Fund to nearly $5 billion, making it one of its largest single investments.
The replenishment drive, co-hosted by South Africa and the United Kingdom, is widely seen as a litmus test for whether global leaders still have the political will to prioritise health in an era of rising nationalism and tightening budgets.
The Roadmap to a Healthier Future
“We have a roadmap for saving millions of children and making some of the deadliest childhood diseases history by 2045,” Gates asserted. “I’m urging world leaders to invest in the health of all people, especially children, to deliver this future.”
Results from work by the Gates Foundation and the IHME indicate that sustaining global investments in child health and scaling lifesaving innovations could cut child deaths in half again over the next 20 years.
While the funding crisis loomed large, Gates and his foundation were equally focused on solutions. Alongside the IHME, the Gates Foundation has mapped out a vision for halving child deaths again by 2045. Achieving this, Gates argued, requires a combination of sustained investment in proven tools and bold bets on new science.
The roadmap centres on three pillars: Strengthening proven initiatives such as the Global Fund and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, ensuring countries can access vaccines, medicines, and treatments while building towards sustainability and self-reliance.
The second roadmap was on Prioritising primary health care systems that detect and treat childhood illnesses early, even when budgets are strained; and finally,Scaling breakthrough innovations, from new malaria-fighting technologies that block parasites in mosquitoes to single-dose treatments, long-acting HIV prevention drugs, maternal vaccines against RSV and GBS, and the use of artificial intelligence to deliver costeffective care more efficiently.
Honouring Champions of Change
Even amid the warnings, Goalkeepers 2025 was also a celebration of those pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Spain’s Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, received the prestigious Global Goalkeeper Award for expanding Spain’s contributions to global health initiatives, including a 12% increase to the Global
Fund and a 30% increase to Gavi.
The foundation also recognised 10 Goalkeepers Champions, from India’s pioneering community health doctors Abhay and Rani Bang, to Nigerian actress Osas Ighodaro, who is driving awareness around malaria, and global advocates like David Beckham, Toni Garrn, and John Green. Each honouree embodied the event’s theme: “We Can’t Stop at Almost.”
“Every year, Goalkeepers unites changemakers to inspire and push one another forward,” said Dawda Jobarteh, deputy director of the Goalkeepers campaign. “Together, we can reimagine a future without preventable child deaths and unlock the next wave of breakthroughs for the world’s children.”
Indeed, We Can’t Stop at Almost
One key point that resonated throughout was the theme “We Can’t Stop at Almost” and this was constantly re-echoed by both hosts- singer, songwriter, and composer Jon Batiste, who returned as musical curator for the second year with the PS22 elementary school choir, and actress and director Olivia Wilde. Together, they urged the audience to remember that while the world has made progress, “we can’t stop at almost,” which was the event’s theme.
Community champions, scientists, health workers, faith leaders, and activists from Bangladesh, Indonesia, Kenya, Madagascar, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Uganda, and the United States shared powerful stories of resilience and innovation. Several showcased breakthrough technologies already saving lives and moving the world closer to eradicating deadly diseases.
“Every year, Goalkeepers unites changemakers to inspire and push one another forward,” said Dawda Jobarteh, deputy director of the foundation’s Goalkeepers campaign. “Together, we can reimagine a future without preventable child deaths and unlock the next wave of breakthroughs for the world’s children.”
Event session presenters included Rick Warren, pastor and author; El Hadji Mansour Sy, co-president of World Council of Religions for Peace; Ingrid Silva, ballet dancer and activist; Krista Tippett, journalist and author; Latif Nasser, co-host of “Radiolab”; and Budi Gunadi Sadikin, Indonesia’s minister of health.
The event pulsed with energy beyond the speeches as Breakthrough technologies already saving lives in places like Kenya, Indonesia, and Nigeria were showcased alongside deeply personal stories of resilience and innovation while the faith leaders, artists, and health ministers joined forces on stage, underscoring the idea that saving children’s lives is not merely a health agenda but a moral imperative.
NOTE:
Bill Gates at the 2025 Goalkeepers in New York
Charles Ogbu Goofed on Governor Mbah’s Govt
By Louis Achi
Democracy would lose its defining egalitarianism if it foreclosed the free expression of viewpoints by its adherents, including often unreasoned perspectives by forces that seek to diminish and divide. Against this backdrop, public communicators who through discipline and intellectual honesty have achieved that delicate, firm balance between viewpoints that enlighten and lift society and contrived commentary that distorts, diminishes and smears, should be appreciated – and the later confronted.
One such dodgy communicator is Mr. Charles Ogbu, the focus of this analysis. He has unwittingly presented himself as a sponsored opposition sniper, dressed up in the borrowed robe of an activist and public affairs commentator. Recently, Ogbu curiously called out Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State. In his disingenuous, scurrilous media writeup, he dismissed the 28-month transformational governance trajectory of the current state administration as a non-starter.
Cut to the bone, Ogbu has simply deliberately weaponized disinformation. Warming up to his contrived demolition project, Ogbu claims that Governor Peter Mbah’s govt “thrives on media hype and propaganda with very little substance,” an absolute position that even in the precision field of physics is an anathema. By not conceding even a genuine developmental thread to the 28-month-old administration immediately raises legitimate suspicions that this fellow is an unimaginative, paid undertaker.
Ogbu condescendingly paints a jaundiced picture of what he alleges the state chief executive has achieved. His words: “Do some roads in the city centre, paint and beautify most of the junctions and roundabouts and announce high-sounding projects like floating an Airline, building smart school in every ward etc.” Haba! Obgu then lands what he probably considers his bitter magnum opus: “What is happening in Enugwu State is asset stripping. And the people are none the wiser.”
Before quickly dealing with Ogbu’s surprisingly ignorant, dismissive references to the Enugu Air and smart schools project, very critical flagship development projects the governor has birthed, it will be germane to educate him on what these really mean to Enugu State and South Eastern Nigeria at large.
Enugu Air, envisioned by Governor Mbah is on a bold mission to connect the Southeast to the world, elevate regional pride, and redefine the flying experience in Nigeria and Africa. Its goal is simple yet ambitious: to become the leading regional airline in Africa and a strategic aviation hub in Nigeria.
Headquartered in the state capital, Enugu Air is a symbol of progress, designed to reflect the dignity, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit of the Southeast. From seamless service to world-class comfort, the airline promises a travel experience that’s not only reliable and luxurious but deeply rooted in the values and beauty of its people. It celebrates excellence, sustainability, and culture.
Meanwhile, the Smart Green Schools project the governor is birthing are not just school blocks, but a sophisticated factory for Enugu’s future workforce, innovators, and leaders. The Ogbus of this world, with their 12th Century lens, can never make sense of such 21st Century schools.
During the 2025 Children’s Day celebration at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu, themed ‘Children: Our Future, Our Responsibility.’ Governor Mbah succinctly captured the essence of his education vision, especially the Smart Green Schools. His words, “That is why, from the very beginning of this administration, we put you at the very heart of our agenda. We are building 260 Smart Green Schools, one in every political ward across our great state.
“These are not just schools; they are the schools of the future - powered by solar energy, equipped with digital smart boards, robotics labs, virtual reality, artificial intelligence, ICT centers, multimedia libraries, science labs, and smart farms.” There is more.
At the time of writing this analysis, news broke in the traditional and new media platforms that Governor Mbah has announced Enugu’s plan to harness coal resources for electricity generation, targeting a 1,000MW power output. He said coal deposits in the state had about 0.5 sulphuric content, stressing that he was counting on technology to make the impact of coal utilisation on the environment minimal.
The governor revealed this strategic plan on Thursday in Lagos as a guest of the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) “Meet The Governor Series,” where he presented a compelling business case for investment in Enugu State. This is leadership and progressive disruption at its best. No development specialist would fault the essence of providing power to a people in a hurry for development.
Unrelenting in his progressively disruptive governance trajectory, Governor Mbah has revived Nigergas after 30 years of abandonment, accurately asserting the oxygen plant will boost Enugu’s economy. Barely a month ago, there was uproarious celebrations in Enugu as Governor Mbah unveiled the reconstructed iconic Hotel Presidential also abandoned some thirty years ago.
The governor emotionally described the revived edifice established 62 years ago by
the administration of Dr. Michael Okpara, the then Premier of Eastern Region, as “a homecoming for history.” On the health, security, agricultural, education, transportation, infrastructure development fronts, similar compelling scripts are being actualized to the discomfiture of extremely negative opponents.
Fishing for ammunition with which to smear the current administration of Enugu State, Ogbu dives into a territory he lacks the ken to accurately dissect – governance financing. He claims that the state governor has received N923 billion in federal allocations from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) within his tenure period and queries how the funds were used.
He further alleges the governor has borrowed N96.7 billion in domestic debt increasing the state domestic debt profile from N140.7 billion to N237.4 billion and noted the state generated approximately N384.5 billion in IGR.
Borrowing for development is not inherently wrong; it can be a necessary tool for developing states to fund infrastructure, social programs, and economic growth. However, it becomes wrong or problematic when debt is managed poorly, used for unproductive purposes, or leads to unsustainable levels of debt, which can threaten a state’s economic stability and progress.Prudent debt management, transparency, and targeted investments in productive sectors are crucial to ensure that borrowing supports, rather than hinders, sustainable development. Governor Mbah, an accomplished, disciplined industrialist and entrepreneur has certainly not crossed the line in debt accumulation and needs pretty little tutelage on this.
For context, Nigeria’s debt has surged significantly in recent quarters, climbing from N49.85 trillion before the 2023 general elections to N134.30 trillion by the end of the first half of 2024. Today, it is almost N150 trillion. This sharp increase primarily reflects the impact of policy-induced Naira depreciation, aggressive government borrowing, and rising
borrowing costs.
According to data sourced from the Debt Management Office (DMO), Africa’s fourth largest economy has as much as N63 trillion ($43 billion) as its foreign debt, accounting for 47 percent of the total debt stock as at Q2 2024. The federal government took the lion share, borrowing approximately N56 trillion while the 36 states plus the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) had N7 trillion as their external debt.
It is only a blind or willfully unobjective observer that will cavalierly write off the Enugu administration for nonperformance. And is what Ogbu has done.
According to the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), the five South-East governors (inclusive of their LGAs), between January and June 2025, have collectively received over N650.02 billion with Imo receiving the highest at N151.96 billion and Ebonyi the lowest at N99.63 billion. A breakdown shows: Imo - N151.96bn; Anambra - N150.03bn; Abia - N125.18bn; Enugu - N123.21bn and Ebonyi - N99.63bn –totaling N650.02 billion. FAAC data is provided statutorily by the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF), and reported by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
A comparative analysis will show that Enugu State with a humble N123.21bn received within this specific period is far ahead of its peers, development wise. The candid testimonies of lawyers (some visiting the South East for the first time who attended the recent NBA Conference in Enugu speaks to the fundamental changes that have berthed in Enugu under the watch of Governor Mbah.
