THURSDAY 4TH DECEMBER 2025

Abubakar Bagudu, in Abuja,

James Emejo in Abuja

AFTER PLENARY...

CBN Tweaks Cash Deposit Policy to Curb Costs, Security Risks, Money Laundering

Abolishes deposit limits, increases weekly withdrawal threshold to N500,000 for individuals, N5m for corporates Declares fee for excess deposit, exemption of embassies, diplomatic missions, aid-donor agencies from specific cash policies shall no longer apply Exempts revenue generating accounts of federal, state, local governments, others

James Emejo in Abuja and Nume Ekeghe in Lagos

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), yesterday announced the removal of all limits on cash deposits, and raised the weekly cash withdrawal limit across all channels to N500,000 from N100,000 for individuals, and N5 million for corporates.

The revised policy, effective from January 1, 2026, was contained in a CBN circular issued to all banks, other financial institutions and the public, titled, “Revised Cash-Related Policies”, which was signed by Director, Financial Policy and Regulation Department, Dr. Rita Sike.

The central bank further declared that effective January, cumulative deposit limit would be removed while fee for excess deposit shall no longer apply, adding that exemption of embassies, diplomatic missions and aid-donor agencies from specific cash policies had been

abolished.

In a separate development, the CBN also issued draft guidelines for addressing Authorised Push Payment (APP) fraud, mandating a 14-day resolution period for customer complaints, including a 48-hour window for reimbursement.

The review of cash deposit thresholds is part of efforts by the apex financial regulatory institution to moderate the rising cost of cash management, address security concerns, and reduce money potential money laundering associated with the economy’s heavy reliance on cash.

The central bank pointed out that the cash deposit policies imposed over the years were in response to evolving circum- stances in cash management, aimed at reducing cash usage and encouraging accelerated adoption of other payment options, particularly electronic payment channels.

LASU VC,

However, the apex bank stated that with the effluxion of time, the need had arisen to streamline the provisions of these policies to reflect present-day realities.

The circular further stated that the special authorisation for withdrawal of N5 million and N10 million once monthly by individuals and corporates,

respectively, shall no longer apply.

The revised circular also stated that Automated Teller Machine (ATM) withdrawal limit shall be N100,000 daily (per customer), subject to a maximum of N500,000 weekly, adding that cash withdrawals from ATMs and point of sale devices are part of the weekly withdrawal

limit indicated therein.

The CBN also stated that excess cash withdrawal shall attract fees of three per cent and five per cent to individual and corporate customers, respec- tively, on the excess amount withdrawn.

The bank added that the fee shall be shared 40 per cent to the CBN and 60 per cent to the

Continues online bank or financial institution. In addition, the apex bank retained the limit on over-thecounter encashment of thirdparty cheques at ¥100,000, noting that any withdrawal under this section would form part of the cumulative weekly access to cash by account holders.

House Committee Blames DisCos for Nigeria’s Power Supply Collapse

The House of Representatives’ Ad Hoc Committee examining reforms and expenditures in Nigeria’s power sector from 2007 to 2024 has accused electricity distribution companies (DisCos) of undermining the national power system through chronic

underinvestment, stagnated network expansion, and failure to fulfill the commitments made in their original business plans.

During a public hearing yesterday, the Committee’s Chairman, Ibrahim Almustapha Aliyu, said many distribution companies misled the govern- ment during privatisation, by

Tunji Bello, Husband,

Receive UI Alumni Honours in Abuja

Sunday Ehigiator

The Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU), Pro- fessor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, and her husband, Hon. Tunji Bello, have been named among the distinguished recipients of the 2025 University of Ibadan Alumni Association (UIAA) Worldwide Honours and Awards. The award ceremony held yesterday in Abuja, was chaired by the Sultan of Sokoto, His

Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, CFR, mni. Other special honourees include the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, and the Secretary to the Govern- ment of the Federation, Senator GeorgeAccordingAkume. to a statement signed by Oluwaseun Gbanja, Media Aide to the LASU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olatunji-Bello was nominated for the prestigious ‘Worthy Ambassador’ Award in rec-

ognition of her “outstanding leadership, exceptional service, and significant contributions to academic excellence and institutional growth during her remarkable tenure as Vice Chancellor of LASU since 2021.”

The statement added that the award celebrates alumni “who exemplify purposeful leadership and have made impactful contributions to both national development and higher education in Nigeria.”

Her husband, Hon. Tunji Bello, was also honoured with the ‘Meritorious Service’ Award for his distinguished career in public service.

The citation highlights his notable roles as a former Lagos State Commissioner, former Secretary to the State Government, and current Chief Executive Officer and Executive Vice Chairman of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).

showcasing impressive business plans yet failing to deploy the funding needed to upgrade substations, transformers, and distribution lines more than a decade after taking control of the assets.

He expressed disbelief that although the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) claims it could transmit up to 8,000 megawatts, the DisCos still accept only around 4,000 megawatts due to infrastructure limitations a problem he said theyAliyucreated.said the firms have “refused to invest, refused to expand, and refused franchising options,” enabling widespread electricity theft, meter bypassing, and rising consumer frustration across the country.

“You are responsible for this situation because you failed to build on what you inherited.”

He explained: “For the past 13 or 14 years, if you had invested properly in substations, modern transformers, and updated network expansion, none of these issues would persist. You

would be taking more power, costs would be reduced, and Nigerians would be satisfied.”

He added that many consum- ers turn to illegal connections because they consistently receive monthly bills for electricity that is either not supplied or severely insufficient.

“How can someone continue paying when their bill matches their“Peoplesalary?will naturally seek other options. And your refusal to invest is a major factor fueling this widespread practice of bypassing and stealing electricity.”

Aliyu also reminded the distribution companies that some Nigerians enjoyed more reliable power under the defunct NEPA and expected far better service after private investors took over the sector.

He challenged the DisCos to explain why the financial strength and technical expertise they claimed during the privatisation process now contrast with their failure to meet tariff requirements, expand networks, and deliver the promised level of service.

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

L–R: Senate Majority Whip, Tahir Munguno; Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele; Deputy Senate Leader, Lola Abiru; President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio; Senate Committee Chairman on Appropriations, Adeola Olamilekan; and Deputy Senate Whip, Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, after plenary, yesterday

AFRICA HEALTH TECH CONFERENCE...

L–R: Chief Executive Officer/Founder, Drugstoc e-hub, Dr. Chibuzo Opara; President, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Pharm. Tanko Ayuba; NHIA Director, South West Zonal Office, Pharm. Olufemi Adeoye; Founder/Chief Executive Officer, Pharmaplus Nigeria Ltd., Pharm. Yakasai Ahmed; Head of Medical Services, AXA Mansard, Dr. Olamide Lawal; Head, Medical Operations, LASHMA, Dr. Olugbenga Fadipe; President/Co-founder, Drugstoc e-hub, Adham Yehia; at the just concluded AHEAD Africa Health Tech Conference organised by Drugstoc e-hub Ltd., held in Lagos, yesterday

Verheijen:

Tinubu’s Directives Driving Nigeria’s

Biggest Project-delivery Reforms in Decades

How BoI, NCDMB sealed pact on $100m NCIF equity investment scheme

oil and gas industry.

The Special Adviser to the President on Energy, Mrs Olu Verheijen, has declared that President Bola Tinubu’s Presidential Directives 41 and 42 have become the backbone of the country’s new investment competitiveness in the Nigerian

Speaking at the ongoing 14th Practical Nigerian Content (PNC) Forum in Yenagoa, Verheijen said the directives issued in February 2024, were designed to eliminate bottlenecks and restore investor confidence.

Also speaking at the same fo- rum, the Bank of Industry (BoI) disclosed how it partnered the Nigeria Content Monitoring and

Development Board (NCDMB) to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the $100 million Nigerian Content Intervention Fund (NCIF) equity investment scheme to support high-potential Nigerian compa- nies which was announced by the latter on Tuesday.

Speaking further, Verheijen told industry players that project economics in the oil and gas

upstream sector “must remain competitive, timelines must be credible, and capital must be deployed with confidence.”

She stated that local content was never meant to be an end in itself, but a means to delivering projects at scale, on schedule, and at competitive cost.

The presidential aide explained that the reforms, along with broader regulatory

Nigeria Disadvantaged as OPEC Approves New Oil Production Quota System

The Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and allies known as OPEC+ has approved changes to its oil production quota system, which will likely spark a wave of upstream investments among members, particularly in low- cost Gulf producers.

But countries like Nigeria, whose production is con- centrated in more expensive geological structures or offshore, may potentially be at a disadvantage as they will require more time and money in order to grow capacity.

OPEC and other major producing nations, includ- ing Russia and Kazakhstan, collectively known as OPEC+, approved at the weekend a new mechanism to assess members’ maximum production capacity, which will be used to set output baselines from 2027.

The capacity assessment will be done between January and September using a reputable U.S. auditor for 19 out of the 22 group members, Reuters re- ported. It will involve a review of each country’s oilfields and infrastructure to assess how much oil it can bring on stream within 90 days and maintain

for one year.

Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman said on Monday the new mechanism will help to stabilise markets and reward those who invest in production. OPEC+ accounts for nearly half of the world’s oil supply of 106 million barrels per day in 2025, according to the International Energy Agency.

Members’ capacities will be approved in a November meeting, where OPEC+ will also agree on its 2027 output quotas, which will represent an equal percentage of capacity for each member. The open Maximum Sustainable Capacity

At Zuma Film Festival, FG Hails

Nollywood’s Global Impact

The federal government has applauded Nollywood’s resilience and growing global influence as the 15th edition of the Zuma International Film Festival opened in Abuja.

In her opening remarks at the event, the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hanatu Musawa, described Nollywood as one of Nigeria’s strongest

symbols of innovation and creative disruption.

She said the industry’s transformation from Video Home System (VHS) tapes in the early 1990s to a billiondollar powerhouse continues to shape global conversations about African storytelling. Musawa commended the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) for attracting an

international jury, foreign directors and films, noting that the diversity of entries and participants reflects Nigeria’s expanding footprint in global cinema.

She stressed the need to document Nollywood’s evolution to preserve its legacy, warning that unrecorded achievements may be wrongly credited elsewhere.

(MSC) will be reviewed on an annual basis going forward, it was learnt.

Although the system appears primed to spark a wave of investments among members wanting to increase their own production and revenue, it nevertheless favours wealthy members that have low development and production costs such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait.

adjustments, helped Nigeria secure three of Africa’s four major Final Investment Decisions (FIDs) in 2024.

“The combined reforms introduced over the last two years propelled us into the top quartile among 14 comparable global jurisdictions,” she stated.

Verheijen emphasised that the directives were crafted from a data-driven benchmarking process that identified where project costs were being inflated.

“Our task was to design a system that eliminates rent- seeking while preserving the true meaning of local content—empowering Nigerian talent and enabling indigenous enterprise,” she noted.

She warned that the pursuit of 70 percent in-country value retention must not become a tick-box exercise.

“It must consistently deliver tangible value to industry, host communities, and the wider economy,” she said.

Highlighting Nigeria’s local content gains, she pointed to fabrication yards such as SHI- MCI, free zones like LADOL,

and modular refining efforts like Waltersmith.

“These indicators testify to what Nigerians can accomplish when given opportunity,” she said, adding that each new facility “translates into livelihoods transformed—jobs created, incomes expanded, and communities uplifted,” she said.

With Shell’s Bonga North project, TotalEnergies’ Ubeta gas development, and the HI gas project all advancing, she insisted this was the moment to entrench efficiency.

“As Nigeria enters a new cycle of upstream investment, we must strengthen local content as a catalyst for smooth and timely project delivery,” she said.

Verheijen reaffirmed Nigeria’s 2030 production targets of three million barrels per day of crude and 10 billion standard cubic feet per day of gas, stressing that regulators must evolve.

“Regulators must shed legacy mindsets and act as enablers of speed, clarity, and efficiency,” she declared. Continues online

African Oil Regulators Pick Nigeria as Headquarters, Elect Komolafe Chair

African Petroleum Regula- tors Forum (AFRIPERF), a group of oil and gas regulators on the continent, has unanimously adopted Nigeria as its official head- quarters. AFRIPERF also elected Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Gbenga Komolafe, as its Chairman.

The decision was announced at the inaugural

executive committee meeting of the forum, which took place virtually on December 2, a statement by Head, Media and Strategic Communication at NUPRC, Eniola Akinkuotu, said.

According to the state- ment released in Abuja, prior to the endorsement, Komolafe was interim chairman of AFRIPERF.

Besides, Ndiyo-AiyetanEyoanwan emerged as Secretary of AFRIPERF.

The development affirms Nigeria’s central role in

the African petroleum regulatory space and as Africa’s largest producer of crude oil. The meeting, which was attended by 16 African countries, was convened to pick its leadership, headquarters and logo.

In his opening remarks, Komolafe highlighted the need for a strong execu- tive committee, to drive initiatives that promote investment as well as streamline regulations on the African continent.

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Peter Uzoho, Oluchi Chibuzor in Lagos and Blessing Ibunge in Yenagoa

DAPO ABIODUN PRESENTS BUDGET OF SUSTAINABLE LEGACY...

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, presenting the 2026 Appropriation Bill titled “Budget of Sustainable Legacy,” before members of the Ogun State House of Assembly, on Wednesday

Report: Green Economy Expected to Surpass $7tn in Annual Value by 2030

Prices of solar PVs fall 90% in 15 years IEA says $23bn needed annually

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The global green economy has surpassed $5 trillion and is projected to exceed $7 trillion annually by 2030, creating an abundance of growth opportunities for businesses worldwide, a new report by the World Economic Forum (WEF) has stated.

The report revealed that green revenues are growing twice as fast as conventional revenues on average, while companies involved in green markets often secure cheaper capital and typically enjoy valuation premiums.

With green markets moving at different speeds, mature solutions such as solar, wind, batteries and electric vehicles, it said, are achieving cost competitiveness at the global level. But it stressed that costly technologies such as low-carbon hydrogen and carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) require

substantial support to bend the cost curve.

The report: “Multi-Trillion- Dollar Market: A CEO Guide to Growth in the Green Economy,” developed in collaboration with the Boston Consulting Group, indicated that despite economic uncertainty and diverging environments, investment in green technologies continues to reach record highs.

The report identified the green economy as one of the world’s fastest growing sectors, outpaced only by tech, and highlighted the advantages enjoyed by many companies embracing green solutions.

“Two years ago, in the World Economic Forum’s Winning in Green Markets: Scaling Products for a Net Zero World, we argued that pioneering in green markets is a bet that would pay off and that large-scale green markets would become a reality prov- ing the business case.

“Despite the current headwinds for global climate action, this report shows that the green economy is not a distant opportunity but already a major growth engine of this decade,” said Pim Valdre, Head of Climate and Nature Economy of WEF. The research showed that

companies with green revenues often outperform across multiple financial metrics. On average, green revenues grow two times faster than conventional business lines across the market, while the cost of capital for companies with green revenues is typically lower, it said.

Firms generating more than 50 per cent of their revenues from green markets often enjoy valuation premiums of 12 per cent to 15 per cent on capital markets, it stated, reflecting investor confidence in their long-term resilience and profitability.

“Technological cost declines

have accelerated this trend, although solutions are mov- ing at different speeds across markets. Since 2010, the cost of solar photovoltaics and lithium batteries has fallen by around 90 per cent and offshore wind by 50 per cent, making low-carbon solutions increasingly cost competitive.

NERC Threatens to Sanction Discos over Slow Metering Penetration

Says over 700,000 devices available nationwide

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has threatened to sanction electricity Distribution Companies (Discos) over the slow rate of deployment of meters nationwide, especially under the Metering Asset Provider (MAP) scheme.

Tinubu: No Nation Can Rise Beyond Quality of its Engineering Profession

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

President Bola Tinubu yesterday commended Nigerian Society of Engi- neers (NSE) for upholding professional and ethical standards of engineering practice in the country, stating that no nation can rise beyond the quality of its engineering profession. Tinubu said this at the opening ceremony of the 2025 Nigerian Society of Engineers International Conference, Exhibition and

Annual General Meeting, held in Ibadan, the Oyo StateTinubu,capital.represented by Minister of State for Works, Hon. Bello Goroyo, said NSE had remained a strong pillar, providing direction, training, advocacy, and quality assurance to the engineering ecosystem in the country. He maintained that the success of many national infrastructural projects was tied to the tireless work of Nigerian engineers, both at

home and in the diaspora.

The president said the theme of this year’s conference, “Engineering Innovation for a Sustainable Blue Economy in Nigeria,” could not have come at a better time, as his administration intensified efforts to reposition Nigeria’s infrastructure landscape.

He said, “Our administration has placed engineering innovation and infrastructure renewal at the centre of our national transformation agenda.

NERC’s Vice Chairman, Dr. Musiliu Oseni, handed down the warning when he delivered a message at the opening of the 4th Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) Stakeholders Meeting in Abuja, marking his final NESI meeting in that capacity.

Addressing regulators, operators, and stakeholders, Oseni touched on critical “crossroads” for the sector, stressing that with the transition to State Electricity Regulatory

Commissions (SERCs) in full swing, “No licensee is bigger than their regulator.”

Oseni also revealed that there are currently 600,000 to 700,000 meters available in the country. He challenged utilities to improve publicity and rollout speed, noting that the government has made the investment so the Discos need to step up.

Reacting to a report that some Discos have only achieved 2 per cent perfor-

mance on MAP meter refunds to customers, Oseni, the commission said, issued a stern warning regarding financial penalties: “This would be met with necessary sanctions.” he was quoted as saying. Besides, the outgoing vice chairman of NERC proposed a direct enforcement mechanism utilising the wholesale market structure. “You still have your Operational Expendi- ture (OPEX) at the national wholesale market level.

Federal Lawmaker Reaffirms Senate’s Support for Tinubu’s ‘Nigeria First’ Policy

Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa

The Chairman, Senate Committee on Local Content, Senator Thomas Joel-Onowakpo, has reaffirmed his committee’s support for President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to the ‘Nigeria First’ policy. He stated that the policy will ensure the empowerment of Nigerian workers, the expansion of decent job opportunities,

and the localisation of economic benefits across the oil and gas, science, engineering, and broader industrial sectors.

Joel-Onowakpo made the observation in his address presented at the 14th Annual Practical Nigerian Content (PNC) Forum, held in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, saying that the theme of this year’s gathering “Securing Investments, Strengthening Local Content, and Scaling Energy

Production” could not have come at a more critical time. He noted that as the legislative oversight body driving compliance with the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act, Executive Order No. 5 and the Nigeria First Policy, they were intensifying efforts to ensure that Nigerians are not bystanders but key players and beneficiaries in their own economy.

FEaturEs Beyond Bureaucracy: Overhauling the Civil Service for a New Era

Kuni Tyessi writes that the Nigerian civil service, like other sectors, is in need of reforms, particularly in areas that will address the rot within and change the status quo from red tape to positive results

Like a lone voice in the wilderness, Dr. Goke Adegoroye, former pioneer Director-General and retired Permanent Secretary of the Bureau for Public Service Reforms (BPSR), and past Permanent Secretary at the Federal Ministries of Education, Interior and the FCT, has relentlessly continued to sermonise and advocate reforms in the civil service structure and practice in Nigeria.

This can be noted in his books, more so in his recently published piece of 420 pages titled “Leadership in the Nigerian Civil Service: Five Decades of Lessons in Performance, Encounters and Triumphs.”

With 50 years’ experience in the civil service, he opines that in the service delivery of this critical sector of the arm of government, sitting forlorn with folded hands after 15 years of retirement is akin to caring less in a situation whereby a house of numerous treasures is burning while a member or stakeholder looks on unperturbed — a condition he says, if allowed to continue, has the capacity for massive destruction in terms of executive pronouncements, and the aftermath of such can be irretrievable or will take the stance of the Israelites’ wilderness journey to effect corrections.

In a clear and simple style, which can be said to be deliberate for the purpose of better understanding even by the everyday people on the street, Adegoroye, in his chronicles backed with pictures and dates to serve as evidence of his claims, observes that the challenges and inadequacies experienced during his years of active service in the sector have not only thrived but have exacerbated and are in need of urgent attention, with a possibility of an overhaul.

In his interaction with friends and the media during a reading of his book after the public presentation in Abuja, Adegoroye, who centred his themes on corruption, indiscipline, optimism, incompetence and bad leadership amongst others, as well as the subject matter of Nigeria’s civil service and the diseases therein, said the new publication is a personal attempt to boldly confront the embarrassing and unfortunate situations. He believes that real-life examples used in stating the effectiveness of the civil service will spur emerging leaders and will prick the conscience of political stakeholders to appreciate why effective and efficient civil service is the cornerstone of achieving developmental vision.

In his passionate plea for change, the author, in giving further explanation behind his chosen themes, says: “At the same time, it is also an opportunity and call to heal the wounds of those that have been surcharged by the system and inspire hope to those still committed to integrity, that the system will one day recognise them.

“Finally, it is to tell those who have taken advantage of the system that nothing is hidden and that the day of reckoning will come.”

He eulogises several Heads of Service for their commitment but however opines that the chief civil servants could not, and cannot, do it alone without the involvement

of the President and Commanderin-Chief of the Federal Republic, whose title as “Chief Executive of the Federation” says it all. He posits that after the creation of laws and their interpretation by the legislative and judicial arms of government respectively, the executive, which carries out the functions of which the majority of civil servants fall under, needs the deliberate involvement of the President, and this can only be possible if he is knowledgeable of what truly exists beyond what has been reported to him.

He says: “Yet, the change lies with the President by his first title as Chief Executive of the Federation and number one bureaucrat. The current Head of the Civil Service is making efforts and applying the rules, but how far is she succeeding? How can she reposition

the service from the blind side of the President, and realising that it is proactiveness to positive initiative and not an admittance of failure?”

Adegoroye goes from one who knows and understands the challenges of the civil service to one who seems to have fallen into a trance and therefore begins to ask rhetorical questions. He might also have the answers to the questions he poses for his readers, but probably to encourage deep thinking and the birth of formidable answers, he further bares his mind and brings the questions to the fore.

Also, the questions serve as a template on which action should be taken by the present Head of the Civil Service and, more importantly, the President of the nation. He says: “How can we enthrone a merit-driven public service when not just the

body language, but open directives of our principals, are driven by political patronage?”

Secondly, with public sector corruption becoming the oxygen of politics in Nigeria, how can civil servants be emboldened to uphold public trust?

Additionally, what can we say about the plight in retirement of public servants who, in their service years, served with integrity? A classic case is the failure of the pension policy. How do we ensure that such failures do not shape the behaviour or values of those still in the service?

He goes ahead to advocate for the naming and shaming of government officials who go to the extent of abusing the confidence and trust reposed in them by the system. He is of the opinion that rather than leave them to karma, which might never come, and thereby serve as an encouraging factor for more corruption and ineptitude in the civil service, naming and shaming with proper documentation will serve as deterrent moving forward. While pushing for this, he again spices the call with another deep question.

He says: “Talk about the possibility of a family tree and the idea of naming and shaming corrupt public officers in the civil service and inspire others to uphold public trust and protect national interest. How do we make career public servants appreciate public service as a sacred duty, as moral obligation to serve the country good and commitment to uphold the interest of the citizens and the nation?”

Again, for the sake of emphasis and an unconscious proof of the restlessness camped in his mind about the trajectory of the Nigerian civil service, Adegoroye re-emphasises the need for the President to take a close look at the activities of one of the sectors of the driving force of his administration. He says: “It’s up to the President to uphold and deploy the necessary political will, to improve and recommend the implementation of the pieces of advice in the book. The onus of reforming the civil service is on the President. A people get the government that it deserves, and in the real sense of that, a President can get the civil service that he deserves.”

With the climax of his work taking centre stage on the need for integrity, competence and nationhood, Adegoroye comes to a denouement with words which are expected to keep reverberating until the needful reforms are done in the nation’s civil service system. He says: “The civil service and the judiciary have become the citizens’ last defences to uphold public trust. Capacity, competence and professionalism are needed, but only if we can demonstrate the courage to make integrity a defining factor in the selection of leaders in the public service, can we begin to see commitment in the service as a sacred duty.”

Adegoroye, like every well-meaning Nigerian, looks forward to the prescribed positive change. When and how this will happen is entrenched in the future, and only time can tell.

