New Service Chiefs Get Senate Confirmation, Vow Reforms to Tackle Insecurity, Boost Troops’ Welfare
NASS okays Tinubu’s request for new external borrowing to finance 2025 budget deficit, refinance
Senate yesterday confirmed the appointment of Nigeria’s newly appointed Chief of
Defence Staff (CDS) and other service chiefs after a two-hour closed-door session.
The red chamber, also yesterday, approved President Bola Tinubu’s request to secure
a fresh $2.347 billion loan from the international capital market to part-finance the 2025 budget
deficit and refinance Nigeria’s
THISDAY Ranked Among 2025 Nigeria’s Top 50 b rands ...
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OxFORD GlObAl THINk TANk lEADERSHIP CONFERENCE...
In deference to public criticism, President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, revised downward the list of
Continued on page 10
NNPC Shops for Equity Partners to ‘High-grade’ Its Comatose Refineries
Port Harcourt, Warri, Kaduna facilities will work, says Ojulari
Prices to rise further as FG approves 15% tariff on imported fuel
Official letter indicates it will trigger N99.72 per litre increase in Lagos
But argues it will allow domestic refiners to cover costs
Emmanuel Addeh
The Nigerian National Pe- troleum Company Limited (NNPC) yesterday announced that it had begun a detailed review of Nigeria’s three petroleum refineries, with a view to bringing them back online.
In a post on his verified personal X handle last night, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the national oil company,
AREWA FORUM MEETS SHETTIMA...
L–R: National Executive, Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Maman Mike Osman; Chairman, Board of Trustees, Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu; and Vice President, Kashim
the Vice President’s meeting with delegates of the Forum at the Presidential
Deji Elumoye, Alex Enumah and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja
Shettima, during
Villa, Abuja, yesterday PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI
L–R: Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II; Coordinating Minister for the Economy and Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun; Founder, Oxford Global Think Tank, Arunma Oteh; and Founder, Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc, Atedo Peterside, during the Oxford Global Think Tank Leadership Conference in Abuja, yesterday PHOTO: KINGSLEY ADEBOYE
Sunday Aborisade and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja
in Abuja
CITIZEN–GOVERNMENT DIALOGUE ORGANISED BY AFENIFERE AND DAWN COMMISSION...
L–R: Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola; Special Adviser to the President on Energy, Olu Verheijen; Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu; Osun State Deputy Governor, Kola Adewusi; Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun; Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Noimot Salako-Oyedele; Minister of State for Health, Adekunle Salako; and Ondo State Deputy Governor, Olayide Adelami, at the South-West Stakeholders’ Citizen–Government Dialogue organised by Afenifere and DAWN Commission for officials of the President Bola Tinubu administration in Akure, on Wednesday
GTCO Reports Profit Before Tax of N900.8bn in Q3 2025
Kayode Tokede
Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO) has released its unaudited consolidated and separate financial statements for third quarter (Q3) ended September 30, 2025, to the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) and London Stock Exchange (LSE) with a profit before tax of N900.8billion.
This is on the back of strong performance on the core earnings lines of interest income and fee income which grew by 25.6per cent and 16.8per cent, respectively.
The strong core-earning performance continued to narrow the y dip in PBT to 26per cent, thereby cushioning the impact of the N523.2 billion fair value gains recognized in Q3-2024, which did not recur in Q3-2025.
The Group recorded growths across all its Asset lines and continues to maintain a well-
structured, healthy liquid and diversified balance sheet in all the jurisdictions wherein it operates a Banking franchise, as well as across its Payments, Pension and Funds Management business verticals.
Group’s total assets and shareholders’ funds closed at N16.7trillion and N3.3trillion, respectively.
The Group’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) remained very robust and strong, closing at 36.5per cent, likewise asset quality improved as evidenced by IFRS 9 Stage 3 Loans which closed at 3.3per cent and 4.4per cent at Bank and Group level in Q3-2025 (Bank 3.5per cent, Group 5.2per cent in December 2024).
Cost of Risk (COR) also improved to 2.2per cent from 4.9per cent in December 2024.
In specific terms, the Group’s loan book (net) grew by 16.5per cent from N2.79trillion as of December 2024 to N3.24trillion
in September 2025. Similarly, deposit liabilities grew by 16.0per cent from N10.40trillion to N12.06trillion during the same period.
Commenting on the results, the Group Chief Executive Of-
ficer of GTCO, Mr. Segun Agbaje, in a statement said: “Our third quarter performance underscores the consistency and resilience of our business model, as well as the continued strength of our diversified financial services
ecosystem.
“We are seeing steady, sustainable growth across our banking and non-banking businesses, supported by disciplined execution and a strong focus on operational efficiency.
“The improvements we have made to our digital and payments infrastructure are enhancing customer experience, deepening engagement, and driving greater integration across our ecosystem.”
The federal government says it has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to revitalizing Nigeria’s tertiary education sector through decisive fiscal interventions, policy reforms, and sustained dialogue with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and other university-based unions.
To this, it has released N2.3 billion, representing Batch 8
PwC Shrinks Global Workforce, Abandons 100,000 Five-year Hiring Target
Quietly cuts 5,600 staff numbers in months
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
PwC shrank its global workforce in the past year and abandoned a five-year hiring target as it grappled with slower revenue growth, internal scandals and the rise of artificial intelligence, the Financial Times has reported.
The Big Four accounting and consulting firm’s global chair, Mohamed Kande, quietly scrapped the pledge made by his predecessor in 2021 that PwC would add 100,000 to its worldwide headcount by the middle of next year, it said.
Instead, PwC cut staff numbers by 5,600 in the 12 months to June 30, according to its annual report, published on Tuesday, pushing its headcount below 365,000.
The firm would need to add more than 30,000 jobs in the current financial year to meet the target, which was not mentioned in the report.
“We continue to hit our investment targets, and we continue to hire,” Kande told the Financial Times.
“We have rolled out AI tools and upskilled over 315,000 in AI which is boosting the productivity of our people,”
he added.
According to FT, the annual report showed PwC’s global revenue rose 2.7 per cent to $57.0 billion, slower growth than in the previous year and lagging behind Big Four rivals Deloitte and EY. They have reported growth rates of 4.8 per cent and 4 per cent, respectively, after accounting for currency fluctuations.
PwC’s assurance business grew 0.9 per cent globally, after adjusting for a reorganisation that moved some service lines between divisions, and its tax business’s revenues were 2.8 per cent higher.
salary and promotion arrears to universities across the country.
The disbursements, processed through the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF), is to clear inherited backlogs and enhance the welfare of academic and non-academic staff in the tertiary education sector.
I’m a statement signed by the director in charge of media and public relations, Mrs. Folashade Boriowo, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa disclosed this in Abuja while providing updates on ongoing engage- ments with ASUU and other tertiary institution unions.
She stated that according to him, “A total of N2.311 billion, representing Batch 8 salary and promotion arrears, has been released through the Office of the AccountantGeneral of the Federation to universities. Benefiting institutions should begin to receive payment alerts anytime from now.”
“He further disclosed that the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Finance and the OAGF, is finalising the release of thirdparty non-statutory deductions and pension remittances to NUPEMCO, expected to be completed in the coming days.
“Dr. Alausa added that the government has approved the
full mainstreaming of the Earned Academic Allowance (EAA) into university staff salaries beginning from 2026, noting that this will ensure prompt, predictable, and sustainable payments going forward. In addition, funds have been released under the Needs Assessment of Nigerian Universities, with corresponding budgetary provisions made to sustain the initiative.”
The statement said the minister reaffirmed these measures demonstrate the government’s strong commit- ment to improving academic staff welfare and addressing long-standing challenges that have persisted for decades.
NERC Rolls Out Plan to Mark 20 Years of Regulating Nigeria’s Power Sector
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) yesterday announced plans for the commemoration of its 20th Anniversary, marking two decades of dedicated service in regulating and shaping the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI). The anniversary com-
memoration, NERC stated in a statement in Abuja, reflects on the Commission’s ‘remarkable’ journey — from the early challenges of its establishment, through the regulation of the unbundled power sector, the privatisation of key assets in the value chain, and the oversight of the Nigerian Electricity Market from the post-privatisation
and Interim Market stages to the Transition Electricity Market, among other milestones. Established on October 31, 2005 under the Electric Power Sector Reform Act (EPSRA) 2005—now replaced by the Electricity Act 2023—NERC said it has played a pivotal role in steering the evolution of Nigeria’s electricity market.
ELEVATE AFRICA BOTSWANA PRESS CONFERENCE...
L–R: Vice-Chair, Chandler Foundation, Tim Hanstad; CEO, Elevate Africa, Daniel Ikuenobe; Founder, Elevate Africa, Her Majesty, Olori Atuwatse III; Former President of Mauritius, Her Excellency, Ameena Gurib-Fakim; and Hon. Taa Wongbe, House of Representatives Member, District 9 – Nimba County, ECOWAS Parliament, during the Press Conference preceding the Elevate Africa Botswana Convening at Royal Aria, Gaborone, Botswana
Survey: About 17 Million New Jobs Available in Nigeria’s Care Economy
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
About 17 million new jobs could be available if the recommendations of the Dissemination of the Nigeria Time Use Survey (NTUS) conducted by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) in partnership with UN Women Nigeria are implemented. The survey revealed that
investment in the care economy in Nigeria has the potential of generating about 17 million new jobs in the country.
Speaking at the presentation of the Nigeria Time Use Survey and commemoration of the International Day of Care and Support in Abuja, yesterday, the Head, Gender and Social Inclusion, NBS, Ms. Caroline Faturoti, said the new jobs,
particularly in childcare, would primarily benefit women and contribute to reducing the gender employment gap.
Faturoti, further explained that the Survey, being the first of its kind in Nigeria, has provided critical data on how women and men allocate their time to paid and unpaid work.
She recalled that the care economy includes all paid and
unpaid activities that involve providing care and support to people throughout their lives, and encompasses sectors like healthcare, education, and social services, as well as unpaid work such as childcare and elder care within households.
She added that this sector was crucial for individual wellbeing and economic stability, though it has historically been
Genesis Energy, FG, NNPC in Strategic Collaboration to Boost Nigeria’s Power Grid, Energy Access
Genesis Energy, one of the leading pan-African clean energy infrastructure develop- ment and asset management companies, has announced a strategic collaboration with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Limited) to supply excess power generated from the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) to the national grid.
The company stated that the collaboration was in line with its commitment to advancing sustainable industrialisation and accelerating Nigeria’s
energy transition.
The announcement was made during a recent visit by the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, to Genesis Energy’s operational site within the Port Harcourt Refinery in Eleme, Rivers State.
This, the power firm stated, provided the opportunity to showcase Genesis Energy’s contribution to Nigeria’s industrial growth through the operation of the nation’s largest licenced private off-grid clean power plant (84MW). Adelabu, commended Genesis Energy’s operational
excellence and reiterated the federal government’s commit- ment to fostering a business environment that attracts and protects private-sector invest- ment in the power industry.
He stated that the gov- ernment alone could not fund the energy sector, and partnerships like the Genesis Energy–NNPC collaboration are essential to closing infra- structure gaps and delivering reliable power to industries, businesses, and households nationwide.
According to the minister, “We are ready to do every- thing possible to attract
EFCC Drags Crew, Vessel to Court for Alleged Multi-billion Naira Oil Theft
Wale Igbintade
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) yesterday, arraigned a vessel, MT Ostria, and three individuals before Justice Mojisola Dada of the Special Offenses Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos, over the alleged theft of over 13 million litres of Premium
Motor Spirit (PMS) valued at about N12 billion, belonging to NNPC Retail Limited.
The defendants, Captain Raymundo A. Panaligam, Chief Officer Roneno Villarin, both officials of MT Ostria, and Mr. Vincent Wayas, a staff member of GMO, an inspection firm representing NNPC,
were arraigned on a four- count charge bordering on conspiracy and stealing.
According to the charge, the defendants conspired to steal about 13,354,000 litres of PMS, offences said to contravene Sections 411 and 280 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015, and punishable under Section 287 of the same law.
investors to support us so that industries, businesses, and households can have uninterrupted, functional, and reliable electricity.
“We have put in place a comprehensive policy and consistent regulatory framework that ensures pri- vate sector investors can operate confidently, recover investments, and contribute meaningfully to national growth.”
undervalued, with much of the work being done by women and often underpaid orInunpaid.
his address, the Statistician General of the Federation, Adeyemi Adeniran, said the NBS, through the NTUS, has, for the first time in many years, provided robust national data on how Nigerians spend their time, including time spent on unpaid care and domestic work.
He noted, “The results are revealing. They show that women spend far more hours each day on unpaid care activities than men do.
“These are hours that sustain households and communities but often go unnoticed in our economic measurements. With this data, we can now give visibility and value to the work that truly keeps our society functioning.
“The NTUS provides evi- dence for policies that can help reduce and redistribute unpaid care work, such as through childcare services, social protec- tion, care infrastructure, and
family-friendly workplace policies.
“It also supports Nigeria’s progress on Sustainable De- velopment Goal 5.4.1, which calls for the recognition and valuation of unpaid care and domestic work.”
Adeyemi, represented by the Director, Prices and Trade Statistics, NBS, Mr. Ishaku Maigida, noted that recognising care work was not only about fairness, but also about economic sense. He added: “Investing in care and support systems creates jobs, strengthens families, and unlocks the potential of millions, especially women, to participate fully in our economy.
“As we mark the International Day of Care and Support, let us commit to a Nigeria where care is shared, supported, and celebrated, not invisible.
“Let us use the power of statistics to drive compassion into policy and to ensure that care becomes a pillar of national development.”
Africa Urged to Leverage AI for Local Solutions, Sustainable Growth
Bennett Oghifo
Microsoft Nigeria’s Country Manager, Abideen Yusuf, said supporting tech start- ups and using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to solve local challenges can drive Africa’s sustainable growth and reduce the push for migration.
Yusuf stated this in an article, “Key Milestones Offer Markers for What is to Come in The AI Era,” presenting what could be learned from the last 30 years
of technology evolution to position Africa for success in the next 30.
Yusuf said, “In Nigeria, we are already seeing the green shoots of AI opportunity.”
According to him, partnerships such as the one between the Microsoft Founders Hub and the NVIDIA Inception programme would help startups develop innovative African AI solutions.
The African financial services industry is making positive strides, with local
and pan-African fintech startups such as Wall-X and CoTrust Equity adopt- ing AI tools to offer new and personalised services for consumers and small businesses alike. Companies like Terragon and Trucki are helping drive African-led in- novation in fields as diverse as marketing and haulage management, while others like ICE Commercial Power are helping small businesses and underserved communities to connect to reliable and affordable clean energy.
Sunday Okobi
2025 NIGERIA ENERGY SUMMIT...
L–R: Group Director, Informa Markets – Energy Portfolio, Mr. Mark Ring; Group Director, SkipperSeil Limited, Mr. Jitender Sachdeva; Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu; Deputy Governor, Katsina State, Mr. Faruk Lawal Jobe; and Exhibition Director, Informa Markets – Energy Portfolio, Mr. Ade Yesufu, at the 2025 Nigeria Energy Summit in Lagos… recently
Oloworaran Reads Riot Act, Says Every Pension Deduction
Must Be Remitted, Contributions Accounted For
PenCom signs deal with ICPC to boost enforcement, recovery Declares rebranded personal pension plan to benefit 10 million Nigerians
James Emejo in Abuja and Amby Uneze in Owerri
Director-General, National Pension Commission (PenCom), Ms. Omolola Oloworaran, has vowed to ensure that every Naira deducted as pension by employers of labour was remitted, and contributions properly accounted for.
Speaking at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between PenCom and Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in Abuja, Oloworaran said, “Every worker must be assured that their future is secure.”
She stated that the ceremony went far beyond the signing of a document to signify a “shared moral and institutional commitment – a partnership
rooted in our collective resolve to strengthen integrity, transparency, and accountability in the management of pension funds in Nigeria”.
Separately, at a sensitisation workshop on the workings of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) in Owerri, yesterday, Oloworaran reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to ensuring dignity and security for Nigerian workers and retirees
under the scheme.
She said the pension system, once marred by arrears and unpaid entitlements, had evolved into a transparent, sustainable, and inclusive mechanism, protecting the retirement of over 10 million Nigerians across the public and private sectors, including self-employed individuals under the newly rebranded Personal Pension Plan (PPP).
On the parnership with ICPC, Oloworaran stressed that the pension system was built on trust, and confidence of millions of Nigerian workers who, month after month, entrusted a portion of their hard-earned income to secure dignity in their old age.
She explained that under the partnership, both institutions will work hand-in-hand to recover unapplied and unre-
mitted pension contributions; ensure prompt disbursement of recovered funds into the Retirement Savings Accounts (RSA) of contributors; and hold defaulting employers account- able in line with the law.
The deal will further ensure efficiency and seamless coordination – requiring both institutions to have designated focal officers, Director of Opera- tions from ICPC, and Director
of Surveillance from PenCom – to ensure that information sharing, investigation, and enforcement happened with speed and precision. Oloworaran pointed out that with ICPC’s enforcement authority and PenCom’s regulatory oversight, “We are confident that compliance and recovery outcomes in the pension industry will reach new heights.”
House Proposes Green Tax on Polypropylene Manufacturers
The House of Representatives has proposed the introduction of a green tax on industries engaged in the production of polypropylene, one of the
most widely used materials in plastic manufacturing.
The Green Chamber added it would also consider legislation to regulate polypropylene production and promote recycling as part of a nationwide
Stakeholders Urge SMEs to Focus on Sustainable Entrepreneurship Growth
Stakeholders from the Enterprise Développement Centre (EDC), Keystone Bank, Mastercard Foundation, and Tripoint Academy have urged small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to focus on sustainable and impactdriven entrepreneurship growth.
The stakeholders said this during the 2025 EDC SMEs conference held recently in Lagos, themed: ‘Catalysing the Future: Empowering
Small Businesses for Impact and Inclusive Growth’.
Director at EDC, Dr. Nnenna Okekearu, highlighted the organisation’s focus on sustainable and impact-driven entrepreneurship growth as the conference explores compliance, exports, and tax regulations, offering a platform for entrepreneurs to learn, connect, and collaborate.
While praising Tripoint Academy’s work in empowering over 30,000 women in 10 years, she reiterated
that EDC’s partnership with Tripoint Academy to promote inclusive growth and support women entrepreneurs also align with Keystone Bank’s commitment to impact-driven growth and entrepreneurship development.
In her keynote speech, Country Director at Mastercard Foundation, Rosy Fynn, praised EDC’s milestone 18-year conference, highlighting the significant impact of its programmes on society.
strategy to mitigate pollution and safeguard public health.
The move, the Ad-hoc Committee on Preparedness for Single-Use Plastics Ban in Nigeria said, was aimed at addressing Nigeria’s rising plastic waste crisis and ensuring that industries bear responsibility for the environmental costs of their production activities.