It could be recalled that peering into the future of his beloved homeland, Rahul Rajiv Ghandi, a member of the Indian National Congress, shared a succinct insight that captured his deep passion for developing India. His words: “A rising tide doesn’t raise people who don’t have a boat. We have to build the boat for them. We have to give them the basic infrastructure to rise with the tide.”
Just two years younger than Rahul Rajiv Ghandi but sharing the same compelling developmental philosophy, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has vowed to change the development trajectory of his state by building a boat for his people because “a rising tide doesn’t raise people who don’t have a boat.”
In a sternly calculated move to give teeth to his vision of transforming Enugu State and simultaneously influencing the development trajectory of the South East region, as Michael Okpara did for the defunct Eastern Region, Governor Mbah, just within two years on the saddle, has considerably externalized his development vision. And this is measurable by any development metrics.
Governor Mbah has considerably impacted his state and certainly would not brook a dodgy, skulking paid sniper who wants to torpedo his boat project being carefully constructed to lift his Enugu people – when the tide comes.
According to the renowned AustrianAmerican management sage Peter Drucker, “The greatest danger in times of turbulence is not the turbulence - it is to act with yesterday’s logic.” Governor Mbah has simply refused to act with yesterday’s logic. This trajectory, perhaps not surprisingly, has drawn recognition and appreciation from many, including prominent watchdogs of society.
Governor Mbah
Gamin G Week
Edited by nseobonG okon-ekonG |
Petition Urges Senate to Restrict Central Gaming Bill to FCT Only
Iyke Bede writes that a petition by the Federation of States Gaming Regulators of Nigeria (FSGRN) urges the Nigerian Senate to reject the Central Gaming Bill because its proposed functions will law reduce state control of lottery activities and undermine fiscal federalism
For the FSGRN, the concern is not only constitutional but also financial. States currently licence, regulate, and tax gaming operators as part of their internally generated revenue. If the Central Gaming Bill becomes law, they argue, these functions would be taken over by the federal government, reducing state control and undermining fiscal federalism.
State regulators have raised concerns over the Central Gaming Bill (HB.2062), a legislation recently passed by the House of Representatives. The bill proposes to repeal the National Lottery Act No. 7 of 2005 and the National Lottery (Amendment) Act No. 6 of 2017, replacing them with a single framework to regulate gaming across the country.
The Federation of State Gaming Regulators of Nigeria (FSGRN) has asked the Senate not to approve the bill. In a petition addressed to
Senate President Godswill Obot Akpabio, the group argued that the National Assembly’s lawmaking powers in this area extend only to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Any attempt to extend such powers to the states, they said, would be unconstitutional and inconsistent with Nigeria’s federal structure.
The petition is backed by the Supreme Court’s judgment of November 22, 2024, in Attorney
General of Lagos State & Ors v. Attorney General of the Federation, National Assembly & Ors (SC.1/2008).
In that case, the Court ruled that lotteries, betting, and gaming are residual matters under the 1999 Constitution, meaning they are reserved for state legislatures to regulate. The ruling affirmed that the National Assembly may only regulate such activities in the FCT.
For the FSGRN, the concern is
not only constitutional but also financial. States currently license, regulate, and tax gaming operators as part of their internally generated revenue. If the Central Gaming Bill becomes law, they argue, these functions would be taken over by the federal government, reducing state control and undermining fiscal federalism.
The petition also responds to arguments raised by federal lawmakers. Supporters of the bill have claimed that online gaming qualifies as interstate commerce, which falls under the Exclusive Legislative List. They relied on Item 62, which covers trade and commerce, to justify a central law.
The Supreme Court, however, rejected this position in its 2024 judgment. On pages 59 to 63, the court stated clearly that the use of online platforms does not alter the constitutional division of powers. “Lotteries and gaming activities, while generating revenue, cannot be regulated by the provisions of an act of the National Assembly,” the court declared.
Enugu Gaming Commission Backs Opposition against Central Gaming Commission Bill
nseobong okon-ekong
The Enugu State Gaming and Lotto Commission (ESGC) has thrown its full support behind the Federation of State Gaming Regulators of Nigeria (FSGRN) in rejecting the proposed Central Gaming Bill (HB.2062).
The commission stresses that the Bill contradicts the 1999 Constitution and the Supreme Court judgment of November 2024, which reaffirmed lotteries and gaming as residual matters reserved exclusively for state governments.
ESGC’s position was made known in a statement issued by the agency’s Public Relations Officer, Nwanneka Udeh, in Enugu on Tuesday.
“The Central Gaming Bill is unconstitutional and a direct encroachment on state powers. Enugu State has invested in building a credible regulatory system for licensing, taxation, and responsible gaming oversight. Any attempt to
centralise gaming regulation would undermine state sovereignty and deprive us of critical revenues,” the Executive Secretary/CEO of ESGC, Prince Arinze Arum, said.
Throwing light on ESGC’s opposition to the Bill, the statement added, “The Supreme Court has confirmed that lotteries and gaming fall under state legislative
competence, not the National Assembly. Centralising regulation would strip states of vital internally generated revenue streams.
“The Bill undermines Nigeria’s federal structure and fiscal federalism.
The National Assembly’s role in gaming should be limited to the Federal Capital Territory only. The Enugu State Gaming Commission stands with other state regulators in defending the constitutional order.
Our position is clear—lotteries and gaming belong under state jurisdiction, and the Senate must reject this unconstitutional Bill.”
a kpabio
b oladuro
Town
hall MeeTing of The nigeria STaTe level arT iMPaCT
Survey...
L-R: Lagos State AIDS Program Coordinator, Dr. Oladipupo Fisher; Project Director APIN-PHIS3 Prject, Dr. Dare Onimode; Strategic Information and Data Management Specialists, Health Assistance Office of the Department of State US Embassy, Dr. Onifade Bodunde; Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye; Deputy Director, Epidemiology and Strategic Information (USCDC), Dr. Ibrahim Dalhatu and the Director Disease Control, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Victoria Egunjobi, at the Lagos State Town hall Meeting of the Nigeria State Level ART IMPACT Survey held at Ikeja, Lagos on Tuesday
FG Targets Lower Logistics Costs, Increased Investment with New Marine and Blue Economic Policy
NRC, Pi-CNG: No economy grows without efficient transport systems
The federal government, through the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, has unveiled a new National Marine and Blue Economic Policy designed to cut logistics costs, boost trade competitive- ness, and attract private sector
investment into the transport and maritime sectors.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, disclosed this while delivering a keynote address at the 2025 Nigeria Transport Sector Annual Summit organised by the Transport Correspondents Association
of Nigeria (TCAN) in Lagos yesterday.
The minister, represented by the Director, Maritime Services Department of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Mercy Iloro, explained the policy provides a framework for seamless intermodal integra-
tion across road, rail, barge, and pipeline channels, aimed at transforming Nigeria into a logistics hub for West and Central Africa.
According to him, “By lowering the cost of doing business, improving turn- around times, and creating an enabling environment
LASG to Property Owners: Perfect Your Papers or Risk Forfeiture, Demolition
Segun James
Lagos State Government has warned property owners that they risked demolition or losing their property to the state if they did not perfect their permits.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Olumide Oluyinka, who made the disclosure during a press briefing at Alausa, Ikeja, warned that any structure without approval from the state government was at risk of being demolished.
He added that the govern- ment was engaging the public to enlighten them on the need
to obtain planning permit for proper documentation.
He disclosed further that the state government recorded 12,000 approvals in 2024, stating that with the growing population and buildings in the state, the appropriate figure should be in the range of 40,000 to 45,000 approval within a year.
Oluyinka said, “On Monday, we had a debate session with the children. We are having a press briefing today and Friday, we will have an invite for the stakeholders whereby professionals in the field of built environment, from town plan- ners to architects to engineers,
to builders, surveyors, and by extension, estate developers because they are very, very important stakeholders to us in this sector.
“And the whole idea is for us to sit down together and jointly examine what are the challenges. A lot of people, including market women, the majority of them are not yet aware of the importance of planning permit. So, those are the reasons why we decided to engage in these stakeholders meeting for the whole of this week.
The commissioner added, “As at last year we recorded 12,000 approvals for planning
President Bola Tinubu has felicitated pro-democracy activ- ist and celebrated columnist, Dr. Femi Orebe, on his 80th birthday on September 24, 2025. Over the last three decades, Dr. Orebe has written extensively on Nigerian and international politics and issues.
The President, in a press release issued on Wednesday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, acknowledged Orebe’s incisive articles and regular interventions in public affairs, which have impacted many and helped to shape public policies.
Describing him as an ally and brother, President
at 80
Tinubu also highlighted Orebe’s contributions to the knowledge world through his book “Simply A Citizen Journalist,” which is due for public presentation soon.
“I have followed Dr. Orebe’s columns and informed commentaries over the years, first in the defunct Comet newspapers and later in The Nation.
permit. We should be talking about something like in the middle of 40,000 to 45,000 which means we are still below the average mark.
“And that’s why we decided that it is important for us to continuously engage the mem- bers of the public and to, as a way of addressing the projects identified,
for private capital, we are positioning Nigeria as a preferred logistics destination in Africa.”
He highlighted key inter- ventions already underway, in- cluding the operationalisation of the Lagos–Ibadan standard gauge rail line for port cargo evacuation, expansion of barge operations at Lagos and Onne ports, completion of the Apapa–Oshodi expressway, and the inauguration of the 27km Lekki Port Access Road.
Oyetola also pointed to the development of inland dry ports in Ibadan, Kaduna, Kano, and Funtua to ease pressure on seaports and support regional economies, stressing that the success of the reforms depends on col- laboration among shipping lines, terminal operators, freight forwarders, investors, and regulators, and that Nigeria must adopt digital, green, and climate-resilient
Court Restrains
An Edo State High Court has restrained Jiangsu Communication Clean Energy Technology Company Limited (CCETC) from gaining access to Ossiomo Power and Infrastructure Company Limited pending the hearing and determination of motion on notice.
Justice Mary Itsueli, vacation judge, gave the restraining order in an ex-parte motion filed before the Court by Counsel to Ossiomo Power, Emmanuel Usoh.
In a related development, the ownership dispute between the Ossiomo Power and Infrastructure Company Limited and the Chinese firm, the Jiangsu Communication Clean Energy Technology Company Limited (CCETC) have headed to the Singapore International Centre for arbitration on the dispute between both partners.
This was confirmed on Wednesday by Counsel to Ossiomo Power, Emmanuel Usoh in a press statement in Benin City.
