THURSDAY 3RD JULY 2026

In New Partnership, Nigeria Secures $1.25bn World Bank Support to Boost Jobs New financing to deepen reforms across power, agriculture, digital economy and capital markets Mathew Verghis: Nigeria must address deeper structural constraints to unlock private investment, translate economic stability into improved living standards

James Emejo and Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

The World Bank Group, yesterday, approved a new seven-year partnership framework for

Nigeria, alongside a fresh $1.25 billion financing package aimed at accelerating private investment,

expanding job opportunities, and sustaining the country’s ongoing economic reforms.

The new Country Partnership Framework (CPF), covering 2026 - 2032, sought to translate recent

macroeconomic improvements into Continued on page 8 Thursday 2 July, 2026 Vol 31. No 11407. Price: N400

www.thisdaylive.com TR

UT H

& RE A S O

N

Elombi Renews Call for African Ratings Agency, Says Continent Must Control Its Economic Narrative James Emejo in Abuja

INAUGURATION OF THE FULL SCOPE DEVELOPMENT OF AKINWUMI AJIBOLA STREET...

L-R: Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Eno; Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike; representative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio; Minister of state for the FCT, Mariya Mahmoud; and Senators Eteng Williams and Osita Izunaso, during the PHOTO: SENATE PRESIDENT’S OFFICE inauguration of the full scope development of Akinwumi Ajibola Street in Gaduwa District of the FCT by Akpabio, yesterday

President of African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), Dr. George Elombi, yesterday renewed the bank’s Continued on page 8

State Police: All 36 States in Full Support and Will Give It Speedy Approval, Says Oyebanji Bamidele: Creation of state police, ‘a child of necessity’ Says N’Assembly building mechanisms against its abuse Discloses that constitutional, legal framework will minimise governors’ excesses Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State on Wednesday gave an assurance that all the 36 state governors were fully behind the creation of state police and would

do their absolute best to bring it to fruition.

Speaking with newsmen after presenting his Certificate of Return for second term to President Bola Continued on page 8

AFTER A STRATEGIC MEETING...

The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso (left), and the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, during a strategic meeting in Abuja, yesterday

2

THURSday, JULY 2, 2026 • T H I S D AY

THURSday, JULY 2, 2026 • T H I S D AY

3

4

THURSday, JULY 2, 2026 • T H I S D AY

5

THISDAY • THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026

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

NEWS

HERE IS MY CERTIFICATE OF RETURN...

L-R: Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, presenting his certificate of return to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, with Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI

TCN Declares Force Majeure as Flood Submerges Lagos Substations Power minister wants end to vandalism, estimated billing NERC seeks stronger collaboration, regulatory compliance

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Peter Uzoho in Lagos Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) yesterday declared force majeure on its Oworonshoki 132/33kV and Lekki 330/132kV transmission substations in Lagos after severe flooding caused by persistent rainfall disrupted operations at the facilities.

The development came even as the federal government pledged tougher measures against vandalism, estimated billing, and other challenges undermining the electricity sector.

Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, called for an end to vandalism of power infrastructure, grid sabotage, energy theft, and estimated billing, insisting that restoring the country’s electricity sector requires collective responsibility from all participants in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).

Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), on its part, urged stronger collaboration among operators, strict regulatory compliance, improved customer service, and greater transparency to accelerate reforms in the industry.

In a statement, TCN explained that the force majeure declaration followed

flooding triggered by continuous rainfall in Lagos, which severely affected operations at its Oworonshoki Transmission Substation.

According to the company, although the Lekki 132kV Transmission Substation remained operational because water was being continuously pumped out of the facility, the Oworonshoki substation had been forced out of service after floodwaters affected two of its power transformers.

TCN disclosed that the affected transformers, identified as TR1 with a capacity of 60MVA and TR3 with a capacity of 30MVA, tripped on no-load

and could not be restored despite repeated attempts.

It added that all the protection and control cables connected to the transformers had become submerged, making restoration efforts impossible until the floodwaters receded.

The company said efforts by its engineers to evacuate the water had so far proved ineffective because of the continued heavy rainfall.

“Our engineers are doing everything possible to evacuate the flood to enable them to test the transformers for restoration,” the company stated.

Dike Onwuamaeze

A former Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola has declared that women have ruled the world in a manner that is uniquely theirs without acknowledging it.

Fashola, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), who was a former minister of Power, Housing and Works, made this declaration

yesterday in the National Theatre, Lagos, when he delivered the keynote speech at the Chartered Institute of Directors Nigeria’s (CIoD) “Women Directors Biennial Conference 2026,” with the theme “From Presence to Power: Advancing Women’s Influence in the Boardroom.”

He said: “The first thing I say is that women have ruled our world

Promises more collaboration with African nations to unlock continent’s economic potential Declares National Single Window, Customs reforms powering hitch-free cross-border commerce

President Bola Tinubu has disclosed that Nigeria would intensify collaboration with other African countries to expand intra-African trade, boost value addition across the continent.

According to him, Nigeria will also position Africa to compete more confidently in the global economy through digital commerce by sustaining reforms aimed at dismantling barriers to trade, modernising border processes and connecting African markets through technology as the

electricity crisis could only be resolved through collective action involving generation companies, distribution companies, TCN, Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO), regulators, and government.

According to him, while reforms are ongoing, the immediate priority is protecting existing infrastructure from destruction.

He described vandalism, grid sabotage, and energy theft as acts of “economic warfare” against Nigerian households, stating that power infrastructure should be designated and protected as Critical

National Assets.

The minister said the government would simultaneously optimise existing infrastructure by identifying weak points on the grid, deploying emergency spinning reserves, fast-tracking relay replacements, and extracting maximum available capacity from current assets while new infrastructure was being developed.

On the issue of electricity billing, Tegbe criticised the continued use of estimated billing, saying it unfairly penalises consumers while concealing inefficiencies within the system.

Fashola: Women Have Long Dominated Key Leadership Roles

Tinubu Backs Nigeria’s Digital Economy Drive, Seeks Stronger Intra-African Trade Deji Elumoye in Abuja

TCN apologised for the disruption, expressing regret over the inconvenience to customers of Eko Electricity Distribution Company supplied from the affected transmission substation.

The development underscores the vulnerability of critical electricity infrastructure to extreme weather events and comes as the government intensifies efforts to improve grid reliability and expand electricity access nationwide.

Speaking at the second-quarter Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry Stakeholders’ Meeting, convened by NERC, Tegbe stressed that Nigeria’s

future of commerce on the continent lies in digital integration.

The President, who made the disclosure yesterday, in a message posted on his verified X handle, @officialABAT, welcomed African policymakers, innovators, investors, entrepreneurs and private sector leaders to Lagos for the 2026 African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Digital Trade Forum.

Africa, Tinubu posited, has reached a decisive point where it must move beyond lofty declarations and begin translating continental agreements into tangible economic

opportunities that improve the lives of its citizens.

He added: “This year’s Forum, themed ‘Digital Trade for a Connected African Market,’ comes at a defining moment. Africa must now move from aspiration to execution, and from agreements on paper to prosperity in the lives of our people.”

The President stressed that Nigeria was proud to serve as one of Africa’s AfCFTA Digital Trade Champions, noting that the country was matching that responsibility with concrete policy actions designed to accelerate trade and economic integration.

in a way that is uniquely theirs perhaps without acknowledging it.

“It seems to me that the assumption, or the assertion depending on what you choose, that (for women) power has not translated to influence is something that is not empirically demonstrable because my own experience does not support it.

“My experience in the public service at state level shows that there were more women than men in the Lagos State’s judiciary and in the senior management at the level of permanent secretary, which was the highest career elevation in the public service.

“Perhaps we men had not started making the case that we are now endangered.”

Fashola recalled that Lagos State has had a female head of service and three Chief Judges in immediate succession.

He said: “So by the time I left office, 40 of the 57 judges of the high court of Lagos were women.

“At the magistrate’s court level, the figure was 73 out of 101.

“Seven of the 10 most senior administrative offices in the judiciary were in women’s hands.

“These appointments were not arranged for effect. Each of the three chief judges that succeeded

themselves reached that office on seniority on a ladder that women had climbed in their numbers.

“One of these successions that specially stayed with me is when the second of those three women handed the office over to the third, she was handing it to her own sister, two of them, daughters of the late Justice James, each on her own at the head of the Lagos bench.”

He added that there was nothing to suggest that the women judges were less in control of their courtrooms than the men or that the women permanent secretaries were not effectively in charge of their ministries.

Gates-backed Programme, Others Cut Kano Maternal Deaths to 937 Per 100,000 Births

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

Kano State has recorded a significant decline in maternal mortality, with recent data showing deaths dropping from 1,025 to approximately 937 per 100,000 live births.

The Executive Director of West and Central Africa Health Options (WCAHEALTH), Dr. Ofuoma OmoObi, disclosed the figures Tuesday at a one-day stakeholders’ workshop in Kano reviewing lessons from

the E-MOTIVE project.

He said the accelerating and expanded adoption of RMNCH Program ran from March 2024 to June 2026, funded through Bill, Melinda foundation and TA Connect.

According to him Nigeria has been identified as the global headquarters of maternal deaths, accounting for about 27% of women dying worldwide. “By population, Kano records the highest number.

Within Kano, about 18 local governments account for most of these deaths.”

“We took delivery of 14,000 babies in those local governments with no maternal deaths, about 4,500 women were given calibrated drugs, and 507 who progressed to postpartum haemorrhage were treated successfully. Before this program, those 507 would have been deaths. This program saved them.” Dr. Omo-Obi said. “

6

THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026 • THISDAY

NEWS

PRESENTATION OF CASH PRIZES TO TOP 10 TEAM LAGOS ATHLETES BY PARALLEX BANK...

L-R: Hafsa Kazeem’s grandmother, Mrs. Fatima Mahmud Oyekan; Team Lagos swimming athlete, Hafsa Kazeem; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Parallex Bank, Olufemi Bakre; and Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Mr. Lekan Fatodu, during the presentation of cash prizes sponsored by Parallex Bank to the top 10 Team Lagos athletes who excelled at the 2025 National Youth Games in Asaba, where Team Lagos emerged overall champions for the first time, at the presentation held in Lagos... recently

NOTAP Begins Commercialisation of Research Works for Varsities, Institutions Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja

The National Office for Technology Acquisition and Transfer (NOTAP), has commenced the process of patenting and commercialisation

of research works by universities and other research institutions in the country.

Director General of NOTAP, Dr. Obiageli Amadiobi stated this in Abuja, Wednesday during an interaction with journalists on her

achievements since assuming office.

Speaking on the theme, “Strengthening Indigenous Capacity: NOTAP’s Drive for Technology Transfer, Local Content Development, and Innovative activities,” Amadiobi said the agency had involved both the academia and

industry so that researchers can work on topics brought forward for commercialisation purpose.

“My minister is very intentional about this-- very intentional about commercialisation of research results, which we have already submitted to

AFC Strengthens Nairobi Office, Appoints Fola Fagbule Pioneer Director, Head of Region The Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), the continent’s leading infrastructure solutions provider, has appointed Fola Fagbule as Director and Head of its Regional Office in Nairobi, marking a significant step in the Corporation’s strategy to expand its presence across East and Central Africa.

According to a statement, in his new role, Fagbule will lead AFC’s activities across the region.

The statement explained that the AFC was deepening engagement in a region expected to play an increasingly vital role in advancing infrastructure development, industrialisation, energy security, digital connectivity, regional integration and capital mobilisation across the continent.

Fagbule joined AFC as an Associate in 2009 and has played a significant role in the Corporation’s evolution into Africa’s leading infrastructure solutions provider. He has led the provision of financial advisory services at AFC

since 2017 - originating, structuring and executing transactions valued at more than US$12 billion, including roles on some of the most transformative natural resources, infrastructure, and industrial projects accomplished by AFC and its strategic clients over this period.

His investments and project finance experience spans power, transport, telecommunications, oil and gas, mining, heavy industry, technology, and financial services. He has advised governments, sovereign wealth funds, development finance institutions, pension funds, financial institutions, infrastructure sponsors and corporate clients on various complex transactions.

Reflecting his longstanding interest in historical, political and economic forces that shape African development, Fagbule is the co-author of ‘Formation: The Making of Nigeria from Jihad to Amalgamation (2020).’

Commenting on the appointment,

President and Chief Executive Officer of AFC, Samaila Zubairu said: “East and Central Africa is home to some of the continent’s most compelling opportunities for economic transformation through infrastructure development, industrialisation, and domestic capital mobilisation. This appointment reflects both the strategic importance of the region to AFC’s future growth and our longstanding commitment to developing leaders from within the Corporation.

Fola’s experience, judgment and deep understanding of AFC and Africa’s investment landscape make him exceptionally well positioned to lead our regional platform and expand our engagement across the region.”

As Director and Head of the Regional Office, Fagbule would be responsible for leading AFC’s efforts to originate and develop investment opportunities, deepen strategic partnerships and strengthen relationships with governments, development partners,

Tinubu Flags Off 700km Akwanga-Maiduguri Highway, Vows to Stimulate Economic Growth Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu yesterday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s infrastructure landscape with the flag-off of Section I of the Akwanga–Kaduna–Jos segment of the 700-kilometre Akwanga– Bauchi–Gombe–Biu–Maiduguri Superhighway, describing it as another landmark milestone.

The President, who was

represented at the ceremony by the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, said the project represents the fourth legacy highway initiative of his administration and reflects the government’s determination to build world-class infrastructure that will strengthen national integration, improve road safety, facilitate trade and unlock economic opportunities across the country.

He explained that the superhighway, approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) , is being executed in phases and sections to ensure efficiency and timely delivery. He recalled that on June 4, 2026, he flagged off Section II of the project between Gombe and Biu in Gombe and Borno States, while the commencement of the 125-kilometre Akwanga–Kaduna–Jos Section marks another significant milestone in the realisation of project.

institutional investors, financial institutions and corporate clients across the region. He will also oversee efforts to expand AFC’s investment pipeline, enhance project development activities, and accelerate the mobilisation of long-term capital into strategic infrastructure and industrial assets.

He would be responsible for leading AFC’s scaling up of its operations in the region, following on its recently announced equity investment in the Dhamana Guarantee Company, its strategic role in the expansion of the Dangote Group’s fertilizer and refining operations within the region, and its support for the proposed expansion of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

him. They are meaningful researches, which we need to commercialise.

“We have established 69 intellectual property technology transfer offices in 69 universities that we are still counting. We have informed the vice chancellors of Nigerian universities to set up such offices and we will come and educate them on intellectual property and technology transfers.

“As we are doing this, we are also taking record of all the researchers of these universities and research centres and documenting them in a compendium.

“So, we have compendiums from the universities to us and we put them in a database. If you will recall, recently, the ministry, our supervising ministry, which is the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, launched a programme titled Energise Commercialisation. This entirely was for commercialisation of all R&Ds,” she said.

On research Institutions carrying out research on areas of industry needs, she said, “NOTAP is bridging the gap between research and development with industry needs, “it is on our programme called the NITDF, NOTAP Industry Technology Transfer Fellowship.

By this programme, we engage the universities and the industries,

in what we call the triple helix. We liaise with the universities and the industries to sponsor, the industries will sponsor a Ph.D candidate in a Nigerian university to conduct relevant researches.

“They will provide the topics that they want researches for and such students will research on that with the assistance of the industries, because they wear the shoes, so they know where it pinches them. But usually, there are Ph.D candidates already established. This year alone, we certified about 15 of them to enter into this programme and they have gone into the various universities.

“And we are still looking for people to update some of the projects; the research topics we already have.

But we are not getting enough persons to do the researches. So, we are going to do further advertisement to see if other candidates will come up.

“My minister is very intentional about this. Very, very intentional about commercialisation of research results, which we have already submitted to him. They are meaningful researches, which we need to commercialise.”

Speaking earlier, she said, NOTAP is transforming from a purely regulatory body to an active driver of national development, promotion, and facilitation.

IHS Nigeria Deepens Job Creation Drive through Project Empower in Cross River Emma Okonji IHS Nigeria has strengthened its commitment to youth empowerment in Cross River State by equipping 100 young people in the state who recently graduated from its “Project Empower” initiative.

The beneficiaries were trained in vocational skills and gifted business starter packs to support their businesses and drive sustainable self-employment.

The programme which was implemented in partnership with Field of Skills and Dreams (FSD) and supported by the Cross River State Microfinance and Enterprise Development Agency (MEDA), is designed to create long-term economic opportunities

by equipping unemployed youths with practical, income-generating skills.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony in Calabar, Associate Director, Government Relations and External Affairs, IHS Nigeria, Gbolahan Thomas, said the company’s commitment extended beyond telecommunications infrastructure to investing in people and the communities where it operates.

He noted that sustainability remains at the heart of IHS Nigeria’s operations, adding that improved connectivity should also translate into better access to education, healthcare, employment and economic opportunities.

According to Thomas, Project Empower supports the company’s sustainability agenda by promoting

education, economic growth and community development through vocational and entrepreneurial training.

Since its launch in 2010, he said, the initiative empowered thousands of beneficiaries across Nigeria through strategic partnerships and practical skills development.

The latest cohort received training in solar installation, electrical installation, makeup and beauty, as well as toiletries and soap production.

“Empowering people is one of the most effective ways to drive sustainable development. These graduates now have the skills to build businesses, create jobs and make meaningful contributions to their communities,” Thomas further said.

7

THISDAY • THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026

NEWS

SIGNING OF MOU BETWEEN LASEPA AND SIMPLIFIED IQ LABS...

L-R: Director, Noise Control Unit, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Mrs. Abosede Natufe; Head, Legal Services, Mrs Temitope Kayode; General Manager, LASEPA, Dr. Babatunde Ajayi; Chief Executive Officer of Simplified IQ Labs Limited, Mr. Sam Obi; Company’s Advisor, Mr. David Dogeni; and Director, Public Affairs, LASEPA, Adesoye Oyelami, during the signing of Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) Between LASEPA and Simplified IQ Labs Limited on Scientific approach to Noise Pollution management in Lagos State, held at LASEPA Headquarters, Secretariat, Alausa ...recently

Citing Persistent Regulatory Breaches, Others CBN Revokes Operational Licences of 46 Microfinance Banks James Emejo in Abuja Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), yesterday, revoked the operating licences of 46 microfinance banks across the country, citing persistent regulatory violations and failure to meet the minimum conditions required to continue operating as licensed financial institutions.

The central bank said the revocation, effective July 1, 2026, was approved by CBN Governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, in line with the provisions of Sections 12 and 13 of the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA), 2020.

CBN, in a statement issued by acting Director, Corporate Communications Department, Mrs. Sidi-Ali Hakama, said the affected institutions failed to satisfy key prudential and operational requirements, making regulatory intervention unavoidable.

It said the decision followed one or more identified infractions, including insufficient assets to meet liabilities, closure of operations without regulatory approval, prolonged inactivity and cessation of financial intermediation, failure to commence business within 12 months of obtaining licences, as well as inability to maintain the statutory minimum capital unimpaired by losses.

The central bank stressed that the

action formed part of its broader supervisory efforts to preserve the integrity and stability of the country’s financial system while protecting depositors from the risks associated with weak and non-compliant financial institutions.

The bank maintained that only institutions that met prescribed regulatory standards would be allowed to

operate within the country’s financial system, reiterating its commitment to enforcing compliance across the banking industry.

The apex bank assured the public that it would continue to deploy appropriate supervisory and regulatory measures to strengthen confidence in the financial sector and sustain a safe, sound, and resilient

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha has revealed that President Bola Tinubu would present a book titled, “Tributes and Condolences” in honour of Late President Muhammadu Buhari to the public to mark the one-year anniversary of his death on July 13, 2026.

Mustapha, who is the Chairman of the Central Planning Committee for the one-year remembrance made this known while addressing a press conference on Wednesday in Abuja.

Recall that Buhari died on 13 July 2025 in a clinic in London at approximately 4:30 pm after a

Others are Chanelle MFB, Abia SME MFB, Kamba MFB, Iwade MFB, Winview MFB, Zuru MFB, Minjibir MFB, Shanono MFB, Sumaila MFB, Rimin Gado MFB, Mwaghavul MFB, Sycamore MFB, Tofa MFB, Safegate MFB, Creekline MFB, and Bestar MFB. Those whose licenses were revoked also included Livingspring

MFB, Apple MFB, Stanford MFB, Frontline MFB, Zafec MFB, Supreme MFB, Bejin-Doko MFB, Kanopoly MFB, Bellbank MFB (formerly Tsanyawa), Yeneng MFB, Creditville MFB, MBAG MFB, Straight Sahara MFB, Ourpass MFB, Verdant MFB, Basawa MFB, Casha MFB, Esteem MFB, Entrepreneur MFB and Avantus MFB.

N98.5bn Patent Suit: Court Directs CBN, NIBSS, Others to Explore Settlement

Wale Igbintade

Justice Deinde Dipeolu of the Federal High Court in Lagos has urged parties in a N98.5 billion patent infringement suit involving Enterprise Logistics Speciale Limited, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System Plc (NIBSS), and Avanage Nigeria Limited to explore an amicable settlement before the commencement of trial.