The chairman of the committee, Hon. Terseer Ugbor while speaking at its inaugural meeting on Wednesday in Abuja described plastic pollution as a growing menace, warning that the unchecked rise in polypropylene-based products has placed immense pressure on Nigeria’s already strained waste management systems.
He noted that the committee would engage closely with the Federal Ministry of Environment and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) to develop policy frameworks for the proposed green tax and integrate polypropylene recycling into the national waste management program.
FG Assures Contractors of Prompt Payment,
Demands Satisfactory Results
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Dr Shuaib Belgore, has assured contractors of payments, charging them on the need to produce results and evidence of seriousness to justify their payments.
“ The Ministry is moving
things along. Much more needs to be done. We need to see results and evidence of seriousness. The Director of Finance is here with me on this inspection to make your payment easier. No sluggish work”, he told the contractors Belgore spoke in Lokoja, Kogi State during his inspec- tion tour of the new federal Secretariat project site, Lokoja
national housing estate and the Ministry’s field office in Lokoja. He charged the contractors to show significant progress on site and exceed their advance payment collection before asking for valuation, saying the ministry is committed to make a huge impact in the realisation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Housing Agenda.
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja
Emma Okonji
THISDAY Ranked Among 2025 Nigeria’s Top 50 Brands
Sunday Ehigiator
For the first time, THISDAY Newspaper has been listed among the Top 50 Brands in Nigeria, as released in the 2025 edition of the annual Top 50 Brands Nigeria report.
The recognition marks a major milestone for the media organisation, which joins other leading corporate brands celebrated for excellence, consistency, and consumer trust.
Speaking during the formal presentation of the award certificate to THISDAY, at the newspaper’s corporate office yesterday, the Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder, Top 50 Brands Nigeria, Taiwo
Oluboyede, said the ranking was based on a scientific model known as Brand Strength Measurement (BSM), a composite evaluation system that assesses brands’ popularity, consumer sentiment, online engagement, and nationwide presence.
Oluboyede, explained that the 2025 edition celebrates, “the most admired and resilient brands powering Nigeria’s economy,” noting that the inclusion of THISDAY reflects its strong brand perception, credibility, and influence in shaping national discourse.
“This year, we are delighted to have THISDAY among the top 50 brands in Nigeria for the first time. We measure how
well brands meet their promise to consumers, and THISDAY has shown exceptional consistency and relevance in media performance and public trust,” he added.
The award presentation followed the official unveiling of the 2025 rankings, held earlier in October at Eko Atlantic City, Lagos, where Dangote Group retained its number-one position for the eighth consecutive year.
Receiving the award on behalf of the THISDAY management and staff, THISDAY’s Sunday Editor, Davidson Iriekpen, expressed gratitude to the organisers for the recognition.
“We are grateful for this honour, and we are not taking
it for granted. I mean, it’s a good development that this year you found us very worthy to be part of those to receive this award. We are very grateful.
“And there’s a saying that, when you are bestowed awards like this, it will spur you to do much more. Being recognised among Nigeria’s top brands will further spur us to do more and keep upholding the standards THISDAY is known for.”
Also speaking, THISDAY’s Saturday Editor, Obinna Chima, commended the organisers for making efforts to visit THIS- DAY’s office and present the award personally, while also thanking them for recognising THISDAY amongst the top 50
brands in Nigeria for the year 2025.
Also present at the award presentation event were THISDAY’s Deputy Saturday Editor, Ahamefuna Ogbu, and THISDAY’s Deputy Sunday Editor, Festus Akanbi, who both commended and appreciated the organisers for their recogni- tion of the THISDAY brand.
Speaking further, Oluboyede, who was accompanied by the Logistics Manager, Top 50 Brands, Mr. David Ogunba; Technical Consultant, Top 50 Brands, Mr. Shankar Prabakaran and Brand Advisor, Shamunga Priya, also disclosed that the Top 50 Brands Nigeria initiative, through its Brand Engagement
nn P c S H o PS F or e qu ITY PA r T ner S T o ‘H IGH - G r AD e’ I TS c om AT
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THISDAY Publisher, Prince Nduka Obaigbena
Forum, continues to advocate for a stronger, more credible Nigerian brand identity, encouraging both corporate and national rebranding efforts that reflect resilience, innovation, and trustworthiness.
S Bayo Ojulari, stated that one of the options being explored by the NNPC is to search for technical equity partners to ‘high-grade or repurpose’ the facilities.
Tagged: “Update on Our Refineries”, Ojulari stated that the NNPC continues to remain optimistic that the refineries will operate efficiently, despite current setbacks. In spite of spending about
convicted persons considered for pardon in exercise of his constitutional power of preroga- tive of Droppingmercy. a number of controversial names contained in the initial list, Tinubu issued instruments granting pardon and clemency to the affected individuals, and reduced the sentences of some convicts across the country.
Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, who disclosed the development, said the federal government had concluded the review of the Presidential Prerogative of Mercy recently granted to persons serving various jail terms in the country. This was contained in a statement yesterday.However, Senior Special As- sistant on Public Communication to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Phrank Shaibu, said Tinubu’s U-turn on pardon to some convicts was an act of shame, not wisdom.
Breaking down the review, Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, explained that certain persons convicted of serious crimes, such as kidnapping, drug-related offences, human trafficking, fraud, unlawful possession of firearms/arms dealing, etc., were deleted from the list.
Onanuga added that some who had hitherto been pardoned in the old list now had their sentences commuted.
He explained that the review became necessary considering
$3 billion on revamping the refineries, only the 60,000 barrels per day portion of the facility worked skeletally for just a few months before packing up. The Warri refinery remained comatose weeks after it was gleefully announced to have returned to production, while the Kaduna facility never took off at all.
Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, in July, estimated that
the seriousness and security implications of some of the offences, the need to be sensitive to the feelings of victims of the crimes and society in general, the need to boost the morale of law enforcement agencies, and adherence to bilateral obligations.
Onanuga stated, “The concept of justice as a three-way traffic for the accused, the victim, and the state/society also guided the review. The approved list of eligible beneficiaries has been transmitted to the Nigerian Correctional Service for implementation in line with the duly signed instruments of release.”
Tinubu had shortly after the recent Council of State meeting announced pardon for 175 inmates. But the gesture was greeted with strong criticism
maturing Eurobonds.
Similarly, the House of Representatives, yesterday, approved the president’s new external borrowing plan.
Reacting to the confirma- tion of the service chiefs, the presidency expressed delight over the senate’s prompt legislative action, describing it as a reflection of the growing synergy between the executive and the legislature under the Tinubu administration.
The decision to approve the appointments of the service chiefs was taken when the red chamber resumed open plenary, presided by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
the federal government may have spent over $18 billion over the years to revamp the three refineries without results.
Despite the deployment of these huge resources without commensurate output, nobody has been punished for any infraction by the Nigerian government.
“As of today (July), they have spent about $18 billion on those refineries, and they are
due to some of the persons listed as beneficiaries of the presidential pardon.
Chief among the names was Maryam Sanda, who was sentenced to death by hanging in 2020 by a High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), for killing her husband, Billyaminu Ahmed Bello. Her sentence was upheld by both the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court.
But the AGF had, in an apparent response to public concerns, explained that “no inmate approved for clemency under the recent exercise of the president’s power of prerogative of mercy has been released from custody”.
He added that the process remained at the final administrative stage, which included a
While addressing the federal lawmakers on their arrival before the executive session, the service chiefs pledged sweeping reforms to tackle insecurity, rebuild troop morale, and advance local defence production, if confirmed by Senate.
The nominees, drawn from the army, navy, and air force, promised to reposition the armed forces to confront the country’s security chal- lenges with fresh strategies, technology, and inter-agency cooperation.
Appearing before the senate for screening were Chief of Defence Staff nominee,
still not working. And I don’t think, and I doubt very much if they will work,” he said.
Dangote emphasised that the turnaround maintenance of the refineries was like trying to modernise a car built 40 years ago, when technology has advanced.
But sounding a note of optimism, Ojulari, who posted the message with a hashtag #Nigerian refineries will work,
standard review to ensure that all names and recommendations fully complied with established legal and procedural require- ments before the issuance of any instrument of release.
Fagbemi had said on October 16, “It is important to note that the last stage of the exercise, after approval by the Council of State, is the issuance of the instrument for the implementa- tion of the decision concerning each“Thisbeneficiary. stage affords an op- portunity for a final look at the list for remedial purposes, if any, before the instrument is forwarded to the ControllerGeneral of Corrections for necessaryHowever,action.” in the statement yesterday, Fagbemi said after the final review, “few persons
Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede; Chief of Army Staff, Major-General Waheedi Shaibu; Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Idi Abbas; and Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Kennedy Aneke. Together, they presented a unified vision: a self-reliant, technology-driven armed forces anchored on synergy, local production, and improved welfare for personnel.
Oluyede, who until recently served as Chief of Army Staff, told senators that Nigeria’s continued dependence on imported weapons was economically unsustainable and strategically risky.
explained that the NNPC has developed a strategy to ensure that this aspiration comes to fruition.
“We are filled with determination! We are looking ahead with optimism to ensure our refineries operate effectively. We are dedicating significant time to a detailed review and are eager to implement our insights.
“What fuels our drive is the
earlier recommended were found not to have met the necessary requirements and were accordingly delisted, while in some other cases, sentences were reviewed and reduced to reflect fairness, justice, and the spirit of the exercise”.
The statement said, “This exercise underscores the president’s desire to balance justice with compassion and the belief that justice must not only punish, but also reform and redeem.
“The review was undertaken with meticulous commitment to due process to reinforce the administration’s broader commitment to justice reform and humane correctional prac- tices in line with international standards.”
He said one of his priori- ties as Chief of Defence Staff would be to develop a local military-industrial base to produce critical defence hardware and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.
He said, “We can’t continue to buy equipment from abroad when our challenges are local. These things are extremely expensive. We must build our own capacity to produce what we need to fight and defend the nation.”
Oluyede, a combat veteran of peacekeeping and counterinsurgency operations in Liberia, Bakassi, and the North-east, said he would drive
understanding that the prosper- ity of the Nigerian states and the future success of Nigeria will always take precedence over any individual interests.
“This very commitment inspires us as we anticipate creating sustainable solutions for our refineries in the near future. #willwork”,#Nigerianrefineries he wrote .
Outlining the fresh plan un- der several subheadings includ- ing Technical & Commercial Review; Advanced Technical Partnerships as well as Energy Security & Asset Optimisation, the NNPC GCEO stressed that the technical equity partners to be selected, must have a track record of operating refineries to international standards.
“He wrote: “Ongoing techni- cal and commercial review for comprehensive assessment of all three refineries. To high-grade or repurpose as may be required to ensure optimal performance and“Advancedsustainability.Technical Partnerships. Select Technical Equity Partners who have a track record of operating refineries to international standards. Complete requisite agree- ments to mobilise towards implementing high-grade or repairs as required.”
intelligence-led operations, integrate technology into warfare, and strengthen collaboration among security agencies.
“Our operations will be multi-domain and multiagency. We’ll improve nightfighting capability, train more special forces, and use real-time intelligence to dominate every terrain,” he added.
He also vowed to make the welfare of troops a central pillar of his leadership, describing morale as “the backbone of fighting power.” He stated, “I will prioritise improved housing, healthcare,
PRIVATE SCREENING OF THE DOCUMENTARY “MAMA NIKE: QUEEN OF ADIRE”...
L-R: Founder, Design Week Lagos, Ms Titi Ogufere; Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka; Founder of Nike Art Gallery, Chief (Mrs.) Nike Davies-Okundaye; and her daughter, Mrs. Caroline Davies, during the Private Screening of the documentary “Mama Nike: Queen of Adire” held at the J. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Onikan, Lagos Island, Lagos... recently
Shettima Wants ACF to Stand In Solidarity With Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda
Says all groups, communities, faiths, have a say in national conversation under President’s watch Urges resistance against mischief makers seeking to divide Nigeria
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Vice President Kashim Shettima on Wednesday charged the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) to stand in solidarity with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.
According to him, “there
is no better time than now for the leaders of the North to stand together as one” in support of efforts by the Tinubu administration to wriggle the nation out of the economic and social morass it was hitherto enmeshed in.
The Vice President canvassed the position while
receiving in audience a delegation from the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) led by Chairman of its Board of Trustees, Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu, at the State House,ShettimaAbuja.told members of the region’s apex sociocultural organisation to resist
the antics of a few mischief makers to fragment the unity ofHeNigeria. drew the distinction between greed and grievance as propounded by those he described as “architects of modern conflict,” observing that, “while some agitations arise from genuine griev-
Africa Leadership Foundation Launches First Pan-African Gender Budgeting Network to Advance Inclusive Devt
To strengthen gender equal- ity and inclusive governance across the continent, the Africa Leadership Foundation (ALF) launched the first-ever PanAfrican platform dedicated to advancing gender-responsive budgeting (GRB) and inclusive fiscal policies called the African Gender Budgeting Network (AGEBUN).
African Gender Budgeting Network (AGEBUN) was initiated by the Africa Leader- ship Foundation in response to the outcomes of its previous gender programmes, which
stressed the critical need for a sustained platform that connects practitioners, policymakers, researchers, and advocates beyond one-off engagements.
The importance of such a plat- form was further reiterated by gender machineries during the Regional Advocacy Workshop on Gender-Responsive Budgeting, organised by the ALF, which was attended by over 600 gender machineries, advocates, gender equality experts, and enthusiasts from across 31 African countries.
The network was convened by ALF in partnership with UN Women, the UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), the
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the African Union Commission’s Women, Gender and Youth Directorate (AUC WGYD), and Oxfam in Africa (OiA).
It marked a significant milestone in Africa’s ongoing efforts to institutionalise gender- responsive budgeting (GRB) as a standard practice within national and regional fiscal systems.
Delivering the opening session at the launch, Dr. Olumide Ajayi, the Executive Director of the Africa Leadership Foundation, reaffirmed ALF’s leadership and vision in driving the “Gender-responsiveinitiative. budget-
MultiChoice Nigeria Takes the Fight Against Piracy to Schools
In a bid to nurture a new generation of originality- driven Nigerians, MultiChoice Nigeria recently held an Anti-Piracy Sensitisation Programme at Kuramo Senior College, Victoria Island, Lagos. The outreach targeted secondary school students, aiming to help them under- stand the dangers of piracy and importance of protecting
creative work from an early age.The interactive session featured legal experts and creative industry figures, who connected with the students through storytelling, games, and open conversations. They discussed how piracy deprives filmmakers, actors, musicians, and other creatives of their rewards, while also
discouraging investors and limiting creative opportunities for young talent across the value chain.
The highlight of the session was a lively and insightful class led by Mr. Obafemi Agaba, a legal practitioner with extensive experience in intellectual property, corporate commercial law and entertainment rights.
ing is not new to Africa, but it remains underutilised due to limited knowledge, weak capacity, and widespread misconceptions.
“AGEBUN was established to bridge these gaps through knowledge sharing, peer learning, and coordinated advocacy, connecting practitioners, advocates, and stakeholders with the tools and resources needed to make fiscal systems truly inclusive,” he said.
ances seeking justice and fairness, others are fuelled by greed—by the quest to exploit disorder for selfish gain.”
He said the task before the Tinubu government is to spot the difference between genuine grievance and greed, with a view to embracing “legitimate calls for equity and inclusion, and to isolate the forces that seek to profit from chaos.”
“We have proven, time and again, that our diversity is our strength, that our differences in tribe, faith, and geography are the very bricks that make this house of destiny we live in. This is why we must continue to resist all attempts to divide us or stir mischief among us. Our future depends on unity, and unity must remain our creed,” he stated.
Dispelling claims of ethnic and religious slant by peddlers of marginalisation,
the Vice President stated categorically that every group, faith, and tribe has a voice in national issues under the Tinubu administration, and that no group willHismarginalized. words: “What we do as a government is to ensure that every group, every community, every faith, and every voice finds its place in the national conversation. We will never accommodate the marginalisation of any group. Our policies are designed to create opportunities for all—to lift every community through inclusion, education, andShettimaenterprise.”assured the northern leaders that they are an integral part of the Tinubu-led federal government, and that the administration is ready to partner with the ACF in advancing the cause of the region and the nation as a whole.
Ogun Restates Support for Investors through Sound Policies, Infrastructure
Ogun State Government has restated its commitment to supporting investors and manufacturers through sound policies, solid infrastructure and meaningful partnerships.
The commitment of the gov- ernment was expressed by the Special Adviser to the Governor and Deputy Director-General of the Ogun State Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency (OgunInvest), Ms. Sola Arobieke.
Arobieke spoke at the com-
missioning of the N1.3 billion Monolithic Refractory Plant of African Refractory and Allied Products (ARAP), a subsidiary of the African Industries Group (AIG), in Ogijo, Sagamu Local Government Area.
She asserted that the ongoing industrial expansion is driven by the reforms and investor- friendly policies of Governor DapoArobiekeAbiodun.described the inaugurated project as a milestone that reflects the synergy between government and the private sector.
She said, “Under His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, the Ogun State Government remains fully committed to supporting investors and manufacturers through sound policies, solid infrastructure, and meaningful partnerships.
She noted that the new facility, which is the first of its kind in Nigeria and West Africa, would serve multiple industries such as steel, cement, glass, aluminium, and food processing, helping Nigeria reduce its steel import bill and strengthen its manu- facturing base.
James Sowole in Abeokuta
Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo
FEaturEs
RichyGold Boss and His Vision Beyond Profit for Children
For Lagos-based industrialist, High Chief Richard Ifeanyi Agbapuru, business is not just about profit, bit about purpose, people, and posterity. His latest venture, the Victoria Hall and Children’s Playground in Okota, Lagos, stands as proof of this vision. Named after his youngest daughter, Victoria, the exquisite facility blends leisure and love, offering a safe, vibrant space where children can play, families can bond, and communities can celebrate together. Uzoma Mba writes
It was a Sunday afternoon that blended business ingenuity with family joy, faith, and community spirit as High Chief Richard Ifeanyi Agbapuru, a Lagos-based industrialist and Chairman of RichyGold Group of Companies, officially unveiled Victoria Hall and Children’s Playground, an elegant addition to Lagos’ growing recreational and event landscape.
The newly commissioned facility, located at 223 Ago-Palace Way, Okota, Lagos, is part of the expanding RichyGold Homes and Estates, a subsidiary of RichyGold Group. The project adds to Agbapuru’s profile as a visionary entrepreneur whose ventures continue to balance profit, purpose, and people-centred impact.
The event drew an impressive list of dignitaries and social personalities. Members of Agbapuru’s elite Hazie International Social Club of Nigeria and Ugomba Social Club were present in large numbers, adding glamour and fellowship to the day. Business associates, clergy, and community leaders also attended, commending Agbapuru’s commitment to community development through his investments.
A Blend of Celebration and Purpose
The event, which doubled as a birthday celebration for Agbapuru’s youngest daughter, Victoria, after whom the new hall and playground were named, was attended by hundreds of well-wishers, friends, and business associates from different walks of life. Despite a heavy downpour earlier in the day that caused significant traffic in the area, the atmosphere at the venue brimmed with joy and festivity.