Both firms entered a joint venture for the establishment
logistics solutions to remain competitiveMeanwhile,globally. the Managing Director of the Nigerian Rail- way Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, at the summit, stated that transportation is more than just roads, bridges, railways, ports, or airports, adding that transportation is the bloodstream of a modern economy. “It is the invisible infrastructure that connects production with consumption, farmers with markets, manufacturers with distributors, exporters with global trade, and citizens with“Withoutopportunity.efficient transport systems, economic growth be- comes stunted and gradually stalled. Without a dynamic transportation value chain, competitiveness weakens. But with it, industries flourish, jobs multiply, exports thrive, and national development accelerates,” he said.
of the CCETC Ossiomo Power Company (COPC) through which the first Independent Power Plant (IPP) was constructed at Ologbo, IkpobaOkha local government area. Meanwhile, in the suit marked B/242/2025, Ossiomo Investment Limited, Ossiomo Power and Infrastructure Company Limited, Ossiomo Offsites and Utility Limited, Quadrant Gas Development Company Limited are the claimants while Jiangsu Communication Clean Energy Technology Company Limited (CCETC) stand as defendant.
adibe emenyonu in Benin City
Sunday okobi
Launch of airteL africa foundation...
L–R: Vice President, Corporate Communications & CSR, Airtel Africa, Emeka Oparah; Chairman, Airtel Africa Foundation, Dr.
Femi Adeniran, during the world press conference to announce the
and Director, Corporate Communications &
Lagos, FG Partner on HIV Epidemic Survey
Targets 11,397 residents across 20 LGAs in Lagos State
Segun James
As part of efforts to verify the number of persons living with AIDS/HIV in Lagos State, the state government, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health, through the National AIDS and STIs Control Programme (NASCP), is implementing a survey in the 57 council areas across the state.
The project is being undertaken along with national and international partners, including APIN-PHIS3 Project, PEPFAR, US CDC, NACA and other stakeholders in the Nigeria State-Level Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) Impact Survey (AIS) in Lagos.
At a town hall meeting held at Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, brought together government officials, development partners, health experts, and community leaders under the theme, “Every Step Counts: Towards an HIV-Free Nigeria.”
The survey, which will cover 205 Enumeration Areas, 6,150 households, and approximately
11,397 participants across the 20 local government areas of Lagos State, sought to estimate HIV treatment coverage and viral load suppression among adults aged 15–64 years.
Declaring the meeting open, Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, emphasised the importance of the exercise in strengthening evidence-based planning for HIV response.
“This is an impact survey that will assess HIV prevalence, treatment coverage, and viral load suppression among adults in Lagos,” Ogboye said. “We count on the cooperation of communities, security agencies, and field workers to make it successful,” he added.
He urged field workers to handle their tasks diligently, stating, “Even though you are one individual in one community, the results you generate will shape national health planning. The success of this survey depends on every one of us.”
Deputy Director, Epidemiol-
ogy and Strategic Information at the U.S. CDC, Dr. Ibrahim Dalhatu, described the initiative as a people-centred activity, despite its scientific basis.
“This is ultimately about people - the same people who will be engaged and who will benefit from the exercise,” Dalhatu said, adding, “The outcomes will guide important health decisions on HIV and
other diseases for Lagos and Nigeria.”
He reaffirmed CDC’s commitment to technical support, stressing that stakeholders must facilitate access for field workers and ensure community acceptance to guarantee credible results.
Representing National Coordinator of NASCP, Dr. Adebola Bashorun, Deputy
Director, Prevention at NASCP, Dr. Chioma Ukanwa, described the AIS as a globally recognised exercise vital to epidemic control.
“The survey will reach homes, communities and local governments, providing a true picture of the HIV situation,” Ukanwa stated.
He said, “We need reliable data to make informed decisions and improve healthcare outcomes.”
Ukanwa urged community leaders to sensitise members, stressing that cooperation with data collectors will determine the success of the survey.
Director, Research Monitoring and Evaluation at NACA, Mr. Francis Agbo, said the survey provided an opportunity to track progress towards HIV epidemic control in Lagos.
UNICEF Expert Calls for Stronger Stakeholder Action to End Female Genital Mutilation in Nigeria by 2030
James Sowole and funmi ogundare
A Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Development Expert with UNICEF, Aderonke Olutayo, yesterday, called for stronger coordination and collaboration among stakeholders to eliminate the harmful practice of FGM in Nigeria by 2030.
Speaking at a two-day
Over 150 Died from Accident in Construction Sector in 2024, Says Faleye
onyebuchi ezigbo in Abuja
The Managing Director of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund, Barrister Oluwaseun Faleye, has said that more than 150 accident-related deaths were recorded in construction sites in Nigeria in 2024.
A statement signed by the Deputy General Manager Corporate Affairs Alex Mede, quoted the MD as having said that the country is recording an average of 50-70 major construction accidents annually.
Faleye spoke while deliver-
ing his keynote address as the special guest of honour at the 69th Annual General Meeting of the Federation of Construction Industry in Abuja, Wednesday. “It is a sobering reality that Nigeria experiences an average of 50-70 major construction accidents annually, including building collapses, falls, and machinery-related injuries. The Nigerian Safety Commission reported over 150 fatalities linked to construction site accidents last year alone,” he lamented.
The NSITF boss said such incidents highlight the truth of prevention is better than cure, and went on to proffer measures towards prevention saying “Strengthening health and safety protocols is crucial.”
According to him, “this involves rigorous safety audits, compliance with standards, and continuous capacity building to protect workers at all times. A proactive safety culture - where risks are identified and mitigated early - is essential to preventing tragedies before they occur.”
media dialogue in Edo State organised by the Oyo State Ministry of Information and Orientation in partnership with UNICEF, Olutayo stressed the involvement of men and boys is crucial in driving change, particularly in communities where FGM is most prevalent.
She described FGM as a deep-rooted cultural and traditional practice that continues to endanger the health and rights of girls and women. According
to her, survivors often face shame and denial, while lacking access to psychosocial support and healthcare.
“In many communities, FGM is still regarded as a rite of passage and a marital requirement. It is wrongly seen as a way to preserve purity and control sexuality,” she stated.
Olutayo highlighted several barriers that hinder efforts to end the practice, including the absence of safe
and confidential reporting systems, fear of stigma and social exclusion, limited awareness of laws protecting women and girls, and the silence of many survivors who continue to live with trauma.
Citing a case in Igboho, Oyo State, where com- munity members admitted that female genitals were being used for rituals, she reiterated the importance of engaging men in advocacy against FGM.
Kaduna, Gates Foundation Deepen Collaboration Through Mutual Accountability Framework to Transform Development
Michael olugbode in Abuja
The Kaduna State Government and the Gates Foundation have signed the Kaduna Mutual Accountability Framework (KaMAF), a landmark platform to strengthen strategic collaboration, accountability, and sustainable development.
The signing ceremony, held on the sidelines of the United
Nations General Assembly, represents a shared dedication to supporting the advancement of sustainable development in Kaduna State through targeted interventions and strengthened cooperation.
According to a statement signed by the Senior Com- munications Officer at the Gates Foundation Fatima Abubakar Alkali, and Chief
Press Secretary to Kaduna State governor, Ibraheem Musa, the framework establishes a nonbinding strategic platform for dialogue and accountability. It is intended solely as a guide for collaboration and does not constitute, and shall not be interpreted as creating, any legally enforceable obliga- tions or financial commitments by either party.
Segun Ogunsanya; Group Chief
Balsingh;
CSR, Airtel Nigeria,
launch of Airtel Africa Foundation in Lagos....yesterday
PhOTO: ABiODuN AjALA
ToTalEnErgiEs Bags naTional safETy lEadErship award...
L-R: Deputy National Chairman, Nigerian Institution of Safety Engineers (NISE), Engr. Andrew Abanum; National Chairman of NISE, Engr. Seun Faluyi; Pioneer National Chairman, Engr. Biodun Oyedepo; Deputy Managing Director, TotalEnegies, Engr. Victor Bandele; and Chairman, Board of Fellows, Engr. Dideolu Falobi, when the TotalEnergies Bags National Safety Leadership Award from the Nigerian Institution of Safety Engineers for 16 Years LTI-Free Operations on AKPO FPSO, held at Victoria Island, Lagos, recently
Oborevwori Mourns as Shipping Magnate, Oscar Ibru, Dies at 67
Says his passing great loss to Urhobo nation
goddy Egene and Eromosele abiodun
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of prominent Urhobo son, businessman and philanthropist, Olorogun Oscar Ibru, describing his passing
as a monumental loss to the Urhobo nation and Nigeria at large.
Ibru, passed on yesterday at the age of 67, after a brief illness. The deceased, who was also President of the Governing Council of the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping (NCS), was until his
death the Chairman of the Ibru Organisation.
Although no details were provided regarding the circumstances of his death, his family revealed that he passed away after a brief illness.
A central figure in Nigeria’s corporate landscape, Ibru was
the most prominent heir of the Ibru dynasty. He played a pivotal role in sustaining and expanding the vast family conglomerate established by his late father, Olorogun Michael Ibru, with key interests spanning shipping, oil and gas, real estate, and commerce.
Regarded as both a visionary
Tinubu Meets With Ex-Rivers Administrator, Ibas, Olukayode, Edun Also in Attendance
deji Elumoye in Abuja
President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday evening met with the former Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), at the State House, Abuja.
Ibas, who arrived at the State House at about 5:50 p.m. dressed in brown native attire, was accompanied to the meeting by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, and Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission
(EFCC), Ola Olukayode. Edun had earlier been sighted entering the State House briefly before leaving, only to later return brandishing a file, underscoring the gravity of the engagement with the President. Ibas ceased to function as administrator of the oil-rich state on September 17, following the termination of the six-month emergency rule imposed in March, 2025.
President Tinubu had directed the reinstatement of the suspended governor, Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy,
and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly effective last Thursday.
During its first sitting after the end of emergency rule, the Rivers State House of Assembly, presided over by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, resolved to investigate the management of state funds under Ibas’ administration.
The state legislators specifi- cally resolved “to explore the process of knowing what transpired during the emergency rule with regard to spending from the consolidated revenue
Tinubu, Uzodimma, Otti, Adegbite Warn Pilgrims Against Abscondment
amby
Uneze in Owerri
President Bola Tinubu, has warned Nigerian Christian pilgrims traveling to Israel and Jordan against absconding during their stay in the Holy lands, urging them to make patriotism and dignity their watchwords while there.
In the same vein, Governor
Hope Uzodimma of Imo State and his Abia State counterpart, Alex Otti as well as the Executive Secretary of Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission, Rt. Rev. Prof. Stephen Adegbite, also joined their voices to preach patriotism to the Pilgrims. They spoke yesterday at the Sam Mbakwe International
Cargo Airport, Owerri, Imo State while flagging off the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission’s (NCPC) 2025 Delayed Easter Pilgrimage Exercise to Israel and Jordan. They warned that the NCPC had put strict measures in place to ensure near-zero cases of abscondment and truancy during the trip.
fund for the award of contracts and other expenditure.”
In his response, Ibas publicly rejected the decision to probe the state’s expenditure during his six months in office.