The judge declined to open trial after noting that three of the defendants, Avanage Nigeria Limited, the CBN and the Registrar of Patents and Designs, were not represented in court.

He directed that hearing notices be served on the absent parties and encouraged all sides to engage in genuine settlement discussions.

The plaintiffs, Enterprise Logistics Speciale Limited and its Managing Director, Samuel Kolajo, are seeking about N98.5 billion in damages over the alleged infringement of their patented cash management technology, breach of a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA), and losses they claim resulted from the refusal to deploy their cash management solution on Nigeria’s national payment infrastructure.

At the proceedings, Tayo Oyetibo (SAN), appeared for the plaintiffs, while Olaoluwa Ale-Daniel

One Year Anniversary: Tinubu to Present Book in Honour of Late Buhari Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

financial system.

The institutions whose licenses were revoked included Minji-Se Churchill MFB, Merchant MFB, Janmaa MFB, Busu MFB, Gold MFB, Zain MFB (formerly Dawakin Tofa MFB), Bompai MFB, Ajwa MFB (formerly Gezawa), Now Now Digital MFB, and Crystabel Microfinance Bank.

prolonged illness. He was 82.

Mustapha explained the commemorative event was part of the activities lined up for the forthcoming first anniversary of the passing of Buhari.

He added the event would bring together the family he left behind, his friends and associates, public officials, and well-wishers, to remember his life and to offer prayers and supplications for the repose of his soul.

Mustapha explained the programme would consist principally of interfaith and interdenominational prayers, reflecting the values of unity, faith, and national cohesion that he upheld throughout his life and his

service to our country.

At the event, he stressed that a select number of individuals who worked closely with the late president will speak to his historical legacy and share their personal experiences of him.

Mustapha stated: “A book of tributes, “Tributes and Condolences in Honour of Muhammadu Buhari,” will be presented to the public by the Special Guest of Honour, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. “In its pages, the global community, including heads of state, diplomats, and political leaders, remembered the late president as a man of simplicity, resilience, and integrity.

represented NIBSS. The CBN was not represented by counsel.

Oyetibo informed the court that the matter was scheduled for trial and that the plaintiffs’ witness was present and ready to testify.

Justice Dipeolu, however, held that it would be inappropriate to proceed in the absence of legal representation for Avanage Nigeria Limited, the CBN and the Registrar of Patents and Designs.

He ordered that hearing notices be served on the absent defendants before the next adjourned date.

The judge also reminded counsel of the provisions of the Federal High Court Act, which encourage courts to facilitate amicable resolution of disputes, and urged the parties to make sincere efforts to resolve the matter without proceeding to trial.

Responding, counsel for NIBSS

argued that the payment system operator functions strictly under the regulatory oversight of the CBN and lacks the authority to take unilateral decisions.

He also maintained that NIBSS opposed any arrangement that would create a monopoly, which he said lay at the centre of the dispute.

In reply, Oyetibo argued that the plaintiffs invested substantial resources in developing their patented technologies and were entitled to the exclusive protection and commercial enjoyment of their intellectual property.

He submitted that the innovations, if deployed, would significantly improve Nigeria’s cash management system and benefit the country’s economy.

According to him, the dispute has persisted because of the “selfish

interests” of certain individuals in positions of authority, adding that the economy has been deprived of the benefits of the inventions.

Despite the disagreement, Oyetibo told the court that the plaintiffs remained open to settlement negotiations.

Following the submissions, Justice Dipeolu directed the parties to engage in meaningful discussions with a view to resolving the dispute out of court.

He adjourned the case until October 15 and 16, 2026, for trial if settlement efforts prove unsuccessful.

According to their amended statement of claim, the plaintiffs said they developed a range of innovative cash management technologies from 2011 to modernise Nigeria’s cash handling system and reduce the movement of physical cash within the banking sector.

FG Launches National Education Database, Seeks 100 Percent School Participation Kuni Tyessi in Abuja The federal government Wednesday launched the Digitalised Nigeria Education Management Information System and urged all states, local government education authorities and private school proprietors to submit their data.

Education Minister, Dr. Tunji Alausa, said the platform is now Nigeria’s central repository for education records and described reliable data as the backbone of every successful education reform.

The minister said DNEMIS will provide real-time information on schools, classrooms, teachers, learners, computer laboratories, water, sanitation and hygiene facilities, electricity and other infrastructure.

He said the system will help governments identify gaps, deploy teachers, track enrolment and target funding to communities in need.

According to data released by the Federal Ministry of Education, Nigeria has 213,235 schools. Of that number,

124,548 schools have submitted data, representing a 58.4 per cent reporting rate.

The platform has so far captured 40,130,454 learners, 1,193,877 teachers, 730,447 classrooms and 607,508 toilets.

Alausa said about 90 per cent of public school data had been captured, while private schools were at roughly 50 per cent. He urged private school owners to register and upload their records, adding that the exercise was not for taxation purposes.

8

THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026 • THISDAY

EIGHT

NNPC: N4.8tn Remitted to Federation in 5 Months, May Revenue Drops 12% Profit falls 3.9% to N462bn despite improved oil, gas output Oil company records N4.3tn revenue

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) yesterday announced that it remitted a cumulative N4.858 trillion to the Federation Account as of the end of May 2026, representing a sharp 30.8 per cent increase from the N3.714 trillion recorded a month earlier.

Figures contained in the NNPC Monthly Report Summary for May 2026 showed that cumulative statutory payments to the federation rose by N1.144 trillion between April and May, with Profit After Tax (PAT) declining to N462 billion from N481 billion during the period.

However, the profit of N462 billion recorded in May was despite the relatively huge revenue totalling N4.33 trillion posted by the national oil company.

The report indicated that operational performance strengthened

during the month, with improvements in crude oil and condensate production, natural gas output, pipeline availability and retail station operations.

Besides, average crude oil and condensate production increased to 1.73 million barrels per day (mbpd) in May, compared to 1.68 mbpd in April, representing the highest achieved by the national oil company in at least the last one year.

It reflected sustained improvements in upstream operations after production fluctuated between 1.51 million bpd and 1.68 million bpd over the preceding months.

A breakdown of the production figures showed that crude oil output rose to 1.47 million bpd in May from 1.43 million bpd in April, while condensate production remained unchanged at 0.25 million bpd.

Natural gas production also

improved during the review period, rising from 7,730 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscfd) in April to 7,774 mmscfd in May, an increase of 44 mmscfd or approximately 0.6 per cent.

Gas sales, however, slipped marginally despite the higher production, declining from 5,044 mmscfd in April to 4,921 mmscfd in May, representing a decrease of about 2.4 per cent.

Crude oil and condensate sales equally moderated during the month. Total sales fell from 23.65 million barrels in April to 18.95 million barrels in May, representing a decline of about 19.9 per cent. The figures showed crude oil sales of 17.99 million barrels and condensate sales of 0.96 million barrels in May. Similarly, operational reliability across critical oil and gas infrastructure improved significantly, as upstream pipeline availability

rose to 98 per cent in May, from 79 per cent recorded in April, marking a substantial 19 percentage-point improvement.

The company also reported progress on two strategic pipeline projects. According to the report, activities on the Ajaokuta-KadunaKano (AKK) gas pipeline advanced with construction, installation, and pre-commissioning works progressing towards early gas delivery to Abuja in 2026.

For the Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben (OB3) gas pipeline, NNPC stated that the River Niger crossing had recorded significant progress, with pullback pre-commissioning and tie-in works underway ahead of the targeted commissioning of the full pipeline section by the end of the third quarter of 2026.

The report also showed improvements in retail operations, with the NNPC retail station availability

under its performance management system improving to 57 per cent in May from 54 per cent in April.

Besides, the AKK pipeline performance indicator remained steady at 94 per cent in both months, while the OB3 project advanced to 97 per cent from 96 per cent recorded in April.

Beyond its commercial operations, the company highlighted interventions undertaken through the NNPC Foundation during the month.

Among the key initiatives was the commissioning and handover of a state-of-the-art 1.5 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) system at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, on May 15.

It said the intervention, executed in partnership with GE Healthcare, included training for 40 medical personnel, comprising radiologists and radiographers, to strengthen

Bayo Ojulari, GCEO, NNPC Ltd specialist healthcare delivery and improve access to advanced diagnostic services in the South-east.

NNPC attributed the improved oil production levels to ongoing efforts aimed at resolving facility integrity constraints, reducing maintenance-related shutdowns, and improving asset reliability across its operations.

STATE POLICE: ALL 36 STATES IN FULL SUPPORT AND WILL GIVE IT SPEEDY APPROVAL, SAYS OYEBANJI

Tinubu at State House, Abuja, Oyebanji declared, “We are ready for state police. We are thankful to the National Assembly for the constitutional amendments, and we are waiting for them to be transmitted to the state Houses of Assembly.

“The governors have made up their minds that they are going to give it speedy approval so that we can start implementation.”

The governor said the National Economic Council had already deliberated on the issue and most

states had submitted their positions in support of the initiative.

Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, also speaking at the occasion, described the establishment of state police as inevitable.

Bamidele said the initiative had gone beyond political calculations and had become a practical response to the country’s security realities.

He stated, “It is important that we all know that state police is a child of necessity. It is no longer about political interests or politics.

All of us are on the same page that

there is a need for this.”

The ranking senator, who accompanied Oyebanji to see the president, assured Nigerians that the National Assembly was putting in place constitutional and legal safeguards to prevent the abuse of the proposed state police by governors.

He said concerns over possible misuse of the outfit were being taken seriously.

The senate leader acknowledged concerns that governors could exploit state police for political purposes,

saying such fears are legitimate. But he insisted that lawmakers were already addressing the fears in the constitutional amendment process.

Bamidele stated, “There will always be fears and concerns.

Whether those concerns are wellfounded is another issue altogether, but we are not unmindful of them.

In most cases, they are legitimate concerns.”

He said even under the current policing structure, governors, as chief security officers of their states, could influence the deployment of the

federal police to the extent the system permitted.

He stressed that the proposed legal framework for state police would contain mechanisms aimed at preventing or significantly reducing opportunities for abuse.

Bamidele explained, “We are putting mechanisms in the law, as we are amending the constitution, that will prevent or minimise instances of abuse by state governors.

“It is not everything that can go into the constitution, but what is important is that we are taking

IN NEW PARTNERSHIP, NIGERIA SECURES $1.25BN WORLD BANK SUPPORT TO BOOST JOBS broad-based economic gains by removing long-standing structural bottlenecks that had constrained private sector growth and employment.

World Bank also approved the Nigeria Actions for Investment and Jobs Acceleration (NAIJA) Development Policy Financing (DPF) operation, designed to strengthen the foundations for investment, competitiveness, and inclusive economic growth.

According to the World Bank, the new strategy builds on recent reforms that have resulted in stronger economic growth, improved government revenues, higher foreign reserves, and renewed investor confidence.

It stated, however, that sustained job creation remained Nigeria’s most pressing development challenge.

Under the framework, World Bank planned to support the country in expanding electricity access to 32 million people, providing broadband connectivity for 58 million Nigerians, improving health and nutrition services for 40 million citizens, and supporting 9.5 million farmers through measures to boost agricultural productivity.

The programme also sought to strengthen human capital development while expanding access to digital infrastructure and energy to stimulate private enterprise and improve productivity across critical sectors.

In a statement, World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Mathew Verghis, said the new partnership placed job creation at the centre of the institution’s engagement with the country.

Verghis stated that while recent macroeconomic reforms had helped

stabilise the economy, Nigeria must now address deeper structural constraints to unlock private investment and translate economic stability into improved living standards.

He said, “Our new Country Partnership Framework provides the strategy for how the World Bank Group will support Nigeria over the coming years, with a strong focus on helping to create more and better jobs, particularly by enabling private sector-led growth.

“The recent macroeconomic gains have been critical to help stabilize the economy. Translating improved macroeconomic conditions into better living standards will require addressing the structural constraints to spur private sector investment and job creation.”

The DPF will support government reforms aimed at deepening Nigeria’s capital markets, modernising regulations governing the digital economy and e-governance, advancing electricity sector reforms to accelerate electrification, improving access to quality agricultural seeds, and strengthening domestic revenue mobilisation.

The programme will also support efforts to reduce trade barriers in line with Nigeria’s commitments under ECOWAS and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), a move expected to enhance regional trade and ease price pressures.

The World Bank said the financing formed part of a broader package combining policy reforms with investments in energy, agriculture, digital infrastructure, private sector development, and social protection to improve economic resilience and reduce poverty.

International Finance Corpora-

tion (IFC) Divisional Director for Nigeria, Dahlia Khalifa, said the country’s long-term growth prospects would depend on its ability to attract investment, improve productivity, and unlock private sector employment.

Khalifa said the partnership would help expand infrastructure and essential services while creating conditions for businesses to innovate, compete, and convert ongoing reforms into wider economic opportunities.

Similarly, AMIGA Vice President/Chief Financial Officer, Ed Mountfield, said although Nigeria’s reform programme had opened new investment opportunities,

risks facing investors remained significant.

Nevertheless, Mountfield said MIGA would expand the use of guarantees and political risk insurance under the new framework to encourage greater private investment, particularly in infrastructure and the financial sector, thereby supporting job creation and economic growth.

He said, “Nigeria’s reform progress is creating important opportunities for private investment, but risks remain for investors.

MIGA’s role is to help manage these risks—through guarantees and political risk insurance—so that investors can step in with

confidence.

“Under the CPF, the World Bank Group Guarantee Platform housed within MIGA will scale our support in priority areas such as the financial sector and infrastructure to help unlock jobs and growth.”

Meanwhile, the federal government pledged to strengthen its partnership with the World Bank to accelerate the delivery of safe water and expand irrigation infrastructure as part of efforts to improve food security and create jobs across Nigeria.

Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Utsev, made the Continued on page 27

these concerns into consideration.”

Bamidele disclosed that more detailed operational safeguards would be incorporated into amendments to the Police Act after the constitutional amendment establishing state police was concluded.

According to him, the Police Act would provide detailed provisions that cannot be accommodated in the constitution.

“In the amendment to the Police Act that will follow, we will spell out more details—details that cannot possibly go into the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.

The senate leader also said the widespread support for the proposal among state governors reflected a growing national consensus on the need to decentralise policing in response to Nigeria’s security challenges.

He expressed confidence that the state Houses of Assembly would speedily endorse the constitutional amendment once it was transmitted by the National Assembly.

Bamidele stated, “All the governors, or most of the governors, are on the same page with us, and that will be demonstrated by the speed with which the bill will receive concurrence in their state Houses of Assembly by the time we eventually transmit it.”

ELOMBI RENEWS CALL FOR AFRICAN RATINGS AGENCY, SAYS CONTINENT MUST CONTROL ITS ECONOMIC NARRATIVE advocacy for the establishment of an African-owned credit ratings agency, adding that the continent can no longer afford to have its economic fortunes and borrowing costs determined largely by foreign institutions.

Speaking during Afreximbank’s mid-year media roundtable in Abuja, Elombi said Africa must take ownership of the institutions that shaped investor perceptions, stressing that other regions already operate their own ratings agencies.

He said, “Why should we not have one when other regions have one?”

He insisted that an African ratings institution would provide a fairer assessment of the continent’s economies and development institutions.

According to him, international perceptions continue to influence Africa’s access to capital, borrowing costs, and investment flows, making it imperative for Africans to tell their own

economic story rather than depend solely on external assessments.

Elombi accused international rating agencies of applying inconsistent methodologies that penalised African institutions simply because they operated on the continent.

He pointed out that despite acknowledging Afreximbank’s strong capital position, high-quality collateral, and sound loan portfolio, the agencies routinely downgraded the bank’s overall rating because of what they described as Africa’s risky operating environment.

According to him, the institution effectively suffers a “double penalty”— first through the discounting of the value of African-based assets and then through additional notches applied solely because it operates in Africa.

He maintained that Africa’s loan default record did not justify such assumptions, insisting that the

continent has demonstrated resilience and lower losses than often portrayed internationally.

The Afreximbank president stated that changing the narrative about Africa was as important as mobilising finance, stressing that distorted perceptions have for decades undermined confidence in the continent despite significant progress in infrastructure, industrialisation, and trade.

He maintained that journalism, like banking, should serve as an instrument for development by highlighting both Africa’s challenges and its successes, instead of reinforcing stereotypes centred on conflict, poverty, and instability.

Elombi described Nigeria as the “heartbeat” of Africa’s industrial transformation, citing the Dangote Refinery as evidence of how strategic investments can strengthen the continent’s economic resilience.

He revealed that Afreximbank recently committed $2.5 billion towards expanding the refinery’s capacity, saying the investment is driven not by the needs of the promoter but by Africa’s energy security.

According to him, the refinery proved its strategic value during the recent Middle East crisis by helping to stabilise petroleum supplies and supporting refined fuel exports beyond Nigeria, including to countries, such as Ethiopia.

He said Afreximbank planned to replicate similar refinery, storage, and pipeline infrastructure across East, Central and Southern Africa to reduce the continent’s dependence on imported petroleum products and improve energy security.

Elombi also defended the bank’s growing relevance, recalling that Continued on page 27

9

THISDAY • THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026

NEWS

OPENING OF THE 9TH EDITION OF THE LAGOS LEATHER FAIR...

Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; CEO of Ankarabae, Precious Nwankwo; Founder and CEO of FemiHandbags and Convener of the Lagos Leather Fair, Femi Olayebi; and Assistant Vice President, Development Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Ayodele Ojosipe, during the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the opening of the 9th edition of the Lagos Leather Fair (LLF 2026) in Lagos... recently

Tinubu: Why We’re Rebranding NYSC as National Devt Scheme Says corps now to be headed by civilian DG, supported by four executive directors, including one for security services Directs youth devt, justice ministries to fast-track process of amending NYSC Act

Deji Elumoye in Abuja President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday justified the decision of his government to rebrand the 53-year-old National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) as a national development scheme.

The president, in a post on his

verified X account, @official ABAT, disclosed that his administration was repositioning the NYSC from a mobilisation scheme into a national development platform for skills, employability, productivity, and enterprise.

Tinubu directed the ministry

of youth development and that of justice to fast-track the process of amending the NYSC Act and subsidiary regulations.

He said NYSC will now be headed by a civilian Director-General, supported by three Executive Directors, including a Security Services Executive

Director, who will be a military or paramilitary officer.

The president, in the post on X, stated, “On Monday, at the Federal Executive Council, our administration approved the most consequential reforms of the National Youth Service Corps Scheme since its establishment

SPS Rumueme Wins Oando Foundation’s Primary School STEAM Competition Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

State Primary School, Rumueme, in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, has emerged winner of the 2025 Oando Foundation Primary School STEAM Competition, clinching a classroom upgrade project valued at N2.5 million.

The school won the competition with its innovative project featuring a table, fan, and light bulb powered by lemons during the close-out ceremony of the Oando Foundation School STEAM Project held in Port Harcourt.

The initiative, implemented across 30 public primary schools in Rivers State, is aimed at strengthening the teaching and learning of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) while

equipping pupils with critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving skills required in the 21st century.

State Primary School, Elekahia, emerged first runner-up with its biogas production project using organic waste, and received a N2 million prize, while State Primary School, Rumuokwurusi, came third with its sustainable playground project and was awarded N1.5 million.

Other finalists included Universal Primary Education (UPE), Choba, which showcased a water dispenser project, and All Saints Model Primary School, Rumuokwurusi, which developed a smart waste bin designed to eliminate odour.

Speaking at the event, Head of Oando Foundation, Ms. Tonia Udui-

moh, said the foundation remained committed to expanding access to quality education and ensuring that children in public schools acquired practical skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

According to Uduimoh, the foundation’s goal is not only to improve access to education but also to enhance learning outcomes by exposing pupils to experiential and hands-on learning.

She stated the STEAM project was introduced to bridge existing gaps in science education in public primary schools by making learning practical, engaging and enjoyable for pupils.

Uduimoh said, “This project is about preparing children for the future. The traditional way of learning is no longer enough.

S’Court Goes Digital, Ends Era of Manual Filing of Cases Alex Enumah in Abuja As part of efforts towards efficient justice delivery in the country, the Supreme Court of Nigeria on Wednesday, commenced electronic process of filing of appeals.

Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, during the official launch of the Nigerian Case Management System (NCMS), stated the innovation which is a landmark reform, is targeted at

modernising judicial administration, improving efficiency and strengthening the integrity of court records.

The implementation of the NCMS and the coming into force of the Supreme Court (Mandatory Upload of Electronic Copies of Processes, Records of Appeal and Other Matters) Practice Directions, is seen as a major step towards building a fully digitised and technology-driven Supreme Court.

“The Judiciary in Nigeria cannot

afford to remain on the sidelines of this global transformation,” the CJN said, adding that the NCMS is designed to support the entire lifecycle of appeals before the Supreme Court by reducing reliance on manual processes and paper-based record management.

According to Kekere-Ekun, the system would improve case tracking, document management, record retrieval and overall workflow within the court registry.