The commissioning began with a solemn prayer and dedication led by Rev. Fr. Victor Mbakwe of the Orlu Diocese, Imo State, who is currently on mission in Edo State. The Catholic priest blessed the building complex and its facilities, describing the project as “a place created for the good of humanity.”
“This place is created for the good of humanity in general,” Rev. Fr. Mbakwe declared, sprinkling holy water across the facility. “We pray for more blessings for High Chief Agbapuru whose idea and generosity made this vision possible.”
A Facility Built for Children’s Joy
The Victoria Hall and Playground was clearly designed with children’s happiness and safety in mind. The ground floor of
the building houses an indoor play hall equipped with high-grade recreational installations, from bouncing castles and trackless trains to air power bikes, openroof toy cars, a snooker board, and a simulated basketball machine. Every corner of the space reflects the attention to detail that defines RichyGold’s standard of quality and innovation.
For Agbapuru, this latest venture is not just another business expansion; it is a gift of joy and a legacy of love inspired by his daughter. “Naming the hall after Victoria is symbolic,” a family source said. “It reflects the Chief’s belief in family values and in creating a safe and happy environment where children can play, laugh, and learn.”
Cutting the Ribbons, Opening the Doors
In a moment charged with emotion and applause, Pharmacist Ogechi Ekeh cut the ceremonial red ribbon at the playground, declaring it open to the public. Shortly after, Mayor Edward Maduka performed the honour of cutting the second ribbon, unveiling the Victoria Event Hall.
The hall itself, designed to accommodate up to 500 guests, stands as a modern and versatile venue ideal for weddings, receptions, birthdays, and social gatherings. With its aesthetic design, spacious parking area, and family-friendly ambience, it is expected to quickly become one of the most
sought-after event destinations in the Okota axis.
The atmosphere was electric as DJ Steve, an ace entertainer, took over the console, delivering a rich mix of continental tunes that kept guests on their feet. Complementing the disc jockey’s performance, a traditional Igbo music group thrilled the audience with rhythmic cultural renditions that added a touch of heritage to the modern setting.
Children, who were clearly the stars of the day, revelled in the new playground’s attractions, running around in excitement, dancing to cheerful music, and trying out the array of play equipment. The highlight came when little Victoria, the day’s celebrant, joined her parents and siblings to cut her birthday cake amid cheers, music, and flashing cameras.
“It’s a beautiful combination of business and love,” said a guest. “The Chief has created something that will bring joy not only to his family but to the entire community.”
A Vision Beyond Profit
Over the years, High Chief Richard Ifeanyi Agbapuru has built a reputation as a businessman whose investments go beyond profit margins. Through RichyGold Group of Companies, he has continued to expand into sectors such as real estate, construction, and hospitality, always with a focus on
quality and social value.
Speaking informally during the event, a close associate of the Chief noted that the RichyGold boss remains committed to initiatives that promote community well-being. “For him, business must serve society,” the associate said. “This playground is a reflection of that principle, it’s a place where families can connect, children can play safely, and happy memories can be made.”
A Legacy of Joy
As the day wound down, the laughter of children echoed through the compound, blending with music and conversation. The rain that once threatened to dampen the occasion seemed long forgotten as the sun cast a warm glow on the colourful playground.
By the end of the event, one thing was clear: Victoria Hall and Playground is more than a new business venture. It is a testament to Agbapuru’s vision of combining enterprise with empathy, creating not just spaces for profit, but environments for people to live, celebrate, and grow together.
The playground, now open daily to the public, promises to become a cherished destination for families seeking safe, modern, and affordable recreation in Lagos. And for High Chief Richard Ifeanyi Agbapuru, the success of the launch marked not just another business milestone, but the joyful continuation of a legacy built on faith, family, and the happiness of others.
High Chief Agbapuru, Rev. Fr. Mbakwe and Mrs. Agbapuru
Pharm. Ogechi Ekeh who unveiled the centre
The celebrant, family and guests
Victoria the celebrant and the children who graced the occasion
Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com
08033025611 sms only
Electoral Issues: How Far Can ‘Prof Integrity’ Go?
Iyobosa Uwugiaren contends that while it might make sense to appoint a principled man as the head of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Nigerians need to be persuaded that modifications are genuine and warrant their confidence.
What really informed the recent appointment of the new INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN), by President Bola Tinubu, who is seeking second term in office - with strong oppositions, working day and night to kick him out of office in the 2027 general elections? Could it be that the President is truly interested in free, fair and credible elections – as he recently alluded?
At the swearing-in ceremony held at the State House Council Chamber recently, President Tinubu admonished Professor Amupitan, SAN, to serve with integrity and beyond reproach.
“Your nomination and the subsequent confirmation by the Senate are a testament to your capacity and the confidence reposed in you by both the executive and the legislative arms of government.
“This significant achievement marks the beginning of a challenging, yet rewarding journey, and I trust that you will approach your responsibility with the highest level of integrity, dedication and patriotism,” the President said.
President Tinubu noted that the country had been on a path of democratic governance and learning since 1999, with notable achievements in the strengthening of various institutions.
He added, “Our democracy has come a long way in 25 years. We have consolidated and strengthened our democratic institutions, particularly in electoral systems, through innovations and reforms.
“We have learned a great deal along the way and have improved significantly from where we were many years ago. We must now remain committed to the principles that underpin democracy in a complex and multifaceted society.
“The electoral process is a vital part of a democracy that grants the people the exclusive right to choose their leaders and shape their future. To ensure that our democracy continues to flourish, the integrity of our electoral process must be beyond reproach.”
President Tinubu stated that the governorship election on November 8, 2025, in Anambra State will serve as a litmus test for the new leadership of the new INEC chairman
“It is important that our elections are free, fair and credible. We must consistently improve our electoral process, addressing the challenges of yesterday and innovating for today and tomorrow.
“To maintain public trust in the election, electoral integrity must be protected. All aspects of the process – from registration to campaigning, the media access, voting and counting should be transparent, non–violent and credible’’, Tinubu advised.
However, in a tempestuous, polluted and corrupt political echo system, which currently exists in the country, not many political analysts and observers doubt that Tinubu’s advice to the new INEC boss is sheer grandiloquence.
Yes, everyone – including his colleagues in the university community, his students and others - who know him very well, have attested to the strong moral principles and values - even in challenging situations, of Professor Amupitan.
Going by several testimonies – since he got the new job, Amupitan is said to have demonstrated high standards of honesty, fairness, and transparency in academic and personal endeavors. He is said to have taken ownership of actions, decisions, and their impact on students, colleagues, and the institution, where he had worked.
Like someone put it, ‘’He thinks critically, logically, and analytically, with a sound and balanced perspective, possessing a deep understanding of his field, with a keen sense of judgement and decision-making.’’
Amid all these sound values, some nihilists have argued that it will be absolutely impossible for Prof Amupitan to discharge his assignments - in line with his principles without running into trouble – especially in a political space where the political hawks fest.
While the new INEC chairman may have sworn to obey his conscience – in performing his assignments, there are many challenges he would have to contend with, especially as the nation approaches 2027 general elections.
The nation’s electoral systems have grasped recent updates and tenacious trials, including the application of new technology and issues concerning transparency and violence.
For example, the existing Electoral Act makes provision for Bi-modal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) - this device validates voters using fingerprints or facial recognition and transmits polling unit results to the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal.
The INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal is designed to improve result management, enhance transparency, and increase public confidence by allowing the public to view copies of polling unit results.
The Act also redefined over-voting and placed a high burden of proof on petitioners. Aggrieved contestants are now required to provide polling unit results (Form EC8A), BVAS ma-
chines, and the voter register to prove that the number of votes cast exceeded the number of accredited voters and other reforms.
However, in spite of these conspicuous reforms, issues of electoral fraud, including rigging and vote-buying, have continued to dominate conversations around electoral systems. For instance, the legitimacy of the 2023 general elections was stubbornly contested by both the local and international observers.
Perhaps, that is why despite the recent appointment of ‘’Professor Integrity’’ as the INEC chairman, many sound political scholars have continued to argue that the President’s power to appoint the leadership of INEC is a direct action to compromise the commission’s independence.
Another issue is the persistent deterioration in voters turnout, which some have attributed to a ‘’lack of public trust.’’ Observers said that the outcome of the 2023 elections was a major factor in the lack of confidence. This can partly be seen in the electoral violence and intimidation, where violent incidents were recorded in several states. To this end, many maintain that Prof Amupitan would have to wrestle with many roguish political demons to be able to act according to his principles.
But, there are those who believe that the INEC chairman may go far if he starts working with the civil society and other stakeholders in order to consistently push for further electoral reforms to address the noticeable persistent challenges.
To make sure that electoral process has integrity, other dynamics outside of the electoral institutions need to be taken into account and reinforced. In other words, election officials, judicial officials (judges) and courts must have independence that is respected by all electoral stakeholders. These are the challenges the new InEC chairman face currently. How far can he go?
According to them, the National Assembly needs to be pushed to accelerate the amendment to the Electoral Act – to address those issues that came up from the last general elections.
Following the 2023 elections, there have been pronounced renewed calls for accountability for electoral offences to deter future electoral fraud. Recent judicial pronouncements have influenced electoral jurisprudence, particularly concerning the requirements for proving over voting. And Senator Seriake Dickson’s recent argument on the way to go seems to be resonating with many stakeholders.
The former Bayelsa State governor and member of the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, recently called for a fundamental reform of Nigeria’s electoral framework to reinforce transparency and accountability in the conduct of elections.
Dickson said one of the key proposals under discussion in the ongoing amendment of the Electoral Act is to ensure that the burden of proof in election disputes rests with the INEC rather than with candidates or political parties.
“The burden of proof in electoral matters must shift to INEC. That is where it rightly and properly belongs,” Dickson said. “We should not subject it to the normal evidential rule that says, he who alleges must prove. How can you prove something you don’t even know?’’
There is also a suggestion that the voter register should be clear up and increase access to polling units in collaboration with national identification agencies and revamp civic education, especially for rural voters, to increase understanding of the electoral process and the importance of participation.
To improve Nigeria’s electoral laws, recent proposals and reforms from various stakeholders must focus on increasing transparency, strengthening independent institutions, and expounding legal and administrative processes. The National Assembly is advised to move very fast to work in passing a new electoral bill - incorporating many of these recommended changes.
The contributions by civil society organizations and the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) make sense to many electoral stakeholders. They have proposed unbundling of the INEC. The current structure according to them, tasks INEC with three major responsibilities: conducting elections, regulating political parties, and prosecuting electoral offenders.
They proposed a reform that would transfer political party registration and regulation to an independent authority, and create a separate body to prosecute electoral offenses, and allow the INEC to focus its resources on its core mandate of election management.
In all, there is a sound argument for the enhancement of electoral technology and transparency. The current Electoral Act makes provision for electronic transmission of results, but experts have argued that the vagueness surrounding its implementation led to issues in the 2023 general election. They therefore suggested that the new bill currently before the National Assembly should provide clearer legal backing for the use of electronic technology for transmitting election results.
Several calls have been made for INEC to strengthen its digital infrastructure and expand its result management processes to minimalize errors and reduce opportunities for manipulation. Amending the Electoral Act to extend the 21-day deadline for filing election petitions, according to sound legal minds, may allow more realistic timelines for case preparation.
Amupitan
Gamin G Week
Edited by nseobonG okon-ekonG | gamingweek1117@gmail.com
What Nigeria’s Exit from FATF Grey List Means for Gaming Industry
Iyke Bede writes that Nigeria’s recent removal from the FATF grey list affirms that the reforms undertaken by government agencies and gaming operators to curb money laundering, terrorism financing, and other illicit activities have gained international recognition
When Nigeria landed on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list in February 2023, the world read it as a warning: the country’s systems for fighting money laundering and terrorist financing were not strong enough. That single designation quietly reshaped how global banks and investors viewed Nigerian entities. And for a sector like gaming, one built on high transaction volumes, digital payments, and consumer trust, the impact was immediate and costly.
For nearly two years, Nigerian gaming operators operated under heightened suspicion. Banks became wary of onboarding betting platforms. Payment partners delayed integrations. International investors either paused their plans or demanded extra layers of due diligence. Even legitimate companies found themselves drawn into a climate of caution.
When GAMINGWEEK wrote ‘In
Increased Scrutiny on Gaming Sector’ in THISDAY earlier this year, the signs were clear: Nigeria was responding to FATF pressure. The EFCC and NFIU, in conjunction with industry umbrella associations such as the Association of Nigeria Bookmakers, the Association of Casino Owners and Gaming Operators, and the Nigerian Licensed Lottery Operators Forum, had begun hosting compliance sessions for gaming operators, pushing for stronger KYC, better record-keeping, and transparent ownership structures. Those trainings were more than routine oversight; they were part
of the country’s broader effort to align with the FATF action plan. The reforms taking place within gaming mirrored the national push to fix structural weaknesses that had landed Nigeria on the watch list in the first place.
Now, Nigeria’s removal from the grey list in October 2025 is more than a symbolic victory. It confirms that those reforms have been recognised internationally. For the gaming industry, it opens doors that have been halfshut since 2023. Operators can expect smoother banking relationships, fewer delays with payment partners, and a gradual return of investor confidence. The reputational drag that once followed gaming firms in financial circles may begin to fade, provided the progress continues.
But the delisting is not a pass to relax. FATF’s decision does not erase the vulnerabilities that were flagged. It simply means Nigeria has made enough measurable progress to exit the monitoring phase. The gaming sector, globally classified as a designated nonfinancial business, remains highly exposed to illicit finance risks — especially in areas such as microtransactions, crossborder play, and digital wallets. Without continuous oversight, those same risks could return in new forms.
Sustained efforts by the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority to place player welfare at the centre of gaming regulation have earned international recognition, writes Nseobong Okon-Ekong.
The Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LSLGA) has been named the winner of the prestigious ‘Regulatory Innovation Award’ at the International Regulatory Awards 2025, organised by the International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) in Toronto, Canada. This global recognition highlights LSLGA’s
pioneering achievement with SAFEPLAY — Africa’s first regulator-led, multi-operator self-exclusion platform, centrally managed by the Authority and seamlessly integrated with licensed operators. SAFEPLAY has become a benchmark model for player protection, reinforcing LSLGA’s commitment to responsible gaming and the well-being of citizens.
While receiving the award, Mr. Bashir Are, CEO of LSLGA, expressed deep appreciation to IAGR for the honour and called on fellow regulators to adopt proactive frameworks that protect citizens, ensuring that gaming remains a safe and enjoyable form of entertainment rather than a source of social distress.
Charles Akhenamen challenges Nigeria’s gaming regulators and operators to replace hollow disclaimers with meaningful, enforceable actions that put player welfare first
If you’ve ever placed a bet or bought a lottery ticket in Nigeria, you know the familiar disclaimer: ‘18+ Only. Bet Responsibly’. These words are everywhere, plastered on betting shop windows, flashed in app banners, and squeezed into TV ads. They are meant to signal that the industry cares about player welfare. But when these warnings become mere wallpaper, a compliance checkbox rather than a genuine commitment, the consequences can be devastating.
The global gambling industry has already learned this lesson the hard way. And unless Nigeria’s operators and regulators move beyond slogans to substance, we may find ourselves walking the same painful path.
Lessons from abroad
The United Kingdom, often held up as the gold standard of gambling regulation, has spent the past few years battling scandals, lawsuits, and heavy fines. One of the most talked-about cases is that of Lee Gibson, a millionaire property investor who lost £1.5 million on Betfair Exchange over a decade of high-stakes betting. He placed more than 30,000 bets — sometimes up to £20,000 on obscure matches — and was treated as a VIP client. Now, he is suing the company, arguing that Betfair “knew or ought to have known” he was addicted and should have intervened.
Britain’s Gambling Commission has been anything but lenient. In 2023, it fined William Hill £19.2 million for failing to protect customers and prevent money
Season Three of Compliance Training for Operators, EFCC, NFIU Highlight
Boston Consulting Group (BCG) has released its latest report titled: ‘Bridging Africa’s Infrastructure Execution Gap,’ which highlights a promising shift, revealing how the continent’s portfolio of approximately 130 transnational projects across trade, energy, transport, digital, and water sectors can be rapidly accelerated through innovative coordination and strategic private sector partnership.
Although Africa has
Omolabake Fasogbon
As Africa’s Interior design market continues to impress, with projections indicating a potential market share of around $35 billion by 2030, conversations around embracing native and home-sourced materials to produce bespoke designs
historically encountered obstacles in delivering on its infrastructure goals that support the listed sectors, the report estimated that the 130 transnational projects have the potential to unlock up to $6 billion in GDP value for every $1 billion invested.
Analysis undertaken by BCG demonstrates that Africa possesses all the fundamental building blocks for infrastructure success— political commitment, identified projects, available financing mechanisms, and proven delivery models. With strategic coordination
and targeted interventions, the continent can transform its development trajectory whilst creating 74 million new jobs and generating $500 billion in additional economic value, the report said.
Key regional achievements showcased in the report provided blueprints for continental expansion.
According to the report, North Africa’s electrification success demonstrates what’s possible when infrastructure delivery is prioritised, whilst East Africa’s progress in trade facilitation has delivered tangible results, Kenya’s
post-2010 trade value growth outperformed regional peers through harmonised customs systems and one-stop border posts. These successes prove that strategic infrastructure investments can rapidly transform economic prospects when properly coordinated.
“Nigeria, as the continent’s largest economy, plays an important role in the West African Power Pool (WAPP), an initiative aiming to connect and stabilise energy grids across the region and enable efficient electricity trade for millions. The
WAPP has achieved notable milestones in improving regional energy cooperation, though it continues to face regulatory and financing challenges,” the report said, adding that Nigeria’s efforts in harmonising market rules and supporting publicprivate partnerships are making a positive impact, but sustained collaboration will be essential to achieving reliable and affordable power across West Africa.
Analysing the report, Managing Director & Partner at BCG Lagos, and co-author of the report, Tolu Oyekan,
said: “Africa’s infrastructure opportunity is both significant and attainable. We are seeing steady progress in various regions, key to accelerating this growth however is reviewing and replicating success elements from models like the West African Power Pool. We are seeing how Nigeria’s focus on regional coordination and regulatory consistency is advancing energy access and fostering stronger economic integration across West Africa.”
that resonate with Africans have continued to gain momentum.
Stakeholders believe this is a right step to drive global competitiveness unlock new opportunities beyond current record, and showcasing Nigeria and Africa’s rich cultural and traditional elements to the world.
At the just concluded African Interior Design Congress (AIDC) 2025, held in Lagos, the urgency to switch to innovative designs that reflect continent’s culture, climate and lifestyle took the centre stage, with industry leaders noting however that absence of policy and regulatory
framework is hindering local manufactuters from looking inward.