Official records show that Rivers State received at least ₦254.37 billion from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) between March and August 2025, covering the period Ibas served as sole administrator.
businessman and custodian of his family’s legacy, Oscar Ibru carried forward the entrepreneurial spirit that made the Ibru Organisation one of Nigeria’s most recognisable corporate brands. Under his leadership, the group not only remained a source of jobs and wealth creation but also supported philanthropic and cultural initiatives.
His death marks another painful moment for the Ibru family, coming years after the passing of its patriarch, Michael Ibru, in 2016. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days. The deceased was able to make a mark for himself over the years.
Not only was he the Managing Director, Emsee Shipping Lines Ltd - with interest in the receipt, delivery and distribution of petroleum products - he also has several other businesses under his belt.
Born in 1958, his early education took place at Igbobi
College, one of Nigeria’s pres- tigious schools, after which he travelled to the United States to pursue higher education. He earned his first degree at Skidmore College and later obtained a master’s degree from the Atlanta University Graduate School of Business.
Upon returning to Nigeria in 1983, he joined The Guardian as a management trainee, quickly distinguishing himself as a dedicated and innovative leader. Soon after, he joined Emsee Shipping Lines Limited as the Research and Development Manager. His rise within the company was meteoric—by 1992, he had ascended to the position of Managing Director.
Governor Oborevwori, in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon, in Asaba, commiserated with the Ibru family of Agbarha-Otor, the people of Delta State, and the Urhobo nation on the demise of the respected industrialist.
Delta State-born renowned peace and development advocate, Comrade Mulade Sheriff has appealed to the various ethnic nationalities, particularly the Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo ethnic groups in Warri Federal Constituency of Delta State to embrace peaceful coexistence amongst themselves.
The Ibe-Serimowei of ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom made the appeal on Tuesday while ad-
dressing stakeholders during this year International Day of Peace celebration, with the theme: ‘Act Now for a Peaceful World.’
He noted that peace was not just a dream, but a necessity for a thriving world.
“This theme calls upon us to take immediate action, to be proactive, effective, and to be responsible stewards of peace. Let us use this occasion to reflect on our individual and collective roles in fostering peace and peaceful coexistence, un-
derstanding, and cooperation”, he said.
Mulade urged the traditional rulers, community leaders and youths in the state and Nigeria at large, not to give room for violence or be used to foment crises in the state.
“Rather, they should continue to support and endeavour to promote peaceful coexistence among the various ethnic nationalities of Urhobo, Ijaw, Itsekiri, Isoko, and Anioma people in Delta State.
sylvester idowu in Warri
Plastic collection close-out ceremony...
L-R: Director Environmental Education Unit, Mrs. Monsurat Banire; Permanent Secretary, Office of Drainage Services, Engr. Mahamood Adegbite; Programme Specialist, (UNICEF) Bharat Kundra; overall winner of the School’s Plastic Collection challenge and Eco Ambassador, from Obele Community Senior High School, Surulere, Miss.
Aisha; Special Adviser on Environment, Engr. Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu; Chief of Lagos Field Office, (UNICEF) Ms. Celine Lafoucriere and Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services,
the School’s Plastic Collection Close-out Ceremony, held at the Ministry of The Environment and Water Resources Conference room, Alausa Secretariat,
Fuel Subsidy Scam: Ex-VP’s Aide Defends
Jonathan, Urges Otedola to Name Culprits
emmanuel addeh in Abuja
A former Special Adviser (Media) to ex-Vice President Nnamadi Sambo, Umar Sani, has defended Goodluck Jonathan over an allegation by billionaire businessman, Femi Otedola, that over N2 trillion was incurred by the country in fuel subsidy scams under his (Jonathan’s) administration.
Otedola recently revisited the nation’s controversial fuel subsidy regime, making an in- triguing assertion that corruption remains rife in the system. He made this claim while weighing in on a dispute between the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and fuel marketers.
In his intervention last week, Otedola, an erstwhile major player in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector, accused mem- bers of the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), a body which he said he founded, of perpetuating a corrupt business model built on subsidy fraud and obsolete infrastructure.
“For many, what probably stood out from the diatribe was Mr. Otedola’s bizarre allegation that over N2 tril- lion was siphoned through questionable subsidy claims under the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan.
“It is not clear whether the businessman threw in this gratuitous denunciation to score cheap political points and get ahead of others in the nation’s extant patronage politics or merely leveraged the very convenient corruption chant for mass appeal. What is however obvious, is the undisguised intent by the successful businessman to single out one administration for public censure,” Sani stated.
While no one should defend or justify corruption in any form or era, Sani stated it was important to respond to Otedola’s accusations with factual clarity and historical
accuracy, which Sani said he chose to ignore. “His statements are not only hypocritical but reek of selective memory and a convenient rewriting of history,” the ex-government aide stated. He argued that the petrol sub- sidy regime in Nigeria predated Jonathan’s administration and continued long after it, stressing that Nigeria’s subsidy regime has indeed lasted for about five decades.
“In fact, it was sustained in the 4th Republic, during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s tenure, continued through President Umar Yar’Adua’s administration and remained in place all through President Jonathan’s time.
“Later, under President Muhammadu Buhari, it intensely persisted despite public claims to the contrary, with even higher levels of opacity and unaccounted subsidy spending.
“It is therefore misleading, even mischievous, for Mr. Otedola to lay the blame
solely at the feet of the Jonathan administration when the issue spans several administrations, including the one under which Mr. Otedola himself enjoyed enormous business privileges,” Sani argued.
At the peak of the subsidy regime, he stated that Otedola, through his company Zenon Petroleum and Gas Ltd, was one of the biggest importers of diesel and other petroleum products in AccordingNigeria. to him, there is empirical evidence showing that Otedola controlled as much as 90 per cent of diesel imports and up to 40 per cent of other products at the time, stressing that the same system he now condemns was one in which he was deeply entrenched and from which he personally benefited immensely.
“There is no doubt that the industry was fraught with round-tripping and inflated subsidy claims during the subsidy regime. It was precisely
due to such rampant allegations that the Jonathan administration instituted the Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede-led forensic audit panel to probe the subsidy regime, a courageous step aimed at unmasking those exploiting the system, including several politically connected operators.
“Setting up of the Imoukhuede committee to conduct a forensic investigation into the subsidy scheme was part of the crucial reforms Jonathan initiated to sanitise the sector. Rather than sit idly while corruption festered, President Jonathan made the bold move towards privatisation and deregulation of petroleum products, which was unfortu- nately sabotaged by a coalition of vested interests, including politicians, opportunistic civil society groups, and indeed operators within the industry who directly benefited from the status“Letquo. it be recalled that the Occupy Nigeria protests of 2012, which were used to frustrate
deregulation, were in part funded and influenced by those who had the most to lose if subsidy fraud was dismantled. It is disingenuous for Mr. Otedola to now turn around and feign moral superiority,” Sani added.
His company, Zenon, was among those indicted or spot- lighted during the investigative work of both the Imoukhuede panel and the House of Repre- sentatives Ad-hoc Committee on Subsidy Payments led then by Honourable Farouk Lawan.
Given his proximity to power and central role in the subsidy ecosystem, Sani argued that Otedola likely knows far more about the inner workings of the subsidy scam than he is willing to disclose.
“His recent comments, while seemingly critical of corruption, appear to be a calculated attempt at image-laundering, projecting himself as a reformer rather than the enabler and direct beneficiary of the warped subsidy system that records show he was,” the
statement added.
While any genuine effort to expose corruption in Nigeria’s petroleum sector is welcome, however, such efforts must be grounded in honesty, full disclosure, and historical accuracy, Sani maintained.
The Nigerian public deserves the whole truth, not curated narratives or veiled confessions masquerading as patriotic intervention,” the statement said. It stressed that if Otedola truly wants to help the country, he should come clean about his role, name the culprits, and support a full independent inquiry into the subsidy regime, not just under Jonathan, but across all administrations, including those he did business under.
“Now that Otedola is speaking, he should as well tell Nigerians his story with the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON). Until then, his accusations amount to nothing more than a pot calling the kettle black,” Sani said.
NLNG: No Winner for 2025 Nigeria Prize for Science
Says judges dissatisfied with overall quality of entries 112 scientists applied, panel reveals
The Advisory Board of the Nigeria Prize for Science has announced that there will be no winner for the 2025 edition, following the judges’ dissatisfaction with the overall quality of entries received.
Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos, the Chairman of the Advisory Board, Prof. Barth Nnaji, explained that after a rigorous adjudication of the 112 entries submitted this year, none was found suitable for the Prize.
He stated that the decision, though difficult, reinforced the board’s commitment to upholding the integrity of
the selection process and protecting the reputation of the prestigious The Nigeria Prize for Science.
He noted that the prize is not just about rewarding scientific output, but safeguarding the values of creativity, originality, and scientific rigour that define truly outstanding work.
“To lower the bar would be to betray the trust of the public and diminish the legacy of the prize itself,” Nnaji affirmed.
He commended the courage and dedication of all who submitted entries, noting that their efforts reflect discipline and a desire to contribute to both national and global scientific discourse. He stressed that excellence was beyond
effort, and that it requires innovation, mastery of craft, and the ability to leave a lasting mark on human thought and development.
The Board chairman called on Nigerian scientists, researchers, and innovators to be inspired by the judges’ verdict to do more and strive higher.
“The Nigeria Prize exists to celebrate only the finest achievements, work that embodies originality, withstands scrutiny, and elevates scientific discourse. Where these qualities are absent, we cannot, in good conscience, bestow the Prize,” he stated.
This 2025 outcome is not unprecedented. In previous
years, in 2005, 2007, and then during the hiatus between 2011 to 2016, and again in 2021, the Nigeria Prize for Science was not awarded.
Nnaji admonished Nigerian scientists that the high bar set for the prize should not discourage future participa- tion, but rather reinforce the fact that the Prize will never compromise on its standards of scientific innovation and excellence.
The Advisory Board also announced that the theme for this year: “Innovations in ICT, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Digital Technologies for Development” will be repeated for the 2026 edition. The Board stated that the
decision was taken to attract a wider spectrum of innovators, particularly in the emerging field of Artificial Intelligence. Furthermore, the Advisory Board unveiled the members of the panel of judges. They include Dr. Omobola Johnson, the Chairperson of the Panel of Judges for The Nigeria Prize for Science, a Senior Partner at TLcom Capital. Omobola Johnson drives investment and value creation in technology companies across sub-Saharan Africa. She previously served as Nigeria’s Minister of Communication Technology (2011–2015) and spent over 25 years at Accenture, including five years as Country Managing Director.
Abdukabir
Dr.Gaji Omobolaji, during
Ikeja, Lagos State ... yesterday
emmanuel addeh in Abuja
IMOBI PARTNERSHIP MEETING...