Children need opportunities to develop critical thinking, creativity and innovation through practical learning experiences.”

She explained that the project was piloted in 30 public primary schools across Rivers State, stressing that its success has encouraged the foundation to scale up the initiative.

She commended the Rivers State Universal Basic Education Board (RSUBEB), STEM METS, teachers, volunteers, and Oando employees who served as mentors, for their contributions to the project’s success.

in 1973.

“On the day I was sworn in as your President, I promised to create meaningful opportunities for our young people. I said women and youth would feature prominently in our administration, and this reform is partly the actualisation of that promise.

“For 53 years, the NYSC has served the cause of national unity.

That mission remains important and must be preserved.”

He added, “But the Nigeria of today demands more.

“Our young people are nearly 70 per cent of our population. They are not a burden to be managed… They are the engine of the one-trillion-dollar economy we are building and the hope of this nation.

“We are repositioning the NYSC from a mobilisation scheme into a national development platform for skills, employability, productivity and enterprise.

“The NYSC orientation programme will now become a six-week journey.

“It will begin with civic responsibility, leadership, values and personal

development. It will then move into career readiness, entrepreneurship, digital and financial skills. Finally, corps members will receive specialised training aligned with their academic background and career pathway.”

The president explained, “These streams will include agriculture, health, education, technology, law, public service, infrastructure, green economy, enterprise, creative economy, and para-military/security service.

“Every corps member must leave NYSC better prepared for work, enterprise and national service.

“We are also making the NYSC Scheme safer and smarter.

“Deployment to securitychallenged states will be guided by risk assessment. It will prioritise indigenes, residents, graduates of institutions in those states and those from neighbouring states within the same geopolitical zones.

“The call-up process will become technology-driven and primary assignments will be better aligned with each corps member’s skills, academic background and career stream.”

Delta Senatorial: Court Hears Ex-DESOPADEC Chairman, Micheal Diden’s Suit against Senator Onowakpo, APC, INEC July 6 Alex Enumah in Abuja Justice Mohammed Umar of a Federal High Court, Abuja, on Wednesday fixed July 6 for definite hearing in the suit challenging the outcome of the primary election of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in Delta South Senatorial District.

The judge fixed the above date for definite hearing shortly after directing parties to file and exchange all necessary processes for and against the suit, filed by a former Chairman of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Prince Micheal Diden.

The plaintiff’s suit was predicated on the 1st defendant’s (Senator Joel Onowakpo) declaration as winner

of the APC’s primary election in the Delta South Senatorial District, held on May 18, 2026.

While Diden is the plaintiff in the suit dated and filed May 30, the Senator representing Delta South in the National Assembly, Senator Joel Onowakpo, APC and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) are 1st, 2nd and 3rd respondents, respectively.

The former DESOPADEC boss, also known as “Ejele”, is claiming he secured the highest number of votes cast at the primary election, and should be declared candidate of the APC for the Delta South Senatorial District election, slated for January next year.

When the matter came up on Wednesday, plaintiff’s counsel, Mr.

Bankole Akomolafe, SAN, reminded the court that the suit was slated for hearing and that he was ready to proceed.

He however noted that the 1st defendant’s lawyer, Mr. Habeeb Lawal, just served him with his statement of defence and as such needs about two days to file his reply to the defence statement.

The senior lawyer drew the attention of the Court to the fact that the defence statement was filed since June 24 and wondered why it was not immediately served on him as required by law.

Responding, trial judge asked parties to allow a few days adjournment to prevent obstacles in the hearing of the matter.

10

THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026 • THISDAY

NEWS

WEMA BANK HACKAHOLICS 7.0 PRESS CONFERENCE...

L-R: Head of Innovation, Wema Bank, Solomon Ayodele; Divisional Executive, Business Support, Wema Bank, Tajudeen Bakare; Chief Human Resources Officer, Wema Bank, Ololade Ogungbenro; and Chief Information Officer, Wema Bank, Olugbenga Babatunde, at the Wema Bank Hackaholics 7.0 press conference in Lagos, yesterday

West Africa Battles Escalating Drug Crisis as Cocaine Seizures Double, Synthetic Drugs Spread Michael Olugbode in Abuja West Africa is confronting an increasingly sophisticated drug crisis, with cocaine seizures doubling, the proliferation of dangerous synthetic substances and pharmaceutical opioids, and growing social consequences prompting renewed calls for stronger regional cooperation, intelligence sharing and evidencebased interventions.

The warning came as experts, government officials and representatives of Member States gathered for the validation of the 2025 West African Epidemiology Network on Drug Use (WENDU) data and a regional training workshop, where they stressed that reliable data remains the foundation for effective policies to combat illicit drug trafficking, substance abuse and transnational organised crime.

Speaking at the meeting, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Principal Programme Officer for Drug Prevention and Control, Dr. Daniel Amankwa, described the annual WENDU exercise as a critical regional mechanism for monitoring drug trends and ensuring governments have credible evidence to guide interventions.

According to him, the validation process allows Member States to verify and harmonise data submitted to the ECOWAS Commission before

the publication of the regional report.

“The WENDU report reflects what is happening with drug abuse, illicit drug trafficking and related crimes across West Africa. Every year, Member States collect and submit data, which are compiled into a regional report and validated to ensure accuracy before publication,” he said.

Although the 2025 report is still undergoing validation, Amankwa said findings from the completed 2024 report reveal disturbing trends that underscore the urgency of coordinated regional action.

He disclosed that cannabis remains the most widely consumed illicit drug across West Africa, but warned that the rapid emergence of synthetic drugs and counterfeit pharmaceutical products has significantly complicated the region’s drug landscape.

According to him, authorities are increasingly encountering high-dose tramadol and new psychoactive substances such as Kush, whose chemical compositions have been illegally altered to increase potency.

“We are not referring to legitimate pharmaceutical products,” he explained. “We are talking about tramadol that should ordinarily contain 50 milligrams but is now found in 200, 250, 300, 400 and even 500 milligram formulations that are being abused.”

Amankwa also revealed that cocaine trafficking through West

Africa has risen sharply.

“The 2024 report showed that cocaine arrests and seizures doubled across the region. Preliminary indications suggest that this trend is continuing in 2025, although the data are not yet conclusive,” he said.

The development mirrors global assessments indicating that cocaine production has reached record levels, with West Africa continuing to serve as a major transit corridor for consignments destined for Europe.

Beyond trafficking statistics,

Amankwa warned that drug abuse is exacting enormous economic, social and public health costs on West African societies, particularly among young people.

He explained that addiction fuels a vicious cycle of unemployment, poverty and crime, while weakening family structures and reducing national productivity.

“When people become addicted, it becomes difficult for them to work effectively. That contributes to unemployment, which in turn

fuels poverty. Poverty itself can also push people into drug use.

It becomes a cycle that reinforces itself,” he said.

He added that many people struggling with drug dependence resort to criminal activities to sustain their addiction, worsening insecurity across the region.

“The impact is enormous. It affects the economy because productivity declines. It affects health. It fuels crime. It also weakens families and social values.”

Amankwa argued that the evolving nature of drug trafficking requires more than arrests and seizures, noting that criminal organisations constantly introduce new substances and concealment methods whenever law enforcement disrupts existing routes.

“Each time authorities develop strategies against one drug or trafficking method, another substance or concealment technique emerges.

Criminal networks continue to evolve.”

FG, LASG, Council Chairmen Roll Out Adopt-ASchool Snacks for Thought PBAT Feeds Initiative The Federal Government, in collaboration with the Lagos State Government and 57 Local Government and Local Council Development Areas, on Tuesday launched the Adopt-a-School: Snacks for Thought – PBAT FEEDS initiative to provide nutritious breakfast meals for primary school pupils in Lagos.

The programme, introduced under the Renewed Hope National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme, was officially flagged- off on Tuesday at Lagos Island East Local Council Development Area (LCDA) secretariat in Lagos Island.

The PBAT FEEDS, is aimed

at improving school attendance, participation, concentration and academic performance.

The initiative was launched in different centres across the three senatorial districts and 20 local governments and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), designed as a public-private partnership that encourages support from corporate organisations, development partners, philanthropists and other stakeholders to enhance the welfare of schoolchildren.

The event featured the distribution of breakfast packs, school bags, tablets, snack boxes, water bottles, flasks, notebooks and other educational materials to pupils.

Stakeholders at the event expressed confidence that the initiative would improve child nutrition, strengthen learning outcomes and help reduce the number of out-of-school children nationwide.

The Lagos State governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, during the programme said the initiative is an investment into the nation’s future, noting that nourishing children is key to building a stronger society.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Mrs. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, stressed the government remains open to partnerships that improve the

wellbeing of children, adding that nation-building requires the collective efforts of both the public and private sectors.

He said when hunger is addressed, poverty is reduced. He also noted that collective efforts were essential to achieving sustainable development.

“Lagos State will continue to partner with the Federal Government, private organisations, NGOs and every well-meaning individual willing to support our children.

Nation-building is not the responsibility of government alone. We are doing our best, but we welcome every genuine partnership that will improve the lives of our children.

NUC Approves 12 New Academic Programmes FG, Rivers, Oil Firms Move to Tackle Bille Gas Leak for Sa’adu Zungur University Bauchi Fubara seeks full resolution of leakage, pledges upgrade of community health centre Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi

The Bauchi State Governmentowned Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU), Gadau, has recorded another significant milestone in its academic development with the approval of 12 new undergraduate and postgraduate programmes by the National Universities Commission (NUC).

The approval, conveyed in a letter dated 15th June 2026, followed a comprehensive resource assessment exercise conducted by the Commission to ascertain the University’s preparedness in terms of academic personnel, physical infrastructure, library holdings,

laboratories, and other facilities required for the successful delivery of the proposed programmes.

The programmes, approved to commence in the 2026/2027 Academic Session, are: Undergraduate Programmes, B.A. (Ed.) Arabic, B.A. (Ed.) Hausa, B.A. (Ed.) Islamic Studies, B.A. Sharia, B.Sc. Social Work, B.Sc. (Ed.) Agricultural Science, B.Sc. (Ed.) Human Kinetics, B.Sc. (Ed.) Health Education.

Postgraduate Programmes are: M.Ed. Educational Management, Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), Postgraduate Diploma (PGD), LL.M. and Ph.D. Law, Postgraduate Diploma (PGD), M.Sc. and Ph.D. Sociology.

Commenting on the development, the Vice-Chancellor of SAZU, Professor Fatimah Tahir, described the approval as a clear affirmation of the university’s commitment to academic quality, institutional growth and strict compliance with the regulatory standards of the National Universities Commission.

She observed the addition of the new programmes is in line with the university’s strategic vision of expanding access to quality higher education, strengthening research and innovation, and producing graduates equipped with the knowledge, skills and competencies required to address contemporary national and global challenges.

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt The Federal Ministry of Petroleum and Oil, the Rivers State Government and gas operators have agreed on measures to address the gas eruption in Bille Community, Degema Local Government Area.

This as Governor Siminalayi Fubara has demanded quick and full resolution to the challenges arising from the gas leakage in the Bille community.

Fubara who spoke during an enlarged meeting of key stakeholders, comprising representatives of the federal government, the state government and leaders of the community, pledged to upgrade the Primary Healthcare Centre in the Bille to enable it address

the health challenges confronting the community.

The meeting was held to review the situation in the community and explore available opportunities to save the people from the adverse impacts of environmental pollution.

Fubara explained that the state government had earlier visited the affected community alongside officials of the Federal Ministry of Petroleum and the operating companies to assess the situation following appeals by residents for urgent intervention.

He said the latest meeting enabled all stakeholders to jointly examine the cause of the gas eruption and agree on practical steps to resolve the problem.

Describing the meeting as produc-

tive, the governor expressed confidence that it would lead to concrete actions, noting that the Bille delegation, led by its traditional rulers, welcomed the outcome.

“I can say that it was a very successful meeting because the Bille community, ably represented by their chiefs, are all smiling. It means that the outcome of the meeting was a good one,” Fubara said.

The governor added that both the federal government and the operating companies had assured the community of prompt intervention, expressing optimism that significant remedial work would commence within the next few weeks to bring the situation under control.

THURSday, JULY 2, 2026 • T H I S D AY

11

12

THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026 • THISDAY

NEWS

CLOSE OUT CEREMONY OF THE OANDO FOUNDATION SCHOOL STEAM PROJECT...

L-R: Director of Primary Education, Rivers State Universal Basic Education Board (RSUBEB), Mrs. Nimi Davies; Co-Founder, STEM Mets, Mrs. Jadesola Adedeji; Operations Division Manager, Oando Energy Plc, Mr. Boniface Nwachukwu; Head, Oando Foundation, Ms Tonia Uduimoh; Executive Chairman, RSUBEB, Mr. Samuel Ogeh; and representatives of the winning schools, at the close out ceremony of the Oando Foundation School STEAM Project held in Port Harcourt, on Tuesday

Akpoti-Uduaghan Applauds Air Peace’s Humanitarian Evacuation of 533 Nigerians Commends airline’s patriotism, praises collaboration with federal government Sunday Aborisade in Abuja Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has commended Air Peace for successfully evacuating 533 stranded Nigerians from South Africa, describing the exercise as a demonstration of patriotism,

compassion, and corporate commitment to national service.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, the senator for Kogi Central Senatorial District, praised the airline following the completion of its second humanitarian evacuation mission carried out in collaboration with the federal

government.

Air Peace announced on Tuesday that it had safely returned another 271 Nigerians from South Africa aboard one of its Boeing 777-200 aircraft, bringing the total number of evacuees in two separate missions to 533.

The airline said the latest exercise was its 16th humanitarian and evacuation mission, reflecting its continued involvement in emergency response operations for Nigerians facing crises abroad.

Reacting to the development, in a statement on Wednesday,

Akpoti-Uduaghan lauded the airline’s management and staff for prioritising national interest over commercial considerations.

She said the successful evacuation demonstrated that corporate leadership extended beyond profitability to include compassion, patriotism,

NDLEA Takes Custody of 6.8 Tonnes of Canadian Loud Seized at Lagos Port, Vows Crackdown on Drug Syndicates Michael Olugbode in Abuja

National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) said it had formally taken custody of 6,778.5 kilogrammes (about 6.8 tonnes) of Canadian Loud, a potent strain of cannabis, intercepted at the Apapa Port in Lagos in what authorities described as one of Nigeria’s biggest anti-narcotics seizures in recent years.

The seizure, made during joint examinations of two shipping containers by operatives of NDLEA, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), and other security agencies, is being hailed as a major breakthrough in the fight against transnational drug trafficking and a testament to growing interagency and international intelligence cooperation.

Speaking during the formal handover ceremony at Apapa Port

on Wednesday, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig.

Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd), represented

by Director of Seaport Operations, ACGN Ibinabo Archie-Abia, said the operation sent a strong warning to international drug cartels that Nigeria was closing its borders to illicit narcotics.

Marwa declared, “Through two major seizures recorded on June 15 and June 24, 2026, we send a clear and unequivocal message that we are more determined than ever to dismantle organised criminal syndicates and drug trafficking networks operating within and beyond our borders.”

The seizure followed months of intelligence-driven investigations led

by NDLEA’s Special Investigation Unit and Marine Intelligence Unit, working closely with Royal Canadian

Mounted Police (RCMP) and Nigeria Customs Service.

Marwa said the traffickers employed sophisticated maritime routes spanning multiple continents in an attempt to evade law enforcement, but NDLEA operatives successfully tracked the consignments from Canada to Nigeria.

He explained that the first container, CAAU 7569127, departed Toronto on April 16, 2026, travelled by rail to Montreal before being loaded onto the vessel Ghallow Express.

It was later trans-shipped at Tangier Med, Morocco, onto Spartel Trader, arriving at Tin Can Island Port before being moved through the Global Bonded Terminal and eventually to Apapa Port, where it was intercepted on June 10 during a joint examination.

The second container, HAMU

3246311, departed Montreal on May 1 aboard Africa Express, was later trans-shipped onto Algeciras Express, arrived at Tin Can Island Port on June 4, and was transferred to Apapa Port on June 22, where NDLEA officers were waiting.

Marwa stressed that the agency’s strategy went beyond intercepting illicit consignments, warning that investigators would pursue the financiers and beneficiaries behind the trafficking networks.

He stated, “We recognise that the staggering profits generated by illicit drug trafficking continue to fuel

crimes against humanity and against our nation despite the devastating toll they take on individuals, families and communities.

“Our work does not end with seizure. We are committed to identifying, arresting and prosecuting those responsible, confiscating their criminal assets, and ensuring they derive no benefit whatsoever from their illegal enterprise.”

The NDLEA boss also commended the Nigeria Customs Service and other security agencies for what he described as exemplary professionalism and collaboration.

and service to humanity.

According to her, the return of the stranded Nigerians underscores the importance of ensuring that citizens are not abandoned during emergencies and highlights the values of solidarity and national responsibility.

The senator also praised the partnership between Air Peace and the federal government, saying it illustrates the benefits of collaboration between public institutions and the private sector in addressing humanitarian challenges.

She stated such cooperation strengthened public confidence in Nigeria’s emergency response capacity and set a positive example for other corporate organisations.

Akpoti-Uduaghan urged businesses across the country to emulate Air Peace’s commitment to humanitarian service and national development, particularly at a time when many Nigerians abroad continued to face uncertainties.

She welcomed the evacuated citizens back to the country and expressed hope that they would successfully reunite with their families and rebuild their lives.

ASUU Faults Ondo Over Unpaid Lecturers’ Allowances, Warns of Fresh Crisis Government says implementation underway

Egbedokun said the government’s FGN-ASUU Agreement, described as Wema Bank Introduces 3 tracks, 7 Verticals, Millions FidelisDavidinAkure inaction had adversely affected the the first comprehensive pact between Academic Staff Union of Uni- welfare of lecturers and undermined both parties since the landmark 2009 versities (ASUU), Akure Zone, has the effective functioning of state- agreement, took effect financially of Naira in Grant Prizes at 7th Edition of Hackaholics The accused the Ondo State Government owned universities, stressing the on January 1, 2026. According to Bennett Oghifo

Wema Bank, Nigeria’s oldest indigenous national bank, most innovative and pioneer of Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, has announced the 7th edition of its flagship innovation initiative, Hackaholics.

The announcement was made at the official press conference which took place on July 1, 2026, at the Wema Bank Head Office in Lagos, Nigeria.

Launched in 2019, Hackaholics is Wema Bank’s youth and tech-focused initiative designed to serve as a platform

for young Africans with creative, game changing, tech-driven ideas and products, to bring their ideas to life.

Since its launch, Hackaholics has discovered thousands of groundbreaking solutions, supported over 10,000 startups, engaged 50,000 participants, developed over 100 solutions from scratch and disbursed $500,000,000 in grant prizes to dozens of winners whose remarkable solutions have earned a top spot in the past 6 editions.

With the launch of Hackaholics 7.0, Wema Bank is set to execute the biggest Hackaholics edition yet.

Themed “Powering Possibilities”, Hackaholics 7.0 will kick off with an open call for applications, calling on all young Africans with creative tech-driven solutions across any of the 7 verticals: Financial Inclusion, Healthcare, Digital Transformation, Education, Sustainability, Social Impact and Future of Work.

Each application is to be made via the portal at hackaholics.wemabank. com, under one of three tracks: The Startup Pitch Competition, Hackathon and the newly introduced Social Impact track.

of failing to implement the financial provisions of the 2025 Federal Government-ASUU Agreement, warning the continued delay could trigger industrial action across the state’s tertiary institutions.

Speaking on behalf of the zonal leadership during a press conference held on Wednesday at the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo, the Zonal Coordinator, Adeola Egbedokun, said the state government had ignored its obligations under the agreement despite being fully aware of its provisions.

union deemed it necessary to alert stakeholders, including students, parents, civil society organisations and the general public.

“Despite receiving the agreement and being fully apprised of its obligations, the Ondo State Government has continued to actively ignore its provisions. This persistent inaction has adversely affected the welfare of our members and continues to undermine the effective functioning of the state-owned university system,” he said.

The union explained that the 2025

ASUU, the agreement provides for the payment of the Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance (CATA), Earned Academic Allowance (EAA) and Professorial Allowance to improve lecturers’ welfare and promote excellence in teaching and research.

However, six months after the implementation date, the union lamented that lecturers in Ondo State-owned tertiary institutions had yet to benefit from the approved allowances, while arrears continued to accumulate.

THURSday, JULY 2, 2026 • T H I S D AY

13

14

T H I S D AY • THURSday JULY 2, 2026

Politics

Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com 08033025611 sms only

Akintunde: Today’s Sacrifices Will Ultimately Yield Positive Results for Nigeria

Convener of an influential political group in Ogun State, Yayi Progressives Movement, ‘Tope Akintunde in this interview submits that President Bola Tinubu’s economic reform policies remain best for Nigeria. He also posits that Senator Solomon Adeola and Prince Dapo Abiodun are most suitable candidates for Ogun State Governorship and Ogun East Senatorial positions respectively during January, 2027 poll. James Sowole brings excerpts.

