TUESDAY 18TH MARCH 2025

Dangote to Build 18m MTA Cement Plant in Itori,

Largest Seaport at Olokola in Ogun State

Says Abiodun’s vision, policies brought him back to the state Alleges his factory was pulled down twice by Amosun’s govt You can’t bully, blackmail or compromise me, Amosun tells Dangote

Aliko Dangote, said by the time he was done with his cement plants across Ogun State, the total capacity would be 18 million metric tons per

annum, making the state the highest cement-producing state or region in Africa.

Dangote, who said the vision and

policies of Governor Dapo Abiodun brought him back to the state, also said he would work with the state government to return to Olokola,

with plans to construct the largest port in the country. Dangote spoke during a courtesy visit to the governor at his office in

Ogun was one of the most

Continued on page 9

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Inflation Declines to 23.18%

Amid Lower Food, Energy Prices

Highest in Edo, Enugu, Sokoto, others

James Emejo in Abuja

The Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures the rate of change in the prices of goods and services, further declined to 23.18 per cent in February, compared to 24.48 per

cent in the preceding month, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said yesterday. Year-on-year, the headline inflation was 8.52 per cent lower than 31.70 per cent recorded in February 2024. According to the CPI report for

the review period, month-on-month, inflation stood at 2.04 per cent in February. Year-on-year, food inflation dropped by 14.41 per cent to 23.51 per cent in February, compared to 37.92 per cent in the corresponding

year. NBS, however, pointed out that the significant decline in food inflation was technically due to the change in the base year, following the recent rebasing of CPI from 2009 to 2024.

Nonetheless, the food index month-on-month, stood at 1.67 per cent, with the average annual rate for the 12 months ending February 2025 over the previous 12-month average at 34.74 per cent, compared to 30.07 per cent in February last year.

Continued on page 9

Finally, Rivers State Assembly Begins Impeachment Process against Fubara, Ordu

Accuses him of abuses, deputy of misconduct

Gov denies frustrating Supreme Court verdict

As long predicted, the political crisis in Rivers State is beginning to reach its culmination, as the House of Assembly, yesterday, issued notices of impeachment against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Ordu.

In separate letters, the Assembly, in the notices of impeachment, accused Fubara of abuses and Ordu of misbehaviour.

But Fubara denied the allegations by the Amaewhule-led Assembly that he was frustrating a re-presentation of the 2025 appropriation bill as ordered by the Supreme Court in its recent judgement.

The impeachment letter by the Assembly, dated March 14, 2025, was released yesterday, March 17,

morning.

Addressed to the speaker, Martin Amaewhule, and titled, “Notice of Allegations of Gross Misconduct Brought Pursuant to Section 188 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) 1999,” the letter was signed by 26 members of the house.

The letter accused the governor of gross misconduct in the performance of the functions of the office of the governor, including spending public funds contrary to sections 120, 121 and 122 of the constitution.

It read, “Mr Speaker, we conclude by stating that the governor has shown that he is not prepared to govern Rivers State in line with the Constitution of the Federal Republic

Continued on page 9

L-R: President of Dangote

Governor’s

and

Abeokuta. He said

James Sowole in Abeokuta and Peter Uzoho in Lagos President of Dangote Group, Alhaji

Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote,

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, during the visit of Dangote Group to the

Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Ogun State, yesterday

NBS stated, “Compared to the month of January 2025, there was an observed decline in the average prices of food items like yam tuber, potatoes, soya beans, flour of maize/

Nigeria’s Economy Has Turned the Corner, VP Says at Iftar

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

BREAKING OF RAMADAN FAST WITH HOUSE LEADERSHIP...

L-R:

Nigeria’s Economy Has Turned the Corner, VP Says at Iftar with Tinubu, House Leadership

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Vice-President Kashim Shettima, last night, boasted that the nation’s economy has turned the corner and on the path of sustained growth.

Shettima, who said with perseverance, the government would create a Nigeria where every citizen could thrive, however, called on the leadership of the National Assembly to uphold their sacred responsibility by prioritising unity and national development over political divisions and partisan interests.

humility and a shared commitment to progress.

He said, “In the end, history will not judge us by the number of personal battles we fought against one another, but by the bridges we were able to build together.

“We are gathered here this evening not as adversaries in a contest for power, but as partners in the noble task of nation-building.”

and measured by the impact we leave behind,” he said.

