Ojulari: NNPC to Resume Drilling in Kolmani Field, Issues with Dangote Refinery Resolved
Says conflicts will no longer be resolved on newspaper pages Nigeria’s April oil output rises marginally, reaches 3-month high
Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) had halted the exploration of crude oil
in the northern part of Nigeria, the new Group Chief Executive Officer of the company, Bayo Ojulari, said
the project will continue in June. Ojulari, who spoke in Hausa in an interview yesterday on the
BBC Hausa Service, said the drilling project in Kolmani at the boundary of Bauchi and Gombe states, when
US, China Reach Temporary Deal to Slash Tariffs to 30%, 10%... Page 9
www.thisdaylive.com
Wike Tightens Grip on PDP as Anyanwu Reassumes Role as National Secretary
Signs party’s memo to INEC on names of candidates for Anambra guber poll at deadline FCT minister denies tearing down party, insists he’s rebuilding it, blames Fubara for Rivers crisis
Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, might have begun to tighten his grip on Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) following yesterday’s resumption of duty by his ally, the
embattled National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu. That was despite a meeting by PDP governors on Sunday night, which proposed the way forward
for the party amid its internal crisis. Anyanwu, alongside acting National Chairman of PDP, Amb. Illya Damagum, at the deadline yesterday, submitted the names
Continued on page 9 of the party’s candidates for the Anambra State governorship election, slated to hold in November, to
W’Bank Urges Full Transfer of Subsidy Removal Revenues to Federation Account
Says 2025 budget has overly ambitious revenue assumptions $1tn economy only possible if economy grows five times faster
Calls for sustenance of reforms Edun, Cardoso, Bagudu upbeat about economic trajectory
WAITING FOR THE REMAINS OF PA EDWIN CLARK...
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Contrary to insinuations that
L-R: National Chairman, Pan Niger Delta Forum, Dr. Boladei Igali; Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party Presidential Candidate in the 2023 elections, Mr. Peter Obi; Former First Lady of Nigeria, Dame Patience Jonathan; Former President Goodluck Jonathan; Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri; and President, Ijaw
Chuks Okocha, Olawale Ajomotokan in Abuja and Funmi Ogundare in Lagos Minister of the Federal Capital
The PDP letter to INEC co-signed by Anyanwu
2025 TEKNOWLEDGE NIGERIA GXO SUMMIT...
Labour Reform: FG Pledges to Ensure Gender
Equity, Protection of Vulnerable Workers
Asks NASS to expedite passage of key labour bills Abbas: 10th House proactive, productive for two years Tinubu’s bold reforms’ve laid foundation for prosperity, Kalu declares
Onyebuchi Ezigbo and Juliet Akoje in Abuja
The federal government has said it will ensure that women and other vulnerable workers have equal access to employment opportunities, devoid of any form of discrimination.
The Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, disclosed made this pledge while presenting a keynote address at the 2025 Senior Officers’ Conference of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, held in Keffi, Nasarawa State.
Also, yesterday, the federal government tasked National Assembly to accelerate the passage of key labour reform bills seeking to reposition Nigeria’s labour administration system.
A statement signed by Head, Press and Public Relations, Patience Onuobia quoted Dingyadi as saying that other guiding principles of the reforms would include strengthening institutional capacity, digitising service delivery, enhancing tripartite collaboration, enhancing occupational safety and health coverage, and reinforcing accountability and compliance mechanisms.
The minister said the theme of the conference, “Reforming Labour Administration System in Nigeria,” not only reflected the priorities of the Ministry, but also resonated with the aspirations of the nation to harness its human capital for sustainable development and global competitiveness.
He added that the global changing patterns of work, technological advances, demographic shifts, climate change, worldwide economic transformation system and globalisation were reshaping the way people work, where they work, when they work and how they relate within and outside the workplace.
Dingyadi said the Ministry needed to rise to the realities of the time and reform to build a resilient, agile, and inclusive labour administration system that is efficient, transparent, and responsive to the needs of modern-day Nigeria.
He said the Labour Administration System in Nigeria has played a pivotal role in maintaining industrial peace and harmony, promoting employment, safeguarding the rights of both employers and workers, as well as paving the way for national growth and development
“The Conference therefore offers us a golden opportunity for us to reflect, reset, and renew our commitment to the ideals of decent work and equitable labour practices,” he said.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Labour and Employment, Salihu Usman, said the evolving dynamics of work demand that Nigeria re-evaluate its status to ensure it keeps pace.
According to him, new technological advancements and innovations, including Artificial Intelligence, and other emerging trends, have
transformed the world of work.
Usman said the conference would afford the staff opportunity to reflect on how best to reposition labour administration system in the country to respond to the challenges of the time.
Meanwhile, the federal government has tasked the National Assembly to accelerate the passage of key labour reform bills seeking to reposition Nigeria’s labour administration system.
The Minister who gave the charge yesterday during the inaugural
Policy Dialogue on the Legislative Agenda of the 10th House of Representatives, organised by Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC), UK Aid and National Assembly Library Trust Fund (NALTF), expressed optimism that the proposed bills when passed into law would create an enabling environment for robust investments, enhanced productivity and attainment of social justice.
He said: “I make a passionate plea to the House of Representatives to facilitate the speedy passage of national labour laws. Listing among
them are the Labour Standards Bill, Collective Labour Relations Bill, and the Occupational Safety and Health Bill.
“When enacted, these bills will not only reposition Nigeria’s labour administration system, but will create an enabling environment for robust investments, enhanced productivity and attainment of social justice,”
Earlier, the Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, said the 10th House has been proactive and productive since its inauguration almost two years
ago. Abbas also noted that the Legislative Agenda of the 10th, with far-reaching and ambitious proposals and targets, has produced results.
The Speaker made this known in Abuja, yesterday, at the inaugural Policy Dialogue on the Legislative Agenda of the House, which had top government officials and organisations at the federal and state levels in attendance.
The private sector and the diplomatic corps were also represented.
FEC Okays 17 Life Assurance Underwriters For Tinubu, Shettima, Ministers, Others
Mulls criminalising those stealing govt properties at night Approves new national policy on employment
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
The Federal Executive Council has okayed 17 Group Life Assurance Underwriters for the President, Vice President, Chief of Staff to the President, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Head of federal civil service, Ministers, Permanent Secretaries and Federal Government workers.
Addressing newsmen on Monday after the FEC meeting at the State House, Abuja, Head of Civil Service of the Federation, HOCS, Dr. Didi Easter Walson-Jack, said the approval for the 17 underwriters will cover 2025/2026 policy year, adding that the policy would commence from the date of payment of premium to underwriters in line with the no premium, no cover policy.
like Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Fire Service, etc
Her words: “I have the privilege to present the approval of the Federal Executive Council as regards the Group Life Assurance Scheme.
She further explained that the policy also covers paramilitary organisations
Shettima: Nigeria Building Bridges to Take MSMEs Across African Market Borders
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Vice President Kashim Shettima has said the administration of President Bola Tinubu has taken bold steps to construct digital highways and bridges that would carry micro, small and medium-scale enterprises (MSMEs) across borders into the heart of the African market. According to him, while over 83 per cent of employment in Africa lies in the informal economy, the continent was not short on ideas and digital innovation that offer an unprecedented window to compete with the rest of the world.
Shettima made this known yesterday, when he inaugurated the oversight committee recently approved by
President Tinubu to organise Nigeria’s hosting of the 4th African Union (AU) MSME Forum, scheduled to hold between June 23 and 27 in Abuja. Listing some of the administration’s policies and programmes in this direction, the vice president recalled that Nigeria chaired and spearheaded the AfCFTA Negotiating Forum, and has aligned its investment, digital trade, and competition policies with the agreement.
He noted that it was for this reason that Nigeria also established a Technology Export and Digital Trade Desk to support the nation’s entrepreneurs in exporting services and digital goods across Africa.
Shettima said the i-DICE Programme, a $617.7 million investment in
digital and creative enterprises, and the 3 Million Tech Talent Programme, were set out to achieve by training Nigerian youths in coding, data science, and digital fluency to power the nation’s transformation.
The vice president conveyed the assurance of President Bola Tinubu that Nigeria was ready to lead in shaping Africa’s digital trade future, even as the nation is harmonising its laws to make cross-border commerce seamless, secure, and scalable.
According to him, “We have reformed. We have invested. And we are resolved to see this transformation through. But none of us can achieve this in isolation. That is why this forum is not just important. “It is indispensable. It provides the blueprint, the platform,
and the partnerships that will empower African MSMEs to become the heartbeat of our economic renewal.”
Earlier, Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), Senator Ibrahim Hadejia, who is chairman of the organising committee, said the forum would provide a veritable platform for exchanging knowledge and ideas on MSME development and facilitate collaboration across the continent.
Furthermore, he said the theme of the summit, which was, “building resilient MSMEs through digital innovation, market access and affordable financing for Africa,” aligns with the efforts of the Tinubu administration in supporting development and growth in the sector.
“This scheme underscores the importance that the President Bola Tinubu administration has placed on welfare of staff, specifically the welfare of the federal public servants, the Group Life Assurance Scheme is a scheme whereby the federal government has taken out a life policy on each public servant.
“And this means that if the unfortunate incident of death occurs, the deceased public servant’s next of kin stands to have a benefit to help the family cushion the family at that time of loss.
“This year, the group life assurance scheme covers key government officials, comprising Mr President, the Vice President, the Chief of Staff, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Ministers, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Permanent Secretaries and staff of federal government ministries and treasury funded agencies, that is the deep extra ministerial departments and agencies as well.
“The scheme also covers the para military agencies such as Nigerian Immigration Service, Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, Nigeria Correctional Service, the Federal Fire Service, Federal Road Safety Corps,
National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and the Office of the National Security Adviser.
“The Group Life Assurance Scheme is an annual one, and today’s approval was for the 2025/2026 policy year. The policy would commence from the date of payment of premium to underwriters in line with the no premium, no cover policy.
“I would like to just quickly take you through the actual approval for today. The approval for today was for the appointment of 17 insurance underwriters for the group life assurance cover and for the year 2025/ 2026 as I had earlier mentioned, and the premium is paid to the insurance companies for the duration of 12 months.
“So this policy will expire next year. I just like to say that in as much as this policy has existed throughout this administration and even previous administrations, we find that not too many people know about the policy, and so we have, from my office, even planned to carry out a sensitization, which will be coming up very soon.
“But I’m so happy to be given the opportunity today to talk about this policy, because this policy affects every public servant, including most of you seated here.
“So on this note, I’d like to thank you and to say that this administration has placed welfare of the public servant very highly, so that no deceased public officers family should be left without succour.”
L-R: Chief Revenue and Transformation Officer, Teknowledge, Nidal Abou-Ltaif; President/ Chief Executive Officer, Aileen Allkins; Founder, YNV Group, Yaniv Natan; Territory Director, Africa, Teknowledge, Olugbolahan Olusanya; and Chief Technology Officer, Mahmood Lockhat, at the 2025 TeKnowledge Nigeria CxO Summit, in Lagos...yesterday
UNVEILING OF MAJEURS HOLDINGS BRAND AMBASSADOR...
BPP Complies with FEC Directive, Issues
New Limit for Goods, Services Procurement
Urges MDAs, stakeholders to ensure compliance with presidential order FG canvasses active participation of private sector in nation’s economic growth Confirms Nigeria has offset $3.4bn COVID loan, unveils cultural monetisation plan Targets $100bn revenue from cultural, tourism assets by 2030, okays N1.2trn for roads, power, aviation projects
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Following a directive by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) at its meeting, yesterday, the Bureau of Public Procurement has issued a new threshold on procurement of goods and services by Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
Addressing newsmen after the Council meeting at the State House, Abuja, Information and National Orientation Minister, Mohammed Idris, disclosed that upon the approval by President Bola Tinubu, FEC directed the Bureau for Public Procurement to communicate the new threshold on procurement of goods and services.
He said: “You will agree with me that the threshold has been there for a very long time, and this is also contributing to the number of members that come to the Council for approval. So there is a new approval.
“Details will be communicated by the Bureau of Public Procurement. This will notify MDAs on the new threshold for project goods and services.”
The BPP, later yesterday evening, complied with the FEC directive via a statement issued by its Director General, Dr Adedokun Adebowale, in which it called on all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), as well as relevant stakeholders, to fully comply with the new Presidential Directives on public procurement, as approved by the Federal Executive
Council (FEC) during its meeting held on Monday, May 5, 2025.
According to the release: “The newly approved ‘Nigeria First’ policy prioritises Nigerian industries and contractors in all public procurement activities and is a key component of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“The BPP commends President Tinubu, and the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for this strategic policy initiative to enhance local industries’ capacity, competitiveness, and sustainability.
“In light of this development, the BPP urges all MDAs and procurement stakeholders to familiarise themselves with the policy details articulated by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, during the post-FEC briefing to the State House Press Corps.
“To ensure effective implementation, the BPP stands ready to engage with procurement officers and stakeholders to develop and operationalise a Local Content Compliance Framework. This will provide clear guidelines and support mechanisms for achieving compliance regarding the policy’s objectives.
“The standard Bidding Document is one of the newly revised 17 Standard Bidding Documents. In collaboration with our development partners, BPP is now training procurement officers and contractors on its use in the ongoing capacity-building programme in the
six geopolitical zones.
“Furthermore, a comprehensive Guideline on Local Content Compliance will be issued. Relevant stakeholders will be invited to provide input to enrich the document and foster shared ownership of the implementation process.
“In addition, the BPP will brief the public to create awareness and build widespread support for the policy. These engagements will ensure clarity, transparency, and a broad-based understanding of the new requirements.
“A further Circular from the
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) will be issued to reinforce the implementation mandate across all government institutions, providing additional policy direction and compliance expectations.
“The President directed that the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) should issue an Executive Order to give full legal backing and enforceability to the new policy directives, ensuring nationwide compliance and institutional reinforcement.
“Specifically, the BPP notes and reaffirms its commitment to executing
the following Presidential Directives:
*Immediate revision and enforcement of procurement guidelines to prioritise locally made goods and indigenous solutions.
*Establishment of a Local Content Compliance Framework applicable to all federal government procurements.
*Create and maintain a register of high-quality Nigerian manufacturers and service providers regularly engaged by the government.
*The BPP, as the designated line agency, supervises the deployment and management of procurement officers
in all MDAs without compromising operational efficiency.
“Accordingly, the BPP directs all MDAs to undertake the following actions with immediate effect:
*Ensure that locally available goods and services are prioritised in all procurement activities. Procurement of foreign goods or services must not proceed without justification and prior written waiver from the BPP. Where local options are unavailable, contracts must include provisions for technology transfer, local production, or skills development.
Underperformance: FG to Overhaul Discos, Begins Pilot Scheme with Two Firms
The federal government has begun moves to reform and revitalise Nigeria’s electricity distribution sector, starting with a pilot overhaul of two underperforming Distribution Companies (Discos).
The move followed a comprehensive assessment of systemic challenges plaguing the Discos, including governance gaps, infrastructure deficits, and commercial inefficiencies.
Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, disclosed the plan yesterday
in Abuja after a meeting with the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA), which presented a roadmap titled, “Revamping of the Distribution Sector in Nigeria.”
According to a statement by the minister’s Special Adviser on Strategic Communications and Media Relations, Mr. Bolaji Tunji, the pilot scheme, slated to commence between May and August 2025, will target one Disco in the North and another in the South.
The scheme aimed to demonstrate a replicable model for operational turnaround, combining internal re-
structuring, external expertise, and federal oversight to achieve rapid improvements in service delivery.
JICA’s proposal emphasised reforming Discos “from within”, by integrating outside experts, strengthening leadership, and aligning government support with short-term results in pilot zones to lay the groundwork for long-term sector-wide transformation.
Adelabu stressed the urgency of the intervention, stating, “We can no longer fold our hands and watch the inadequacies of DisCos whose
In Watershed for Aviation Sector, FG Unveils Revised Insurance Regulations for Leased Aircraft to Curb Flight Disruptions, Others
Keyamo reaffirms government’s determination to remove aviation bottlenecks Omosehin: It’s a milestone for sustainable aviation insurance
Nigerian aviation operators, adding that the regulation will go a long way to reduce the cost of air tickets in the country, give comfort to Nigerian airline operators, and restore confidence among foreign investors.
as the beginning of a revolution in the aviation sector. Omosehin said the document represented a turning point in aviation leasing and financing to
The unveiling of the revised framework took place in Abuja. Keyamo said, “The federal government is doing a lot to ensure airline operators enjoy friendly insurance policies that would help the operators do their businesses with ease.
“We are proud of the progress made in enhancing the aviation ecosystem in Nigeria, our focus is on investor-friendliness, empower the local operators, ensure compliance with international standards, and drive growth and development in the aviation industry.”
He stated that the revised insurance regulations were expected to boost the aviation sector, improve Irrevocable Deregistration and Export Request Authorisation (IDERA), and allow local operators to cede up to 90 per cent of risk to
international markets under certain conditions, in line with the Cape Town Convention. The minister commended NAICOM for working hard to ensure the policy saw the light of day. Omosehin said the development marked a significant milestone in promoting a stable and sustainable aviation insurance market and a testament to the current administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment that fostered growth, investment, and development.
performances fall short of expectations. This pilot is not optional – we will use regulatory authority to restructure underperforming Discos and compel compliance if necessary.”
He acknowledged persistent resistance to past reforms, but vowed to address both universal challenges – such as vandalism and governance – and region-specific issues, including cultural barriers hindering operations.
Adelabu said key to the initiative was resolving the Discos’ inability to invest in infrastructure upgrades. He stated, “Their lack of investment is not solely due to unwillingness but also a lack of incentives.
“Returns on infrastructure spending are not commensurate, so we must attract investors and franchise in viable and the not so viable areas to capable operators, so we can have a mix.”
He directed the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to enforce franchising opportunities and ensure Discos’ cooperation, stating, “NERC must secure their buy-in. Past efforts failed due to resistance, but this time, we will be intentional and decisive.”
The minister also highlighted the need for public education to clarify the roles of generation, transmission, and distribution entities.
“Many Nigerians still view the sector as a single entity. Educating consumers is critical to building trust and support for these reforms,” he added.
Peter Uzoho
L-R: Content Marketing Lead, Majeurs Holdings, Alora Owoseje; Founder/Chief Executive Officer, Demi Samande; Veteran Nollywood Actress, Madam Idowu Phillips (Iya Rainbow); and Dean of Academy, Majeurs Holdings, Kemmal Onuoha, during the unveiling of Iya Rainbow as Brand Ambassador for Majeurs Holdings, at the company’s
US, China Reach Temporary Deal to Slash Tariffs to 30%, 10%
How trade war halted $600 billion in bilateral trade Financial markets agog, stocks jump
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The US and China yesterday agreed to temporarily slash their steep tariffs on each other, sending global stocks and the dollar surging, as the world’s top two economies tapped the brakes on a trade war that had fed fears of a global recession.
Under the new deal, the US will cut extra tariffs it imposed on Chinese imports last month from 145 per cent to 30 per cent for the next 90 days, while Chinese duties on US imports will fall to 10 per cent from 125 per cent.
Financial markets cheered the reprieve in a conflict that had brought nearly $600 billion in two-way trade to a standstill, disrupting supply chains
and triggering layoffs. Investors had also worried about stagflation, a toxic combination of high inflation and weak economic growth, a Reuters report said.
Wall Street stocks jumped and the dollar rose, while safe-haven gold prices fell as the news eased investor concerns that Trump’s trade war could crater the global economy.
Seeking to reduce the US trade deficit, Trump targeted countries worldwide with an array of tariffs, and levies on China were his most aggressive. Financial markets swooned, prompting him to pause most “reciprocal” tariffs on dozens of countries last month.
His erratic approach has rattled investors and weakened Trump’s
approval ratings among US voters worried tariffs will lift prices on everything from toys to cars.
The remaining US tariffs on Chinese imports are still stacked atop prior US duties. Even before Trump took office in January, China was saddled with 25 per cent US tariffs he had imposed on many Chinese industrial goods during his first term, with lower rates on some consumer goods.
Monday’s announcement left these duties unchanged, along with tariffs of 100 per cent on electric vehicles and 50 per cent on solar products imposed by former Democratic President Joe Biden.
The accord does not include the “de minimis” exemptions for low-value e-commerce shipments from China
and Hong Kong, which the Trump administration terminated on May 2, according to a source familiar with the negotiations.
The meetings were the first face-toface interactions between senior US and Chinese economic officials since Trump returned to power.
China’s Vice Premier, He Lifeng, told reporters at China’s mission to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) on Sunday that the talks were “candid, in-depth and constructive.”
“The meeting achieved substantial progress and reached important consensus,” He said.
After Trump hiked tariffs on Chinese goods to 145 per cent, China hit back by putting export curbs on some rare earth elements, vital for
US manufacturers of weapons and electronic consumer goods. Beijing raised tariffs on US goods to 125 per cent.
Shares in European firms hit by the trade war rallied after the deal.
Shipping company Maersk was the biggest gainer in Europe, up more than 12 per cent. It warned last week that container volumes between the US and China had plunged due to the dispute.