A

s a grassroot political mobiliser in Ogun State, what is your political journey like so far?

I am Armstrong ‘Tope Akintunde, from the family of the late Fowodara of Araromi, Iperu-Remo in Ogun state. I attended the then University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (UNAAB), now the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), where I earned my bachelor’s degree.

I began my professional career in 2009 with Suru Group Limited, a Lagos-based real estate company, where I served as Executive Director, Special Projects. At the same time, I also served as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Aerofield Homes Limited. Over the years, I have had the privilege of attending several real estate and project management courses, seminars, training programmes, and conferences in Nigeria, Europe, and the United States. Most recently, I completed an executive Real Estate programme at Saïd Business School, University of Oxford, United Kingdom.

I am a Fellow of the Institute of Professional Managers and Administrators of Nigeria (IPMA), an Associate Member of the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM), and a Certified Customer Relationship Manager (CRM/CEP).

In recent years, I was also awarded an honourary Doctorate Degree in Business Administration and Corporate Governance by the EuropeanAmerican University, in collaboration with the Kingdom of Bunyoro-Kitara and the Republic of Panama, among other recognitions.

My passion has always been to provide affordable and decent housing for Nigerians, and that vision continues to drive our operations.

Politics, on the other hand, provides another avenue through which I can serve my community. My passion for grassroots mobilisation and public engagement naturally drew me into active political participation.

Nigeria is currently facing economic and security challenges. Can President Bola Tinubu’s policies deliver the desired results?

Every nation passes through difficult periods.

Nigeria is not an exception. While the present economic and security challenges are real, I believe they are temporary and that the country is on the path to recovery. President Bola Tinubu is working tirelessly to address insecurity, strengthen the economy and reposition Nigeria for sustainable growth. These reforms may be difficult in the short term, but I am confident history will acknowledge them as necessary steps towards rebuilding the country.

No Nigerian is happy about the present hardships, particularly insecurity, but meaningful reforms require patience.

As the saying goes, Rome was not built in a day. My appeal to Nigerians is to remain supportive, united and hopeful. I believe the sacrifices being made today will ultimately yield positive results for the nation.

As Convener of the Yayi Progressives Movement and Chairman of Aerofield Homes Limited, how are you able to balance business with politics?

I believe success comes from having clarity of purpose. Real estate is my profession, while politics is my passion for public service. I started both journeys early in life, and today, by God’s grace, both my company and political movement have become household names. I don’t see the two as conflicting. They complement each other because each serves different purposes.

Business enables me to contribute economically, while politics allows me to contribute socially and politically. Proper planning, discipline and commitment have made it possible to manage both successfully.

What inspired the formation of the Yayi Progressives Movement?

Akintunde

The movement has evolved through different stages of political engagement.

Ahead of the 2023 general election, it began as the Dapo Abiodun Continuity Agenda (DACA), established to support Governor Dapo Abiodun’s re-election.

As political realities changed and consultations expanded, the platform transformed into the Omoluabi Movement to embrace broader progressive ideals centred on inclusiveness and people-oriented leadership. Following strategic collaborations with several political support groups, including artisan associations across Ogun State, it eventually became the Yayi Progressives Movement.

This transformation was deliberate.

It reflects our determination to build a stronger grassroots political platform capable of mobilising citizens across all parts of Ogun State under a shared progressive vision.

What distinguishes the Yayi Progressives Movement from other political groups in Ogun State?

The Yayi Progressives Movement has grown into one of the largest grassroots political organisations in Ogun State, with membership exceeding 50,000 across the state’s 20 local government

areas.

Our strength lies in inclusiveness. We bring together youths, women, artisans, students, professionals, community leaders and party loyalists under one platform.

Beyond politics, we provide opportunities for mentorship, leadership development and civic participation, particularly for young people. We remain committed to supporting all APC candidates while promoting grassroots participation and democratic engagement throughout Ogun State.

Governor Dapo Abiodun is the APC candidate for Ogun East Senatorial seat in the forthcoming general election, what are his chances?

I believe Governor Dapo Abiodun’s chances are very bright. Having served Ogun State for nearly eight years, his achievements in infrastructure, education, healthcare and economic development speak for themselves. His leadership style has been inclusive, consultative and focused on delivering results across all parts of the state. His transition to the Senate would enable him to continue representing Ogun’s interests at the national level while consolidating the developmental gains recorded during his administration.

The opposition has criticised Senator Solomon Adeola’s emergence as the APC’s preferred governorship candidate. What

No Nigerian is happy about the present hardships, particularly insecurity, but meaningful reforms require patience. As the saying goes, Rome was not built in a day. My appeal to Nigerians is to remain supportive, united and hopeful.

I believe the sacrifices being made today will ultimately yield positive results for the nation.

is your response?

Every opposition party is entitled to its opinion. However, our focus remains on presenting the best candidate to the people of Ogun State. Historically, Yewa has never produced a governor since the creation of Ogun State over 50 years ago. Many believe 2027 presents an opportunity to promote fairness, equity and inclusiveness by supporting a qualified candidate from that axis. Senator Olamilekan Adeola has demonstrated competence through his legislative experience and commitment to public service. I believe he possesses the capacity, experience and leadership qualities required to govern Ogun State successfully.

What stands Senator Adeola out for the position?

Senator Adeola combines legislative experience, administrative competence and grassroots appeal. Throughout his years in public office, he has built a reputation for effective representation, infrastructure development and prudent management of public resources. His vision for Ogun State centres on economic growth, industrial expansion, infrastructure renewal, education, healthcare and youth empowerment.

Equally important is his ability to unite different political interests within the APC while maintaining strong relationships across the state. I believe he offers the experience, vision and leadership needed to move Ogun State to greater heights.

What is your message for the people of Ogun State?

Our commitment as members of the All Progressives Congress is to continue mobilising support for good governance and democratic development. The Yayi Progressives Movement will continue expanding its grassroots engagement across the state, encouraging greater political participation and supporting policies that promote sustainable development. I urge the people of Ogun State to remain peaceful, united and committed to the progress of our dear state. Together, we can build a more prosperous Ogun where development reaches every community.

15

T H I S D AY • THURSday, JULY 2, 2026

FEatures

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

How UBA Turned a Wellness Initiative into a Pan-African Drive for Environmental Sustainability

United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc recently reinforced its commitment to environmental sustainability by mobilising thousands of employees across 20 African countries for a coordinated clean-up exercise, transforming its flagship "Jogging to Bond" wellness initiative into a pan-African campaign for community service and environmental stewardship. The event, which also coincided with the 60th birthday of the Bank's Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Oliver Alawuba, saw the milestone marked not with fanfare, but alongside employees in a celebration of teamwork, wellness and shared responsibility for cleaner communities. Chiemelie Ezeobi reports

L-R: Group Deputy Managing Director, United Bank for Africa (UBA), Chukwuma Nweke; Group Managing Director's daughter, Elizabeth Oly-Alawuba; Group Managing Director/CEO, UBA, Oliver Alawuba; his wife, Professor Nkeiruka Oly-Alawuba; Head of Business, UBA, Babatunde Ajayi; and Group Head, Customer Experience, UBA, Michelle Nwoga, at the Bank's quarterly wellness initiative, "Jogging to Bond", held United Bank for Africa (UBA) staff members clean up their environment and community during the Bank's quarterly wellness initiative, "Jogging to Bond"... recently recently, which also marked the GMD's 60th birthday

F

or many organisations, employee wellness programmes are centred on exercise and team bonding. At United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, however, wellness has evolved into something much broader, one that combines healthy living with environmental responsibility and community impact across the African continent.

That commitment was on full display as thousands of UBA employees simultaneously took to the streets in 20 African countries, not just to exercise, but to clean public spaces in a coordinated environmental campaign that underscored the Bank's growing Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) agenda.

From Lagos to Accra, Nairobi, Dakar and several other cities where UBA operates, employees traded office desks for brooms, waste bags and cleaning tools, demonstrating that corporate citizenship extends beyond the workplace.

The clean-up exercise formed the centrepiece of the latest edition of the Bank's flagship employee wellness initiative, "Jogging to Bond," a quarterly programme designed to promote fitness, teamwork, creativity, volunteerism and community service.

Held under the theme "The Power Within U," this year's edition carried added significance as it coincided with the 60th birthday of UBA's Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Oliver Alawuba.

Rather than celebrate privately, Alawuba chose to mark the milestone alongside employees across the Group, reinforcing the programme's emphasis on unity, shared purpose and service.

Wellness Beyond Physical Fitness While jogging, fitness sessions and recreational activities remained part

of the day's programme, the environmental clean-up reflected a broader philosophy that employee wellbeing and community wellbeing are closely connected.

The exercise demonstrated the Bank's belief that corporate success should go hand in hand with creating positive social and environmental impact. By integrating volunteerism into staff engagement, UBA continues to strengthen its sustainability agenda while making tangible contributions to the communities in which it operates.

Across its African network, employees participated in activities aimed at improving their surroundings while reinforcing environmental consciousness within local communities.

A Celebration Built Around People Addressing employees during the event, Alawuba said there was nowhere he would rather celebrate his birthday than among the people who have helped build the institution across Africa.

"There is no place I would rather be on my birthday than here, surrounded by the incredible people who make UBA what it is today. Our greatest strength lies in our people, in the passion, energy, and sense of purpose that unite us across Africa.

"When we run together, serve together, and work together to make our communities cleaner and healthier, we are doing more than promoting fitness. We are demonstrating our shared values and our commitment to the people and communities that place their trust in us every day," Alawuba said.

His remarks reflected a leadership philosophy that places employees

at the centre of the Bank's long-term vision while encouraging them to become ambassadors of positive change within their communities.

Building a Culture of Wellbeing Beyond the environmental activities, the Lagos event featured a range of wellness experiences designed to promote healthy living among employees.

Participants took part in spinning bike sessions, fitness challenges, relaxation therapies provided by Oriki and exercise sessions organised by iFitness, which also extended exclusive discounts to UBA employees.

The combination of fitness, recreation and community service reflected the Bank's holistic approach to employee engagement, recognising that physical health, mental wellbeing and social responsibility are interconnected.

Embedding Sustainability into Corporate Culture For UBA, initiatives such as "Jogging to Bond" are increasingly becoming vehicles for advancing its broader ESG objectives.

Rather than treating sustainability as a standalone corporate obligation, the Bank continues to embed environmental responsibility into everyday employee experiences, encouraging staff to contribute directly to cleaner, healthier communities.

According to UBA's Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo, the initiative reflects the institution's commitment to both its workforce and the wider society.

"At UBA, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We believe that creating a thriving workforce requires investing in their wellbeing while also encouraging them to make a positive difference in society.

"'Jogging to Bond' embodies our commitment to fostering a healthy workplace culture, strengthening team spirit, and contributing meaningfully to environmental sustainability. It is one of the many ways we continue to create value for our employees, customers, shareholders, and communities across Africa."

Her comments reinforce the Bank's view that employee engagement should deliver benefits that extend beyond organisational productivity to create lasting value for society.

Creating Lasting Impact Across Africa As one of Africa's leading financial institutions, UBA continues to expand programmes that promote wellness, volunteerism, engagement and environmental responsibility across its operations.

The latest edition of "Jogging to Bond" demonstrated how a corporate wellness initiative can become a platform for environmental action on a continental scale, bringing together thousands of employees around a common purpose while strengthening the Bank's relationship with the communities it serves.

Operating in 20 African countries, as well as the United Kingdom, the United States, France and the United Arab Emirates, UBA serves millions of customers through its retail, commercial and institutional banking businesses.

Alongside its financial services, the Bank continues to position sustainability and responsible corporate citizenship as central pillars of its long-term growth strategy.

For one day, at least, the focus shifted from banking halls to neighbourhood streets, where employees across Africa demonstrated that protecting the environment can be just as important as building financial prosperity.

19

T H I S D AY • Thursday, July 2, 2026

BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S MONEY MARKET

A S

REPO

A T

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

08056356325

J u L y

S & P INDEX

1 , 2 0 2 6

S & P INDEX

EXCHANGE RATE

OPR

25.34%

CALL

23.25%

INDEX LEVEL

595.26

1/4 to daTE

0.24%

N1,383.00 / 1 US DOLLAR*

OVERNIGHT

25.18%

1-MONTH

21.37%

1-DAY

0.10%

YEAR TO DATE

-10.99%

*AS AT Wed., JuLY 1, 2026

3-MONTH

22.41%

MONTH-TO-DATE

0.24%

NCC, ATCON Rally Stakeholders to Drive Mass FTTH Adoption, RoW Reforms

Stories by Emma Okonji In order to drive Nigeria’s national backbone expansion plan through the deployment of fibre-optic cable that will boost broadband penetration and improve network resilience, industry stakeholders have been urged to embrace mass Fibre-To-TheHome (FTTH) adoption across the country.

To achieve this, governments across board have also been advised to support FTTH

deployment through Right of Way (RoW) reforms, simpler approval processes and better protection of infrastructure, while operators and infrastructure providers must deepen investment, uphold standards, share infrastructure where efficient and expand beyond already-served areas.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Association of Telecoms Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), gave the advice in Lagos, during

ATCON forum on FTTH, with the theme: ‘Addressing Challenges, Strengthening Standards and Ensuring Sustainable FTTH Deployment in Nigeria’.

In his keynote presentation, the Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, said the path to mass FTTH adoption would not be delivered by the regulator alone, by operators alone or by government alone, but by collective participation.

“Fibre infrastructure

is now foundational to Nigeria’s digital economy, inclusive growth and global competitiveness. Addressing deployment challenges, strengthening standards and ensuring sustainable rollout must therefore be treated as a national development priority.

If internet connectivity now underpins how Nigerians learn, work, trade, heal, govern and prosper, then we cannot afford to treat fibre deployment as anything less than a national imperative,”

Maida said.

According to him, the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy’s Project BRIDGE represents one of Nigeria’s most ambitious digital infrastructure programmes.

By extending the national fibre backbone through the deployment of approximately 90,000 kilometres of additional fibre-optic cable, the project is expected to expand broadband

availability, improve network resilience and extend highcapacity connectivity to all 774 Local Government Areas.

Maida stressed the need for Nigerians to protect telecoms infrastructure and national asset, adding that between January and December 2025, the industry recorded over 27,685 fibre cut incidents, over 27,000 access denials and 4,210 theft cases across operators.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Report Highlights Emerging Reputation Risks, Opportunities for Nigerian Brands in AI Era As Artificial Intelligence (AI) increasingly shapes how people search for information, evaluate brands and make decisions, new global research from Burson, a global communications leader built to create value for clients through Reputation, has revealed that visibility in AI-generated responses does not automatically translate into credibility.

The report, tagged: ‘The Credibility Paradox’, found

significant differences in how audiences perceive and trust information generated by artificial intelligence platforms, underscoring the growing importance of reputation management in the AI era.

According to the report, the findings are particularly relevant for Nigeria, where digital behaviour is expanding quickly across individuals, businesses, institutions and public figures.

“As at the end of 2025, Nigeria had 109 million internet users representing 45.5% internet penetration, alongside 47.8 million social media user identities. With a median age of 18.1 and a majority-urban population, the market is increasingly shaped by fast-moving, mobile-first information discovery and evaluation.

“For Nigerian companies, this means corporate reputation can increasingly

be shaped by what AI tools say about a brand. As more consumers, investors, regulators and professionals turn to AI-powered platforms for information, the quality, credibility and consistency of a brand’s digital footprint have become critical business assets,” it said.

Based on more than 55,000 believability scores across 85 companies and seven major AI answer platforms, the research examined how

AI-generated responses influence perceptions across the eight levers of Burson’s Reputation Capital Framework -Innovation, Creativity, Workplace, Products, Financial Performance, Governance, Citizenship and Leadership.

Commenting on the findings, Lead Partner, CMC Connect, the affiliate partner of Burson in Nigeria, Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, said: “The rise of AI-powered

search and information platforms is reshaping how reputations are built, managed and protected. For Nigerian organisations, the implication is clear: it is no longer enough to be visible online. Brands must ensure that the information available about them is credible, independently validated and capable of earning trust across multiple audiences.”

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

M a r k e t d ata A s at W e d n e s d ay, J u LY 1 , 2 0 2 6 BONDS Description Price Yield Change Updated Time (%) ^13.98 23July 95.92 16.70 -0.10 1, 2026 FEB-2028 July ^21.00 20106.76 16.52 0.43 1, 2026 MAR-2028 ^19.30 17July 105.50 16.81 0.15 APR-2029 1, 2026 ^14.55 26July 96.25 16.19 0.00 APR-2029 1, 2026 ^18.50 21July 103.94 17.22 0.35 1, FEB-2031 2026

BILLS Maturity NTB 4-Jun26 NTB 9-Jul26 NTB 6-Aug26 NTB 3-Sep26 NTB 8-Oct26

Discount Yield

CPs

Change (%) Updated Time

Maturity

15.72

15.82

July -0.01 1, 2026

15.68

16.02

July -0.01 1, 2026

15.74

16.29

July -0.01 1, 2026

16.02

16.80

July -0.01 1, 2026

17.28

July -0.01 1, 2026

SKMP CP L 12-JUN-26 DANS CP XVI 14-JUL-26 HAAI CP X 7-SEP-26 PCLL CP V 25-SEP-26 AGRO CP IV 7-DEC-26

16.20

Discount Yield 22.57

22.89

19.73

20.34

21.27

22.73

21.03

22.70

20.37

22.94

CLEARED NAIRA-SETTLED NDFS Change (%)

Updated Time

July -0.01 1, 2026 July 0.00 1, 2026 July 0.00 1, 2026 July -0.01 1, 2026 July 0.00 1, 2026

Contract Tenor Contract (Month)

Current Rate ($/₦)

Updated Time

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

20

Thursday, July 2, 2026 • T H I S D AY

BUSINESSWORLD

eBusiness

Alert’s Goldbucks: Catalysing Nigeria’s Economic Transformation Tosin Clegg posits that Alert Group’s Goldbucks, a digital savings platform powered by Alert Microfinance Bank, reaffirms its commitment to expanding financial inclusion, making wealth creation more accessible to Nigerians through technology

Group Chief Executive Officerr Alert Group, Dr Kazeem Olanrewaju Middle and a cross section of Alert Executives

N

igeria’s rapidly expanding digital savings ecosystem is becoming a critical pillar of economic growth, financial inclusion and capital mobilisation. As fintech companies and digital banks continue to reshape the country’s financial landscape, millions of Nigerians are embracing technologydriven savings products that are changing how households and businesses accumulate wealth.

The emergence of mobile-based savings platforms has removed traditional barriers to financial services by enabling users to save, invest and access financial products anytime and anywhere. This transformation is particularly significant for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), women, youths and rural dwellers who have historically been underserved by conventional banking institutions.

Recent data underscore this progress.

According to the 2023 Access to Finance Survey by Enhancing Financial Innovation & Access (EFInA), formal financial inclusion in Nigeria increased from 56 per cent in 2020 to 64 per cent in 2023, while financial exclusion declined to 26 per cent. The growth has been driven largely by digital financial services, agent banking and fintech innovation.

Beyond promoting a savings culture, digital savings platforms are mobilising idle funds into the formal financial system. These deposits strengthen liquidity within banks and financial institutions, creating additional capacity to finance businesses, infrastructure and productive sectors of the economy. In 2025, retail deposits across Nigerian banks rose by 24 per cent to about N39 trillion, reflecting growing confidence in digital and formal savings channels.

Equally important, digital savings platforms enhance financial resilience by encouraging disciplined saving through automated contributions, goal-based savings plans and flexible investment options. They also generate transaction histories that improve access to credit for individuals and small businesses, thereby stimulating entrepreneurship and job creation.

As the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) advances its National Financial Inclusion Strategy and digital finance agenda, digital savings platforms will remain indispensable to achieving inclusive growth. Their ability to deepen financial inclusion, mobilise domestic capital and reduce reliance on external financing makes them not merely technological innovations, but strategic instruments for Nigeria’s long-term economic transformation.

Dr Kazeem Olanrewaju and a cross section of Alert Executives.

Alert Launches Goldbucks To further deepen financial inclusion, Alert Group has introduced Goldbucks, its digital savings platform powered by Alert Microfinance Bank, reaffirming its commitment to expanding financial inclusion and making wealth creation more accessible to Nigerians through technology. The app was unveiled during a media briefing held at the Alert Group Headquarters in Lagos, where industry stakeholders, journalists and invited guests were introduced to the app’s features and investment offerings.

Designed to simplify savings for individuals and businesses, Goldbucks provides users with a secure, transparent and user-friendly platform to access investment opportunities via savings plan, monitor performance and manage their funds from anywhere.

Its technology-driven approach reflects a broader vision of transforming how people interact with financial services, delivering solutions that are both intuitive and tailored to the evolving needs of today’s digital economy.

Speaking at the unveiling, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Alert Group, Dr. Kazeem Olanrewaju, said the introduction of Goldbucks represents another milestone in the Group’s mission to leverage technology to broaden access to trusted financial solutions.