L-R: Baale of Imobi, Ogun East Local Government, Chief Adedayo Oguntoye; Chairman, All Farmers Association, Ogun State, Alhaja Lola Kushimo-Adeoye; Chief Executive, House of Dorcas Integrated Services (HDI), Ololade Adeneye and Secretary, Imobi Baale in-Council, Chief Lekan Michael, during a program targeted at strengthening community partnerships in the area... recently
Eno: Despite Hardship, Tinubu is Working
Hard and We’re Beginning to Have Stability
Says state is united for president, Akpabio Celebrates past leaders for contribution to state development
Okon Bassey in Uyo
Akwa Íbom State Governor, Umo Eno, yesterday, said while there might be hardship in the country, President Bola Tinubu was working hard and the nation has begun to have some form of stability.
He, therefore, praised Tinubu and the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, for their efforts at repositioning the country.
UNGA, T INU
Convinced that the path to sustainable peace lies in growth and prosperity, the President noted that the government has taken difficult but necessary steps to restructure the economy and remove distortions, including subsidies and currency controls that benefited the few at the expense of the many.
Reaffirming his belief in the power of the market to transform, Tinubu said that the task is to enable and facilitate, and to trust in the ingenuity and enterprise of the people, but said the process of transition is difficult and brings unavoidable hardship.
He invited the United Nations to re-examine the best use of scarce resources, with one critical area being climate change, arguing that it is not solely an environmental issue, but about national, regional, and international security.
Tinubu expressed the belief that there are huge, shared dividends to accrue from increased support for education, for resilient housing, for access to technology and financing to allow vulnerable communities to thrive: to become part of solutions, rather than problems.
Nigeria and Africa, he said,
Eno made the remark Tuesday night at a state banquet to mark the creation of Akwa Íbom State, stressing that the state remained united for Tinubu and Akpabio among others.
“I won’t leave here tonight without thanking our President, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Regardless of the hardships that we are going through, we all would agree that we are beginning to have stability, and this
have made significant strides in recent years to put its affairs in order, stressing that the nations can take that progress to the next level, a level that presents new opportunities for trade, investment and profit, if they can access reforms to strengthen the international financial architecture.
“We need urgent action to promote debt relief - not as an act of charity but as a clear path to the peace and prosperity that benefits us all. I am calling for a new and binding mechanism to manage sovereign debt, a sort of International Court of Justice for money, that will allow emerging economies to escape the economic straitjacket of primary production of unprocessed exports,” he stated.
He added that investment in exploration, development and processing of these minerals, in Africa, will diversify supply to the international market, reduce tensions between major economies and help shape the architecture for peace and prosperity.
“I believe that we will strengthen the international order, when those countries that produce strategic minerals benefit fairly from those min-
President is working hard.
“Standing here as a governor tonight, I can tell you that what- ever little achievements God has helped us to achieve, Akwa Íbom has not borrowed any money. This is because this president is making funding available to state governors. At least I can say so for myself as a governor.
“So, I continue to pray, and Akwa Ibomites pray that God will keep him in Good health,
erals - in terms of investment, partnership, local processing and jobs. When we export raw materials, as we have been doing, tension, inequality and instability fester,” he said.
In the same vein, the President called for a dedicated initiative, bringing together researchers, private sector, governments and communities, to close the digital divide, as the world stands on the threshold of new and dramatic technological change.
“We understand better than we did, the opportunities technology offers as well as the safeguards we need to enable growth and mitigate the potential for corrosion. Some worry about fake news. We have plenty of that, with the potential of devastating real-world consequences in countries rich and poor.
“I am more worried about an emerging generation that grows ever more cynical, because it believes nothing and trusts less. As technology shakes up public administration, law, finance, conflict and so much of the human condition, I am calling for a new dialogue, to ensure we promote the best of the opportunities that are arising - and promote the
and that God would keep strengthening him so that he will continue to pilot the affairs of the “Akwacountry.Ibom is united for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we are united for Senator Godswill Akpabio and we are united for Umo Eno and all our would-be candidates,” heEnoposited.also commended all past leaders of the State for
level of access that allows emerging economies more quickly, to close a wealth and knowledge gap that is in no one’s interest,” he noted.
On the Israel-Gaza issue, Tinubu noted that Nigeria does not believe that the sanctity of human life should be trapped in the corridors of endless debate.
“That is why we say, without stuttering and without doubt, that a two-state solution remains the most dignified path to lasting peace for the people of Palestine. For too long, this community has borne the weight of moral conflict.
“For too long, we have been caught in the crossfire of violence that offends the conscience of humanity. We come not as partisans, but as peacemakers. We come as brothers and sisters of a shared world, a world that must never reduce the right to live into the currency of devious politics.
“The people of Palestine are not collateral damage in a civilisation searching for order. They are human beings, equal in worth, entitled to the same freedoms and dignities that the rest of us take for granted,” he maintained.
their remarkable contributions to its consistent development. He said, 38 years down the line, the state has metamorphosed from a seemingly obscure area to a destination of choice.
He noted that the current state of development would not have been possible without the efforts of all its past leaders, stressing that God has blessed the state with great and progressive- minded leaders.
31 Ye ARS Af T e R T H e IR mURD e R , T INU b U Ho N o URS oG o NI 4 w ITH N ATI o NA l AwARDS
generations to close ranks and put this dark chapter behind us. This reconciliation is not an erasure of history; it is the commitment to write the next chapter together.
“Government will deploy every resource to support the Ogoni people in its march towards shared prosperity.”
Presenting the committee’s report, Ribadu described the process as transformational, saying it is aimed at restoring hope and rebuilding trust after years of neglect and conflict.
According to him, an inter- agency taskforce, including NNPCL, ministries, and the Ogoni Dialogue Committee, would oversee implementation.
“Peace is already being restored, and Nigerians will soon see the benefits, not just in Ogoniland, but across the Niger Delta and beyond,” Ribadu said.
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, who led the Rivers delegation, hailed the renewed seriousness of the federal government.
Fubara said, “Finally, there is every sign that this government is serious about resolving these issues, and I think we need to give them all the necessary opportunity and time to ensure this problem is resolved once and for all.” He pledged his full cooperation.
The chairman of the committee, Baridam, said the
report reflected the collective will of the Ogoni people, highlighting demands for structured participation in oil production, accelerated clean-up, and sustainable development.
He described the document as “a blueprint for the future”. Speaking with newsmen after the ceremony, prominent activist and former President of Movement for the Survival of Ogoni People (MOSOP), Ledum Mitee, said the meeting signalled a “new dawn” for Ogoni.
“We are leaving here with hope that something practical is being done and that our matters have received a hearing at the highest level,” he said.
Mitee stated that progress had already begun, including targeted employment and plans for a University of Environmental Technology and an industrial park.
Former Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Invest- ment, and son of the late Edward Kobani, one of the Ogoni Four, Kenneth Kobani, stated, “What the president has done today has shown that Nigeria can actually be a better place. No matter how long it takes, Ogoni and Nigeria as a whole are on the right path.” He thanked Tinubu and Ribadu for recognising the sacrifices of his father and others.
WIKE IN UYO...
Atiku: Yoruba Will Occupy Top Places If I Become President
Former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has said theYoruba would occupy a “topmost place” in his policy making if he elected president.
Atiku, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), praised the Yoruba people, and described them as “one of the finest species of the human race.”
In a statement by his media consultant, Kola Johnson, the presidential hopeful explained that his marital ties had strength- ened his bond with the Yoruba people.
“It is also for this reason that the interest of the Yorubas will always occupy a topmost place in my policy making and governance if by the special Grace of Allah, I am lucky to be president in 2027.
“Therefore, the fear that my ascension to presidency might
lead to Hausa/Fulani domination over Yorubas or other ethnic group does not only arise, but also absolutely unfounded because the entire Yoruba stock are my larger extended family and in-laws.”
Atiku recalled that he married his first wife, Titi, a Yoruba woman, in the 1970s, and together they had four children. He said their bond had remained strong over the decades.
“My children with Titi sometimes called me ‘Baba rere’ meaning ‘good father’. I am extremely in love with my children and serve as a good father to them as I urge every father to do the same to their children.
“Besides, Yorubas are so sophisticated and highly educated that you can only toy with them at your own peril.
“My Ijesha-born Yoruba wife is more than a wife to me. Aptly put, she is my Jewel of
Inestimable value and anybody who knows about my family, even from a distance can easily tell you this.
“This has indeed been the reason why both in my private
and public life, Yoruba rank amongst my most intimate friends and associates. Therefore, I have never joked with them.”
The former Vice President also stressed his detribalised
outlook, claiming it defined both his personal and political life.
His words: “Anyone who knows me will tell you with all sincerity, that as a person I am naturally a highly detribalised
person. Even before I could ever venture into politics, I flowed easily and effortlessly with people of diverse tribes, ethnicity, religion and whatever sectarian differences.
Ndume: Privatising Govt is Setting Nigeria Back, Warns Rivers on Reoccurring Crisis
Laud Fubara for peaceful disposition
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
A former Senate Leader, Senator Ali Ndume, has noted that the major thing that set Nigeria back was because the government was allegedly being run like an enterprise under private ownership.
Ndume, who represents Borno South Senatorial Dis-
Despite IGP’s Recent Warning, Bandits Kill Policeman, Pregnant Woman in New Attack
About seven suspected bandits have reportedly killed one pregnant woman and a police officer during a fresh attack on some communities in both Agbonran village in Ifelodun local government and Patigi Local Government Council Area of Kwara State.
This came a few days after the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, read a riot act to those who took pleasure in killing policeAlready,officers. no fewer than 500 people had fled the affected communities for fear of being killed by the suspected bandits that have been operating in the two
local government councils for past few months.
The incident, according to THISDAY checks, happened on Tuesday night that also led to the kidnapping of eight persons.
Commissioner of police, Adekimi Ojo, in a chat with newsmen, yesterday, confirmed the death of the police officer, Salisu Shamaki, at Agbonran, in Ifelodun local government of the state.
But details on the killing of the pregnant woman, and the kidnapping of eight persons in were still hazy.
Sources said, truck load of bandits in a motorcycle attacked Matokun village in Patigi LGA in early hours of Tuesday, in an operation
that lasted for about four hours.
It was also gathered that fear of potential attack before the bandits unleashed terror on the community on Tues- day had left the community almost completely deserted.
Prior to the attack, THISDAY gathered that the community had reported the possible attack of the bandits to Army unit in the area, but was not heeded.
Sources close to the communities who sought anonymity stated that, “No military officer could confront the bandits during the almost four hours raid of the community, despite the fact that the soldiers had been briefed of the possible attack.
trict in the National Assembly, has however advised Rivers people to shun every action that could return the state to lockdown, stressing that the emergency rule period affected the economy of the State.