Dr. Goke's work on Leadership in the Nigerian Civil Service

Senator Daisy Danjuma, EdoBEST 2.0, and Itohan Girls Grammar School Rebirth, a Promise Kept

Joan Osa Oviawe, PhD

Across Edo State, the eight years that His Excellency, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, held sway as Governor, were marked by a decisive and far-reaching transformation in public education. Through deliberate reforms, strengthened governance structures, and a relentless commitment to restoring public confidence, the Obaseki administration reshaped teaching, learning, and school management across the State, laying the foundation for sustainable progress.

Central to these gains was the EdoBEST 2.0, the second phase of the state-wide transformation of education in Edo, which elevated teaching quality, improved accountability, and restored pride in public schools. One of the most remarkable outcomes of this audacious Edobest 2.0 was the revitalization of Itohan Girls Grammar School, made possible through the exceptional generosity of Senator Daisy Danjuma and her husband, Gen. TY Danjuma (Rtd).

The Danjumas’ investment of over ₦1 billion in the renovation and expansion of the school reflects both a deep personal commitment and a powerful legacy of service. It continues the Ehanire family’s longstanding contribution to education in Edo State. Senator Danjuma’s father, Chief Ighodaro Ehanire, was a pioneering educationist who founded Edugie Secondary School in 1958. The school was later renamed Itohan Girls Grammar School in honor of his sister, Mrs. Itohan Ehanire Rotimi, a devoted teacher who taught at both Itohan Girls and Imaguero Girls Secondary School. Mrs. Rotimi was widely remembered for her discipline, compassion, and dedication to young girls’ learning and development. During the civil war, Chief Ehanire and his family sheltered and protected non-indigene female teachers and students in Benin City, leaving behind a legacy of courage and humanity that continues to inspire.

In a conversation I had with Senator Daisy Danjuma, she reflected on how deeply personal the project was for her. When she visited the school, she saw firsthand the improvements already underway through the EdoBEST 2.0. The restored discipline among students, improved learning outcomes, and efforts to address the decades-old erosion problem that had threatened the grounds deeply impressed her. What she witnessed moved her to act, transforming family memory into public legacy.

Even before the renovation, Itohan Girls Grammar School had become one of the most sought-after government schools in Benin City. This was a direct outcome of the EdoBEST 2.0 reforms that elevated teaching, learning, and school culture across the State. One message I received from a parent in 2023 captured this shift in public perception.

It was a WhatsApp Message about Itohan Girls Grammar School Admission

from a parent, Elder Kingsley (last name redacted) on Friday, 8th Sep 2023, at 4:02 pm. It reads: “Good evening, my amiable commissioner.

I'm thanking God for what he is using you to achieve in the educational sector. My amiable commissioner, based on your transformation in the educational sector, I'm withdrawing my daughter from a private school to a public school.

“We've gone to ITOHAN Girls Secondary School for the admission and they're telling me what I don't understand. They said I should come after the school's resumption and I don't want to be denied admission because that was what happened the last session when I went to Idia College. That is why I'm asking for your assistance with the admission, because we just relocated to Sapele Road. I believe God will use you for my good. Thanks for your understanding.”

I had never met this parent before. However, because my phone number was publicly available to teachers, parents, and the general public, messages like these were not uncommon. They reflected the growing public confidence in Edo’s education system at the time. Government

(Irrua Technical College), Chief Dan Orbih (Ogbona Secondary School), Gen. Cecil Esekhaigbe (Rtd) (ACC Irrua), and Mr. Jefferson Uwoghiren, Esq. (Niger College).

Former Governor Lucky Igbinedion supported Edo College, while Diaspora professionals such as Mrs. Joan Egwuonwu, a Senior Policy Analyst with the Canadian Government, led major school improvements in Ogbona Secondary School in Etsako Central LGA. Members of the State Executive Council, including the then Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Wole Iyamu, SAN (Edo College SMB), also volunteered to serve on the School Management Boards of various government secondary schools in the State.

While the government maintained a focus on improving learning outcomes, it also worked tirelessly to address the large inventory of dilapidated schools inherited from past administrations. This ensured that the reform process prioritized both academic quality and infrastructural renewal.

The spirit of EdoBEST 2.0 inspired many others to give back. Alumni associations, including several in the Diaspora, mobilized impressive resources. The ACC Irrua Alumni Association (ACCIOBA), led by Dr. Ohens in California, raised over ₦1 billion to revive their alma mater. Similarly, alumni of Benin Technical College contributed significantly to upgrading facilities and providing modern equipment to support technical and vocational learning.

schools that were once avoided were now oversubscribed because of the visible gains achieved through EdoBEST 2.0. With Itohan Girls Grammar School now fully modernized, the demand is expected to grow even further. It is therefore important that the school and its School Management Board continue to uphold quality while remaining favorably disposed to access, ensuring that excellence and inclusion grow together.

Under Governor Obaseki’s leadership, more than 250 distinguished Edo sons and daughters, along with several non-Edo volunteers, were inaugurated in 2022 as members of School Management Boards (SMBs) across rural and urban secondary and TVET schools in the State to improve school oversight and strengthen governance. They represented a diverse cross-section of professionals united by the goal of advancing public education. Among them were Dr. Asue Ighodalo, Esq. (Idia College), Senator Ehigie Uzamere and Engr. Chris Ogiemwonyi (Western Boys), Mrs. Adesuwa Oyenokwe (Idia College), Mr. Mike Osime

The renovation of Itohan Girls Grammar School began during Governor Obaseki’s tenure and was completed after he left office, underscoring the importance of continuity in governance. It demonstrates how reforms rooted in institutional strength can outlast political transitions and cycles, and remain anchored in service delivery.

It is crucial that the gains of the past few years are consolidated and expanded by the new administration. The government must continue to open opportunities for citizens, alumni, and corporate organizations to contribute meaningfully to education. Sustained progress depends on continuity, collaboration, and the shared belief that every child deserves access to quality learning in a safe and supportive environment.

The renovation of Itohan Girls Grammar School by Senator Daisy and Gen. TY Danjuma (Rtd) stands as a shining example of what is possible when vision and compassion come together. Their generosity honors a family legacy rooted in education, uplifts a new generation of Edo girls, and reminds us that meaningful reform endures when citizens and government work together for the common good.

*A promise was made.*

*A promise was kept.*

•Oviawe was a Edo State commissioner of Education under H.E. Godwin Obaseki.

s enator Daisy Danjuma

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BLUEPRINT FOR SPEEDY ‘MORE’ AGENDA

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Adaobi Amelia Ozigbo, a clinician, offers fresh perspective for a stronger health system, writes PAT ONUKWULI

A GUIDE FOR SMARTER HEALTH POLICY

Delta State’s 2016 budget promises to do more infrastructure to drive growth, and more reforms for efficiency, writes MELVIN EJOGBAMU INTERNAL

IBRAHIM

Nigeria’s healthcare system now teeters on the brink, caught between rising demand and an overstretched reality. It is where urgency meets uncertainty, positioned between what it must become and what it can no longer afford to remain. On one side is a growing population with increasingly complex medical needs. On the other hand, public health infrastructure is stretched by chronic underfunding, fragmented implementation, and long-standing gaps in accountability.

The consequences are evident in the nation’s sobering health indicators. Maternal mortality remains among the highest globally at about 512 deaths per 100,000 live births. Only around 43 per cent of primary healthcare centres are fully operational, and national health expenditure has remained around 3.7 per cent of the budget, significantly below the 15 per cent commitment made in the 2001 Abuja Declaration. These realities highlight a national dilemma that has endured despite decades of discussions on financing and reforms. As a familiar Nigerian expression suggests, the remedy is often already in the room, waiting only for the courage and clarity to recognise it.

Amid this challenge, there is a valuable example in the work and training of Dr. Adaobi Amelia Ozigbo, a clinician educated in Nigeria who now advances public health practice and analysis in the United States. Her journey, from long clinical days at the Federal Medical Centre in Jabi, Abuja, to specialised work in health systems, children’s behavioural health policy, and Medicaid oversight in New York and New Jersey, provides a varied perspective from which Nigeria might reconsider its approach to health policy.

Her grounding was entirely Nigerian and shaped by realities familiar to clinicians nationwide. She trained at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University and completed rotations in surgery, paediatrics, obstetrics and gynaecology, internal medicine, and emergency care, with each experience reinforcing the practical truth that Nigerian medical interns need to develop both breadth and adaptability. As she progressed through these postings, she encountered the usual pressures and improvisations that characterise clinical practice in resource-limited environments, observing how each stage of training demands more ingenuity than infrastructure.

At the Federal Medical Centre in Jabi, she experienced firsthand the ongoing

impact of systemic shortcomings. Clinics faced resource shortages, staff handled overwhelming caseloads, and patients arrived late, not out of apathy but because the health system provided little assurance that early engagement would result in timely, affordable, or sufficient care. These conditions sharpened clinicians’ problem-solving skills while also exposing the limits of resilience as a national health strategy. Such environments were not acceptable norms; instead, they were a clear sign that comprehensive reform was long overdue.

Dr. Ozigbo’s subsequent training in the United States introduced her to the structural discipline that underpins more functional health systems. At the University at Albany, where she pursued a Master of Public Health with a specialisation in Health Policy and Management, she encountered a policy environment organised around clarity, measurement, and enforceability. Her fellowship at the New York State Office of Mental Health placed her within the oversight architecture of Medicaid Managed Care. This system demands rigorous compliance with standards governing children’s behavioural health. In this environment, the strength of a policy is determined not by its eloquence but by its enforceability. Evaluation, reporting, and monitoring are routine, not optional. Data is the foundation upon which decisions are made, rather than a late addition to justify predetermined choices.

Her analytical work sharpened her convictions, and it is from this body of experience that she offers a set of clear recommendations for Nigeria’s reform agenda. Through literature reviews, quality improvement projects, epidemiological analyses, and studies on disparities in maternal and child health, behavioural health, climate-

related illnesses, and HIV care, she reached a key conclusion: effective health systems do not speculate. They measure, interpret, and adjust in real time. Nigeria’s challenges with low immunisation coverage, increasing non-communicable diseases, high maternal mortality, and poor child health outcomes cannot be addressed without reliable, routine data systems. One in five children remains under-immunised, thousands of health workers leave each year, and fewer than 300 psychiatrists serve more than 200 million people. These realities, she argues, highlight the need for structural reform rather than piecemeal solutions.

It is this blending of Nigerian frontline experience and American systems thinking that shapes what Dr Ozigbo herself increasingly describes as a blueprint for smarter health policy in Nigeria. She does not advocate copying the American model but instead urges adopting principles that reliably strengthen health systems across diverse contexts. In her view, policies must be regarded as firm commitments rather than rhetorical aspirations. Decisions must be grounded in dependable data.

According to Dr. Ozigbo, communitybased primary care should be reinstated as the cornerstone of national service delivery. Workforce retention should be treated as a strategic priority, requiring improved professional pathways, better working conditions, and predictable career development. Mental health, particularly for children and adolescents, must be incorporated into routine medical care and financing models, reflecting both the rising burden of behavioural health needs and the scarcity of specialists available to address them.

In Greek mythology, Sisyphus was condemned to push a boulder uphill only for it to roll back down each time he neared the summit. Dr. Ozigbo often draws on this allegory to emphasise that Nigeria’s health sector must avoid reforms that mirror such futile labour, where progress repeatedly collapses because the foundations beneath it remain unchanged. Real reform, she argues, must secure the boulder firmly in place. It must ensure that gains already achieved are preserved and that each subsequent effort builds on the last with greater stability and purpose.

Dr. Onukwuli, is a legal scholar and public affairs analyst. patonukwuli2003@yahoo.co.uk

Delta State’s 2016 budget promises to do more infrastructure to drive growth, and more reforms for efficiency, writes MELVIN EJOGBAMU

BLUEPRINT FOR SPEEDY ‘MORE’ AGENDA

Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, is committed to doing more for Deltans as he last week served ample notice of his fiscal ambition and developmental zeal, at least for the next one year.

Oborevwori, last Wednesday presented the 2026 Appropriation Bill to the State House of Assembly, laying out a blueprint for an accelerated progress under his administration's MORE Agenda.

Aptly christened the “Budget of Accelerating the MORE Agenda,” the N1.664 trillion fiscal plan marks a pivotal moment in Delta’s governance, underscoring Oborevwori’s unwavering commitment to transformative infrastructure, human capital development, and inclusive growth for the state.

With an unprecedented 70 percent allocation to capital projects—amounting to N1.165 trillion—this budget not only eclipses the 2025 appropriation by a staggering 70 percent in capital spending but also signals a bold shift toward long-term investments that promise to reshape the state's socio-economic landscape.

The presentation, conducted in the hallowed chambers of the State Assembly Complex in Asaba, was a constitutional ritual pursuant to Section 121 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). Yet, it transcended mere formality, it was rather an undeniable testament of hope amid Nigeria's evolving economic recovery. Governor Oborevwori, drawing from projections of a 3.9 percent national GDP growth in 2026, painted a picture of optimism fueled by rising oil revenues, stabilizing fiscal policies, tax reforms, and concerted federal initiatives against insecurity. These national tailwinds, he argued, provide the perfect backdrop for Delta to surge ahead, fostering inclusive and sustainable growth while minimizing debt and optimizing resource management.

As already known, the MORE Agenda— an acronym for Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security—has been the guiding mantra of Oborevwori's tenure since assuming office in May, 2023. Launched as a covenant with Deltans, it emphasizes tangible progress in infrastructure, education, health, agriculture, and social welfare. The 2026 budget’s christening as the “Budget of Accelerating the MORE Agenda” should not be seen as a mere nomenclature; rather it actually encapsulates the administration’s intent to build on early successes which have been recorded and propel the state into a new era of prosperity.

By dedicating 70 percent to capital expenditure, Oborevwori is effectively doubling down on this agenda, prioritizing bricks-and-mortar projects over routine operational costs. The allocation ratio— N499 billion (30 percent) for recurrent expenditure versus N1.165 trillion for capital—represents a strategic pivot, ensuring that the bulk of resources fuels

visible, enduring developments rather than short-term sustenance.

This capital-heavy approach signifies a profound determination to “do MORE” in every sense. In a state rich in natural resources yet grappling with underdevelopment challenges, such a focus promises to bridge gaps that have long hindered progress. It aligns seamlessly with the MORE Agenda’s pillars: accelerating infrastructure renewal to connect communities, enhancing human capital through education and health investments, fostering social cohesion via poverty alleviation programs, and bolstering security for a stable environment conducive to growth.

Critics might argue that recurrent spending, at 30 percent, could strain administrative functions, but Oborevwori’s projections account for inflationary pressures and worker welfare, with personnel costs pegged at N185 billion, overheads at N204 billion, and social contributions at N110 billion. This balanced restraint underscores fiscal prudence, allowing capital injections to drive multiplier effects—job creation, economic stimulation, and improved quality of life.

Delving into revenue projections, the budget anticipates a robust influx, reflecting both national reforms and state-level innovations. Statutory allocations, including mineral derivation, are forecasted at N720 billion, comprising 43.28 percent of total revenue and marking a 23.75 percent increase from 2025. This surge stems largely from the fuel subsidy removal, which has bolstered federal disbursements to oil-producing states like Delta. Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) is set to soar to N250 billion, an 86.5 percent jump, thanks to professionalized collection mechanisms and an expanded tax base. VAT remittances are projected at N120 billion, benefiting from enhanced national administration, while capital receipts are conservatively limited to N25 billion to uphold a zero-borrowing stance—a hallmark of Oborevwori’s debtaverse philosophy.

Rounding out the revenue mix, N489 billion from savings and oil revenue recoveries highlights the administration’s emphasis on fiscal discipline, turning past efficiencies into future investments.

Ejogbamu, a Quantity Surveyor and Fiscal Responsibility Advocate, writes from Asaba, Delta State

IBRAHIM M. IDRIS argues the need to save the state from dangerous politics

INTERNAL SECURITY IN KANO

I offer my conflict of interest upfront: I am unapologetically pro-NNPP. But my argument here is not a partisan plea. It is a warning rooted in patriotism. Nigeria is sliding toward a troubling security future, and the danger grows when politics eclipses the Constitution. Since the return to democratic rule in 1999, Nigeria has endured a relentless cycle of crises. They came in all sorts and forms be it ethnic clashes, sectarian violence, or regional militias challenging the legitimacy of the state. From the rise of the OPC in the Southwest to resource militancy in the Niger Delta and separatist agitations in the Southeast, every region has known conflict. At one point, dreaded Boko Haram controlled territory in the Northeast the size of Belgium! Yes, you have heard me right. It was that bad. And just as Nigeria began to push back the jihadist insurgency, another menace emerged. What began as banditry in remote part of Zamfara State has metastasized across the Northwest and is now creeping into the North-Central region. International observers, sometimes misunderstanding the complexity, have packaged these attacks under an alarming narrative of “Christian genocide.” Meanwhile, several gallant officers have paid the ultimate price defending a nation that has struggled to defend itself.

Amid this deepening insecurity, Nigeria urgently needs coherence, coordination, and constitutional clarity. This requires genuine partnership between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the governors, who bear frontline responsibility for the safety of their citizens. Security is not achieved through boots, bullets, or bravado alone. It demands structure, legitimacy, and respect for the rule of law. Yet today, politics, particularly in Kano, is undermining that structure. A disturbing example came recently from Umar Abdullahi Ganduje, former governor of Kano and former APC national chairman. He was heard boasting publicly about creating 12,000 militia members from retrenched Hisbah personnel. That declaration is not merely reckless; it is unconstitutional and dangerous. At a time when bandits are testing the borders of Kano; especially in the northern part bordering Katsina State, Ganduje’s own senatorial zone- his proposal echoes the dark prelude to Boko Haram’s rise, when non-state armed groups were first romanticized by politicians.

In any functioning democracy, such a statement by Ganduje would trigger an investigation or even prosecution. Instead, the federal government looks away as Ganduje indulges his political resentments and personal vendetta. It is no secret that his bitterness stems from losing decisively to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf. But when private grudges translate into paramilitary fantasies, the entire nation is put at risk. This is not just a political skirmish; it is a constitutional one. Nigeria’s Constitution never envisioned a scenario where governors, the legally recognized

heads of the State Security Council, would be undermined by rival politicians emboldened by federal favoritism. A governor cannot protect lives, coordinate internal security, or be held accountable by citizens when parallel power structures operate with tacit federal blessing.

Unfortunately, even Senator Barau Jibrin, who should understand the weight of federal responsibility in national security, chooses instead to weaponize the crisis. Rather than working with President Tinubu and Governor Abba to secure the state’s borders, he fuels unnecessary political hostility, hoping insecurity will be blamed on the state government. But Nigerians know better. Who controls the police, the DSS, the military, the immigration service, the NSCDC, and the prisons? The federal government. If security fails, it fails from the top. The largest pie goes the federal.

To his credit, Governor Abba has responded responsibly, providing operational vehicles, strengthening joint task force, and allocating billions of naira to improve security infrastructure. But no governor can succeed when political actors insist on playing commander without constitutional authority, instruments of state, or even basic accountability. Perhaps the most disturbing sign of political sabotage is the federal-level protection extended to the deposed 15th Emir of Kano. Hundreds of police officers, whose presence is desperately needed in vulnerable border communities like Tsanyawa, are instead deployed to guard an ousted traditional ruler illegally occupying a government property. Citizens facing banditry are left exposed, while political patronage enjoys full federal security backing.

Nigeria cannot afford this disorder. When politics begins to supersede the Constitution, insecurity thrives. President Tinubu must intervene not as the leader of the APC, but as the custodian of the Nigerian state. He must reaffirm that the Constitution, not personal loyalties or political calculations, guides internal security. And he must ensure that governors, regardless of party, can perform the duties the Constitution assigns to them. Because in the end, insecurity does not care about party lines. It respects only power vacuums, and Nigeria has created too many.

Idris writes from Kano. He can be reached via muazamusa@yahoo.com

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

ISSUES IN SOCIAL INVESTMENT PROGRAMMES

Government should do more to make the safety nets impactful

Despite several intervention measures to cushion vulnerable families, the impact remains negligible, largely because too few households are covered amid poor funding, and leaks to nonpoor beneficiaries. The World Bank in its latest report titled, ‘The State of Social Safety Nets in Nigeria’, noted that 56 per cent of beneficiaries of government safety net programmes are poor, yet only 44 per cent of the total benefits actually reach poor households. “Nigeria’s safety nets, at their current funding level and implementation pattern, are too small, too narrow, and too diluted to meaningfully reduce extreme poverty,” according to the report.

To make the programmes impactful, the world foremost financial institution suggests increased overall spending on safety nets, expansion of the coverage to reach more of the 100 million extreme poor Nigerians in addition to raising the benefits significantly from the current N5000 to a N20,000 monthly cash-transfer. This, it stated could lift up to 13.9 million people out of poverty, arguing that the programme be treated as a crucial investment rather than a temporary palliative.

Food is expensive. Nigeria is battling the highest prevalence of severe malnutrition in Africa, with about two million children being affected

As of April 2023, the Federal Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning estimated that the national social register had about 50 million beneficiaries, representing 38 per cent of the 133 million Nigerians that were multidimensionally poor as of 2022. However, while the population is on the increase, the number on the list is decreasing. As it is, many people are left behind, perhaps partly accounting for high insecurity in the country. Meanwhile, the programmes have been criticised for making little or no difference in the life of the people they are meant to impact. Indeed, despite the poor attention to social protection services, many have accused those implementing the programmes of not being transparent, and of diverting some of the resources to personal use.

For years, various administrations have been making efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s social protection system and reduce the acute level of poverty across the country. In 2016, the federal government established the National Social Investment Programmes (NSIP) to tackle poverty and hunger across the country. The programmes under the NSIP focus on ensuring a more equitable distribution of resources to vulnerable populations, including children, youth and women. The Household Uplifting Programme (HUP), which has the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) as its flagship intervention, is designed to provide targeted financial transfers to poor households under an expanded national social safety nets system. Those enrolled in the programme benefit from monthly grants of N5,000 to aid consumption, and ensure survival in the household.

EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU

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Letters

to the Editor

Last week, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Bernard Doro said the federal government was strengthening Nigeria’s social protection, under the renewed hope agenda programmes such as Conditional Cash Transfers, the Grant for Vulnerable Groups, N-Power, GEEP, Home-Grown School Feeding, and the National Social Safety-Net Coordination. “Over 19.7 million households are verified in the national social register,” he said “with 5.5 million benefiting from cash transfers. Microcredit schemes have also reached more than 5 million Nigerians across all local government areas.”

In addition, the ministry recently completed the Skill-to-Wealth Programme, which trained unemployed youths in solar installation, greenhouse agriculture, and automobile engineering. Unfortunately, these are hardly making any dent on the prevalence of extreme poverty. Food is expensive. Nigeria is battling the highest prevalence of severe malnutrition in Africa, with about two million children being affected. Likewise, millions cannot afford to access healthcare. Clearly, the enormity of the task for addressing poverty and our human capital indices cannot be underestimated. But we also agree that the social interventions must be sustained and scaled up to make meaningful impact in the lives of the poor. It may reduce to cost of funding security.

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

STEMMING NIGERIA'S LINGERING SECURITY CHALLENGES

Our government's use of multi-pronged approaches in tackling Nigeria's security challenges will yield no positive results unless and until sub-national governments are constitutionally empowered to have their own state police forces. The government's execution of measures other than establishing state police will scratch the surface of the problem.

Swathes of northern states have become ungovernable spaces, what with bandits, terrorists, and Boko Haram insurgents killing people and abducting school children. The spike in the perpetration of acts of banditry and terrorism may be a corollary of the designation of Nigeria as a country of special concern by President Donald Trump of America. Over the weeks, Nigeria was engulfed in acts of terrorism and banditry. An attack was launched in a church in Eruku,

Kwara State, which led to the death of two persons and the abduction of some worshipers. And hundreds of school children from St. Mary's Catholic School in Niger State were herded into captivity by dare-devil terrorists. Before then, terrorists had raided Comprehensive Girls' School in kebbi State and abducted scores of students.