“We hope it can lay the foundation for the parties to also reach a permanent deal that can create the long-term predictability our customers need,” Maersk said in a statement.
Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, told US media that much work remained to be done, and neither
W I ke T I g HT en S g r IP on PDP AS An YA n WU r e ASSU me S r ole AS nATI on A l Secre TA r Y the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In the letter dated May 7, 2025, with reference number PDP/DOM/ GF.2/VOL.13/24-065, addressed to National Chairman of INEC, Mahmood Yakubu, PDP listed Ezenwafor Jude. C as its governorship candidate in Anambra, with Hon. Okene Francis Chukwudi as the running mate.
The latest development followed an earlier advice by the INEC leadership to PDP executives, stating that it would not recognise any correspondence from the party if not authored by Anyanwu.
The electoral body, THISDAY
learnt, had taken the step in view of the protracted leadership crisis in the party, followed by the Supreme Court verdict of March 21, which many considered ambiguous.
However, the back and forth over the PDP national secretary came to an end on March 21, when the Supreme Court annulled the sacking of Anyanwu and upheld the appeal court judgment, which recognised him.
Only the national secretary can also summon a meeting of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC).
The development clearly puts PDP in the grip of Wike, who could
swing his influence to determine some of the critical decisions of the party, preparatory to next elections.
Apart from the national chairman and secretary, who is believed to be on Wike’s side, many members of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party and the Board of Trustees (BoT) members were believed to be sentimental to Wike’s cause.
Wike is clearly in control of PDP and would be able to decide the direction the party follows in the run-up to the next major elections.
Some of the decisions likely to be taken ahead of the national convention of the party would include
deciding which zone produces the presidential candidate of the party ahead of the 2027 general election.
With Wike working with the APC government, whose prospective presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu, is from the south, the FCT minister would likely back the party to field a northerner in 2027 – or southerner – depending on what works best for the incumbent.
If PDP chooses its 2027 candidate from the north, where will it choose its candidate from in 2031, when APC would obviously go north after eight years of the current government of a southerner?
Without a doubt, the FCT
W’B A nk Urge S F U ll Tr A n SF er o F S UBSIDY r emovA l r even U e S T o Fe D er ATI on Acco U n T
Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja and Nume Ekeghe in Lagos
The World Bank has called for the complete transfer of revenue gains from the total removal of fuel subsidy into the Federation Account. It said despite the full subsidy removal in October 2024, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) started transferring the revenue gains to the federation only in January 2025.
The bank also stated that resolving any remaining net arrears and channelling the full benefits of subsidy reform to the Federation Account was critical for sound fiscal management.
The recommendations were contained in the World Bank Nigeria Development Update (NDU), which was launched in Abuja yesterday.
On NNPCL, the report titled, “Building Momentum for Inclusive Growth,” said, “First, it is essential to ensure that the full revenue gains from the removal of the PMS subsidy— estimated at about 2.6 per cent of GDP in 2024 – are transferred to the Federation.
“Despite the subsidy being fully removed in October 2024, NNPCL started transferring the revenue gains to the Federation only in January 2025. Since then, it has been remitting only 50 per cent of these gains, using the rest to offset past arrears.
“Resolving any remaining net arrears and channelling the full benefits of subsidy reform to the Federation is critical for sound fiscal management.”
The report also called for close monitoring of the 2025 budget implementation, owing to what it described as “overly ambitious revenue assumptions”, which might lead to a larger-than-anticipated fiscal deficit.
The NDU report said, “The budget aims to boost capital spending, and this must be done sustainably, within the broader objective of fiscal consolidation to complement monetary policy and achieve an overall policy mix that maintains fiscal discipline and brings down inflation.
“Third, sustained efforts to enhance expenditure efficiency and transparency are crucial to maximising development outcomes.”
The report added that inflation remained high and sticky, but it was expected to fall to an annual average of 22.1 per cent in 2025,
as a sustained tight stance firmly established monetary policy credibility and dampened inflationary expectations.
It said, “Now, the challenge is to consolidate macroeconomic stability and ignite inclusive growth through deeper, wider structural reforms. There is a need for the economy to generate more and better jobs at scale and reduce poverty.”
The report also pointed out that Nigeria’s quest to attain a $1trillion economy could only be possible with an annual growth rate five times faster than its current rate of 3.8 per cent.
In his remarks, Acting World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Taimur Samar, said, “Nigeria has made impressive strides to restore macroeconomic stability. With the improvement in the fiscal situation, Nigeria now has a historic opportunity to improve the quantity and quality of development spending, investing more in human capital, social protection, and infrastructure.
“The allocation of public resources can begin to shift away from the past unsustainable pattern and rather towards meeting Nigeria’s large development needs, including the government playing its essential role of providing basic public services and serving as an enabler of the private sector–led growth.”
Unveiling the report, the World Bank Lead Economist for Nigeria, Alex Sienaert, applauded the macroeconomic reforms initiated by the federal government, explaining that they have stabilised the economy and set it on a growth trajectory.
But Sienaert stated that a lot needed to be done to deepen growth and make it inclusive.
He stated that international experience suggested that the public sector could not sustainably generate growth and jobs by itself.
He explained, “Nigeria is no exception, particularly since public resources remain constrained. A useful strategy is to position the public sector to play a dual role as a provider of essential public services, especially to build human capital and infrastructure, and as an enabler for the private sector to invest, innovate, and grow the economy.”
Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, who was one of the many
top government functionaries at the event, said the economy had moved from a period of crisis to a period of macroeconomic stability, which needed to be safeguarded.
According to Edun, the government needs to push for transparency of fiscal data and transparency in the oil and gas sector, explaining that this is critical to what the government is trying to achieve.
He said, “In terms of where we go next, the key is investment. It is investments that allow increases in productivity that grows the economy and creates jobs.”
Edun disclosed that the government was conducting a forensic audit of NNPCL, promising that all monies due to the Federation Account from the state-owned oil company would be recovered.
He applauded the tremendous partnership between Nigeria and the World Bank, the major development partner.
However, Edun’s Budget and Economic Planning counterpart, Abubakar Bagudu, who reacted to NDU’s suggestion that the parameters of the 2025 budget were overly ambitious, disagreed.
Bagudu said the parameters were based on the country’s potential.
He said, “Are the projections in
Nigerians.
In 2019, the national oil company announced the discovery of hydrocarbon deposits in the Kolmani River II Well on the Upper Benue Trough, Gongola Basin, in the north-eastern part of the country.
In 2022, the government commenced oil drilling at the area in commercial quantities, the first in the region after several crude oil explorations in the Upper Benue Trough, saying it will attract foreign investment and generate employment for the people.
At the time, the government said over a billion barrels of oil and 500 billion cubic feet of gas were found within the Kolmani area of Bauchi and Gombe. It stated that the discovery had already attracted $3 billion investment.
Raising hope on continuation of the project, Ojulari stated that alongside others, like the Ajaokuta-
the 2025 budget ambitious? No, they are not, in all modesty. This is because even in the presentation, two things were said: the oil price, which is now $60 per barrel, but the average for Nigeria is $73 because of our premium grades. And then 1.6 million barrels per day production, though disappointing, but we have produced 2.2mbpd and the Ministry of Petroleum has said we have technical and physical capacity to produce these volumes in terms of acreages and technology.”
In his remarks, Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Yemi Cardoso, said the economy required a period of sustained stability to grow, adding that this is what the apex bank has been doing.
Cardoso stated, “We recognise our role as the custodian of stability and we recognise what we have to do to ensure that we accomplish and attain stability. We continue not just in attaining but we continue to protect. With that comes the need to be proactive to be able to understand risk and to be able to move before the risk overwhelms us.”
He said actions taken by CBN had moderated the volatility in the foreign exchange sector, from about four per cent a year ago to less than half per cent currently.
Kaduna-Kano (AKK) pipeline, the companies working on the projects will continue by next month.
He said, “NNPC will continue oil drilling in the Kolmani field and will continue the work on the AKK gas pipeline from Ajaokuta to Kaduna to Kano. The companies working on the projects will continue, and new ones are also welcome.
“The projects are critical in boosting the economy and the impact will be felt by all Nigerians. By next month, people will begin to see. We will start work on the AKK gas pipeline and the Kalmoni, Insha Allah.”
Ojulari also stated that a disagreement that existed between the Dangote refinery and NNPC had been sorted out, assuring that henceforth, matters will no longer be resolved on the pages of newspapers.
He added, “We, as Nigerians, must hail Dangote’s courageous efforts. Whatever he is investing,
a place nor time for a next meeting had been set.
“Over the next 90 days, we have a mechanism to meet with the Chinese trade delegation,” he told MSNBC. “We will be discussing tariffs, nontariff trade barriers, currencies and their subsidies of labour and capital, and how we can open up China to American businesses,” he noted. He said Chinese officials had understood the importance of addressing the fentanyl crisis and for the first time appeared to be working to halt the flow of precursor drugs into the US.
minister might have taken charge in PDP, and going forward, will determine the fate of the party, at least, for now, in the political equation of the country.
Speaking with reporters in Abuja, yesterday, the former Rivers State governor rejected claims that his interventions were tearing the PDP apart. He said he was only trying to prevent the opposition from “sleep-walking into legal disaster.”
Wike stated, “Tearing the party? No. I’m rebuilding it. Our constitution is clear: only the National Chairman or National Secretary can sign documents sent to INEC. If that process is muddled, every candidate we present is at risk.”
He also said, “Area council elections are coming. See, INEC will ask, ‘Who signed your list?’ If it’s the wrong name, the courts will throw the list out. We’ve seen it happen before. Why repeat the same mistake?”
The minister also served notice that any upcoming National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting must be convened strictly by the recognised officers.
He said, “Only the National Secretary can issue a valid NEC notice. If someone else signs, I’ll challenge it in court. That’s not a threat; it’s Supreme Court precedent.”
The PDP governors, Sunday, held an extra ordinary meeting with major stakeholders present, at the Bauchi State Governor’s lodge in Asokoro Abuja
Some of the PDP governors in attendance included Ademola Adeleke, Osun; Dauda Lawal, Zamfara; Caleb Muftewang, Plateau; Bala Mohammed, Bauchi; Seyi Makinde, Oyo;Kefas Agbo, Taraba; and Peter Mbah, Enugu.
Former governors present were former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, who was governor of Kwara State; Sam Egwu of Ebonyi, Achike Udenwa, Imo, Liyel Imoke of Cross River, Olagunsoye Oyinlola of Osun, Ahmed Maikrif of Kaduna, Siraake
he is doing it in Africa. We have addressed the feud between the NNPC and the Dangote refinery.
Very soon, people will start seeing the impact.
“We are cooperating, and better days are ahead. Marketers will buy fuel at the refinery any time they want. If there are any obstacles, we will address them. It won’t be in the news anymore that NNPC and Dangote are fighting. Now, we are working together for the interests of Nigerians.”
Meanwhile, Nigeria raised crude oil production marginally, from 1.401 million barrels per day (bpd) in March to 1.486 million bpd in April, data released by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) stated yesterday.
An analysis of the data showed that production hit a three-month high during the period under consideration, attaining about 99
Dickson of Bayelsa, and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu. Others were Okezie Ikpeazu, Abia; Samuel Ortom, Benue; Adamu Mu’azu, Bauchi; Idris Wada, Kogi; Emmanuel Udom, Akwa Ibom; Gabriel Suswam, Benue; and Sule Lamido, Jigawa. Damagum and the National Legal Adviser, Kamarudeen Ajibade, also attended. But Wike arrived the meeting at 9.24pm, prompting an immediate commencement. After its deliberations, the party resolved to set up a committee chaired by Saraki to fathom the way forward for the party.
THISDAY gathered that the Saraki committee was not a reconciliation committee, as it would contradict the National Reconciliation Committee led by Oyinlola.
Saraki wrote on X, “I just left a meeting of the PDP Governors Forum, attended by its serving and former governors, at the Bauchi Governor’s Lodge. We had a fruitful deliberation on the party’s present challenges and its future.
‘’The meeting was well attended. As part of the decisions taken to chart a way forward, the meeting set up a seven-man committee charged with preparing for a rancour-free NEC meeting scheduled for May 27th and the forthcoming national convention.
‘’The committee is headed by my humble self, and I will have the pleasure of working with my brothers – HE Dauda Lawal, HE Caleb Muftiwang, and HE Peter Mba, governors of Zamfara, Plateau and Enugu States respectively.
“Other members are Sen. Seriake Dickson, Sen. Ibrahim Dankwambo, and forner governor of Abia State, HE, Chief Okezie Ikpeazu. We hope to do our best in delivering on the assignment given to us. Label it
“PDP Strategy Committee on Way Forward.” The PDP Board of Trustees
per cent of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) quota.
In January, the country’s OPEC oil production was 1.53 million bpd, 1.46 million bpd in February, 1.40 million bpd in March, and 1.48 million bpd in April. However, when condensates were added, Nigeria’s production was 1.73 million bpd in January, 1.67 million bpd in February, 1.60 million bpd in March, and 1.68 million bpd in April. “The average crude oil production was 99 per cent of the OPEC quota (1.5 million bpd). Lowest and peak combined crude oil and condensate production in April were 1.60 million bpd and 1.73 million bpd respectively,” NUPRC said. The upstream regulator added, “The daily average production in April was 1,683,307 barrels per day, comprising both crude oil (1,485,700 bpd) and condensate (197,607 bpd).”
US President Donald Trump
HANDOVER OF CUSTODIAN ACCIDENT AND EMERGENCY CENTRE...
Pate: FEC to Make Medical Drugs Affordable to Nigerians
Approves Medipool for competitive pricing, supply of essential medicines nationwide
Awards N2.3bn contract for procurement of cardiac categorisation machine at Usman Dan Fodio University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) rose from its sixth meeting in 2025 on Monday evening with a move to make medical drugs affordable to Nigerians.
The meeting, the second within one week, presided by President Bola Tinubu, was held at Council
NIA:
Chambers, State House, Abuja.
Briefing newsmen at the end of the meeting, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Pate, said the council meeting deliberated on the need to make drugs affordable to the citizenry. He said this informed the approval by FEC for the establishment of Medipool
for competitive pricing and supply of essential medicines across the country.
The minister stated, “Today, the Federal Executive Council considered two elements that were related to health specifically, among other things. The first is in line with the direction of the president for Nigerians to have lower cost of drugs and wider access
to essential medicines, quality access.
“This has been work that we have been undertaking for many months. In fact, for almost a year and a half, government has been trying different ways to reduce the cost, because we know the Nigerians were hurting because of rising cost of pharmaceuticals.
Quackery, Influx of Foreign Firms Threat to Practice of Architecture in Nigeria
Architects’ body celebrates 65 years of existence
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) yesterday raised concern over the rising challenges in the profession, listing the unchecked activities of unregistered practitioners as well as the growing influx of foreign architectural firms as major threats to the future of architecture in Nigeria.
Speaking during a press conference in Abuja, regarding the upcoming 65th anniversary of the organisation, the President of NIA, Mobolaji Adeniyi, lamented the low number of fully registered architects in Nigeria.
She pegged the number at just about 7,000 out of over 15,000 trained professionals, emphasising the dangers posed by unqualified individuals handling building projects.
“When I was young, we used to
call it ‘architecture torture’ because of the rigorous process involved. It’s not the first choice for many students, and even those who study it, many don’t complete the full registration process. You must have the flair, skill, and the will. It’s art and science combined, not something for everyone.
“We have seen so many collapsed buildings in Nigeria, and investigations often reveal they were not handled by registered professionals. The architect is supposed to lead the construction team, ensuring every element is professionally handled, structural, mechanical, and otherwise.
But we see people cutting corners, using quacks, and excluding architects entirely,” she lamented.
On the issue of foreign incursion, Adeniyi expressed strong concern about the re-emergence of international
firms dominating local projects without proper collaboration Nigerian architects.
“Architecture is cultural. You can’t import a design from Tokyo and expect it to work in Lagos. We know our people and how to design for them. The law requires foreign architects to work in partnership with Nigerian architects, but today we are seeing foreign firms bypassing this through ‘design-and-build’ packages,” she explained.
The NIA chief also highlighted government shortcomings, particularly in the enforcement of building standards and the quality of imported materials.
“Most of these failed buildings used substandard materials. The Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) needs to wake up. And beyond that, our professionals are not being paid. You
can’t expect motivation or quality when people are begging for their dues,” she stressed.
The organisation maintained that it’s illegal for anybody who is not licensed to practice architecture in the country, explaining that when this simple rule is adhered to, it will help to reduce the number of building collapses.
Describing the journey so far as that of resilience, and enduring relevance, Adeniyi noted that it was not just a celebration of longevity, but of the lives, the ideas, and the institutions that the NIA has impacted.
“It’s not limited to Nigeria. As you may be aware, even countries as far as the United States are placing executive orders to reduce the cost of pharmaceuticals.
“But in line with the presidential initiative to unlock the healthcare value chain, and the executive order, which the president signed in June 2024, which provided incentives for local manufacturing by taking away tax tariffs for import of raw materials, so that we can encourage our local manufacturers.”
Pate explained, “There’s an element of that executive order, which is to allow us to shape the market by aggregating the demand in the Nigerian health space, and challenge that demand to encourage our local suppliers.
“Today, Council approved Medipool, it’s a group purchasing organisation, for competitive pricing and to be supplier of essential medicines and healthcare products across Nigeria, through the federal government’s intervention, the basic health care provision fund, but also eventually outside that, through federal tertiary hospitals, so that as a buyer, we can negotiate lower prices.”
He said, “So, it’s using monopsony power of government as a large buyer of those commodities, negotiate lower prices and then channel those commodities. And the scope includes, but it’s not limited to, procurement
planning, distribution monitoring, supply chain, logistics management, quality assurance, regulatory compliance, as well as ensuring that local manufacturers are supported.
“Then there are import substitution and the financial management and payment systems, as well as capacity building and training and contingency planning to ensure steady availability of essential drugs that are the quality that Nigerians can benefit from at a lower cost through, a public private partnership.
“And that vehicle Medipool has been vetted through the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission. It has been benchmarked with other global group purchasing organisations, including Kenya, South Africa, Singapore, Saudi Arabia and many other countries.
“And we believe that this is a major intervention that will shape the domestic market, so that the demand for quality pharmaceuticals can be channelled in a way that lowers cost and also improves quality and stimulates local manufacturing that is medical.”
The minister also disclosed that FEC gave its approval for the procurement and installation of N2.3 billion cardiac categorisation machine for Usman Dan Fodio University Teaching Hospital, in Sokoto.
Varsity Don Harps on Challenging Infrastructure Deficit, Funding, Policy Inconsistency, Others
and virtual classrooms.
L-R: Paramount Ruler of Odo-Noforija, Epe, HRM Oba Babatunde Aladeshoyin; Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye; Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. (Mrs.) Kemi Ogunyemi; Deputy Chief of Staff to the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Sam Egube; Oloja of Epe Land, HRM Oba Kamorudeen Ishola Animashaun; Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Group Managing Director, Custodian Investment Plc, Mr. Wole Oshin; Alara of Ilara Kingdom, Epe, HRM Oba Dr. Olukayode Olufolarin Ogunsanwo; and Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, at the handover of the Custodian Accident and Emergency Centre in Epe, located inside the Federal Medical Centre, built and donated by Custodian Investment Plc to the Lagos State government in Epe, Lagos… weekend Hajj 2025: 560 Intending Pilgrims from Kwara Depart to Saudi Arabia
Hammed Shittu in Ilorin
The Kwara State Government has flagged-off this year’s 2025 Hajj exercise with the successful airlift of the first batch of 560 intending pilgrims from the state departing to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The affected pilgrims were accompanied by two officials of the National Hajji Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).
Addressing the pilgrims before their departure, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq urged them
to conduct themselves with dignity and represent the state and Nigeria honourably during their pilgrimage. Governor AbdulRazaq, represented by his Special Adviser and Councilor, Alhaji Saadu Salaudeen, called on the 2,174 intending pilgrims from the state to pray for the peaceful coexistence of the country and the state in particular. The governor who charged the pilgrims to avoid any behaviour that could tarnish the image of the state and Nigeria at large, urged them to maintain peace and harmony with
fellow pilgrims.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Board, Professor Mashood Mahmood Jimba, and the Amirul-Hajj for this year, the Olupo of Ajase-Ipo, Oba Ismail Yahaya Alebiosu, advised all the intending pilgrims to uphold good conduct throughout the pilgrimage.
In his farewell message, the Executive Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Abdulkadir Abdulsalam, said a total of two thousand, one hundred and seventy-four pilgrims will be airlifted in four separate flights as part of this year’s pilgrimage operations.
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, Prof. Ishaya Tanko, has emphasized the need to look inwards and challenge the norms affecting the rise of AI-driven analytics, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the country, particularly in tertiary education.
He said the challenges affecting ICT in tertiary institutions include infrastructure deficit, funding constraints, low digital literacy, policy inconsistency and skills gap.
Delivering his keynote speech during the 2025 annual conference of Committee of Directors of ICT of Nigerian Tertiary Institutions, ComDICT- NTI, themed, “Accelerating digital transformation in Nigerian Tertiary education through Strategic
ICT leadership”, he said in developed countries, universities are leveraging data analytics, cloud computing, e-learning platforms, and smart infrastructure to improve teaching, learning, and governance, and as such, Nigeria must not be left behind.