Ndume made the assertion while responding to questions from journalists on the sidelines of the ongoing 2nd 2025 ECOWAS Parliamentary Seminar in Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital, calling on the executive and legislative arms of Rivers State government to work together for
the interest of the people. He lauded Governor Siminalayi Fubara for maintaining a peaceful disposition throughout the period of the emergency rule, saying he demonstrated maturity in leadership.
“It takes exceptional maturity as a leader by saying that let the past be past and let’s move forward, and that is what a leader is supposed to do. And I hope that everybody including you (journalists), every Nigerian will now concentrate on making sure that democracy is sustained.”
For a progressive state, Ndume advised that, “They have to work together. Democracy exists on three arms independent but interdependently. That is the executive, judiciary and the legislature. They have to exist as an institution to make democracy work.
“If you remove the legislature from democracy what do you have? You don’t have democracy and at the same time you can’t have democracy without the executive.
Egbetokun, Former IGPs, PSC, Okpebholo, Senators, Others Pay Tributes to Late Arase
Linus Aleke in Abuja
Nigerians from all walks of life, yesterday, paid glowing tributes to the 18th Inspector General of Police, the late Dr.Solomon Arase.
Speaking at the night of tributes in Abuja, his predecessors and successors described him as “the best amongPresidentus”. of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, said Arase was a shining example in law enforcement.
In his eulogy, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode
Egbetokun, said the reforms introduced into the Force by Arase were the cornerstone of modern policing in Nigeria.
“The death of the former Inspector General of Police and Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), Dr Solomon Arase, is a loss felt not just by his family or the Nigeria Police alone, but by the nation at large.
“He was not just a police officer — he was an institution in himself, a rare blend of intellect, discipline, and humanity.
“From the moment he
joined the Nigeria Police Force in 1981 as a cadet officer, his career became a lesson in precedence, excellence, and dedication to duty.
“He rose through the ranks with quiet confidence, driven not just by ambition, but by a genuine desire to leave the institution better than he met it.
“By 2015, destiny entrusted him with the highest office in the Force. He was appointed the 18th Indigenous Inspec- tor General of Police of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno (right), welcoming the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State… yesterday
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
Hammed Shittu in Ilorin
Kanji Dam: Police Arrest 12 for Theft, Vandalism of N4.8bn Installations
Laleye dipo in minna
The Nigerian Police have announced the arrest of 12 suspects in connection with the theft and vandalism of N4.8bilion installations at the Kainji Dam in Borgu Local Government Area
of Niger State. The crime, according to a police statement made available to journalists in Minna yesterday, was committed between 2023 and July 2025 According to the statement, the arrests followed a criminal
Otu Empowers 400 Youths, Ex-agitators with N800m Grants
Bassey inyang in Calabar
As part of his effort to address economic inequality and curb youth restiveness, Cross River State governor, Bassey Otu, has doled out N800 million to 400 Cross Riverians, including 200 farmers and 200 former members of the defunct Bakassi Defence Force to support their reintegration, agricultural ventures, and entrepreneurial pursuits.
The beneficiaries, who recently concluded intensive training on innovative and integrated agricultural value
chains at CSS Farms in Nasarawa State, each received N2 million in seed capital to either establish or expand their businesses.
Speaking at the event in Calabar, Governor Bassey Otu described the initiative as a deliberate effort to redirect the energy of young people from destructive tendencies toward productive and transformative ventures.
“Today’s empowerment programme is targeted at redirecting the strength of our youths from destructive to productive ventures.“
Bolt Celebrates Top Drivers with Special Rewards
Bolt has recognised and celebrated outstanding drivers with valuable rewards, including televisions, air conditioners, washing machines, and deep freezers, among others.
The initiative is part of the ongoing Driver Reward campaign, which is happening across all cities where Bolt operates, designed to appreciate drivers who consistently demonstrate professionalism and commitment on the platform.
The recognition was based on three core performance criteria: the numberrr of
rides completed, average rider ratings, and active membershiinof the Bolt Driver Club. Drivers who excelled in these areas were selected as recipients of the rewards, underscoring the company’s commitment to encouraging excellent service and rider satisfaction.
Commenting on the campaign, the General Manager of Bolt Nigeria, Osi Oguah, said: “Our drivers are the lifeblood of our business. This initiative is a way to show our appreciation to those who go above and beyond in providing safe, reliable, and professional rides.”
complaint received from Mainstream Energy Solutions Limited, the managers of the dam, which indicated that within July 2025, an
inspection was conducted in the navigation lock yard of the Kainji power plant at Kaya junction, and it was discovered that some navigation lock metals and
beams were vandalised and stolen.
The police in the statement added that at first, two suspects, Shaibu Abu Sufyan, 35,
of New-Bussa and Ibrahim Musa, 31, of the same address were arrested but after investigation 10 other suspects were also apprehended.
Kano Warns against Illegal Schools, Unauthorised Fee Hikes
ahmad sorondinki in Kano
Kano State Government has expressed deep concern over the alarming number of over 3,000 unregistered private schools operating across the state.
The Executive Secretary of the Kano State Private and Voluntary Institutions
QuickAir
sunday Okobi
Management Board (KSPVIB), Baba Abubakar Umar, made the disclosure while briefing journalists in Kano yesterday.
The government said it aimed to ensure compliance with regulations and improve the quality of education by increasing registered schools and fostering a conducive learning environment.
He revealed that merely 3,000 out of approximately 6,000 to 7,000 private schools in Kano are registered, warning that the board will take a firm but compassionate approach, with legal action reserved for non-compliant schools.
He vowed that defaulting schools would face legal
action for failing to register, releasing false data, hoarding information, and evading tax payment.
Umar lamented that some private schools have increased fees without following due process, and failed to properly communicate book lists to parents, among other violations.
Restructures, Relaunches Platform for Travel Agents
QuickAir, a leading aviation technology solutions provider, has announced a comprehensive corporate restructuring and the relaunch of its domestic Global Distribution System (GDS) specifically designed
for Nigerian travel agents. The company has also appointed a new leadership team to spearhead its ambitious expansion plans in the Nigerian aviation sector. Suleiman Ibrahim was recently made the new chairman of QuickAir Networks Limited, bringing
over two decades of experience in technology infrastructure and aviation systems. Also,Dr. Segun Oyebolu has assumed the dual role of deputy chairman and chief executive officer, while Mr. Muyiwa Amoo joined as the executive director, Finance and Administration. The company stated that the relaunched GDS platform offers Nigerian travel agents real-time access to domestic flight inventory, competitive pricing, and seamless booking capabilities across all major Nigerian airlines.
UN to Mark 2025 International Day of Older Persons in Abuja
sunday Ehigiator
The United Nations(UN) will on October 1, 2025, mark the 35th anniversary of the International Day of Older Persons (UNIDOP) with activities to highlight the contributions, rights, and challenges of ageing populations across the world.
In Nigeria, the commemoration will take place in Abuja, spearheaded by Global Knights Foundation, a non-profit organisation dedicated to advocacy, care, and protection of vulnerable persons, with a particular focus on the elderly.
In a statement issued yesterday by its Executive Director, Ngozi John-Uyah, the organisation disclosed that this year’s global theme: ‘Older Persons Driving Local and Global Actions: Our Aspirations, Our Wellbeing and Our Rights’, would shape discussions on the role of older persons in society while spotlighting issues they face both locally and globally. The Abuja event will feature a keynote address by Dr. Musa Bawa, a mentalist, wellness coach, naturopath, and professional mind coach with more than three decades of experience working with older persons.
Polaris Bank Hosts Global Trade Forum, Drives Growth
Polaris Bank, Nigeria’s leading digital retail, and commercial bank has corporate customers in the non-oil sector at its Global Trade Forum. The event was designed to foster stronger stakeholder relationships, address traderelated challenges, and explore
innovative solutions to drive business growth.
The forum, with the theme: “Trade Export: Partnering for Growth,” brought together key players in Nigeria’s trade and export ecosystem, including business leaders, exporters, regulators, Nigerian Customs
and policy influencers. Participants engaged in robust discussions on the challenges and opportunities shaping the global trading landscape.
Speaking at the event, Polaris Bank Managing Director/CEO, Kayode Lawal, underscored the central role of trade as a catalyst for sustainable economic growth. He reaffirmed Polaris Bank’s commitment to delivering tailored solutions that empower Nigerian businesses to compete more effectively in international markets.
CaVisTa GaLa diNNER aT UNGa 2025…
L-R: Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Sun Africa, Adam Cortese; CEO of Corporate Council on Africa(CCA), Florie Liser; Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal; Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II; Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago; Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa; Minister of Women Affairs, Hon. Imaan Sulaiman- Ibrahim; Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Chairman, Cavista Holdings, Niyi John Olajide, and Deputy Governor of Cross River, Peter Odey, at the Cavista Holdings Gala Dinner, during the 80th United State General Assembly in New York...recently
A W IT ne SS T o V I olence on TH e Pl AT e A u
On 24th June, our committee visited some of the affected communities in Riyom local government to conduct on-the-spot assessments. At Wereng, the council chairman recalled that the community had been attacked about a month before our visit, resulting in the loss of nine lives and the destruction of over 33 houses. At Tan-Jol community, a Berom youth leader explained that the community was once the largest in the entire Jol area but has been reduced from 17 settlements to just five due to repeated attacks by herders. From Tan-Jol, we left for Rim community, where the committee encountered dozens of Police personnel led by the Riyom Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Superintendent They were in a convoy of six operational vehicles. Isado explained to our chairman what turned out to be a failed mission. It was the kernel of my first observation.
The day before, (23 June 2025), Inspector Yakubu Dauda, along with two other officers, had responded to a complaint from locals who reported spotting herders hiding in nearby bushes. During the operation, Inspector Dauda was shot and killed, and his rifle was taken by the assailants. In response, according to Idoko, the State Commissioner of Police deployed additional personnel and instructed him (as the DPO) to recover the stolen weapon. However, while on the mission, they were ambushed by over 50 armed men who rode on motorcycles. The attackers opened fire, overwhelming the police team and forcing the retreat that led them to us.
The concern here is that criminals of all hues are now so emboldened in our country that law enforcement/security agents are considered easy game for them. This is a dangerous slide we need to arrest. On Monday, Daily Trust reported that no fewer than 53 security operatives were killed across the country in the last two weeks. These, according to the report, “included soldiers, police officers, personnel of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), immigration and customs officers, vigilantes, members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF) and state community watch groups.” Just last Friday, a tactical police team was ambushed in the Katsina Al/Ukum axis of Benue State by gunmen. On Monday,
the Katsina-Ala local government chairman, Justine Shaku, confirmed that 11 policemen, including an Assistant Superintendent, lost their lives in that attack.