“Goldbucks was developed to remove many of the traditional barriers that have prevented millions of Nigerians

from saving and investing. Our goal is to provide a platform that is simple, secure and accessible, enabling more people to build wealth with confidence regardless of their income level or investment experience,” he said.

Guests at the event witnessed a live demonstration of the Goldbucks App, showcasing its seamless onboarding process, intuitive interface, robust security infrastructure and investment management capabilities.

Trusted Financial Services Also speaking, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Alert Microfinance Bank, Raji Saheed, said; “At Alert Microfinance Bank, we believe that access to trusted financial services should also include access to credible savings and investment opportunities.

As the institution powering Goldbucks, we have built the platform on the pillars of security, transparency and regulatory compliance, giving our customers the confidence to build wealth through a trusted financial institution.

Goldbucks is more than a saving app; it is an extension of our commitment to helping Nigerians achieve long-term financial security through innovative digital banking solutions.”

The interactive session also gave members of the media the opportunity to engage the management team on key issues including the platform’s investment products, customer

protection measures, technology architecture, expected returns, growth strategy and its role in expanding digital investment adoption across Nigeria.

According to the Chief Marketing Officer of Alert Group, Kayode Abraham, “The introduction of Goldbucks reflects our focus on delivering customer-centric financial solutions that meet the evolving needs of Nigerians. At Alert Group, we understand that today’s customers want financial solutions that are simple, reliable and accessible. Goldbucks has been designed with the customer at the centre of every experience. Beyond launching a digital platform, we are creating opportunities for more Nigerians to cultivate a culture ofsaving while enjoying the best interest in the market, build long-term wealth and take greater control of their financial future.”

Reinforcing the platform’s commitment to security, reliability, and user confidence, the company’s Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Alabi Damilare highlighted the robust technology powering the application.

Designed with advanced security features and a seamless user experience, the app offers a safe and efficient environment for users to carry out transactions with ease.

As Nigeria’s digital financial services ecosystem continues to evolve, Goldbucks is positioned to become a trusted savings and investment platform for individuals, professionals, entrepreneurs and businesses seeking secure and convenient ways to grow their wealth. Available for download on both the App Store and Google Play.

21

Thursday, July 2, 2026 • T H I S D AY

BUSINESSWORLD

News

L-R: Head of Treasury and Finance Unit, Olamide Sipe; Head of Admin Services, Destiny Ilabija; Group Executive Director, Commercials, Bimpe Olaleye; Group Executive Director, Corporate Services and Human Resources, Folashade Efiong-Bassey; Head of Product Management and Governance, Peter Uwadone; Head, Marketing & Corporate Communications, Mobolaji Caxton-Martins and Head of Transmission/Core Network, Mac-Donald Utaka, all of ipNX, at its long service awards in Lagos… recently

Oduwole: Nigeria Ready to Champion Digital Trade to Unlock $712bn Market

Oluchi Chibuzor

The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, has said that the country will continue to champion digital trade on the continent to unlock the potential of the industry worth over $712 billion.

This is as the SecretaryGeneral, AfCFTA Secretariat, has called on the continent to work towards reducing the high cost of data in Africa.

Speaking at the second edition of the AfCFTA digital trade forum, held in Lagos yesterday, Oduwole, said that digital trade is opening

new pathways for African businesses to grow, export and compete.

The event themed, ‘Digital Trade for a Connected African Market’, according to the Minister, reflects Nigeria’s shared commitment to building a truly integrated African Digital Single Market.

She explained that Nigeria chose to lead on digital trade, explaining that AfCFTA has created a market of more than 1.4 billion people with a combined GDP of over US$3 trillion.

Oduwole acknowledged that digital trade presents a huge opportunity to rapidly

leverage this agreement, stressing it enables businesses to reach new customers, expand beyond national borders and compete in traditional and new sectors.

She pointed out that Africa already has the talent, but

warned that the continent’s task now is to create the conditions for that talent to serve a continental market.

According to her, “This is why Nigeria chose to become a Co-Champion of the AfCFTA Protocol on

Digital Trade. We believe this is one of the most significant opportunities to accelerate Africa’s economic integration and transformation.”

On his part, the SecretaryGeneral, AfCFTA Secretariat, Wamkele Mene, said that

digital trade is not a distant dream in Africa.

He affirmed that it is happening right now, noting it is rewriting what is possible for Africans and presenting significant opportunities and benefits for our people.

Firms to Scale Digital Banking Services across Africa

Stories by Emma Okonji

Interswitch Group, one of Africa’s leading integrated payments and digital commerce companies, and Temenos, a global leader in banking technology, have signed a partnership deal, wherein Interswitch will adopt Temenos

technology to enhance its digital banking capabilities, supporting its growth and expanding access to modern financial services across the continent.

Speaking about the partnership, Managing Director for Digital Infrastructure & Managed Services (Systegra) at

Interswitch, Jonah Adams, said: “By adopting Temenos’ cloud-native, composable platform, Interswitch gains the flexibility and scalability to accelerate its next phase of growth and deliver banking services that meet the needs of African markets. This is a pivotal moment for

Interswitch as we accelerate our expansion beyond payments and reimagine digital banking for Africa.

Our partnership with Temenos is strategic in that it allows us to introduce a highly configurable banking platform that leverages the latest cloud technologies into our technology stack.

Stabyl, a fintech company emerging from stealth with a $2.7 million pre-seed investment led by Konga, is building institutionalgrade foreign exchange infrastructure that enables banks, payment service providers, and financial institutions to access liquidity more efficiently

while significantly reducing settlement times.

Speaking about Stabyl, its Co-founder, Zachary Schwartzman, said: “Our goal is to connect participants on one platform, creating the deepest and most accessible liquidity pool on the continent.”

According to him, Stabyl

is neither a consumer-facing app nor a cross-border payments platform. The problem it aims to solve lies at the point where financial institutions source foreign exchange before a payment can be made.

Another Co-founder at Stabyl, Prince Nnamdi Ekeh, illustrated this with

the example of a large institution like Konga.

He explained that when the e-commerce company needs foreign exchange, its treasury team typically reaches out to multiple banks, payment service providers, and liquidity providers to compare rates and source liquidity.

Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) Limited, has commissioned three new production lines: two at its Asejire plant in Oyo State and one at its Challawa plant in Kano State. The new lines were formally commissioned

at a ceremony attended by Senator John Owan Enoh, Honourable Minister of State for Industry, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment. They signal the Coca-Cola System’s commitment to its $1

billion five-year investment programme in Nigeria.

At the Asejire plant in Oyo State, NBC has commissioned two new production lines, world-class and globally benchmarked, equipped with the most advanced bottling technology available today.

At the Challawa plant in Kano State, a new line of equivalent global standard has been commissioned, further strengthening a facility that has anchored NBC’s operations in Kano since 1982. Together, the three new lines deepen NBC’s presence in communities the company has served for decades, reinforcing a manufacturing footprint that extends across the country.

Speaking at the ceremony,

Goran Sladic, Managing Director of NBC, framed the investments as a statement of long-term conviction.

“NBC has been part of Nigeria’s growth story for 75 years. Since 1951, we have invested in people, infrastructure, manufacturing capability, and communities across the country. We are, proudly, a Nigerian company. The three new production lines we are commissioning today at Asejire and Challawa are proof of what is achievable when that commitment is matched by an enabling policy environment, and a signal that we intend to be part of this country’s story for the next 75 years and beyond.”

Insurance Sector’s Total Gross Premium Hit N2.3tn Coy to Build Africa’s Foreign Exchange Infrastructure Ebere Nwoji

The insurance sector in the year 2025 achieved a gross premium income of N2.3trillion.

The outgoing Chairman of Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA), Mr Kunle Ahmed disclosed this at the 55th Annual General Meeting of the association held in Lagos.

Addressing to him: “In 2025,the industry achieved a historic milestone : Gross premium income crossed the N2.3 trillion, a year -on year surge that reflects our expanding capacity and market reach. This growth trajectory was well balanced

across the industry ‘s primary segments, with the general business accounting for N1.57 trillion of the total volume.”

He attributed the success largely to the strategic retention of high- value risks within the oil and gas sector, alongside the rigorous enforcement of compulsory insurance policies.

He said this was complemented by the life insurance business which contributed N727.4 billion to the total GPI, a result driven by a heightened public awareness of long term financial planning and the sustained success of retiree annuity products.

NBC Commissions Three New Production Lines

NCS to Address Digital Inclusivity at Intl’ Conference The Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), the umbrella body for all Information Technology (IT) practitioners in Nigeria, will be addressing national concerns on digital inclusivity at its forthcoming international conference scheduled to hold in Jos, Plateau State in July.

Speaking at a press conference in Lagos, NCS President, Prof.

Muhammad Sirajo Aliyu, said the conference theme: ‘Harnessing Digital Innovation and Emerging Technologies for Inclusive Growth and Economic Renaissance (RISE 2026)’ would address national

concerns on digital inclusivity.

As an advocacy group, NCS will ensure that discussions at the conference will address the growing concerns on digital inclusivity, and ensure that all Nigerians, irrespective of their locations, have access to connectivity, Aliyu said.

According to him, for over four decades, the Nigeria Computer Society has remained at the forefront of promoting excellence in Information Technology practice, policy advocacy, digital capacity development, and national technological advancement.

22

T H I S D AY • Thursday, July 2, 2026

BUSINESSWORLD

INTERVIEW

Auma: 88% of Nigerians Shop with AI Senior Director, Risk at Visa sub-Saharan Africa, Irene Auma, speaks with Emma Okonji about the findings of the Visa Stay Secure Survey, unpacking what Nigeria’s AI shopping boom means for payment security, why consumer trust in digital payments remains high despite rising fraud exposure, and how Visa is building the infrastructure to keep Nigerian consumers safe in an increasingly agentic digital economy. Excerpts:

Can you tell us about the Visa Stay Secure campaign and survey as it relates to Nigeria? isa’s Stay Secure campaign is about empowering Nigerian consumers with the knowledge and tools to transact confidently.

The survey findings of the Visa Stay Secure Survey as it relates to Nigeria, shows that Nigerian consumers are among the most digitally active in Africa. Nearly 88 per cent use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to shop. That adoption demands equally strong security infrastructure.

Trust in digital payments remains high in Nigeria, with over 96 per cent of respondents trusting digital payments, even as fraud exposure rises. That trust must be earned and protected. Fraud prevention is a shared responsibility. Banks, government, payment providers, and consumers all have a role.

Visa provides the technology layer.

AI is both the opportunity and the risk.

Visa uses it to detect fraud in real time.

Bad actors use it too. The difference is scale and speed. The next frontier is agentic commerce: AI making purchases on behalf of consumers. Security architecture for that era is being built now.

common channel where it happened, cited by 57 per cent of those victims.

That is significant. What is also notable is that 78 per cent of Nigerian respondents say they discover new brands through social media, which means the shopping journey increasingly begins there. That does not mean consumers should avoid social commerce. It means they need to be more aware of what they click on and who they buy from, and it means the payment systems operating in those environments need to be as robust as anywhere else. Visa’s detection tools are designed to work across every channel, not just at traditional checkout.

V

Nearly 88% of Nigerians are using AI to shop. What does that tell you?

It tells you that Nigerian consumers are not waiting to be convinced. They have decided. AI is already part of how people discover products, compare prices, and make decisions every day. When you look at the data, 88 per cent of Nigerian respondents said they use AI specifically to find the best prices or deals, and over 72 per cent use it to compare options across brands and retailers. That is not experimentation. That is habitual behaviour. What it means for us is that the security infrastructure supporting

A um a those transactions has to keep pace with that adoption. The technology driving the shopping experience and the technology protecting it need to evolve together. Convenience cannot come at the cost of safety.

Social commerce is booming and over 82% of Nigerians have bought directly through social media. Is that a security concern?

It is a reality we take seriously.

Social platforms are built on trust

TBWA\Concept Unit to Diversify intoTech, Music Industries The newly appointed CEO of TBWA/Concept Unit, a Lagos-based creative agency within the TBWA Worldwide network, Mr. George Isitua-Onukwu, has promised to expand the operations of the creative industry by diversifying into the technology, music and food industries to further support clients in the creative industry.

Isitua-Onukwu, who begins his new role as CEO from July 1, 2026, said he would address some of the challenges in the creative industry to boost industry confidence.

According to him, during

his tenure, he will also address the issue of shrinking budgets in the creative industry and find new ways of balancing through collaboration. “We’re having collaborations with some music labels and food influencers. We’re collaborating with film producers, for instance, to produce the next movie that will be released in November this year,” he said.

In his views, clients’ perception about agencies not being innovative and not being fast in adopting new technologies and innovations is also a challenge that must be addressed during his tenure.

“Technology is taking a sizable portion of our revenue as businesses. And then more importantly, clients are asking questions about what we do and how it is linked to the return of investment. With a little prompt on a software, we can produce creative work, music, video, voiceover, by simply creating a script using Chat GPT, and combine it with Artificial Intelligence (AI) tool to produce music, and deliver a song, than spending so much money to pay a producer and a voiceover artist to come up with such composition,” Isitua-Onukwu said.

Firm Remodels Access to Tertiary Learning with App

ProjKonnect, Nigeria’s leading edutech firm, has formally announced the launch of the Gemnex App, which is an AI-driven platform designed to provide equitable access to tailored academic learning for tertiary students across Nigeria.

The recent AI-driven advancement, which features seamless integration with WhatsApp, underscores

the organisation’s enduring dedication to facilitating streamlined access to high-quality educational resources.

Commenting on the significance of the Gemnex App launch, Founder, ProjKonnect, Paul Ojo, stated that the digital platform remained an innovative response to the educational gaps that have long constrained the academic potential of

Nigerian students.

“The fundamental rationale behind the creation of the Gemnex App is to democratise access to educational resources for the future leaders of the nation. To me, the question has never been whether Nigerian students were intellectually capable of navigating their tertiary education, irrespective of the challenges they encounter,” he said.

and familiarity, and that is precisely what makes them attractive to fraudsters. Among Nigerians who experienced a scam in the past year, social media was the most

Over half of Nigerian respondents reported being victims of a financial scam in the last 12 months. How do you make sense of that alongside the high trust in digital payments?

People are distinguishing between a bad experience and a broken system. They know that fraud happens, but they also know that the vast majority of transactions go through without incident, and that there are mechanisms for recourse when things go wrong. Over 96 per cent of Nigerians surveyed said they trust digital payments to some degree, and nearly 74 per cent said they mostly or completely trust them. That trust is not naive. It is based The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

24

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2026juLY • T H2, I S2026 D AY T H I S D AY • THURSday,

business/MOnEYGUIDE

MeCure Closes H1 with Stable BBB GCR Outlook, Halal Certification Kayode Tokede MeCure Industries Plc closed the first half of 2026 on a strong note, marked by the affirmation of its national scale issuer ratings by GCR Ratings, the award of Halal certification, and the launch of two new products.

GCR Ratings affirmed MeCure Industries Plc’s long-term issuer rating at BBB(NG) and short-term issuer rating at A3(NG), with the company’s long-term outlook revised to Stable.

The rating agency said the decision was supported by improvements in MeCure’s competitive position, sound earnings performance, ongoing expansion, product innovation, and wider market penetration. GCR also noted the company’s diversified portfolio of more than 140 formulations across five therapeutic classes,

its extensive distribution network, and its relationships with suppliers and technical partners.

During the period, MeCure also received Halal certification, reinforcing the company’s commitment to quality, compliance, and broader consumer accessibility.

For the everyday consumer, Halal certification means that the certified products have been reviewed to ensure that their ingredients, sourcing, handling, and production processes comply with recognised Halal requirements. In practical terms, it gives Muslim consumers greater confidence that the medicines they use are permissible, while also providing an additional layer of assurance around transparency, product integrity, and manufacturing discipline.

The certification is expected

to support trust among customers, healthcare professionals, distributors, and institutional partners, while strengthening MeCure’s positioning in markets where Halal-compliant products are an important consideration.

In June 2026, MeCure further expanded its product portfolio with the introduction of Fluconazole Capsules and EBU Suspension.

Fluconazole Capsules add to the company’s antifungal offering, while EBU Suspension, an ibuprofen oral suspension, strengthens MeCure’s paediatric and family care range.

As MeCure enters the second half of 2026, the company said it remains focused on deepening local manufacturing, improving access to quality medicines, expanding its product pipeline, and delivering sustainable value to shareholders.

ACI Tasks Audit Professionals on Competence to Boost Investors Confidence Esther Oluku

The Audit Committee Institute of Nigeria (ACIN) has called on accounting and audit professionals to strengthen individual competence as they carries out their core function so as to boost investors’ confidence in Nigeria’s financial market.

This is even as the institute called for stronger professionals oversight and data governance as professional adopt artificial intelligence tools to safeguard shareholder trust.

These were submissions made at the 2026 Audit Committee Conference

which held in Lagos yesterday, themed; “Guardian of Truth: Informed.

Vigilant.

Attending.”

In his keynote address titled, ‘The Guardians of Financial Truth in the Age of AI: The Challenge of Meeting Society’s Expectations’, Chairman, Audit Committee Institute, Christian Ekeigwe, stated that as artificial intelligence continues to enhance speed in data analysis, AI hallucination opens error margins which professionals must deploy independent competence to address.

“AI does extraordinarily well, and the profession

that fails to deploy them is failing its clients and the public alike. But these tools introduce a risk that is subtler, and in some respects more dangerous, than the risk of inadequate technology adoption,” he said.

In his remarks, Partner, and Head of Audit, KPMG West Africa, Goodluck Obi, explained that because audit statements play a key role in how firms are perceived by the public, auditor and accountants must ensure strong oversight and control, insist on statutory compliance with regulatory authorities and avoid intentional or unintentional misstatements.

Nigeria, Liberia to Strengthen EconomicTies at Investment Forum The Government of the Republic of Liberia, through the Embassy of Liberia in Nigeria and the Office of the Honorary Consul General of Liberia in Lagos, will host its inaugural Liberia–Nigeria Trade and Investment Forum in Lagos Theme, “Building Bridges for Shared Prosperity: Strengthening Liberia–Nigeria Trade and Investment Partnership,” the Forum is designed to strengthen bilateral economic relations by bringing together government officials, investors, development partners and private sector leaders to explore new opportunities for trade, investment and strategic collaboration.

The Forum comes at a pivotal moment as African

nations continue to strengthen intra-African trade and investment under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The initiative underscores the shared commitment of Liberia and Nigeria to advancing economic cooperation by leveraging their complementary strengths.

While Nigeria possesses significant strength in capital mobilisation, entrepreneurship, industrial capacity and innovation, Liberia continues to implement reforms and strategic investments aimed at accelerating economic growth, improving infrastructure and expanding opportunities across key sectors.

According to the Honorary Consul of Liberia to Nigeria, Dapo Akinosun, SAN, “The Liberia–Nigeria Trade

and Investment Forum represents more than a bilateral engagement; it is a strategic platform for building lasting partnerships that will unlock investment, facilitate knowledge exchange and accelerate economic transformation for both nations. By bringing together governments and the private sector, we are creating opportunities that will deliver tangible economic value and shared prosperity.”

As Africa increasingly looks inward to drive sustainable economic development, the Liberia–Nigeria Trade and Investment Forum is expected to serve as a model for strengthening regional trade, encouraging cross-border investments and advancing the continent’s shared economic aspirations.

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

Month

Money Supply (M3)

119,037,577.07

-- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors

9,291.49

Money Supply (M2)

119,028,285.58

Quasi Money

79,681,419.97

-- Narrow Money (M1)

39,346,865.60

---- Currency Outside Banks

4,646,794.28

---- Demand Deposits

34,700,071.33

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

34,804,442.84

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

84,233,134.23

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

99,199,655.08

---- Credit to Government (Net)

24,787,980.96

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

0.00

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

0.00

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

74,411,674.12

--Other Assets Net

2,603,854.03

Reserve Money (Base Money)

36,641,142.21

--Currency in Circulation

5,057,881.01

--Banks Reserves

31,583,261.21

--Special Intervention Reserves

284,361.95 • Source - CBN

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month

October 2025

Inter-Bank Call Rate

October 2025

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

27.00

Treasury Bill Rate

15.07

Savings Deposit Rate

7.43

1 Month Deposit Rate

11.37

3 Months Deposit Rate

11.32

6 Months Deposit Rate

11.12

12 Months Deposit Rate

11.78

Prime Lending rate

18.89

Maximum Lending Rate

29.56

NSE MARKET INDEX CAP

0.75%(52%YoY)

Index

0.9% (29%Y/D) • Monetary Policy Rate - 27%

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE As At 24TH NOVEMBER , 2025

The price of OPEC basket of twelve crudes stood at $63.14 a barrel on Monday, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations.

The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

25

T H I S D AY • THURSday, juLY 2, 2026

mARKET NEWS

Stock Market Begins July on Negative Note, Decline by N2.39tn

Kayode Tokede

The Nigerian stock market resumed its negative note for the month of July 2026, dropping by N2.39 trillion as sustained selling pressure weighed on investor sentiment.