In his address titled “transformative ICT leadership for sustainable tertiary education in Nigeria”, Prof. Tanko noted that higher education is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by technological advances, globalization, and evolving student expectations which are bound to harvest massive dividends for the Nigerian economy if seriously utilized.
According to him, “This transformation allows for a shift from traditional lecture-based learning to more dynamic and engaging methods, such as online courses
“Transformative ICT leadership is crucial for sustainable tertiary education in Nigeria, enabling a shift from traditional teaching methods to modern, technology-driven approaches.
“This leadership fosters digital literacy among students and staff, improves teaching and learning, streamlines administration, and enhances the institution’s global competitiveness.
“By effectively integrating ICT, Nigerian tertiary institutions can achieve sustainable development goals, including quality education and innovation. In Nigeria, the integration of ICT in universities has led to improved teaching methods, enhanced student engagement, and streamlined communication.”
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
LAWYER
VDM: Cyberstalking or Gagging?
Privity of Contract in Actions Founded on Letters of Credit
Page IV
Quotables
‘Who told you I was going to step down?….I’m not one of those people, that you will say will step down for false allegations, then when it is eventually proved that the allegations are false, they will say ‘Oh, they were unfair to Akpabio’. No!’ - Senator Godswill Akpabio, GCON; Lawyer; Senate President, 10th National Assembly, Nigeria; APC Senator representing Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District
‘Why are people afraid of State Police? We need to relegate politics, and focus on governance and security.’ - Senator Uba Sani, Governor of Kaduna State, Nigeria
CJN Pledges to Deepen Nigerian Judiciary, ECOWAS Court Relationship
Page V
NBA-SBL Set for 19th Edition of International Business Law Conference in Lagos Page V
Supreme Court Revokes Fred Ajudua's Bail
Page V
Privity of Contract in Actions Founded on Letters of Credit
Fact
s The Appellant averred that there existed a business relationship between the Appellant and Respondent subject to contract JY-OONL and KTTA14045 in the value of $64,107,180.00 for export of Tin, Columbite and Tantalite Ores. The terms of the contractual relationship was established to involve the intermediary firm - Eglone Group Asia Pte Ltd – as the offshore brokerage firm, and the third party company, Miracle Waters Ltd as the local supplier of material goods. The Appellant stated that the Respondent as the confirming bank, had specific duties and obligations distinct and separate to the Appellant, while the Appellant as the Exporter had specific duties and obligations to King-Tan Tantalum Industry Ltd and Guangdong Jiayuan Metals Co. Ltd. as importers with Industrial and Commercial Bank of China as the issuing bank. It was the case of the Appellant that due to the Respondent’s negligence to and failure to carry out its obligations on time by confirming the Letters of Credit issued by the buyer’s bank - Industrial and Commerce Bank of China (ICBC), the contract was terminated and default fees were unilaterally deducted by the Respondent from the Appellant’s account.
Miffed by the cancellation of the contracts, the Appellant instituted an action at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory vide a Writ of Summons claiming inter alia, “the sum of Four Thousand, Four Hundred and Eighty- Six Dollars, Four Cents ($4486.04) (equivalent in Naira value of NGN740,256.00) at the material time of the exchange rate of NGN165.00 per USD being the money unlawfully withdrawn from the Plaintiff's Domiciliary account No. 5070298728 to pay off the penalty/default charges on the performance board.”
The Appellant also claimed for special, anticipated and aggravated damages against the Respondent.
After the conclusion of the trial, the court found that the Respondent Bank was not negligent and therefore, not liable in damages to the Appellant. The suit was therefore, dismissed.
Aggrieved, the Appellant appealed to the Court of Appeal. The Court of Appeal found that the Respondent was negligent, and ordered the refund of the penalty fees paid on behalf of the Appellant in the sum of $4,486.04. Still dissatisfied, particularly in relation to award of monetary damages (which the Appellant believed should have been more), the Appellant further appealed to the Supreme Court.
Issues for Determination
1. Whether the Court of Appeal can rewrite the UCP Rules which established the rights and obligations of parties in international trade transactions, which is binding on the extant contract as specified.
2. Whether the lower court having found that the Respondent was negligent and it is its negligence that breached the contract and occasioned the losses suffered by the Appellant, was right when it failed to indemnify the Appellant in damages commiserate to the losses suffered by the Appellant.
Arguments
On the first issue, Counsel for the Appellant submitted that the decision of the lower court is inconsistent with trade customs and practice. Counsel argued that in international trade transactions, the defaulting party, being the Respondent, liable for a breach of contract, takes the liabilities and responsibilities of its own actions subject to the Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits (UCP) Rules. He contended that these liabilities are not transferrable to the non-defaulting Appellant, who is not responsible for the incurred losses caused by the defaulting party. Counsel therefore, argued that the decision of the lower court to have the non-defaulting Appellant pay default fees or incur losses caused by the Respondent, even when it is forbidden by the terms of the contract, is perverse.
In response, Counsel for the Respondent submitted that the decision of the lower court does not in any way violate any of the UCP Rules; that damages are not awarded for “anticipated losses” but for actual damage or loss, except general damages. Counsel argued that since the Respondent was not a party to the contracts allegedly breached, the Respondent cannot be held liable under the said contracts. He argued that the default fees, commissions, etc. enumerated in the said contracts are only payable by a party in breach and not by a third party, and the Respondent cannot be vicariously liable under the said contract in place of the Appellant.
On the second issue, the Appellant reiterated that in international trade transactions, subject to UCP, damages under breach of contract, are reparable or fixable by payment of default/penalty fees as remedies required to fix or repair the damages caused. He
In the Supreme Court of Nigeria Holden at abuja
On Friday, the 24th day of May, 2024
Before their lordships
Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-ekun Mohammed Lawal Garba Helen Moronkeji Ogunwumiju Ibrahim Mohammed Musa Saulawa Tijjani abubakar
Justices, Supreme Court SC/CV/709/2020
OWIGS aNd OBIGS NIG. LTd
ZeNTIH BaNK PLC
Between
aPPeLLaNT And
ReSPONdeNT (Lead Judgement delivered by Honourable Tijjani Abubakar, JSC)
submitted that the two-party contract between the confirming Bank and the Seller/Appellant with the third party (Eglone Group Asia Pte and Miracle Waters Limited) were based on the fact that confirmed Letters of Credit were required to be issued by the Respondent as the confirming Bank, and these contracts were bound together under one governing rule, subject to the same principle and consequently, dissolved as one contract under the Letters of Credit. He continued, stating that the breach deduced from the records before the court are breach of trust and confidentiality rules and breach of contractual duty of care, which should have entitled the Appellants to all the reliefs sought and not just only the sum of $4,486.04 awarded in its favour.
Responding, Counsel for the Respondent argued otherwise. He submitted that the lower court was right in refusing to award further damages in favour of the Appellant, aside the order for refund the penalty fee of $4,486.04 paid out by the Respondent on behalf of the Appellant. Submitting further, Counsel argued that even though there are four autonomous transactions in international trade transactions, the purported contract which the appeal relates to is the one between the confirming bank, the Respondent and the Appellant, and not the other three between the buyer and the seller,
“Financial institutions are not obligated to or concerned with any contract that may be referenced in a Letter of Credit, despite the fact that the Letter of Credit may include some reference to that contract….Letters of Credit are completely independent of the underlying sale/purchase contract; they are autonomous of the performance of the underlying contract”
Letter of Credit may include some reference to that contract. A bank’s promise to honour, negotiate or fulfil any other obligation arising from the credit is not subject to claims or objections by the Applicant, because of the Applicant’s ties with the issuing and beneficiary banks, and the agreements between the banks, or between the purchaser and the issuing bank, cannot be used by the vendor. The independence of the Letter of Credit is described as, the autonomy principle. Letters of Credit are completely independent of the underlying sale/ purchase contract; they are autonomous of the performance of the underlying contract. Some of the recognised exceptions recognised in advanced jurisdictions in relation to the autonomy principle are: fraud, unconscionability, illegality, recklessness of the beneficiary, etc.
Flowing from the above, the Supreme Court held that even though the ‘contract’ between the Appellant and Respondent was interconnected with the other contracts between the Appellant and third parties, as well as between the Respondent, as confirming Bank and the issuing Bank, these contracts were autonomous, giving rise to distinct rights and obligations. The Court therefore, rejected the argument canvassed by the learned Counsel for the Appellant that both the underlying contracts and the ‘contract’ for the Respondent to act as confirming Bank in connection with the letters of credit should be treated as one.
The Apex Court further reiterated the settled position of law that only a party to a contract has the capacity to terminate the contract. Therefore, a person who is not a party to a contract or transaction does not have the capacity to terminate the contract, and this accords with the elementary principle of law that it is only the parties to a contract that can sue on the contract or be sued.
the buyer and the issuing bank or the issuing bank and the confirming or correspondent bank. Court’s Judgement and Rationale
The Supreme Court highlighted that the issue in the appeal turns on the question of damages to which the Appellant is entitled to, upon a finding by the lower court that the Respondent was negligent as it failed to confirm the relevant Letter of Credit. The court explained that the UCP 600 is a set of rules agreed by the International Chambers of Commerce, which apply to finance Institutions which issue Letters of Credit — financial instruments helping companies finance trade. In Nigeria, UCP 600 became effective on the 1st July, 2007, vide a notice/circular issued on 25th June, 2007, by the Central Bank of Nigeria. Their Lordships noted that the grievance of the Appellant in the appeal centres on the fact that the lower court, by its decision that the Appellant did not prove that the sums claimed as anticipated profit, default charges or commission are actual losses, capable of being granted as special damages, has rewritten the provisions of UCP 600 which governs the contractual relationship of the parties. However, their Lordships found that the Appellant did not point to the court any of the provisions of the UCP 600 which was purportedly re-written, or any provisions which the decision of the lower court ran afoul of.
The Supreme Court then considered whether the contracts of purchase/supply/brokerage between the Appellant and third parties as well as the “contract” between the Appellant and the Respondent as “confirming bank” under the Letters of Credit could be treated as a single contract. On the foregoing question, Their Lordships held that the advising or confirming banks do not have any legal relationship with the beneficiary – AKINSANYA v UBA (1986) 4 NWLR (PT. 35) 273. Financial institutions are not obligated to or concerned with any contract that may be referenced in a Letter of Credit, despite the fact that the
Regarding the claims for monetary reliefs, Their Lordships agreed with the lower court that the monetary reliefs sought by the Appellant, save for the relief for aggravated damages, were by their nature, special damages, which by law, were required to be particularised in the pleadings and specifically pleaded, and proved and that there was no proof of actual loss to the Appellant as the Appellant did not lead evidence to demonstrate that it had already paid out or incurred the monetary sums being claimed as commissions and default fees due to third parties, to entitle it to an award under the heads of claim in its favour. The Supreme Court held that A fortiori, the onus is on the Plaintiff to establish the accuracy of the projected gross profit in proof of his claim. Thus, if evidence which will help the court to assess the accuracy of the projected profit is inadequate, lacking or not convincing, it is the Plaintiff who will fail in his claim for anticipated profit. Being a claim for special damages, which can only succeed in respect of actual and not estimated or anticipated loss of profit, the amount claimed by the Appellant as loss of profit was an estimated or speculative profit at the time when the action was commenced at the trial court. The Court therefore, held that the claim for loss of profit had not been made by the Appellant, and the issue was resolved against the Appellant and the judgement of the lower court was affirmed. Appeal Dismissed.
Dissenting Opinion of Honourable Ogunwumiju, JSC on relief 8 Regarding relief 8 in the Appellant’s Writ of Summons which relates to claim for the sum of N2 billion Naira as damages for loss of goodwill and further trading opportunity with the Chinese Chambers of Commerce/International Chambers of Commerce of Asia, Her Lordship opined that the Respondent deliberately frustrated the terms of an international contract by refusing to issue the Appellant’s confirmed Letter of Credit which caused the Appellant incalculable harm in its business with its resultant effect on the employees of the company. The Supreme Court is not only a court of justice, but a custodian of the law. An innocent party should not come to the court, and leave without respite. Though the Appellant here was not able to establish the special damages claimed, it is entitled to compensation for its loss of business and loss of trust with its international business partners which was occasioned by the Respondent’s unilateral breach of contract and negligence. Given that general damages are subjective and need not be determined by invoices and receipts, Her Lordship thereby, granted general damages to the Appellant in the sum of N500 million against the Respondent for the loss of goodwill and further trading opportunities with the Chinese Chambers of Commerce/International Chambers of Commerce of Asia. Her Lordship, allowed the appeal in part.
Representation
Emmanuel I. Ikpebe with Grace E. Elechi for the Appellant. Dr James Agbonhese for the Respondent.
Reported by Optimum Publishers Limited, Publishers of the Nigerian Monthly Law Reports (NMLR)An Affiliate of Babalakin & Co.
Honourable Tijjani Abubakar, JSC
Introduction
Arobust discussion is essential, for understanding the role of Election Tribunals in our electoral jurisprudence. This discussion should occur at least two years before the 2027 general election. Early discussion of the role of Election Tribunals may be free from partisan political considerations, emotions, or grandstanding. Delaying until close to the election may obscure the issues; lessons will not be learned, and nothing concrete or substantial will be achieved.
The current narrative suggests that Election Tribunals are not part of Nigeria's electoral jurisprudence, and disrupt the electoral process. It is argued that Election Tribunals impose candidates on the Nigerian people, and usurp the people's mandate as the source of sovereignty.
We must examine whether election tribunals are relevant and necessary for adjudicating electoral disputes, or if they complicate or distort the electoral choices made by the populace at polling stations. We must also consider whether the media and the Nigerian public, understand the election petition process. Additionally, we should assess the role of social media in accurately or inaccurately reporting the election petition process. Should the Judiciary permit live broadcasts or reporting of election petition tribunals? Has Nigeria and the legal profession, benefited from the “Nollywoodisation” of the election petition process?
Although we are still years away from the 2027 general election, it is time to reflect on some fundamental challenges that emerged in previous Election Tribunals, particularly the Presidential Election Tribunal. These issues may not be relevant to the current electoral environment, but some will be pertinent for the 2027 general election. We must discuss these matters and understand how they impacted previous election petition proceedings, and their role in Nigeria's electoral jurisprudence. This is the right time to have the conversation, not during the heat of elections, or when Election Tribunals are already in session. At that point, political partisan positions harden, and some individuals allow their emotions to dominate their reasoning. We must resolve the question of alternative methods or platforms, for addressing electoral disputes. Alternatively, we must redesign or recalibrate our electoral process, to avoid relying on Election Tribunals as arbiters of electoral disputes.
The Legislative Powers of the Federation Nigerians must decide whether to continue engaging in the redundant argument, about whether the Courts and Tribunals are or should be part of the electoral process. This argument is redundant, because the legislative powers of the Federation are vested in both the National Assembly and the State Houses of Assembly for constitutional amendment. Nigerians can approach the National and State Assemblies to amend the Constitution and the Electoral Act, if issues and challenges arise with the electoral dispute resolution powers of the Courts and Tribunals. The Courts and the Election Tribunals, do not activate themselves. Election Tribunals dissolve if political parties and candidates, do not file election petitions. Election Tribunals assume jurisdiction only when approached, and can decline jurisdiction in certain circumstances.
Election Tribunals
Section 285 of the Constitution establishes Election Tribunals to resolve election disputes, and sets timelines for handling election petitions. It provides for the creation of one or more Election Tribunals in each State of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory, which shall, to the exclusion of any Court or Tribunal, have original jurisdiction to hear and decide election petitions regarding whether any individual has been validly elected as a member of the National Assembly or a member of the State Assembly. It also requires the establishment in each State of the Federation of an Election Tribunal, referred to as the Governorship Election Tribunal, which shall, to the exclusion of any court or tribunal, have original jurisdiction to hear and adjudicate petitions concerning whether any person has been validly elected to the office of Governor or Deputy Governor of a State. Such election petitions must be filed, within 21 days of the declaration of the election results. An Election Tribunal is obligated to deliver its judgement in
2027 and the Shape of Electoral Dispute Resolution
This article by Festus Okoye discusses the process of taking election petitions to the Tribunals and Courts, and laments about the prevalence of the narrative that Courts and election Tribunals displace voters’ decisions, due to a poor understanding of the adjudicatory role of Courts and Tribunals in electoral dispute resolution, which is ‘sui generis’. He explains the responsibilities of the different actors within the election petition stage, and emphasises that this is the time for public education and sensitisation on elections to start, well in advance to get a good understanding, not when the 2027 election is upon us even unlawful, whether Government is simply trying to gag VdM and clamp down on freedom of expression
writing within 180 days from the date of filing the petition; any appeal from a decision of an Election Tribunal or the Court of Appeal in an election matter, must be heard and resolved within 60 days from the date of the tribunal's or Court of Appeal's judgement.
Section 239 of the Constitution grants the Court of Appeal, to the exclusion of any other court in Nigeria, original jurisdiction to hear and determine any question regarding whether any person has been validly elected to the office of President or Vice-President under the Constitution, or whether the term of office of the President or Vice-President has ceased, or whether the office of the President or Vice-President has become vacant.
Section 285 of the Constitution creates Election Tribunals and grants them original jurisdiction over National and State Assembly elections. They are to hear and determine petitions to the exclusion of any Court or Tribunal, regarding whether any person has been validly elected as a member of the National Assembly or the House of Assembly of a State. The same applies to the office of the Governor or Deputy
“The persistence of the narrative that Courts and Election Tribunals displace voters’ decisions, shows a poor understanding of the adjudicatory role of Courts and Tribunals in electoral dispute resolution, or that the Courts and Tribunals are not doing the right thing….The Nigerian Bar Association, civil society groups and organisations, and political parties, must brace up and educate Nigerians on the role of the Courts and Tribunals in election petitions….This education and sensitisation, must be done before the 2027 general election….”
Governor of a State.
Powers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
The Courts and Election Tribunals exercise the powers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria; that is why they are sometimes referred to as “the last hope of the common man” and “the guardian of the Constitution”. No part of the constitutional framework, grants the Courts and Election Tribunals the authority to override the people's right to choose. The powers of the Election Petitions Court and Election Tribunal in post-election litigation, are clearly defined and delineated. It is academic to pontificate and rave about the usurpation of the power of the voters, without a concomitant approach to the National Assembly to do the needful. This means approaching the National Assembly, and urging them to strip the Courts and Election Tribunals of their jurisdiction to hear and determine election petitions. In so doing, we must be sure that we have alternatives. This is because when people are aggrieved and have no avenue to vent their grievances, they may resort to self-help. It is better to accept the Courts and the Tribunals as part of the democratic heritage and propose ways and means of making them better, and getting them to remain within the bounds of their constitutional and electoral remit.
Application of Legal Principles
In 1984, the late Hon. Justice Sowemimo, in the case of Nwobodo v Onoh 1984 SCNLR 1, addressed the question of the role of the Courts in election petitions. He stated that: “What the courts are called upon to deal with, is the application of legal principles to the different election petitions filed before them. It is only academic to conclude that such decisions displace voters’ decisions”. The persistence of the narrative that Courts and Election Tribunals displace voters’ decisions, shows a poor understanding of the adjudicatory role of Courts and Tribunals in electoral dispute
resolution, or that the Courts and Tribunals are not doing the right thing. Unfortunately, the Tribunals are supposed to be apolitical and aloof, and cannot canvass or present a case for the Petitioner or the Respondent. As Hon. Justice Tobi pointed out in the case of Abubakar v Yar’Adua (2008) 19 NWLR PART 1120, 175-177, a court of law is not a political soup box where parties freely trade insults. On the contrary, a court of law is a serious legal institution, where parties place their case in the corridors of the law for adjudication and decision.
Some persons with poor knowledge of the workings of Election Tribunals run commentaries on a case in court, and use their knowledge of ordinary civil matters to denigrate the Judiciary on constitutional, electoral, and procedural matters. The reality is that civil matters and election petitions, are two different matters. The Supreme Court of Nigeria has consistently pointed out that “An election petition is sui generis. That is to say, in a class by itself. It is different from common law civil action” (Abubakar v Yar’ Adua (Supra). The Supreme Court emphasised this point in the case of Buhari v INEC (2008)19 NWLR Part 1120, where it asserted that the whole concept of election petitions being sui generis is to project the peculiarity of the petition in terms of the reliefs sought, the time element and the peculiar procedure adopted for the hearing of the petition and all that. The Practice Directions, 2007, is a classic example of referring to election petitions as sui generis. No section of the Act or paragraph of the Schedule to the Act, can qualify for the term sui generis. It is the total jurisprudence of election that is sui generis, not a section of the Act or schedule to the Act. Unfortunately, some of our people, without sufficient knowledge of the workings of the Courts and Election Tribunals, buy into the argument that election Tribunals have replaced the voters and are conferring mandates on those who won and those who did not win elections, and challenge the independence and impartiality of the Judiciary
Festus Okoye
VDM: Cyberstalking or Gagging?