The recent kidnapping of school children in the north and their dramatic release, the gruesome killing of the Benue State natives and the appropriation of their lands by Fulani herders, and the security problem bedevilling southern Nigeria have outraged Nigerians and portrayed our country in very bad light. The unending homicidal happenings which are carried out by non-state actors, tend to justify President Trump's designation of Nigeria as a country of special concern. However, the irrefutable fact is

that Nigeria is in the firm grip of banditry and terrorism.

But what will bring about the disintegration of Nigeria is our leaders' inability to prevent our country from descending into an anarchic situation. When part of a state in Nigeria is under the control of terrorists and bandits, it is a portent of doom for the country. Why? Those non-state actors can levy war against Nigeria and bring it to its knees.

But Nigeria's gradual sliding into an anarchic state, when the country is bifurcated along ethnic and religious lines, will embolden separatist groups to start using violent means to pursue their goals. Can Nigeria survive a second civil war? So it is incumbent on President Bola Tinubu to extirpate terrorism, banditry, and insurgency in Nigeria. Chiedu Uche Okoye, Uruowulu-Obosi, Anambra state

Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE

Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com

08033025611 sms only

Insecurity: Nigeria at a Crossroad to Restore Order, Credibility

With the confirmation of the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, as Minister of Defence by the Senate, Nigeria now stands at a pivotal moment that could signal a long overdue headway in the fight to restore order, credibility and public confidence in the security apparatus of the nation. Adedayo Adejobi writes.

The resignation of Mohammed Badaru Abubakar as Minister of Defence over what the official statement called health grounds has generated immediate controversy and intense scrutiny. Nigerians have become accustomed to this language in recent months. It has evolved into a polite formula for dismissals the government prefers not to describe honestly. When Abdullahi Ganduje stepped down on similar terms, the public understood the dance that was being performed. It is now a familiar ritual in an administration that is still learning how to confront its internal contradictions without embarrassment. Badaru’s exit is therefore not simply a personnel change. It is a window into deeper national anxieties, unresolved institutional weaknesses, and a security establishment that has struggled to align leadership with competence during one of the most dangerous periods in Nigeria’s modern history.

Badaru’s appointment had always puzzled many who follow the defence sector closely. His background in business and state level governance offered nothing resembling the strategic depth, martial understanding, conflict management capacity, or intellectual rigour that a country dealing with simultaneous insurgencies requires.

The role demanded a mind shaped by years of studying asymmetric warfare, inter agency coordination, intelligence gathering, and the psychology of violent groups.

Nigeria instead received an individual whose prior achievements lay outside the domain of national security. This mismatch was not a trivial error. It was a reflection of a broader culture in which political arithmetic and loyalty regularly overshadow the need for specialised leadership in critical sectors.

The presence of Bello Matawalle as Minister of State for Defence has compounded this dilemma. His tenure as governor of Zamfara state was marked by an extraordinary escalation of banditry. The controversies around his engagements with armed groups created a reputation that has lingered.

Many Nigerians believe he lacks the moral distance and technical capacity required for a role that involves shaping national doctrine on terrorism and internal security. In a ministry that should operate as a sanctuary of credibility and seriousness, his continued presence has raised uncomfortable questions about how Nigeria chooses the custodians of its most sensitive

portfolio. These concerns are heightened by the fact that public trust in the state’s willingness to confront violent networks has been eroded by years of ambiguity, conflicting messages, and episodes that have suggested quiet comfort with shadow negotiations.

It is in this climate that the nomination of former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa as the new Minister of Defence has been widely interpreted as a corrective measure.

Musa is not a politician. He is a career officer who has spent long period in the theatres where Nigeria’s security threats are most concentrated. He understands the topography of the North East and the North West. He has observed the evolution of Boko Haram factions.

He has engaged the reality of rural bandit territories, the complexity of ethnic armed formations, and the battlefield morale of Nigerian soldiers who operate under adverse conditions. Musa’s career gives him a vantage point that political appointees simply cannot replicate.

With the government following through with his choice, it represents a rare triumph of competence over political balancing.

Even so, the significance of this moment cannot be understood through personalities alone. Nigeria’s security institutions are trapped in structural constraints that extend far beyond any single appointment. The defence ministry has drifted into a habit of treating internal security challenges as opportunities for

performative governance rather than sites for strategic intervention. Too many decisions have been influenced by political patronage. Too many contracts have been shaped by opaque processes. Too many field operations have been compromised by interference from actors who measure success by optics rather than outcomes. This mindset has contributed to a widening gap between the severity of the threats confronting Nigeria and the seriousness with which the state responds.

Intelligence failures sit at the heart of this problem. There are persistent gaps in data collection, surveillance technology, information sharing, and analysis.

These deficiencies have allowed criminal groups to operate with confidence. Communities in several parts of the country describe a pattern in which attackers strike with precision, retreat into rural hideouts, and reemerge at intervals without significant disruption.

The state appears reactive. It responds after tragedy rather than anticipating it. The absence of a coherent intelligence architecture that integrates local knowledge, modern detection tools, financial tracking capabilities, and regional cooperation has limited Nigeria’s ability to dismantle terrorist networks from within. A well led ministry would have placed intelligence reform at the centre of its agenda. Instead, the system has drifted.

Another factor that has weakened national resolve is the public perception that the state has been too comfortable with negotiating with criminals. While no country can rule out negotiation entirely, the frequency with which bandits have compelled concessions in Nigeria has fuelled the belief that the state

These institutional and moral crises have shaped the public’s reaction to Badaru’s exit. many nigerians see it as an opportunity for a reset, but they also understand how quickly opportunities can be wasted. The resignation hints at a recognition within the presidency that the current security trajectory is neither sustainable nor defensible. yet the stakes are far higher than reputation management.

lacks moral authority and operational confidence. The recurring payment of ransoms has turned kidnapping into a profitable enterprise. Communities now see insecurity as a field in which violent actors enjoy more leverage than legitimate institutions. This perception has undermined faith in the government and encouraged criminals to interpret restraint as weakness. A defence ministry led by individuals with questionable records in their interactions with bandits only deepens this sense of moral disorientation.

These institutional and moral crises have shaped the public’s reaction to Badaru’s exit. Many Nigerians see it as an opportunity for a reset, but they also understand how quickly opportunities can be wasted. The resignation hints at a recognition within the presidency that the current security trajectory is neither sustainable nor defensible. Yet the stakes are far higher than reputation management.

Nigeria is in the midst of a long-term contest with groups that have mastered the art of exploiting state weakness. They operate in ungoverned spaces. They recruit from socially and economically marginalised populations. They fund themselves through extortion, illegal mining, cattle rustling, and external sponsorship. They have adapted to military pressure and learned to disperse across terrains where conventional warfare loses its utility. Confronting them requires a security architecture that is both technically sophisticated and ethically grounded.

General Musa represents a figure capable of embodying such an approach, but he cannot deliver results without structural reform. Nigeria needs to transform the defence ministry into an institution guided by strategy rather than patronage. It needs a procurement system that reflects value for money rather than value for networks.

It needs a command structure that supports officers in the field rather than tying their hands through political considerations. It needs a doctrine that places intelligence at the centre of operations and treats every piece of information as part of a larger mosaic. It needs clear lines of communication between civilians and military leaders so that oversight is informed rather than intrusive.

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Group Business Editor Eromosele Abiodun

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Stories by Emma Okonji

Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has revealed the critical failure of telecoms operators in meeting 5G demands in Nigeria’s two largest markets in Lagos and Abuja.

NCC disclosed this in its industry performance report on 5G coverage gap across the country that was published recently on its official website.

According to the report, the average 5G gap in Nigeria’s two largest telecoms market is as wide as 70.9 per cent in Lagos and 65.6 per cent in Abuja, with as much as 41,057 5G capable devices in Lagos alone that are not connected to any 5G network. In Abuja alone, 16, 143 5G capable devices are not also connected to any 5G network.

The noticeable wide gap in 5G coverage in Lagos

and Abuja, is a clear indication of the failure of telecoms operators to meet 5G demands in the two largest telecoms market in Nigeria, despite the commercial launch of 5G technology in Nigeria since 2022.

MTN had on September 19, 2022, launched its commercial 5G network in Lagos, with a promise to carryout 5G commercial launch in six other cities, which included: Abuja, Port

Harcourt, Ibadan, Kano, Owerri, and Maiduguri.

Speaking during the commercial launch in Lagos, its Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Karl Toriola, had said: “The advanced 5G technology promises to extend the reach and capacity of MTN Nigeria’s data network in Nigeria and enable much faster speeds and lower latency, giving customers near-instant access to the things they care about and downloads

that take seconds, instead of minutes.”

Similarly, on June 20, 2023, Airtel launched its 5G network across Lagos, Ogun, and Rivers states, including Abuja, the federal capital territory, with promises to cover the entire country by the end of the year.

Speaking at the 5G launch, the Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Carl Cruz, had said: “The 5G revolution opens a new

vista of opportunities and it is a quantum leap from the existing 4G network. With 4G, video playback and video calls are smooth but in 5G, end-to-end video creation with the support of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is possible.”

The report also showed connectivity gap in regional, urban and rural areas of Nigeria.

L E ad E r S hip i n acti O n award… Vice President, Kashim Shettima Presenting the

Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, in recognition of his

The latest analytical report released by McKinsey & Company has showed that the African continent’s data centre market could unlock between $20 billion and $30 billion in annual revenue by 2030, driven by the rapid rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cloud adoption, and Data-intensive consumer services.

The report however said capturing the $30 billion opportunity would require between $10 billion to $20 billion in new investment and a strategy built around Africa’s unique operating realities.

Giving details of the report, Senior Partner at McKinsey & Company, Kartik

Jayaram, said: “Africa’s data centre story is one of innovation meeting necessity. Success will depend on creating infrastructure and financing models tailored to local markets while meeting international standards for reliability and efficiency.”

According to Jayaram, Africa’s five largest markets — Egypt, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, and South Africa —together have less than 500 megawatts (MW) of

installed data center capacity, compared to roughly 800 MW in France alone. Yet demand is projected to grow 3.5 to 5.5 times by the end of the decade.

L-R: Principal Manager, MedServe, Kamal Lamido; VP & GM Imaging International, GEHC, Jean Philippe Bousquel; General Manager Service Sales International, GEHC, Peter Koyess; GM Africa, GEHC, Mohamed Haroun; Managing Director & CEO MedServe, Dr. Tolulope Adewole; President EAGM, GEHC, Kostas Deligiannis; Professor of Radiology at UCH Ibadan, Prof. Mojisola Atalabi; GM Science & Technology International, GEHC, Dr. Ibraheem Elmogy; Professor of Radiology and Medical Physics, University of Chicago, Prof. Steffen Sammet; and Managing Director, Rush University Medical Center, Dr. Christina Sammet, during the launch of a collaborative healthcare expansion program to improve access to diagnostic services across Nigeria…recently

Report: Nigeria’s Cyber Attack Breaches Surge 1,047% in Q3

Stories by Emma Okonji

Nigeria encountered an escalated cyber threats in Q3 2025, as data breaches affecting Nigerian entities rose by an extraordinary 1,047 per cent compared to the previous quarter, according to findings from the recently released esentry Eagle’s Eyes Q3 2025 cybersecurity report.

The report findings showed that Nigeria logged an average of 6,101 attacks per week in July, a pace that continued through the quarter and marked a turning point in the volume and sophistication of attacks targeting high-value institutions, especially in the fintech sector.

The report’s analysis indicated a decisive shift in how attackers gained access to corporate environments. Instead of exploiting technical vulnerabilities, adversaries increasingly entered systems using valid credentials, often harvested from previous data leaks or left active long after employees had departed.

Analysing the report, Chief Business Officer (CBO) at esentry, Gbolabo Awelewa, said: “As the threat landscape evolves, Nigeria is no longer dealing with opportunistic cybercrime, but confronting organised, identity-driven campaigns that move with intent, patience, and precision. Despite the surge

NSIA, GE Healthcare Collaborate to Expand Diagnostic Services Access

The Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority (‘NSIA’ or ‘the Authority’), through its wholly owned healthcare subsidiary NSIA Advanced Medical Services Limited (MedServe), in collaboration with GE HealthCare, has announced a major initiative to improve access to diagnostic services across Nigeria.

As part of the first phase of its healthcare expansion program, MedServe will establish 10 new diagnostic centers strategically located across key regions in the

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country as part of their mission to provide advanced healthcare for every Nigerian.

Managing Director/CEO of MedServe, Dr Tolu Adewole, said, “This agreement represents a pivotal milestone in Nigeria’s healthcare journey. By combining world-class technology with local expertise, we are strengthening the national healthcare system and expanding access to reliable diagnostic services for millions of Nigerians. These centers will support timely testing, early detection of diseases, and improved health outcomes across the country.”

General Manager, GE HealthCare West Africa, Dr George Uduku stated: “Access to advanced diagnostic services remains a top priority for the country. Through this collaboration with MedServe, we are helping to close that gap by bringing imaging technology closer to communities. Our goal is to enable earlier diagnosis, improve treatment decisions, and strengthen local capacity through training and long-term support—so more Nigerians can receive the care they need, when they need it.

in threats, this moment is also a turning point. With the proper controls, stronger

identity oversight, and earlywarning intelligence, Nigerian organisations can stay ahead

of these attacks. Our role at esentry is to ensure that the future of cybersecurity in Nigeria is not defined by fear, but by preparedness and resilience.”

Senate to Revisit Courier Regulatory Bill Five Years After

Given the projected global market value of courier, logistics and transport industry, which is put at $60 trillion, with Nigerian market valued at $16 trillion with an asset worth $14 trillion, the Nigerian 10th Senate is set to revisit the country’s Courier Regulatory Bill, five years after it was initially discussed but set aside.

Chairman, Senate Committee on

Communications, Senator Aliyu Ikra Bilbis, who gave the assurance of the planned revisit during the Courier Logistics Management Institute (CLMI) International Conference and Investiture 2005, which held in Lagos, said there was need for an independent regulatory body for the courier industry in Nigeria, as practiced in other climes, to enable Nigeria tap into the huge market value

of its courier, logistics and transport industry.

Bilbis who spoke to THISDAY on the sideline of the conference, said: “The Courier Bill is very important to revisit. I will personally go through it to understand exactly the content of the bill, before presenting it to the National Assembly.”

The keynote speaker at the conference and Chairman, Nigerian Ports Authority

(NPA), Senator Adedayo Clement Adeyeye, who was represented by Senator Bosun Oladele, said: “No economy grows faster than its logistics network allows. In Nigeria, over 80 per cent of our international trade by volume and 70 per cent by value is maritime-based, which makes the Nigerian Ports Authority a strategic driver of national wealth and industrial growth.”

At 20 Years, NiRA Celebrates .ng Innovators, Users

The Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA), the body managing Nigeria’s cyberspace identity, on Tuesday in Lagos, celebrated its 20th anniversary and 8th.ng Awards, where it honoured pioneer drivers of Nigeria’s .ng domain name, the innovators, as well as the users of .ng domain name.

Chairman, organising committee of the 20th anniversary celebration, Mr. Peter Oluka, in his welcome speech, said for 20 years, Nira has nurtured the .ng domain brand, which is Nigeria’s identity in the cyberspace, thus empowering businesses, inspiring innovation,

promoting local content and firmly establishing Nigeria’s presence on the global internet map.

“What began as an ambitious dream two decades ago has grown into a vibrant ecosystem, strengthened by commitments and shared in the power of our national digital identity,” Oluka said.

In his opening remarks, NiRA’s President, Adesola Akinsanya, said: “As we celebrate excellence, innovation and the spirit of Nigeria’s digital identity, this year’s edition is truly special because it coincides with the monumental milestone, the 20th anniversary of NiRA and the 8th .ng Awards.

FG Launches New Device Credit Programme to Ease Payment

The Federal Government, through the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP), has launched a national digital device credit programme that will make smartphones, laptops, and other essential digital tools more affordable for working Nigerians.

In a statement, it said the rollout followed the success of the pilot phase, which enabled over 1,000 Nigerians to access smartphones

through affordable credit.

The corporation announced that, in the new phase, it would be scaling the programme to cover over 15,000 working Nigerians, who would be able to access smartphones, laptops, and other digital devices.

It noted that to deliver this initiative at scale, CREDICORP is working with one of its Participating Financial Institutions, E-Finance Company, and is

receiving technology support from Credlock.

Reflecting on the launch, CREDICORP’s Managing Director, Uzoma Nwagba, noted that the move was a natural progression of its work.

He explained that the initiative aligned with the government’s broader agenda to expand digital inclusion, enhance productivity, and support a modern workforce.

Credlock’s CEO, Dayo Fabayo,

emphasised the power of turning everyday devices into pathways for progress. He said: “Every smartphone represents potential to learn, to work, to access opportunity, and to live with dignity. At Credlock, we believe the device in someone’s hand can be the bridge to their financial future. Working with CREDICORP and E-Finance allows us to scale that vision to millions of Nigerians.”

Firm Achieves 100m Card Milestone

Verve, Africa’s leading payments card brand, powered by the Interswitch Group, has achieved a landmark industry milestone, surpassing 100 million Verve cards issued across the African continent.

Announcing the feat at a media briefing in Lagos, the Divisional Head, Growth

Marketing, at Interswitch, Chidi Oluaoha, delivered a keynote address on behalf of Executive Vice President, Group Marketing and Corporate Communications at Interswitch Group, Cherry Eromosele.

In her speech, Eromosele described the milestone as “a powerful symbol of

growth, resilience, and the evolving needs of millions of Africans who rely on Verve every day”.

According to her, “What began as a simple idea, one card designed to empower everyday life, has grown into 100 million stories, 100 million touchpoints, and 100 million reasons to

deepen our commitment to delivering secure, seamless, and meaningful payment experiences across Africa,” she said. She emphasised that the accomplishment underscored Verve’s deep consumer insight, continuous innovation, and unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction.”

Innovation, Resilience, Dynamism: The Transformational

Tripod

for Emerging African Business Innovators

Africa’s Next Generation of Builders will attain greater heights if they take onboard the message delivered by the Managing Director, Financial Institutions Training Centre, Dr. Chizor Malize, via a Compelling Keynote address at the TIBA Conference & Awards 2025, writes Oluchi Chibuzor

The 2025 TIBA Conference and Awards once again turned the spotlight on Africa’s brightest innovators — the young professionals, entrepreneurs, and founders who are pushing boundaries and redefining what is possible across industries. But beyond the celebration of excellence, this year’s event gave the continent something more: a strategic playbook for the future of African enterprise.

That playbook came through the highly impactful keynote delivered by the Chief Executive Officer of the Financial Institutions Training Centre (FITC), Dr. Chizor Malize, whose message to this emerging generation of builders and innovators was powerful, practical, and deeply inspiring. Through her keynote, Malize gave the room a framework for growth, themed “Transformational Tripod for growth; Innovation, Resilience, and Dynamism”

Her message resonated not only because it reflected the realities young Africans face, but because it mirrored the very attributes that have powered some of Africa’s most successful unicorns that she referenced such as Flutterwave, M-Pesa, and Andela.

Building Growth Mindsets

Malize spoke on the mindsets and muscles that Africa’s next generation will need to thrive in a world moving at unparalleled speed. “The future does not reward the talented, it rewards the prepared, the adaptable, and the courageous,” she said, capturing the attention of the room filled with young leaders, business founders, entrepreneurs and high-potential professionals. Her message came at a time when African youth are launching businesses faster than ever. The TIBA platform, a celebration of these emerging leaders, became the perfect setting for her call to action.

Innovation: Africa’s License to Compete

To illustrate the importance of innovation, Malize referenced Flutterwave — a company that simplified one of Africa’s biggest challenges: moving money across borders. Flutterwave was born from a simple observation: payments in Africa were broken, and solving that problem could unlock everything else.

“This is the kind of innovation to pursue; innovation rooted in solving real problems, innovation born from local insight, innovation that transforms complexities into opportunities”. She remarked.

She reminded the audience that innovation must simply create value. For many young Africans, this message hit home. Innovation begins with paying attention to the little things, to the little changes that need and can be made. And to the big things that can disrupt.

Resilience: The Backbone of Every Successful African Venture “If innovation is the spark, resilience is the engine,” She enthused.

African business environments, she said, often come with unpredictability - fluctuating regulations, limited infrastructure, or economic swings. “Yet resilience is precisely what has propelled companies like M-Pesa, which reimagined financial access in Kenya long before global markets began talking about mobile banking. M-Pesa succeeded not because conditions were perfect, but because its builders learned to navigate constraints with persistence and creativity.” She stated. Malize challenged the audience to build this same kind of inner stamina.

“In moments when doors close, resilience gives you the courage to build your own,”

she said, a statement that resonated with the room full of enthusiastic attendees.

Her point was simple: Resilience is not merely surviving challenges — it is using challenges as raw material for reinvention.

Dynamism: The Ability to Evolve at the Speed of Change

The third pillar, dynamismspoke directly to Africa’s young workforce and new founders. Dynamism, she explained, is the willingness to learn, unlearn, and pivot when necessary. No African unicorn embodies dynamism better than Andela, which began as a developer training company and later evolved into a global talent marketplace. When the world changed, Andela changed too boldly and intentionally. This adaptability, Dr. Malize noted, is essential for emerging African innovators: the ability to evolve, to stay curious, to stay open, and to stay relevant. Dynamism is not speed — it is intelligent movement.

can be distilled into three clear mandates for every aspiring African innovator:

• Innovate with insight and originality Solve problems that matter. Solve them in ways that reflect your environment. Solve them with courage.

• Build resilience as a core leadership skill. Not everything will work immediately. But through resilience build what is enduring.

the audience are to Be flexible. Be curious. Be willing to pivot. And be unafraid to change direction.

TIBA Stage as a Catalyst for African Excellence

The TIBA Conference and Awards platform, known for elevating the continent’s brightest emerging leaders, created the perfect environment for this message. Every honouree had a story of grit, passion, reinvention, or breakthrough — living examples of the transformational tripod in action.

What made Malize’s keynote particularly impactful was how it aligned seamlessly with the ethos of the TIBA Awards: celebrating not just success, but the journey behind success, the late nights, the failures, the rebounds, the pivots, and the discoveries. Her message complemented this spirit beautifully.

In that single keynote, Dr. Chizor Malize distilled what has taken global innovators years to learn and what African unicorns continue to demonstrate: success in Africa is not accidental; it is engineered through innovation, resilience, and dynamism. Her message at the TIBA Awards did more than inspire.

It equipped. It clarified.

It challenged. It reset expectations for what Africa’s emerging innovators must become.

For the young talents who filled the TIBA hall that evening, one truth became unmistakable: Their future will be shaped by the tripod they build today.

Place for Talent Development: The FITC Perspective

While her keynote was directed at the youth, it was grounded in the institutional experience of FITC, which has spent over 40 years developing leaders, strengthening institutions, and preparing professionals for the future of work. Through initiatives like the FITC Future of Work Academy (FOWA), which promotes and equips young workforce with digital leadership programmes, Cybersecurity courses, innovation and technology bootcamps, and resilience masterclasses, FITC has become a talent engine for the continent. Malize’s perspective is shaped by the evidence she sees daily partnering with professionals and organisations across Africa as FITC bring knowledge solutions to the financial sector across the continent.

Dr. Chizor Malize

Recognising Drivers of Nigeria’s Digital Economy

Emma Okonji narrates how the Nigeria Computer Society recognised and celebrated the drivers of Nigeria’s digital economy, at the weekend in Lagos

NCS, at the weekend in Lagos, through its flagship programme, ‘National Information Technology Merit Awards (NITMA), celebrated brilliance, creativity and innovation among select Nigerians that have contributed to the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.

The awardees cut across different sectors of the Nigerian economy, including individuals that are outstanding in shaping Nigeria’s digital economy. They were awarded in different categories, which include: Professional Fellowship Award, Honorary Fellowship Award, Digital Governor of the Year, IT Gold Medal Award, Youth Innovation Award, IT Company of the Year Award, Tech Mentor of the Year Award, Cybersecurity Advocate of the Year Award, NGO with Immense Contribution Award, among others.

Speaking during his opening remarks, NCS President, Dr. Muhammad Sirajo Aliyu, said each of the awardees represented the core values of NCS—Excellence, Integrity, Innovation and Impact, adding that NCS will continue to collaborate to advance IT knowledge, uplift one another and create a digital world for all.