Earlier in the year, there was a trending video of how the DPO for Rano, CSP Baba Ali Muhammad was brutally murdered by street urchins. In the column I wrote after that tragedy, I raised concerns that criminals in our country no longer fear policemen. Contrasting that with what happens in other climes, I referenced the response by Vivek Tulja, a satellite communication expert, to a question of why (in most countries) criminals, including members of the Mafia, avoid killing policemen unless they are cornered. “If you happen to kill a cop, you are best off using the last bullet in your magazine on yourself,” Tulja concluded. That is not the situation in our country. Therefore, as the principal custodian
of peace, order and security in a constitutional democracy, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) must work to restore their capacity to deal with the growing threat against their personnel. If those who are meant to protect us cannot protect themselves, we are all in mortal danger.
The second experience occurred on 19th June. We were on the way to Ropp in Barakin Ladi local government, a difficult terrain to navigate, when we encountered two men in a pool of blood, and a hysterical woman. What happened? She was taking her son, one of the two men, to the hospital on a bicycle when they encountered a herder who macheted both men before snatching the bike and running into the bush. Our chairman detailed some of the military people with us to take the victims to the hospital. But here is the issue. That we have too many ungoverned spaces for criminals to operate in has never been in doubt. My concern is that many of our rural communities are too small and isolated in a manner that makes them easy prey for these criminals. I have often wondered whether there could not be a ‘Consolidation’ of some of these scattered communities. I know this is an emotional issue but it is one I intend to pursue one day.
Before I conclude let me say that it has been a pleasure knowing our chairman, Major General Nicholas Rogers (Rtd), a daredevil ‘Old Soja’ who sometimes forgot that the rest of us were never enlisted in the military. Having commanded ‘Operation Safe Haven’ at some point in his military career, his experience, exposure and the respect he commanded across Plateau State helped us in the assignment. Although he hails from Imo State, Rogers (who also once commanded ‘Operation Lafiya Dole’ against Boko Haram/ ISWAP in the Northeast) speaks perfect Hausa (and Yoruba too) so that made our job easy during engagements across the state. I have also made friends of other members, including AVM Ibrahim Shafi’i (Rtd), Mr Jonathan Kure, a retired deputy Director General of the State Security Service (SSS), Lawan Usman Safana, a retired SSS Assistant Director General, Mr Yakubu Bawa, a Jos-based legal practitioner, Mrs Esther Lolo, a retired Judge of the Kaduna State High Court, Dr Gad Shamaki, a civil society activist
and Hajia Amina Elelu-Ahmed, a former Director of Legal Service at the National Orientation Agency (NOA). And how can I forget our indefatigable Secretary, Mr Timothy Parlong, a legal practitioner and retired permanent secretary in the state civil service—the only Plateau indigene on our committee. In the last four months, it has been a wonderful experience for me to travel across one of the most beautiful states in Nigeria. But that is exactly where the paradox lies. With rolling hills, attractive rock formations and luscious green vegetation, I continued to wonder why we tend to waste all the resources bestowed upon our country by mother nature. It all reminds me of my trip to Rabah local government of Sokoto in 2018, following the killing of 32 people in Tabanni, Allikiru, Gaidan Kare, Kursa, Dankilawa, Ruwan Tsamiya and Gidan Barebari communities. Accompanied by Mallam Abubakar Shekara, who was at that time Director-General, Media and Public Affairs to then Governor Aminu Tambuwal, the drive from Sokoto to Gandi took about 80 minutes but I had never seen such vast expanse of rainwater bodies in any part of Nigeria as I witnessed on that stretch. Enthralled, I muttered almost to myself but to the hearing of Shekara, “We have no business with hunger in Nigeria.” Chuckling, Shekara, a soft-spoken but rather interesting man, responded with a story he attributed to a friend. After God had created the world, according to the story, He sent an angel to carry resources to different parts. “In America, God told the angel to drop a lot of resources because people from different parts of the world would congregate there. In Asia, God also directed the angel to drop a lot of resources because the inhabitants would be very industrious. The same pattern continued until the angel got to Africa and he had not even expended half the resources he carried. But upon entering the continent, the angel stumbled and spilled all the resources…” Shekara paused, perhaps to put me in suspense, and then he laughed. “As the angel tried to pack the spilled resources, God told him, ‘Don’t bother. Just watch: The people will not use them.’”
May God deliver us from that ‘curse’!
Nigeria’s Quiet Catalyst: MDGIF’s Role in Rewiring Economy Through Gas
Nigeria sits on over 206 trillion cubic feet of gas, yet industries still burn diesel and households rely on imported fuels. The paradox underscores why the Midstream and Downstream Gas Infrastructure Fund (MDGIF)—created under Section 52 of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021—is one of the country’s most consequential policy instruments. Its mandate is to finance pipelines, processing plants, and networks that can make gas the backbone of the economy.
But after a slow start, momentum is building. In 2024, MDGIF established its Governing Council, appointed a technocrat, Oluwole Adama, as Executive Director, and deployed an initial N122 billion ($74 million) across six firms.
By August 2025, that number had grown to 16 companies, spanning Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) stations, Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) terminals, and mini-Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) plants. Some projects are already operational; others—like Ibile Oil & Gas’s 15 CNG stations and a mini-LNG plant in Delta—are due in 2025/26.
Gas as Industrial Policy
This pipeline of projects aligns with Nige- ria’s “Decade of Gas” agenda. The logic is straightforward: Cheaper piped gas and CNG reduce manufacturers’ costs, displace diesel, and strengthen import substitution. Fewer fuel imports
ease pressure on foreign reserves, while flare gas capture cuts emissions and boosts Nigeria’s ESG credentials.
The timing is critical. Following subsidy removal in 2023, Nigerians faced inflationary shocks as fuel prices spiked. The government responded with the Presidential CNG Initiative (PCNGi), designed to roll out nationwide CNG buses and fueling stations. MDGIF is effectively the supply-side engine behind this demand push. By financing CNG mother stations and LNG infrastructure, the Fund is enabling the delivery of cheaper, domestically sourced fuel.
The payoff is two-fold: CNG adoption reduces FX demand for imported petrol and diesel, while affordable alternatives help cushion subsidy removal’s social impact. In other words, gas is no longer just an energy play—it is an economic stabiliser.
Proof of Life
The N122 billion deployed in 2024 was not designed for spectacle but for replication—proof that MDGIF can underwrite gas infrastructure economics under Nigerian conditions. Each deal acts as an index case, showing that projects can move from concept to financial close and into operation.
This matters in a country where infrastructure often falls into the “pilot trap”—one-offs that fail to scale. By emphasising standardised term sheets, transparent eligibility, and consistent monitoring, MDGIF can build a recognisable
asset class for pension funds, insurers, and global infrastructure investors.
Global Partnerships as Signal
For capital markets, credibility is measured by the company one keeps. That is why the MDGIF–Afreximbank Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed in September 2025, is a watershed. It targets up to $500 million over four years, blending Afreximbank’s senior debt with MDGIF’s equity.
The true significance lies beyond the numbers.
The MoU imports Afreximbank’s due diligence culture, global visibility, and rules-based risk approach—lowering Nigeria’s cost of capital.
In an era where blended finance is the bridge between public ambition and private balance sheets, this is exactly how sovereign policy institutions gain credibility.
Globally, the playbook is familiar. The UK’s Green Investment Bank catalysed offshore wind.
India’s National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) blended sovereign capital with private investors under strict governance. Canada’s Infrastructure Bank has mobilised blended capital for PPPs. MDGIF mirrors these models, with the potential to unlock Nigeria’s vast pool of pension and insurance assets.
Governance as Competitive Edge
Institutional investors buy governance before they buy assets. MDGIF’s structure—a Governing Council for strategy coupled with a professional
execution team—mirrors best-in-class models like NIIF and the U.S. DOE Loan Programmes Office (LPO).
Why does this matter? Because governance quality translates directly into lower risk premia. Stronger risk identification and standardised documentation compress investor spreads, making more projects viable. For a country grappling with high financing costs, this is a decisive edge.
The Macro Payoff
Nations don’t get rich by discovering resources; they prosper by reducing the friction between resources and productive use. For Nigeria, that friction is overwhelmingly midstream and downstream. MDGIF’s role is to remove it by financing the pipes and plants that industry elsewhere takes for granted.
The payoff connects directly to everyday economics: Cheaper industrial energy lowers production costs for manufacturing and food processing; reduced import bills save scarce foreign exchange for education, health, and capital projects; increased domestic value capture deepens the tax base without punitive rates while flare reduction improves Nigeria’s ESG profile and opens access to lower-cost green finance.
Continues online
•Akinjo, a seasoned investment banker, advising on complex capital market infrastructure transactions across Africa, wrote via oladele05@ gmail.com
Major General Nicholas Rogers (rtd)... Committee Chairman
Oladele Akinjo
Jalla Petitions FIFA on Undue Interference in NFF’s Electoral Process
Duro Ikhazuagbe
Ahead of the 81st Annual General Assembly of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) scheduled for this Saturday in Ibadan, a critical stakeholder in the country’s football, Prince Harrison Jalla, has petition FIFA to intervene to stop the Congress from committing a cosmetic amendment to the electoral process that continues to sustain the fraudulent and undemocratic structure where charlatans emerge every four- year cycle as leaders of Nigerian football.
In the petition dated 23rd September, 2025, Jalla, who is a former president of the country’s Players’ Union, drew the attention of the President of FIFA, Gianni Infantino, to two law Suits: No: FHC/ABJ/ CS/1376/2021 and Appeal No: CA/ABJ/CV/1006/2002 pending in courts from the 2022 elections that brought in Ibrahim Gusau as president of the NFF.
“My attention, and that of other stakeholders, has been drawn to a notice dated 14th September 2025 from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), signed by Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, the General Secretary, regarding a purported congress slated for 25th, 26th, and 27th September 2025 in Ibadan, Oyo State of Nigeria, which a FIFA delegation is expected to attend.
“The import of this FIFA delegation’s visit is to rubber- stamp a cosmetic amendment to the electoral process, one that continues to sustain the fraudulent and undemocratic structure where charlatans emerge every four-year cycle as leaders of Nigerian football. This entrenches corruption and aids the free fall
of Nigerian football, using FIFA as a cover.
“In light of the above circumstances, I respectfully inform FIFA as follows:
1. The electoral process of the Nigeria Football Federation is currently sub judice, arising from disputes in the September 2022 NFF elections. These are being fiercely contested by relevant stakeholders and members of the five federating units that make up the NFF, in Suit No: FHC/ ABJ/CS/1376/2021 and Appeal
No: CA/ABJ/CV/1006/2002.
“2. Articles 2 and 15 of the FIFA Statutes, and Articles 18 and 30 of the NFF Statutes, clearly define how the statutes can be amended. This is a purely internal issue, not within the purview of FIFA.”
Jalla insisted in the petition that it was mind-boggling that “despite several complaints by Nigerian football stakeholders regarding the misapplication,misappropriation, and massive corruption associated with FIFA
annual grants, FIFA Forward 1 and 2 grants, and several other streams of funding, FIFA has deliberately shielded corruption in Nigeria for the last 10 years.