Out of nowhere, a young and energetic social activist, Martins Vincent otse (aka Very Dark Black Man/ VeryDarkMan/VDM), emerged and created some storm in the Nigerian social media space. Initially, he was largely unknown. Subsequently, as he started to gain popularity, some called him a rabble-rouser, others, an attention-seeker. But, whatever else he may be, today he is what is called an “Influencer”, finding support from social media with over two million followers on Instagram alone. He appears to have stepped on a good number of toes, and his stature has grown to the discomfort of some highly placed Nigerians. For a while, VdM had been on the radar of the eFCC and dSS. His eventual arrest outside the premises of a branch of GT Bank in abuja, elicited wide national outcry particularly because of the mode of arrest. although he has been granted bail, THISday LaWyeR sought the views of some Lawyers on what constitutes cyberstalking, one of the allegations the eFCC has levelled against VdM, the manner in which he was arrested, which his followers say was unwarranted, even unlawful, whether Government is simply trying to gag VdM and clamp down on freedom of expression
VDM’s Arrest, Gagging Dissenting Voices
Kunle Edun, SAN
Section 39(1)of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended, guarantees every Nigerian the right to freedom of expression and hold opinions, and to express same in any form he desires. Expression of opinion on the social media space, is an ac-
ceptable medium. Democracy itself requires certain fundamental rights of the citizens to be guaranteed, to avoid a situation where authoritarian-
“….the constant resort to the Cyber Crime Act to prosecute Nigerians who criticise actions and inactions of Governments, institutions and personalities, is becoming consistently disturbing. It is another way of the Government bringing from the backdoor, the law of sedition which has long been removed from our statute books, and condemned by several judicial authorities as a colonial relic”
ism will be the order of the day. Every responsible Government and institution, must see it as a necessity, Citizens' call for accountability.
The recent arrest of Martins Otse aka VeryDarkMan (VDM) allegedly on the basis of statements he was said to have made on the social media, and which EFCC which allegedly claimed amounts to cyberstalking is very concerning. While I will not comment on the merit of whatever allegations the EFCC may have against him, it must be stated that the constant resort to the Cybercrimes Act to prosecute Nigerians who criticise actions and inactions of Governments, institutions and personalities, is becoming consistently disturbing. It is another way of the Government bringing from the backdoor, the law of sedition which has long been removed from our statute
books, and condemned by several judicial authorities as a colonial relic.
The detention of VDM for several days, obviously is unconstitutional, except the EFCC obtained a remand order from the appropriate court. This also brings to the fore, the issue of the seeming abuse of the issuance of remand orders by the courts. Since the allegation has nothing to do with the commission of any capital offence, and that VDM has not been known to be a flight risk, I make bold to say that, if he was detained on the basis of a remand order, then it is an abuse of the exercise of judicial power by the court that issued it. The grant of administrative bail on the very day of arrest would have sufficed, but we all know that security agencies in Nigeria arrest in almost all the cases they handle before they investigate, which is unconstitutional, because a person cannot be arrested and
Martins Vincent otse (aka Very Dark Black Man/VeryDarkMan/VDM)
vDM: cyberstalking or Gagging?
Constitutional Lawyer, Abuja
VDM’s Arrest: No Due Process, No Accountability
Mandy Demechi-Asagba
The recent controversy surrounding the arrest and detention of VeryDarkMan (VDM) by the EFCC and alleged GTBank's involvement, raises serious concerns about due process and accountability. The allegations against VDM include cyberstalking, which typically involves using digital platforms to harass or intimidate individuals. However, the specifics of the allegations against VDM are unclear.
The alleged cyberstalking and unlawful detention, seem to highlight potential violations of VDM's fundamental rights.
Key Issues
1. Arbitrary arrest and detention without due process in violation of VDM’s Fundamental Human Rights under Section 35 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as Amended);
2. A breach of VDM’s Fundamental Right to human dignity - see Section 34 (1)(a);
3. Breach of confidentiality by GTBank, if the bank had anything to do with his arrest - see Section 4 of the Banks and other Financial Institutions (BOFI) Act;
4. Abuse of power by EFCC - see section 9 of the EFCC Act.
Possible Legal Remedies For VDM
1. Compensation for false imprisonment - see Section 35 (6) of the 1999 Constitution (as Amended);
2.Public apology - see Section 35(6) 1999 Constitution;
3.Institutional accountability for EFCC and GTBank.
New Development
GTBank's recent video footage claims they had no involvement in VDM's arrest, stating he wasn't arrested on their premises. This contradicts earlier allegations of GTBank's complicity.
This Twist Raises Questions: 1. Was GTBank's denial genuine, or an attempt to distance themselves?
2. Did EFCC act independently in arresting VDM?
3. What role, if any, did GTBank play in the events leading to VDM's arrest?
Further investigation or clarification might be needed to establish the facts. We therefore, implore the relevant authorities to carry out proper investigations on this matter.
This case highlights the paramount importance of adhering to due process, and safeguarding individual rights within a democratic society. The integrity of our legal system relies on the unwavering commitment to uphold the rule of law, lest we regress to Thomas Hobbes’ state of nature where might makes right. Compromising due process for any reason, undermines the very foundations of our democracy, and it is imperative that we prioritise the protection of individual rights and the rule of law.
Mandy Demechi-Asagba, Global President, African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA); President, Legal Pool for Justice and Equity Initiative (LPJEI)
VDM, EFCC, DSS and GT-
“This case highlights the paramount importance of adhering to due process, and safeguarding individual rights within a democratic society. The integrity of our legal system relies on the unwavering commitment to uphold the rule of law, lest we regress to Thomas Hobbes’ state of nature where might makes right”
Bank Brouhaha
Dr Tonye Clinton Jaja
What constitutes cyberstalking as alleged?
According to Section 24(1)(a) and (b) of the Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2024 cyberstalking is defined as follows: (a) knows to be pornographic (b) he knows to be false, for the purpose of causing a breakdown of law and order, posing a threat to life, or causing such messages to be sent".
Way and manner VDM was arrested and detained for days
The relevant Nigerian laws stipulates that detention shall not exceed 48 hours, except with an order of a court of law for any period beyond 48 hours.
Were his fundamental rights not violated?
Yes, his Lawyers can sue for violation of VDM's fundamental rights, because he was held for five days.
Dr Tonye Clinton Jaja, Abuja
VDM’s Gestapo Style Arrest Violates His Human Dignity
Jay Jones
The name "Very Dark Man" (VDM) is one name that quickly resonates in the minds
of many Nigerians, as symbol of the fight against injustice and more of a voice that blatantly speaks truth to power without fear or favour.
However the reprehensible gestapo-like terroristic method deployed in effecting his arrest outside the premises of GT Bank negated all known acceptable tenets for respect for human dignity, and was more like a scene in James Bond's 007 movie. This unpopular methodology has been attributed to the present administration's tendencies towards dictatorship, and more especially it's desperate attempt to gag all dissenting voices against the government of the day, using trumped-up charges of Cyberstalking crafted from the omnibus Cybercrime Act of 2015.
Section 24 of the Cybercrime Act, 2015 attributes Cyberstalking as any act which denotes the utilisation of the Internet or Social media platforms to issue out offensive or obscene or menacing messages which you intentionally send out, knowing fully well that the content of such message is false, with the intent to cause annoyance, hatred and ill-will. Therefore, it would not amount to Cyberstalking, where the sender believes that the information is correct and does not intend to cause annoyance or ill-feeling, but with a conviction to expose certain ills in the society, which is what VDM stands for.
Major Jay Jones, Benin City
Martins vincent otse (aka very Dark Black Man/veryDarkMan/vDM)
Guardians of Gulf of Guinea: Nigerian Navy, 20 Nations Flag off Exercise OBANGAME EXPRESS to Combat Arms, Narcotics Smuggling
With piracy on the decline but maritime crime evolving into more dangerous forms, navies from across Africa, Europe, and the Americas recently converged on Lagos for the 14th edition of Exercise OBANGAME EXPRESS. This year, the focus was squarely on combating the trafficking of small arms, light weapons, and narcotics—emerging threats that continue to undermine regional security. Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that for the Nigerian Navy, the exercise represents a strategic effort to strengthen its maritime interdiction capabilities and uphold its role as a key guardian of the Gulf of Guinea
With piracy on the decline, especially on Nigerian waters, but new threats proliferating across the Gulf of Guinea, the Nigerian Navy (NN) has once again stepped up to the challenge—this time, sharpening its focus on combating the surging menace of small arms trafficking and narcotics smuggling.
Through the multinational maritime security exercise, OBANGAME EXPRESS 2025, the NN and other partner navies from Africa, Europe, and the Americas are synergising to tackle the mutating threats that continue to destabilise the region’s waters.
For the NN, this annual gathering of maritime forces—now in its 14th iteration—is more than a drill. It is a strategic declaration of intent. The 2025 edition has placed Anti-Small Arms Smuggling and Narcotics Operations at the core of its mission, reflecting the evolving security architecture of the Gulf of Guinea.
According to acting Fleet Commander and Officer in Tactical Command (OTC), Captain L.D. Deyin, the purpose of the exercise was not merely a training event but a strategic imperative to tackle mutating threats such as small arms smuggling, human trafficking, and drug trafficking, as well as other related maritime crimes in the Gulf of Guinea.
A Strategic Imperative Amid a Shifting Threat Landscape
Exercise OBANGAME EXPRESS 2025, which was flagged off on May 9 and to end on May 13 with participating units operating 20 to 30 nautical miles South-west of Lagos, was segmented into three sectors with each sector featuring two Nigerian ships and one foreign ship conducting maritime interdiction operations—testing not only tactics, techniques and procedures, but also joint resolve against transnational crimes.
Small arms proliferation is among the most pressing of these. According to a 2022 report by SBM Intelligence, there are an estimated 6.1 million illicit small arms in circulation in Nigeria, compared to just 586,600 in the hands of authorised security forces. This dangerous imbalance has fuelled banditry, insurgency, and cross-border criminality, with weapons often trafficked by sea before being smuggled inland. The impact is dire, contributing to the deaths of over 10,000 Nigerians annually through gun-related violence.
Also, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) also reported that West Africa has become a growing corridor for cocaine trafficking, with Nigeria emerging as a major transit point. Seizures by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) hit over 600 tonnes of illicit drugs in 2023 alone, further underscoring the urgency of the Navy’s involvement in counter-narcotics maritime operations.
A Renewed Vision for Maritime Regional Stability
Undoubtedly, the Nigerian Navy has a proud history of leading regional maritime
security efforts, and this year was not different as the exercise evolved into a platform not just for drills, but for policy alignment, intelligence synchronisation, and interagency cohesion.
Corroborating at the flag off, the Chief of Navy Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Ikechukwu Ogalla, said that was why the 2025 EXERCISE OBANGAME EXPRESS will feature Anti-Small Arms Smuggling and Narcotics Operations, which are critical components in their ongoing effort to secure the maritime domain.
by
said: “Over the years, this exercise has played a pivotal role in enhancing Nigeria’s maritime security architecture and regional stability. It has grown significantly since its inception in 2010, now including credible navies from Africa, Europe, and the Americas.”
He further noted that Nigeria is deploying six warships, two helicopters, and maritime domain awareness capability assets, including the Special Boat Services
(SBS) as these high-value assets are tasked with securing Nigeria’s blue economy—a strategic initiative to harness the nation’s maritime resources for sustainable growth.
He further acknowledged Nigeria’s recent milestone in being delisted by the International Maritime Bureau from the global piracy-prone nations list in March 2022, citing this as a testament to Nigeria’s strengthened naval strategy and international partnerships.
Maritime Collaboration for Regional Security
Sponsored by the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), OBANGAME EXPRESS aims to deepen regional cooperation, maritime domain awareness, and information-sharing practices among the Gulf of Guinea nations, as it reflects a shared ambition to develop African-led responses to transnational threats while promoting global maritime stability. Each year, the exercise is also an opportunity to rehearse real-world scenarios—from small arms interceptions to illegal vessel tracking—under coordinated command structures as Maritime Operations Centres (MOCs) across the region are challenged to identify and respond to threats, while individual navies are tested on their capacity to police their Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) and prosecute illegal actors.
In Lagos, the flag-off ceremony was held aboard Nigerian Navy Ship KADA with Captain Andrew Zidon as Commanding Officer of the vessel. According to the OTC, the exercise area had been carefully mapped to simulate high-risk maritime corridors, with operational tasks including narcotics interdiction, tactical boarding, ship-handling drills, and joint manoeuvres with focus on maritime domain awareness, including Law of the Sea practices.
Also speaking, Lieutenant Benjamin Ralen, U.S. Maritime Program Officer for Nigeria, while expressing enthusiasm for the growing strength of multilateral security cooperation, said with over 25 countries participating this year, OBANGAME EXPRESS has become a pillar of trust-building and joint capability development in maritime security.
Charting a Safer Maritime Future
For Exercise OBANGAME EXPRESS 2025, its relevance cannot be overstated. With millions of illicit small arms in circulation and transnational drug cartels leveraging West African waters, coordinated maritime action is no longer optional—it is critical.
Thus, through its continued leadership and commitment, the Nigerian Navy seek not only to protects its shores but in synergy with regional partners, reinforces regional stability and by embedding anti-smuggling and counter-narcotics efforts into its tactical operations, Nigeria is affirming its role as a stabilising force in the Gulf of Guinea—and by extension, the Atlantic Ocean.
In the words of its commanding officers and international partners, this is not just a drill. It is a joint stand against criminality at sea—and a signal to all threat actors that the Gulf is no longer a safe haven for illicit trade.
Represented
Rear Admiral Michael Oamen, Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, the CNS
Arrow Formation for the flag off of Exercise OBANGAME EXPRESS 2025
Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Michael Oamen, representing the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, at the flag off. With him are Admiral Superintendent Naval Ordnance Report, Rear Admiral Livingstone Izu (third left); Flag Officer Commanding, Naval Doctrine Command, Rear Admiral SU Gombe (second left); Admiral Superintendent, Naval Dockyard Limited, Rear Admiral Ibrahim Shehu (sixth right); GOC 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa (far left); AIG Musa Yusuf Garba, Maritime Command, Force Headquarters Annex, Lagos (fifth right); Lt. Benjamin Ralen, United States of America Maritime Program Officer for Nigeria; and others
The FOC West, Rear Admiral Oamen being received by Commanding Officer, NNS KADA, Captain Andrew Zidon, onboard the vessel for the flag off
LCCI: Success of Nigeria First Policy Depends on Bold, Well-coordinated Execution Strategy
Dike Onwuamaeze
The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has declared that the success of Nigeria First procurement policy that was announced last week by President Bola Tinubu “depends on a bold, coherent, and well-coordinated execution strategy that addresses deep-rooted structural barriers” in the Nigerian economy.
The LCCI, therefore, advised that the policy be grounded in economic realism, legal consistency, and institutional integrity.
According to the Director General of LCCI, Dr. Chinyere
Almona, the LCCI is of the view that domestic industries must be supported to become competitive through targeted infrastructure investments, access to affordable credit, and an enhanced ease of doing business environment.
Almona said that incentives such as tax reliefs, rsearch and poduction grants, and backward integration support should be prioritised for sectors with strong local potential, especially agro-processing, manufacturing, and ICT.
She said: “To ramp up local production, current challenges facing the manufacturing sector, like high cost of generating power,
Seplat Supplies 30% of Total Gas-to-Power
Generation in Nigeria
Stories by Emmanuel Addeh in abuja
Seplat Energy Plc, a leading Nigerian independent energy company, has revealed that it currently supplies 30 per cent of the total gas needed to ensure electricity is provided by the Generation Companies (Gencos), saying that it remains committed to leading Nigeria’s indigenous gas revolution.
The Managing Director, Seplat Energy Producing Nigeria Unlimited (SEPNU), Mr. Oladotun Isiaka, gave this assurance at the just concluded Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston, United States, a statement by the firm said.
Isiaka spoke on a panel session titled: ‘‘Harnessing Nigeria’s Gas Potential for Domestic Utilisation and Global Export Market’’, organised by the Petroleum
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Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN).
Isiaka also called for greater collaboration across the gas value chain to turn Nigeria’s gas potential into tangible prosperity, adding that Nigeria holds a strategic opportunity to leverage its gas reserves for domestic development and global competitiveness.
Stressing that Seplat Energy is leading as a Nigerian independent, with strong operational and investment commitments in the domestic gas value chain, he noted that indigenous leadership, backed by supportive policies and financing models, remains critical to Nigeria’s gas sector growth.
“On Seplat Energy’s contributions to Nigeria’s gas development, Isiaka said the company is a leading supplier of processed gas to Nigeria’s domestic marketoperating the Oben and Sapele Gas Processing Plant with combined capacity exceeding 300 MMscfd, supplying approximately 30 per cent of gas-fired power generation in-country,” the statement noted.
It pointed out that Seplat Energy is also developing the ANOH Gas Processing Plant - a 300 MMscfd facility expected to come online in 2025 under a joint venture owned equally by Seplat Energy and the Nigerian Gas Infrastructure Company (NGIC), a wholly owned subsidiary of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC).
Also, Isiaka said the SEPNU offshore gas has huge potential to develop for both domestic and export markets, with significant reserves close to infrastructure.
These, he said are aside from the company’s focus on promoting clean energy access, its investment in gas development supports Nigeria’s ‘Decade of Gas’ strategy with investments in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) for transport; Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) for clean cooking; and electrification pilots in underserved communities.
rising cost of logistics, high cost of credit, and a rather harsh regulatory environment, must all be resolved.”
She also said that on the consumption side, the government must lead by example by strictly enforcing local content rules in procurement at all levels.
“Procurement processes must be transparent, merit-based, and inclusive of SMEs to avoid elite capture and ensure fair
competition across the board. Policies should be backed by enforceable legislation and harmonised across ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) to avoid contradictions and regulatory loopholes. Unpredictable policy reversals and bureaucratic bottlenecks discourage investment and must be addressed decisively,” she said.
The LCCI said that strategic protection must be
accompanied by initiatives that promote quality assurance and market expansion.
“The promotion of local content should not result in monopolies or the proliferation of substandard products. Quality control mechanisms and consumer rights must be safeguarded at all times. The Nigeria First Policy needs to be complemented by large-scale investments in vocational training and digital
skills to align with evolving market needs. Partnerships with academic institutions and the private sector are essential to bridge skill gaps and drive innovation within the local talent economy,” it said. It also added that the Nigeria First Policy should align with regional and continental trade agreements, especially the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
NEITI Seeks Subnational Partnerships on Energy Transition
The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) has sought the cooperation of subnational governments in Nigeria as part of efforts to review its national strategy on energy transition, strengthen institutional reforms and partner on natural resource governance as well as domestic revenue mobilisation.
The organisation made this known during a weeklong Strategic Retreat and Board Meeting in Umuahia, Abia state, according to a statement by the Assistant Director, Communication & Stakeholders Management, Chris Ochonu.
The retreat, supported by
the Ford Foundation, brought together members of the NEITI National Stakeholders’ Working Group (NSWG) and senior management team to deliberate on the ongoing NEITI research study on the impact of energy transition on Nigeria’s economy.
Declaring the retreat open, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and Chairman of the NEITI Board, Senator George Akume, announced that the federal government has adopted the national energy transition policy and is committed to pursuing a just, inclusive, and beneficial energy transition.
He emphasised the importance of a measured, evidence-based approach that balances the urgent global shift with national development priorities—particularly revenue protection, job retention, energy security, gender equity, and citizen-focused development.
“President Bola Tinubu’s administration has embraced the national energy transition policy as a strategic blueprint for a cleaner, greener, and more resilient energy future. Our goal is to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060 without leaving anyone behind—especially our rural and vulnerable communities,”
the SGF stated.
Welcoming the delegation, Governor of Abia state, Dr. Alex Otti, described the retreat as a significant vote of confidence in Abia’s emerging role as a hub for reform-oriented governance and development partnerships. He expressed appreciation to NEITI for choosing Umuahia to host this high-level national engagement.
Executive Secretary of NEITI, Dr. Ogbonnaya Orji, reaffirmed that the retreat is a serious working session, convened at a time of major global shifts, explaining the world is moving rapidly from fossil fuels to low-carbon alternatives.
Citi Cuts Short Term Brent Crude Price to $55
Citi Research has lowered its three-month price forecast for Brent crude to $55 per barrel from a previous estimate of $60 per barrel, as US-Iran nuclear deal talks resume, raising prospects for an eventual agreement.
An agreement between the US and Iran, which could ease sanctions, may drive Brent
prices down towards $50 per barrel, Citi said, on increased supply in the market.
But no deal, and potentially escalatory actions like curbing Iran’s nuclear programme, could push prices back to $70 per barrel or more, the bank said.
“We see probabilities at an indicative 60 per cent:40
per cent skew toward an eventual deal,” Citi said in the note, seen by Reuters. US Vice President JD Vance last Wednesday described the talks with Iran as “so far, so good.”
Analysts at Citi acknowledged downside risks that could push prices to $55 occasionally throughout the middle of the year.
The bank maintained its long-term forecast of $60 a barrel Brent in 2025 despite the recent downward trend in oil prices.
“The recent sell-off has come with tariffs and OPEC+ adding supply back to market at an expedited rate, which could yet pause/reverse,” Citi said.