Chairman of NITMA 2025 Award ceremony, Alhaji Ladi Oguneye, who commended the awardees, said they could not be winner if they were not very determined, disciplined, and resolute in driving technology development in the country.

“The awardees and winners, both individuals and corporate, I congratulate you. May your road continue to be positively rough to bring out the best in you,” Oguneye said.

Digital Transformation

Speaking about digital transformation in Nigeria, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Isaac Olaseinde, declared NCS as an outstanding association that has been at the heart of Nigeria’s digital transformation journey for decades, through is advocacy.

“Through the recognition, NCS is strengthening our digital economy, building talent, expanding infrastructure, enabling innovation, and advancing technology for national development. The recognition, as a motivation, will continue to drive policies and programmes of government that will enable the Nigerian tech community to thrive from workforce development to entrepreneurship, technology transfer, and global competitiveness. I thank the National Executive Council and the entire membership of the Nigeria Computer Society, and I remain committed to partnering with NCS to build a more inclusive, resilient, and prosperous digital future for Nigeria,” the minister said.

President/Chairman-in-Council, Computer Professionals (Registration Council) of Nigeria (CPN), Dr. Eyo Effiong Essien, said: “The award event is not merely a celebration of individual and corporate achievements, but a vital catalyst that inspires quality, professionalism, and healthy competition necessary for the sustainable growth of our digital economy. The sustained success of NITMA underscores the critical leadership NCS provides in fostering an environment where innovation is not just encouraged but formally rewarded.”

“We recognise that the Information Technology (IT) sector has become the backbone of Nigeria’s economic diversification and social transformation agenda, from enhancing financial inclusion and modernising public service delivery to driving youth empowerment through digital skills. As CPN, our mandate is to ensure that all practitioners operate within their requisite competence and ethical standards. We are focused on continuous collaboration with NCS to harmonise industry-based practices, promote continuous professional development, and ensure that our registered members are equipped with the skills needed to tackle contemporary global challenges, particularly in areas such as cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and indigenous software development,” Essien further said.

ICT as Driver of State’s IGR

Giving details how Information and Communications Technology (ICT) is enhancing internally generated revenue (IGR) for states, one of the awardees, the Executive Governor of Borno State, Prof. BabaganaUmara Zulum, who emerged as the ‘Digital Governor of the Year’, said ICT had remained the main driver of IGR for the state.

The governor, who was represented by the Executive Secretary, Borno State Information and Communications Technology Development Agency, Mohammed Kabiru, said: “In revenue system, we have deployed automated platforms that have strengthened our internally generated revenue, eliminating leakages, improved taxpayer compliance, and enhanced financial accountability across ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) of government. Our digital revenue architecture has become a model of transparency-driven governance.”

Speaking about other ICT-enabled development in the state, the governor said the state government established 22 digital literacy centres with state-of-the-art equipment, and powered by solar with seamless internet facilities in some of the local government areas of the state.

Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited (SNEPCo) as Operator of the Bonga Southwest/Aparo (BSW/A) Unit Area (straddling NNPC CWA111023 block boundaries), invites interested and reputable contractors with relevant experience to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) for the Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Transport, Installation, Commissioning and Reliability Run Operations of a Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) Unit for the BSW/A field development project.

The project is a deepwater oil development located about 135 kilometres offshore Nigeria in water depths of up to 1400 metres. The development concept is based on a new hub, with a standalone spreadmoored FPSO with nameplate oil processing capacity of 150 kbopd and 1.8 MMbbls (minimum) nominal storage capacity. The subsea network consists of 40 km of subsea flowlines with 2 production loops, 1 water injection line, a 12- inch x 98 km gas export line, and about 35 km of static and dynamic umbilicals.

The scope of the FPSO EPCI scope, the subject of this pre-qualification request, includes the Hull, Topsides modules, Transport, Installation, Commissioning and Reliability Run Operations of the fully functional FPSO.

Only capable and reputable contractors (herein referred to as “Respondents”) with a proven track record and relevant experience in work of similar nature and size are invited to apply for Pre-Qualification.

The scope of work shall include, but is not limited to, the following activities:

• Pre-FEED design competition

• Front-End Engineering Design (FEED)

• Detailed design of the mooring, hull and topsides

• Construction of the FPSO Hull

• Procurement and fabrication of Topsides equipment/modules

• Design, procurement and installation of an Integrated Control and Safeguarding System (ICSS).).

• Transportation, installation, integration and pre-commissioning of the Topsides modules

• Transportation, offshore installation and pre-commissioning of the FPSO

• Commissioning and start-up

• Reliability Run Operations

• Project management and interface management within and across other project contract boundaries.

Respondents are required to provide the following documentation, to accompany their submission:

a. A cover letter summarizing the contents of the Pre-Qualification submission.

b. Respondent’s Pre-Qualification submission must demonstrate their ability to execute the scope of work as described in Section 2 herein. Only those Respondents able to demonstrate and document proven experience, available resources, and readiness to undertake the work as requested in the Pre-Qualification Questionnaire will be considered.

The criteria shall, as a minimum, include the following:

a. Respondents should have standard designs – Hull and Topsides – and engineering capabilities to adapt their standards design to meet project specific requirements.

b. Proven experience of fabricating these designs.

c. Evidence of large Hull - Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) sized FPSOs - fabrication experience within the past 10 years.

d. Proven Start-Up and Ramp-Up Capabilities (SURU) for FPSO projects.

e. Evidence of FPSO hub Operate and Maintain capabilities.

f. Credit will be given to Respondents that have previous experience as a Lead Contractor with long and strong track record of FPSO projects delivery.

Respondents should provide the name and full contact information of the officer in their company who has responsibility for responding to any potential Invitation To Tender (ITT) in the event that Respondent satisfies the requirements of

the Pre-Qualification. Respondents shall also provide a duly authorised and certified Power of Attorney for the said individual, verifying their authority to act on behalf of and to bind the Respondent in all matters related to the Pre-Qualification.

The Pre-Qualification exercise is a critical first step in the overall tendering process, and Respondents are advised to provide detailed responses to the Pre-Qualification Questionnaire, to the required level of detail to enable SNEPCo properly assess their capability, experience and readiness to participate in any tender.

Companies interested in responding to the EOI shall, on or before 1500 hours (GMT+1) on 11th December 2025, send an email confirmation to the email address below stating their intention to respond to the EOI. A Prequalification Questionnaire shall be issued via return email to all companies that confirmed their interest as stated above. Respondents shall then provide detailed answers and clarifications to the questionnaire

The Prequalification package shall be submitted on or before 1500 hours (GMT+1) on 2nd January 2026, to the following email address: bswaeoi@nipex.com.ng

Respondents shall provide a written confirmation, signed by an authorized representative, stating their readiness to comply with applicable Nigerian Content Requirements as will be approved by NCDMB in line with the provisions of the NOGICD Act (2010) and applicable enablers from 2024 Presidential Directives, before being considered for award of a contract arising from this EOI.

• All costs incurred in preparing and responding to this EOI shall be to the respondent’s accounts.

• This advertisement shall neither be construed as any form of commitment on the part of SNEPCO to award any contract to any company and or associated companies, sub-contractors, or agents, nor shall it entitle respondents to make any claims whatsoever, and/or seek any indemnity from SNEPCO and or any of its Partners by virtue of such companies having been responded to this EOI.

• SNEPCO will communicate only with authorized officers of the respondent companies and NOT through individuals or Agents.

A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.

An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

GUIDE TO DATA:

Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 02 December 2025, unless otherwise stated.

Offer price:

SOStainability Week ly

Edited

Washing and hushing

Nigerian airlines doing next to nothing on climate governance

Nigeria’s aviation sector is flying straight into the centre of the global climate conversation, but you would never know that from listening to its airlines. Aviation accounts for roughly 2.5 per cent of global CO₂ emissions and is projected to triple in Africa by 2050 as air travel expands. Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) identifies transport, including aviation, as a key growth area for emissions, and the country’s updated long-term climate strategy stresses the need for cleaner fuels, fleet modernisation and improved efficiency across the sector. Yet none of this is visible in the public communications of the airlines that service Nigeria’s skies.

The government has already submitted an updated State Action Plan to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and adopted the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) into national regulation. Nigeria recognises that aviation emissions will rise without intervention and has modelled the consequences. But when you visit airline websites, the climate story disappears. No policies, no reports, no targets and no evidence that these carriers acknowledge their role in a sector whose demand and emissions are rising faster than many others.

As in previous editions of SOStainability Weekly, our Sustainability Visibility Scan (SVS) this week focuses entirely on airlines operating in Nigeria. We are not examining airports, navigation services or the regulations themselves. The question is clearer and more urgent. If Nigeria has already defined the climate responsibilities of its aviation sector, why are the airlines still silent in a future where their emissions are expected to grow?

What the SOStainability scan shows

Our assessment applied the SOStainability Visibility Scan to nine major Nigerian airlines and three international carriers operating in the country. The Nigerian dataset includes Air Peace, Arik Air, Ibom Air, Max Air, Overland Airways, Azman Air, United Nigeria Airlines, ValueJet and Aero Contractors. These airlines dominate the domestic aviation landscape and collectively shape the carbon exposure of Nigeria’s passenger air travel. The international dataset includes Emirates, British Airways and Qatar Airways, all of which operate high traffic routes into Nigeria and represent the global benchmark against which regional performance can be compared.

The SVS methodology follows the same strict standard used in previous editions. A company receives credit only for information it publishes on its official website because visibility is the first step in accountability. If a policy is not displayed, it cannot guide investors or regulators. If reporting is not accessible, it cannot support verification. If governance is not disclosed, it cannot be validated. This approach aligns with the Climate Change Act, which places transparency at the centre of climate governance. The SVS assesses visibility across four dimensions: climate policy, sustainability reporting, measurable targets and governance roles, each scored from zero to three for a total score of twelve.

Our findings for Nigerian airlines reveal a disturbing but uniform pattern. All nine airlines scored zero in all four dimensions, placing every domestic carrier in the Non Starter category. Air Peace, Arik Air, Ibom Air, Max Air and Overland Airways each maintain functional, customer-facing websites but provide no climate policies, no sustainability reports, no measurable climate targets and no identifiable sustainability leadership. Azman Air, United Nigeria Airlines and ValueJet follow the same pattern.

Their websites are modern and intuitive from a booking perspective, but silent on climate responsibility. None presents a structured environmental commitment, a reporting document or evidence of internal governance capacity for sustainability.

The contrast with the three international airlines is striking. Emirates scored nine out of twelve, supported by visible environmental policies, thematic reporting and identifiable sustainability leadership. British Airways and Qatar Airways scored twelve out of twelve and demonstrated full visibility across policy, reporting, targets and governance. Their websites present detailed environmental policies, publicly available sustainability reports, clear emissions and efficiency targets and

defined organisational structures for climate oversight.

This contrast is more than a visibility gap. It reflects a structural divide between carriers that share the same operating landscape but display very different levels of climate engagement. The global airlines serving Nigeria acknowledge the growing expectations around transparency by publishing policies, reports, targets and governance structures. The domestic airlines do not, creating a silence that extends far beyond missing documents. The SVS findings reveal an industry that appears disconnected from the transparency norms shaping global aviation. Without visible commitments and leadership, financiers, international partners and regulators

struggle to assess readiness, leaving Nigerian airlines exposed to strategic risks that will only intensify as the sector continues its climate transition.

Aviation is changing but Nigerian airlines are not Nigeria’s aviation regulations have evolved significantly, yet the country’s airlines have not translated these shifts into any visible public commitment. The updated State Action Plan submitted to ICAO outlines a national pathway for reducing CO₂ emissions from international civil aviation. It highlights fleet modernisation, operational efficiency gains, improved air traffic management and the gradual adoption of sustainable aviation fuel. The document provides sector-specific modelling and even lists the Nigerian airlines operating international routes, signalling that these carriers are expected participants in the transition.

Part 16 of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations reinforces this expectation. It incorporates CORSIA into domestic jurisdiction and requires airlines that meet ICAO’s thresholds to monitor, report and verify their emissions and to cancel eligible units. The NCAA’s accompanying Statement of Compliance goes further by itemising specific obligations, documentation requirements and methods for demonstrating conformity. In regulatory terms, Nigeria has built a clear compliance structure and aligned itself with global aviation climate norms. What remains absent is any indication that airlines have embraced these obligations as part of their public identity. The regulatory system acknowledges aviation’s climate footprint and assigns clear responsibilities to operators, yet none of the major Nigerian airlines present a climate policy, a report or a governance structure that reflects this reality. The state has moved ahead with its regulatory commitments. The airlines have not yet begun to articulate how they intend to comply or how they intend to position themselves within a sector that is becoming more climate-conscious.

Why visibility matters for aviation in Nigeria

The absence of visibility across the airlines is not a cosmetic issue. It has structural implications for how the sector will navigate an international environment that is tightening around climate performance.

The first implication is strategic. When airlines publish no climate policies or targets, it suggests that climate risk has not been integrated into their planning processes. This is especially concerning in a sector where fuel efficiency, fleet modernisation and operational emissions are becoming part of the economic logic of competitiveness.

The second implication is regulatory. CORSIA rests on a foundation of monitoring, reporting and verification. When Nigerian airlines publish no disclosures, it becomes difficult for national authorities to communicate progress, assess compliance or integrate aviation into national climate reporting frameworks. Nigeria’s updated State Action Plan already models emissions trajectories, but without airline-level disclosures, the gap between planning and evidence will widen.

The third implication is financial. Leasing companies, lenders and insurers increasingly view climate reporting as a proxy for operational discipline. International partners already expect carriers to provide ESG-related disclosures when negotiating aircraft, financing or long-term service agreements.

•Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation

•Allen Onyeama, CEO, Airpeace

SOStainability Week ly

Edited by Oke Epia | e-mail:

Trends and Threads

Carbon Markets : Promoting sustainable development or enabling new inequalities ?

The global carbon market is a system that allows countries, companies, and organizations to buy and sell carbon credits to offset emissions they cannot reduce directly. One carbon credit usually represents one ton of CO₂ avoided or removed from the atmosphere. These credits can come from activities such as forest conservation, clean cooking programs, renewable energy projects, or methane capture.

There are two main types of markets. Compliance markets are created by governments and require companies to follow emissions caps. Voluntary markets, on the other hand, allow companies to buy credits to meet self-imposed climate commitments. Both systems aim to reduce global emissions, but they operate differently. Compliance markets tend to be stricter, while voluntary markets are more flexible but often face more scrutiny.

The value of carbon markets lies in their ability to direct finance toward climate solutions. When a credit is purchased, it supports the project that generated the emission reduction. This makes carbon markets an important tool for climate action, especially in places that need investment for renewable energy or land restoration. However, markets only work well when rules are clear, and the credits represent real, measurable impacts.

Understanding Article 6 and the Paris Agreement Rules

Article 6 of the Paris Agreement sets out the international rules for how countries can cooperate on emission reductions. It is the section that will shape the future of the global carbon market. Article 6 allows nations to transfer emission reductions to each other through mechanisms known as Internationally Transferred Mitigation Outcomes (ITMOs). This means a country can support a project abroad and count part of those reductions toward its own climate targets.

A strong Article 6 framework could improve trust and bring more investment to developing countries. A weak one could create loopholes that allow countries or companies to avoid meaningful cuts. This

is why negotiations have been tense and why Article 6 is seen as one of the most important parts of the Paris Agreement.

Controversial but necessary

Carbon markets spark debate because they sit at the intersection of climate action, finance, and ethics. Critics argue that carbon credits can be used as a shortcut, allowing companies to pay for offsets instead of reducing their own emissions. Some projects have been exposed as overstated or ineffective, triggering concerns about greenwashing and false climate progress.

There are also questions about fairness. Communities hosting carbon projects sometimes receive little benefit, even though the profits flow elsewhere. Forest-dependent communities can face restrictions on their land if carbon projects are poorly designed, creating tensions between conservation and livelihoods.

Despite these concerns, many experts believe carbon markets remain necessary. The IPCC states that global warming cannot be limited without significant investment in carbon removal and nature-based solutions.

Carbon markets provide a source of funding to scale these solutions, especially in countries that lack financial resources. The challenge is to build markets that are transparent,

accountable, and aligned with real climate impact rather than paper-based emissions reductions.

Carbon markets are not a perfect tool, but they are a practical one—if designed with strong integrity safeguards.

How developing countries can benefit from carbon trading

Developing countries have some of the world’s largest opportunities for high-quality carbon projects. These include forest conservation, renewable energy expansion, soil carbon farming, and clean cooking programs. With the right systems in place, carbon markets can bring in billions of dollars to support sustainable development.

For many countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, carbon finance can fill critical gaps in climate funding. Governments can use revenues to improve rural energy access, invest in nature protection, or support communities vulnerable to climate shocks. Projects such as peatland restoration or clean cooking also improve public health, reduce deforestation, and create jobs.

Carbon markets can also attract foreign investment and support national climate targets. If countries establish strong frameworks, investors feel more confident that credits are real and high quality. This builds local expertise and strengthens national

A Personal Reflection on COP 30

By Sam Onuigbo

As I followed the discussions and decisions emerging from the thirtieth Conference of the Parties in Belém, Brazil, I gleaned several important lessons about the direction of global climate action. One of the most striking developments was the launch of the Belém Mission to 1.5 degrees centigrade. To me, this signalled a decisive shift from endless declarations a focus on real delivery.

The initiative is aimed at tracking whether countries are doing enough to keep global warming within safe limits, identify where progress is slow, and press leaders to act with greater

urgency. This shows that the world is gradually moving away from rhetoric and turning towards accountability.

I also came away from COP30 with a renewed understanding of the centrality of adaptation. Many observers rightly called it the “Conference of the Parties of adaptation”. Nations agreed to triple global adaptation financing by 2035, a commitment that carries enormous significance for countries like Nigeria. You will agree with me that increased support for renewable energy is vital in addressing Nigeria’s transport and power challenges which are major sources of greenhouse gas emission in Nigeria. Hosting the summit in the Amazon also made a

powerful statement. Standing amid the world’s largest tropical rainforest, leaders could not ignore the role that forests play in absorbing carbon and stabilising the planet. Brazil’s Tropical Forests Forever Facility, though some forest protection advocates has shown reservation about the fund, the conference emphasized the urgent need to protect forests as carbon sinks which sequester greenhouse gases and sustain both the climate and human livelihoods

Perhaps the most meaningful lesson I took from the summit was the emphasis on fairness. I observed that the Just Transition Mechanism (JTM) gained ground, reinforcing the idea that vulnerable populations, women, young people, indigenous communities, and low-income households must not be left behind as the world shifts towards cleaner energy.

•Onuigbo is the sponsor of Nigeria’s climate change law.

climate institutions.

However, benefits are not automatic. Countries need clear legal systems, transparent monitoring, and strong community consent processes. Without these foundations, carbon trading can create more harm than good. This is why many developing nations are now building stronger transparency guidelines before expanding their carbon markets.

Building trust and integrity in emerging carbon markets

Emerging markets hold some of the world’s strongest potential for high-quality carbon projects, but they also face some of the most complex integrity challenges. Many countries across Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America are now developing national registries, pricing systems, and legal frameworks to ensure that carbon credits represent real and measurable emission reductions. Trust is becoming the core currency in these markets. Without strong rules, regions risk undervaluing their carbon assets or allowing external actors to shape the market in ways that do not support local priorities.

Governments in several emerging economies are introducing benefit-sharing rules to ensure that communities who host carbon projects receive fair compensation. Independent verification systems are expanding in markets such as Kenya, Indonesia, Brazil, and Vietnam as they strengthen their monitoring capacity. Regional initiatives like the African Carbon Markets Initiative and similar coalitions forming in Southeast Asia, aim to raise standards and promote high-quality credits that meet international expectations.

The push for integrity reflects lessons learned from earlier carbon market experiments around the world, where poorly designed projects left communities feeling excluded or misrepresented. As emerging markets grow their participation in global carbon trading, the next phase must protect both climate outcomes and social outcomes. If countries across Africa, Asia, and Latin America establish strong rules now, they can position themselves as credible leaders in the future of global carbon finance.

A future of fair and credible climate finance

The global carbon market is evolving quickly, and the decisions made at COP30 will determine its credibility and long-term usefulness. For developing nations, the opportunity is real, but so are the risks. A well-governed carbon market can unlock finance for clean energy, protect ecosystems, and support community resilience. A poorly governed one can undermine trust and allow low-quality credits to flood the system.

The world needs a carbon market that is transparent, ethical, and aligned with real climate outcomes. As countries refine Article 6 rules, the challenge is to build a system that reduces emissions while protecting the people and landscapes that make carbon reduction possible. The choices made now will shape not just the market, but the future of global climate finance.

BoI, NCDMB Seal Pact on $100M NCIF Equity Investment Scheme

Oluchi Chibuzor

The Bank of Industry (BoI) and the Nigeria Content Monitoring and Development Board (NCDMB) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on $100 million Nigerian Content Intervention Fund (NCIF) equity investment scheme to support high-potential Nigerian companies.

The scheme will also complement traditional debt financing and strengthen access to the long-term risk capital required for scale, competitiveness, and value creation.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the bank, Dr. Olasupo Olusi, who spoke briefly at the ongoing Practical Nigeria Content (PNC) forum in Yenagoa, Bayelsa

State, said the collaboration between the BoI and the board marks a significant expansion of their longstanding relationship.

“I extend my sincere appreciation to the Executive Secretary, Felix Omatsola Ogbe, and the entire NCDMB leadership for their partnership, shared vision, and unwavering commitment to strengthening indigenous participation across Nigeria’s oil and gas value chain.

“Through the $100 million NCIF Equity Investment Scheme, the Bank of Industry will deploy equity and quasiequity capital to support high-potential Nigerian companies, complementing traditional debt financing and strengthening access to the long-term risk capital required for scale,

competitiveness, and value creation,” he added.

He explained that the structure of the Fund reflects BOI’s proven equity investment approach, anchored on rigorous due diligence, disciplined investment review processes, and robust post-investment monitoring.

According to him, “Our objective is to ensure that deployed capital generates credible commercial returns while advancing national priorities in local content development, manufacturing expansion, job creation, and technology transfer.

Earlier in his opening remark, the Executive Secretary, NCDMB, Omatshola Ogbe, said the deal was part of the board’s efforts to provide affordable finance for local players in the industry.

FCMB Named Nigeria’s Best SME-focused Bank

First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has been named Nigeria’s Best SME Focused Bank for 2025 by the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN). This recognition comes as FCMB holds a leading 24% share of the banking industry’s N1.8 trillion total SME disbursement for 2024.

The award was presented at the 60th Annual Bankers Dinner in Lagos on November 28, 2025, highlighting First City Monument Bank’s strong role in supporting small and medium-sized businesses.

Yemisi Edun, First City Monument Bank’s Managing Director and CEO, was represented by Obaro Odeghe, Executive Director of Wholesale Banking at the

FCMB’s financing targets the true engines of the Nigerian economy. According to the November 2024 Nigerian Gross Domestic Product Report Q3 2024, these investments align with the nation’s highest-performing sectors, including Crop Production (26.51%), Trade (14.78%), and Telecommunications (13.94%), alongside Real Estate (5.43%) and Food, Beverage and Tobacco (4.06%).

Annual Banker’s Dinner. She said: “We are truly honoured to be recognised by the CIBN, based on data from the Central Bank of Nigeria. This recognition affirms our purpose as an institution committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of Nigerian entrepreneurs, who are the backbone of our economy. We will continue to support SMEs with the accessible finance, technology, and expert advice they need to grow. By strengthening these businesses, we drive productivity and contribute directly to national development.”

Terra Emerges Top at the Consumer Value Awards

Brands may compete loudly for visibility, but only a few rise to the level of genuine consumer affection, and Terra Seasoning Cube is one of those brands. The brand has made its mark through the taste, trust, and the everyday moments that it elevates in Nigerian kitchens. That story took on a new shine at the 4th edition of the Consumer Value Awards held on Wednesday, 26th November 2025, where Terra emerged as the Best Seasoning Brand with an overwhelming 76% of consumer votes.