Yet, FIFA is always quick to storm Nigeria every four-year cycle to oversee NFF elections that are consistently characterized by fraud, massive vote-buying, and other electoral malpractices.”
In conclusion, Jalla stressed that since parties involved in the dispute have already committed to the Nigerian judicial process,
Wolves’ Boss Wants More from Tolu Arokodare
Despite opening his goal account in England on Tuesday night against Everton in the Carabao Cup, Super Eagles forward, Tolu Arokodare, has been urged to get into top physical shape following his transfer from Belgium for Wolves. The big striker, a £23million
summer signing from Genk, came off the bench to double Wolves’ lead in a lively third round of Carabao Cup against Everton.
Goals in each half from Marshall Munetsi and Arokodare fired the Premier League strugglers through to the fourth
round of the Carabao Cup at Molineux.
But Wolves Manager, Vitor Pereira, said afterwards: “Tolu came in the moment that we didn’t have Jorgen (Larsen) to play. The plan was not to play with him for 90 minutes, the plan was to give him time
AJ Team, Ali’s Daughter Hit Lagos for ‘Chaos In The Ring’ Showdown
Ahead of the Independence Day boxing showdown billed for the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos, promoter of the fights, tagged-’Chaos in the Ring’, Group CEO, The Balmoral Group, Dr Ezekiel Adamu, has stated that some of the invited boxers and some big
media organizations are already in the country for the October 1 boxing night. In a chat with THISDAY, Dr Adamu revealed that former British, Commonwealth, and European Champion, Dan Azeez (21-2-1, 13 KOs) is in town, while Cruiserweight contender Brandon Glanton and his team will be hitting
the shores of Nigeria this week. He also confirmed that former IBF World Champion, Richard Commey and Ray Seitzhanov will be in the country this week with their team, while Mohammad Ali’s daughter, Dr Debra King, and Anthony Joshua’s team will also be attending the Independence Day fight.
to adapt and to start getting minutes. He needs to work hard to get his condition, and he will help us.”
Pereira insisted the time for adaptation has finished and wants his players to ignite their season.
The victory brings some relief for Wolves, who beat West Ham in the last round, after the worst league start in their history left them bottom of the table.
They have lost their opening five top-flight games- including a 3-2 home defeat to the Toffees last month- but remain confident Pereira’s experience will prove crucial in arresting their slide.
He said: “Now for the players, the new players, the time for adaptation has finished. This is time to perform and time to help the team.
“With two or three good results we can play at another level, for sure.
“it would be contemptuous of Nigerian law if any third party—either by commission or omission—attempts to circumvent or undermine
our judicial process. The consequences would be direct criminal contempt proceedings against any party, including FIFA officials.”
Boris Becker Regrets Winning Wimbledon at 17
Six-time Grand Slam champion, Boris Becker, has said that he regrets winning Wimbledon at the age of 17 because of the pressure it placed on him during and after his playing career.
The German was only 17 years, seven months and 15 days when he beat Kevin Curren in 1985, becoming the youngest Wimbledon men’s singles champion of all time.
Becker went on to win five more Grand Slam titles, including another two at Wimbledon, and became one of the greatest players of his generation.
However, Becker’s success was often overshadowed by a turbulent private life and repeated financial difficulties.
In 2023 he was released from
prisonin London after serving eight months of a two-and-ahalf-year jail sentence for hiding £2.5m worth of assets and loans to avoid paying debts.
“If you remember any other wunderkind (wonderkid), they usually don’t make it to 50 because of the trials and tribulations that come after,” Becker told BBC Sport in an interview to mark the release of his new autobiography in which he wrote of his time in jail.
“Whatever you do, wherever you go, whoever you talk to, it becomes a world sensation.
“It becomes the headline of some of the most important papers of tomorrow. And you’re just trying to mature, just trying to find your feet in the world.
Golden Eaglets Rout Baby Cheetahs 4-1 in Yamoussoukro
A hat-trick from George Agha and a sublime free-kick goal from David Edeh ensured a comfortable start for five-time world champions Nigeria in the WAFU-B U17 Championship, as the Golden Eaglets routed Baby Cheetahs of Benin Republic 4 -1 in Yamoussoukro on Wednesday.
Agha converted from the spot three minutes into the game after Boluwatife Thompson was hacked inside the box.
Edeh displayed fantastic football artistry to score from a free-kick in the 5th minute of the encounter.
The Eaglets were in cruise control as Agha bagged his brace in the 14th minute. The
charges of Manu Garba were very dominant with a three-goal advantage.
Warris Soumanou in goal for Benin Republic was caught nap- ping and his error of judgement gave the Eaglets another goal after a beautiful exchange of passes and dribbles between Thompson and Edeh, which set up Agha for his hat-trick in the 32nd minute.
It was raining goals and it was the turn of the Beninoise in the 45th minute, as a low drive from Jeremy Zannou gave the Baby Cheetahs a consolation goal.
Gianni Infantino...FIFA President
Kunle Adewale
FLAG oFF oF DELAyED 2025 EASTER piLGRimAGE...
L-R: Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, Sen George Akume (representative of President Bola Tinubu) and executive Secretary of Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission, Rt. Rev. Samuel Adegbite at the flag off of the Delayed 2025 easter Pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport Owerri ... yesterday
olusegun AD e NIYI
olusegun.adeniyi@thisdaylive.com
A Witness to Violence on the Plateau
Inaugurated on 20 May 2025, the ‘Facts Finding Committee on the Incessant Attacks, Killings and Destruction of Plateau Communities’ submitted its report to Governor Caleb Mannaseh Mutfwang last week. Because of prior commitments, I could not make it to Jos for the ceremony. But I learnt a lot from the assignment. The crisis on the Plateau, as we found out, is hydra-headed, with everyone choosing to see the part that suits their narrative: illegal mining which often involves brutal attacks, cattle rustling (in some cases, poisoning) that spirals into revenge killings, unprovoked attacks and land grabbing by violent herders, ungoverned spaces that have created an epidemic of industrial scale kidnappings by amorphous groups. etc.
The mandate given us by Governor Mutfwang was to establish the number of communities that have been attacked and the approximate number of casualties from 2005 to date; establish the identities of persons who perpetrated the attacks and their possible motives and sponsors; and identify possible routes for bandits into the state and recommend measures to limit their access. We were also to recommend appropriate succour to identified victims and communities and suggest how to stop further occurrences. On the day of our inauguration, Mutfwang specifically charged us “to conduct an in-depth assess- ment of the persistent security breaches, understand the root causes, and propose actionable recommendations for lasting peace, justice, and stability in affected communities” in Plateau State.
With our assignment completed, we hope that our report will not end up on shelves like previous ones. The federal government and Plateau State have, at different times, established committees like this with recommendations that were never implemented. Such previous efforts include the Justice Niki Tobi Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the Jos Civil Disturbances, the Justice C. Okpene Federal Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Communal Conflict in Benue, Nasarawa, Plateau and Taraba States, the Rev. Pandang Yamsat High Powered Committee on Peace and Security in Plateau State, the Presidential
Peace Initiative Committee on Plateau State headed by the Emir of Zazzau, Alhaji Shehu
Idris, the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Clashes in Wase Local Government Area Headed by Justice Jummai Sankey, the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the crisis in Langtang North Local Government Area Headed by Justice Jummai Sankey, the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the Civil Disturbances in Shendam, Langtang North, Langtang South and Wase Local Government Areas Headed by Justice Felicia K. Dusu and the Justice Bola Ajibola Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the November 2008 Unrest in Jos and Environs. Having made our observations, based on what we witnessed and the engagements we had with stakeholders in all the 17 local government areas, we have also made
recommendations as to what we consider to be the path to peace and progress in the state. The ball is now squarely in the court of the governor who appointed us. Since the report will be processed by the state executive council following which a white paper will be released, I will not go into the substance of our findings or the recommendations. In any case, the assignment availed me of the opportunity to collect all the previous reports, and I may consider writing a book on the crisis at some point. For today, I want to share two field experiences which speak to the security challenge we grapple with in Nigeria.
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Adieu, Egbon Mouftah Baba-Ahmed
In the illustrious Baba-Ahmed family of Zaria, Kaduna State, Mouftah’s name may not ring a bell among the Gen-Z generation of Nigerians. Many of them would know the Baze University proprietor and Labour Party presidential running mate in the 2023 general election, Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed and retired federal permanent secretary, Dr Hakeem Baba- Ahmed. Yet, the ‘middle brother’, our beloved ‘egbon Mouftah’ (now of blessed memory), was as influential as he was prominent—even though he chose to operate from the background. Indeed, there are few Nigerians with the incredible power of networking exhibited by the late Mallam Mouftah Baba-Ahmed who belonged to the class of people described as ‘Connectors’ by Malcolm Gladwell in his book, ‘The Tipping Point’. This much was attested to by Waziri Adio’s fitting tribute last Sunday.
Highly cerebral and very knowledgeable about so many issues, egbon Mouftah obtained his first degree from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria and a Master’s from the University of Lagos before also attending Harvard Institute of International Development and London Business School. He started his career in the public sector in Lagos while still in his twenties. He was Secretary, Committee on Development Finance and International Trade, affiliated to Nigerian Industrial Development Bank (now Bank of Industry), Special Assistant to Dr. Hamza Zayyad, the legendary Chairman
of the Technical Committee on Privatisation and Communication (TCPC), precursor to the Bureau of Public Enterprise (BPE). He was also the Executive Director, Finance, Administration and Corporate Services of the National Electric Power Authority (NEPA) long before the reform of the power sector. By his mid thirties, he had moved to the private sector, where he became Chairman of NAL Bank PLC (which later merged with others to become Sterling Bank PLC), and Executive Vice Chairman of African Investment CorporationMeanwhile,etc.egbon Mouftah was a simple man who had what I would describe as a ‘Methuselah disposition’. He enjoyed being seen as an ‘elder’
despite the fact that he was born in February 1962! Like Waziri, I am also one of his numerous ‘aburos’, but on the Nigeria Collective (NC)—the chat group comprising many of the high and mighty in Nigeria which he created—he always posted my column in a certain way that has earned me a non-existent ‘title’ from many members. It started about a decade ago when he asked whether it was true that I am a deacon in the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) and I answered in the affirmative. The next week, he posted my column on NC as coming from the ‘Executive Deacon’. And from that time, until he died last week, that was the way he headlined my column every time.
From my interactions with the late egbon Mouftah, he took his faith very seriously so he could have had no greater wish than to die and be buried in Saudi Arabia. But as Datti told Waziri and I when we visited the family on Monday, the events of his last few weeks and how he moved from a London hospital to Saudi Arabia were providential and miraculous in so many ways. They were certainly not planned. While the ideal of the NC he created is now clearly on the wane, a reflection of Nigeria in so many ways, members have profited from the bonds and relationships created as a result of the interactions on the platform. And for that, many owe the late egbon Mouftah a world of gratitude. May God comfort the family he left behind.