The Nigerian Exchange Limited All-Share Index (NGX ASI) lost 3,729.11basis points or 1.63 per cent to close at 225,690.07 basis points with

Month-to-Date and Year-toDate returns settled lower at -1.6per cent and +45per cent, respectively.

Also, market capitalisation shed by N2.39 trillion to close at N144.825 trillion.

Sectoral performance was negative as the Oil & Gas (-4.4 per cent), Industrial Goods (-3.7per cent), Banking (-1.5per cent) and Consumer Goods (-0.9per cent) indices declined, while the Insurance (+0.4per

P R I C E S MaiN Board

DEALS

F O R

cent) index advanced.

The decline was driven by price depreciation in large and medium capitalised stocks amongst which are; Aradel Holdings, Dangote Cement, NASCON Allied Industries, Zenith Bank and Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO).

Market breadth remained negative, with 28 gainers against 33 decliners. Austin Laz & Company emerged the highest price gainer of

S E C U R I T I E S

Market Price

quantity traded

value traded ( N )

10 per cent to close at N3.30, per share. Guinea Insurance followed with a gain of 9.89 per cent to close at N1.00, while Abbey Mortgage Bank advanced by 9.66 per cent to close at N7.95, per share.

Daar Communications appreciated by 9.60 per cent to close at N1.37, while Regency Alliance Insurance rose by 9.52 per cent to close at 92 kobo.

On the other side, McNichols, Neimeth

International Pharmaceuticals and Aradel Holdings led others on the losers’ chart with 10 per cent each to close at N7.65, N8.10 and N1,275.80 respectively, per share.

NACON Allied Industries followed with a decline of 9.98 per cent to close at N197.60, while International Breweries shed 9.52 per cent to close at N9.50, per share.

Meanwhile, the total volume traded declined by 54.7 per

T R A D E D

O F

MaiN Board

AS

J U LY DEALS

cent to 437.60 million units, valued at NGN12.73 billion, and exchanged in 45,068 deals. Transactions in the shares of Sterling Financial Holdings Company led the activity with 124.618 million shares worth N980.635 million.

UPDC followed with account of 40.091 million shares valued at N130.365 million, while Access Holdings traded 36.844 million shares valued at N811.552 million.

1 / 2 6 Market Price

quantity traded

value traded ( N)

26

THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026 • THISDAY

NEWS

FLAG-OFF OF THE ADOPT-A-SCHOOL PBAT FEEDS PROGRAMME...

L-R: Chairman, Ibeju Lekki Local Government, Engr. Sesan Olowa; SSG representing the Governor of Lagos State, Barr. ‘Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin; National Coordinator, National Social Investment Programmes Agency (NSIPA), Associate Prof. Badamasi Lawal Charanchi; National Programme Manager, Renewed Hope National Home Grown School Feeding Programme, Dr Aderemi Adebowale; Commissioner for Agriculture and Food System, Ms Abisola Olusanya and her counterpart for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr Jamiu Alli-Balogun during the flagoff of the Adopt-A-School PBAT Feeds Programme ‘Snacks for Thought’, at the Lagos Island East LCDA Zappa Building in Lagos, on Tuesday

Obasanjo: Causes of Nigeria’s Civil War Still with Us, Denies Role in Asaba Massacre

James Sowole in Abeokuta

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, yesterday, re-echoed some issues on Nigeria’s civil war, saying things led to the war still lingered among the citizens and institutions in the country.

Obasanjo said despite purported justifications in some quarter, Nigeria must not witness another civil war.

Obasanjo issued the warning at the presentation of a historical document on Nigeria’s Civil War, titled, “Asaba Massacre,” by the Isama Aje of Asaba, Chief Chuck Nduka-Eze, to him at the Olusegun Obasanjo Library (OOPL), Abeokuta.

The document, also in audio-visual form, according to the author, was grounded in a substantial and carefully cross-referenced body of evidence, including eyewitness testimonies, recorded interviews, archival materials, audio-visual documentation, and established historical scholarship.

Obasanjo said, though, he was involved in the civil war, he had confessed to people that he could not give account of the “Asaba Massacre” because Murtala Muhammed was in charge of the area.

The former president commended Nduka-Eze for the work, and said there were questions people had asked him about Murtala’s role in the civil war and Asaba operations, which he could not comment on.

He promised to go through the compilation of the transcript and the

audio-visual materials.

Obasanjo stated, “We pride ourselves that we preserve the past, we capture the present, and we inspire the future. We capture the past, and this is the past; we want to capture it, we want to know about it.

“I must confess and you know that I was involved in the civil war. When people talk about Asaba massacre, I always confess that I cannot give details of it.”

Obasanjo, who narrated how he prevented some bad things from happening during the civil war, mentioned how he prevented a soldier from raping a woman in Asaba, which would have led to him having vicarious liabilities.

He stated, “Some of the things that led to the civil war are still on.

Now, how long will this be with us? I was with a colleague when General Yakubu Gowon said, ‘We will not survive a second civil war as a country’, and which, I believe, that we have fought one civil war too many already.

“So, to say that we will have a second civil war, God forbid. And getting ourselves to know some of what happened, and to say yes, we condemn what happened that should not have happened, and then make sure that we do everything humanly possible to prevent its recurrence.

“And then, for us to be able to say, ‘never again’. What are we going to have for us to be able to say, ‘never again’?

“Thank you very much for making people to know about it, for people to learn about it, and for people to take a vow that never again. And I say to you, never. I will do everything possible to say never.”

Giving insight into the work, Asaba Massacre, Nduka-Eze described it as a substantial and carefully cross-referenced body of evidence, including eyewitness testimonies, recorded interviews, archival materials, audio visual documentation, and established historical scholarship.

He said across independent sources, a clear and consistent account

emerged of events following the entry of federal troops into Asaba, then a civilian population centre in the Mid-West region.

He stated, “The evidence establishes a recurring pattern.

Civilians were assembled in public places under conditions of fear and uncertainty. During these assemblies, residents were required to proclaim allegiance to the Nigerian state, including being instructed to declare ‘One Nigeria’ and otherwise demonstrate loyalty.

“In a setting where identity and suspicion had become dangerously intertwined, these acts were under-

Alex Enumah and Linus Aleke in Abuja Department of State Services (DSS) has handed former Minister of Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, to Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) after arresting him at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu.

Nnaji was apprehended by DSS operatives yesterday morning as

he was about to board an Abuja bound private jet.

Security sources disclosed that the former minister, who resigned from office last October under controversial circumstances, was arrested by DSS at the request of ICPC before being transferred to the anti-graft agency for investigation.

According to sources, ICPC had issued several invitations to Nnaji following petitions concerning his management of the Ministry of

Nine political parties have collected access codes, INEC discloses

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has confirmed that the names of its presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, and his running mate, Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi, have been uploaded to the portal of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The ADC National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, in a statement on X, described it as another step towards the 2027 general elections.

Abdullahi wrote, “We are

pleased to announce that we have successfully uploaded the names and particulars of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar (GCON), and our Vice Presidential Candidate, Rotimi Amaechi (CON), to the nomination portal of the @ INECNigeria.

“This marks another important step in our preparations for the 2027 general election and our commitment to offer Nigerians a credible alternative built on competence, unity, and national renewal.”

Meanwhile, INEC has disclosed

allegiance to.

“This sequence is corroborated by testimonies, documentary materials, and scholarly works, and remains materially unchallenged.

“While precise casualty figures cannot be definitively fixed, the convergence of credible evidence points to a substantial loss of civilian life (over a thousand men) and a profound rupture in the fabric of the Asaba community.”

Like Obasanjo, Nduka-Eze said those issues that led to the civil war were still with the country, as ethnic groups continued to relate with one another with suspicion.

DSS Arrests Ex-Science Minister, Nnaji, Hands Him over to ICPC, Agency Confirms

ADC Uploads Atiku, Amaechi Names On INEC’s Portal Chuks Okocha in Abuja

stood by those present as affirmations of belonging and safety.

“Men were then separated from women and children. Thereafter, unarmed male civilians were killed in a manner consistently described across multiple independent accounts.

“Compliance with these demands did not secure protection. The sequence, repeated across testimonies, reflects a tragic contradiction in which individuals who openly affirmed their identity and loyalty as Nigerians were, nonetheless, killed in the most undignified manner by the same Nigerian state that they pledge their

that nine political parties have so far collected access codes to upload their candidates’ particulars ahead of the 2027 general election.

This was made known by INEC National Commissioner in charge of Voter Education and Publicity, Malam Haruna, on Tuesday in Abuja.

“As of close of work on Monday, nine politicians have collected the access code for the national elections,” Haruna said.

He listed the political parties as Accord, Action Alliance (AA), African Democratic Congress (ADC), All Progressives Congress (APC), Labour

Party (LP), National Democratic Congress (NDC), National Democratic Party (NDP), Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), and Social Democratic Party (SDP).

The INEC senior official said rather than the commission taking the codes to individual party secretariats, the political parties ought to approach the commission for collection.

He also declared that there must be an authorisation letter from the leadership of any political party, who wanted the codes to be collected on their behalf.

Science and Technology.

However, after allegedly failing to honour the invitations, the commission sought the assistance of DSS to effect his arrest.

“The ICPC had extended several invitations to the former minister following petitions on how he managed his ministry and, therefore, contacted the DSS to assist in arresting him,” one of the sources said.

The sources added that following his arrest at the Enugu airport, Nnaji was immediately handed over to ICPC, which was expected to continue its investigation into the allegations contained in the petitions.

ICPC confirmed Nnaji’s arrest.

Head, Media and Public Communications, ICPC, Mr John Odey, who confirmed the arrest in a statement, disclosed that the former minister was arrested through the assistance of DSS. Odey stated, “The arrest was effected on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, upon Mr. Nnaji’s arrival. He was apprehended with the assistance of the Department of State Services (DSS) and subsequently handed over to the ICPC for further investigation.”

The statement disclosed that the commission had earlier extended

formal invitations to the former minister through a letter referenced ICPC/HC/CSTF/GUN/GBT/T.1/ VOLV16, and dated May 15, 2026.

The statement added, “The invitation notices were duly served to his known addresses in Abuja and Enugu, as well as via his electronic mail address.

Despite service through multiple channels, Mr. Nnaji failed to appear for investigative interviews on the scheduled dates, necessitating further legal action.

“The legal action followed a court order granted by the Federal High Court in the Abuja Judicial Division (Suit No: FHC/ABJ/ CS/1160/2026). The order, issued on June 11, 2026, directed the ICPC to arrest the former minister to enable investigation into allegations bordering on: “Forgery of academic credentials, specifically concerning a degree certificate from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN); and “False National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Discharge Certificate, which was submitted during his ministerial screening process in 2023.

“Following the arrest, Mr. Nnaji has been taken into custody at the ICPC headquarters in Abuja, where investigations are expected to continue.”

27

THISDAY • THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026

NEWS

SWEARING IN OF NEW EXECUTIVES OF THE ENUGU BRANCH OF THE NBA...

L-R: Welfare Officer, African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) Nigeria, Enugu State Branch, Bar. (Mrs.) Blossom Ejeagwu; State Secretary, AWLA Nigeria, Enugu State Branch, Bar. Sylvia Abana; State Coordinator, AWLA Nigeria, Enugu State Branch, Bar. Chidi Obeke; presidential aspirant of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mrs. Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN; and Treasurer, AWLA Nigeria, Enugu State Branch, Bar. Georginia Emeribe, at the official swearing in of the new executives of the Enugu Branch of the NBA in Enugu on Friday

Presidency: Adeyemi is Con Artist, He’s Built Web of False Claims to Deceive People Chronicles petitions written by Gbajabiamila to police, security agencies about his illegal activities Says he’s being tried by police, warns politicians, public not to use his narrative as weapon against Gbajabiamila

Deji Elumoye and Chuks Okocha in Abuja The Presidency, yesterday, washed its hands off a fictitious agency, the Presidential Economic Advisory Council, being run by one Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew as its DirectorGeneral, describing him as a con artist, who has built a web of false claims to deceive people.

Presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, in a statement titled, “Re: The Matter of Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew and the fictitious Presidential Economic Advisory Council”, disowned Adeyemi as well as the fictitious Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council cum Presidential Economic Advisory Council.

“The case of Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew is a clear case of a con artist who appears to have built a web of false claims to deceive unsuspecting government officials and the public into playing by his scam book.

“He has a history of fraudulent misrepresentation. In November 2016, he paraded himself as an ambassador and President-General of the World Youth Organisation (WYO), an affiliate of the United Nations (UN).

“He claimed to have been elected in New Delhi, India. The local media celebrated him until the UN denied the existence of such a body.

“Politicians and members of the public who are weaponising Adeyemi’s claim against the Chief of Staff should refrain from swallowing his narrative hook, line and sinker. They are advised to await the trial of Adeyemi and his accomplices, as well as the court’s judgement, as comments made today are sub judice.”

The presidency, however, detailed all the letters and petitions written by the Chief of Staff to the President, the police and security agencies about the illegal agency, saying Gbajabiamila first blew the whistle on the illegal agency in a letter to the Department of State Services (DSS) dated October 17, 2025.

It stated that the police after investigations, filed an eight-count charge at the Federal High Court in Abuja against Adeyemi and two of his accomplices on November 27, 2025 adding that Adeyemi who is on bail is due in court on July 27.

The Presidency therefore asked politicians and members of the public who were weaponising Adeyemi’s claim against the Chief of Staff to refrain from swallowing his narrative hook, line and sinker advising them to await the trial of Adeyemi and his accomplices, as well as the court’s judgement.

Breaking down the timeline, the presidency wrote: “We are aware of the public interest in the matter of a man called Adeyemi Adeniyi Matthew,

who has been parading himself as the director-general of a fictitious Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council cum Presidential Economic Advisory Council.

“The office of the Chief of Staff to the President first blew the whistle on the existence of the illegal agency, following complaints from officials of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Council that another government agency appeared to be functioning at cross-purposes with it.

“The Chief of Staff, on October 17, 2025, in a letter, asked the DSS and the Police to probe the activities of ‘fraudsters and imposters’ forging appointment letters purportedly from his office.

“The attention of this office has been drawn to the activities of certain individuals and groups engaged in the forgery of official appointment letters purportedly issued from my office.

“The fake documents, bearing falsified signatures, reference/folio numbers, and seals, have been used to claim leadership appointments to non-existent entities, with particular reference to the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council.

“The aforementioned entity under the leadership of one Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew as Director-General is said to have an office at the Federal Secretariat Complex Phase 111, 2nd Floor.

IN NEW PARTNERSHIP, NIGERIA SECURES $1.25BN WORLD BANK SUPPORT TO BOOST JOBS commitment yesterday in Abuja while receiving a delegation from the World Bank ahead of the Africa Water Forum scheduled to hold later this month in N’Djamena, Chad.

Utsev said the President Bola Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda placed priority on expanding access to potable water and boosting agricultural productivity through irrigation.

He stressed that closer collaboration with the World Bank would speed up the implementation of the Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) Project and other strategic interventions in the water sector.

Utsev stated that improved

irrigation infrastructure was critical to increasing all-year-round farming, strengthening food production, reducing rural poverty, and enhancing economic growth.

The minister also confirmed Nigeria’s participation in the Africa Water Forum, describing the event as an opportunity to present ongoing reforms in the country’s water sector, attract investment, and strengthen partnerships aimed at improving water security, sanitation, and irrigation development.

According to him, Nigeria will use the forum to highlight reforms designed to expand access to safe and sustainable water, particularly in underserved communities, while

showcasing investment opportunities in the sector.

Earlier, World Bank’s Task Team Leader for the SPIN Project, Zack Zieglhifer, alongside Co-Task Team Leader, Engr. Chinedu Umolu, said their visit was to coordinate Nigeria’s participation in the Africa Water Forum.

They explained that the forum, organised by West African countries, in collaboration with the World Bank and other development partners, will bring together policymakers, development partners and private sector stakeholders to explore innovative financing mechanisms and practical solutions for addressing Africa’s growing water security challenges.

“Also, they have been parading themselves as a legitimate government agency, hosting meetings with both foreigners and Nigerian citizens, and even requesting a note verbale from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to the United States of America to facilitate visas for some of their staff.

“The above development not only constitutes a serious criminal act but also undermines the integrity of the presidency and the credibility of official government communication.

“I therefore urge you to initiate a thorough investigation to identify and apprehend those involved and also to uncover the network facilitating the forgery,” the Chief of Staff wrote in his petition to the security agencies.

“The letter to the security agencies was accompanied by a copy of the forged appointment letter, a copy of the request for a note verbal to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and pictures of engagements obtained from the illegal agency’s website.

“Around the time the Chief of Staff lodged the complaint with the

security agencies, the existence of the fake agency had raised concerns within the Foreign Affairs Ministry.

“In a letter on October 15, 2025, the Foreign Affairs Ministry wrote to the office of the National Security Adviser and the Chief of Staff to the President, requesting clarification on the status of Adeyemi’s agency. The letter, which Ambassador Anderson Madubuike signed, followed Adeyemi’s October 10 meeting with ambassadors at the Wells Carlton Hotel and Apartments in Asokoro, without recourse to the ministry.

“This act contravenes extant rules and regulations guiding diplomatic practices globally, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in its letter.

“On October 20, the Office of the National Security Adviser wrote to the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, on the request of the Foreign Affairs Ministry.

“On 29 October, the OSGF wrote to the Chief of Staff requesting clarification.

“This has become expedient owing to

several requests from governmental and non-governmental bodies seeking to ascertain the status of the appointment under consideration.

“Two days earlier, the Chief of Staff sent his own clear rebuttal to the Foreign Affairs Ministry, stating that he had never issued an appointment letter to Adeyemi as director general of the fake presidential foreign investment promotion council.

“The Chief of Staff could not have issued a letter of appointment to a non-existent agency. Moreover, the Chief of Staff does not make appointments or write letters, as these are the exclusive preserve of the Office of the Secretary of the Government of the Federation.

“On November 5, 2025, the Chief of Staff responded to the OSGF, again flatly denying Adeniyi Adeyemi and his spurious agency. Prince Adeniyi Matthew, director-general of the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council, is unknown to any office, nor do we have any dealings with the said council.

ELOMBI RENEWS CALL FOR AFRICAN RATINGS AGENCY, SAYS CONTINENT MUST CONTROL ITS ECONOMIC NARRATIVE

some international ratings agencies once questioned Afreximbank’s developmental mandate and dismissed trade finance as incapable of driving economic transformation.

He said those perceptions had changed substantially as the bank expanded its impact across the continent, pointing to its latest investment-grade assessment by Standard & Poor’s (S&P) and growing recognition of its strategic role in supporting African economies.

According to him, Afreximbank has become “too big to fail” because of its central role in financing trade, supporting governments during economic shocks and advancing the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Addressing concerns over the bank’s lending profile, Elombi disclosed that nearly 80 per cent of Afreximbank’s assets were deployed as loans across Africa, demonstrating its commitment to financing productive sectors rather than holding idle assets.

He explained that the institution carefully managed credit risks while

maintaining a development-focused approach that prioritised businesses capable of transforming African economies.

Beyond financing trade, Elombi identified local processing of Africa’s vast mineral resources as the continent’s next major economic frontier.

He stated that exporting raw materials without processing them locally continued to deprive African countries of jobs, industrial growth, and higher export earnings.

He said the continent must deliberately build industries that would convert its mineral wealth into finished products before they leave African shores.

According to him, battery manufacturing represents one of the biggest opportunities currently reshaping global industrial competition, particularly with rising demand for electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies.

Citing his recent visit to China, Elombi said the global transition towards electric vehicles had created a once-in-a-generation opportunity for

Africa to build battery manufacturing industries around its abundant critical minerals.

He said Afreximbank would prioritise financing investors prepared to process lithium and other strategic minerals within Africa rather than export them in raw form.

He said, “We are no longer interested in people who simply mine Africa and ship the minerals abroad.

“We want investors who will mine, process and export finished products from Africa.”

With the availability of funding, Elombi identified shortage of specialised technical skills as the continent’s biggest constraint, stating that battery manufacturing expertise remains scarce across Africa.

He said Africa’s development agenda would remain incomplete unless the continent controlled the institutions that shaped global perceptions of its economies, mobilised more of its own capital, and built industries that retained value within Africa, instead of exporting raw materials with little economic benefit.

28

THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026 • THISDAY

NEWS

AFRICAN WOMEN LAWYERS ASSOCIATION PAYS COURTESY VISIT TO ENUGU COMMISSIONER OF POLICE...

Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, Mamman Bitrus Giwa (left) and the State Coordinator, African Women Lawyers Association (AWLAN), Enugu State Chapter, Bar. Chidi Grace Obeke, during a courtesy visit by the association to the Enugu State Police Command on Tuesday PHOTO: AWLAN, Enugu State Chapter

2027 Polls: INEC Can’t Build Robust Democracy in Isolation, Declares Amupitan Vows to deliver credible, transparent, inclusive poll to reflect people’s will in Osun

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has said the commission could not build a robust democracy in isolation, saying its partnership with the National Orientation Agency (NOA) on voter education was not a secondary option but an absolute necessity.