The Consumer Value Awards has grown as one of Nigeria’s most credible recognition platforms, operating strictly on a transparent, consumer-led system where Nigerians nominate and vote for the brands that truly deliver value. It was within this trusted framework that the selection process began earlier in the year, when the organisers opened nominations to consumers and industry stakeholders across the country. Nigerians were invited to put forward brands they believed had stayed true to their promises, and Terra Seasoning Cube quickly gained multiple nominations, an early sign that its impact was deeply felt across households and regions.

for over two months, consumers once again demonstrated their loyalty and trust. In this highly competitive category, Terra surged ahead, capturing 76% of the total votes, clearly outshining other brands and reaffirming its position at the heart of everyday cooking experiences in Nigerian homes. The importance of this recognition lies in the brand values, real consumers, real votes, and real satisfaction.

When voting remained open

A key part of Terra Cube’s success lies in its understanding of Nigeria’s diverse culinary preferences. Food in Nigeria is colourful, expressive, and deeply tied to culture, and Terra has crafted flavours that speak to these realities.

Heirs Insurance Celebrates Travel Insurance Festival

Ebere Nwoji

Heirs Insurance recently celebrated its Travel Insurance Festival bringing together travel enthusiasts, diplomats, creatives, business owners, and young Nigerians to celebrate cultural diversity and make a bold call for equity in travel policies and processes. The underwriting company said the event which was more than a

cultural celebration, served as a strategic advocacy platform, spotlighting the foreign policies, systems, and bilateral agreements that must evolve to expand travel opportunities for millions of Africans.

Speaking at the event, Chief Marketing Officer of Heirs Insurance Group, Ifesinachi Okpanku, said the festival which has the theme “Promoting Cultural Diversity and an Inclusive

Travel Ecosystem,” opened with a high-level panel on “Passport Power and Diplomacy,” featuring a Brazilian diplomat with five decades of service across four continents; Ambassador Manuel Innocencio de Lacerda Santos Junior, Angola’s Ambassador to Nigeria Ambassador Jose Bamóquina Zau, CEO, SBB Media and former CNN Senior Editor; Stephanie Busari.

(Gabon),

(Iraq),

Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny

(Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

L-R: Representative of the chairman of the occasion, Mr. Nowel Ngala; Representative of Minister of Aviation Mrs. Obiageli Orah; Guest Speaker/ former DG NCAA, Dr. Harold Demuren and the Host/ Chief Executive officer, SAPTCO Communication Limited, Mr. Sam Adurogboye, during the Maiden Inaugural Lecture to Unviel SAPTCO Communication Limited in Lagos...recently.

Eterna Targets N21.52bn via Rights Issue to Fund Expansion, Others

Kayode Tokede

Eterna Plc said it has finalised arrangements for a rights issue of 978,108,485 ordinary shares at N22.00 per share, expected to raise approximately N21.52 billion.

The capital raise, it said, is designed to strengthen the company’s balance sheet and support strategic expansion across its business segments.

The formal signing ceremony for the Rights Issue was held in Lagos, marking a major milestone in the company’s capital-raising programme, following shareholder approval at the Annual General Meeting in July 2025.

Under the structure of the Rights Issue, existing shareholders are entitled to subscribe for three (3) new ordinary shares of 50 kobo each for every four (4) ordinary

shares held as at the close of business on November 27, 2025.

The subscription period will run from January 12, 2026, when the Acceptance List opens, to February 18, 2026, when it officially closes. All new shares issued will rank pari passu with existing ordinary shares.

This capital raise follows Eterna Plc’s strong financial performance in recent years.

The company recorded a 71per cent increase in revenue to N313.6 billion in 2024, compared to N183.2 billion in 2023.

It also returned to profitability with a profit before tax of N4.48 billion, representing a significant turnaround from the N11.97 billion loss recorded in 2023.

The positive financial momentum has continued into 2025, with half-year results showing a 6.9per cent increase

in consolidated revenue and a 143.9per cent rise in profit before tax to N1.57 billion, compared to the same period in 2024.

Proceeds from the Rights Issue will be deployed to support several strategic initiatives, including the expansion of the retail network, upgrading of the lubricant blending plant, enhancement of LPG retail assets, acquisition of commercial delivery assets,

expansion of aviation fueling operations, and investment in ESG-related projects.

A portion of the capital raised will also serve as an operational working capital buffer to enhance day-to-day liquidity, including inventory financing and short-term trade payables. This is expected to provide resilience against market volatility, foreign exchange fluctuations, and potential supply disruptions.

Bamidele Urges YABATECH Graduates to Embrace Digital Skills for Job Creation

Uchechukwu Nnaike

Considering the bleak future for fresh graduates, due to shrinking opportunities to secure paid jobs or build generational wealth, the Leader of the 10th Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, has canvassed greater investments in digital technologies and entrepreneurial training as measures to address the country’s youth unemployment rate.

He made this recommendation recently while delivering the 37th convocation lecture of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) titled ‘Entrepreneurship Development in the Digital Age: Leveraging Technology for Job Creation and Economic Growth’.

Bamidele pointed out that trends worldwide, whether in established or emerging economies, show that it is no longer tenable for governments to provide white-collar jobs for graduates from higher institutions.

He highlighted the emergence of the digital economy, which he said has been driven by new technologies and digital skills. He explained the roles of the younger generations, especially new graduates, in driving the country’s digital economy through new technologies and the requisite skills in blockchain, data analytics, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, web development, content marketing, cloud computing, immersive technologies, and other forms of digital marketing.

He also emphasised the centrality of digital skills “to the world of the 21st century”. He argued that countries seeking economic growth and sustainability in the present world should prioritise the need to import innovative knowledge and digital skills for the advantage of their people, especially the youth population”.

While stressing that it is no longer realistic for governments to provide white-collar jobs for all young graduates of tertiary institutions, he said, “The governments have now assumed the positions of creating environments that can enable creativity, innovation and invention.”

He added that governments “are seriously looking for ways to prune down the cost of governance and taking bold measures to drive innovations through synergy with the private sector”. According to him, this is evident in the

recent resolve of the National Assembly to enact the Nigeria Data Protection Commission Act, 2025, to reflect new realities in the country’s digital environment.

Bamidele also explained the strategic national significance of the 2024 National Digital Economy and E-governance Act. Enacted by the 10th National Assembly. He said the legislation, which came into force in July 2024, attests to the federal government’s readiness to take advantage of the new skills and technologies generously offered.

He explained that the act effectively “defines the country’s digital economic environment. Its mandates primarily include enhancing the use of digital technology to grow Nigeria’s economy; creating an enabling environment for fair competition to promote innovation, growth, and competitiveness for the Nigerian digital economy; and enabling the digital transformation of public institutions and government processes for efficient and effective service delivery, among others.

With these reforms, the Senate leader encouraged the 8,000 fresh graduates to embrace the new technologies and acquire digital skills, pointing out that the new wave of technological revolution and the attendant emergence of digital economies around the world indicated that countries determined to survive the prevailing global economic realities should prioritise the impartation of innovative knowledge and technical skills in their young people.

“This is the secret behind the exponential growth of emerging economies in Asia. To attain a similar feat in Nigeria, our policymakers and state actors must prioritise entrepreneurship training,” stated Bamidele. “We must also incorporate

the development of technical skills, creative innovation, digital education, problem-solving skills, the imparting of managerial capacity and interpersonal relationship development in our educational curricula from the primary to tertiary levels.”

The politician recalled the essence of establishing YABATECH: to provide full-time and part-time training in technology, applied science, commerce and management, agricultural production and distribution, and research. The senator observed that the institution’s priority in developing technology, creative innovation, and entrepreneurship training could not be overemphasised. For Bamidele, it is an eloquent testimony to the depth of the vision of past leaders who played a vital role in its establishment. He, however, challenged the college’s leadership to come up with more initiatives that would revolutionise the country’s digital education and transformation. He admitted that public institutions cannot drive the process alone, and called on the private sector “to focus on mentorship and networking by pairing upcoming entrepreneurs with experienced ones; creating peer communities; facilitating access to markets”.

The Chairman of the governing council of the college, Prof Funso Afolabi, said the lecture topic was timely and profoundly strategic, saying that the essence was to prepare the new graduates to navigate the challenge of shrinking opportunities. Afolabi commended the guest lecturer for prioritising matters of public interest above his personal comfort, saying that the institution was honoured to have Bamidele, a seasoned legislator, an advocate for youth empowerment, and a passionate voice for national progress, as a guest lecturer.

FCT Teacher, Serah Yusuf, Emerges as 2025 Maltina Teacher of the Year

A teacher at Wisdom International School of Excellence (WISE), FCT Abuja, Serah Yusuf, has emerged the winner of the 11th Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition at the grand finale held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos. Yusuf received a cash prize of ₦10 million, an all-expense-paid overseas capacity development training, and a ₦30 million infrastructure project to be built in her school by the Nigerian Breweries-Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund. The first runner-up, Adeola Akinsulure from Omole Senior Grammar School, Lagos, received ₦5 million. In contrast, the second runner-up, Chibuzor Amarikwa from Deeper Life High School, Kwana-Waya Village, Yola, Adamawa State, received ₦3 million. Twenty-four other

teachers who emerged as state champions received ₦1 million each for their outstanding performance and commitment to excellence in teaching.

The special guest, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, represented by the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperative, Trade and Investment, Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, commended the initiative for elevating the teaching profession and reinforcing its value to society.

Sanwo-Olu thanked the trust fund for its enduring commitment to celebrating teachers, supporting schools, and investing in the future of Nigerian children.

“Nigerian Breweries, what you’re doing here today goes beyond corporate social responsibility; it is simply nation-building. Tonight, we honour the remarkable men and women whose passion, resilience, and creativity shape destinies and prepare our children not just for exams, but for life,” he said.

The governor congratulated the overall winner, urging her to carry the honour with pride and humility as an ambassador of excellence for young people nationwide.

“To every teacher being recognised today, whether you leave with a trophy or not, Lagos State celebrates you, and Nigeria celebrates you. You are the heroes whose work often goes unnoticed, yet whose impact is profound - resounding in

every success, every breakthrough, and every community that thrives,” he added.

The Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, described the initiative as a notable partnership between the private sector and government in recognising those who devote their lives to nurturing the next generation.

“Today is a powerful reminder that teachers are the true architects of national transformation. Behind every thriving society lies a corps of educators whose daily labour shapes minds, nurtures values, and builds the foundation for future progress,” Ahmad said. She applauded the trust fund for its sustained investment in education and the professional dignity of teachers.

BIC, Raising Star Foundation Inaugurate Solar-powered Classrooms in Sari-Iganmu School

Funmi Ogundare

As part of efforts to strengthen inclusive education, BIC recently unveiled three newly renovated solar-powered classrooms at SariIganmu Inclusive School.

The project, delivered in partnership with the Raising Star Africa Foundation (RSAF), was part of BIC’s Global Education Week (GEW) 2025 activities and was designed to provide safer, more accessible, and technology-enabled learning spaces for differently-abled students.

The upgraded classrooms integrate renewable energy, modern learning tools, and essential infrastructure improvements tailored to support inclusive education. The initiative seeks to

ensure uninterrupted learning, foster creativity, and inspire self-expression among children of all abilities.

Speaking at the ribbon-cutting ceremony in Lagos, Anthony Amahwe, General Manager of BIC Nigeria, stated, “Improving learning conditions for students, especially in underserved communities, remains central to BIC’s purpose. By transforming these classrooms into solar-powered, inclusive spaces, we are enabling children to learn comfortably, safely, and creatively.”

He added that the project contributes to BIC’s global ambition to improve

learning conditions for 250 million students by the end of 2025.

Michael Showunmi, Founder of RSAF, commended the long-standing partnership with BIC, noting that the investment would enhance access to quality education for students requiring additional support and help create a more inclusive school ecosystem.

The launch also featured a creative colouring workshop to encourage students’ selfexpression. Classrooms were equipped with essential writing tools and learning materials to support daily academic activities and boost students’ confidence.

In addition, BIC awarded ₦ 1 million each to two of the longest-serving teachers at Sari-

Iganmu Inclusive School, in recognition of their dedication and service.

The Headteacher, Mrs Aishat Oladeji, expressed gratitude for the renovations and donations, saying, “An improved and modernised environment enhances learning for every child, and these renovations will greatly motivate and inspire our differentlyabled learners.”

Over the past three years, BIC has partnered with organisations such as Let It Shine Academy (LISA), Morit International School, and the Igando Inclusive Unit to renovate classrooms, provide thousands of writing materials, and train hundreds of teachers through its educator development program, Canvas of Change.

For the 3rd Time, Nigeria’s ‘PadHer’ Initiative Named One of World’s Most Impactful Education Solutions

Omolabake Fasogbon

In a major milestone for African-led innovation, ‘PadHer’ - the menstrual health education initiative founded in Nigeria by social entrepreneur Chika Nwaogu - has been named one of the world’s 100 most impactful and scalable innovations in education, by HundrED, for the third time.

This achievement places PadHer among a select group of innovations globally to earn the recognition multiple times, and the only

innovation originating from Nigeria to be honoured this many times by the international education non-profit.

HundrED’s annual Global Collection highlights breakthrough solutions transforming education systems around the world, and PadHer’s consistent appearance on the list underscores the strength, sustainability and growing impact of its work across Africa.

PadHer recently secured $140,000 in funding to reach 3,500 schoolgirls in

Ghana with comprehensive menstrual health education, comic-based learning, and access to reusable sanitary products.

In the first phase of the project, PadHer, in partnership with Girls Club Ghana and with the instrumental support of EJY Foundation - has already reached 1,750 girls in the Volta Region of Ghana, delivering fun, stigma-free menstrual health workshops and equipping girls with the knowledge and tools they need to manage their periods with dignity.

This marks the successful completion of

half of PadHer’s Ghana target. With the Volta phase completed, PadHer is now preparing to move into the Ahafo and Eastern Regions of Ghana to impact the remaining 1,750 girls, completing its goal of reaching 3,500 girls under the project. This strategic shift was made to better align with the funder’s commitment to supporting enabling environments in cocoa-growing communities, where many girls still face deep-rooted stigma and limited access to menstrual health education and products.

Bamidele

Gamin G Week

Edited by nseobonG okon-ekonG |

CASH TOKEN: Transforming Customer Loyalty into a Prosperity-Driven Ecosystem

writes that the Cash Token experience is simple, transparent, and rewarding. Each purchase presents an opportunity to receive instant gratification in the form of cash or to participate in draws that could yield substantial financial rewards

Paradigm shift in customer engagement

Cash Token was conceived as a response to a long-standing gap in the loyalty and rewards industry — the absence of a universally appealing incentive model that delivers tangible benefits to consumers. Traditional loyalty programmes often rely on points, discounts, or product-based gifts. While these have their place, they rarely generate the kind of emotional and financial satisfaction that motivates lasting loyalty.

Cash Token takes a distinctly different approach. It allows participating businesses to reward repeat and regular customers with tokens that translate into direct cash rewards. Each transaction gives the customer a chance to win guaranteed cash or lifechanging jackpots through transparent, technology-driven draws.

This approach not only sustains consumer excitement but also fosters a sense of shared prosperity — a concept central to Labode’s business philosophy.

The vision of Lai Labode

At the helm of Cash Token is Lai Labode, an accomplished entrepreneur known for his ability to identify systemic inefficiencies and convert them into scalable business solutions. His vision for Cash Token was to democratize loyalty — to make it inclusive,

Winners All at LSLGA Gala Night

Mr. Bashir Are, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State Lottery and Gaming Authority captured the of the Operators’ Gala Night/Awards. He said it was about partnership and progress. “We are gathered not just as regulators and operators, but as collaborators working to build a gaming industry defined by integrity, innovation, responsible gaming, and sustainable growth,” said Are. Here is a breakdown of the honourees as captured by Nseobong Okon-Ekong

measurable, and rewarding in the most practical way possible.

Labode’s leadership has positioned Cash Token as a bridge between commerce and social impact.

“Every transaction should be an opportunity for value creation — not just for the business, but for the customer as well,” he has often stated.

This guiding principle continues to shape the company’s operations and partnerships across industries.

Win-win proposition for businesses and consumers

For businesses, Cash Token offers a plug-and-play loyalty infrastructure that enhances customer retention, increases repeat sales, and strengthens brand equity. By integrating Cash Token into their operations, organizations can transform ordinary transactions into value-driven engagements that inspire long-term patronage.

Participating companies also benefit from data intelligence generated through the system. Insights into consumer behaviour, spending patterns, and engagement levels enable better decision-making and more personalised marketing strategies. For customers, the experience is simple, transparent, and rewarding. Each purchase presents an opportunity to receive instant gratification in the form of cash or to participate in draws that could yield substantial financial rewards. The model thereby turns everyday spending into a source of excitement and empowerment.

Technology and transparency at the core

Cash Token’s architecture is powered by robust digital infrastructure designed to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability. Its processes are fully automated — from token issuance to reward disbursement — minimising human interference and maximising user confidence. Through integration with mobile networks, banking platforms, and retail systems, the company has built a scalable and secure environment that supports high-volume transactions and real-time notifications.

Senate Extends Death Penalty to Kidnapers, Their Financiers, Informants

Begins probe of safe school programme, vows to track every kobo Senator wants banks probed for ransom We’re building police force that is disciplined, focused, says Egbetokun

Sunday Aborisade and Linus Aleke in Abuja

Senate, yesterday, advanced amendments to the 2022 Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, approving provisions that extend the death penalty to all actors involved in kidnapping.

The categories included perpetrators, financiers, informants, logistics suppliers, harbourers, transporters, and anyone who knowingly aided criminal abductions.

The bill, sponsored by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, sought to categorise kidnapping, hostage-taking and their ancillary crimes as terrorism nationwide, grant-

ing security agencies broader investigative powers to trace illicit financial flows, disrupt logistics networks, and execute intelligence-driven counterterrorism operations.

Debated extensively during plenary presided by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, the amendment received firm, bipartisan support as a sweeping offensive aimed at dismantling Nigeria’s deepening kidnapping crisis.

Akpabio referred the bill to the committees on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, National Security and Intelligence, and Interior, with a mandate to conduct a public hearing and return their report within two weeks.

Bamidele, leading the debate, said kidnapping in Nigeria had transformed into “coordinated, commercialised and militarised violence” that now mirrored terrorism in organisation and brutality.

He said families were being impoverished by ransom payments, communities paralysed by fear, and entire regions destabilised by rampant abductions.

“This is no longer an ordinary crime. The patterns of operation and the sheer ruthlessness now carry all the characteristics of terrorism,” he stated.

He stressed that the amendment targeted only violent of- fenders and their networks, not innocent communities, adding

that prosecutions would fully comply with constitutional safeguards.Chairman of Committee on Interior, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, backed the bill, but dismissed the country’s de-radicalisation programme as ineffective.

Oshiomhole said, “Some of these guys go back to their crimes. Enough is enough. If you are convicted for terrorism, the penalty should be death. Even the Bible and Quran affirm that he who kills has no right to live.”

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, Chair of the South-East Development Commission Committee, said Nigerians had suffered long enough from the atrocities of

kidnappers.

Kalu said, “Young girls are raped. Women are widowed. Families lose breadwinners.

Anyone involved, sponsors, informants, logistics suppliers, must face the consequences.”

Another concern emerged from Senator Victor Umeh, Chairman of the Committee on National Population and NIMC, who called for urgent scrutiny of financial institutions through which ransom pay- ments were made.

“It beats the imagination that ransoms running into hundreds of millions are paid through financial institutions and nothing happens,” Umeh said.

According to him, banks

and individuals who facilitate ransom transactions must be identified and held liable, while the law must provide explicit sanctions for such complicity. Umeh said, “When kidnappers are caught, they should know that the price is death. Those who survive the ordeal

Continued on page 41

Insecurity: NEC Approves N100 Billion for Repairing

Deji Elumoye, Linus Aleke in Abuja and Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

Training Institutions for Security

Economic reforms must deliver visible impact to Nigerians across states, Shettima declares Bandits issue one-week ultimatum to Kwara community to pay N300m on 10 abductees Commander orders troops to stamp out bandits in Sokoto 2025 - $525,823.39; Stabilisation Account Balance as at November, 2025 - N71,647,494,101.12; and Natural Resources Development Account Balance as at November, 2025 - N79,252,769,532.35.

National Economic Council (NEC), yesterday, approved the sum of N100 billion, subject to a final ratification by President Bola Tinubu, for rehabilitation of training institutions for police and other security agencies in Nigeria.

The approval at the monthly meeting followed recommenda- tions by an ad hoc committee earlier constituted to assess the state of the police and other security agencies’ training institutions nationwide.

At its 154th meeting held

virtually, NEC also approved N2.6 billion for consultancy services for the project.

Tinubu had at the 152nd meeting of NEC in October, proposed the overhaul and revamp of training institutions for security agencies nationwide.

Chairman of the ad-hoc committee, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, had in his presentation to the council, underscored the urgency and significance of the condition of the training facilities, saying most of the training institutions are in dire conditions.

Following the presentation by Mbah, Chairman of NEC, Vice President Kashim Shettima,

reaffirmed the commitment of the federal government to address the situation.

Shettima charged governors to ensure that economic reforms by the state governments translated into clear, measurable improve- ments in the lives of Nigerians.

Stating that governance was meaningful only when citizens could feel its impact, the vice president urged all tiers of government to focus on execution rather than rhetoric.

According to him, the era of policy without results must give way to governance defined by tangible outcomes in communi- ties across the country.

Shettima stated, “Our task is

not to admire problems, but to solve them. Not to explain chal- lenges, but to overcome them. And not to hope for progress, but to engineer it.

“Today’s agenda speaks to our shared responsibility to build a nation where reforms translate into results, and where policies are not mere promises but convincing instruments of change felt in the markets, schools, clinics and farms across our federation.”

Highlights of the meeting included an update given by Accountant-General of the Federation on the following accounts: Excess Crude Account (ECA) Balance as of November,

The presentation was made to FEC by Chairman of NEC Ad-hoc Committee on Polio Eradication, Governor Muhammad Yahaya of Gombe State.

detections, 12 cVPV2 and 1 cVPV3 have been confirmed across the country. Notably, Gombe detected its first cases of the year—one in Dukku LGA (Acute Flaccid Paralysis) and one in Gombe LGA (environmental surveillance).”

Worl D B A nk’ S $750m Suppor T Y I el DS $2.2 B n S TAT e-level Inve ST men TS u n D er n G-CA re S Chase revealed that World Bank’s $750 million support to the country, under the Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES), had currently been leveraged by over $2.2 billion in state-level investments.

He commended the strong national ownership of NG- CARES, a financial instrument that seeks to mitigate the effect of the COVID-19 crisis on the livelihoods of poor individuals, farmers, vulnerable households, communities, and owners of micro and small enterprises.

The next phase, he explained, will expand cash transfers, identification systems, and livelihood support in alignment with World Bank’s Country Partnership Framework for Nigeria.

During the visit, the federal government and World Bank reaffirmed their commitment to expanding social protection systems and economic opportunities for poor and vulnerable citizens.

Bagudu expressed deep appreciation for the develop- ment institution’s continuous support, stating that Nigeria’s macroeconomic reforms and social protection programmes have benefited substantially from the partnership.

Chase stated that the first phase of NG-CARES will be concluded this year, with additional financing expected to become effective by December 9 and fully launched in January 2026, to ensure seamless implementation.

He also welcomed the ministry’s new Permanent Secretary, Dr. Deborah Odoh, to her first formal engagement with the bank, commending her strategic expertise and leadership in social policy and reform implementation.

The minister stated that the Nigerian constitution mandated the federal, state, and local governments to pursue shared national objectives, including social welfare and inclusive development.

He explained that the legal framework guided the ministry’s leadership in coordinating social protection policies and ensuring alignment across all tiers of government.

Bagudu highlighted the importance of coherence in social enhancement programmes,

including NG-CARES, Nigeria for Women Project, and HOPE Agenda, pointing out that they should operate in a harmonised ecosystem.

He advocated functional ward-level governance structures to prevent overlaps, resolve conflicts, and strengthen community participation and sustainability.

Speaking on poverty prevalence, the minister explained that although most Nigerians were hardworking, they were trapped in poverty because their economic returns were limited.

He emphasised the urgency of scaling interventions that support livelihoods, enhance resilience, and expand opportunities, particularly amid internal displacement and

FEC stated that since the NEC Ad-Hoc Committee on Polio was inaugurated earlier this year, the committee had met four times—between June and November. Each meeting had deepened political commitment, strengthened coordination, and ensured that states remained firmly engaged in the national push to interrupt the remaining variant poliovirus transmission, Yahaya stated.