Hosted by the Interior Designers Association of Nigeria (IDAN), on behalf of African Council for Interior Architects Designers(ACIAD), in partnership with Design Week Lagos, AIDC brought together leading designers,
academics, and policymakers from across Africa to shape a unified vision for the continent’s design future under the theme, “Policy, Practice & People: Aligning Interior Design with Africa’s Needs.”
Speaking, Founder, ACIAD and Co-Convener, AIDC, Titi Ogufere said the
gathering was necessitated by growing dependence of African designers on Western ideals.
She stressed that it was high time regional players took charge of the game by investing in local talents, research and produculture.
Emma Okonji
NIGERIA’S FIRST INFORMAL ECONOMY AI CHATBOT…
L-R: Senior Special Assistant to the President on Digital Media and Emergency Management, Ahmed Ningi; Managing Director, Moniepoint MFB, Babatunde Olofin; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; and Special Adviser to the President on Job Creation & MSME, Temitola Adekunle-Johnson, during the launch of Moniepoint AI Chatbot in Abuja… recently
Unicloud Set to Drive Local Data Traffic with Currency Billing
Stories by Emma Okonji
Unicloud Africa, the premier pan-African cloud platform dedicated to advancing the continent’s digital sovereignty, has launched its enterprisegrade Sovereign Cloud and Artificial Intelligence (AI) infrastructure in six African countries - Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, Zambia, Senegal, and Mozambique.
With the launch, which was announced at a press conference in Lagos, Unicloud Africa said it is set to redefine Africa’s digital landscape by empowering enterprise and governments with unprecedented control and performance.
Speaking at the press conference, CEO of Unicloud Africa, Mr. Ladi Okuneye, explained that the platform
Huawei, arravo to Enhance Customer Experience
Huawei Technology, in partnership with arravo, has demystified the operations of contact centre with its AI-powered contact centre solution to enhance customers’ communication experience.
Designed to reduce the call waiting time of customers, the Huawei AI Contact Centre (AICC) solution, operates real time communication with 360 degrees view and allows for integration, since it is cloud-based.
Speaking at a customer forum in Lagos recently, organised jointly by Huawei and its partner, arravo technology solutions provider,
the Director of Sales at arravo, Onyinlola Okunfolami, highlighted the benefits of the solution for both small and enterprise customers that are seeking to scale up their businesses.
“The AICC solution enables customers to leverage on Artificial Intelligence (AI) to have more enhanced customer experience, which has to do with faster response time, customer support, personalised experience and consistence in service delivery without any glitches. The bottom line is to improve sales and increase productivity,” Okunfolami said.
Zoho Expands AI Access with Free Agentic Tools for Businesses
Zoho, a global technology company, has announced the launch of new agentic AI features across three key product categories— collaboration, customer experience, and human resources.
The new capabilities are designed to help businesses enhance productivity, automate routine tasks, and focus on higher-value work. The features are available immediately at no additional cost across Zoho’s suite of business applications.
The announcement builds
on Zoho’s broader AI strategy, which includes Zia Hubs, a system that enables AI access to unstructured company data, and Zia LLM, Zoho’s proprietary large language model developed specifically for business use. Alongside Zia, Zoho’s long-standing AI assistant, these innovations form the foundation of the company’s agentic AI approach—helping businesses gain deeper insights and efficiency from their data across Zoho’s platform of more than 55 integrated applications.
remained the foundation for Africa’s true Digital and Financial Independence.
According to him, Unicloud Africa will be offering financial
sovereignty and predictable costs that will help drive local traffic by keeping local data local within Nigeria, in order to eliminate the financial
uncertainty and hidden costs that hinder growth.
It will also offer local currency billing to enable enterprises pay for world-
class cloud services in their local currency, eliminating the burden of foreign exchange (FX) volatility and unpredictable costs.
ITU Member States, Others Chart Pathway for Global Connectivity
Global leaders from among the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) member states, Nigeria inclusive, and the global digital development community are set to draw up a new roadmap for inclusive digital development at the World Telecommunication Development Conference 2025
(WTDC-25), taking place in Baku, Azerbaijan.
Speaking about the importance of the gathering, ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin, said: “For the 2.6 billion unconnected, digital development is more than a technical challenge. It’s a test of our collective commitment to an inclusive, sustainable
digital future for all. WTDC-25 is our moment to transform that commitment into action so that everyone, everywhere, can benefit from technology.”
With full preparation for the hosting, Azerbaijan’s Minister of Digital Development and Transport, Rashad Nabiyev, said: “Hosting WTDC-25 in Baku, the first
in the Commonwealth of Independent States, is an honour and a historic vote of confidence from the ITU, forged over three decades of partnership since 1992. Providing the venue for this important conference underscores Azerbaijan’s rising leadership in meaningful connectivity.
IHS Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Sustainable Infrastructure
Stories by Agnes Ekebuike
IHS Nigeria has reiterated its commitment to advancing sustainability, environmental stewardship, and community empowerment through responsible telecommunication infrastructure.
This reaffirmation came
during the Sustainability Table Discourse Series (STS) themed: ‘Sustainability in Action: Scaling the Impact of a Thriving Future to Achieve the SDGs,’ where industry leaders, policy makers, and private sector players converged to discuss the role of collaboration, innovation, and circular
economy models in achieving Nigeria’s sustainability goals. Director, Government and External Relations, IHS Nigeria, Gimba Mohammed, who represented the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, IHS Nigeria, Kazeem Oladepo, delivered the keynote address titled:
‘Sustainability in Action: Scaling Impact for a Thriving Future Through Sustainable Telecommunications Infrastructure – A Provider’s Perspective.’ In his remarks, he emphasised that sustainability remained central to IHS’s operations and long-term strategy.
How Google Disrupted Advertising with Mainstream
The introduction of Google mainstream search 25 years ago, disrupted what used to be the norm of advertising that was built around interruption, according to Google’s latest release on its 25th anniversary celebration of mainstream search.
Giving details of the digital
disruption caused in the last 25 years in the advertising industry with the introduction Google’s mainstream search, and the additional disruption that Google intends to create in the next 25 years, the Director, Google West Africa, Mr. Olumide Balogun, said before the introduction of
mainstream search 25 years ago, businesses pushed their messages out to everyone on TV, in magazines, and on the radio, hoping the right person might see or hear their ad.
According to him, 25 years ago, mainstream search changed everything and flipped the old model completely.
Search
Instead of businesses just pushing ads out, customers started actively searching for what they needed. This big shift from ‘interruption’ to ‘intent’ acted as a powerful equalising force for businesses, and its evolution continues to define the trajectory of e-commerce in Africa.
Airtel Africa Highlights Importance of building Africa’s Digital Future
Airtel Africa, a leading provider of telecommunications and mobile money services across 14 African countries, has highlighted industry partnerships, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data centres as critical pillars for delivering Africa’s digital future.
According to Airtel Africa’s Chief Executive
Officer, Sunil Taldar, this will shape the next decade of Africa’s telecom revolution, marking a shift from merely connecting people to enabling them to create value through such connections.
In a keynote address at the Mobile World Congress (MWC25) in Kigali, Rwanda, Taldar said: “Africa’s digital decade
has begun. The continent that once leapfrogged into mobile telephony is now ready to leap again - into an era where every byte of data fuels productivity and every connection builds prosperity.”
According to him, “Africa is ready for its next leap from access to productivity. This requires partnership — between
operators who co-build, technology manufactures who equip, regulators who enable, investors who believe, tax regimes which support and young Africans who create. Together we can build a continent where data is processed locally, talent is nurtured nationally, and innovation is scaled globally,”
Shaping Africa’s Industries with AI, Health Tech
Fresh voices from the intersection of Artificial Intelligence, heath technology and communications are beginning to shape industries from across Africa, writes
Emma Okonji
For many, it might be difficult to begin to imagine how Artificial Intelligence (AI), health tech, and the media intersect.
For obvious reasons, AI, driven by the big multi-billion dollar companies, has been marketed as a futuristic productivity tool and a superintelligent personal assistant that can significantly boost productivity. However, the over-promotion of AI as a productivity enhancer, or miracle tool, appears to have buried other intricate values that this technology, when used appropriately, could unlock values with the potential to solve or help solve one of the world’s biggest problems- inadequate healthcare.
In Africa, a continent of more than 1.5 billion people, nearly half of its population does not have adequate access to healthcare. Most countries on the continent allocate less than the WHO’s recommended 15 per cent of a nation’s budget to healthcare. But underfunding is not the only issue plaguing Africa’s health systems.
According to WHO data, there are more than 10,000 patients to one doctor in some countries, well over the global standard of 1,000 to one doctor. The insufficiency of doctors has led to numerous issues, from pregnant women not receiving the medical attention they deserve during delivery to doctors’ exhaustion from working long hours amid little pay. The question therefore is how can AI help solve Africa’s pitiable healthcare challenges?
AI Assisting African Doctors
Earlier this year, Google unveiled an upgraded version of its experimental medical chatbot, the Articulate Medical Intelligence Explorer (AMIE), which marks a significant leap in diagnostic capabilities. By analysing rashes photographed with smartphones and other medical imagery, AMIE can diagnose and interpret associated medical conditions with superior diagnostic accuracy compared to human primary-care physicians.
Speaking about the potential use of AMIE, Director of Stanford University’s Centre for Digital Health, Eleni Linos, notes that systems integrating images and clinical information “bring us closer to
This could be of immense help to the severely understaffed medical sector in Africa. Thankfully, some Africans are already at the forefront of developing AI-powered solutions that alleviate the challenges the continent’s health sector faces.
A typical example is Nigerian Egemba Chinonso Fidelis, popularly known as Aproko Doctor, who, until launching AwaDoc, had been using his content to break down medical situations through humour and storytelling. With AwaDoc, the health influencer is taking it a step further, ensuring that Africans have direct access to quality medical advice right from their mobile phones.
An AI-powered healthcare platform accessible via WhatsApp, used by over 51 million Nigerians, as ‘AwaDoc’ can be used for symptom checking, medical advice, and as a reliable alternative to self-diagnosis.
This makes preliminary healthcare quick, dependable, and accessible by leveraging the widespread familiarity and penetration of WhatsApp, bypassing the need for new apps.
In Senegal, a former AI research
“We looked at vacuum cleaners, TVs, consumer services, and health services. In every single case, the intention to buy or use the product or service was significantly lower whenever we mentioned AI in the product description.”
scientist at Google and Facebook, Moustapha Cissé; former CEO of MTN Guinea, Papa Sow; and former Chief Medical Officer for AXA, Hosam Mattar, successfully raised $10 million for Kera Health, an AI-powered integrated platform that digitizes core services such as Electronic Health Records (EHRs), pharmacy and prescription data, and lab results.
Qme, an Egyptian B2B SaaS startup that builds AI-powered tools to improve customer service processes in healthcare, is on a mission to replace manual phone-based booking in hospitals with a more digitalised appointment system.
Using Qme, founded by a former executive at Orange Egypt, Maged Negm, who has raised $3 million, patients can book doctor consultations, lab tests, or procedures digitally via web, app, or kiosk.
Although WideBot AI, founded in Egypt but now based in Saudi Arabia by Mohamed Nabil, offers a wide range of services by building enterprise-level language solutions for corporations and government institutions in the Middle East and North Africa, it has also raised $3 million to develop AQL Mind, an Arabic large language model. As part of its healthcare services, WideBot helps automate patient query responses, gather patient feedback, and simplify omnichannel appointment booking.
There are numerous other AI startups in the health sector solving some of the continent’s most pressing problems. However, the reality is that for these solutions to have impact and reach the African population, firms must be able to communicate their mission and vision, as well as their use cases and benefits, in the most comprehensible way possible.
For AwaDoc, Aproko Doctor is utilising his storytelling expertise across his various social media channels to communicate and sell the AI-powered service. However, others may have to rely heavily on communicators — content creators,
storytellers, journalists, and creatives — to convey their products and services to the African population.
Bridging the Gap
There is a gap between storytellers and AI companies that has to be bridged.
While AI-powered firms are rising across Africa, there is still a disconnect between these innovators and the storytellers, content creators, and journalists who should be translating the technology for everyday people.
Are today’s storytellers aware that, despite skyrocketing adoption of AI, consumers still have less trust in products or services labelled as ‘AI-powered’?
According to a recent study published in the Journal of Hospitality Marketing and Management, describing a product as using AI actually lowers a customer’s intention to buy it.
In a recent interview with CNN, Dogan Gursoy, one of the study’s authors and the Taco Bell Distinguished Professor of Hospitality Business Management at Washington State University, stated: “We looked at vacuum cleaners, TVs, consumer services, and health services. In every single case, the intention to buy or use the product or service was significantly lower whenever we mentioned AI in the product description.”
Hence, there is a growing belief that a gap still exists between this new technology and the storytellers whose responsibility it is to communicate to the public how AI should be used, especially in sensitive areas like healthcare.
That is precisely why TalkComms, a Pan-African hub created to empower the next generation of communication leaders across the continent, is hosting its inaugural summit on November 29, 2025, at Emerald Hall, The Zone, Gbagada, in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub.
According to the convener, Oluwasegun Ogundairo, the summit is expected to help students and young professionals understand not only the skills needed to use AI and other emerging technologies but also how to communicate these technological advances to the people in ways that foster trust and adoption.
an AI assistant that mirrors how a clinician actually thinks.”
Kaduna Invests €10m in Arla Farm to Boost Dairy Production
John Shiklam in Kaduna
The Kaduna State Government has invested €10 million in the establishment of Arla Farm at Damau in Kubau Local Government Area as part of efforts to modernise the livestock industry and attract private investment.
The State Governor, Uba Sani disclosed this yesterday during the Arla-Dano Open Day in Kubau.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), AbdulKadir Muazu, he said the project aims to transform livestock production, close infrastructure gaps, and create sustainable jobs.
He said the facility is designed to produce between four and five million kilogrammes of milk annually at full capacity.
Sani noted that local milk production and employment opportunities have increased
since the establishment of the farm, describing it as a milestone in the state’s agricultural transformation drive.
He added that his administration has established strong institutional frameworks to sustain growth in the livestock subsector.
“In the livestock subsector, Kaduna State has established the Kaduna State Livestock Regulatory Authority (KADLRA), the Kaduna State Livestock Transformation Company, and the Kaduna Ranch Development Company to work in synergy,” he said.
The governor also expressed delight at the unveiling of the Nigeria Dairy Centre of Excellence, the Sedentarization and Climate Change Resilience in Nigeria (SCREEN) Project, and the commissioning of a yoghurt factory.
He said the initiatives would equip smallholder farmers with
modern technologies to improve milk quality and productivity.
“These initiatives will empower our farmers, increase income, create jobs for our youth, and provide nutritious dairy products for our people,” Sani said.
Sani commended the partnership between the state government, the private sector, and development partners, saying such collaboration would drive sustainable growth in the dairy value chain.
“We believe that the Damau Milk Farm Project will stimulate economic growth and position Kaduna as the leading dairy hub in Nigeria,” he added. Also speaking at the event, the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Maiha, described Arla Farm as a product of the federal government’s local content and backward integration policy.
FRC, Integrity Organisation Launch Business Certification for SMEs
of Corporate Governance (NCCG) 2018.
In a move to deepen corporate governance and integrity within Nigeria’s small and medium-scale enterprise (SME) sector, the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC), in collaboration with the Integrity Organisation, has launched the Business Integrity Certification (BIC) initiative, offering free certification to eligible SMEs until March 31, 2026.
This was disclosed in Lagos during the inaugural meeting of the Advisory Committee of the Business Integrity Certification Initiative, convened to drive the operationalisation of corporate governance standards for SMEs in line with the Nigerian Code
Beta
Speaking at the event, Comfort Osundu, FRC’s representative on the Advisory Committee, explained that the new BIC framework provides a simplified and scalable process for SMEs to strengthen their governance systems. She added that certified businesses would be better positioned to attract foreign investments, secure grants, and ensure long-term business sustainability.
Chief Executive Officer of Integrity Organisation and member of the Advisory Committee, Mr. Soji Apampa, said the BIC is designed to embed integrity into the operations of Nigerian SMEs while enhancing investor
confidence in the sector. According to him, the certification process is fully digitised and accessible via the FRC’s website under the SME section. “When SMEs log on and answer the questionnaire, they will be able to assess their compliance level with the corporate governance guidelines. The platform highlights weak areas and allows them to improve until they qualify for certification,” Apampa explained.
Also speaking, Mrs. Lola Adekoye, Regional Director, Africa Hub, CIPE, and member of the Advisory Committee, hailed Nigeria’s leadership in piloting the Business Integrity Certification across its SME ecosystem.
Glass Sets Global Record with 48-Day DF1 Furnace Rebuild at Ughelli Plant
Sunday Ehigiator
Beta Glass Plc, has achieved a world-leading milestone with the successful rebuild of its DF1 container glass furnace at its state-of-the-art facility in Ughelli, Delta State.
The comprehensive project, completed in a record 48 days, marks a new global benchmark in the glass container industry and significantly enhances the company’s production capacity, efficiency, and sustainability.
The DF1 furnace, a 250-ton, 70-square-metre structure, underwent a complete transformation that involved the demolition and reinstallation
of more than 2,000 metric tons of refractories and 90 tons of steel structures.
The project also included the installation of advanced furnace equipment such as exhaust draught systems, batch chargers, boosters, probes, and cooling systems.
The company upgraded its working ends and forehearths with modern combustion and cooling units, replaced old water lines and air and gas pipelines, and overhauled its electrical and control systems to improve operational performance.
Speaking on the achievement, the Chief Executive Officer of Beta Glass Plc, Mr. Alexander Gendis, said the successful
completion of the DF1 furnace rebuild underscores the company’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence. He said, “This world-record DF1 furnace rebuild underscores Beta Glass’ commitment to operational excellence, innovation, and sustainability. The DF1 rebuild not only strengthens our production capabilities but also reinforces our position as a leader in glass manufacturing across Africa,” he said. “Our ability to deliver such a complex project safely, on time, and to the highest standards is a testament to the expertise and dedication of our team, partners, and suppliers.”
Limited, Nigeria’s pioneering leasing institution and a Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)-licensed finance company, has announced a major milestone — disbursing over N30 billion in leases to businesses nationwide.
This achievement reinforces LECON’s pivotal role in powering Nigeria’s productive sectors and expanding the country’s leasing ecosystem.
Since inception, LECON has financed over 2,000 projects across key industries including agriculture, healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, education, transportation, construction, and renewable energy. In the last five years alone, the company has supported more than 230 projects, enabling enterprises to acquire vital equipment and assets that enhance productivity, drive innovation, and create jobs.
Through its strategic leasing and financing
solutions, LECON has emerged as a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
Reaffirming LECON’s dedication to making leasing available to businesses, the Managing Director/ CEO, Mrs. Ebehiriere EhiOmoike, said “we are on a mission to democratize access to productive assets for businesses of all sizes to create real impact. These milestones reflect our dedication to building a resilient and inclusive financial ecosystem.