This was as the Osun State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola has declared that the Commission was fully aware of its mandate to deliver a free, fair, credible, inclusive and transparent election that would accurately reflect the will of the people of Osun State.

The Chairman stated this yesterday in Abuja while playing host to the Director General of NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-onilu.

He stated: “When we look at the landscape of our nation today as we prepare for the 2027 general election, it becomes immediately clear that INEC cannot build a robust democracy in isolation.

“We can purchase the finest Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines, we can optimise the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) to international standards, and we can map out the most logistical

routes for material deployment.

“But all of these technological and administrative triumphs mean nothing if the citizens remain detached, uniform, cynical, or completely uneducated about the power of their votes.

“This is where the National Orientation Agency comes in.

The NOA is, without a doubt, Nigeria’s premier organisation for civic orientation.”

Amupitan noted that while INEC was the umpire that set up the field and managed the game, NOA was the custodian of the values that made the players and the spectators respect the rules.

According to him, “You speak the languages of our people, you understand their local fears, and you know how to navigate the cultural nuances that shape public opinion.”

This, he said, was consistent with

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has praised the local content policy of his administration, which delivered world class infrastructure projects and empowered Osun contractors and suppliers.

The governor made the remarks while commissioning the Lameco Flyover Bridge in Osogbo, yesterday, noting that the policy has delivered several mega projects now ready for inauguration and public use.

“This project is not isolated.

seated cynicism. We see it in the off-cycle polls where turnout does not match the energy of our national conversations.”

Osun: INEC Vows to Deliver Credible, Inclusive Poll That’ll Reflect People’s Will Osun State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola has vowed that the Com-

mission was aware of its mandate to deliver a free, fair, credible, inclusive and transparent election that would accurately reflect the will of the people of Osun State.

The Commissioner, who stated this at a press conference on the level of preparedness ahead of the 2026 Osun State governorship election noted that Osun State had 1,954,800 registered voters before the CVR exercise.

Troops Kill 662 Terrorists, Arrest 1,084 Suspects in Second Quarter of 2026 Military shifts focus to dismantling criminal networks 15 killed by gunmen in early morning attack in Benue George Okoh in Makurdi and Linus Aleke in Abuja Troops of the Armed Forces of Nigeria killed 662 terrorists and other criminal elements, arrested 1,084 suspects and rescued 951 kidnapped victims across the country during the second quarter of 2026, the military has said.

This was as the military has intensified intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling terrorist and criminal networks beyond conventional battlefield engagements.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General

Michael Onoja, said the successes were recorded through sustained joint land operations, close air support and intelligence-driven missions conducted across the various theatres of operation nationwide.

According to him, the Armed Forces “recorded significant and far-reaching operational successes across all operational theatres during the month of June as well as the Second Quarter 2026.”

He noted that the troops “systematically degraded the operational capabilities of Boko Haram, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed

Adeleke Hails Osun Local Content Policy, Inaugurates Lameco Bridge Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

the duties and powers under section 3 of the National Orientation Agency Act of 1993. The relevant portions are sections 3(d), 3(e), (i) & (k).

Amupitan noted: “Therefore, our partnership with you on voter education is not a secondary option; it is an absolute necessity.

“We must be honest with ourselves. We are battling a silent, dangerous enemy in our electoral ecosystem: voter apathy and deep-

Today marks the commencement of the unveiling for public use of several mega projects initiated by our government.

“This is part of our administration’s promise to rebuild Osun through infrastructure that touches everybody’s life – roads, bridges, health, education and water.

“We implemented this and other mega projects in accordance with due process, transparency and without mortgaging the future of our children.

“The high quality of this flyover confirms the workability of our local

content model. We have proven to the whole world that our local engineers can perform to world class standards.

“I am glad to bring to our attention that our administration has completed over 27km length of intracity roads in Osogbo. Across the state, we have executed over 300 kilometres of roads.

“We have over 10 mega projects completed and ready for commissioning. We positively touch all major towns under our motto of equity and fairness in infrastructure innovation,” the governor said.

wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), as well as kidnapping syndicates, illegal oil bunkering cartels, and cross-border arms traffickers.”

He said the cumulative achievements reflected “the enduring commitment of a professional and resolute force dedicated to restoring peace, stability, and confidence across every geopolitical zone of the nation.”

The North-East remained the epicentre of military operations, accounting for 484 terrorists killed, 370 arrests and 595 kidnapped victims rescued during the quarter under Operation Hadin Kai. The theatre also recorded the surrender of 38 insurgents and their family members. Among the most significant operations was the rescue of 360 civilians, mostly women and children, during a multi-axis raid on the Mandara Mountains in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.

In the North-West, troops under Operation Fansan Yamma neutralised 77 terrorists, arrested 210 suspects and rescued 153 kidnapped victims, while also intercepting arms traffickers, logistics suppliers and terrorist collaborators in Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi and Zamfara states.

“The combined operations in the North-Central also underscored the military’s growing emphasis on dismantling criminal infrastructure,” General Onoja said.

He said across Operations Savannah Shield, Enduring Peace and Whirl Stroke, troops killed 83

terrorists, arrested 305 suspects and rescued 183 kidnapped victims.

According to him, “Several operations specifically targeted terrorist informants, kidnappers’ collaborators, illegal arms couriers and logistics providers, disrupting support networks sustaining criminal groups across the region.”

The South-East, he said, witnessed a similar intelligence-led approach, adding that, “Under Operation Udo Ka, troops neutralised 12 terrorists, arrested 115 suspects and rescued 20 kidnapped victims during the quarter.

“Military operations also led to the recovery of large caches of weapons, improvised explosive devices and ammunition, while key IPOB/ESN commanders and logisticians were apprehended in targeted raids”.

In the South-South, Operation Delta Safe focused largely on organised criminality and economic sabotage. Troops neutralised six criminal elements, arrested 84 suspects, dismantled 12 illegal refining sites and recovered more than 464,268 litres of stolen petroleum products, dealing what the military described as a major blow to illicit oil bunkering activities in the Niger Delta.

The statistics also point to an evolving operational strategy, with arrests significantly exceeding the number of terrorists killed.

The 1,084 suspects apprehended during the quarter included terrorist collaborators, informants, financiers, logistics suppliers, arms traffickers

and kidnapping syndicate members, indicating an increased emphasis on degrading the support structures that enable terrorist and criminal organisations to operate.

Benue: 15 Killed by Gunmen in Early Morning Attack An early morning attack by gunmen suspected to be herdsmen on a farming community in Mbajir Ward of Katsina Ala Local Government Area has led to death of 15 people and several others seriously injured.

The attack, according to sources, was carried out by herdsmen.

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has described the tragic incident as a “senseless assault on innocent citizens,” and directed security agencies to act fast to get at the perpetrators.

A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, stated that the Governor was deeply worried, and has extended his condolences to the families of the bereaved.

He said, “This attack is an ugly, cowardly and unacceptable act of violence, particularly coming at a crucial time when our hardworking farmers, who have returned home.

At the same time, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governorship candidate, Chief Michael Aondoakaa, SAN, has also condemned the current wave of attacks in parts of the state which have led to the killing of many innocent people and displacement of thousands of others.

29

thursday JUly 2 , 2026 • T H i s d ay

NEWS

INTENSIFYING WAR AGAINST ILLICIT DRUGS…

Comptroller General of Customs Service, Dr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi (second left) and the Director, Seaports Operations, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Assistant Commander General of Narcotics (ACGN) Ibinabo Archie-Abia, during the formal taking custody of seized illicit drugs by NDLEA at the Apapa Port, Lagos…yesterday

Indigenes Protests, Urges FG, NSA, Delta to Avert Another Killings in Ogidigben

Sylvester Idowu in Warri

Indigenes of Ogidigben in the riverine Federated Ugborodo Communities in Warri SouthWest Local Government Area of Delta State, have protested against the release of those that invaded the area with AK-47 rifles on April 6, 2026 leading to the killing of a youth, Emiko Onuwaje.

Elderly men and women, and youths protested round

the community on Tuesday with placards decrying sudden release of four youths that committed the dastardly act without proper investigation and prosecution of the suspects.

Some of the placards read: “Ogidigben people cannot afford a third armed attack,” “The killers of Emiko Onuwaje cannot go unpunished, “We now live in fear in Ogidigben,”and

“DG DSS, order your men to produce those arrested with arms in Ogidigben in April,”.

They appealed to President Bola Tinubu, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the National Security Adviser and

Jigawa State Governor, Malam Umar Namadi, yesterday declared that the state is open for business, as he unveiled a N902 billion investment-driven budget and a pipeline of bankable projects.

He urged local and foreign investors to take advantage of emerging opportunities across agriculture, manufacturing, renewable energy, healthcare and infrastructure in the state.

Speaking at the opening of the Second Jigawa State Economic and Investment Summit (J-INVEST 2026) held at the Government House Banquet Hall in Dutse, the governor said the state had

moved beyond investment promotion to actual project delivery, having facilitated 64 realised investments in the last three years.

The summit, attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, ministers, governors, lawmakers, diplomats, development partners and business leaders, was convened on the theme: ‘Unlocking Opportunities, Driving Sustainable Growth for a Greater Jigawa’.

Namadi said his administration had deliberately positioned Jigawa as one of Nigeria’s most attractive investment destinations through policy reforms, infrastructure expansion, and investor-friendly initiatives.

circulation of a viral video on social media, showing one of the suspects who was arrested during the April attack allegedly boasting that the group would return to invade Ogidigben.

The indigenes, during the

peaceful protest, called for an investigation into the alleged release of suspects arrested after the April 6, 2026 armed attack on the community, claiming the individuals were now threatening to stage another invasion.

Sokoto Zone ASUU Threatens Shutdown over Unpaid Allowances, Unimplemented 2025 Agreement

Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto

Namadi Woos Investors The Academic Staff Union of with N902bn Capital Budget Universities (ASUU), Sokoto

Ibrahim Shuaibu in Dutse

other top security agencies to urgently intervene over what they described as growing threats to the safety of lives and property in the community.

The protest, it was gathered, followed the

Zone, has warned that failure by state governments to implement the 2025 FGNASUU Agreement and clear outstanding welfare debts will trigger an industrial crisis in

affected universities.

In a press conference yesterday, the Zonal Coordinator of ASUU, Prof. Abubakar Sabo, told journalists that despite the public presentation of the 2025 agreement in January and repeated notifications to state governments and university managements, “bureaucratic

delays, inconsistencies, and lack of willingness to implement it” have stalled progress.

“Our branches note with deep concern the nonimplementation of the 2025 FGN-ASUU Agreement signed between the Federal Government and ASUU. Meanwhile, SAZU, EKSU, BOUESTI, UNIOSUN, BSU,

OOU, SSU and SSUES have commenced implementation,” Prof. Sabo said.

He listed key unimplemented components to include mainstreaming of Consolidated Academic Allowances, Earned Academic Allowances, and Professorial Allowances into monthly salary structures as contained in the agreement.

PAVE Launches 30-Day National Campaign to Protect Lives Michael Olugbode in Abuja

As Nigeria continues to grapple with worsening insecurity, recurring abductions and deadly attacks on communities, the Partnership Against Violent Extremism (PAVE) Network has launched a 30-day nationwide civic advocacy

campaign aimed at mobilising citizens and policymakers to prioritise the protection of lives and strengthen security governance.

The campaign, unveiled in Abuja yesterday, is themed “Protect Nigerian Lives: End Abductions, Strengthen Communities and Stop the Politicisation of Insecurity.”

PAVE said the initiative seeks to channel growing public frustration over insecurity into sustained civic engagement capable of driving practical reforms, strengthening community resilience and improving accountability in the country’s security architecture.

According to the

organisation, Nigeria’s security crisis continues to manifest through widespread abductions, violent extremism, organised criminality, attacks on schools and increasing threats to livelihoods, stressing that addressing the challenge requires not only decisive government action but also active citizen participation.

PAAU’s VC Vows to Tackle Insecurity within Varsity Community Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

agencies to support anti-cultism

“He made this known

security within and around the

University, Anyigba, Kogi State, Professor Salisu Usman, has strengthened the university’s security architecture with the donation of two branded operational vehicles to security

This was made known in a statement signed by the Public Relations Office of the institution, Uredo Omale, and made available to journalists in Lokoja yesterday.

Council Chamber, where members of the university community, security agencies, traditional rulers, and other critical stakeholders deliberated on strategies for strengthening

stakeholders to the meeting and stressed its importance in sustaining a peaceful, safe and conducive learning environment for staff, students and members of the host community.

and enhance safety at the Expanded Security university.

ASHRAE Nigeria Inaugurates Systems The Vice-Chancellor of operations on campus and in the host Stakeholders’ meeting held on In his remarks, the Donated to UNILAG Medical Centre Prince Abubakar Audu community.

June 29, 2026, at the University vice-chancellor welcomed As part of efforts aimed at improving the indoor environment quality, Young Engineers of American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (ASHRAE) Nigeria Chapter has donated refrigeration and cooling systems ( BREATH) to the University of Lagos Medical Centre, Akoka campus, Lagos.

According to ASHRAE YEA Chair, Abraham Okoko, “ the BREATH project, is for improved air quality, and thermal comfort of the indoor and environment of the Medical Centre, UNILAG Akoka campus, Lagos by the young engineers of ASHRAE Nigeria Chapter.”

In their presentation, Project Team Leads, Favour Olayode and Olamide Mubarak, outlined the project’s key impacts, relevant details, and benefits.

“This would purify, improve energy efficiency, lighting and enhance thermal comfort of the Medical Center facility users,” they said.

Also speaking, ASHRAE Nigeria chapter President (2025-2026),Franklin Olatunji, during an interview, thanked the young engineer members (YEA) for the gesture and urged them to uphold their dedication to serving humanity and promoting a sustainable world as professionals.

GEN Nigeria, Tripoint Travel Launch GEC+ Africa Regional Competition The Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN) Nigeria, in partnership with Tripoint Travel Limited and the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC), Pan-Atlantic University, has concluded the Nigerian leg of the GEC+ Africa Regional Pitch Competition.

The event, held in Lagos,

featured 10 innovative entrepreneurs pitching their businesses, with the top three selected to represent Nigeria at GEC+ Africa in Cape Town, South Africa, later this year under the theme, “Connecting Africa.”

The regional pitch competition forms part of GEN

Nigeria’s lead-up activities to the Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC+ Africa), scheduled for September 2026 in Cape Town. The initiative is designed to connect Nigerian founders with investors, policymakers, Entrepreneur Support Organisations (ESOs), and fellow entrepreneurs from

across the continent.

Speaking at the event, Executive Head of 22 On Sloane and Co-Chair of GEN Africa, Mr. Kizito Okechukwu, described GEC+ Africa as a pan-African platform aimed at strengthening entrepreneurship ecosystems across the continent.

30

THURSDAYSPORTS

THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026 • THISDAY

Group Sports Editor: Duro Ikhazuagbe Email: duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY

Tinubu to Perform Send-off for Team Nigeria in Abuja Today Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja President Bola Tinubu will today perform the official send-off for the Nigerian contingent to the United Kingdom for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland ahead of their departure to Aberdeen tomorrow.

C O M M O N W E A LT H G A M E S The event, billed for the Presidential Villa, is part of the President’s show of support for the team before they depart for the final phase of the Games.

Nigeria is looking to build on Team Nigeria’s impressive outing at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, where the country emerged as the highest-ranked

African nation on the medals table after amassing 35 medals comprising 12 gold, 9 silver and 14 bronze.

The Nigerian athletes, camped in Abuja, where for an intensive training will undertake a three-week training camp before proceeding to Glasgow, the host city of the Games.

Nigeria will compete in 10 sports at the Commonwealth Games, with a contingent of 74 athletes expected to represent the country.

The 2026 Commonwealth Games will hold from July 23 to August 2, bringing together athletes from across the Commonwealth to compete for honours in various sporting events.

Just last Monday, the National Sports Commission (NSC) named Nigeria’s Shot Put star, Chukwuebuka Enekwechi, as the nation’s male captain for the team The U.S-based 2018 Commonwealth Games silver medalist will co-lead the Nigerian team alongside two-time

Olympic Champion, Folashade Oluwafemiayo who is the female captain for Team Nigeria at the Games.

33 year-old Enekwechi is the current African Champion and he is also the 2019 African Games champion alongside his status as the reigning National Sports Festival Champion.

The Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, said that the choice of both Chukwuebuka Enekwechi and Folashade Oluwafemiayo resonates perfectly with the vision of the Commission to have a clear mentorship pathway for the country’s young athletes to aspire for greatness in their chosen sports.

Nigerian Sprinter, Oghenebrume, Jailed 27 Months in USA, Faces Deportation

The Lamine Camara (right) tackle on goal-bound Youri Tielemans that resorted in the penalty kick that earned Belgium their third and winning goal last night

Belgium’s Incredible Comeback Denies Senegal Last 16 Berth Duro Ikhazuagbe

Senegal’s Teranga Lions were close to qualifying for the Last 16 stage of the 2026 World Cup in North America last night but lost the opportunity through Youri Tielemans’ extra time penalty that fired Belgium 3-2 into the next round.

Belgium came back from two goals down scored by Habib Diarraand Ismaïla Sarr. Two goals in three minutes by substitute Romelu Lukaku in the 86th minute and Tielemans in the 89th dragged the match into extra time.

Tielemans was then fouled just before the end of the 30 minutes of extra time inside the 22meter box for the referee to award the penalty after a VAR review.

2026 WORLD CUP The former Leicester City star converted the 125th minute penalty to send Belgium through to the Last 16.

Unlike what happened during the controversial AFCON 2025 final in Morocco when a similar late penalty led to the Senegalese leaving the pitch in protest, the Teranga Lions initially argued against the penalty award to Belgium but accepted their fate and allowed it to be played.

Tielemans didn’t waste the chance the way Brahmin Diaz did for Morocco.

And so ended Senegal’s adventure at the World Cup. They came so close, yet missed the chance to join the elite of global football in the Last 16 stage.

Senegal were in control for 86 minutes, leading by two goals for 35 of those after Sarr’s splendidly taken goal. Pape Thiaw’s men could have had more too, with Sarr having hit the post twice before Diarra’s opener midway through the first half.

Their attack, with Sarr, Iliman Ndiaye and Sadio Mane, was humming. Behind them, the midfield trio of goalscorer Diarra, Pape Gueye and Idrissa Gueye rotated well. They provided the stamina needed to help Senegal’s defence ward off Belgian attacks too.

But two lapses in concentration meant they were punished by opponents who had offered little up to that point.

For Lukaku who spearheaded the revival, the win over Senegal has sent the message that: he still has so much to offer despite his inability to recreate

those moments that made him Special at Stamford Bridge.

Senegal advanced to the knockout round as one of the best third-place finishers. The African team navigated one of the toughest groups in the tournament, facing France and the Erling Haaland-led Norway.

Belgium won its group with five points. The Red Devils did not advance out of the group stage at the last World Cup in Qatar following a historic third-place finish at the 2018 tournament in Russia.

RESULTS Mexico 2-0 Ecuador England 2-1 DR Congo Belgium 3-2 Senegal.

TODAY USA v Bosnia & Herze (1am) Spain Austria (8pm)

One of Nigeria’s promising sprinters, Godson Oghenebrume, has been handed a 27-month prison sentence by a United States federal court after he was convicted of illegal possession of a firearm while in the country on a non-immigrant student visa.

Oghenebrume, 23, who resides in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was sentenced for possession of a firearm by an alien admitted to the United States under a non-immigrant visa.

The decision was announced by U.S. Attorney Kurt L. Wall in a statement issued by the Department of Justice on June 30, 2026.

Upon completing his prison sentence, the Nigerian sprinter will be deported from the United States.

According to court documents, Oghenebrume admitted during a plea agreement that he possessed a Glock 43X 9mm pistol on February 7, 2025, despite being in the United States on an F-1 student visa.

Prosecutors said the incident

stemmed from a domestic dispute involving Oghenebrume, his former girlfriend, who is the mother of his infant child and another woman at his apartment.

Court filings stated that after an argument outside the apartment, Oghenebrume discharged the firearm in the presence of the infant.

The confrontation later escalated, with authorities alleging that he fired multiple shots as his ex-girlfriend fled with the child, leaving bullet holes in the apartment complex.

The sprinter was also accused of damaging his former girlfriend’s mobile phone and briefly taking custody of the infant before the child was safely retrieved by the other woman present.

When deputies from the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office arrived, Oghenebrume allegedly ignored commands to stop, walked away from officers and discarded the handgun into nearby shrubs before being taken into custody.

Serena Doubtful for Wimbledon’s Doubles after Hurting Her Knee Serena Williams’ hopes of playing alongside older sister Venus in the Wimbledon doubles look in doubt after she injured her knee in her singles comeback.

The pair, who are six-time doubles champions at the All England Club, are scheduled to reunite on a Grand Slam court for the first time since 2022 on Friday.

However, 44-year-old Serena Williams might not be fit enough to play after her knee swelled up during her defeat by Australia’s Maya Jointon Tuesday.