On progress to date, FEC stated that as of week 47, Nigeria recorded 73 cases of circulating variant poliovirus type 2 (cVPV2), a 39 per cent reduction from the 119 cases recorded during the same period in 2024.

He said six priority states accounted for 63 per cent of the cases, with the majority coming from Sokoto (23), Zamfara (9), Kebbi (7), Gombe (2), Kano (3), and Katsina (2).

He said of particular emphasis was the progress made in the two states that had historically carried the highest burden, explaining that Kano has achieved 94 per cent decline in cases, compared to last year, and Katsina has recorded an 88 per cent Yahayadecline.stated, “13 new

Kebbi, Sokoto, Jigawa, Nasarawa and Zamfara also reported new cases, highlighting the need for intensified action, the governor said. The first phase of the inte- grated Measles–Rubella, HPV, and Polio campaign took place across 20 northern states and Oyo. The exercise delivered meaningful gains, as 83 per cent of all planned settlements were reached with geo-evidence; 92 per cent and 95 per cent of targeted children received the MR vaccine and polio vaccine, respectively; and LQAS results showed 85 per cent pass for MR and 86 per cent for polio

The Gombe State governor stated, “In the six priority states: i. Kano, Katsina, and Gombe passed LQAS, showing strong campaign quality. ii. Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara did not meet the 80 per cent threshold for LQAS, and revaccination conducted in the affected LGAs.

“A new round of nOPV2 campaigns will commence this December. The implementation will occur in two blocs: i. Bloc A (12 northern states)—including Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara ii. Bloc B (9 northern states)—including Gombe. “This round is critical. It presents an opportunity for us

Senate President Godswill Akpabio

AMCON YEAR-END MEDIA PARLEY...

R–L: Head, General Enforcement, Resolution Directorate, Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), Mr. Gbolahan Odutayo; Head, Corporate Communications Department, Mr. Jude Nwauzor; Company Secretary, Mrs. Oyinlola Adebayo; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Gbenga Alade; Executive Director, Resolution, Mr. Adeshola Lamidi; Team Member, Corporate Communications Department, Ms. Hauwau Ibrahim; and Technical Assistant to the MD/CEO, Mr. Mohammed Yusuf, at the AMCON Year-End Media Parley at

FEC Okays $100m Youth Investment Fund, Approves 2026-

2028 MTEF, Prioritises Growth, Security, Human Capital

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

MTEF prepares road for 2026 budget as ministers address revenue gaps, capital rollovers FG to boost agriculture, digital connectivity in underserved communities Tinubu swears in five perm secs, NPC chairman, others need for strict prioritisation in government spending.

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) on Wednesday, at its 10th meeting in 2025, approved a $100 million African Development Bank (AfDB) loan for Youth Investment Fund, a programme designed to support young Nigerian entrepreneurs from age 18 to 35 across micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, disclosed the scheme, when he briefed newsmen after the FEC meeting presided by President Bola Tinubu at State House, Abuja. Edun said the fund will offer equity, debt, grants, and other

forms of financial support to empower young people at the grassroots.

He said FEC also approved financing from the Islamic Development Bank for the UBAS Integrated Agricultural Development Project, as longterm, concessional funding from multilateral development partners aimed at boosting

inclusive growth.

Edun explained that the highlight of Wednesday’s FEC meeting was the presentation of the 2026–2028 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and Fiscal Strategy Paper.

According to him, Tinubu commended ministers for their commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda and stressed the

Senate Clears Tinubu’s Three Envoys, Declares Nominees Fit

The Senate yesterday cleared three ambassadorial nominees forwarded by President Bola Tinubu, affirming that the candidates possess the experi- ence, integrity and competence required to represent Nigeria at the global stage. Those confirmed included a former Director General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ayodele Oke (Oyo State); former Director General, State Security Service (SSS), Kayode Are (Ogun State); and Aminu Dalhatu (Jigawa State).

Chairman of the Senate

Committee on Foreign Affairs, Senator Sani Bello, who presented the report during plenary, said the committee found all three nominees “sufficiently qualified and well-prepared” for ambas- sadorial responsibilities.

He said: “The members of the committee were satisfied with the answers given. The nominees are well-experienced in their various fields and have been in the system for quite a while. They have the requisite experi- ence, dedication, and capacity to serve as ambassadors. The committee unanimously agreed that the President made excellent choices.”

The screening of Ambassador Oke drew particular interest, following longstanding public debates surrounding his tenure as NIA DG and the 2017 controversy linked to the agency.

Addressing senators, Oke thanked the lawmakers for allowing him to respond publicly to issues that had “lingered in the media space.”

He recounted his four-year stewardship at the intelligence agency, noting that he left behind an institution that recorded “historic operational and structural advancements.”

He said: “Without delving into sensitive national security matters,

NICON Town Land Dispute: Residents Challenge Procedure, Urge Court to Order Full Trial

Wale Igbintade

A major procedural battle has erupted in the long-running land ownership dispute in NICON Town Estate, Lekki, as residents and plots owners have asked a Lagos State High Court to reject the originating summons filed by Harris Dredging Limited and Nicon Town Management Company Plc (NTMC), insisting

that only a full trial can properly resolve the controversy.

The defendants, comprising the Incorporated Trustees of the NICON Town Residents and Plot Owners’ Association and 14 individual homeowners, told the court sitting at Tafawa Balewa Square that the claimants’ choice of originating summons is “fundamentally unsuitable” for a dispute they say is

saturated with allegations of fraud, disputed documents, conflicting agreements and competing accounts of the estate’s history.

Harris Dredging and NTMC had filed Suit No. LD/5141/ LM/2024 seeking judicial con- firmation of Harris Dredging’s alleged title to a 5,899.31 square metre parcel of land within the estate’s Community Centre Zone.

permit me to state that under my leadership, the NIA attained heights never reached in its 30 years before my appointment.

The best ‘comfort’ centre in this country today was built under my watch. When I assumed office it was a mere field.”

Oke admitted that his tenure came with significant challenges, particularly during a covert national operation that received the approval and firm support of two presidents.

He said the president directed ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) to channel capital expenditure into growthenhancing projects, strategic legacy infrastructure, and programmes with the highest economic impact.

Edun also referred to National Bureau of Statistics data showing Nigeria’s economy grew by 3.89 per cent in Q3 2025 yearon-year, with agriculture and industry expanding and inflation easing, though still below the administration’s seven per cent annual growth target.

“The emphasis is on improving expenditure efficiency and ensuring maximum value for every naira,” the minister said, adding that the economic management team is collating sectoral priorities for the president’s final approval.

Edun stated that the 2024 capital budget, extended for nearly a year by the National Assembly, had been “largely

fulfilled”.

He added that the 2025 capital releases were progressing, with warrants issued and ministries expected to conclude utilisation by December 30. Edun said while the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning will lead on the 2026 proposals, he was available to support as necessary.

He highlighted the approval of a new $50 million Islamic Development Bank-financed agricultural development project for Bauchi State as part of FEC’s efforts to strengthen capital budgeting and restore the January-December budget cycle.

Shedding more light on the fiscal framework, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, announced that FEC had adopted the 2026-2028 MTEF, developed in collaboration with the Economic Management Team, private sector, civil society and development partners to reflect national priorities.

Aviation: Ganduje Canvasses

As FAAN board meets in Abuja

Chairman, Governing Board of Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Dr. Abdullah Ganduje, has called on stakeholders to renew their collective commitment to strengthening the aviation sector and preparing it for the future.

Ganduje made the call on Wednesday while addressing participants at a four-day FAAN Board

and Stakeholders Retreat in Abuja.

While highlighting the theme of the retreat, “FutureProofing FAAN: Leadership, Modernisation and Strategic Renewal,” Ganduje stressed the need for continuous evolution, innovation, and collaboration to ensure longterm resilience, efficiency, and global relevance.

According to him, “We must continuously evolve, anticipate emerging trends

and adopt innovative approaches that ensure longterm resilience, efficiency, and global relevance.”

The former governor of Kano State and immediate past Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Party (APC) expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his Renewed Hope Agenda, which had led to reforms, revitalising Nigeria’s airports and strengthening the aviation ecosystem.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, yesterday

Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

Ex-NIA DG, Ayodele Oke recounts ordeal

68TH INDUCTION CEREMONY OF CIPM...

Minister: FG Completes 6,700 Water Projects Nationwide

Targets food security through irrigation 32 million Nigerians now have access to clean water

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

The federal government has completed 6,700 water supply projects across the country, providing access to safe water for about 32 million Nigerians, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Utsev, said on Wednesday.

Utsev, who spoke at a citizens and stakeholders’ engagement in Abuja, said the projects were part of ongoing efforts to improve access to water, expand irrigation for food production, and strengthen flood control systems.

He stated that flagship projects, such as the Kashimbilla Multipurpose Dam, with a 40-megawatt hydropower facility, had been fully completed and commissioned, while the Mangu, Adada, and Ogbesse dams were at advanced stages of completion.

He stated that the ministry had also completed or upgraded several smaller dams and reservoirs in Bauchi, Kano, Taraba, and other states.

Utsev said, “We have transformed Nigeria’s water and sanitation landscape by expanding irrigation for food production and harnessing our water resources for clean energy generation.

“Through our public-private partnership initiatives, we have generated over N7 billion in revenue for government while ensuring compliance with national concession regulations.”

He stated that the federal government, through its River Basin Development Authorities, had developed over 154,000 hectares of irrigable land, directly benefiting about 1.6 million farmers and boosting local food production.

According to him, the ministry has also trained more than 1,500 youths in

borehole drilling and water technology to promote local skills and sustainability in the sector.

On sanitation, Utsev revealed that 5,238 public sanitation facilities had been constructed nationwide, while 162 local government areas had been certified

open-defecation-free, with Jigawa and Benue achieving state-wide ODF status.

He said the government had identified over 10,000 flood-prone communities across 176 local government areas in 23 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as part of its proac-

tive flood-risk management programme.

He stated, “We have introduced several innovative flood control measures, including a National Flood Insurance Programme, now being piloted in Kogi and Anambra states.

“The ministry remains in close communication with Cameroonian authorities on water releases and will promptly notify Nigerians of any official updates.”

Responding to questions on project financing, Utsev said full expenditure records were available at the ministry’s headquarters for verification.

NUC Receives €3m of $40m Loan to Kickstart ICT Projects in 10 Selected Varsities

As board targets reforms, better global rankings

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

The National Universities Commission (NUC) says it has received 3 million euros as the first tranche of the $40 million loan secured from the French Development Agency to support Informa- tion, Communication and Technology (ICT) projects

Senate to Overhaul Legal Profession, Approves Mandatory Two-Year Pupillage for New Lawyers

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The Senate on Wednesday advanced sweeping reforms to Nigeria’s legal profession as it passed for second reading a bill proposing a mandatory two-year pupillage for all newly called lawyers.

The measure, lawmakers said, is designed to modernise legal training and strengthen profes- sional standards in line with contemporary global practice.

Debating the bill sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, senators agreed

that the Legal Practitioners Act, 2004, largely rooted in frameworks established nearly six decades ago, no longer reflects the demands of today’s legal environment, characterised by digital court systems, complex cross-border transactions, and heightened accountability expectations.

Presiding over the session, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin declared the amendment essential to “holistic reform” of the profession, after which the chamber referred the bill to the Committee on Judiciary,

Human Rights and Legal Mat- ters for public hearing within two weeks.

Bamidele, in his lead presentation, stressed the bill seeks to overhaul the country’s legal regulatory architecture by restructuring and empowering the Body of Benchers as the apex oversight body.

The reforms include granting it corporate legal personality, financial autonomy, a strength- ened secretariat, enhanced rule-making powers, and an institutionalised committee structure.

in 10 selected universities across the country.

Executive Secretary of the Commission, Prof. Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, announced this during the inaugural meeting of the 13th NUC Board on Wednesday at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

Ribadu noted that since assuming office about a year ago, the Commission has pushed forward several initiatives centred on research, entrepreneurship,

digital transformation and skills development across Nigerian universities.

His words: “We have secured $40 million loan from the French Development Agency for the ICT Blueprint Project in 10 selected universities. We have strengthened - only yesterday, the Director confirmed to me that the first tranche of 3 million euros has been deposited in our CBN account to kick-start the process.

“We have strengthened internal financial management, expanded access to university education through the licensing of new private universities, and approved new programs and units.

“We have also supported the take-off of publicly funded universities, expanded open and distance learning centers, and continued system-wide quality assurance exercises. Currently, the 2025 Accreditation Exercise is ongoing.

Kalu: 10th House Views Economic Exclusion of PWDs as Economic Sabotage

Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ben Kalu, has said the 10th House is of the view the economic exclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) not just as a human rights violation, but as economic sabotage. Kalu stated this on

Wednesday in Abuja at the Policy Forum on Advancing Workplace Inclusion for Persons with Disabilities organised by the Shehu Musa Yar’adua Foundation in partnership with Australian High Commission, Irede Foundation, Christian Aid, Inclusive Friends, Ceder Seed Foundation, among others.

He stressed the enactment of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act in 2018 was a watershed moment for the nation.

The Deputy Speaker noted the Disability Act signaled the end of exclusion and the beginning of a rights-based approach to disability in Nigeria.

L–R: Guest Speaker, Mr. Kayode Abe; Vice President, Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM), Mrs. Chidinma Obiejesi; President and Chairman of the Governing Council of CIPM, Mallam Ahmed Ladan Gobir; National Treasurer of CIPM, Mrs. Ogochukwu Egbuonu; and Registrar/Chief Executive, Ms. Oluwatoyin Naiwo, at the 68th Induction Ceremony of CIPM held in Lagos, Nigeria… recently

TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY STAKEHOLDERS ENGAGEMENT SUMMIT...

L–R: Nigerian Disc Jockey, Syndik8 Records’ Official, Mr. Obinna Levi Ajuonuma; Managing Director, Marriott Hotel, Mr. Chike Ogeah; Assistant Director, Standards Organisation of Nigeria, Mrs. Chidinma Ewuzie; Lagos State Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila; Director, Enforcement and Investigation, NAFDAC, Dr. Martins Iluyomade; Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka; Deputy Commander of Narcotics, NDLEA, Mr. James Akogwu; Managing Director, Nazal Lagos, Mr. Joey Nazal; President, Restaurant, Cafés, Bars and Club Association, Mrs. Morenike George-Taylor; Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso; and Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on e-GIS and Urban Development, Dr. Olajide Abiodun Babatunde, during the Tourism and Hospitality Stakeholders Engagement Summit, Victoria Island, Lagos… recently

NSITF: Why We’re Backing Removal of ‘Insurance’ From Our Name

Adedayo

The Managing Director/Chief Executive of the National Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Oluwaseun Faleye has described the proposed removal of the term ‘Insurance’ from the NSITF as a welcomed development, saying it impedes the acceptance of Employees’ Compensation Scheme.

Faleye made this known yesterday, in Abuja, in memoranda he presented during the public hearing for the enactment of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund Bill, 2025 at the National Assembly. He said the removal of the term ‘Insurance’ reflects stakeholder feedback gathered over several years.

Faleye stated: “In many

cultural settings, the term impeded acceptance of the Employees’ Compensation Scheme.

“The new name also posi- tions the Fund to administer additional contingenciesILO-recognised of social security should Nigeria domesticate those areas in the future.”

Commending the lawmakers, Faleye stressed that the Nigeria Social Security Trust

Fund Bill, 2025, represents a new dawn for workers, employers, and the social protection system in Nigeria.

Faleye explained that in the course of implementing both the NSITF Act and the ECA, the Fund identified several challenges and operational bottlenecks that hindered efficient service delivery.

He noted that the proposed bill adequately addressed

NDDC: Ogbuku to Receive Tinubu’s Award for Excellence in Niger Delta

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, is set to receive President Bola Tinubu’s award of excellence in infrastructure delivery and sustainable regional growth in the Niger Delta region.

A letter signed by the Permanent Secretary (General Services Office) for the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mohammed Danjuma, revealed the award ceremony will hold

at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, would be graced by President Tinubu. Danjuma stated that Og- buku would be honoured at the forthcoming Nigeria Excellence Awards in Public Service (NEAPS) organised by The Best Strategic (TBS) Media in collaboration with the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF).

He stated: “With reference to the letter from the Chairman, Advisory Council of Nigeria Excellence Awards in Public Service, I write to respectfully

inform you that you have been nominated to receive a Distinguished Award for Excellence in Infrastructure Delivery and Sustainable Regional Growth.”

It would recall the president had, on July 12, 2024, during the Niger Delta Stakeholders Summit in Port Harcourt, commended the NDDC Board and Management for working in harmony to fast-track the development of Nigeria’s oil-rich region.

In a statement sent by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director, Corporate Affairs,

EduReach Offers 2-Year Scholarships to Rescued Kebbi, Niger Students

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

An education technology firm, EduReach, has announced a two-year full scholarship for students rescued from recent mass abductions in Kebbi and Niger States, aimed at supporting their recovery from trauma and helping

them return to learning. The organisation said the initiative is designed to as- sist the affected children in managing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and overcoming the disruptions caused by the attacks, which forced the closure of several schools in northern Nigeria.

At a press briefing in Abuja, the Founder of STEMEduReach, Mamu Alhaji Muhammad, said many of the rescued learners continue to struggle with trauma and emotional distress, making educational support and psychosocial care critical to their reintegration.

NDDC, said the recognition highlights Ogbuku’s remarkable contributions to advancing infrastructure development and promoting sustainable growth in the Niger Delta region.

“Significant achievements, including the construction and rehabilitation of roads, bridges, and social amenities, have marked his stewardship at NDDC”, Thompson-Wakama added.

many of the longstanding challenges.

Faleye stated: “ It aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the ILO Social Security (Minimum Standards) Convention, 1952 (No. 102), the Tripartite Consultation Convention, 1976 (No. 144), as well as global best practices.

“Following the enactment of the Pension Reform Act (PRA), 2014, major elements of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund mandate under the NSITF Act, such as the contributory pension, were transferred to the National Pension Commission.

“However, Sections 84(2) and (3) of the PRA 2014 clearly provide that the NSITF shall continue to deliver social security insurance services, excluding pensions, to all eligible Nigerian citizens and legally resident workers, in accordance with the NSITF Act.

“This legal framework led to the enactment of the Employees’ Compensation

Act (ECA), 2010, which vested NSITF with full responsibility for administering the Employees’ Compensation Scheme.”

On the repeal of the NSITF Act 1993 and the ECA 2010, Faleye explained that the co-existence of the two Acts have generated conflicting provisions and operational ambiguities, especially when interfaced with the PRA 2014. He added: “The consolidation of both Acts into a single, coherent statute, the Nigeria Social Security Trust Fund Act is timely, necessary, and commendable.

“This harmonisation eliminates duplication, resolves conflicts, and strengthens the legal framework of the Fund”l.”

Faleye, specifically wel- comed electronic submission of compensation claims to reduce delays and improve efficiency (Section 23(8); inclusion of the informal sector and self-employed persons, ensuring broader social protection coverage (Section 20).

250 persons living with dis- abilities, (PWDs) in Anambra were yesterday handed the sum of N200,000 each, to recapitalize their existing small businesses and strengthen their means of livelihood.

The distribution was made during a ceremony at the Light House, Awka, to mark the launch of the Renewed Hope Initiative, RHI, Economic Empower- ment Programme for PWDs,

in commemoration of the International Day for Persons with Disabilities.

The event is being launched simultaneously across the 36 States of the Federation, the Federal Capi- tal Territory, and the Police Officers’ Wives Association, which will see a total of 9,500 PWDs across Nigeria get a total of N1.9billion.

The states, the FCT, and the POWA will get N50 million each to disburse as Business Recapitalization Grants to 150 PWDs.

Speaking during the event, the Wife of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu who was represented by the wife of the deputy governor of Anambra State, Mrs. Oluchi Ibezim said the programme aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, which seeks to promote inclusive growth and shared prosperity by ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind, especially those whose needs are often overlooked.

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

Akinwale in Abuja

2025 IBPLC Cheers to ModeratIon aCtIvatIon...

L-R: Packaging Process Operator, Nyenke Charles; Energy & Fluid Specialist, Aniekan Edem Asuquo; Safety Facilitator, Alfred Okpanuwo; Clinic Assistant, Peace Edem, and Corporate Affairs Manager, International Breweries Plc (IBPLC) Port Harcourt Brewery, Helen Chimezie during the 2025 IBPLC Cheers to Moderation activation in PortHarcourt, Rivers State...recently

Ogun: Abiodun Presents N1.668trn Appropriation

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, yesterday presented an appropriation bill of N1.669 trillion for 2026, before the State House of Assembly for consideration and approval.

The proposed budget titled “Budget of Sustainable Legacy,” consists of N624.76 billion pro- posed as recurrent expenditure and N1.044 trillion capital expenditure.

The budget proposal was presented during the plenary presided over by the Speaker, Hon. Oludaisi Elemide, and was witnessed by several stakeholders, including traditional rulers.

The expected revenue for the 2026 fiscal year consists of N509.88 billion Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), comprising an estimated sum of N250 billion from the Ogun State Internal Revenue Service (OGIRS) and 259.88 billion from other Ministries, Depart- ments, and Agencies (MDAs).

The Governor disclosed that funding from the Federal Govern- ment (FAAC revenue), including Statutory Allocations, Value Added

Tax, and other shared revenues, was projected at N554.81 billion.

Abiodun said Capital Receipts are estimated at N518.90 billion, comprising internal and external loans as well as grants.

“Our Internally Generated Revenue capacity remains one of the most robust among subnational entities in Nigeria. We will continue to leverage our strategic position as a trade corridor, draw on insights from the rebased GDP, and capitalise on our proximity to Lagos State.

“Our focus is to deepen revenue transparency, expand the tax base, and strengthen fiscal sustainability—without placing additional burdens on residents,” Abiodun said.

Giving the breakdown of the 2026 fiscal expenditure plan, the Governor explained that personnel costs would take N167.92 billion; while consolidated revenue charges were pegged at N65.80 billion, with public debt charges put at N99.98 billion; just as overhead costs were estimated to gulp N291.06 billion, with N1.044 trillion meant to take care of capital projects.

Bill to Assembly

On sectoral allocation breakdown, Abiodun disclosed that education would take N275.40 billion representing 17 percent; while the Health Sector was allocated N210.59 billion amounting to 13 percent; adding that Housing and Community Development would take N166.96 billion being 10 percent, while N40.54 billion was earmarked for Agriculture

and Industry, representing two percent, with infrastructure al- located N526.15 billion, amounting to 32 percent, leaving recreation, culture and religion with N42.24 billion (3%).

Other allocations included Social Protection having N72.82 billion (4%), General Public Service – Executive Organ to take N55.65 billion (3%), General

Public Service – Financial and Fiscal Affairs would also take N52.30 billion (3%); while General Personnel Service to receive N3.86 billion (0.2%).

The Governor explained that the 2026 proposed budget was designed to address existing developmental challenges and implement sustainable solutions across all sectors.

He posited that the expendi- ture plan aligned with the State Development Plan (2018–2030) and the Economic Development Strategy, focusing on fiscal responsibility, human capital development, a competitive business environment, improved transport infrastructure, energy sufficiency and SME-driven industrialisation.

German Bank Indicates Interest in Funding of Carter, 3rd Mainland Bridges

Umahi: Carter bridge badly damaged, needs replacement

emmanuel addeh in Abuja

Deutsche Bank has indicated interest in funding the rehabilita- tion of the Third Mainland Bridge as well as the replacement of the Carter Bridge, both located in Nigeria’s commercial centre, Lagos.

This was disclosed during a meeting with the Minister of

SEC to Unveil USSD Code, ISS Audio in Lagos

In alignment with the Com- mission’s commitment to deepening market accessibility, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is set to unveil two innovative prod- ucts: a USSD Service and ISA Audio, designed to democratise information dissemination and enhance investor engagement.

According to the Commission, the unveiling would take place at the forthcoming Capital Market Committee Meeting scheduled Lagos this month.

SEC disclosed that the

forthcoming CMC would interrogate critical themes germane to the sustainable development of Nigeria’s capital market.