“As one of the earliest institutions in Nigeria’s leasing industry, LECON remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s leasing ecosytem having been instrumental in legitimizing leasing as a credible and effective financing tool for large corporates and MSMEs alike.
“By offering flexible, assetbacked financing, LECON empowers businesses to invest in modern equipment without the heavy burden of upfront capital costs. This model has
strengthened confidence in leasing as a sustainable growth instrument, helping enterprises expand and thrive.”
As a CBN-licensed finance company and a subsidiary of the Bank of Industry (BOI), LECON operates with full regulatory compliance and a clear mandate to deliver financial solutions that promote inclusive growth and national development.
Its project portfolio covers agro and food processing, healthcare, petrochemicals, education, transport, logistics, manufacturing, construction, renewable energy, solid minerals, mining, and aviation with each project contributes to a more resilient, diversified Nigerian economy.
As Nigeria continues to pursue economic diversification, LECON remains committed to driving inclusive and sustainable financing. The company’s mission is to enable businesses — large and small — to access the productive assets they need to grow, compete, and create long-term value.
Human Capital Remains NPA’s Greatest Asset - Dantsoho
The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, has stated that the authority’s greatest asset lies not only in infrastructure and technology but in its people, who drive the nation’s maritime growth.
Dantsoho, stated this during the maiden edition of the National Mentoring Day celebration held at the authority’s headquarters in Lagos.
Represented by the Executive Director of Finance and Administration, Vivian Richard-Edet, Dantsoho said the event marked a significant milestone in the
Authority’s commitment to nurturing future leaders, promoting knowledge transfer, and entrenching a culture of continuous learning and professional growth.
“This occasion marks an important milestone in our commitment to nurturing future leaders, promoting knowledge transfer, and institutionalising a culture of continuous learning and professional development,” he said.
He added that while NPA continues to invest in world-class infrastructure and advanced port technology, its most valuable strength remains its workforce.
“As an organisation at the heart of Nigeria’s maritime economy, we recognise that our true strength lies not only in infrastructure and technology but, more importantly, in our people,” he emphasised.
He also applauded the contributions of young professionals serving under the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) at the NPA, describing them as the next generation of innovators and change agents who will shape the future of the maritime industry and Nigeria’s economy at large.
Prominent businessman and engineer, Babatunde Alatise, has declared his intention to contest for the Awujale of Ijebuland throne, promising to open new economic frontiers and empower local businesses if selected as king.
Alatise made his declaration during a visit to the Bubiade royal family house, where he met with elders and stakeholders to share his vision for the Ijebu people.
“My interest is not only for peace and progress alone,” he said. “I would bring several business opportunities to the people of Ijebu land.”
A trained engineer and Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Administrators
(FCIA), Alatise has spent over two decades building companies that operate in mining, agriculture, and real estate. He currently serves as Managing Director of Tuntise Investments Ltd, Yemlat Farms and Tuntise Properties.
He said one of his key goals is to ensure that businesses operating in Ijebuland give back to their host communities. “If I am selected as the next Awujale of Ijebuland,” he said, “I would make sure that mining companies sign Community Development Agreements that would further develop Ijebuland.”
Alatise also spoke about the need to explore the region’s natural resources
responsibly, noting that “there’s gold in Ijebuland, only that it hasn’t been discovered yet.”
Beyond mining, he plans to promote affordable housing and attract private sector partnerships that will create jobs for the youth and boost small-scale enterprises.
Speaking to newsmen on Alatise’s candidacy, Rasheed Adenuga, a community elder, described him as “a bridge between tradition and modern enterprise.”
He added, “With his business background and deep love for Ijebuland, Otunba Alatise has the vision and connections to attract industries, create jobs and restore economic pride to our people.”
Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic
Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).
VFD Group Reports 61% Profit Surge to N7.99bn in Q3 2025
Kayode Tokede
VFD Group Plc on Wednesday released its third quarter ended September 30, 2025 (Q3 2025) unaudited financial results, showing N7.99 billion profit before tax, about 61 per cent surge over N4.95 billion reported in the third quarter ended
September 30, 2024.
From the profit & loss figures, the Group posted profit after tax of N6.63 billion in Q3 2025, representing an increase of 48.3 per cent from N4.47 billion in Q3 2024.
The group’s gross earnings stood at N60.72 billion in Q3 2025, a increase of 35 per cent from N45.01
billion in Q3 2024, while net investment income closed Q3 2025 at N45.65 billiion, about 45per cent increase over N31.55 billion declared in Q3 2024.
The growth in net investment income was driven by robust subsidiary performance and disciplined capital deployment.
Operating profit.
however, increased by 66per cent, supported by enhanced efficiency and cost optimization, while operating cashflow turned positive at N12.21 billion, underscoring improved earnings quality and disciplined asset-liability management practice.
The Group’s balance sheet remained resilient, with total assets growth of 30
per cent to N383.39 billion and shareholders’ equity rising 29per cent to N71.50 billion, reflecting business expansion and prudent capital management.
The company in a statement stated that its Debtto-Equity ratio improved to 1.68x in Q3 2025 (2024: 2.07x), reflecting consistent accretion of internally generated capital
and prudent balance sheet management. The ongoing Rights Issue is expected to further strengthen capital position and overall balance. More so, the proceeds of the Rights Issue would help to deleverage the balance sheet, reduce funding cost, and ultimately enhance earnings growth and profitability.
PRESENTATION OF AWARD TO THISDAY MEDIA GROUP...
L–R: Logistics Manager, Top 50 Brands, Mr. David Ogunba; THISDAY Sunday Deputy Editor, Mr. Festus Akanbi; THISDAY Saturday Deputy Editor, Ahamefula
CEO, Top 50 Brands, Mr. Taiwo Oluboyede; THISDAY Sunday Editor, Davidson Iriekpen; Mr. Shanked Pradakuram; Research Advisor, Top 50 Brands, Dr.
Priya; and THISDAY Saturday Editor, Obinna Chima, during the presentation of Award to THISDAY Media Group as one of the Top Brands at the
Nigeria held at THISDAY Office, Lagos, yesterday
Marwa: Challenge of Drug Scourge Remains
Monumental, More Work Needed
Discloses 45,853 arrests made, 8.5m kilogrammes of drugs seized, 9,263 convicted in 30 months
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd), has said the challenge of drug scourge in the country still remains monumental and as such there’s need for more work to be done.
While disclosing that 45,853 arrests were made, 8.5 million kilogrammes of drugs seized, and 9,263 persons convicted in 30 months, Marwa commended officers of the agency for raising the momentum of the fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking across the country in the past two and a half years of the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
The commendation was given on Wednesday by the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the agency, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd) during a presentation of commenda- tion letters and awards to 220 personnel for outstanding
performance in the discharge of their duties and the decoration of 15 senior officers with new higher ranks.
In his remark at the event, Marwa said: “Today, we specifi- cally recognize those who have gone above and beyond. We celebrate those who, despite facing immense danger and relentless temptation, chose the path of integrity, selflessness, and uncompromising adherence to our mandate.
“Your commitment to the renewed hope agenda of the administration of President Tinubu has yielded tremendous results in the past 30 months on our two major planks of drug demand reduction and drug supply reduction, leading to 45,853 arrests; seizure of over 8.5 million kilograms of assorted illicit drugs; and conviction of 9,263 offenders; with 26,613 drug users counselled and rehabilitated in our treatment facilities across the country.
“Also, a total of 9,848 War Against Drug Abuse (WADA)
sensitisation activities were conducted in schools, work places, markets, motor parks, worship centres and communi- ties among others within the same period.”
The anti-drug czar while not- ing he has upheld the tradition of hosting the commendation and awards ceremony in the
last four and a half years to appreciate and encourage of- ficers, men and women who have distinguished themselves in the line of duty, said the challenge of the drug scourge still remains monumental and as such there’s need for more work to be done.
“Without mincing words,
Over 250,000 Women
the challenge we face is monumental. Drug abuse, trafficking, and the associated criminal enterprises represent a direct and existential threat to the social fabric, economic stability, and national security of Nigeria. They fuel crime, corrupt our youth, and provide resources for terrorism and insurgency.
“But for every kilogramme of cocaine intercepted, for every clandestine laboratory dismantled, for every major drug kingpin apprehended, a critical blow is delivered to these criminal networks. These victories, are no doubt the direct result of your dedication.”
Register for Financial Literacy Programme of Women Ministry
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
Over 250,000 Nigerian women have so far registered for the newly launched EmpowerHER Financial Literacy Programme which is an initiative of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs aimed at enhancing women’s financial, digital, and entrepreneurial capacity across the country.
The programme, known as
Imo Economic Summit 2025: Business, Global Leaders to Converge, Brainstorm in Owerri
Uneze
The Imo Economic Summit, scheduled for December 4-5, 2025, in Owerri, is set to draw global and regional leaders in banking, develop- ment finance, infrastructure, and energy to a secure and welcoming Imo State.
Organized by the Imo State Government under Governor Hope Uzodimma, the summit aims to position Imo as a hub for scalable business activity through partnerships, investment,
and innovation.
In a paper made by Prince Eze Ugochukwu, the Special Adviser to the Imo State Governor on Public Enlight- enment, “The environment is enabling and welcoming,” assuring attendees of a safe and conducive setting to engage in transformative discussions.
The event will harness the expertise of its distinguished speakers to tackle Imo’s eco- nomic challenges, including industrial diversification, SME financing, and energy access,
fostering sustainable growth.
The summit’s financial sector speakers include trailblazing female CEOs: Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe (Managing Director of Fidel- ity Bank), Dr. Adaora Umeoji (Managing Director of Zenith Bank), and Yetunde B. Oni (Union Bank).
Onyeali-Ikpe, who boosted Fidelity’s profit from N25 billion to N122 billion by 2023 with innovations like PayGate Plus, will share strategies for tech-driven financial access for SMEs.
EmpowerHER was launched under the leadership of the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, as a landmark step in the federal government’s commitment to advancing women’s economic empowerment and inclusive participation in national development.
In a statement signed by her spokesperson, Jonathan Eze on Wednesday, the initiative is being implemented in partnership with Kudimata Nig. Ltd, a leading financial literacy and empowerment organization providing the
digital framework, technical content, and nationwide delivery infrastructure for the programme.
Speaking at the launch in Abuja, Sulaiman-Ibrahim described the initiative as a cornerstone of national transformation that places knowledge and financial capability at the centre of empowerment.
She said the programme is designed to train and empower millions of Nigerian women through financial and digital literacy, as well as entrepreneurship development, thereby establishing a sustainable
and inclusive foundation for women’s economic advancement across the country. The minister noted that empowerment must start with understanding, adding that financial literacy gives women the confidence to take control of their resources, opportunities, and future.
“With EmpowerHER, we are laying the foundation for a financially literate and economically empowered generation of Nigerian women, one that will strengthen families, com- munities, and our nation,” she stated.
NAPHARM Champions Pharmaceutical Innovation for National Development
Mary Nnah
The Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy (NAPHARM) has emphasised the critical role of pharmaceutical innovation in driving national development, stressing that investment in research, local manufacturing, and digital health is essential for building a resilient phar- maceutical value chain.
This was highlighted at
the recent academy’s 2025 Annual General Meeting and Investiture Ceremony, which brought together experts in the pharmaceutical industry to discuss the significance of innovation in improving healthcare outcomes.
The Group Managing Director of FBN Holdings Plc, Mr. Wale Oyedeji, noted that pharmaceutical innovation is
not just about developing new drugs, but also about creating an ecosystem that supports knowledge, entrepreneurship, and collaboration across public and private sectors. He urged stakeholders to prioritize research and devel- opment, leveraging Nigeria’s demographic advantage and intellectual capital to propel sustainable development.
Ogbu;
Shanmuga
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PHOTO: ABIODuN AjALA
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in Owerri
GOldEn PEnny 65th AnnIvErSAry Buy & WIn GOldEn PrOMOtIOn...
L-R: Assistant Manager, Trade Development, Golden Penny Foods Limited, Abioye Oyeniyi; winner of the car, Hamza Muhammed; Brand Manager, Pasta, Golden Penny Foods Limited, Abiola Akinrole, and Assistant Trade Development Manager, Golden Penny Foods Limited, Oluwatoyin Temitope David, during the presentation of the first car prize to the winner, Muhammed , as part of the ongoing Golden Penny 65th Anniversary Buy & Win Golden Promotion in Ekiti State...recently
Lamido Files Legal Process Challenging His Exclusion from PDP Chairmanship Contest
Seeks order restraining screening committee You risk sanction by suing party, says George
Okocha in Abuja
Former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, has begun legal processes to challenge his exclusion from nomination for the chairmanship of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Lamido told THISDAY
that he was at the Federal High Court on Tuesday and concluded the filing of his court papers yesterday. He confirmed that he met with his lawyers on Tuesday and had sworn to an affidavit attached to the originating summons, expected to have
been filed before the Federal High Court yesterday.
It was further gathered that the legal team approached the court with an ex parte motion seeking to halt the screening process for former Minister of Special Duties and Intergovern- mental Affairs, Kabir Tanimu
Turaki, as the sole candidate for the chairmanship position.
Turaki’s emergence followed his endorsement by PDP governors from the northern states and other senior party figures and the submission of his nomination form on Monday.
France, Italy Collaborate with Nigeria to Boost Human Trafficking Fight
Launch common operational partnership project
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The French and Italian governments, in conjunction with Nigerian government have launched the Common Operational Partnership (COP Nigeria) Project aimed at combating human trafficking.
Speaking at the official launch of the project in Abuja, the Director General of National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Hajiya Binta Bello, said: “To- day’s event marks yet another milestone in our collective efforts
to strengthen Nigeria’s response to human trafficking and the smuggling of migrants. It is a moment of renewed collaboration, shared commitment, and forward-looking action.
“Nigeria occupies a strategic position in the migration dynamics of West Africa. As a country of origin, transit, and destination, we continue to grapple with multifaceted and evolving challenges - from human trafficking and migrant smuggling to related transnational crimes such as sexual exploitation, document
forgery, and drug trafficking.”
Bello, who was represented at the Launch by the agency’s Director, Research and Programme Development, Josiah Emerole, noted that: “Over the years, NAPTIP has made remarkable progress in its five cardinal areas of intervention — Policy, Prevention, Protection, Prosecution, and Partnership.
“However, we are fully aware that the changing nature of trafficking and smuggling necessitates continuous innovation, deeper collaboration, and the strengthening of institutional
NASU: Economic Hardship
Affecting Worker’s Productivity, Dignity
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
The Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU), has said that Nigerian workers’ productivity, dignity, and wellbeing have been weakened by years of neglect, poor governance, and economic hardship.
It said that essential goods
and services, including housing, transportation, and healthcare have become increasingly unaffordable, leaving many families struggling to survive.
Speaking at the National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting of NASU held in Abuja on Wednesday, the national president of the Union, Comrade Dr.
Makolo Hassan said govern- ments should implement a Minimum Wage policy that can be adjusted periodically in line with inflation and cost-of-living indices.
In addition, he said that frequent policy inconsistency by government is under- mining economic stability, discouraging investment, and eroding jobs security.
capacities across all levels.”
She said: “The Common Operational Partnership (COP) initiative, implemented by the Government of France with the support of Italian Ministry of Interior, represents a strategic opportunity to consolidate our achievements and introduce evidence-based, context-specific approaches to tackling these crimes in Nigeria.
Lamido had vowed on Monday to seek legal redress after allegedly being denied access to the nomination form. His move deepened the crisis threaten- ing to derail preparations for the PDP national convention scheduled for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, the Oyo StateButcapital. the party’s leadership dismissed Lamido’s threat of litigation, insisting it would not allow “disgruntled elements” to derail preparations for its convention.
In what had been reported as a response to the escalating ten- sion, the National Convention Organising Committee (NCOC) announced the indefinite postponement of the screening exercise for aspirants, initially slated for Tuesday, October 28.
Lamido’s legal challenge added to the hurdles already confronting the opposition party.
A Federal High Court in Abuja had fixed today, October 30, to deliver judgement in a
separate suit seeking to stop the convention.
The case was filed by some state party chairmen believed to be loyal to Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, a vocal critic of the planned convention. Many believe the outcome of the current challenges would be a critical test of PDP’s unity and readiness for leadership transition.
A member of PDP Board of Trustees (BoT), Bode George, warned Lamido not to take the party to court over the sale of nomination forms for the national chairmanship contest.
Speaking on “Politics To- day”, a Channels Television programme, George said Lamido must first explore the party’s internal dispute resolution processes before seeking redress in court.
The PDP chieftain also said Lamido had every right to contest the party’s national chairmanship position.
Warri Will Be Envy of the World Soonest, Olori Atuwatse III Declares
Wife of Olu of Warri, Her Majesty, Olori Atuwatse III, has expressed confidence that Warri will become the envy of the world within the next two decades if the ‘Warri Child’ dares to dream beyond limitations and challenges.
Speaking during the second edition of The Future of the Warri Child seminar themed ‘Beyond Limit: Unlocking the Potential of the Warri Child’ yesterday, Her Majesty described the future of the
Warri child as potent and promising.’
She reaffirmed her commitment to nurturing a generation of brilliant, confident and purpose-driven young people.
Recounting her childhood dream, Olori Atuwatse III told the large gathering: “I had a dream at age five that I was going to be a queen. I had no idea that I was going to meet my husband.
“I always said, don’t touch me anyhow, I am going to be a queen. I am determined to
bring the world to the Warri child and send the Warri child to the world.”
Encouraged by the initiative of the sole representative of the Olu of Warri and Liaison to Nigeria National Petro- leum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), Prince Edema Collins Oritsetimeyin, to sponsor 300 Senior Secondary School 3 students for the forthcoming WASSCE, the Queen pledged to match the gesture by enrolling another 300 students in the examination.
Sylvester Idowu in Warri
Chuks
Assumptions of Genocide Could Hasten Nigeria’s Division, FG Warns US Officials
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
The federal government has again faulted some US officials for allegedly using faulty assumptions and data to assert that terrorist elements in Nigeria were targeting Christians.
It said purveyors of such narratives were unwittingly playing into the hands of criminals whose ultimate
As for Energy Security & Asset Optimisation, Ojulari pointed out that this is to assure NNPC’s capacity to meet Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) requirements as the supplier of last resort for petroleum products as well as to ensure efficient and profitable operation of the refineries.
“We’re repositioning as a commercially driven, transparent energy company serving Nigerians,” Ojulari added.
During his tenure, erstwhile GCEO, Mele Kyari, oversaw the award of rehabilitation contracts for Nigeria’s three main state-owned refineries at amounts running into the billions of US dollars.
For the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) in Port Harcourt, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved a contract of roughly $1.50 billion.
For the Kaduna Refining & Petrochemical Company (KRPC) in Kaduna and the Warri Refining & Petrochemical Company in Warri, a combined contract sum of about $1.48 billion was approved.
In total, therefore, the rehabilitation of the three refineries was budgeted at approximately $3 billion, prompting the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission
objective was to incite conflict between Christians and Muslims in Nigeria. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, disclosed this in an interview on CNN Tuesday night.