Engineers to Replace Ageing Workforce
The Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has unveiled what he described as a 10-year rescue plan to revive the manpower shortage in the power sector, mandating the training of 1,200 electrical engineers within the next decade.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the management retreat of the Ministry of Power, themed: ‘Development of Ministerial Performance Management System (MPMS) for 2025’, in Abuja, the minister noted that this aligns with the “Nigeria First” policy.
Adelabu warned that the President Bola Tinubu’s administration would not tolerate excuses in delivering
stable power to households and businesses, calling the sector’s revival “non-negotiable” for economic survival.
The Minister’s declaration followed Monday’s Federal Executive Council (FEC) approval of a roadmap to reverse decades of infrastructure decay in the country, despite the country’s vast energy resources.
“We cannot keep outsourcing our future. In 10 years, we must replace the lost generation of engineers. Mr. President yesterday touched on the importance of the local content and an Executive Order is being drafted and will soon be released.
“It emphasises the need to look inward in everything we
do, particularly in contract awards. We must key into this in our local capacity building, in our resources and personnel. We must be intentional in our local capacity development.
“There is a dearth of good hands in the sector. Steps must be taken to ensure that this trend is reversed. Within the next 10 years, we must have at least 1,200 electrical engineers trained in the sector, to replace the lost professionals,” he stated.
Adelabu acknowledged ‘recent gains’ in grid stability since January 2025 but demanded faster progress, revealing that all ministry performance will now face quarterly scrutiny by the
presidential monitoring unit.
“I am proud of the achievements that we have recorded in the past one and half years. Achievements in generation, in transmission and in distribution. Since January this year to date, there has been stability, particularly in the grid,” he stressed.
The retreat also focused on finalising the ministry’s 2025 work plan, with the minister directing ministry officials to abandon “theories” for actionable fixes and calling for “brutal honesty” about systemic failures. He also tasked them to use the opportunity of the retreat to speak frankly about issues concerning the sector.
Nigeria First Policy and Imperative of Import Substitution Industrialisation Policy
Dan Ashiekaa
The Nigeria First Policy, recently announced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aims to strengthen Nigeria’s domestic economy by prioritizing local industries and reducing reliance on foreign imports. This policy framework is designed to foster industrialisation and import substitution, ensuring that government procurement and business activities benefit Nigerian businesses and workers.
Key Aspects of the Nigeria First Policy include:
1. Ban on Foreign Goods: Federal Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) are now required to prioritize Nigerian-made goods and services when spending public funds
2. Procurement Rules: The Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) will revise and enforce procurement rules that favor local content.
3. Technology Transfer & Capacity Development: Where foreign contracts are unavoidable, they must include provisions for technology transfer and local production.
4. Executive Order for Legal Backing: The Attorney General has been directed to draft an Executive Order to give full legal effect to the policy. To embed a sustainable Nigeria First Policy, the government must introduce bespoke monetary and fiscal incentives that encourage local industries to produce goods and services that replace imports. Some key recommendations include: Monetary Policy Incentives.
Preferential Credit Facilities: The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) should provide low-interest loans to local manufacturers to boost production capacity. For example, Brazil’s National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES) offers subsidized loans to support local industries (BNDES, 2023). Foreign Exchange Allocation: Prioritize forex access for industries involved in import substitution to reduce dependence on imported raw materials. South Korea’s approach to stabilising the won during its industrialisation phase can serve as a model (Korea Development Bank, 2023).
Exchange Rate Stability Measures: Implement policies that stabilize the Naira to reduce volatility and encourage local production. Exchange Rate Stability Measures To stabilize the Naira and reduce volatility, Nigeria could consider pegging its currency to the US Dollar, a strategy successfully employed by several economies including The State of Qatar, The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, The Sultanate of Oman, and The United Arab Emirates (UAE). These countries have managed to achieve commendable economic stability through such measures.
There are multiple substantiated reasons for considering a currency peg including:
• Economic Stability: Pegging the Naira to the Dollar can provide a stable anchor for the currency, reducing exchange rate fluctuations. This stability can foster a conducive environment for investment and growth. For instance, Qatar’s economy has benefited significantly from such stability (IMF, 2023).
• Inflation Control: A currency peg can help control inflation by preventing the Naira from depreciating rapidly. This measure can ensure that import costs remain predictable, thereby controlling cost-push inflation. Saudi Arabia has successfully maintained low inflation post-currency peg (World Bank, 2023).
• Investor Confidence: By pegging the Naira to the Dollar, Nigeria can enhance investor confidence, knowing that their investments are protected from currency risks. The UAE has seen increased foreign direct investment due to its pegged currency (OECD, 2023).
• Trade Balance Improvement: Pegging the Naira to the Dollar can help improve Nigeria’s trade balance by making exports more competitive and imports more predictable in terms of costs. Oman has leveraged its pegged currency to boost export revenues (WTO, 2023). For the currency peg to work effectively, Nigeria’s Central Bank will need to:
• Maintain adequate foreign exchange reserves to defend the peg (IMF, 2023).
• Ensure fiscal and monetary policies support the fixed exchange rate system (World Bank, 2023).
• Monitor and respond to global economic changes that could impact the pegged currency (OECD, 2023). On the inflation side of things, the Central Bank must clearly identify which type it is combating, whether it is Cost-Push or Demand-Pull Inflation. Initiatives should include: Cost-Push Inflation: Introduce measures to control cost-push inflation by reducing production costs which will include reducing rather than increasing interest rates. Brazil’s investment in infrastructure significantly lowered production costs and catalyzed industrial growth (World Bank, 2023). Demand-Pull Inflation: Implement policies to curb demand-pull inflation by managing excessive consumer demand. South Korea’s strategic investment in technology and innovation helped balance demand and supply by increasing productivity and efficiency, leading to a greater output of goods and services that met the rising demand. This approach ensured that the supply side could keep up with the increasing consumer demand, thereby stabilizing prices and preventing excessive inflation (OECD, 2023).
Interest Rate Stability: Establish stable, predictable, and favorable interest rates to foster a conducive business environment. Brazil’s Central Bank maintained favorable interest rates to boost manufacturing (Brazil Central Bank, 2023).
Reduction in Monetary Policy Rate: Implement a general reduction in the Monetary Policy Rate by the Central Bank of Nigeria to reduce lending rates by Deposit Money Banks, thereby spurring light manufacturing. South Korea’s Bank of Korea successfully reduced its policy rate to support industrial growth (Bank of Korea, 2023).
The fiscal authorities, such as the Federal Ministry of Finance, should prioritize the enhancement of existing fiscal policy incentives, while also considering the introduction of new measures to stimulate economic growth. Some of these include:
Tax Breaks & Subsidies: Offer tax incentives to industries producing essential goods locally. For example, Brazil provided tax exemptions and subsidies to its automotive industry, significantly boosting local production and reducing the need for imports (World Bank, 2023).
Import Tariffs & Restrictions: Increase tariffs on non-essential imports to encourage domestic production. South Korea successfully implemented high tariffs on imported consumer goods while offering protection to its infant industries, fostering the growth of local manufacturers (OECD, 2023).
Infrastructure Development: Invest in power, transportation, and logistics to reduce production costs for local industries. Brazil’s significant investment in infrastructure, particularly in transportation and logistics, through publicprivate partnerships, has greatly enhanced its industrial base (BNDES, 2023).
The major catalysts for successful import substitution include: Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): Encourage collaboration between the government and the private sector to drive industrial growth. In South Korea, PPPs have played a crucial role in developing major infrastructure projects, including roads, ports, and industrial parks, which have supported industrialization (Korea Development Bank, 2023). Research & Development (R&D): Invest in innovation to improve the quality of locally produced goods. Brazil’s investment in R&D, particularly in the agricultural sector, has led to the development of new technologies and improved productivity, reducing the reliance on imports (World Bank, 2023).
Consumer Awareness & Market Development: Promote Nigerian-made products through campaigns and incentives. South Korea’s campaigns to promote locally made products have successfully fostered a sense of national pride and increased demand for domestic goods (OECD, 2023).
In conclusion, the Nigeria First Policy is a bold step toward economic self-sufficiency. By implementing targeted monetary and fiscal incentives, Nigeria can reduce its reliance on imports, save foreign exchange, and strengthen the Naira. However, successful implementation requires strong enforcement mechanisms, stakeholder collaboration, and continuous policy refinement.
• Dan Ashiekaa is an International Consultant, Policy Analyst, Oil & Gas Professional and President/CEO, Bel Air Capital Int’l Limited
‘NIMASA is Committed to Reform, Shipping Development, Revenue Optimisation’
The attention of the Management of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has described as false a publication in a section of the media alleging that the agency has embarked on a concession of its operations.
In a statement, it said, “The Management wishes to categorically state that there is no iota of truth in these claims. This is the hand-work of some external and internal elements who have conspired to benefit from the current porous system. To set the records straight, following a comprehensive internal review of operational systems, the current leadership of NIMASA resolved to embrace technology as a means of enhancing the Agency’s capacity to deliver on its regulatory mandate more effectively and to bring into the coffers of government additional revenue ensure funds due government does not end up in private hands.
“A pivotal innovation in this regard is the Maritime Enhanced Monitoring System (MEMS). This system brings digital traceability to the core of Nigeria’s maritime operations. MEMS provides real-time visibility into vessel movements, operational logs, and regulatory interactions. Through automated alerts, smart invoicing, and centralized data integration, NIMASA can now detect, document, and respond to maritime activities with greater precision and efficiency—eliminating unnecessary bottlenecks while strengthening compliance.
“The additional recipients targeted are, waste reception services, a routine operation for both domestic and international vessels have traditionally lacked proper tracking, resulting in unmonitored activities and significant revenue losses. With MEMS, each waste offload can be logged, time-stamped, and automatically billed, converting previously missed opportunities
into a consistent revenue stream while ensuring environmental standards are met.”
It added, “Marine pollution control, another critical area of NIMASA’s mandate, has similarly been constrained by limited digital tools. In the absence of satellite tracking and automated reporting, pollution events often go unnoticed or are reported too late to mitigate their impact. With the integration of modern surveillance systems, digital logbooks, and real-time alerts, NIMASA can now respond swiftly to such incidents, recover environmental damages, and hold polluters accountable—both legally and financially.
“It is important to emphasise that past revenue shortfalls experienced by the Agency mainly stemmed from outdated manual processes, fragmented data systems, and insufficient digital enforcement mechanisms which allowed some external elements to capitalize on the loopholes for personal gains.
Glo Foundation Celebrates Lagos Cleaners with Gifts, Empowerment Schemes
Sunday Ehigiator
Glo Foundation, the social responsibility arm of Globacom, in partnership with the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), hosted a special day to celebrate staff who keep the state clean.
The event, held at the Ijora Olopa office of the agency, had hundreds of sweepers drawn from all the local governments and LCDAs across the state. The sweepers, usually the ones that many do not reckon with despite their onerous duties, became the centre of attraction at the event as they danced and participated in various fun activities, including games and raffle draws, courtesy of Globacom.
Head of Glo Foundation, Jumobi Mofe-Damijo, while speaking at the
event, disclosed that the Foundation decided to honour the cleaners with a rest event to express gratitude to them for the important work they do daily, even at great danger to their lives on roads across the state.
She noted that the effort of Glo Foundation in this regard would also extend to other states across the country to renew a sense of belonging among those who are doing critical jobs across the country.
“We recognise the important and thankless jobs that you do all over the state in ensuring that our roads and streets are clean every day. We recognise the hazards you face from drivers who don’t appreciate you and are at times impatient while you are by the roadside sweeping.
“It is the reason why we are here today to let you know how much we value you and your huge contributions to keeping Lagos clean continuously,” she added.
In a brief remarks, the Managing Director of LAWMA, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, was effusive in praise of Globacom for coming up with the idea of creating a day to appreciate the sweepers across the state, adding that the agency is happy about the collaborations in the office which will further help and inspire the sweepers.
He reemphasised the importance of the work of the sweepers in contributing to the health and well-being of the citizenry and called on more corporate bodies to emulate the gesture from Globacom.
Legend Internet Debuts Nigeria’s First Fibre-to-the-Room Service
In a bold move that cements its leadership in digital infrastructure, Legend Internet
PLC has launched FTTR by Legend — Nigeria’s first Fibre-to-the-Room (FTTR) service, redefining the standard for broadband connectivity across homes and businesses.
This groundbreaking innovation was deployed by Legend, with strategic technology support from global telecommunications leader- Huawei.
The result is a seamless digital experience that meets the demands of modern living.
The launch of FTTR follows the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Legend Internet and Huawei Technologies.
“Our collaboration with Huawei reflects our commitment to global standards and local innovation. Unlike traditional broadband that stops at the router, FTTR by Legend brings pure fibre into every room, offering zero lag, full-house coverage, and the performance needed for smart homes, remote work, creators, and tech-forward enterprises.
“Being listed on NGX is just the beginning, With
FTTR by Legend, we are building the infrastructure of the future, today — not just to improve connectivity, but to transform how people live, work, and create,” said Aisha Abdulaziz, CEO of Legend Internet Plc.
The collaboration is aimed at accelerating broadband infrastructure development, enhancing local capacity, and positioning Nigeria as a digital leader in Africa.
Huawei brings decades of R&D in fibre optic and smart home technology to support Legend in deploying this state-of-the-art infrastructure.
400 Beneficiaries Receive N10m Grant in Sokoto
Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto
In a bid to empower women and boost economic growth in his constituency, member representing Kebbe/ Tambuwal Federal Constituency, Abdussamad Dasuki, has disbursed N10 million grants to 400 women.
The initiative, launched on behalf of the lawmaker by his wife, Hajiya Jamila Wada-Dasuki,
aims to provide financial support to women engaged in small-scale enterprises, enabling them to expand their businesses and improve their livelihoods.
The beneficiaries, selected from every ward in the constituency, are involved in various trades and businesses, including tailoring, goat herding, spice production, and agriculture.
Wada-Dasuki emphasised the importance of empowering women, stating that they
are essential partners in development and that their economic liberation has a positive impact on their families and communities.
She urged the beneficiaries to utilise the grants wisely, ensuring that the initiative yields positive results and has a lasting impact on the communities.
She assured that future disbursements would reach more remote areas, including districts such as Romon Sarki and Sanyinna.
Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).
Stock Market Depreciates by N296bn on Profit-taking in MTN 25, Others
Kayode Tokede
The Nigerian euities market commenced the new week on a negative yesterday as the overall capitalisation depreciated by N296 billion amid profit-taking in MTN Nigeria Communications Plc and 25 others.
As MTN Nigeria dropped by 2.07 per cent, the Nigerian Exchange Limited All Share Index (NGX ASI) lost by 471.93 basis
points or 0.43 per cent to close at 108,261.47 basis points, with Month-to-Date and Year-to-Date returns moderated to +2.3per cent and +5.2per cent, respectively. Consequently, market capitalisation declined by N296 billion to close at N68.043 trillion.
However, investor sentiment, as measured by market breadth was positive as 39 stocks advanced, while 26 declined. Meyer, Multiverse Mining & Exploration and
Smart Products Nigeria recorded the highest price gain of 10 per cent each to close at N8.80, N11.00 and 55 kobo respectively, per share.
Beta Glass followed with a gain of 9.99 per cent to close at N176.70, while Haldane McCall rose by 9.88 per cent to close at N4.67, per share.
On the other hand, eTranzact International led the losers’ chart by 10 per cent to close at N5.40,
per share. John Holt followed with a decline of 9.48 per cent to close at N5.25, while Union Dicon Salt declined by 9.47 per cent to close at N7.65, per share.
C&I Leasing depreciated by 8.31 per cent to close at N3.86, while Linkage Assurance declined by 8.06 per cent to close at N1.14, per share. The total volume traded declined by 10.73 per cent to 414.574 billion units, valued at N10.717 billion, and exchanged in
16,664 deals. Transactions in the shares of Tantalizer topped the activity chart with 49.189 million shares valued at N113.210 million.
VFD Group followed with 48.880 million shares worth N782.312 million, while Access Holdings traded 29.432 million shares valued at N629.377 million. Zenith Bank traded 24.317 million shares valued at N1.181 billion, while AIICO Insurance sold 19.109 million shares worth
N30.980 million. Looking forward, analysts at United Capital Plc said “the equities market might be mixed as investors await MPC’s decision on Monday and Tuesday next week.
“Similarly, the elevated interest rate environment would continue to dampen the equities market. Additionally, retail investors’ profit booking activity will result in selloffs and might impede the upward movement of stock prices.
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 09 May-2025, unless otherwise stated.
DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS
Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE
Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com
08033025611 sms only
Akinbade: PDP’ll Overcome Current Crisis and Bounce Back
Former Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party in Osun state and Ex-Secretary to the State Government, alhaji Fatai akinade akinbade, in this interview speaks on a wide ranges of issues including the current crisis rocking the PDP, assessment of two-year old government of President Bola Tinubu, declaration of State of Emergency in Rivers State, among others. Hammed shittu brings excerpts:
In view of the present situation in the PDP in the country now, being the major opposition party ,what is your hope about the party getting back on its feet ahead of the 2027 general elections?
Well, thank you very much. When you look at the party, you know it’s a party that has a very broad base. The only problem we’re having is the leadership. And I want to tell you that even the ruling APC does not have the kind of followership that PDP is having. And I want to assure you that whenever that single man is fished out, you will see major positive changes because people are everywhere in all the wards, in all the polling areas, so it’s difficult for PDP to just go down the drain like that. I believe that with time the leadership will come together and get somebody that will fix the problems.
With some of these issues we have highlighted between now and 2027, are there hopes that PDP in alliance with some other political parties can make it in 2027 general election?
It’s not impossible. It is very possible that the alignment will come. But let me tell you, alignment or no alignment, you know, I’m one of the foundation members of PDP and there are so many times that some of us have left the party for another party.
So, when people decided to leave PDP for whatever reason as it’s being currently experienced, the party will always bounce back, it’s not new it has happened several times before now. The fact of this issue is that the PDP has so many things to make it bounce back. It’s purely a democratic party.
Honestly, unlike other parties, this is a party that was built on the understanding, with the understanding that everybody has equal rights. The slogan says it all - PDP, power to the people. Honestly, power belongs to the people in PDP.
When you look at every other political party in this country, especially the ruling party, APC, I want to tell you that more than 50, 60% of APC leaders today, were groomed from PDP they were at one time or the other in the PDP, and I want to tell you that there are so many of that type. Underground works are ongoing, we are not keeping quiet,we are all waiting for when the whistle will be blown for all of us to come around. You will see that PDP cannot die.
So let’s talk about FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, some of the roles he’s said to be playing within the PDP to ensure that the party is not stabilized. What’s your reaction to it?
Well, it is not his fault. I think the fault is that of the party itself. You see, how can an individual no matter how influential you are, be allowed to hold party to ransom. But because the country allows it. I understand there was a time he rushed to court to get an injunction that he must not be sacked.
He did the same thing to the Acting Chairman. And because PDP is a law abiding party yes, they just allow it to happen, but there is a limit.
The man himself who is being used to destabilize the party is not the only one destabilizing the party but we also have the problem of the head at the moment.
If you are fighting with anybody, the moment you are able to razzle the head you have already captured the person. He was able to razzle the head. I mean what I said, the moment the head is taken back from him you will see what will happen. There are so many people in PDP. There are so many strong talented people everywhere in all the states, you will see with time positive changes that will happen in PDP.
What is your take on the recent declaration of the State of Emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu?
Well, I am a democrat and at the same time
when you look at the Rivers state crisis, you will discover that it falls into one of those things that I used to inculcate in our followers. It has dire consequences when people see politics as everybody’s business. With particular reference to the suspended Governor of Rivers state, Sim Fubara, this is somebody that has never attended a ward meeting or local government meeting, he has never been Councillor, has never been Honorable, has never been Commissioner, etc., and you gave him that opportunity to become the governor. What do you expect? Nobody does above his knowledge.
You see, I’m happy that it happened to Nyesom Wike, it’s like one Yoruba proverb that says “ajá gbe, olè gba”(Birds of a feather flock together). He was trying to run away from his co-politicians .That is the wickedness of our people - our co-politicians. People are so wicked.
Somebody that has been following you over the years, maybe you even started together, you might even met
him on the way, instead of you to give them a trial, then you just corner your Accountant General and said you are safe. How safe are you? He doesn’t know anything about politics. It is good that he was given that opportunity, but he has misused it. But let me say this emphatically, all of them will regret it.
Even Wike himself will regret it. The Fubara himself will regret it but he has nothing to lose because, he didn’t really request for it.