Central to these deliberations include discussion on global macroeconomic dynamics and their transmission effects on domestic financial markets, as well as the importance of cross-border financial integra- tion within the African context.

“Equally salient are discourses on unlocking pension fund investments, enhancing market liquidity, and stimulating innovation through targeted regulatory reforms.

“A significant component of

the programme will be devoted to evaluating the trajectory of the Capital Market Master Plan (CMMP).

“This will encompass a comprehensive review of key achievements and the formal sunset of the 2025 CMMP, alongside the articulation of a strategic framework for the 2030 CMMP Plan,” the Commission stated.

Furthermore, the agenda incorporates an analytical session on Nigeria’s recent tax reform legislation and its implications for capital market efficiency and investor confidence.

Works, Senator David Umahi, in Abuja, a statement by the Special Adviser (Media) to the minister, Uchenna Orji, said yesterday.According to the statement, the meeting was part of the ef- forts by the federal government towards building partnerships to finance and expedite large-scale road infrastructure development across the Speakingcountry. on its mission, the team from Deutsche Bank made up of the Managing Director, Global Co-Head of

Structured Trade and Export Finance, Moritz Dornemann and the bank’s Chief Country Representative Nigeria, Andreas Voss, said they came to indicate interest in the funding of the replacement of Carter Bridge, Lagos and the rehabilitation of 3rd Mainland Bridge,Lagos.

The statement quoted them as commending President Bola Tinubu, for his ‘commitment’ to the development of large scale and quality road infrastructure across the nation, which they noted was critical in achieving

sustainable economic growth and national prosperity.

Besides, Orji stated that the team lauded Hitech Construction Nig Ltd for the quality of work on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project. The officials assured that with the success recorded on the project, the Deutsche Bank was confident in the prospects of the Renewed Hope Agenda on the road network development and would be interested in further funding of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project.

UNIOSUN Set to Hold 19th Matriculation Ceremony Across All Campuses Thursday

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

The management of Osun State University, under the leadership of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Odunayo Clement Adebooye, will today officially matriculate its newly admitted students for the 2025/2026 academic session.

The ceremony which is scheduled to begin at 11:00

a.m. will be held simultaneously across all colleges of the university.

A statement signed by the University’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Ademola Adesoji, explained that each College will host its matriculating students at designated venues as follows: College of Law, Ifetedo Campus: College Auditorium,

Ifetedo College of Humanities and Culture, Ikire Campus: College Hall, Ikire College of Education, Ipetu-Ijesa Campus: College Hall, Ipetu-Ijesa College of Agriculture, Ejigbo Campus: College Hall, Ejigbo College of Management and Social Sciences, Okuku Campus: College Hall, Okuku

James sowole in Abeokuta

Kayode tokede

LAUNCH OF PROVIDUS VERVE TRAVEL CARD...

L–R: Divisional Head, Product Management and Solution Delivery, Verve International, Ademola Adeniran; Divisional Head, e-Business and Digital Banking, Providus Bank, Elliott Sangoleye; Vice President, Issuing and Acquiring Management (Africa), Verve International, Paul Ohakim; and Group Head, e-Business and Digital Banking, Providus Bank, Lanre Ogundare, at the launch of the Providus Verve Travel Card held in Lagos, yesterday

US Set to Impose Visa Ban on Perpetrators of Religious Persecution in Nigeria

EU raises alarm over foreign information manipulation

Emmanuel Addeh and Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The United States yesterday an- nounced its intention to impose visa restrictions on individuals involved in religious persecution in Nigeria and other countries across the world.

US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, in a post on X, formerly Twitter, stated that the new policy is being introduced as

describe their captors as people who are not human.”

Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, also aligned with the majority, calling the amendment a necessary consensus to restore internal security.

“We can no longer allow the country to be terrorised. Kidnappers must face capital punishment,” he said.

Bamidele explained that the amendment would give security agencies stronger authority to trace and confiscate assets linked to kidnapping, cut off ransom-funding channels, strengthen inter-agency coordination, and ensure speedier pre-trial processes.

“This is a war on the Nigerian people. Our response must be firm, decisive and unambiguous,” he said.

Senate Begins Probe of Safe School Programme, Resolves to Track Money Spent

Senate launched an investigation into the Safe School Initiative (SSI), opening what lawmakers describe as a longoverdue probe into the billions of naira and millions of dollars

Washington responds to rising concerns over alleged violence and attacks against Christian communities and other religious groups globally.

He stated: “The United States is taking decisive action in response to the atrocities and violence against Christians in Nigeria and around the world. The State Department will restrict U.S. visas for those who knowingly direct, authorise, fund, support,

committed to securing schools over the past decades.

The upper chamber said the inquiry had become necessary following persistent attacks, mass abductions, and the alarming failure of the initiative to fulfil its core mandate of protecting Nigerian schoolchildren.

Presiding the inaugural sitting of the 18-member ad hoc committee, its chairman and former Abia State governor, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, vowed that the National Assembly would leave no detail unexamined.

Kalu said the investigation would expose gaps in funding, implementation, security deployment, and inter-agency coordination that had left schools vulnerable, despite hugeKalu,investments. who described the growing assault on educational institutions as “unacceptable for a nation committed to educational development and child safety,”, cited disturbing statistics.

He said more than 1,680 schoolchildren had been

or carry out violations of religious freedom.

“This visa policy applies to Nigeria and other governments or individuals that persecute people for their religious beliefs.”

It reflected Washington’s expanding use of visa sanctions as a diplomatic tool, particularly in issues involving human rights and security. It also signalled growing international attention on the religious violence affecting

kidnapped and 180 schools attacked since 2014.

IGP Egbetokun: We Are Building Police Force That is Disciplined, Focused Inspector General of Police (GDP), Kayode Egbetokun, yesterday, reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the Nigeria Police.

Egbetokun statied that the police under his leadership was steadily evolving into a disciplined, fit, focused, and community-centred organisation.

Speaking in Abuja at the official unveiling of the mascot logo for the 15th Nigeria Police Games in Asaba, the IGP described sports as one of the most powerful tools for shaping the police force in HeNigeria. said the Games had become a lasting symbol of unity and excellence, consistently highlighting the finest qualities of the force’s personnel. He further stressed that while preserving the force’s sporting legacy was essential, his administration was equally

several Nigerian states.

On November 1, 2025, President Trump formally designated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over what he described as widespread kill- ings of Christians and alleged systematic religious-based violence.

The new designation reversed an earlier decision in November 2021 by the United States Depart- ment of State, which removed

In F orm

TS determined to elevating it.

Egbetokun said raising standards remained a central priority. He expressed appreciation to the governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, for the state’s readiness to host the 2026 Games.

He said Delta had earned a reputation for sporting excel- lence, and voiced confidence that Asaba would deliver an event befitting the institution.

multidimensional poverty challenges.

Bagudu said, “Mr. President has challenged us to translate these reforms into measurable improvements in people’s lives. Our goal is to lift millions out of poverty by 2030 through coordinated programmes, strengthened efficiency, and expanded financing.”

The minister highlighted the ministry’s central role in coordinating national development efforts, fostering collaboration across all tiers of government and international partners.

Nigeria from its list of religious freedom violators because the conditions had improved at the time.

Trump emphasised that the killings, reported to account for 3,100 of the 4,476 Christian deaths recorded worldwide, required an immediate U.S. response. He said that beyond declarations, the U.S. government must take tangible steps to prevent further attacks and support persecuted religiousAlthoughgroups the Nigerian govern- ment vehemently refuted the imputation that there is religious genocide in the country, it has since declared a nationwide security emergency to address the escalating violence, abductions, banditry and insurgency across multiple regions in West Africa’s most populous country.

Besides, it has authorised a major expansion of security personnel, including in the Ni- geria Police Force, to bring in an additional 20,000 officers. In

He commended the World Bank delegation for its continued commitment to Nigeria’s development and expressed confidence that the renewed engagement will unlock greater opportunities for inclusive growth across Nigeria.

Welcoming the delega- tion, Odoh described World Bank as a longstanding and dependable partner in Nigeria’s development journey, stating the transformative impact of its technical and financial support across the country’s social

the same vein, the Bola Tinubu administration ordered the deployment of other security agencies, including trained forest guards to flush out terrorists and criminals operating in forests and remote hideouts.

Aligning with Secretary Rubio, the United States’ Department of State in a statement titled: “Combating Egregious Anti- Christian Violence in Nigeria and Globally,” announced it was taking decisive action in response to the ‘mass killings’ and violence against Christians by radical Islamic terrorists, Fulani ethnic militias, and other violent actors in Nigeria and beyond.

“A new policy under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act will allow the State Department to restrict visa issuance to individuals who have directed, authorised, significantly supported, participated in, or carried out violations of religious freedom and, where appropriate, their immediate family members.

protection and macroeconomic reforms.

She said, “We are proud of the progress achieved so far and optimistic about the future. We especially welcome the new Regional Manager for Social Protection, and we trust that he will find Nigeria both enriching and welcoming.”

Odoh assured Chase of the federal government’s unwavering commitment to deploying available resources towards realising Tinubu’s vision for a more inclusive and resilient nation.

Sen

EXCELLENCE/AWARDS CEREMONY OF UNIVERSITY OF IBADAN ALUMNI ASSOCIATION...

R–L: Mr. Tunji Bello, EVC/CEO of FCCPC, with fellow awardees, Professor (Mrs.) Yemi Olatunji-Bello (Vice Chancellor, Lagos State University); Professor Ishaq

(Registrar, JAMB); and Mr. Louis Odion, Executive Commissioner (Operations) of FCCPC, at the 2025 Excellence/Awards Ceremony of the University of Ibadan

Association (UIAA) Worldwide at the Armed Forces Officers’ Mess and Suites, Abuja… recently

Rowdy Session as Senate Confirms Musa New Defence Minister, Tasks Him on Issues

New minister pledges to remove soldiers from checkpoints Akpabio: Donald Trump on our neck Ndume seeks first line charge for military

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja Senate, yesterday, confirmed the appointment of former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, as the new Minister of Defence after a rigorous screening session that lasted about three hours.

Lawmakers, during the screen- ing session, demanded clear assurances that he could halt the country’s worsening insecurity, rescue abducted schoolchildren, and address critical failings within the military hierarchy.

Chairing the Committee of the Whole, Senate President

Godswill Akpabio described Musa’s nomination as “the most widely accepted ministerial appointment in recent times”.

Akpabio cited Musa’s op- erational record, humility, and responsiveness as CDS, even as senators insisted that the grav- ity of Nigeria’s security crisis required robust interrogation.

The lawmakers rejected a motion by Senator Sani Musa of Niger East to allow Musa to take a bow and go since he had earlier been screened in the past as CDS and most questions might make him reveal operational strategies.

In S ecur ITY: nec Approve S n 100 B

to close remaining immunity gaps before year-end.”

NEC thereafter resolved that deputy governors across the implementing states were encouraged to convene State Taskforce Meetings ahead of theItcampaign. said, “State governments are urged to work closely with security agencies to support safe access for vaccination teams, par- ticularly in settlements affected by insecurity or hard-to-reach terrain.

“LGA chairmen should be fully involved in campaign oversight by chairing the Evening Review Meetings (ERMS), where daily performance is assessed, bottlenecks identified, and corrective measures taken in real time.”

Giving an update on the stakeholders’ meeting on the cost and availability of domestic gas, Minister of Petroleum (Gas), Mr Ekperikpe Ekpo, made a presentation on the cost and availability of domestic gas, particularly the payment of

outstanding obligations to gas producers to encourage increased production and supply for domestic consumption.

Gas producers have a cumulative debt claim of $1 billion for gas supplied to the power sector as far back as 2011, and N185 billion (78 per cent) of the total naira-denominated debt claims has been validated by submissions made by NNPC Gas Marketing Ltd (NGML) and Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC); the variance is largely driven by NEPL’s claims against its GenCo custom- ers and unreported claims against NGML by Shell, Seplat Energy and NUIMS.

The Tinubu government had on April 4 granted approval to urgently settle the N185 billion naira validated debt owed to gas producers through future oil and gas royalty deductions.

Following the transmission of the presidential approval to the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NU- PRC), NUPRC engaged with the

The reactions from senators to the suggestion led to a rowdy session, which forced the senate president to rule him out of order.

The lawmakers rejected the routine “bow-and-go”, citing the case of over 200 schoolchildren still held captive and a senior military officer, Brigadier-General Uba, who was missing after being abducted by terrorists.

Musa warned that the threats confronting the country were from “evil, coordinated forces” that could only be defeated through unity, collaboration, and a whole-of-society approach.

He emphasised that Nigeria’s

six gas producers and agreed on a royalty deduction schedule.

FEC commended the initiative and efforts of the committee, given Nigeria’s status as a largely gas nation.

It thereafter approved the com- mittee’s prayers to, among other things, concur with Tinubu’s approval for the payment of outstanding obligations to the tune of N185 billion to gas producers to ensure improved supply of gas for domestic production.

Bandits

Issue One Week Ultimatum to Kwara Community to Pay N300m on 10 Abducted Residents

Bandits that kidnapped 10 residents of Isapa town in Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State issued a one-week ultimatum to the community to pay a ransom of N300 million for the abductees or have them killed.

The victims were abducted last week Sunday in Isapa town. The bandits had initially demanded

security challenges were no longer purely military in nature, but demanded equal commitment from state governments, security agencies, and citizens.

He assured Nigerians that more military personnel would be drafted to areas currently being terrorised by bandits by ensuring the removal of soldiers fromMusacheckpoints. stated, “It is the role of the police to man checkpoints. We would draft soldiers to areas under the siege of terrorists. The enemies we are dealing with are evil forces who do not mean this country well.

N500 million ransom but later reduced it to N300 million.

Reports from the community last night said the criminals warned that failure to comply within the deadline would lead to another violent invasion aimed at killing many more residents.

The development caused intense tension in the community.

Chief Hunter of Isapa, Mr. A. Adeyeye, who spoke with journalists on the development, explained that the kidnappers initially demanded N500 mil- lion, but reduced the amount to N300 million after further communication.

Adeyeye said, “Despite pleas from the community offering N5 million, the armed group rejected the offer, describing it as unacceptable and far below theirAdeyeyeexpectations.” said the kidnappers threatened to unleash more terror on the town if their demands were not met.

According to him, the group also boasted that they were responsible for the recent attack

“If we do not work together, we will continue giving them the space to perpetrate their acts.

Nigeria can win this war, but we must be deliberate, united, and determined.”

He cautioned that instability across the Sahel, particularly Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, posed direct risks to Nigeria if its borders were not secured and if regional coordination failed.

“Whatever happens in the Sahel eventually finds its way to Nigeria, because terrorists believe this country is the ultimate prize,” he warned.

Senators demanded immediate

on a C&S Church in Ejiba, Kogi State, where a pastor, his wife, and other worshippers were kidnapped.

Commander Orders Troops to Stamp Out Bandits in Sokoto

Theatre Commander of the Joint Task Force (North West) Operation Fasan Yamma (OPFY), Major-General W. B. Idris, ordered troops of the 8 Division and Sector 2 OPFY to intensify their operations and ensure that armed bandits were completely stamped out from the North-west region.

The directive was contained in a statement released by Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nige- rian Army, Lieutenant-Colonel Olaniyi Osoba.

The statement said the Theatre Commander issued the order during his maiden operational assessment visit to 8 Division and Sector 2 at Giginya Barracks, Sokoto.

During his address, Idris explained that the purpose of

answers on recent operational breaches, including the attack on a Borno school, where soldiers reportedly withdrew shortly before kidnappers stormed the premises, as well as the abduction of Brigadier-General Uba, whom terrorists filmed in captivity. Akpabio, who insisted that Nigerians deserved explanations from the ministerial nominee, said, “The man standing in front of us could be regarded as the current solution to the security in the country and we’re not here on our own.

his visit was not only to evaluate operational performance but also to review ongoing training efforts and assess the welfare of soldiers wounded in action.

He urged the troops to prepare for a more intense and demanding phase of operations, stressing that psychological readiness would be essential as the campaign escalated. He emphasised that the push to completely eradicate banditry was entering a decisive stage, one that would rely heavily on the courage, discipline, dedication, and sacrifice of the troops.

The Theatre Commander further assured them that enhanced combat resources and improved logistical support would be provided to strengthen their operational capabilities. Idris also commended the General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander Sector 2 OPFY, Major-General Ibikunle Ajose, for his proactive leadership in countering security threats within the sector’s area of responsibility.

Oloyede

Alumni

NPC SWEARING-IN CEREMONY...

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (right), congratulating the newly appointed Chairman, National

at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday

Edun Seeks High Institutional Performance by State-owned Companies

Despite past failures, Takang insists govt still pivotal to success of public enterprises Urges strong governance structures to guarantee successful outcomes

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun has again called for high institutional performance by State-Owned Enterprises (SOES), saying the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) has the mandate to guarantee this.

Edun, who spoke in Abuja, yesterday while inaugurating the 2026 MOFI Excellecnce Awards panel, noted that despite the challenges, government revenues surpassed the previous year’s, with economic growth at about 4 per Thecent.minister noted that while the President Bola Tinubu administration continues to build a reslient economy, his 7 per cent growth target was being pursued vigorously. He explained that a cardinal

pillar of the Renewed Hope Agenda was to transform the economy and deliver prosperity for Nigerians.

“A central pillar of this vision is improving how our state-owned enterprises function to meet global standards of transparency, ethics, and performance to achieve that goal.

“These awards directly advance those principles by elevating transparency and accountability as virtues worth celebrating,” he said, urging the awards panelists chaired by Bashirun J.K. Rundle to embrace the highest form of transparency in selecting the awardees.

In his address, the MOFI Managing Director, Dr. Armstrong Takang made a strong case for the continued involvement of government in businesses because of its reach and unmatched resources.

Takang, dismissed as fallacious, claims that government has no business in business.

Citing China as an example of a country with an alternative brand of capitalism where government-owned enterprises have thrived, the MOFI chief executive

also referenced countries in Asia with successful publicly-managed business.

He listed Qatar with a well-run airline; United Arab Emirates with Emirates airline and Singapore with a successful airline, among others.

He argued that the fact that some state- owned enterprises (SOEs) such as the defunct Nigeria Airways Limited, Nigerian National Shiiping Line, and NITEL, among others, failed ditd not mean the government cannot play a pivotal role in business. According to him, the government has a pivotal role to play in creating and sustaining successful public enterprises not only because of the scale but because it has access to resources that the orivate sector does not.

Next Census Will be Tech-Driven, Says NPC Chairman

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The new chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), Dr. Aminu Yusuf, has said his key priority will be to transform the operation of the Commission so that it can effectively deliver on its mandate.

Speaking on assumption of office on Wednesday, Yusuf listed seven areas of focus to include; engagement with

JV Celebrates 30 Years of Technical Training Excellence

Okon Bassey in Uyo

The NNPC/Seplat Joint Venture has celebrated 30 years of the Technical Training Centre (TTC), the graduation of Apprentice Group 13, and a two mil- lion man-hours without a single recordable incident in its offshore operations.

The celebration of the achievements held in Eket local government area of Akwa Ibom state had as its themed, “From Roots to Results – Three Decades of

Growth.”

The event brought together industry leaders, community partners, government rep- resentatives, and families of the graduating apprentices.

Speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of Seplat Energy Plc, Roger Brown, described the ceremony as “a celebration of a journey that began thirty years ago and has evolved into something exceptional,” Brown represented by the Chief Operations Officer, Seplat Energy Plc,

Samson Ezugworie, explained that the theme of the event, perfectly reflects the transformational path that the TTC has traveled since its establishment. He said, founded three decades ago, the Technical Training Centre (TTC) was created with a visionary purpose: to build a worldclass pipeline of indigenous technicians equipped to compete globally and to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s industrial and energy development.

key stakeholders, infrastructure, delivering innovative and technology-driven census and digitalization of civil registration and vital statistics,

He also said the team at NPC will ensure data quality, research and national survey as well as capacity development and strengthening of the commission.

His words: “My priority is to strengthen the very foundations of this Commission. Every department, state office and unit must operate with renewed synergy and a shared vision. Our structure must be strong, our processes

transparent and our output reliable.

“We must build an institution where innovation, professionalism and efficiency are not aspirations, but defining characteristics.”

On census delivery, the NPC said one of the key pillars of his agenda is the delivery of a modern, technology-driven population and housing census.

According to him, “Conducting a national census is one of the most complex operations a country can undertake.

“It demands meticulous preparation, disciplined ex-

ecution and uncompromising accuracy.We are committed to delivering a census Nigerians can trust and use”. He added that, “every stage from the Enumeration Area Demarcation (EAD) updating, logistics deployment, field operations, implementing quality assurance measures, to performing Post-Enumeration Surveys (PES) will be executed with diligence and professionalism.

“Our ultimate goal is to conduct a census that is digital, biometrically verified and whose outcome will be credible and reliable.

INEC: First Quarter of Nationwide CVR Closes Dec.10, 9.9m Registered Online

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC),has announced that the first quarter of nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise would formally close on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.

The Director of Voter Education and Publicity, Mrs. Victoria Eta-Messi,

in a statement, recalled that the ongoing nationwide CVR exercise commenced with online pre-registration on 18th August 2025.

This, she explained, was followed by in-person registration on 25th August 2025 across the 774 Local Government Areas, all State Offices, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

“The Commission wishes to inform the public that the first quarter of this exercise will formally close on Wednesday, 10th December 2025.

“In line with Section 19 of the Electoral Act 2022, the Commission will commence the Display of the Register of Voters for Claims and Objections from 15th to 21st December 2025.

Population Commission, Dr. Aminu Yusuf, after his swearing-in ceremony,

PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI

FOR iMPROVEd TRaNsaCTiONs sETTLEMENT…

L– : Head, Operations & IT, NASD Plc, Chinwendu Ekeh; Director of Registration, Exchanges and Market Infrastructure Department (REMI), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Hafsat Rufai; Chairman, Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) Plc and GMD/CEO, Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group), Temi Popoola; Executive Commissioner, Operations, SEC, Bola Ajomale; MD/CEO, CSCS Plc, Haruna Jalo-Waziri; Onome Komolafe, Divisional Head, Business Services & Client Experience, CSCS Plc, and Head, Trading and Products, Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) Abimbola Babalola, during the press conference T+2 Settlement Cycle in Lagos...recently

Insecurity: Govt Orders Evacuation of Illegal Occupants of Farmland in Ekiti Communities

Gbenga sodeindeinado Ekitiand yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

To ward off infiltration that could compromise the security of lives, the Ekiti State Government, has issued

Security agencies Intervene in Ejigbo land communal crisis in Osun Kwara Varsity closes Ilesha-Baruba campus

a seven-day ultimatum for the evacuation of some non-natives illegally occupying a farmland and border post between Isan Ekiti and Eda Oniyo, in Ilejemeje Local Government Area.

Meanwhile, multiple security

Former Eti-Osa Chairmanship Candidate, Adio, Eyes ADC

ayodeji ake

The immediate past chairmanship candidate of the Youth Party (YP) in EtiOsa Local Government in Lagos State, Ayodele Adio, has hinted at a potential move to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), signaling what could become a significant shift in the local political landscape.

In a statement, Adio noted that ongoing consultations with community leaders, political stakeholders, and party members have intensified in recent weeks. While he stopped short of

declaring a formal defection, he acknowledged that “a new political vehicle may be necessary to advance the aspirations of the people of Eti-Osa.”

Adio, who ran on a reform-driven agenda in the last local government elections, reiterated his commitment to improving environmental and housing conditions in Eti-Osa. He stressed that the constituency still grapples with issues ranging from flooding and waste management to poorly regulated urban development.

CBA Foundation Raises Awareness on Plight of Vulnerable Widows

The Chinwe Bode-Akinwande (CBA) Foundation, a leading non-governmental organisation and advocate for vulnerable groups, successfully held the Walk4Hope2025 aimed at creating awareness about the challenges faced by underprivileged widows and their children in Nigeria.

The symbolic five-kilometre walk, which took off at Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, brought together individuals, organisations, and business leaders united in solidarity and compassion to collectively create awareness around the challenges that widows face and the essential support they require from the

community.