Idris emphasised the concerted moves by the Tinubu administration to tackle the country’s security challenges to guarantee the safety and well-being of all citizens.
He said, in a statement by
(EFCC) to have recently begun an investigation.
Meanwhile, Nigerians are about to pay as much as N150 higher per litre of petrol and higher than that on diesel, after the Bola Tinubu-led administration approved a 15 per cent tariff on imported fuels, implementation of which will commence immediately.
However the document stated that the impact will not exceed N100 addition per litre.
The document seen by THISDAY yesterday copied to the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fag- bemi; Executive Chairman Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji and the Authority Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regula- tory Authority (NMDPRA), Farouk Ahmed, confirmed theThedevelopment. request approved by the President stated that the proposal to introduce a ‘measured import tariff’ on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and Diesel, was aimed at reinforcing national energy security, safeguarding local refining capacity, stabilising the downstream market, and ensuring a fair and competitive pricing environment aligned
his media aide, Rabiu Ibrahim, that Nigeria was not a violator of religious freedom.
The minister described the notion as a fallacy that did not reflect the country’s complex security realities and the right to freedom of religion enshrined in the Nigerian constitution.
He portrayed Nigeria as a highly tolerant country that respected freedom of religion, warning that promoting a
with the the President’s agenda.
“Your Excellency may wish to recall that on 29th July 2024, via Federal Executive Council Memo EC 9 (2024) 4, you graciously approved the settle- ment of crude oil dedicated to domestic consumption in Naira, alongside the sale of the refined products therefrom in Naira.
“The core objective of this initíative is to operationalise crude transactions in local currency, strengthen local refining capacity, and ensure a stable, affordable supply of petroleum products across Nigeria - aligning with Your Excellency’s Renewed Hope Agenda for energy security and fiscal “However,sustainability. Your Excellency may wish to additionally note that while domestic refining of PMS has begun to increase, and local sufficiency in Diesel production has been achieved, price instability persists, partly due to misalignment between local refiners and marketers.
“Import parity remains the benchmark for pricing but often sits below the cost recovery point of local producers, particularly during currency and freight fluctua- tions. Left unchecked, these risks undermine our nascent
false narrative of intolerance can inadvertently sow division between Christians and Muslims in the country. Idris said in the statement, “Characterising it as attacks on Christians will drive Nigeria towards division. The criminals want to portray the country as if there is a fight between Christians and Muslims.
“We have seen attacks on Christians. We have also
refining sector at the very point of recovery. The Government’s responsibility is therefore twofold: to protect consumers and domestic producers from unfair pricing practices and collusion, while simultaneously ensuring a level playing field that allows domestic refiners to cover costs and attract continued investment,” the official communication stated.
Pursuant to the above, and with the goal of driving a sustainable, fair, and equitable ecosystem, the letter detailed by a personal aide of the President proposed that the tariff framework be introduced.
This framework, the official communication said, is designed to prevent duty-free imports from undercutting local refineries, while maintaining healthy competition and protecting consumers.
“In line with the objectives of Your Excellency’s earlier ap- proval, it strengthens the local value chain, stabilises prices, and incentivises investment into refining and logistics infrastructure. In alignment with the updated technical proposal, it is recommended that an ad-valorem import duty of 15 per cent be introduced on PMS and Diesel, applied to the Cost, Insurance, and Freight
seen attacks on Muslims as well. But it is also wrong to characterise Nigeria as a country that does not tolerate religious freedom, and it’s also wrong to say that everywhere is not safe in Nigeria. Nigeria is, indeed, a safe country.
“Some of the claims made by some officials of the United States are based on faulty data and some assumptions that the victims of this violence are largely Christians.
(CIF) value at discharge.
“At current CIF levels, this represents an increment at ap- proximately N99.72 per litre, which nudges imported landed costs toward local cost-recovery without choking supply or inflating consumer prices beyond sustainable thresholds.
“Even with this adjustment, estimated Lagos pump prices would remain in the range of N964.72 per litre ($0.62), still significantly below regional averages such as Senegal ($1.76 per litre), Cote d’Ivoire ($1.52 per litre), and Ghana ($1.37 per litre),” the request acceded to by the President stated.
The proponents argued that the tariff is not revenue-driven but corrective, aimed at aligning import costs with domestic realities while preserving affordability.
According to the document, payments would be made into a designated Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) revenue account under the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), with verification by the NMDPRA before discharge clearance.
While the document sug- gested that implementation would commence after a 30-day transition window, allowing importers to adjust cargoes already in transit and ensur-
“Yes! There are Christians being attacked, but these criminals do not just target one religion. They target Christians. They also target Muslims. We have seen that especially in the northern part of the country.”
The minister acknowledged that while security challenges existed in the country, the government was tackling them decisively and with sustained commitment.
ing a smooth rollout without market disruption, however it indicated that the President minuted that it should begin immediately. “Approved as Prayed for Immediately,”Implementation the Nigerian leader wrote.
The letter continued: “Sections 71 and 72 of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) provide the legal basis for the proposed import tariff. Section 71 (a) and (b) empowers the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regula- tory Authority (NMDPRA) to issue Regulations imposing public service obligations on licensees in relation to matters which include security of sup- ply, economic development, and the achievement of wider economic policy objectives.
“Section 72 went further to authorise NMDPRA to provide for the recovery of any additional costs incurred in complying with the public service obligations through a public service levy, which may be imposed on customers, provided that it would be in the wider public interest.
“Public service obligations’” are defined under section 318 of the PIA to mean: specific obligations imposed by the
L–R: Bishop of Osogbo Diocese, Most Rev. John Oyejola; Celebrant and Parish Priest, St. Leo Catholic Church, Ikeja; Archbishop of the Metropolitan See of Lagos, Most Rev. (Dr.) Alfred Adewale Martins; Archbishop of Ibadan, Most Rev. (Dr.) Gabriel Abegunrin; and Bishop of Abeokuta Diocese, Most Rev. (Dr.) Peter Odetoyinbo, during the 35th Priestly Ordination Celebration of Fr. Fadairo held at St. Leo Parish, Ikeja, Lagos, yesterday
NNPC S H o PS for Equ ITY PA r TNE r S T o ‘H I g H -gr ADE ’ I TS Com AT o SE rE f INE r IES
MAIDEN EDITION OF THE YOUTH ENGAGEMENT ON CLIMATE CHANGE EDUCATION AND GREEN INNOVATION...
L–R: Director, Planning Unit, Office of Environmental Services, Mr. Rasheed Ishola; Founder, Project Save the Planet, Mr. Benjamin Suleiman; Director, Finance and Accounts, Office of Environmental Services, Mr. Olorunishola John; Representative of the Permanent Secretary and Director, Education Unit, Office of Environmental Services, Mrs. Mosurat Banire; Director, Centre for Environmental Studies and Sustainable Development (CESSD), Lagos State University (LASU), Prof. Mrs. Kafeelah Yussuf; and Deputy Director, Education Unit, Office of Environmental Services, Mrs. Esther Olaleye, during the maiden edition of the Youth Engagement on Climate Change Education and Green Innovation held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Ikeja, Lagos State, yesterday
AbdulRazaq: No Govt Since 1999 Has Delivered as We’ve Done in Last Six Years
Hammed Shittu in Ilorin
Kwara State Governor, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has said no government since 1999, has delivered as many projects in road connectivity, education, health, sports or tech infrastructure as his government had done in the last six years in the state.
AbdulRazaq stated this
education for families, timely payment of benefits, and the overall living conditions of our men and women in uniform.”
Stating that the armed forces had made significant gains against insurgents, Oluyede insisted that long-term security could only be achieved through a whole-of-society approach.
He said, “The military alone cannot secure Nigeria. Everyone must be involved, including the government, communities, and civil institutions. Security is a collective responsibility.”
He also called for urgent reform of the Nigeria Police to enable it to effectively handle internal security, allowing the military to focus on external defence.
Oluyede said, “We must strengthen the police to handle internal security so the military can focus on external defence.”
Senators from across the country lauded Oluyede’s credentials and experience, describing him as a seasoned commander. Senator Mohammed Monguno (Borno North) said Oluyede had proven leadership in reclaiming ter- ritories from Boko Haram.
Senator Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central) urged him to prioritise troop welfare, while Senator Danjuma Goje (Gombe) called for a more effective deradicalisation and reintegration programme for ex-insurgents.
in Ilorin on Tuesday while receiving the Integrity Gov- ernor of the Year Award of the Nigerian Association of Christian Journalists (NACJ).
“We have made significant achievements in the areas of road connectivity, education, health, sports or tech infrastructure as we have done in the last six years.
“Beyond the routine adher-
Responding, Oluyede pledged to strengthen Operation Safe Corridor, the government’s rehabilitation initiative in Gombe State, and ensure that ex-combatants were reintegrated into society through skills training and community participation.
“We’ll train ex-combatants in trades and work with traditional and community leaders to reintegrate them responsibly,” he said.
Abbas pledged to tackle maritime crimes, oil theft, and piracy through modern surveillance and improved inter-agency collaboration.
Rejecting the idea of establishing a separate coast guard, Abbas said the navy already performed those duties and only required better funding and equipment.
He stated, “The navy’s statutory responsibilities already cover coast guard functions. Instead of duplicating agencies, the government should strengthen the navy. Even half of the funds meant for a coast guard would significantly enhance our capacity.”
Abbas revealed plans to deploy drones to monitor difficult terrain and prevent oil theft in remote creeks while securing inland waterways increasingly exploited by criminal networks.
“We have established a Special Operations Command
ence to the bureaucratic due processes and transparency, our state has often come out in good standing in peer-review indices for transparency and good governance, including at the level of programmes conducted by the World Bank and other global bodies.
“We have made significant progress in every sector. We
in Makurdi to strengthen operations between Benue and Lokoja. This will cover inland waterways and block escape routes used by criminal elements,” he said.
On the reintegration of repentant militants, Abbas said he supported rehabilitation efforts, but warned against overlooking the emotional trauma suffered by victims.
“De-radicalisation is noble, but communities that have lost loved ones must be consulted. Their pain must not be ignored in our quest for peace,” he cautioned.
He pledged stronger co- ordination among the army, navy, and air force through the navy’s Total Spectrum Maritime Strategy, aimed at synchronising Nigeria’s maritime, land, and air defence operations.
“We must work together. It’s the only way to defeat the complex security threats confronting our nation,” he stated.
Equally speaking, Aneke said his vision was to build a “combat-ready, disciplined, and intelligent” air force that would rely more on drones, precision targeting, and rapidresponse capabilities.
He said, “If confirmed, I will dedicate myself to building a combat-ready air force — operationally versatile, disciplined, and lethal. Our operations will be smart, precise, and
are clearly leaving the state better networked in road and other socioeconomic indices. And we are not resting.
“And no government since 1999 has delivered as many projects in road connectivity, education, health, sports or tech infrastructure as we have done in the last six years.“We take this award as
intelligence-driven.”
Aneke underscored the importance of technology in modern warfare, stating that unmanned systems are now replacing conventional aircraft for many missions.
“Some of the things a Super Tucano can do, a drone can now do better, faster, and without risking lives. We will invest in unmanned aerial systems, research, and innovation,” he explained.
Addressing concerns about the state of Nigeria’s $1.2 billion Super Tucano fleet, Aneke assured senators that the aircraft were fully operational and delivering results in counter-insurgency operations.
He said, “The Super Tucanos are flying every night in the North-east and North-west. We just can’t publicise everything due to operational security.”
He also emphasised the high cost of sustaining air operations, describing defence spending as an investment in peace.
“Each missile we fire costs about $100,000. But that’s the price of peace. You must spend on defence to deter aggression,” he stated.
Aneke promised to prioritise pilot training, aircraft safety, and personnel welfare, urging lawmakers to support adequate funding for fleet maintenance and modernisation.
Aneke added, “We are here
an acknowledgement of our modest efforts to improve the conditions of our people and deliver political goods to the largest majority,” he said.
He thanked the Association for the honour, which he dedicated to the people of the state for their support and trust in his administration.
Earlier, presenting the award, the national president of the Association, Dr. Charles Okhai, said AbdulRazaq merited the recognition on account of his impressive achievements across many sectors. Okhai said the Governor emerged top in the ranking process involving four other states.
ITY, Boo ST Troop S ’ w elfA re
to serve. We will give Nigerians the best, to ensure that every naira spent on us delivers value in peace, safety, and pride.”
Across their presentations, the three nominees projected a shared commitment to synergy, innovation, and welfare as cornerstones of Nigeria’s new security architecture.
All three reaffirmed their loyalty to Tinubu’s vision of security sector reform and national stability.
The trio, following their confirmation, will anchor Tinubu’s new defence strategy, focused on restoring peace in the North-east, ending banditry in the North-west, and protecting Nigeria’s ter- ritorial integrity across land, sea, and air.
Reacting to the confirmation, Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters, Senator Basheer Lado, in a personally signed statement, commended the upper chamber for conducting a smooth and coordinated screening process that culminated in the confirmation of the nominees.
Lado said his office played a facilitating role in ensuring effective engagement between both arms of government during the confirmation exercise, which he described as “a demonstration of the administration’s commitment to effective governance and national security”.
According to him, “As the Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters, I facilitated this crucial interface to ensure a smooth and coordinated engagement between the Executive and the Legislature, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to effective governance and national security.”
He lauded Tinubu for appointing what he called “a strong and competent defence leadership team”, comprising Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede as Chief of Defence Staff, Major Gen. Waidi Shaibu as Chief of Army Staff, Air Vice Marshal Sunday K. Aneke as Chief of Air Staff, and Rear Admiral Idi Abbas as Chief of Naval Staff.
“The appointment of these distinguished officers represents a strategic step towards strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture and fostering synergy among the armed forces for the protection of our nation’s sovereignty and citizens,” the statement read.
Lado further expressed grati- tude to President of the Senate, the senate leadership, and all senators for their “prompt and thorough consideration” of the nominations.
He stated that the senate’s cooperation underscored the deepening partnership between the executive and legislature,
New Serv I ce cHI
APC GOVERNORSHIP PRIMARY ELECTION...
L–R: Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele; Secretary, Ekiti State All Progressives Congress (APC) Governorship Primary Committee, Hon. Taiwo Sunmonu; Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs.) Monisade
State First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji; Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji; Kogi State Governor and Chairman, APC Governorship Primary Committee, Ahmed Usman Ododo; Edo State Governor and Vice
Governorship Primary Committee, Monday Okpebholo; and Representative of the APC National Chairman, Nze Chidi Duru, during the APC Governorship Primary Election at Ekiti
f G Bow S To p u B l I c p re SS ure, r ever S e S pA r D o N lIST
Tinubu had earlier announced pardon for 175 inmates, but the list was reviewed to 120, as 55 inmates earlier granted pardon had their names removed.
In the final list, a total of 15 inmates were granted pardon by Tinubu and they included Mrs Anastasia Daniel Nwaobia, Hussaini Alhaji Umar, Ayinla Saadu Alanamu, Hon. Farouk M. Lawan, Herbert Macaulay, Major General Mamman Jiya Vatsa, Ken Saro Wiwa, Saturday Dobee, Nordu Eawo, Daniel Gbooko, Paul Levera, Felix Nuale, Baribor Bera, Barinem Kiobel and John Kpuine.
Similarly, 15 inmates received clemency from the president and they were Oroka Michael Chibueze, Adesanya Olufemi Paul, Daniel Bodunwa, Hamza Abubakar, Buhari Sani, Mohammed Musa, Muharazu Abubakar, Ibrahim Yusuf, Saad Ahmed Madaki, Ex-Corporal Michael Bawa, Richard Ayuba, Adam Abubakar, Emmanuel Yusuf, Chinedu Stanley and Johnny Ntheru Udor.
Four inmates, Emmanuel Baba, Abubakar Usman, Khalifa Umar and Mohammed Umar, got their death sentence com- muted to life imprisonment.
Among the 86 inmates, who had their sentences reduced were Maryam Sanda. Although she was sentenced to death by hang- ing, the president commuted the death sentence to a prison term of 12 years.
In the earlier list compris- ing 175 inmates, out of the 17 shortlisted for pardon, two names were missing in the new list and they were Nweke Francis Chibueze sentenced to life imprisonment for cocaine and Dr Nwogu Peters serving 17 years’ jail term for fraud.
The list for clemency, which initially contained 82 inmates, was pruned drastically to 15, with over 50 of them transferred to the reduced sentences terms, including Maryam Sanda.
However, names like Alaugwu Lawrence, Ben Friday, kelvin Christopher Smith, Azu- buike Jeremiah, Akinrimnade Akinwande Adeniyi, Ahmed Adeyemi, Adeniyi Jimoh and Seun Omirinde were among the 55 inmates dropped from the presidential pardon. They
were convicted on drug related offences.
Similarly, out of the initial seven inmates on death row shortlisted for life imprison- ment, Emmanuel Gladstone, Moses Ayodele Olurunfemi and Benjamin Ekeze were dropped from the final list. They were convicted on murder, culpable homicide, and armed robbery.
According to the Instrument of Presidential Prerogative of Mercy (reduced terms of im- prisonment and sentence 2025), dated October 21, and signed by Tinubu, Maryam Sanda’s sentence was reduced “to 12 years, based on compassionate grounds, in the best interest of the children and good conduct, embraced new lifestyle, model prisoner and remorsefulness”.
Fagbemi disclosed that in order to ensure that future exercises met public expectations and best practices, the president had directed the immediate relocation of the secretariat of Presidential Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy from the Federal Ministry of Special Duties to the Federal Ministry of Justice.
The statement said, “The president has further directed the Attorney-General of the Federation to issue appropriate Guidelines for the Exercise of the Power of Prerogative of Mercy, which includes compul- sory consultation with relevant prosecuting agencies.
“This will ensure that only persons who fully meet the stipulated legal and procedural requirements will henceforth benefit from the issuance of instruments of release.”
The statement said Tinubu appreciated the constructive feedback and engagement from stakeholders and the general public on the matter. He also reaffirmed his administration’s broader commitment to judicial reforms and improving the administration of justice in Nigeria, the AGF said in the statement.
The AGF commended the public for their patience and constructive engagement throughout the process. He assured Nigerians that the government remained steadfast in promoting a justice system
that upheld human dignity while safeguarding national security and social order.
‘U-turn an Act of Shame, Not Wisdom’
Nevertheless, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication to former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, Phrank Shaibu, described the reversal of Tinubu’s pardon to some convicts as an act of shame and not wisdom.
particularly in addressing national challenges.
“Their commitment underscores the strong collaboration between the executive and the legislature in advancing the national interest and ensuring the security and stability of our dear nation,” Lado added.
National Assembly Okays Tinubu’s $2.8bn Foreign Loan to Fund 2025 Budget, Refinance Maturing Debts
Meanwhile, Senate and House of Representatives, yesterday, approved Tinubu’s request to secure a fresh $2.347 billion loan from the international capital market to part-finance the 2025 budget deficit and refinance Nigeria’s maturing Eurobonds.