He’s Accountant General, he must have stayed some 25, 30 years in service and be expecting his full salary to be paid till the end of his life. And now you called him to come and paddle the canoe of the party. You see, I used to tell people, look, let us be our brothers’ keeper. Politicians, we are too wicked. If not for wickedness, how can you give such an executive position to somebody who was never a politician.This cloth that I wear, can anybody who does not go through an apprenticeship or whatever just go to the table and cut the clothes, even if you cut it and give it to him, he will not know where to knit it. The carpenter, if he has not been an apprentice somewhere, master the game, and you say you want to remove a house, it’s not possible. And that’s
so, when people decided to leave PDP for whatever reason as it’s being currently experienced, the party will always bounce back, it’s not new it has happened several times before now. The fact of this issue is that the PDP has so many things to make it bounce back. It’s purely a democratic party. Honestly, unlike other parties, this is a party that was built on the understanding, with the understanding that everybody has equal rights. The slogan says it all- PDP, power to the people. Honestly, power belongs to the people in PDP.
the problem we are having in this country. Some people that have never opened a file like this in any office, they will come with their money bag in most states. And that’s why we have not been stabilized. Instead of the leaders to sit down like our leader, late Chief Sunday Michael Afolabi will do. Sit down, check everybody, bring everybody together. Look for somebody that will give you devotees. Somebody that is popular. Somebody that on his own, we are hearing his name.
By hearing his name, you already captured 30% or 35% of the total votes. You just bring somebody who has the money, who has greased your pocket without being tested anywhere, anyhow. You bring them into the game and they mess it up. Many of them have no clue, they don’t know where to start. Majority of our governors, majority of our chief executive, they don’t have their own blueprints. They don’t know even where the wards are, the local government. Ask them to list all the local government off-hand, they don’t know, yet you give them the tickets.
It is not a game that you do without being taught of what you want to do. So that’s the problem. When you talk of Wike, Fubara, I used to be very, very sorry for this country because not only him, there are so many of Fubara and Wike everywhere, and they want to claim that they are master of politics.
What is your general assessment of the PDP led administration in Osun state in the last two years?
Well, to the best of our ability, when I say ability, to the best of the fund accrued to the state, I think the party, the government is doing very, very well. And you can see it. I mean, you know, from the faces of people. You can see it, even the opposition, they are jittery now, they don’t know where to start because the governor is doing very well because he’s listening to the people’s advice.
But can that give Governor Ademola Adeleke the opportunity to be re-elected in the 2026 election?
Well, with one man, one vote, he will return easily. When I say one man, one vote, what I mean is that with the people’s votes, Adeleke will return very, very easily. And there’s no doubt about that. He has the party, its mandate, and the party itself is entrenched everywhere and there’s no crisis in that party. The civil servants are there, the retirees are very happy with him, the market women, farmers, everybody is happy and those are the people that are going to vote. So I want to tell you that he’ll be victorious come 2026.
What can you say about the Federal government in the last two years, the assessment of Bola Tinubu’s administration?
Well, like I said the other time, you see, every governance has its own system.
Every government, or I mean people in government, they have their system and the way things are being done. Like I used to say, nobody does above his knowledge. I think they are doing to the best of their knowledge. Yes, that’s just it. Because the federal government is so big, so wide and that unless one goes into specifics that’s only when you know.
Unfortunately, we Nigerians - I don’t want to use gullibility - we don’t sit down and ask question or assess the government. Even at the local government, you won’t see people assessing the government, asking questions about government activities. If they say they executed a project, at what price? You understand then what does that mean in the percentage of the budgets? How many of these type of thing is done?
So, all of us should be more proactive stakeholders, we should be more proactive in the running of any government around us. It’s not a fight, just ask question and let them see what they have done wrong.
Akinbade
CHURCH SERVICE AT GOVERNMENT HOUSE CHAPEL...
Pa Edwin Clark Lived for Others, Says Goodluck Jonathan
Prominent leaders from the Ijaw ethnic nationality, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, his predecessor, Senator Seriake Dickson, and President, Ijaw National Congress (INC), Prof. Benjamin Okaba, among others, on Monday, paid tribute to the late Ijaw icon and Niger Delta leader, Pa Edwin Clark.
At the lying-in-state and commendation service held at the Ijaw House in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Dr. Jonathan said Chief Clark lived a life of service to others and for a cause he was relentlessly committed to.
The former president noted the only way to honour the Ijaw hero was for his ethnic group to be united, irrespective of kingdom or clan.
He said Clark’s innate qualities singled him out as a leader not just to the Ijaws but also to other ethnic nationalities as attested to by the frequent visits of people from other parts of the country to his home.
His words: “The key thing for us the Ijaw people from Arogbo in the coastal part of Ondo State to Eastern Obolo in the coastal part of Akwa Ibom State to honour Pa Clark is to unite and not to discriminate against ourselves.
“Clark has done very well for us. He was a face of the Niger Delta and not just for the Ijaw ethnic nationality. He was also the face of the oppressed people from the Middle Belt and other tribes visited
him more than the Ijaws.
“He was very vocal, brave and can tackle any human being at any time if you raise issues that are against his philosophy.”
In his tribute, Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, said the Ijaw nation was blessed to have had a father in the mould of Clark, who was known for his fearlessness, courage, intelligence and love for his people and Nigeria as a whole.
According to Senator Diri, “we are not mourning but celebrating the good deeds of Chief Clark. l like us to take a cue from his steadfastness and love for his people as he always spoke about the unity, and development of the Ijaw people until his last moments.”
The Bayelsa governor disclosed that the state executive council had constituted a committee to consider naming iconic structures and streets after living and dead prominent Ijaw personalities like the late Clark, Jonathan and Dickson among others as part of efforts to immortalise them.
He urged Ijaws to demonstrate genuine love for one another and not only for political gains.
“Let us go back to the days when we had no fences in our villages where we lived a communal life of freedom and justice. There are those who have sacrificed their lives for us so that we will have a homogeneous Ijaw state. One of
those who fought for the creation of Bayelsa was Pa Clark.”
In his remarks, Senator Dickson, who represents Bayelsa West in the National Assembly, noted that Clark was a voice respected across the country due to his selflessness.
He said the Ijaws lost one of their best as he lived his entire life for service of his people and prayed that such a leader would emerge from the ethnic group again.
The INC president, Prof. Okaba, eulogised Clark as a supreme
advocate and fearless defender of the marginalised, describing him as an irrepressible voice for the voiceless and a pillar of national unity whose legacy transcended the realm of politics.
He said his passage should be a reminder of the collective responsibility to build a Nigeria that is just, equitable and prosperous for all.
Okaba also stated that the late nonagenarian was one of the few notable champions of the Ijaw struggle whose influence
transcended regional boundaries in Nigeria and beyond, saying he was an extraordinary personality.
In eulogising the late elder statesman, chairman of the Bayelsa traditional rulers’ council, King Bubaraye Dakolo, said his legacies will endure in the hearts of all Ijaws and people of other ethnic nationalities.
King Dakolo lauded Clark for his selflessness and said his voice was the loudest and audacious in Nigeria in speaking truth to power
for justice and equity. Also, national chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum, (PANDEF), Dr. Godknows Igali, captured the late sage’s last moments, revealing that the departed Ijaw icon urged his people to stay united, strong and never give up.
He said Clark embodied the essence of the Ijaw man and always professed his identity. The first son of the deceased, Pinaowei Clark, read the only Bible lesson from Ecclesiastes 3:1-6.
25 Years after First Forensic Lab in Lagos, NDLEA Gets Two More in Abuja, Enugu
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
After over 25 years of conducting forensic analysis in a single laboratory facility in Lagos, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has established two new laboratories and upgraded the existing one to enhance accessibility, expedite timely analysis, and prosecute cases efficiently following a surge in drug seizures over the past months.
The two additional laboratories built in Abuja and Enugu, according to a statement on Monday by the spokesman of the agency, Femi
Insecurity: Russia Pledges
Military Assistance to Nigeria
As NAF Alerts Abuja, Lagos residents on ongoing aerial display rehearsals ahead 61st anniversary celebration
The Russian Federation expressed its preparedness to provide necessary military assistance to the Armed Forces of Nigeria to tackle escalating security threats in the country.
The Russian Defence Minister, Mr. Andrey Belousov, expressed this preparedness when the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Christopher Musa, paid him a courtesy visit at the Russian Ministry of Defence Building in Moscow.
He said the assistance is in line with existing military-technical cooperation with Nigeria.
A statement by the Acting Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, stated the outcomes of subsequent engagements, such as the meeting of the Intergovernmental Working Group and the Armed Forces of Nigeria, will determine the modality for the assistance.
The visit to Russia, he said, was aimed at reiterating Nigeria’s solidarity with the Federation on its 80th Victory Day Commemoration, in honour of Russian heroes who paid the ultimate price for the Federation during World War II. Gusau said that the visit was
highly rewarding, as it enabled the CDS to reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to military cooperation with the Russian Federation.
“It also provided an opportunity for the CDS to outline the operational needs of the AFN, which Russia could potentially support,” he concluded.
In another development, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has informed members of the public, particularly residents of Abuja and Lagos, that aerial display rehearsals are ongoing in both cities as part of preparations for activities marking the 61st Anniversary Celebration of the NAF, scheduled for 23rd May 2025.
Babafemi, are strategically located and equipped with state-of-the-art facilities designed to meet the highest standards of quality and safety protocols, as well as ensuring a safe working environment.
Speaking on the development, the Chairman/Chief Executive of the NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd), said “the newly constructed laboratories will enable us to enhance our forensic analysis capabilities, increase our capacity to process cases efficiently and strengthen our fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.”
He noted that while the two new facilities were set to commence operations, the existing one in Lagos has undergone a comprehensive renovation and refurbishment, transforming it into a state-of-the-art
facility.
“This project was made possible through the sponsorship of the US International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) and implemented by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)”, he stated.
Babafemi said beside equipping the laboratories with additional cutting-edge analytical instruments, the agency in collaboration with the Institute of Public Analysts of Nigeria (IPAN), has conducted the training and certification of 20 NDLEA forensic analysts, meant to empower them to sign off on drug analysis reports, thereby enhancing the agency’s forensic capabilities.
He noted that this is in addition to the implementation of robust quality control measures, following the agency’s successful participation
in three rounds of the UNODC International Collaborative Exercise (ICE) programme, which is an important part of International Quality Assurance Programme (IQAP) to ensure quality management systems, accuracy and reliability of results. While commending the officers, men and women of the agency’s Directorate of Forensic and Chemical Monitoring for working with him to break the over 25 years jinx, Marwa said the milestone achieved in the area of forensic analysis is borne out of his commitment to equipping the laboratories with state-of-the-art instruments and developing the expertise of the agency’s personnel to ensure accurate and reliable forensic analysis, research methodologies and tackling the challenges posed by emerging New Psychoactive Substances (NPS).
Renewed Hope Partner Groups Urged to Make Tinubu’s Agenda Resonate with Abia Grassroots
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia
Partner Groups of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda have been urged to take the message down to the grassroots of Abia State and ensure its resonance with every nook and cranny.
Member representing South East on the board of the North East Development Commission(NEDC), Hon. Sam Onuigbo, gave the charge Monday in Umuahia at the inauguration of the executives of the Abia Central chapter of the Renewed Hope Partners. “We shall carry the message of the good deeds of our President and hope of greater things to come into the various nooks and crannies of our zone,” he said. The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu had initiated the Renewed Hope Partners with the sole mandate to ensure the re-election of President Tinubu through citizen inclusion and participation.
member of the House of Representatives for Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency, commended Mr. Deputy Speaker “for his patriotic zeal of mainstreaming APC’s inclusive agenda”.
He assured both Kalu and Mr. President that “the programmes and policies of the Tinubu administration would become household mantra among our (Abia) people”.
Last month Kalu cleared the way for the spread of the partner support groups for Tinubu in Abia when he opened a general office for the groups. Onuigbo, who was a two-term
“We shall not fail, we shall not falter, but we must fly on the wings of the initiatives of President Tinubu and his dream of Renewed Hope for all Nigerians,” he said.
L-R: Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma; Catholic Bishop of Okigwe Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Solomon Amatu; and First Lady of Imo State, Barr. Mrs. Chioma Uzodimma, shortly after the church service at Government House Chapel, Owerri… Sunday
Linus Aleke in Abuja
PRESENTATION OF PRIZES TO GLO M-AGRIC TRIVIA WINNERS...
L-R: Globacom’s Head of Value Added Services, Mojeed Aluko; Mrs. Fajobi Kabiru, wife of the N1m winner; Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola
N1m winner, Fajobi Kabiru; and Permanent Secretary, Mr. Emmanuel Fatai Audu, at the prize presentation ceremony held by Globacom in Lagos, last Thursday
Yakubu: Necessary Amendment Will Be Ready Before 2027, Says He Remains INEC Chair
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has assured Nigerians that all necessary amendments to the Electoral Act will be completed before the 2027 polls. Yakubu also debunked insinuation in some quarters that he had been sacked, saying he remains the country’s Chief Electoral Officer.
The INEC chairman spoke while fielding questions from newsmen yesterday shortly after the inauguration of two INEC Commissioners by President Bola Tinubu at the Council Chamber, State House, Abuja.
Yakubu stressed that out of the number, eight required electoral amendment.
He said the commission had been interfacing with the National Assembly and that two weeks ago, it had a retreat in Lagos with the
According to him, the commission, alongside relevant stakeholders, had reviewed the 2023 general election and come up with 142 recommendations.
joint committee of the Senate and House of Representatives on electoral reform.
“Thereafter, the National Assembly is going to organise a public hearing, and it’s after the public hearing that now a new bill will, at the end of the day, be submitted to the president for assent.
Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, yesterday, denied the involvement of Chief Olisa Agbakoba and Monday Ubani, both SANs, in the defence of an alleged unlawful suspension suit filed by Kogi State Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Lawyers representing the senate and Akpabio, who were second and third respondents, respectively, told Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court that the two lawyers being accused of disobeying the orders of the court were not members of the legal team.
Akpoti-Uduaghan had dragged the Clerk of the Senate, the Senate, President of the Senate, and the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics to court over her suspension on March 5.
At the resumed hearing of the matter on April 4, Justice Nyako had made an order restraining Akpabio, Akpoti-Uduaghan as well as their
respective lawyers from speaking with the media on the substantive issue and fixed May 12 for hearing of all pending applications.
However, before the next adjourned date, the plaintiff wrote a satirical apology letter to the Senate President, over her suspension from the Senate, based on her alleged refusal to succumb to sexual overtures from the senate president.
The said letter, which was published on her Facebook page on April 27, had since gone viral on social media.
Reacting, the second and third respondents on May 5, brought their respective applications seeking an order of court, directing the suspended senator to delete the viral satirical letter from her Facebook page and also tender an apology to the court for violating the order barring her from speaking with the media.
When the matter came up yesterday, parties in the suit informed
the court that they had all filed their schedule of documents and were ready to proceed with the case.
However, Paul Daudu and Eko Ejembi Eko, both SAN, brought to the court’s attention an affidavit of noncompliance, wherein they accused Akpoti-Uduaghan of disobeying the orders of the court which barred her from speaking to the media.
They claimed that the alleged act of contempt was contained in the satirical letter which went viral on social media and mainstream media.
According to Daudu, the satirical apology was not just a mockery of the Senate and colleagues of the plaintiff but dwelt more on the substance of the case before the court.
Both Daudu and Eko told the court that the plaintiff raised a fresh issue they would want to respond to, explaining that Agbakoba and Ubani are never part of the respondents legal team.
Responding, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s lawyers maintained that the said
UNIABUJA Appoints New Acting Registrar
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Abuja, Dr. Olanrewaju Tejuoso, has approved the appointment of Mrs. Roseline Adakayi as acting registrar of the institution pending the appointment of a substantive registrar.
The letter of appointment signed by the acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Patrica Manko Lar, said Adakayi would serve for a period of six months with effect from Monday 12 May 2025.
In a statement signed by the Acting Director of Information, Dr. Habib Yakoob, Adakayi will be taking over from Mrs. Islamiya Foyeke Abdulraheem, whose six-
month appointment as acting registrar of the institution expires on 12 May 2025.
Mrs. Adakayi joined the service of the university as an administrative officer in the Registry on 2nd November 1999, and rose through the ranks to become deputy registrar in 2013.
She obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Geography from the University of Jos in 1986; Professional Diploma in Land Surveying from the Federal School of Surveying, Oyo, in 1990; and Postgraduate Diploma in Photogrammetry from Federal Centre for Training in Aerospace Surveys (RECTAS), Ile-Ife, in 1994. Adakayi is a seasoned administrator who has served in various departments of the university
such as Student Affairs Division (Hostel), Establishments, Institute of Education, Council Division, College of Health Sciences and the Centre for Distance Learning and Continuing Education before proceeding on sabbatical leave at the University of Jos in April 2024.
Congratulating the new acting registrar, Lar said she was hopeful Mrs. Adakayi would bring abundant experience to her new position.
Lar said: “I congratulate Mrs. Adakayi on her appointment as acting registrar and secretary to council. She will be responsible to the Vice-Chancellor for the day-to-day administration of the university. I am hopeful with her wealth of experience as administrator she will serve the university well.
satirical letter had nothing to do with the proceedings before Justice Nyako, rather a case of sexual harassment before another court.
Besides, lead counsel to the plaintiff, Mr Jibrin Okutepa, SAN, who also accused the respondents of disobeying the orders of the court, informed Justice Nyako of a contempt proceedings initiated against the respondents and urged the court to take their application first.
In a short ruling, the trial judge, who observed that the issue of contempt is crucial to the proceedings, adjourned till today, Tuesday, for hearing of all applications and the substantive suit.
National Assembly on electoral reform, but at this point, I’m not going to give you any more details. You will hear from the National Assembly whose responsibility it is, but we reviewed the 2023, general election on our own.
“We engaged with the stakeholders. We came up with 142 recommendations out of this 142 recommendations, eight require constitutional or Electoral Act amendment, and we discussed this with members of the National Assembly.
“So far so good, we are happy with our discussions with them, and we are also happy with the speed with which they want to proceed so that we’ll have some necessary amendments done to the Electoral Act ahead of the 2027, general elections.”
Yakubu further said INEC now had the complete number of commissioners as required by law.
According to him, “We are here today, basically for the swearing-in of two national commissioners. As you are aware, the commission is made up of a chairman and 12 national commissioners drawn on the basis of two commissioners per geo-political zone.
“So vacancies existed for the North West and the South East, and the Senate has screened and confirmed the nominees, and Mr President
today performed the swearing-in.
“So, we have almost the full compliment of commissioners of the commission. As we are aware also, about two weeks ago or so, we lost one of our commissioners, Major General Modibbo Alkali (rtd), may his soul rest in peace. So now, we have almost the full compliments of commissioners.”
Asked to comment again on the controversy about his office, he said he remained the Chief Electoral Officer of the country.
“I don’t think we need to waste time so much about this unnecessary speculation. As far as the law is concerned, and as far as I’m aware, I remain the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, and under the Constitution, the Chief Electoral commissioner of the Federation, and under the Electoral Act, the returning officer for the presidential election,” he explained.
The two new INEC Commissioners are Mallam Tukur Abdulrazaq Yusuf, representing North-west, and Professor Sunday Nwambam Aja, from Ebonyi State, representing South-east.
The president also swore in two members of the Board of the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB). They were Ikpeme Kenneth Ndem, (Cross River State) and Hon. Justice Buba Ibrahim Nyaure (rtd), Taraba State.
Samuel in
Environmentalists and human rights crusaders yesterday gathered in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, with a call for action to put an end to what they described as the deliberate and systematic destruction of the Niger Delta ecosystem.
At the 4th Niger Delta Alternatives Convergence (NDAC) summit, the stakeholders agreed that the time for empty talk seminars was over, noting that the political class has failed to resolve the issues.
The Convener, Nnimmo Bassey, in his opening address, lamented that two years after the presentation of the report of the Bayelsa State Oil and Environment Commission (BSOEC), no real action has been seen regarding a real response to the report.
Bassey, who is the Director of Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) reminded the participants that genocide is an international crime under the Rome Statutes and is defined as “the deliberate
and systemic destruction of a group of people because of their ethnicity, nationality, religion, or race.
He said: “Thirty years after the tragic deaths and the judicial murder of Ken Saro-Wiwa and other Ogoni leaders, there is yet to be a closure on the Ogoni tragedy.
“The complexity of the clean-up exercise has rendered the region a huge laboratory for studies on how to handle such massive ecocide. Amid this open wound, some political forces still only see possibilities of petrodollars and care little about the discounting of lives in the region.
“We must never make the mistake of thinking that environmental degradation in one part of the region is a burden only for the directly affected part.”
Bassey, therefore called for urgent action especially as the oil companies had started a ‘shady’ divestment, as time is running out. “It is indeed time for remediation, restoration and reparations,” he added.
The keynote speaker, Dr. Isaac
‘Asume’ Osuoka, Coordinator, Social Action International, said for over 60 years, the Niger Delta’s land and waters had been ravaged by unrelenting oil pollution. He stated that this fact was comprehensively documented in two landmark assessments: the 2023 BSOEC report and the 2011 United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) environmental assessment of Ogoniland. He said: “These reports do not merely present technical data; they serve as indictments of a prolonged and systemic pattern of environmental genocide inflicted on our communities through deliberately reckless oil extraction.”
Speaking on the theme: ”Environmental Genocide and the Struggle for Justice in the Niger Delta: Why Shell’s Divestment Must Be Stopped” Osuoka, identified, politics and other self inflicted factors as reason behind the agonies Niger Deltans oil bearing communities are suffering.