The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion did not speak to the media following the match, with Wimbledon organisers saying she was “not able to undertake” her duties.

“Serena tweaked her right knee at the end of the first set and was therefore excused from her media obligations by the Wimbledon and WTA medical teams,” said Williams’ agent Jill Smoller.

“She left site that night unaided and is doing everything she can to be ready for her doubles match later this week.”

Harry Kane’s Two Late Goals Against DR Congo Qualify Three Lions for Last 16 Harry Kane...he saved England from early departure from the ongoing 2026 World Cup in North America yesterday

England were spared one of the biggest humiliations in their World Cup history by Harry Kane’s two late goals as they came from behind to beat DR Congo 2-1 in Atlanta to reach the last 16.

Thomas Tuchel’s side were 15 minutes away from an embarrassing exit as DR Congo defended the early lead given to them by Brian Cipenga.

It was then that captain and talisman Kane came to the rescue by heading the equaliser after 75 minutes, before lashing in a stunning winner on the turn with four minutes left.

DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi made a string of magnificent saves to keep England at bay – although Yoane Wissa hit the post

with the goal at his mercy on the stroke of half-time.

The miss kept England, who had put in a largely dreadful performance, in the game.

And with time running out, Kane came to the rescue once more with a superb header from substitute Anthony Gordon’s cross.

Kane’s fifth goal of this World

Cup was even better. He collected the ball on the edge of the box, turned, strode forward and flashed a powerful right-foot finish high past Mpasi to dig England out of massive hole.

England will now face co-hosts Mexico at their Azteca Stadium in Mexico City on Monday, 6 July (1. a.m.)

T H I S D AY • THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026

31

BACK PAGE CONTINUATION GUNS, GOLD AND A N AT I O N B E S I E G E D helped to expose how some of the criminal networks operating in Nigeria had perfected a seamless method of laundering money through BDC operators. Once the money has been given to a BDC operator in Dubai, he contacts an associate in Nigeria who gives the same amount in cash to the coordinator. The coordinator then distributes the funds to members who incidentally have no direct contact with one another, in an elaborate scheme to cover their tracks. The same pattern was discovered for disbursement of ransom monies from kidnappings, especially those traced to illegal mining in Zamfara State.

A combination of porous borders, weak signal and technical intelligence and other associated issues have combined to make banditry the most lucrative enterprise for some criminals who are spreading their tentacles across the country. To his credit, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Mr Oladele Alake is not in denial about the challenge of the sector. He has consistently maintained that powerful forces sponsor most of the violence that now defines our country to secure and control mineral-rich territories. But with the proliferation of arms and hundreds of muscle men working as miners, authorities in the security sector must understand that we are dealing with a serious threat that is not only well organized but also well-funded. And the only way to dismantle this criminal network is to go after the illicit funding with which they procure their arms.

THE ACCOUNTABLE JUNKIE said. “I used to disturb him for money all the time, and most of the money I collected from him was used to buy drugs.”

Boniface has confirmed knowing Johnson whom he described as a good guy. In a hilarious post for which he is renown on social media, he added that the interview contained a ‘lie’ because he (Boniface) trekked for two hours from his house to the football field every day and another two hours to return home. Johnson, according to Boniface, ‘edited’ his trekking by 30 minutes on each leg of the journey!

The timing of this discussion is relevant. Last Friday, June 26 marked the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking with the theme, ‘World drug problem: persisting issues, new challenges, innovative responses.’ The most recent National Drug Use Survey estimates about 14.3 million Nigerians aged 15 to 64 use psychoactive substances, representing one in seven individuals and nearly three times the global average. The substances involved, such as tramadol, pentazocine, and codeine, are inexpensive and widely accessible, especially among young people. But more ominously, it is most prevalent among the criminals that now hold our country by the jugular.

Following the 2018 British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) documentary, ‘Secrets of Nigeria’s illicit codeine trade revealed’, by Ms Ruona Meyer (nee Agbroko), the then Senate Leader, Ahmed Lawan (who later became Senate President) lent credence to the nexus between substance abuse and Boko Haram insurgency. “The information I got this morning is that 70% of this codeine that

comes into Nigeria finds its way into Sambisa Forest,” Lawan said at the time. “We may even have some of our security agents who are under the influence of drugs.”

While receiving the Sheikh Ahmed Gumi-led ‘Bandits Repentance Initiative’, then Governor (now a Senator) Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State shared a revealing anecdote. “A counterpart of mine, a serving governor, once narrated to me an incidence. He visited a hamlet and wanted to patronise the local women coming back from the market where they had gone to hawk dairy products, and one of them ran away. He asked what the problem was and was told that she (the woman who ran away) wasn’t carrying dairy products in her calabash but drugs,” Tambuwal recounted. “My colleague told me that much of the drugs used by the kidnappers and violent marauders get to them this way.”

The National Law Drug Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Chairman, Brigadier-General Buba Marwa (rtd), has done a lot in fighting the scourge. But as commendable as Marwa’s efforts are—and he truly deserves accolades—the challenge is rather overwhelming. Especially in a country where amphetamine-type stimulants and dangerous over-the counter (OTC) drugs are available on every street corner while syndicates adapt, and society continues to frame addiction as a moral failing rather than a problem to be solved.

Now, let’s go back to Johnson. An individual many might dismiss as a ‘junkie’ and destitute publicly accepted responsibility for the wrong

choices that have landed him where he is today.

In contrast, public officials frequently deflect blame: poor infrastructure is attributed to previous administrations, depleted treasuries to saboteurs, insecurity to ‘external forces’ etc. But we should not reduce Johnson’s experience to a simplistic moral lesson. When it comes to drug abuse, clinicians emphasize that recovery begins with acknowledging the problem, a step Johnson has taken publicly.

Committing to a rehabilitation pathway and sticking to it is a more difficult challenge.

In many ways, Nigeria itself mirrors Johnson’s tragic struggle: a nation hooked on the narcotic of illicit financial flows from irregular mining and the violence it sustains. Just as Johnson admitted that tramadol robbed him of health, dignity, and opportunity, so too do the cartels and their patrons know that this addiction to blood gold robs the country of human development, stability, and prosperity. Yet, like Johnson, the State remains unable to break free without external help and a deliberate rehabilitation programme. Until Nigeria confronts this dependency with honesty and designs a firm pathway to recovery, it will continue to stagger between denial and decay, wasting away while others march forward.

Overall, one lesson I have taken from Johnson is that a person’s capacity for growth is inseparable from their willingness to face uncomfortable truths about themselves without hesitation. That for me is why Johnson deserves help. And if there are some genuine efforts to rehabilitate him, I am willing to offer my support.

NEWS

Oyebanji: I’m Targeting 700,000 Votes for Tinubu in 2027, Vows Inclusive Governance Promises to carry opposition leaders along in act of governance

Deji Elumoye in Abuja Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has projected that the state would deliver between 600,000 and 700,000 votes for President BolaTinubu during the January, 2027 general election He expressed confidence that the target was achievable following the growing electoral support for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

Speaking with newsmen yesterday

at the State House after meeting Tinubu, Oyebanji, said the steady rise in the party’s electoral performance since 2022 showed that the president’s re-election prospects in Ekiti were “very bright.”

The governor, who last month secured a historic second term in office, said APC won about 187,000 votes in the 2022 governorship election, increased the figure to about 210,000 during the 2023 presidential election, and recorded about 318,000

votes in the 2026 governorship poll.

According to him, “The President’s chances are very bright. In 2022, when we first contested, we won with about 187,000 votes. Six months later, when the President contested and I had only been in office for a few months, we increased it to about 210,000 votes.

“This 2026 governorship election has produced about 318,000 votes.

So you can extrapolate from that and see that our target in 2027 is

between 600,000 and 700,000 votes, and it is doable.”

Oyebanji attributed his re-election victory, the first by any governor in the state, to God’s grace and Tinubu’s support, saying both factors enabled his administration to fulfil its promises to the people.

His words: “It is not about what I have done differently. It is about two factors: the grace of God, and the support of the President that enabled us to deliver on our promises to our

DHQ Worries over Hostile Propaganda, Declares Social Media Fuels Misinformation

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ), has expressed concern over what it described as growing hostile propaganda against the Nigerian military, calling for deeper collaboration with the media to counter false narratives and promote national security.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by the newly elected executive committee of the Defence Correspondents’ Association of Nigeria (DECAN) to his office at the Defence Headquarters Abuja, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, said stronger cooperation between the military and the media was essential to addressing hostile propaganda directed at the Armed Forces.

He observed that social media platforms have become major channels for the spread of misinformation and fake news, alleging that such activities were driven largely by parochial economic interests rather than national interest and national security objectives.

Onoja expressed concern that some citizens deliberately circulate fake news, disinformation and

misinformation to attract readership and online engagement for financial gain without considering the implications for national security and the country’s reputation.

“We are very concerned about hostile propaganda. If we partner the media, we will make greater progress in countering false narratives. The press is not our enemy; they are partners who help inform Nigerians about what the military is doing,” he said.

He urged journalists to support national security and social cohesion by ensuring balanced and responsible reporting.

“Whatever you publish should enhance national security and national cohesion. We should avoid divisive reportage that could worsen existing tensions in the country,” he said.

The Director of Defence Media Operations also reaffirmed the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s commitment to providing accurate and factual information to the public, encouraging journalists to seek clarification whenever necessary.

“I operate an open-door policy.

If you have any doubt, you are free

to ask,” he said.

Onoja, however, explained that operational security considerations sometimes prevented the immediate release of certain information.

“Sometimes information cannot be released immediately because of operational security, not because we are hiding it. Some information is sensitive and premature disclosure could have serious consequences on troops’ operations,” he said.

He described media operations as a critical component of modern military campaigns, noting that effective communication plays a vital role in shaping public perception, countering misinformation and sustaining public confidence.

“Media operations is one of the lines of operation that is very important whenever the military is conducting operations. That is why this office was created, and we are committed to partnering with the media to ensure that only accurate information is made available to the public,” he stated.

Earlier, the President of DECAN, Sunday Odita, described the relationship between the Defence Headquarters and defence correspondents

as a “strategic partnership” aimed at promoting national security and strengthening public confidence in the Armed Forces.

people. These are the two factors that led to the result we saw two weeks ago.”

He also pledged to run a more inclusive administration in his second term, stressing that the election was over and governance must now take precedence over politics.

Oyebanji disclosed that he had already reached out to his major opponents after the election, saying he personally called both candidates and had already visited one of them alongside the chairman of his campaign council.

He promised to also visit other opposition candidates on his return to Ekiti, adding that both had assured him of their cooperation in the interest of the state’s development.

“The election ended when the winner was declared. I phoned the two other candidates and, together with the chairman of the campaign council, we visited one of them. Once

I get back to Ekiti, I will visit the other one.

“They have assured me of their cooperation because election has ended, politics has ended and we have to move back to governance. I told them I would need their wisdom, suggestions and advice in ensuring that we continue to deliver for our people,” he said.

On his agenda for second term, Oyebanji said his administration would remain committed to implementing Ekiti State’s 30-year development plan, explaining that the long-term blueprint would continue to guide government policies, annual budgets and development priorities.

Said he: “We are not going to do anything differently because that 30-year development plan is the basis upon which our yearly budgets are built and upon which our manifesto is crafted. We will continue to diligently follow that plan.”

PDP Tackles Akpabio, Says Party Not Dead, But Alive and Remains the Hottest Bride more prosperous future. coming of Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Chuks Okocha in Abuja The Nyesom Wike faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), yesterday, tackled the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, who said the party was dead, insisting that the PDP was alive and remained the best political bride of all politicians.

The PDP said one of the performing ministers of the President Bola Tinubu administration is a member of the party.

In a statement by the National Publicity Secretary, Haruna Jungudo said to Akpabio, “The PDP is not dead. PDP is alive. The PDP is healthy. Above all, the PDP remains a beautiful bride on hot demand, firmly positioned to win future elections and lead Nigeria towards a brighter,

“History teaches that political parties derive their strength, legitimacy, and longevity not from the verdict of their opponents but from the confidence, support, and trust of the people.

“For twenty-seven years, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has weathered political storms, overcome difficult moments, and consistently emerged stronger. This season of renewal will be no exception and we are bold to say the PDP is alive! The PDP is strong! The PDP is rebuilding!”

Jungudo said the growing momentum around the party was visible and undeniable, explaining, that, “The recent decision of Iyabo Obasanjo to identify with the PDP, the

Pantami to the umbrella family, our impressive victory in the Adamawa State Local Government elections, our triumph in the Rivers State Senate bye-election, and the steady influx of political leaders and stakeholders from Katsina, Jigawa, Imo, Oyo, and several other states into the PDP, to mention but a few, clearly demonstrate that our party continues to broaden its national appeal and consolidate its position ahead of future elections.”

“These developments stand in sharp contrast to the claim by the President of the Senate, His Excellency Senator Godswill Akpabio, that the PDP is ‘dead’ and urging the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory to ‘allow what is dead to remain dead’.

T H I S D AY • THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026

Price: N400

BACK PAGE LEAD PHOTOGRAPH

PRE-INVESTITURE PRESS CONFERENCE OF 53RD PRESIDENT/CHAIRMAN OF COUNCIL...

L-R: Head of Business Development, SCIB Nigeria Limited, Mr. Gboyega Olabiwoninu; Managing Director/CEO, Tample Insurance Brokers Limited, Mr. Peter Ajagunna; Incoming President, Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (CIIN), Mr. Akinjide Orimolade; Managing Director/CEO, Guinea Insurance Plc, Mr. Ademola Abidogun; Executive Secretary, Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB), Mr. Tope Adaramola; and Director of Finance, CIIN, Mr. Solomon Alunge, at the pre- investiture press conference of the 53rd President/Chairman of Council Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (CIIN) held yesterday

PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT

OLUSEGUNADENIYI THE VERDICT olusegun.adeniyi@thisdaylive.com

Guns, Gold and a Nation Besieged

A

new report, ‘The Shadow Owners,’ published by the Alliance for Economic Research and Ethics Limited (AERE) has confirmed how the worsening insecurity in our country is being fuelled by powerful forces that are linked to illegal mining that is now effectively a multi-billion dollars organised crime.

Last November, ‘Daily Trust’ published a similar report of how gold from Zamfara is being bartered for guns that fuel the violence across the Northwest.

“We exchange the gold for weapons. We give them the gold and they bring us the guns,” a notorious bandit leader Kachalla Mati, reportedly told the newspaper through an intermediary. “Sometimes we sell it here; sometimes we send it to Dubai.”

Mati, who reportedly controls several mining camps scattered across Anka, Kawaye and Dankamfani in Zamfara State, earns between N200 million and N300 million weekly from illicit gold mining, according to the report. The proceeds, he admitted to the newspaper, are mostly channelled into buying firearms from suppliers operating along the Nigeria–Niger–Mali corridor. It is therefore little surprise that after the offices of President, Governor, Senator and House of Representatives, Minister, what some young Nigerians—especially those without education or skills—now desire is to be a Kachala. Some of them even maintain social media accounts!

Dele Alake...Solid Minerals Minister While launching ‘Operation Puff Adder’ on 5 April 2019, then Inspector General of Police, Mr Mohammed Adamu confirmed that there is a “glaring nexus between the activities of armed bandits and illicit miners, with both mutually re-enforcing each other.” From ‘A society governed by rustlers’ to ‘Let’s kill all their men’ to ‘The Zamfara Killing

Fields’ and ‘Criminal Cartels on the Loose’, this is also an issue that I have engaged several times on this page. In a 2018 column, ‘Beyond the Banditry in Zamfara’, I quoted a prominent northern politician with whom I spoke who said: “It is the criminal gangs behind illegal mining that supply most of the arms and they have godfathers among prominent people in Zamfara.”

Whether we want to admit it or not, a discernible gangster ethos now defines living and livelihoods in many of the communities where gold is mined as sundry criminal cartels carve empires for themselves.

But these entrepreneurs of violence feel emboldened because they consider themselves above the law and in a way, they are. As the Daily Trust report reveals, this is a straightforward but deadly commerce.

“Gold mined under armed supervision is stockpiled, smuggled through porous borders, and exchanged directly with gunrunners. These dealers supply automatic rifles, ammunition, and motorcycles used for raids on villages. When direct exchange is impossible, the gold is sold in regional black markets, with the cash used to purchase weapons from intermediaries in the Sahel.”

Over the years, there have been many crucial leads on the sources of insecurity in Nigeria. For instance, following a tip-off in July 2016, the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) arrested an obscure fruit seller under a bridge in Zaria,

The Accountable Junkie

A

video circulating online features a young man, Johnson Kpokpoola, with visibly damaged legs who recounts how he lost everything to drug use. Before he got hooked on drugs, Johnson had trained at a football academy in Akure, Ondo State, alongside peers with the same dream. One of those boys was Victor Boniface, a striker currently playing for Bundesliga club Werder Bremen, on loan from Bayer Leverkusen. While Boniface has made his name in European football and our national team, Super Eagles, Johnson now practically wastes away. By his own account, tramadol is the decisive factor.

The most notable aspect of the interview is not the misfortune itself, which is regrettably common, but Johnson’s explanation of its cause. He states directly that his years of dependence on tramadol, pentazocine, and codeine syrups led to his condition and details the physical consequences. “I dare not

wear shorts anymore. Just look at my legs—one is bigger than the other. People see my leg and feel sorry for me because of the wound. They don’t know the wound was caused by drugs,” Johnson confessed. “I even lie to people about how it happened, and they give me money. I still use that money to buy the same injections again.

Victor Boniface and I played together at the same academy.”

When the interviewer asked Johnson for proof, he produced a photograph of their time together at the Royal Gold South Academy, Akure. “I am addicted to pentazocine, promethazine and tramadol.

I have been using tramadol for about 14 years now,” he said while confirming his helplessness.

“Anyone who is addicted to tramadol will testify to what I’m saying. Sometimes when you take it, you don’t even think you have any problems. You don’t even think about food.”

Contrasting his life with that of Boniface while they were both hustling to make a career in football, Johnson said he had it easier. “From my house to the training ground was about a 10-minute walk.

From the barracks where Boniface lived, it was about one hour and thirty minutes. He would trek there for training by 4 p.m., finish around 6 p.m., and then trek another one hour and thirty minutes back home. That’s why I am not surprised he made it in football.” On whether he has ever received help from Boniface, Johnson answered in the affirmative. “Even when he was in Norway, he sent me money many times. I also understand why he eventually neglected me. If you’re helping someone and you realise the person doesn’t seem to have any direction or isn’t trying to improve his life, you’ll eventually stop helping,” Johnson Continued on page 31

Kaduna State. Investigations later revealed the man to be a high-ranking Boko Haram operative who was coordinating their finance cell with others in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) by disbursing funds to various terror camps in Northeast Nigeria as well as Diffa, Nigér Republic. The Zaria arrest eventually revealed a pattern of financial flows not only to Boko Haram field operatives but also to other criminal cartels, particularly those engaged in kidnappings for ransom.

Between 2015 and 2016, according to ONSA investigation, the sum of $782,000 was transferred from Dubai to Nigeria through Bureau De Change (BDC) operators to aid Boko Haram. This was what led to the April 2019 conviction in Dubai of six Nigerians, including a man identified as a government official whose name remains a mystery till today. But the Dubai security breakthrough Continued on page 31

You’re Wrong on NDIC!

By Hawwau Gambo Dear Mr Adeniyi, n your column of 4 June 2026 titled, ‘Federal Republic of Waste’, you linked an alleged abandoned property at 67 Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, Lagos, to the defunct Credite Bank. The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) wishes to clarify that the building in question was not owned by Credite Bank. Rather, it was a rented premises occupied by the defunct bank as its head office. Upon the revocation of the bank’s licence and the handover of the bank to the NDIC by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Corporation, in its capacity as the official liquidator, disposed of all the assets and chattels belonging to the bank in accordance with the liquidation process. However, being the property of a third party, the building was returned to its rightful owner and thus, did not form part of the bank’s assets available for disposal.

We therefore wish to assure your readers that the NDIC remains committed to transparency, accountability and the efficient management of the assets of failed banks in accordance with its statutory mandate. This clarification is necessary to correct the wrong impression inadvertently created in your column.

•Gambo is Head, Communication & Public Affairs Department at the NDIC

I

Printed and Published in Lagos by THISDAY Newspapers Limited. Lagos: 35 Creek Road, Apapa, Lagos. Abuja: Plot 1, Sector Centre B, Jabi Business District, Solomon Lar Way, Jabi North East, Abuja .

All Correspondence to POBox 54749, Ikoyi, Lagos. EMAIL: editor@thisdaylive.com, info@thisdaylive.com. TELEPHONE Lagos: 0802 2924721-2, 08022924485. Abuja: Tel: 08155555292, 08155555929 24/7 ADVERTISING HOT LINES: 0811 181 3085, 0811 181 3086, 0811 181 3087, 0811 181 3088, 0811 181 3089, 0811 181 3090. ENQUIRIES & BOOKING: adsbooking@thisdaylive.com (ISSN 1117-871X)