In addition, the upper chamber granted approval for the issuance of a $500 million debut Sovereign Sukuk in the International Capital Market (ICM) to fund key infrastructural projects across the country.
The approvals followed the adoption of a report presented by Chairman of Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debts, Senator Wamakko Magatarkada Aliyu, on “New External Borrowing and Refinancing,” during plenary.
Tinubu’s request, first read in the chamber on October 8, sought legislative endorsement for new external borrowing and debt refinancing to bridge financing gaps in the upcoming fiscal year.
In a statement yesterday, Shaibu said once again, Nigeri- ans had witnessed a government that did not lead, but reacted.
He stated, “President Bola Tinubu has ‘cancelled’ his own pardon for drug traf- fickers, kidnappers, and other hardened criminals — but only after Nigerians shouted loud enough to wake him from his moral slumber.
“Let’s be clear: this U-turn is not an act of wisdom, it’s an
Presenting his committee’s report, Aliyu explained that the borrowing was necessary to sustain critical government projects and maintain Nige- ria’s creditworthiness in the international financial system.
In his contribution, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, Senator Sani Musa, urged his colleagues to approve the request, describing it as essential to ensure smooth implementation of the 2025 Appropriation Bill.
Musa said, “It is very necessary that we give approval to this request so that the 2025 appropriation will be given the necessary funding.”
He stressed that the borrowing was already embedded in the federal government’s fiscal projections.
Similarly, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and Other Financial Institutions, Senator Adetokunbo Abiru, clarified that the request was not an addition to Nigeria’s debt burden but a compliance measure with the already approved revenue and expenditure framework.
Abiru said, “This is more of a compliance issue because the 2025 Appropriation Act, as it is, has already captured it as part of the deficit financing.
“The second request is a refinancing arrangement to ensure that the country does not default in Eurobond servicing.”
Senator Adams Oshiomhole (Edo North) defended the decision to back additional borrowing, arguing that loans
act of shame.
“If the public had kept quiet, would convicted drug lords and kidnappers be walking free today under the President’s blessing? Who thought it was a brilliant idea to reward crime and betray justice? Who signed off on such national embarrassment?
“These are the questions every Nigerian deserves answers to: who compiled the list of beneficiaries? What criteria
targeted at productive sectors can stimulate economic growth and create jobs.
“We have consistently maintained that there’s nothing wrong with borrowing if it is properly structured and used to address critical issues like unemployment and infrastructural decay,” Oshiomhole said.
The senate’s approval came amid sustained debate over Nigeria’s rising debt profile, which stood at over N97 trillion as of mid-2025, according to Debt Management Office (DMO).
Additionally, the House of Representatives approved the president’s request to implement the new external borrowing plan.
The report of the Commit- tee on Loans and Debt was presented to the House at the plenary session yesterday for consideration by the chairman of the committee, Hassan Nalaraba.
But there was a mild drama when Deputy House Leader, Hon. Abdullahi Halims, who earlier moved for the consideration of the report, said the report should be stepped down for further consultation.
Speaker, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, wondered why Halims should be moving a motion to step down the consideration of the report when he was not fully abreast of the content of the report.
Subsequently, the House considered and approved the Implementation of the New External Borrowing of N1,843,669,786,987.16 (equiva-
justified freeing kidnappers and drug offenders?
“Where was the Attorney- General when this absurdity was cooked up? And why does this government only ‘discover its conscience’ after Nigerians expressShaibuoutrage?” stated that the pattern had become too familiar — announce the unthinkable, watch the country erupt, then hurriedly reverse course as if governance is a game of “trial and error”.
lent of USD 1,229,113,000.00 at the Budget Exchange rate of USD1.00/N1,500) provided as New External Borrowing in the 2025 Appropriation Act, to part-finance the Budget Deficit of N9,276,348,934,935.79
The green chamber further approved the request to re- finance the $1,118,352,000.00 Eurobonds (7.625 per cent $1.118bn Nov 2025) maturing on November 21, 2025.
The House also approved the request by the president to access aggregate external capital of USD2,347,465,000.00 ($1.229 billion and $1.118bn), through any of the following option(s) in the International Capital Market (ICM): Issuance of Eurobonds, Loan Syndications, Bridge Finance Facility from Bookrunners and Direct Borrowing from international Financial Institutions.
The lawmakers also approved the request to issue a stand-alone debut Sovereign Sukuk of up to $500 million in the ICM with or without credit enhancement (Guarantee).
While critics warn of potential fiscal risks, government officials insist that new borrowings are essential for bridging the nation’s infrastructure and revenue shortfalls.
With yesterday’s approval, the federal government is expected to proceed with arrangements for the new Eurobond issuance and the debut $500 million Sukuk offering in the global market, moves officials say will enhance Nigeria’s fiscal resilience and investor confidence.
Afuye; Ekiti
Chairman, Ekiti APC
Parapo Pavilion, Ado-Ekiti, on Monday
TaX REFORM ON THEiR MiNds …
IJAP Supports INEC Chairman’s Call for End to Courtroom Elections, Reiterates Urgent Reforms
Michael Olugbode in abuja
The Independent Judicial Accountability Panel (IJAP), led by Hon. Justice Adekunle Owoade (rtd) has commended the recent proactive statements made by the new Chairman of
the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN, regarding the need to end the era of endless court battles over election results.
IJAP noted that Professor Amupitan’s emphasis on the necessity for robust
STL Capital, COPE Sustain Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign
STL Trustees Limited has reaffirmed its partnership with the Care Organization Public Enlightenment (COPE), extending their three-year collaboration that has so far provided free screenings for over 300 women and reached thousands more through awareness campaigns.
Speaking at the last screening event, Managing Director of STL Trustees, Funmi Ekundayo, described the initiative as one of the company’s most impactful corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes. She noted that the partnership
with COPE has helped raise awareness on the importance of early detection and encouraged women to prioritise their health.
The event, which took place in Lagos, brought together many women who took part in free breast cancer screenings and health awareness sessions
Ekundayo said: “At STL, we have several CSR projects we partner with different organisations on, but I can tell you that one of the CSR projects that is very close and dear to our hearts is the one for breast cancer awareness.”
Amandla, ALC, Others Mark ECOWAS 50th Anniversary
Raheem akingbolu
As ECOWAS celebrates its 50th anniversary, Amandla Institute for Policy and Leadership Advancement is set to host a meeting of experts to reflect on West Africa’s integration journey on 31 October and 1 November 2025 at the Main Auditorium, ECOWAS Commission, Yakubu Gowon Cresscent, Asokoro, Abuja-FCT, Nigeria. The theme of the meeting is; ‘Reimaginning West Africa Regional Corperation and Integration: Alternative Futures.’
The epoch-making
event, which will attarct policymakers, scholars, and civil society leaders, is being organised in collaboration with African Leadership Centre(ALC) Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA) and The West Africa Citizen Think Tank(WATHI). As part of the efforts to deepening knowledge on Afriacan integration as well as appraising the impact and the challenges being faced by ECOWAS, the two-day event will also witness the second edition of ‘The African Public Square (APS)’.
legal frameworks, genuine internal democracy within political parties, and his challenge that “Elections must be won at the polling units, not in the courtroom,” is a welcome
and highly encouraging statement, stressing that this commitment perfectly aligns with the extensive recommendations developed through its rigorous analysis of post-
election justice delivery in Nigeria.
A statement yesterday said IJAP’s position, articulated during its 3rd session (September 30 - October 3, 2025), is
clear: the current fragility of our electoral process is deeply rooted in the lack of consistency with legal principles of fairness, equity, and compliance with the electoral legal framework.
Groups Raise the Alarm over State-enforced Sharia
A group of civil society organisations (CSOs) have raised their voices against the increasing rule of Sharia in states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), warning that the development poses a direct threat to the unity of the country as well as freedom and equal rights of the citizens.
The groups gave the warning while reacting to a published article which had claimed that there is no justification for opposition to Sharia in Nigeria. They described the article attributed to scholars as “deeply misleading,” adding that such claim ignores historical truth, legal reality
and human-rights evidence.
“It mis-frames what is at stake: not simply a matter of faith, but a matter of constitutional governance, freedom of belief, equality, and the very unity of Nigeria”, the groups stressed in a statement issued yesterday.
The groups, which include :End Sharia Now; One Nation
One Law; Love A Muslim Ministry; Seasoned Apologist; Faati Okodoro; Global Network of Christian Faith and Truth; and My Muslim Friend, observed that since Sharia law began in the 7th-century in Arabia, it had been used as an instrument of a broader pattern of territorial conquest and expansion.
Adeleke Hails Rapid Progress on Ile-Ife Flyover, Vows Completion of Projects
yinka Kolawole in osogbo
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, yesterday expressed delight at the pace of work on the Ile-Ife plyover project, describing it as a historic milestone in his administration’s effort to modernise and economically transform ancient towns
across the state. He also commended the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sammya Nigeria Limited, Adigun Sammy Oreoluwa, and the progress recorded by the contractor.
Oreoluwa expressed readiness to provide high-quality and the best
road infrastructure for the government and the people of Osun State in record time.
The construction of the Lagere iconic flyover bridge was awarded to Messrs Sammya Nigeria Limited at a total project cost of fourteen billion, nine hundred and thirty eight million, seven hundred and seventy-one
naira (N14,938,924,771.45). Speaking while inspecting ongoing infrastructure projects in Ile-Ife yesterday, Adeleke said the project symbolised his government’s commitment to ending the “era of abandoned projects and misappropriated funds” that had hindered Osun State’s growth for years.
PINL, MaCaw Donate Items to Military Formations in Rivers, Bayelsa
Blessing ibunge in Port
As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) outreach and continuous stakeholders’ engagement, Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), in conjunction with MaCaw Energy Services Limited, has donated several livelihood support items to some military formations in Rivers and Bayelsa States.
Some of the formations visited were the 26 Support Engineer Regiment and 29 Battalion, Bori Camp in Port Harcourt; and Nigerian Navy Ship, NNS Soroh, and 16 Brigade in Bayelsa State.
Some of the items donated included 2,000 bags of rice and other essential items prepared for distribution across selected security formations. Each bag, according to officials of the companies, contains practical items such as rice, torches, raincoats, bags, and water bottles.
The Project Manager, Macaw Energy Services Limited, Udoka Anyabolu, who coordinated the delivery of the items, told journalists that the donations symbolised appreciation and partnership.
Excitement as Over 2,000 Children Attend Akada Book Festival
ayodeji ake
Over 2,000 children from different schools who love book reading and other impactful activities were at the seventh edition of the annual Akada Children’s Book Festival in recently.
Speaking at the event, the
Founder, Olubunmi AboderinTalabi, said, it is important to nurture the children with the habit of reading books reading for good academic performance. She said the idea of the Akada Book Festival is to provide opportunities to children who enjoy reading and other activities like cheese,
knitting, painting, etc., to showcase their skills.
“I’m the founder and convener of The Akada Children’s Book Festival, a free, non-profit community event to attend for those who love books. It’s specifically for children, and it’s the first and largest children’s book festival that we have in
Nigeria. Since Akada started. We’ve had several others that have started, and it’s really good to see because that means that the message is catching on, and more people are becoming aware of why it’s important to have literary events that are specifically for children’s storybooks.
harcourt
Professor of Energy and Natural Resource, University of Abuja, Prof. Olarewaju Aladeitan; Dean, Faculty of Law, University of Lagos, Prof. Abiola Sanni (SAN); Dean of Law, Veritas University, Abuja, Prof. Josephine Agbonika (SAN); Head of Tax, Policy Reform Analysis Unit and Tax Reform Division, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Bright Igbinosa, and Chairman, Board of Trustee, Nigerian Association of Law Teachers, (NALT), Prof. Ademola Popoola, during the plenary session on Tax Reform at the 56th Annual Conference of NALT in Abuja...yesterday
Atalanta’s Juric Heaps Praises on Lookman over Goal Against Milan
Duro Ikhazuagbe
Ademola Lookman’s Coach at Atalanta, Ivan Juric, has praised the reigning African Player of the Year for his brilliant display that earned La Dea a 1-1 draw with AC Milan in an Italian Serie A clash on Tuesday night.
The goal was Lookman’s first this season since he got reintegrated to the team after a failed move away from Bergamo in the summer transfer window.
The Super Eagles forward equalised for Atalanta in the
35th minute after Samuel Ricci gave Milan an early 4th minute lead with a deflected strike.
Juric labelled Lookman as a player who does “spectacular “ things on a good day.
“I think we pushed him (Lookman) to play more than perhaps he should’ve done in these games because we wanted him to achieve match fitness,”
Juric told DAZN Italia shortly after the explosive game.
The Atalanta coach stressed further that Lookman “is a particular type of guy, but in
training and on the pitch. He is a sight to behold, just a spectacular player.”
Juric capped by admitting that he was happy with him.
” He’s a winner, with incredible determination, and I am very happy for him. We were only talking yesterday he said if he trains like this, the goal will come, and today (Tuesday) he scored a great goal.”
But it appears Lookman did not get carried away with the sweet for nothing words the Atalanta coach used to described
his superlative performance against AC Milan.
He still have at the back of his mind, the treatment he got from Atalanta’s top hierarchy when he attempted to force his way to Inter Milan by throwing in a transfer request in the sum- mer but got blocked. Lookman therefore in anger went on AWOL during the team’s preseason. He got snubbed in the early part of the season by not listed for matches.
“The most important thing is to be available for the team,”
Lookman told DAZN Italia in a separate interview after the game.
“I’ve not been able to find form yet, physically or in front of goal, But I’ll get there eventually and this (his equaliser) was a step forward in the right direction. Hopefully, in the coming games, we’ll be able to get some wins,” stressed the Nigerian international.
Pressed further on whether he has found happiness again at Atalanta, his response was cryptic to suggest there is still tension between him and the club.
TotalEnergies Kicks off AFCON 2025 Trophy Tour in Lagos with Fanfare
El Clasico: Vinicius
Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr has apologised to supporters for his reaction to being substituted in Sunday’s fiery El Clasico win against Barcelona.
The Brazilian was taken off in the 72nd minute and expressed
Jr
Apologises to Real Madrid Fans
his frustration by going straight down the tunnel.
Vinicius later returned to the bench and, after his side’s 2-1 win, tried to confront Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal during unsavoury post-match scene
“Today I want to apologise to all the Madridistas for my reaction when I was substituted in the Clasico,” he posted on X.
“Just as I have already done in person during Wednesday’s training, I also want to apologise again to my team-mates, the club, and the president.
“Sometimes passion gets the better of me because I always want to win and help my team. My competitive character stems from the love I feel for this club and everything it represents.”
Vinicius joined Real from Flamengo in 2018 for £38.7million and has scored 111 goals in 335 appearances.
But his future in the Spanish capital is far from certain with reports in recent months stating that Real would consider letting the 25-year-old leave if they were to receive a suitable offer.
When Vinicius was substituted on Sunday, cameras from broadcaster DAZN picked him up saying: “Always me! I’m leaving the team! It’s better if I leave, I’m leaving.”
In his latest statement on X, Vinicius said: “I promise to keep fighting every second for the good of Real Madrid, as I have done since the first day.”
Vinicius’ statement did not directly mention Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso, amid reports that the pair have fallen out.
Gov Alia Approves Ikya to Lead Lobi Stars Interim Management
Governor
approved an Interim Management
for
According to the statement
on Wednesday
the newly appointed Interim Management Committee will take over the affairs of Lobi Stars pending a proper restructuring of the club.
Other members of the committee are: seasoned sports journalist, Uja Emmanuel (Media Director), a retired elite Nigerian referee, Mr. Harry Yachi (Technical Director), astute marketer, Barrister Owocho
Adejoh Ogiri, and Mr. Terzungwe Chugh, Admin/Board Secretary.
The statement also said “the governor warns against distrac- tions and urges all members of the interim board to work together to achieve success and ensure the club returns to top flight football.” Therefore, the Interim Management Committee has been directed to immediately
register the club for the 2025/2026 Nigerian National League (NNL) season.
It will be recalled that after over two decades in the Nigerian topflight, Lobi Stars, under the recently dissolved board and management, were relegated to the NNL after underwhelming performances in the 2024/2025 NPFL season.
TotalEnergies, in partnership with the Confederation of African Football (CAF), yesterday kicked of the five-nation Trophy Tour in Lagos with the original AFCON 2025 iconic prize to be presented to the winner of the tournament in Morocco next January on display for Nigerian fans to behold.
According to the Managing Director of TotalEnergies Nigeria Plc, Dr. Samba Seye, “We are delighted to host the first stage of the Trophy Tour here in Lagos, Nigeria and kick off the 2025 tournament. Being the partner of African football is a great source of pride. Football is a universal, federating sport that is synonymous with joy, enthusiasm and, of course, energy.”
Seye who is a Senegalese by nationality, confirmed that he’s rooting for the Super Eagles to go all the way to bringing the trophy back to Nigeria as champions of the 2025 edition. Earlier at the kickoff of the Trophy Tour at the Corporate Headquarters of TotalEnergies Nigeria Plc in Lagos, the General Manager, (Retail), Alh. Abdullahi Umar, stressed that it was not just the beginning
of a tour. “It is the ignition of a continent-wide celebration of football, unity, heartbeat pulses with the rhythm of the beautiful game.”
He restated that Nigeria holds a special place in African football history.
“From legendary players to unforgettable moments on the pitch, this country has consistently shaped the narrative of the sport across the continent. That’s why we chose to begin this journey here, where football is not just a sport, but a way of life.
“This year, the Trophy Tour will travel across five countriesNigeria, Angola, South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire, and Morocco, bringing the spirit of the Africa Cup of Nations to millions of fans. We are proud to begin this journey in a country that has shaped the very history of African football,” he observed. Alh. Umar concluded that before all the qualified 24 teams for the 2025 edition kick off with the first match in Morocco, “today, we have made it possible for Nigerian fans to get the rare opportunities to witness it up close, to feel the energy, and to dream big seeing the trophy right here in Lagos.”
Boxers Sign Contracts Ahead of GOtv Boxing Night
Boxers scheduled to compete at GOtv Boxing Night 34: Jam Festival on December 26 have signed contracts for their bouts, marking a key step in preparations for the year-ending event.
The signing ceremony, held on Wednesday in Lagos, confirmed the participation of several top Nigerian boxers who will feature in five bouts, including a World Boxing Federation (WBF) light heavyweight title fight and a national super bantamweight title contest.
Among the boxers who com-
34
pleted their contract formalities were Tobiloba “Smiling Assassin” Ijomoni, Sadiq “Happy Boy” Adeleke, Durotimi “Tiny” Agboola, Ezekiel “Touch” Seun, Faruk Taofeek, and Segun “Odi” Gbobaniyi.
Speaking at the event, Bamidele Johnson, Chief Operating Officer of Flykite Productions, organisers of GOtv Boxing Night, said the contract signing underscores the event’s commitment to structure and professionalism in Nigerian boxing.