Olusanya;
Olusegun
Yenagoa
TRIANGLE MAGAZINE INTERNATIONAL AWARDS...
L-R: Special Adviser and Representative of Lagos State Governor, Gboyega Akosile; Nigeria’s first Professor of Cybersecurity and guest lecturer, Prof. Ojo
and Publisher of Triangle Magazine, Femi Salako, at the 3rd Annual Edition of the
President Tinubu’s Intervention in North
Has Reduced Its Poverty, Says Gov Uba Sani
Declares no president has supported agriculture development like him
John Shiklam in Kaduna Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has said President Bola Tinubu’s intervention in the north, has reduced the level of poverty in the region.
According to him, no government had invested in the agricultural sector like the president in the last two years.
The governor stated this at the distribution of presidential palliative relief materials at the Umaru Yar’ádua Conference Centre, Kaduna on Sunday.
“The poverty level in Northern Nigeria, particularly in the NorthWest, was hovering around 65 per cent to 70 per cent. But in the last two years, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has made very important interventions.
“We are not just talking about palliatives. We are talking about deep, structural support. No president has supported agriculture development like President Tinubu.
“We’ve received fertilizer support, funding for smallholder farmers, and billions in monetary support irrespective of party affiliations. These interventions have addressed infrastructure deficit, job creation, and poverty reduction.”
He called on Nigerians to support the president’s grassroots development agenda at all levels of government, noting that the battle against poverty and unemployment could not be won without full autonomy for local governments.
The governor said further that Tinubu’s understanding of the challenges of sub nationals has led to the initiation of critical interventions aimed at uplifting the poor, especially in northern Nigeria.
He stressed that for the gains to be sustained, local governments must be empowered.
“Without allowing Local Governments autonomy, we cannot address poverty or employment in Nigeria.
All the 23 local government chairmen in Kaduna are here today. You are the real drivers of this initiative,” Sani said.
Highlighting his administration’s commitment to agriculture, the governor said the sector contributed about 43 per cent of Nigeria’s GDP and employed around 60 per cent of the workforce.
He added that , “In Kaduna State we, are fighting poverty through agriculture. We want to remain the agricultural hub of Nigeria.’’
Minister of Budget and Economic
Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, commended the President for his “Renewed Hope” agenda and the courage in implementing tough but necessary reforms.
“The president thinks, breathes, and works for Nigeria. He’s confronting our realities without
blame. Today, our global ratings have improved, and bold measures are turning the country in the right direction,” Bagudu said.
Speaking on behalf of the President, his political adviser, Ibrahim Masari, reiterated Tinubu’s commitment to the welfare of all
Nigerians.
Masari announced the distribution of over 12,000 bags of rice in Kaduna State as part of a nationwide relief initiative.
“This initiative is a demonstration of the president’s empathy and proactive approach to improving
lives. The equitable distribution covers all 255 wards in Kaduna State,” he said. He called on all stakeholders, including community leaders and volunteers, to ensure transparency and fairness in the distribution process.
LP Faction Asks President Tinubu to Rein in Otti over Multiple Threats to Abure, NWC
The Julius Abure faction of the Labour Party, has called on President Bola Tinubu to rein on the governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, over his constant threat to their members.
The Abure faction is particularly worried of the call by Otti on the Inspector General of Police to arrest members of theirfaction.
According to the National Secretary, Labour Party of the Abure’s faction, Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim, ‘’We are not only condemning this despicable action of the governor,
Emergency Rule: Court Fixes May 26 to Hear Suit Against Tinubu, Akpabio, Others
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
A Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, has fixed May 26, 2025, to hear a constitutional suit filed against President Bola Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas and Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), over the declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State.
A former federal lawmaker and 2023 Rivers State governorship aspirant, Dr. Farah Dagogo, had filed the suit challenging the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Prof Ngozi Odu, and members the State House of Assembly by President Tinubu. Tinubu had on March 18, 2025, declared a State of Emergency in Rivers, citing security concerns. He further announced the suspension of the state’s democratically elected leadership and appointed Vice Admiral Ibas (Rtd) as the Administrator of the State.
Believing that the action was unconstitutional, Dagogo filed the case which was registered in Suit No: FHC/PH/CS/50/2025 on April 9, 2025. He argued that the President’s actions were ultra vires and lacked any constitutional backing. At the hearing of the matter. yesterday, counsel to the plaintiff (Dagogo), Cosmas Enweluzo, SAN, informed the court that all defendants had been duly served and expressed readiness to proceed with the case.
However, at the mentioned of the matter, counsel for the fifth defendant (Vice Admiral Ibas), Kehinde Ogunwumiju, SAN, appealed for more time to respond to the originating summons. It was also observed that no counsel represented the other defendants in the matter.
The trial Judge, Justice Adamu Mohammed after hearing submissions by the counsels granted the request for more time.
Justice Mohammed also cautioned that the matter would proceed on the next adjourned date of May 26, regardless of further delays.
Speaking with journalists after the court session, the applicant lawyer, Enweluzo reiterated that President Tinubu acted outside the bounds of the Constitution.
“The case challenges the President’s unilateral appointment of an Administrator for Rivers State and the suspension of duly elected officials, including the Governor, Deputy Governor, and House of Assembly members.
“The President cannot act as a ‘Tin god’. He does not have the constitutional authority to suspend elected representatives or govern over four million Rivers people and those doing businesses in Rivers State by fiat. It is a constitutional aberration and must not be allowed.”
Counsel to the fifth defendant, Ogunwumiju, SAN, declined to comment on the proceedings.
who was recently suspended by the party but are also seeking the intervention of well-meaning Nigerians, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to persuade the governor from further threat to our party and the leadership.
‘’We ordinarily do not always respond to the rantings of most of our members who are undergoing disciplinary actions but on a deeper reflection and going by recent actions especially by this same governor, we deemed it necessary to point out that several threats coming from the governor and his agents in the last few months must not be swept under the carpet.’’
He said, ‘’Otti had ordered the arrest and detention of our National Vice Chairman, Comrade Ceekay Igara, the state chairman, Prince
Ndubeze and other leaders of the party for holding a lawful party meeting in Aba, Abia State.
“In April this year, at a meeting of the disgruntled members of the party held at Transcorp, Governor Otti again, threatened Abure and his leadership with a ‘doomsday’ remark. His recent threat to arrest Abure and the National Working Committee members for suspending him is one threat too many.
“We are by this statement calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to rein in on the governor and to remind him that there is no place for tyranny in a democratic system.
We advise Alex Otti to know the ‘Our Lives Matter’, politics or not.
“Through his media aide, Otti also alleged that Abure is a ‘clown in search of a crown’. We are very
shocked that the governor could condescend that low, because as of 2022,when the governor joined Labour Party after he was rejected by virtually every other political parties in Nigeria, Abure was already wearing a ‘beaded’ crown.
‘’As of that time, the National Chairman was already a king, sitting on the throne. As of that time, Abure was already the king who made Alex Otti, who he is today. Abure was already wearing the crown before Alex Otti met us at the party, genuflecting and wearing a humble demeanour.
“So, how can the same Abure now be a clown in search of a crown. Isn’t it trite to say that Otti who has not added value to the party that made him, is actually the clown?’’
Odu’a Investment, NOP Move to Tackle Unemployment in Southwest
Sanwo-Olu: We need to move from goodwill-based generosity to strategic giving
Sunday Okobi
The Odu’a Investment Company Limited, the investment holding company owned by the six states of Southwest in collaboration with the Nigerian Office for Philanthropy (NOP) have stated that the maiden South West Philanthropy Summit was organised to banish the menace of unemployment, poverty, and lack of investment from the region, as well as engage stakeholders on the role of philanthropy.
The organisation stated that the summit, which was the first of its kind, was born out of the ideals of partnership to provide an opportunity to beam the searchlight on philanthropy and its expanding
role in transforming lives of the people of the region and Nigeria at large.
This was as Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, suggested that to effectively tap into the transformative power of philanthropy, “we need to move from goodwill-based generosity to strategic, sustainable giving that aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals and embraces innovation creativity and sustainable empowerment leading to sustainable growth of society.”
In his address at the summit held in Lagos, at the weekend, the Group Chairman of the Odua Investment Company Limited, Bimbo Ashiru, said a part of the objectives of the
South West Philanthropy Summit was to provide a platform, “to discuss ideas with the potential to contribute exponentially to philanthropy especially in ways that can help address the problem of unemployment in the region.”
“The Summit seeks to achieve this by fostering collaboration, exploring diverse ideas and innovative solutions, and facilitating connections, relationships and conversations that will continue well beyond this year.
“Odu’a Investment Company Limited is an investment holding company with foot prints across multiple sectors, including real estate, agriculture, hospitality, financial services amongst others.
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
Emmanuel Ademola; Interior Minister and keynote speaker, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo;
REWARDING EXCELLENT PERFORMANCE…
L-R: Director-General, Lagos State Sports Commission, Mr. Lekan Fatodu; Lagos Gold-winning Swimming Athlete, Akanbi Demilade; Lagos Gold-Winning Deaf Athletics Athlete, Akinwuwo Oladeji, and Managing Director/CEO, Parallex Bank, Dr. Femi Bakre, during cash award presentation by the Parallex Bank to most outstanding Lagos athletes during the last National Youth Games in Lagos… recently
Group Calls for Defence Minister’s Sack over Escalating Insecurity
Alex Enumah in abuja
A pro-transparency and accountability group, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately sack the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, over what they described as gross incompetence and abysmal failure in tackling the growing insecurity across Nigeria.
The group, Ethics Vanguard, in a statement released yesterday in Abuja, expressed outrage at
Businessman
the worsening state of insecurity under Badaru’s watch, lamenting the daily carnage inflicted on innocent Nigerians by terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and armed militias.
Meanwhile, the group has commended the lawmaker representing Mangu/Bokkos Federal Constituency in Plateau State, Hon. Solomon Maren, for courageously speaking truth to power by publicly denouncing the ineffectiveness of the Defence Ministry in securing lives and
Petitions DSS over Alleged Threat to Life
Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan
An Ibadan-based businessman, Mr. Ayodeji Aleshe, has petitioned the Oyo State Director of the State Security Services (SSS), over alleged threat to his life.
Aleshe, in a petition dated April 28, 2025, by his counsel, Michael Lana, accused Alhaji Saheed Omogbolahan Adigun and Kazeem Agbolahan (aka Lebe) of unlawfully raising a private army and threatening his life over a property that is subjudice.
According to the petition, Aleshe is the claimant over a land known as Nos : NW6/33 and NW6/34 Fajuyi Road, Eko Tedo, Ibadan, in a suit No : I/1095/2024 against Adigun and three others, stating that the suit arose after a man purportedly
acting on behalf of Momodu Akande family instituted an action against Aleshe without his knowledge claiming title to the Momodu Akande family land which is known as NW6/29.
It added that after obtaining judgement over the said land without serving Aleshe, Adigun and others proceeded to Nos : NW6/33 and NW6/34 which had been fenced by Aleshe since 2012 attempting to levy execution instead of Akande’s land which is situated at No : NW6/29.
The petition stated further that rather than wait for the court to deliver judgement in the suit, Adigun decided to raise a private army led by Agbolahan and tormenting Aleshe by threatening his life, warning him that only the living can conclude a case.
ICFN Marks 10th Anniversary, International Coaching Week
The International Coaching Federation, Nigeria Charter Chapter (ICFN) will mark its 10th anniversary during the International Coaching Week (ICW) commencing tomorrow, Tuesday, 13 May 2025.
The ICFN will mark the 10th anniversary with a conference tagged “Impact Conference: A Decade of Coaching Impact,” in Lagos. According to a statement, Dr Tunde Reis is the expected to be the keynote speaker, while the panelists will include Samson Umurhurhu; Dr Mirian Kene, Femi Odelusi, and Linda Uneze.
Speaking on the ICFN ICW 2025, the Membership Director, ICFN, Charles Okeibunor, disclosed that the International Coaching Federation (ICF) holds the flagship event every year.
“The week is usually designed to communicate to the entire world what the power of coaching is, as relating to how personal development is concerned.
“Oftentimes, what people think whenever they hear coaching is that it is about coaching. In another case, when they hear coaching, they think it is about sports.
“But the ICW is such a time and event where people get to understand that coaching is an empowering conversation designed to bring out the potential of coachees to achieve their goals or fulfill their purpose.
“During the ICW therefore, the ICF, Nigeria Charter Chapter will be x-raying the power of coaching to the entire world.
property.
According to the Executive Director of Ethics Vanguard, Miss Amina Mohammed, the time has come for decisive action, not
rhetorical assurances or cosmetic changes, insisting that President Tinubu must replace Badaru with a competent, tested and proactive defence strategist or a committed
statesman who can coordinate the armed forces efficiently and reinvigorate Nigeria’s counterterrorism operations.
“The scale and intensity of
attacks across Nigeria under Mohammed Badaru Abubakar’s tenure as Minister of Defence is not only frightening but also unacceptable,” she stated.
Global Business Optimism Slips amid Trade Uncertainty, Says Dun & Bradstreet
Global business optimism declined slightly in the second quarter of 2025, Dun & Bradstreet (D&B’s) latest Global Business Optimism Insights (GBOI) report has said.
The quarterly sentiment tracker from the global business information provider recorded a 1.3 per cent dip in overall confidence, highlighting ongoing
challenges linked to trade policy uncertainty and its ripple effects across industries.
The GBOI aggregates insights from five key indices—growth expectations, supply chain continuity, financial confidence, investment sentiment, and ESG outlook. The second quarter findings revealed that export-
dependent sectors are particularly vulnerable, facing increased cost pressures and demand volatility due to rising tariffs and shifting trade barriers.
“While some supply chain disruptions have eased through diversification efforts, inflationary pressures and tight liquidity continue to impact financial
confidence globally. Investment sentiment remains cautious, except in AI and automation, where optimism is growing” the report stated. On the ESG front, businesses continue to prioritise environmental sustainability, although focus on social and governance aspects has slightly waned.
Odu’a Investment, NOP Move to Address Unemployment, Poverty in South-east
Sunday Okobi
Odu’a Investment Company Limited, the investment holding company owned by the six states of South-west in collaboration with the Nigerian Office for Philanthropy (NOP) at the weekend stated that the maiden South West Philanthropy
Summit was organised to address the menace of unemployment, poverty and lack of investment from the region, as well as engage stakeholders on the role of philanthropy in the region.
The organisation stated that the summit, which was the first of its kind, was borne out of the ideals of partnership to provide an opportunity to beam the searchlight on philanthropy and its expanding role in transforming lives of the people of the region and Nigeria at large.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu suggested that to effectively tap into the transformative power of philanthropy, “we need to move from goodwill-based generosity to strategic, sustainable giving that aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals and embraces innovation creativity and sustainable empowerment leading to sustainable growth of society.”
Environment Genocide: ‘Time for Remediation, Restoration, Reparation is Now’
Olusegun Samuel in yenagoa
Stakeholders including environmentalists and human rights crusaders, yesterday gathered at the 4th Nigeria Delta Alternatives Convergence (NDAC) summit, held in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, with a call for action in putting an end to the deliberate and systematic destruction of the Niger Delta ecosystems.
The stakeholders all agreed that the time of talks, summits and seminars are over and agreed that going into social actions with the people concerned, who should be the driver of the struggle like the Ogoni did years ago, as the political class has failed.
The Convener, Nnimmio Bassey, in his opening address, lamented that two years after the presentation of the report of the Bayelsa State Oil and Environment Commission (BSOEC) and with the flurry of activities that accompany it’s presentation, not a word, not a perceptible step, has been seen regarding a real response to the report.
African Cycling Foundation Advocates Safer Roads for Cyclists, Pedestrians
FunmiOgundare
TheAfrican Cycling Foundation (ACF) at the weekend called on government authorities and communities in Lagos to prioritise safer streets, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists.
Speaking at an event held in Epe to commemorate the 8th UN Global
Road Safety Week, in partnership with Gabriel Rotimi Aroge ( GRA) Empowerment Foundation and Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), the Project Manager, Dennis Kange, explained that road safety is not just a transportation concern, but a critical public health and developmental issue.
“People are dying on our roads every day. Road fatalities claim an estimated 1.2 million lives globally every year. We need immediate action to enforce speed regulations and create safer crossings, especially with the new Lekki-Epe expressway now in heavy use,” Kange stated.
This year’s theme: ‘Make Walking and Cycling Safe’, he noted, resonates deeply with theACF’s mission, adding that through initiatives such as the school cycling challenge and the Trans-safe project, ACF promotes cycling as a sustainable, healthy mode of transportation while addressing infrastructure gaps and driver awareness.
President Tinubu Commended for Commitment to Transformation of Nigerian Armed Forces
Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi
The Air Officer Commanding Special Operations Command,Air Vice Marshall(AVM) Usman Kandi Abdullahi, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to the development and transformation of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
AVM Abdullahi was speaking in his welcome address on the occasion of the Command’s Open Day Visit in Bauchi as part of the activities lined up to celebrate the 61st anniversary of the Nigerian Air Force.
He said that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has continued to benefit from the unwavering support of the President Tinubu, who according to him, has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the development and transformation of the Nigerian Armed Forces. He also acknowledged the efforts of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal HB Abubakar, saying that he has been instrumental in enhancing the operational capacity of the Nigerian Air Force.
Former Bayelsa Gov, Capt Olubolade, Slumps, Dies
Segun James
Former Military Administrator of Bayelsa State, Navy Captain Omoniyi Caleb Olubolade (rtd), is dead. Olubolade, the Ipoti-Ekiti-born
retired officer, who celebrated his 70th birthday on November 30, 2024, died on Sunday May 11 in Apapa, Lagos.
According to a statement by his daughter, Mrs. Oluwayemisi Akinadewo and son, Mr. Dayo
Olubolade, he left the house to play lawn tennis at a nearby facility where he slumped.
“He drove himself to the facility to play lawn tennis in the evening and slumped while playing. Efforts were
made by medical officers around to revive him to no avail. He was immediately rushed to Obisesan Naval Medical Hospital, Apapa where he was pronounced dead,” the statement added.
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will not be allowed to hijack the SDP for their personal battles against Tinubu, and that the SDP “will not be a getaway car for a conspiracy and robbery.” He even referred to the possibility of the coalition being “just a crime centre for disappointed Tinubu followers.” Mr. Adebayo has done a much better job than Tinubu’s appointed spokespersons. Within the same week that he made a volte-face as it were, Governors of the PDP, the main opposition party, along with the party’s leaders and the Acting National Chairman of the Party, Ambassador Umar Damagum met in Ibadan to distance themselves and the party from any coalition or merger talks. The PDP Governors literally threw their 2023 Presidential candidate under the bus, even when there was an attempt to sugar-coat the Ibadan meeting as an attempt to reposition the PDP as the go-to party for other Nigerian politicians.
The cloud cleared not long after when the PDP Governor of Delta State, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the former Governor, Senator Patrcik Okowa, all members of the Delta State House of Assembly, local government chairmen and other party members decided to declare en masse for the APC. The main justification offered by both the former Governor and the incumbent is that Delta State cannot afford to be on the periphery of national politics. Senator Okowa put it as follows: “... It was not about me. It was not about the Governor, but about the fact that there is a need for us to connect to Abuja. That goodwill that is in Abuja, that resource that is in Abuja, of which Delta State is a large contributor – there was a need to connect to it.” It is odd that most Nigerian politicians believe that they have to connect with the party at the centre. Nigeria is a diverse, heterogenous nation. It must be the worst form of retrogressive politics to wilfully encourage the quasi-unitary system that Nigeria’s democracy appears to be. The collapse of the PDP structure in Delta State is most unfortunate. Since 1999, this had been a PDP state, but now Senator Okowa says he and the Governor and others have acted in the people’s interest. Which people? We need to be told what the people of Delta State have gained and where a referendum was organized to know the people’s mind. The political elite in the state are interested in themselves and the fight has now started over the control of the APC in Delta State, a three-way fight between the Governor, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, hitherto the APC leader in Delta, and Hon. Festus Keyamo, SAN, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development. Governor Oborevwori has since gone to the Presidential Villa to pay obeisance to the President.