Speaking on the importance of the initiative, the Founder of CBA Foundation, Mrs. Chinwe Bode-Akinwande, said, “Walk4Hope is a call to society to recognise and respond to the struggles of the less privileged in our society, particularly widows and their children.

For a decade now, our foundation has been on this journey to give widows the support they need to raise their children in spite of the many cultural and society challenges. Today, we walked not just for awareness, but to give widows the chance to dream again.”

agents were mobilised to prevent a communal crisis over the historic 85-acre church property in Ejigbo Baptist Mission in Osun State.

THISDAY reliably gathered

that security agencies, including the Nigerian Police Force, have stepped in to prevent a potential communal crisis in Ejigbo following an escalating land dispute involving the

Ejigbo Baptist Mission and the Lawal Obelawo family within the community.

The Ekiti State Government described the immediate evacuation as apt and apposite,

to avert any action that could threaten the security of the people and their wellbeing at this period when cases of kidnapping and banditry are escalating across the country.

38 Freed Kwara Community Worshippers Rejoin Families

Hammed shittu in Ilorin

The 38 freed worshippers of Christ Apostolic Church(CAC), Eruku Town in Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State have finally rejoined their families.

However, the

ahmad sorondinki in Kano

The Northern Youth Assembly (NYA) has dismissed a report labeling Kano as the “new bandits’ frontier” as baseless and misleading.

The group in a statement

management of Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete, in Moro Local Government Area of the state, yesterday announced a temporary closure of the Ilesha-Baruba campus of the institution with immediate effect.

The management, therefore, ordered the students and staff to move to the main campus of the university located at Malete.

yesterday described the report as a deliberate attempt to smear the image of the state, which has historically shown resilience against insecurity.

The President and Secretary General of the NYA, Dr. Aliyu

The affected worshippers, according to THISDAY checks, arrived Eruku town on Tuesday night amidst cheering from family,

Mohammed and, Dr. Hafiz Garba, who signed the statement explained that Kano has consistently demonstrated its ability to tackle security challenges, and the recent surge in banditry does not define the state’s overall security situation.

community members and well-wishers that trouped out to receive them.

The affected worshippers were abducted while 3 were killed on November 18 by suspected bandits during a special thanksgiving prayers at the CAC at Eruku.

The statement noted that while public discourse on security is welcome, the article in question departs from facts, distorts historical context, and unarguably seeks to create panic rather than educate or enlighten the public.

Moniepoint MFB Unveils Book-keeping Solution for SMEs

Nume Ekeghe

Moniepoint Microfinance Bank has introduced Moniebook, an all-in-one Point-of-Sale (POS) solution designed to revolutionsie how businesses in retail, hospitality, health, and other sectors manage daily operations. As the first solution in Nigeria to seamlessly unify payments and bookkeeping in one tool, Moniebook is tailored for small to medium-sized businesses as well as multilocation enterprises. By combining robust software

with reliable hardware, it helps business owners streamline operations, boost efficiency, and gain data-driven insights for growth.

The platform offers a powerful suite of tools to manage inventory, track sales, process payments, foster customer relationships, and generate detailed reports all from a single system. From supermarkets and restaurants to pharmacies and boutiques, Moniebook simplifies complex operations, reduces inefficiencies, and increases profitability.

SUNU Assurances Clinches Top Honours at PEARL Awards

SUNU Assurances Nigeria Plc has emerged as a top winner at the 2025 PEARL Awards, proudly receiving the Highest Share Price Appreciation Award under the Market Excellence Category.

The prestigious award was presented at the

recently concluded PEARL Awards Night in Lagos.

The PEARL Awards, widely recognised as Nigeria’s most credible platform for honouring outstanding companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange employ a rigorous, data-driven

approach in evaluating listed firms.

The Market Excellence Award, which SUNU Assurances secured, is based on clearly measurable parameters, including share price performance, financial growth, corporate governance, and value

creation for shareholders. Speaking after receiving the award, Managing Director/CEO of SUNU Assurances Nigeria Plc, Dr. Samuel Ogbodu, expressed gratitude to the organisers and reaffirmed the company’s vision.

Northern Youth Assembly: Kano Not Bandits’ New

Alex Iwobi Eulogises Chukwu-Magic in Fulham’s Nine-Goal Thriller Against City

Duro Ikhazuagbe with agency report

Following his superlative perfor- mance against Manchester City at Craven Cottage on Tuesday night, Nigerian international, Samuel Chukwueze, has earned a new nickname at Fulham.

The AC Milan player on loan at the English Premier League club side scored a brace as Fulham battled back from 5-1 to finish the game a decent 5-4 scoreline.

Chukwueze who has two goals and three assists to his credit from seven appearances for Fulham was reported by his fellow Nigerian international, Alex Iwobi, to have been nicknamed Chukwu-Magicin the

club’s dressing room.

Speaking to Fulham FC Televi- sion (FFC TV) after the clash with Pep Guardiola’s men in London, Iwobi who also scored in the nine-goal thriller revealed: “His nickname in the training ground is Chukwu-magic. When he’s in training he’s pulling off some crazy stuff, and most importantly he’s doing it on the“Nowpitch.he’s getting that end product — scoring goals and also creating chances,” began the Super Eagles midfielder.

The former Arsenal player stressed that while Fulham rely on contributions from every member of the squad, Chukwueze’s creativity makes him a special asset.

“Of course, we need everyone, but he’s one player that we should look out for. I like to feed him with the ball because I know he’s always going to create something, and the fans will take to him.

“As long as he keeps his head down and remains consistent, we’re always going to back him.”

In that Tuesday evening fixture against Manchester City, Fulham could easily have felt the game was lost after falling 3–0, and later 5–1 behind.

Iwobi however revealed that manager Marco Silva played a crucial role in keeping spirits high during a difficult first half.

He continued: “The manager said at half-time we cannot let our heads drop no matter what

the score is, we have to keep on fighting. To be fair to the fans, they were with us until the last minute of the game.

“We put on a show for the people watching, but unfortu- nately, like I said it wasn’t the result we wanted.

“It was almost like the 12th member on the pitch so they were giving us that energy and it was fueling us to go forward and attack.

“Credit to them, but also credit to us and the staff and everyone that were involved. We were able to keep pushing to the last minute of the game.”

With Fulham trailing by four goals, Iwobi pulled one back in the 57th minute when his stunning curler beat goalkeeper

NIGER DELTA GAMES 2026 TOUR...

R-L: Niger Delta Games officials, Edi Lawani and Sir Itiako Ikpokpo and Edo Sports Commission Chairman, Desmond Amadin Enabulele with NDG official, Fred Edoreh during the facility tour of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City...yesterday

Ikpokpo Impressed with Edo Facilities for 2nd Niger Delta Games

Consistent with its project execution routine, Dunamis-Icon Limited, Project Consultants of the Niger Delta Games, has concluded the first phase of physical inspection and evalu- ation of facilities for the event, 24 hours after the presentation of the hosting right to Edo State wasTheperformed. project management team was guided round selected facilty locations in Benin City by Desmond Amadin Enabulele, Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, and the team leader, Sir Itiako Ikpokpo expressed satisfaction with the sports infrastructure assets of the host.

“Edo is a ready-made choice based on all the factors that are necessary to host this kind of big event. We are expecting over 3000 athletes, coaches, alongside journalists and technical officials,

with an approximate number of people outside spectators in the range of 5000. So, we need facilities that work for the games itself,” Ikpokpo explained.

He commended the Edo State Government for the good state of facilities at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, and promised that the state will be assisted with the renovation of some of the facilities as may be necessary to ensure good competition experience for the athletes.

“I have been to the iconic Ogbe Stadium and must com- mend the Edo State Government for maintaining the facilities there. We are also considering taking some events to the University of Benin, so that people in that part of the city can also feel and enjoy the fun. Where need be, we will also see how to assist the state and

the University of Benin to add value to some of the sporting facilities”.

Dunamis Icon Limited is the franchise rights owner to the games conceived and designed to provide a platform for unity and integration, and identifying and grooming talented youths from the region into national and international stars.

The NDDC as the flagship interventionist agency for the nine states that make up the re- gion, is the prime sponsor of the games as part of their strategic focus on youth engagement and human capital development.

The inspection tour began at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, after a brief meeting with Enabulele and the Sports Commission team at his office.

Areas inspected include the stadium’s main bowl, the tartan track, the state box, the VIP

lounges and other key areas like the ceremonial room, the media studio and other indoor facilities.

Other facility locations as- sessed include the Wire Road Sports Centre being listed to host basketball and volleyball games, the University of Benin Sports Complex, and the Etete Sports Centre.

In the entourage of Dunamis- Icon were the Project Director, Mr Fred Edoreh; Director of Facilities and Equipment, Dr Emmanuel Ochuko Igbigbisie; the Head of Communications, Harry Iwuala; Head of Transport and Logistics, Israel Umueri Afoke. Others include: Theresa Ineke, Head of Secretariat; Godwin Enakhena, the Head of Scouting; Mr. Edi Lawani, the Head of Culture Affairs and Entertainment; and Elder Siegha Porbeni of the Technical Department.

GianluigiSubstituteDonnarumma.

Chukwueze then began giving the home side the dream of an incredible comeback.

First, he drove in from a cross, before placing a neat finish into the back of the net six minutes later for scores at 5-4.

Momentum was with Fulham as home fans roared them on and City’s followers watched on nervously in the away end,

and Josh King had a shot cleared off the line in the final seconds. But City held on to secure a win that means they were just two points behind leaders Arsenal, albeit having played a game more, with the Gunners hosting Brentford last night Fulham will next host Christian Uche’s Crystal Palace in a London derby at Craven Cottage.

NPFL: Shooting Stars Dim Remo Stars in S’West Derby

Rivers Utd narrow gap at the summitto one point

Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions, Remo Stars, suffered another 1-0 defeat in a South West Derby against Shooting Stars at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasinga, Ibadan in a midweek clash.

Ismail Ayodele scored the loan goal winner for the Oluyole Warriors in the keenly contested midweek clash.

The win moves Shooting Stars to fifth position on the log with 23 points from 15 matches. They are now unbeaten in their last

two league Elsewheregames. at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt, Rivers United closed the gap on leaders Ikorodu City and Nasarawa jointly on 27 points to one point courtesy of a 1-0 win over Kano Pillars. Boluwaji Shomade netted the decisive goal for the Pride of Rivers People on the dot of 90 minutes.

Kano Pillars remain stuck to the bottom of the table on nine points from 15 games.

Holders Fosla, Generation Next, Two Others Reach 2025 HerGame Girls S’finals

Four teams - Generation Next, Fosla Academy, Horvel Angels and SIK Paragon have booked their places in the semi-finals of the 2025 HerGame Girls Football Championship fol- lowing a decisive round of knockout fixtures on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 in Abuja.

Generation Next extended their impressive run with a disciplined 1–0 win over Jeremiah Angels, maintaining the attacking sharpness and defensive organisation that has defined their tournament form.

Defending champions Fosla Academy kept their title defence alive after edging BIA Angels 1–0 in a tense encounter settled by a moment of brilliance, reinforcing their status as favourites.

Horvel Angels delivered one of the standout performances of the day, defeating Nazareth Queens 1–0 to secure their firstever semi-final appearance and cap a landmark outing for the fast-rising side.

SIK Paragon of Jos completed the semi-final lineup with a com- manding 2–0 victory over Talent Developer, displaying superior physicality and clinical finishing to advance.

With the championship enter- ing its crucial final phase, two high-stakes fixtures are now set with Generation Next to face an in-form Horvel Angels, while reigning champions Fosla Acad- emy clash with SIK Paragon in what promises to be a fiercely contested showdown between two well-organised sides.

Samuel Chukwueze...gets new nickname in Fulham’s dressing room

T H e D A nger of ‘Ceremon IA l’ Cou PS

Brigadier-General who presided over a country globally renowned as Africa’s narco-state to rig the process due to his unpopularity with the people. So, it was convenient for his military stooges to use the drug challenge as an excuse for the coup despite reports that many of their officers are also neck deep in the illicit trade that has turned Guinea-Bissau into one of the most notorious cocaine transport hubs in the world.

Stripped of all pretensions, Embalo’s motive was clear: provisional election results were scheduled for announcement the very next day, and most reports indicated that the opposition candidate, Fernando Dias, had won. Rather than face the electoral verdict of his people, Embalo chose to set fire to the constitutional order itself. This is not leadership. It is the desperate flailing of a man who would rather destroy his country’s democratic institutions than accept electoral defeat.

The fast-shrinking Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU) have rightly suspended Guinea-Bissau and condemned this charade. But condemnation is not enough. These regional bodies must now demonstrate that they are not the ‘toothless bulldogs’ they are often derided as being. And that they will not tolerate such a transparent manipulation of democratic processes by insisting on the immediate release of the authentic election results. Opposition leaders and election officials who have been arbitrarily detained must be freed immediately. Nigeria must also do everything to ensure the safety of Dias whom

we have officially granted asylum and now resident in our embassy in Bissau. And Embalo, who has now fled to Congo after briefly hiding in Senegal, must be held accountable for this assault on democracy.

The people of Guinea-Bissau deserve better

than this cynical mockery of their sovereignty. They went to the polls in good faith. Their votes must be counted. And their will must prevail. Anything less would set a catastrophic precedent for the region and signal to every failing autocrat that they too can manufacture an electoral fiasco

D I g ITA l Pre DAT or S A n D A SSA ulT on Women

We must understand that the harm caused by such behaviour extends far beyond the immediate targets. Every woman or girl who witnesses this pattern of harassment receives a clear message about the risks of online participation. Every young person who sees such conduct go unchallenged learns that this is acceptable behaviour, that women’s dignity is negotiable and that reputation destruction is just another form of online entertainment. This is dangerous. The wounds from such reckless posts may be less visible, but they are no less real. The scars may be digital, but they mark lives and limit possibilities just as surely as physical assault.

What makes this behaviour particularly insidi- ous is how it weaponizes the very architecture of social media platforms. Each claim becomes permanently searchable and shareable. The comments live on in digital perpetuity, creating a form of reputational violence that can affect women’s professional opportunities, personal relationships, and mental health. In Nigeria’s conservative social context where a woman’s perceived sexual conduct can determine everything from marriage prospects to career advancement, such public declarations whether true or fabricated carry the weight of social

assassination.

It should worry us that the traditional forms of gender-based violence have found new expres- sions online. The same misogyny that manifests in physical spaces where the reputations of women and girls are considered fair game has simply migrated to digital platforms where it can operate with greater reach and impunity. When any woman or girl who posts on social media risks having someone she may never have met claim sexual knowledge of her in the comments section, the message is clear: your voice comes with the price of potential humiliation. This chilling effect on participation in digital spaces represents a direct assault on their freedom of expression and is injurious to the health of society.

Addressing digital violence against our women and girls requires action on multiple fronts We need laws that specifically address TFGBV and can be effectively enforced. This means not only updating statutes but also training law enforcement and judicial officers to take such complaints seriously. While the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act of 2015 represents progress in recognizing various forms of gender-based violence, its implementation remains inconsistent, and its

when the votes are not going their way and then invite their friends in the military to take power rather than accept defeat. That is why this orchestrated coup in Guinea-Bissau is dangerous for the democratic health of our continent. And it must not be allowed to stand.

provisions do not fully capture the nuances of digital harassment. Besides, enforcement of certain provisions has become a tool against critics of powerful individuals than against those who perpetrate online violence against women and girls.

Perhaps the biggest responsibility is with platform companies. They must do more than issue community guidelines. They must invest in robust content moderation, respond promptly to reports of harassment and design their systems to discourage rather than amplify abusive behaviour. The current model, which prioritizes engagement over safety, has proven inadequate to the challenge. Coming back home, we need a cultural shift in how we understand and respond to online harassment. Every time we witness such behaviour and remain silent, we become complicit in normalizing it. Every time we laugh at or engage with posts that demean women and girls, we reinforce the structures that enable digital violence.

The ongoing 16 Days of Activism therefore provides an opportunity for each of us to examine our own online behaviour and to commit to creating digital spaces where women and girls can participate fully, safely, and with dignity.

United Capital Projects 30% Inflation Rate for December 2025, Single-digit by Q4 2026

Dike Onwuamaeze

The United Capital has forecasted that Nigeria’s headline inflation would escalate to 30 per cent in

December 2025 after it has declined to 15.48 per cent in November from 16.05 per cent it recorded in October 2025.

It made this projections

in its “Inflation Watch”, a publication of the United Capital Research (UCR) that was released yesterday, which also projected that inflation rate would decline to 20 per

cent in January 2026 before hitting a single digit rate at the last quarter of 2026.

It stated: “Our analysis indicates that the December 2025 headline inflation rate

Envoy Says Efforts Ongoing to Raise Nigeria’s Trade Surplus of $10bn with Europe

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Gautier Mignot has stated that efforts are on to further raise Nigeria’s trade balance of $10 billion surplus, stating that known barriers are to be removed.

Mignot said that the expected EU -Nigeria ministers summit

aims at addressing the trade barriers and other issues.

He said though no date has been fixed for the scheduled summit, everyone was looking towards the first quarter of 2026.

He noted that the summit was part of the programmes arranged for 2026.

EU-Nigeria Trade in none oil is in the region of $10 billion

in favour of Nigeria.

The ambassador made the revelation during a media chat with the media alongside ambassadors from Czech Republic, Sweden, Poland, Italy, Germany, Finland, France and Portugal.

He said some of the 2026 perspectives: “Hold our EUNigeria Ministerial Meeting

to advance our relationship across the board.”

He also noted that the EU will, “continue the roll-out of the Global Gateway, for example with a planned EU+EBRD support to the BRIDGE project to roll out 90,000 km of optic fibre, but also in renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture.”

Shettima: All Hands Must Be on Deck to Boost Nigeria’s Business Environment

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Vice President Kashim Shettima has implored State governments, Min- istries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of the federal government, the organised private sector, and other stakeholders to do more in advancing the business environment in the country.

He acknowledged the

successes recorded this year, describing them, “as the triumph of collaboration over silos,” even as he said when the 36 states of the federation, MDAs, development partners, and other critical sectors commit to working together across the board, it becomes a big win for ShettimaNigeria.gave the charge in Abuja on Tuesday evening during

the Gala and Awards Night organised by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), to celebrate exceptional public service delivery, reform excellence, and collaborative efforts toward improving Nigeria’s business environment.

He said, “The end of this night does not signal the end of your pursuit

of excellence because excellence is a culture, not an event. It lives only where it is nurtured. And so, in the new year, let us do even more to advance the reform agenda for Nigeria’s business environment.

“Let us build a nation where efficiency is normal, where transparency is routine, and where excellence is the governing creed of public service.”

may exceed 30 per cent.

“This surge is not due to actual spike in consumer prices during the month but rather results from the statistical adjustment of the base year—December 2024—to 100 points when the Consumer Price Index (CPI) was rebased.”

It also projected that, “inflation is expected to ease to around 20 percent in January 2026, with a further decline to single-digit levels projected by Q4 2026. This moderation in inflation in

Q4 2026 is likely to have a positive effect on yields in the fixed income market.” It stated that the expected moderation in inflation rate for November 2025, was driven by a slight reduction in the prices of selected food items and Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

“Although the average exchange rate appreciated in November compared with October, the value of Naira depreciated when assessed using month-on-month closing values.

Senate Summons Finance, Education, Other Ministers over $30m Safe School Initiative

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The Senate has intensified its investigation into the collapse of the $30 million Safe School Initiative (SSI), summoning the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, to appear before its Ad-hoc Committee next Tuesday.

The summons, issued during the committee’s maiden meeting on Wednesday, marked a critical escalation in the upper chamber’s efforts to unravel what lawmakers described as a grave failure of

governance in safeguarding Nigerian schoolchildren amid worsening insecurity. Also summoned were the Minister of Education, Mr. Tunji Alausa; Min- ister of Defence, Lt-Gen. Christopher Musa; Com- mandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr. Mohammed Abubakar Audi; and representatives of school proprietors, signalling a sweeping review of all institutions and stakeholders connected to the collapsed initiative.

mALAYSiAn hiGh CommiSSionER ViSiTS LAGoS FREE ZonE...

L-R: Marketing Manager (Trade

High Commission of

olusegun ADENIYI

olusegun.adeniyi@thisdaylive.com

The Danger of ‘Ceremonial’ Coups

It is becoming increasingly clear that what unfolded in Guinea-Bissau last week Wednesday was a brazen drama staged by a desperate presidential incumbent who could read the writing on the wall but was not ready for the people’s verdict. With the election concluded three days earlier and the result being awaited, President Umaro Sissoco Embalo was facing certain defeat, according to most projections. And then he orchestrated what can only be described as Africa’s most transparent attempt at electoral theft through military subterfuge. The script was so poorly written that even foreign election observers saw through it immediately. A former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, who was in the country to monitor the polls, has aptly described what happened as a ‘ceremonial coup’.

It all started with a screaming headline from a French media outlet. “‘I have been deposed,’ Guinea-Bissau’s Embalo tells FRANCE 24.”

According to the online report, Embalo had granted an exclusive phone call with FRANCE 24 where he announced being toppled, while also telling the reporters that “he could not talk further without risking his phone being confiscated.” As if this was not strange enough, following what was said to be an asylum negotiation, Embalo left for the Senegalese capital of Dakar where he spent only a few hours before ending up in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo. The reason Embalo hurriedly left Dakar became apparent when the Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko dismissed the whole fiasco in Guinea-Bissau as a “sham” while calling for the conclusion of the electoral process. “We want the electoral process to continue,” Sonko told Senegalese lawmakers last Friday. “The [electoral] commission must be able to

Deposed Guinea-Bissau President Embalo

declare the winner.”

From Mali to Niger, Chad, Guinea, Sudan, Burkina Faso, Madagascar and now GuineaBissau, there have been eight successful military takeovers within the last five years, mostly within the Sahelian ‘Coup Belt’. Apart from the violent

The people of Guinea-Bissau went to the polls in good faith… And their will must prevail. Anything less would set a catastrophic precedent for the region and signal to every failing autocrat that they too can manufacture an electoral fiasco when the votes are not going their way and then invite friends in the military to take power rather than accept defeat.

jihadist insurgency that has provided a perfect excuse for some military adventurers, the August

2023 overthrow of Gabonese President Ali Bongo was also over a disputed presidential election. But the Guinea-Bissau scenario is completely different. Now, let’s consider the absurdity. A sitting president announces his own overthrow by the military to the international media and hastily assembles junta that installs allies of the supposedly deposed president—his former army chief and finance minister—to run a ‘transitional government.’ If this were not so dangerous to Guinea-Bissau’s democratic aspirations, it would be laughable. Although Embalo was elected president in 2019 on the platform of an opposition faction that grew out of the then ruling African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC)—founded in 1956 by one of Africa’s foremost anti-colonial leaders, Amilcar Cabral—after a run-off, he prevented PAIGC from presenting a candidate in this election. Despite that, it was still difficult for the retired

Digital Predators and Assault on Women

Social media has revolutionized how we communicate, organize, and engage with one another. But this digital revolution has also spawned new forms of violence, especially against women and girls. It is therefore most appropriate that the 2025 edition of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence has the theme, “Unite to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls.” The message is clear: We must turn our gaze to a frontier of abuse that thrives in plain sight yet often escapes serious scrutiny. Nowhere

is this more evident than on X (formerly Twitter) which exemplifies the intersection of online harassment and technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV).

Although my social media presence is marginal, and it is deliberate, I have some young friends who keep me abreast of trending issues. I am therefore aware of the notorious Killjoy ‘Chief’ on X who has made a troubling habit of inserting himself into every conversation involving ladies who are about to get married. Going by his

various claims, he must have slept with all the women and girls in Nigeria. This pattern of behaviour, repeated across numerous posts and threads, represents far more than crude boastfulness or poor social media etiquette. It is, in fact, a form of digital violence that carries serious implications for the women targeted, whether named or implied, and for our society’s broader approach to their safety in online spaces.

Office),

Malaysia, Abuja, Umar Salihu Abdul; High Commissioner of Malaysia to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Aiyub bin Omar; Chief Executive Officer, Lagos Free Zone, Adesuwa Ladoja, and First Secretary (Trade), High Commission of Malaysia, Abuja, Jude Bryan Dass, during a tour of Lagos Free Zone (LFZ) by the High Commissioner of Malaysia …. yesterday