L-R: Shop Food and Services (SFS) & Marketing Manager, Mrs. Olufunmilayo Gombe; General Manager, Retail & Cards, Alh. Abdulahi Umar; Managing Director of TotalEnergies Marketing Nigeria Plc, Dr. Samba Seye; Executive Director, Human Resources & Corporate Services, Mrs. Olubunmi Popoola-Mordi; and Network Development & Optimisation Manager, Samir Mrad at the Unveiling of the AFCON Trophy by TotalEnergies in Lagos...on Wednesday
Ademola Lookman...praised for first goal of the season
The
of Benue State, Rev. Father Hyacinth Iormen Alia, has
Team
Lobi Stars with a former Team Manager of the club, Mr. Simon Terver Ikya, as Chairman.
issued
by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Benue State, Sir Tersoo kula,
Duro Ikhazuagbe
C H r IST op H er Kol AD e’ S pA r TI ng Wor DS
Since the passage of Kolade, I have been reflecting on those memorable four days I had the privilege of spending with him and others as recounted in my 25th January 2006 column, “When Last Did You Shoot an Elephant?”. Before I go to Kolade’s powerful invocation which I have read again and again in recent days, let me first provide the background. As editor of THISDAY Newspaper in November 2005, I got an invitation from Aganga (with whom I had no prior association or contact) to a special Aspen Leadership Seminar on Nigeria to be held in Hertfordshire, United Kingdom. While I was curious about the names of other participants, Aganga, (then Managing Director of Goldman Sachs in London) only assured me they were all distinguished Nigerians from home and the Diaspora. It was when I got to the UK that I realized who they were and even now, two decades later, I still fail to understand what qualified me to be among them.
We were 28 in all. 14 from the Diaspora and 14 from home. From the Diaspora (based on their designations at the time) were Mr. Adebayo Ogunlesi, then the executive vice chairman of Credit Suisse First Boston in New York (now, a bigger fish in the global financial ocean); Professor Tayo Akinwande, then of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT); Dr. Festus Dada, President of Crown Medical Group, California and Professor Femi Oyebode, then Head of the Department of Psychiatry, University of Birmingham. Others were Mr Jide Zeitlin, then CEO of The Keffi Group; Mr Dele Olojede, first African Pulitzer prize winner in journalism; Dr. Seyi Solebo, then a paediatrician with Barking, Havering and Redbridge Hospitals NHS Trust, UK; Mrs. Lola Oni, (MBE), then Professional Service Director, Brent Sickle Cell & Thalassaemia Centre, London; Ambassador Ayo Oke, then Head, Office of Deputy Secretary General, Commonwealth Secretariat. There was also Professor Jacob Olupona of Harvard University, as well as Dr. Olu Obaro, then head of department of Radiology at The King George Hospital, Ilford, London; Mr Gboyega Delano, President/CEO, Ilora L’Original Beauty Concepts, Inc; Mr Jimi Morgan, FCA, of J. Morgan & Associates and Aganga, the promoter and coordinator of the programme. From home were Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, then the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Chairman; Mallam Nasir el-Rufai, then the FCT Minister; Mrs Bola Adesola, then Executive Director at First Bank; Mr Bunmi Oni, then MD/CEO of Cadbury Plc; Mr Tony Elumelu, then MD/CEO of UBA; Mr Jim Ovia, then MD/CEO of Zenith and Mr Asue Ighodalo of Banwo & Ighodalo. Others were Father (not yet a Bishop at the time) Matthew Hassan Kukah, then of the Catholic Archdiocese of Kaduna; Major General Sarki Mukhtar (rtd), a former military governor; Mrs Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli, Founder (and then CEO) of LEAD-Africa; Dr. Adhiambo Odaga, then Ford Foundation Representative in West Africa; Dame Bridget Itsueli of Lagos Resource Centre and Mr Hassan Oye Odukale, the then MD/CEO
NEWS
of Leadway Assurance. I am sure readers would by now be surprised, as I then was, on why Aganga added my name to the list of these eminent Nigerians.
At the secluded four-day seminar, we were joined by Kolade, who was then Nigeria’s High Commissioner in the United Kingdom. And it was obvious he was part of the idea considering his profound contributions which form the kernel of this intervention. Modelled after other Aspen Institute’s leadership offerings from the Henry Crown Fellowship Programme to the Africa Leadership Initiative, the seminar was text-based and moderated by two respected scholars: Peter Reiling, a former Columbia University professor, and Keith Berwick, a four-time Emmy Award winning television broadcaster and former University of California professor of history. Using the Aspen format, they drew on the wisdom and experience of participants to prompt an in-depth dialogue on a range of leadership issues.
Throughout the four days, Kolade sat with us from morning till evening and participated in all the sessions. He also gave the opening remarks which reveal his thoughts about Nigeria:
“When Segun (Aganga) came to me with this idea,Iboughtintoitimmediatelybecausemanyof ourcountrymenandwomensaythattheNigerian dream is broken and, in a way, I quite agree. But Ialsoknowthatitcanbefixed,andsomepeople mustdoit.ThatisexactlywhyIhavepursuedthe Nigerians in the Diaspora wherever I met them asIaskedwhethertheydidnotseethemselvesas playingaroleinthedevelopmentofourcountry.
“I need to state, however, that by inviting you here from home and abroad, we are not trying to develop new leaders. That is not the role I see for you because you are already leaders in your
different fields. Indeed, there are many Nigerians inleadershiproles,peoplewhoaremakingwaves buthavenotappliedtheirmindstorebuildingthe Nigeriandream.Eachpersoninthisroomcanclaim tohaveledsuccessfulinitiativesinNigeriabutwhat I see missing is collective ownership, that is why wemustalljoinhandstogether.
“We have a high concentration of Nigerians in leadershippositionsintheDiaspora,andmyown roleisreallytoawakenthem,tomobilisethemto cometogetherandhelpfixourbrokendream.But as I speak to those of you in the Diaspora now, therearemanypeopleinNigeriawhoseeyouas mere‘Andrews’whoranawayfromtheproblems at home and I have actually come across many Nigerians abroad who speak of their country in thesecondperson,thatisnotthekindofattitude weshouldencourage.
With that, Kolade set the tone for the conversations about Nigeria that lasted four days. But it was his closing remark that was most profound, especially for our young people in a season like this. I will soon get to it. Meanwhile, some of the recommended publications we were enjoined to read ahead of the seminar and which formed the basis of our four-day interactions were, ‘Nicomachean Ethics and Rhetoric’ by Aristotle, ‘Leviathan’ by Thomas Hobbes, ‘The Paradoxes of Sovereignty’ by Karl Popper, and ‘The Muqaddimah’ by Ibn Khaldun. Other recommended books were ‘Long Walk to Freedom’ by Nelson Mandela, ‘Letter to the Earth’ by Mark Twain, ‘How Much Land Does a Man Need?’ by Leo Tolstoy, ‘Ozymandias’ by Percy Bysshe Shelley, ‘No Longer At Ease’ by Chinua Achebe, ‘Capitalism and Freedom’ by Milton Friedman, ‘The Social Contract’ by John Jacques Rousseau, ‘The Communist Manifesto’ by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, ‘Equality and Efficiency: The Big Trade-off’ by Arthur Okun, ‘The Merit of Agriculture’ by Thomas Jefferson, ‘In Our Postmodern World’ by Vaclav Havel, ‘A Search for Self-Transcendence; Business and the Good Society’ by James O’Toole, ‘The Prince’ by Niccolo Machiavelli and, of course, my favourite, ‘Shooting an Elephant’ by George Orwell. The conversations that followed were revealing as participants shared diverse life experiences. But
what made the sessions most insightful was that at every point during the programme, Kolade made interjections to remind us of why we were there, while also reinforcing the argument that what has been lacking in Nigeria is collective ownership. After the sessions, he hosted us to a dinner at his official residence in London. And then he gave this final message:
“WhatthisgatheringremindsmeofistheBiblical story of Nehemiah who, while sojourning in Babylon,hadtogoandrebuildthebrokenwallsof Jerusalem.Manyofyouaretodayinforeignlands but Nehemiah’s case was even worse because he was carried into captivity. Yet he volunteered to buildthebrokenwallsofhispeople.Howdidhe do it? He prayed, he fasted, and he acted; after assessingthesituation.Andheadoptedastrategy. For Nigeria, you need to do a Nehemiah which means you have to combine strength with talent becauseitwillnotbeeasy.”
At this point, Kolade paused, perhaps for the effect of what he would say next to sink in:
From that pioneer session in January 2006, there have been many other cohorts. In fact, the following class of Senior Fellows included former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, Prof Muhammed Ali Pate (current Coordinating Minister of Health), Mr Taiwo Oyedele, Dr Okey Enelamah, Mr Moyo Ajekigbe, Dr Titi Banjoko, Mallam Bashir Yusuf Ibrahim, Senator Udo Udoma, Mrs Maryam Uwais, Mr John Momoh, Dr Reuben Abati, Dr (Mrs) Sarah Alade, Prof Chidi Odinkalu, Prof Tunji Olaopa, Mr A.B. Mahmoud, SAN, Prof. Tayo Adeleke, Mr Gbenga Oyebode, Mr Folusho Philips, Mr Gbolade Oshibodu, Mrs. Clare Omatseye, Mrs Funke Opeke, Mrs Sola David-Borha, Ms. Hauwa Magoro, Mr. Tajudeen Ahmed, Mr. Fela Durotoye, Mr. Aminu Umar-Sadiq and Dr. Tunde Ajia. Several other distinguished Nigerians both at home and in the Diaspora have also, at different times, attended the NLI seminars.
In all these years, the late Kolade has been a father figure for the idea that was designed to instill in leaders and aspiring leaders (in both the public and private secrets) the right values and the impetus to create in Nigeria the good society. Through the NLI, according to Aganga, Kolade’s mentorship “has reached over 400 Senior Fellows, Fellows, and Associates across all public, corporate, and non-profit sectors, with a global reach.” And at every session, he always encouraged participants to reimagine the values that shape our country and what each person could contribute to its peace and prosperity.
Without any doubt, the late Kolade was a great Nigerian patriot who loved and served his country to the very end. May God comfort the family he left behind.
Chuks Okocha, Linus Aleke in Abuja and Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa
A former governor of Bayelsa State, Chief Timipre Sylva, has denied any involvement in the alleged attempted coup to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Authority on licensees in rela- tion to security of supply, social service, economic development, environmental protection or the use of indigenous materiais.
“Accordingly, Your Excellency can achieve this by giving policy directives to NMDPRA under section 3(4) of the PIA the 15 per cent import tariff on PMS and Diesel, which shall be published in the Federal Government gazette,” it added.
In line with the above, the letter stated that operationali- sation will be straightforward and transparent as tariffs will be collected into a designated
Sylva, who served as Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, confirmed that soldiers deployed from the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) recently raided his Abuja
federal government revenue account issued by the FIRS, now NRS.
In addition, it stated that end-to-end digital verification will be linked to NMDPRA discharge clearance, ensuring no cargo is released without proof of payment, while Customs and NMDPRA will update import templates, supported by a public compliance notice to minimise speculation and rumour-driven volatility.
“A 30-day transition period will be observed to allow market participants to adjust cargoes already in transit. In conclu-
residence, causing considerable damage to the property.
He, however, stated that the operation lacked justifiable reason or proper authorisation.
Reports had earlier emerged that military personnel con- ducted coordinated raids on
sion, this reform will accelerate Nigeria’s path toward fuel self- sufficiency, protect consumers and investors alike, and stabilise the downstream petroleum market. It represents another bold step in Your Excellency’s legacy of reforms that continually strengthen the sustainability and competitiveness of our energy ecosystem.
“In view of the foregoing, Your Excellency is respect- fully invited to consider and, if deemed appropriate: Approve the introduction of a 15 per cent ad-valorem import duty on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS)
Sylva’s residences in Abuja and Bayelsa, following claims of his alleged connection to a botched coupReactingattempt. to the development, the former governor, in a statement issued by his media aide, Julius Bokoru, dismissed
and Diesel, to be assessed on the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) value at discharge, with all payments made into a des- ignated Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) revenue account and verified by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) prior to discharge clearance.
“Direct the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to implement a 15 per cent import duty on Premium Motor Spirit &
the allegations as politically motivated and the handiwork of “desperate and narcissistic politicians” consumed by ambitions ahead of the 2027 generalAccordingelection. to Bokoru, “These rumours are nothing more than the handiwork of desperate and narcissistic politicians, already consumed by ambitions for 2027, who see Sylva as their last real obstacle — a man whose political presence and credibility continue to expose their dark, self-serving ambitions.”
Diesel, with effect after a 30-day transition period from the date of official notification.
“Direct the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), the regulator, to issue appropriate Regulations in this regard and take local production into account first before the issuance of import licenses.
“Direct a periodic review of the tariff rate and its continued necessity, including provisions for scaling or sunset measures, as domestic Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) refining capacity
expands, under the oversight of the Implementation Committee on Crude and Refined Products Sales in Naira,” the letter stated. However, THISDAY learnt that the development has led to apprehension in the downstream sector of the petroleum industry, as many argue that the country does not have enough refining capacity to add a 15 per cent tariff on imported fuel. Nigeria currently imports over 60 per cent of its refined petroleum products, while less than 40 per cent is sourced locally, almost solely from the Dangote refinery.
Late Dr Christopher Kolade
honoUR FoR SARAKi FRom nAiRoBi...
L-R: President, African Democracy Union (ADU), Ms. Louisa Attah-Agyemane; former President of the
Dr. Abubakar
olusegun AD e NIYI
and
The $470 Million Abuja CCTV Scandal
Following the adoption of ‘a motion of urgent public importance’ moved by Hon Amobi Ogah, the House of Representatives resolved last week to investigate the ‘$460 million’ Chinese loan secured by the President Goodluck Jonathan administration to procure and install Closed-Circuit Televisions (ICCTV) cameras in strategic locations within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. This is the third time the House will ‘probe’ this project. That no report was previously issued, and they cannot even get the accurate contract figure is very telling about how they keep records in that place.
Perhaps I should refresh the memory of our Abuja lawmakers. In May 2016, the House established an ad hoc committee headed by Hon Ahmed Yerima to investigate the scandalous project. From what transpired during that exercise, the CCTV cameras were part of the National Public Security Communications System (NPSCS) contract awarded in 2010 to a Chinese company, ZTE Corporation, at a total cost of $470 million (not $460 million). The Chinese Exim Bank provided a $399.5million loan while the federal government paid the balance of 15 percent, amounting to $70.5 million in counter-part funding.
However, when committee members visited what was supposed to be the switch centre at the Nigeria Police Headquarters in Abuja, they were shocked to discover that out of the 1,000 cameras imported at the time, only 40 were said to be “online”. The remaining 960, according to police officers manning the centre, “are down”. Since the project was to generate data by using the code division multiple access (CDMA) technology, even the small amount of equipment brought in soon became obsolete. An angry Tony Nwulu, a member of the visiting House committee, said the project was “planned to fail from the beginning.” At plenary, another member, Hassan Saleh, alleged that ZTE Corporation installed substandard CCTV cameras and that they built into the contract a condition (either accepted or not seen by the officials who signed on behalf of Nigeria) that details should never be made public! Meanwhile, the contract was awarded without the required Certificate of No
Objection from the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) which meant it bypassed due process. Then BPP Director General, Mr. Emeka Eze, confirmed that much to the House committee. But the Nigerian Communications Satellite (NigComSat), which acted as consultant for the project, blamed its eventual abandonment on funding. A former NigComSat Director General, Mr Ahmed Rufai, who served as a member of the project management team, said the federal government failed to provide the required “operational funds” to run the system which he claimed was completed in 2012. “The situation with the project is like buying a new car and refusing to provide money to buy fuel”, Rufai told the lawmakers. “How will the car function?”
Corroborating Rufai, the then Managing Director of ZTE Corporation, Mr Hao Fuqiang, said the project was shut down around 2013 due to “non-operational” fund. But he failed to respond to the allegation that N10.8 billion worth of import waivers were granted to ZTE Corporation by the federal government because of the same contract.
Despite all the public revelations, Nigerians never got to know the findings from the House probe. But in yet another exercise on 24 October 2019, the House Committee on Finance, then chaired by James Faleke, demanded further explanations on the Abuja
CCTV camera project from the Ministry of Finance at a budget defence session. “Before this administration, we collected some loans and the one that strikes me the most is the 460 million dollars (again, a wrong figure) for CCTV installation in Abuja,” Faleke had told then Finance Minister, Zainab Ahmed. In response, Ahmed (currently, the World Bank Group Executive Director representing Angola, Nigeria, and South Africa) said: “We are servicing the loan, but on the project, we will have to ask the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Authority because the project was deployed in the FCT. I have no information on the status of the CCTV.” While the lawmakers did nothing with the damning revelation by Ahmed, it was enough for the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) to institute a court action, using the Freedom of Informa- tion Act. Like many of the numerous cases by SERAP, it went on for years. But a few days before the late President Muhammadu Buhari left office in May 2023, SERAP secured a landmark judgment. Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the federal government to publish the total amount of money paid to Chinese and local companies and contractors as well as the status of the Abuja CCTV project.
What happened after the judgment? Nothing! Even the House of Representatives whose probe prompted SERAP to seek judicial intervention was not interested in the matter. Now, the same House is setting up another probe either to entertain the pubic or engineer a shakedown. But whatever may be their motivation, the story of the Abuja CCTV project is the classic metaphor of Nigeria’s public sector. From the financiers to the equipment suppliers and installers, a $470 million project was designed in the full knowledge that it would fail. The project predictably failed, and public money is now being expended to fund many legislative investigations in a questionable rigmarole that goes on forever.
In Nyesom Wike, if you can excuse his political hubris, the FCT has a Minister who is delivering road infrastructure at an unprecedented pace. But security of lives and property, for which the CCTV cameras project was initiated 15 years ago, is now a serious challenge. More unfortunately, while another dubious foolery goes on in the House of Representatives, Nigerians are being taxed to pay both the principal and interest of a $470 million loan secured for a project that began and ended as an intentional fraud.
Christopher Kolade’s Parting Words
President Bola Tinubu was merely echoing the sentiment of most Nige- rians when he described the late Dr Christopher Kolade as someone who “was exceptionally brilliant, statesmanly, diligent, and had unimpeachable integrity.” But what most people were probably not aware of was the incredible mentorship role the acclaimed broadcaster, diplomat, and corporate leader, played for members of the younger generations of Nigerians. I am a beneficiary of that 20 years ago through the Nigeria Leadership Initiative (NLI) founded by the former Finance/ Trade and Investment Minister, Olusegun Aganga, with Kolade as founding patron…
Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Speaker, House of Representatives
Late Dr Christopher Kolade
Nigerian Senate,
Bukola Saraki,
a former Ghanaian President, Mr. Nana Akufo-Addo, when Saraki was being honoured with the Nana Akufo-Addo African Democracy Award in Nairobi, Kenya... Tuesday