In Akwa Ibom state, Governor Umo Eno openly endorsed President Tinubu for a second term. He boasted that the people of the state “will stand by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for eight years”. He even quoted the Bible to justify his anti-party vituperations. Like Delta, Akwa Ibom has been a traditional PDP state having produced four PDP Governors since the return to civil-
Then came a large and historic opportunity in 1990 for turnaround management at FSB International Bank— where I served as Chairman and CEO. Ado was persuaded to leave his comfort zone at NNPC to embark on a journey fraught with risk and uncertainty. He was one of the earliest executive management hires who led the multifaceted pillars of the transformation exercise at FSB. He and his colleagues were simply a marvel to behold as they were able to transform a failed bank into one of the most successful turnaround stories of our time. Thus, he quickly rose to become an Executive Director responsible for the Institutional and Corporate Banking Directorate - a mandate for which he gave the very best of mind and spirit. Because of his legendary people management skills, Ado was able to attract a number of exceptionally talented young men and women from the most innovative and forward- looking financial institutions to form a large part of the core turnaround team. Because of his knack for service excellence and formidable persuasive and negotiation skills, FSB became a magnetic field for attracting the crème de la crème of corporate clients. Because of his sterling qualities as a calm, steady hand, we were able to foster a culture of excellence in team building, unity, and cohesion across our geographies. His rock-solid ethical conduct and integrity contributed in no small way to forging a climate of trust and transparency inside and outside the Bank. Because of his radiating personality, cool head, and dazzling brilliance, he gave us alternative paths to weathering many storms. Such was the make of this remarkable human being.
ian rule in 1999. In the North, Senator Sumaila Kawu (NNPP, Kano South) has also since led members of the New Nigeria People’s Party and the Kwankwasiya movement to the APC. Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, leader of the party is stunned! In Osun, Hon Wole Oke (representing Oriade/Obokun Federal Constituency) has also moved to the APC. Oke has been a lawmaker on the platform of the PDP for about 20 years. Like Governor Oborevwori of Delta state, he says his movement to the APC is strategic. The other big revelation is the endorsement last week of President Tinubu by Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). The President was on a state visit to Anambra where there would be a Gubernatorial election on November 8. Professor Soludo heaped so much praise on the President, who is of a rival party extraction, that a section of the crowd, APGA supporters, started singing: “Na our Papa be dis oh, we no get another one”. The reception for the visiting President was so joyous that the Governor at some point broke into a sprint and he and his guest had a short dance together. Tinubu left Anambra with a chieftaincy title conferred on him by 179 traditional rulers led by the Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council: “Dike si mba Anambra.” Confidently, the Chairman of the APC has boasted that “2027 is a done deal”. Those who have argued vehemently with him on this score may be doing so in vain. No week passes without a new or old group pledging allegiance to President Tinubu, and it looks like there will be more. Over the weekend, PDP Governors met in Abuja, again, after the Ibadan meeting. The main news was that the meeting was attended by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, a known PDP chieftain, and Governor, who designed the rebellion within the party in 2023. He has been very aggressive in reminding everyone of his unshakeable support
for President Tinubu. He is said to be behind the crisis in Rivers State, and the mass movement of other politicians into the APC. He does not deny his loyalty to President Tinubu. The meeting of the PDP Governor’s Forum in Abuja ended without any major disclosures. It is not impossible that the PDP leaders ended their meeting, singing: “On your Mandate we shall stand, Tinubu, on your mandate we shall stand” as they did in Ibadan. We live in such interesting times that by the following day, the Nigerian media was awash with news of the declaration of support for President Tinubu’s second term in office by former First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan. She declared that Mrs. Remi Tinubu is her friend and she would not join anybody to remove her friend’s husband from office. Where are the coalition politicians? They seem to have lost out. The owner of the game has upstaged them.
However, there is now across the land, the fear of an emerging one-party state, namely that before the 2027 general elections, the only party that would be standing would probably be the APC. Or better still, the only Presidential candidate that will be standing on very firm grounds would be President Tinubu. With the growing politics of personality cult and the stomach, it would be much easier for the APC to win the election than at any other time since 2015. A one-party state is the very opposite of multi-party democracy which our country recognizes. The Nigerian Constitution recognizes the diversity, the pluralism of the country, and on that basis alone it would be difficult for anyone to impose one individual or one political party on Nigeria. Any attempt to change the Constitution along those lines could be stoutly resisted and it would be such a discredit to President Tinubu’s democratic credentials. He should not contemplate it.
The civil society in Nigeria today is in a relative wait and see mode; it is important that the APC
government does not do anything to trigger its sleeping energy. One-party states are often based on a defined ideology such as communism in China, Cuba, North Korea, Eritrea, Vietnam or fascism in Nazi Germany and Musolini’s Italy. In next-door Republic of Benin, Mathieu Kerekou after seizing power in 1972, imposed a left wing, one -party state on the country. Benin later transformed to a multi-party democracy in 1990. The country is yet to fully recover from the damages imposed by that political experience. A one- party state is an authoritarian state. Professor Adele Jinadu, a political scientist, scholar and theorist has warned against the dangers of authoritarianism. Citizens in a one-party state are robbed of their fundamental freedoms, competition is not allowed, dissent is punished, power is centralized, the same centre that members of the Delta PDP are struggling to identify with. A one-party state reality will roll back whatever Nigerians have achieved with the return to civilian rule in 1999.
In states where people subscribe to a one-party system, the ideological illusion is that such states are organized for the benefit of the people and that the politicians are strictly guided by the common good. In Nigeria, all the defecting politicians mention the people’s name only in vain. What is it that motivates them to join the pro-Tinubu bandwagon? Persuasion, inducement, coercion, or the fear that they could be punished for crimes committed, or corruption? It is the fashion in Nigeria that once you identify with the centre or the man of power, you are rewarded with the forgiveness of your sins or a place in the corridors of power. The same Nigerian politicians who are disappearing into the APC today would run into another party the day the APC leaves power. They won’t even think about the amorality of their action. The name of the people will still be invoked: the same poor, impoverished people whose misery the leaders have failed to reverse. There is also the legal challenge. When the whole of Delta State PDP moved to the APC, the acting Chairman of the PDP threatened that the defection will be challenged in court, but can anyone trust that this approach will work? In Rivers with a similar situation, it was even the courts that further complicated the process. Whereas lawmakers can be challenged within the purview of Sections 68 (1)(g), and 109 (1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution, the law is silent on the fate of defecting Governors. The last time Nigeria saw a defecting Governor who demonstrated honour, integrity and pride was with Mallam Abubakar Rimi of Kano State ((1979 – 1983). When Rimi fell out with Mallam Aminu Kano, the leader of his party, the Peoples’ Redemption Party (PRP), and defected to the Nigerian Peoples’ Party (NPP), he resigned as Governor and handed over to his Deputy. It is a terrible sign of the times that men of such integrity are today in short supply. There is an urgent need for a Constitutional review to make it compulsory for anyone at all who leaves the party on whose platform he/she wins election to automatically vacate the position.
gamation of eight banks following the 2007 Banking Industry Consolidation Exercise. Yet again, he laid a solid foundation for building a dynamic and competitive financial institution. The capstone of Ado’s career came in 2023, when he was named an Independent Director of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), playing a crucial role in monetary policy formulation and execution. I know that his dear friend, Yemi Cardoso, will sorely miss him. At a personal level, Ado was a bosom friend, colleague, partner, and intellectual soulmate. Through many seasons he has been a source of inspiration and clarity whenever I was in doubt. Whenever I hit a thunderstorm at a personal or professional level, his calm, reasoned judgement gave me a pathfinder. But beyond all this, his milk of human kindness and sincerity was effusive and overpowering
As a traditional titleholder of “Magajin Gari” in Bauchi Emirate, Ado’s credentials in contributing to the welfare and development of the emirate are superb and worthy of high commendation. He was a man of deep and profound faith. He was deeply devoted to his family and raised his children in his own image.
I bear witness to his limitless passion and unwavering love for Nigeria, reflected in the many national engagements he championed and those that we undertook together. Ado had many more years of service to offer his country, but Allah knows best, and we all must answer His call at the appointed time. May the soul of this fine, distinguished, and deeply cultured Nigerian rest in perfect peace. We pray that Jummai, Maryam, and their offspring find the strength to bear this enormous loss.
Ado later transitioned to First Bank, Nigeria’s largest financial institution, serving as Group Executive Director, contributing significantly to its landmark transformation
modernisation—clearly leaving an indelible mark on the bank.
Unity Bank, an amal-
President Tinubu
Ado Yakubu Wanka
Flying Eagles First African Team to Qualify for U20 World Cup in Chile
Beat defending champions Senegal to qualify for U20
Duro Ikhazuagbe
Nigeria’s Flying Eagles defeated cup holders Senegal 3-1 in shootouts yesterday to book their ticket to the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup finals scheduled to hold in Chile later in the year. Regulation and extra time had ended goalless in the quarter final clash of the U20 AFCON between Nigeria and Senegal at the Suez Canal Authority Stadium in Ismailia, Egypt’s third largest city.
The country’s goalkeeper, Ebenezer Harcourt, who had gone largely untested so far in the U20 AFCON tournament here, was the hero of the penalty kicks as he saved Pierre Dorival and Mame Mor Faye’s spot kicks while Ousmane Konate blasted his kick against the sticks to hand victory to the Flying Eagles. Before the spot kicks, Harcourt punched over a vicious shot by the dangerous Ibrahima Dieng in the the 54th minute. Nigeria largely controlled proceed-
ings in the last quarter-hour, with Divine Oliseh, Kparobo Arierhi and substitute Precious Benjamin all missing good chances.
In extra time, substitute Tahir Maigana rattled Senegal goalkeeper Mouhamed Sissokho with a great shot from distance, and Israel Ayuma’s heaved effort from a free-kick on the left forced Sissokho to backtrack quickly and punch the ball over the bar.
Precious Benjamin, Emmanuel Chukwu and Israel Ayuma all
converted their spot kicks while the Senegalese could only score one.
The victory sets the Flying Eagles up against the winner of last night’s late clash between South Africa and the Democratic Republic of Congo, also at the same venue.
President of NFF, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, expressed delight that the Flying Eagles have picked a ticket to the World Cup finals.
“The ticket to the World Cup was the first objective and we have achieved that. The second
Lagos Legends Club Plans IGP Egbetokun Four-sport Competition for Schools
Lagos Legends Club, a collection of former sports men resident in Lagos State, is set to launch an annual Inspector General of Police (IGP) Four-sport Championships for schools across the state.
According to the ex internationals, this initiative aims to promote teamwork, mentorship, and positive relationships between law enforcement and the community.
Speaking when the leadership of the ex internationals paid a courtesy call on the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr Olukayode Egbetokun Ph.D, in Abuja recently, Engr. Waidi Akanni, a former Super Eagles player and also former Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association, stressed that this sports competition aims to make meaningful impact on the lives of young Nigerians.
While commending the IGP for the warm reception and cordial atmosphere accorded the ex internationals at the Force Headquarters in Abuja during the visit, said only a former sportsman like the IGP could have done that.
Italy to Support
“We are delighted to learn that IGP
shared a similar passion for sports like most of us in the Legends club, having played
football during his school days at Ahmadiya College in Agege.
“This common ground sparked a lively conversation about leveraging sports, particularly football, to engage and develop Nigerian youth,” observed Akanni.
The former Lagos FA Chairman further paid glowing tribute to the IGP Egbetokun’s enthusiasm and vision for harnessing sports as a tool for development. “This is truly inspiring. I’m confident that this ideas to use this four-sport competition to inspire and mentor youths will be followed through.”
Akanni further expressed gratitude to IGP Egbetokun for his innovative approach to policing and his dedication to improving the lives of Nigerian youth. “his impressive track record over the past 18 months has set a high standard for his tenure. I therefore encouraged him to continue his excellent work.”
He promised that modalities for the four-sport competition will be unveiled shortly when a detailed format will be made known to the public.
Nigeria Technically for 2025 African Fencing Championships
To kickstart their four-year partnership, the Italian Fencing Federation (Federazione Italiana Scherma, FIS) will provide technical support to the Nigerian Fencing Federation in preparation for the 2025 African Senior Championships, scheduled to take place in Lagos from June 25 to 29, 2025.
objective is to win the trophy, and after congratulating the team for their effort, I have reminded them that the country is waiting for them to bring the trophy back home.”
Meanwhile, the Flying Eagles have been joined in the semi final of this year’s U20 AFCON by hosts Egypt and Morocco. Like Nigeria,
FG to Shut Down IBB Golf Club Until 2026
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
Crisis enmeshed IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja may not be reopened until next year, THISDAY learnt yesterday.
Police and officials of Department of State Services (DSS) have occupied the club since its indefinite closure on April 26 before the Annual General Meeting to avert the club from plunging into crisis over the appointment of Board of Trustees.
It was gathered that the indefinite closure will afford authorities to renovate the club to world-class standard pending its reopening not expected to be later than next year.
The extensive course overall is to be carried out by Julius Berger, which originally designed the layout in 1991 and is to be jointly funded by Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Federal Ministry of Works and the National Sports Commission (NSC).
Impeccable sources revealed to THISDAY that a directive was issued to members by the Peter Deshi-headed Interim Management Committee (IMC) to expedite the removal of their personal items from the locker-rooms as the safety of such items could not be guaranteed due to the planned renovation.
The directive frantically forced many members to rush to the club to retrieve their items, including those who owned buggies packed in the club.
Security operatives only allowed the members to access the club to remove their belongings upon proper identification. Only essential office workers, including security men and course workers are allowed into the course by DSS officials and police men attached to the facilities.
Even members of the IMC that routinely meet at the club have to be well identified before they can gain access into the course.
Carlo Ancelotti Appointed New Brazil Manager
Carlo Ancelotti has been appointed the new manager of Braziland will leave Real Madridlater this month.
Ancelotti, 65, has agreed a deal with the Brazilian federation and is due to begin his role on May 26.
The Italian’s final match in charge of Madrid will be at home to Real Sociedadthe previous weekend, concluding the La Ligaseason. Ancelotti will wave goodbye to the Bernabeu after a trophy-laden second spell which so far includes two Champions Leaguecrowns and two Spanish titles.
Having returned to Madrid in 2021, the former Chelseaand Evertonboss still had one year left on his contract but club chiefs have agreed to part ways after a
disappointing season. Real have been dominated by arch rivals Barcelonathis season, with Sunday’s 4-3 defeat all but securing Hansi Flick’steam the league title. Los Blancos are seven points adrift of Barcelona with three games remaining. That was their fourth loss to Barca this season, two of which were in domestic cup finals.
Ancelotti will be replaced by Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso, who’s already confirmed to be leaving his current position.
Brazilian businessman Diego Fernandes has brokered the deal on behalf the Brazilian FootballConfederation (CBF) after months of speculation and talk of U-turns.
Gov. Abiodun Hails NPFL for Harmonised Calendar
Italy signed a four-year partnership agreement in December 2024 to advance the development of fencing in Nigeria through technical support and knowledge transfer. As part of this plan, a top Italian fencing coach is expected to arrive in Nigeria next month to train coaches and athletes ahead of the continental showpiece.
in preparation for the Senior African Fencing Championships. This camp will precede the tournament.
The coach will lead a training camp focused on coach development, complemented by athlete training,
As one of the top fencing nations in the world, Italy’s technical support will help update the knowledge of Nigerian coaches and assist athletes in their preparation for the African championship.
Adeyinka Samuel, President of the Nigerian Fencing Federation,
emphasized that the decision to bring in a top Italian coach is part of the partnership aimed at empowering Nigerian coaches and assisting athletes in their tournament preparation. Additionally, Prof. Luigi Mazzone, President of FIS, is expected to be in Nigeria as a special guest of honor at the 2025 Senior African Fencing Championships.
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun is excited with developments in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) which he said has been able to establish a pattern for its calendar. Abiodun spoke while receiving a delegation from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) led by the President, Ibrahim Gusau and Chairman of the NPFL, Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye. They were in Abeokuta to felicitate the Governor following the official presentation of the 2024/25 NPFL season trophy to Remo Stars. The Governor said it is commendable that the NPFL season
has been adjusted to run parallel to most global leagues which are concluded before the month of June. “While the champions, our own Remo Stars from Ogun State was crowned on Sunday, there is just one more game to conclude the season which means the season will be shutting down this May just as will be the case with most European leagues. This is commendable”, remarked Abiodun who was in Ikenne for the elaborate trophy presentation ceremony. He also lauded the NPFL Board led by Elegbeleye for organising a hitch-free season that produced a champion without rancor.
Egypt earned their passage to the last four and a ticket to the 2025 World Cup by virtue of winning penalty shootouts. Egypt played out a thrilling 2-2 draw with Ghana all the way to extra time before the host nation carried the day 5-4 on penalties.
Flying Eagles celebrating their 3-1 shootouts victory against defending champions Senegal in Ismaila, Egypt...yesterday
Inspector General Of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun Ph.D (right), receiving a customised Lagos Legends Club jersey from Engr Waidi Akanni during the club’s leadership visit to the Force Headquarters in Abuja...recently
Egbetokun
ABATI
Defections And Threat Of One-Party State
When the latest wave of defections began in March 2025, marked by the high profile exit of Mallam Nasir El Rufai from the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nigeria’s ruling party, of which he is a founding member, and his open association with “like minds” such as Waziri Atiku Abubakar (PDP) and Mr. Peter Obi of the Labour Party who together promoted the idea of a coalition of the opposition to get President Tinubu and the APC out of power, there had been speculations about whether or not coalition politics would work in Nigeria at this time.
I had reflected on the development in two pieces: “Nasir El-Rufai’s Defections: PDP, CPC, APC, SDP” (ThisDay, March 11) and “The Emerging Coalition Against Tinubu/APC” (ThisDay, March 18). Reactions to El-Rufai’s exit and the idea of a coalition were varied and robust. Shehu Sani, spokesperson of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) which El Rufai had announced he was joining dismissed El-Rufai as a liability to the APC and his latest political choice as being of
his defection as a “non-event” which no one should be disturbed about. Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy, in a television interview had warned that the former Governor was sulking because he was not a Minister in President Tinubu’s cabinet, but “he should stop behaving like a child as if someone stole his bread and learn to move on”. El-Rufai was not ready to move on. Instead, the coalition leaders who wanted to sack Tinubu from office held public meetings. They even visited the former President, Muhammadu Buhari who tactically, and promptly dissociated himself from any attempt to sabotage the same party through which he served as President for eight years.
Mr. Onanuga dismissed the coalition politicians as “disgruntled… sore losers, an amalgam of Tinubu haters” and that the President who is “focused on governance to build a prosperous country would not be distracted.”
It would be naïve for anyone to think that a political leader, not even one that is well versed in the art of conspiratorial politics, would wave off an attempt to unseat him from office. Politicians
Tribute to Ado Yakubu Wanka:
In yielding to the will of Almighty God, we give thanks for the life of Ado Yakubu Wanka, who was taken from us too soon on Thursday, May 1, 2025. Although born into a powerful and influential family in Bauchi with an uncommon gift of a magnificent brain and a superbly refined mind, he never allowed these gifts to cloud his humility. Ado chose an unconventional path defined by simplicity, humility, decency, and kindness—qualities he embodied from our university years until the end.
Ado graduated with distinction from Ahmadu Bello University, earning a degree in Chemical Engineering, followed shortly by a Masters in Business Administration. My personal relation with Ado began while we were in the university, and flourished in the course of our working careers. Armed with exceptional knowledge and ambition, he began his career at Ashaka Cement as a Process
Engineer, leaving an indelible mark. In 1984, he made a pivotal shift into banking and
finance, joining the New Nigeria Development Company (NNDC), the nation’s single largest diversified holding company— where I was serving as Group Managing Director and CEO. As part of a dynamic team of changemanagement agents, he played a vital role in a transformational strategic planning exercise, elevating NNDC from a development-focused institution to a commercially driven, innovative financial institution. Arthur Anderson (the foremost global management consulting firm) was onboarded for a period of 18 months to midwife the organisation through this transformative change. Ado, as an integral part of the transformation exercise, attended to his duties with skill and distinction.
No surprise that he was soon promoted to head the newly created Divestiture Department to oversee the restructuring and divestiture of underperforming businesses. In the world of investment banking, mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures are very cumbersome and
love to defeat their opponents. In the rough and tumble jungle of Nigerian politics, it is the person with the smartest strategy that wins. It is a fitting illustration of the political dexterity of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that in less than two months, he and his strategists have switched the cards, and turned the tables. The voice of the coalition leaders has been muted out, drowned out, and when occasionally they speak up, they tend to sound like the meow-ing of a compound cat. The new reality in town is that the same opposition figures that were called upon by Atiku and co to join hands together to remove Tinubu are all now forming a pro-Tinubu coalition, kissing his ring, singing his praise. It didn’t take too long, less than a month for Mr. Adewole Adebayo, the 2023 Presidential candidate of the SDP, for example, who had earlier welcomed Nasir El-Rufai and other persons into the party, to start singing a different tune. At the 50th birthday celebration of his wife in Abuja, Adebayo told everyone within earshot in April that El-Rufai and Atiku
complex undertakings with huge political undertones. Thus, it naturally fell to Ado to apply his complex mind and grit in building and motivating a strong team with a flair for excellence to successfully execute his mission. For this he earned the prestigious Group Managing Director’s Merit Award in 1988. Following his tenure at NNDC, Ado had a brief stint at Citibank before joining the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). His talents quickly caught the attention of leadership, leading to his promotion as Head of the Strategic Planning Section. Coincidentally, Arthur Andersen was actively shaping NNPC’s long-term strategic planning culture at the time. Leveraging his previous planning experience at NNDC, Ado made important contributions to NNPC’s organisational transformation under the visionary leadership of Dr. Rilwanu Lukman.
“no consequence”. El-Rufai’s old colleagues in the Kaduna State Chapter of the APC dismissed
President Bola Tinubu
Ado Yakubu Wanka
L-R: Managing Director/Chief Executive, Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Mr. Bello Hassan; Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; and Executive Director, NDIC (Corporate Services), Mrs. Emily C. Osuji, during a courtesy visit to the Force Headquarters, Abuja… weekend