Earlier, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, thanked President Tinubu for the invitation to break fast with him and for always showing respect and concern for the House of Representatives.

“As we all know, the month of Ramadan entails many things, one of them is reflection: where were you before, where are you now and where do you want to be? I believe Nigeria more than ever before needs this type of reflection,” he said.

Imploring both Christians and Muslims to dedicate this time to praying for the country, the Speaker said Nigerians knew what the Tinubu administration had achieved within just two years.

He, therefore, claimed that, this period offered a moment for every Nigerian to reflect and pray for the country – prayers for the economy; prayers for improved security, prayers for the leaders and prayers for the citizens.

He assured the president that every member of the House of Representatives was in his support, noting that the policies of the government were

for the betterment of the people and Nigeria as a country. On behalf of the House, the Speaker donated the sum of Seven Hundred and Five Million Naira, which he said was a six-month fifty per cent deduction from their salaries to augment the humanitarian engagements of the president and to support vulnerable people in the country.

He spoke last night when President Bola Tinubu hosted the leadership and members of the House of Representatives to Iftar at the New Banquet Hall of the State House in Abuja.

Reflecting on the significance of Ramadan, which coincides with the Lenten season, the vice-president called for deep introspection and a reaffirmation of commitment to Nigeria’s unity.

Urges N’Assembly to shun division, partisanship House donates N705m representing 50% of members six months salaries to support govt’s humanitarian efforts Shettima hails Caribbean nation’s role in African liberation movements

Speaking on behalf of the President, he further assured Nigerians that the government’s economic policies were yielding results.

“The economy has turned the corner, we are now on the path to sustained economic growth, and with perseverance, we will create a Nigeria where every citizen can thrive,” he said.

Commending the President Bola Tinubu leadership, he described him as a man of vision and inclusivity.

“In President Bola Tinubu, you have not just a leader you can trust, but a leader, who trusts you. He sees you as stewards of our democracy, as voices of the people, and as partners in our shared aspiration to build a better Nigeria,” he said.

Shettima urged the lawmakers to embrace their responsibility with

“This sacred month of reflection and renewal reminds us to choose stability over strife, collaboration over conflict, and dialogue over discord. What binds us as a nation is far greater than what divides us,” Shettima said.

Shettima also lauded the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, and the House leadership for fostering harmony within the legislature.

“There can be no development without peace, and there can be no peace without development. The unity within the House is a testament to our collective resolve to move Nigeria forward,” he said.

Shettima urged the leaders to govern with empathy, fairness, and justice, reminding them that their positions were a sacred trust of the Nigerian people.

“Leadership is not about personal gain; it is about service. It is a burden vested in us by God, tested by history,

Nigeria, Cuba Strengthen Economic Ties, Pledge Deeper Diplomatic Cooperation

Deji Elumoye and Michael Olugbode in Abuja

Nigeria and Cuba have taken a bold move to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties, with a renewed focus on healthcare, education and trade.

This was as both nations marked 50 years of diplomatic relations which formally started in 1974, with Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima, describing Cuba as “a sacred land where every progressive will identify with.”

Shettima spoke yesterday at the State House in Abuja, when he received the Cuban Foreign Minister, Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, and Cuban Ambassador to Nigeria, Miriam Morales Palmero.

He explained: “Cuba, though

to Global Fleet

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, yesterday lamented that Nigeria contribution to the global fleet was below two per cent and as such the country’s dependency on imports from other parts of the world makes Revised Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Reduction to near-zero emissions for the shipping sector.

He described this as an important debate that Nigeria must not shy away from. This was even as he noted that the federal government was championing the course of shipping decarbonisation as means to reduce emissions in the

African maritime industry to improve the competitiveness of the continent’s shipping routes.

Oyetola, while declaring open “Africa Strategic Summit on Shipping Decarbonisation,” in Abuja, said the global shipping industry was at a pivotal juncture as the International Maritime Organisation (IMQ) and was set to finalise and adopt the policy framework on the Revised Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Reduction Strategy and the Basket of Midterm Measures by this autumn. He said the progression of negotiations and research work done so far suggested that Africa along with most developing countries would be mostly impacted due to the

transport cost increase as result of the energy transition to near-zero and zero emissions for shipping sector.

According to him, “As a coastal continent with 38 coastal nations, we stand a chance to explore opportunities that this energy transition offers our region by engaging the Global North to partner with Africa to utilise the need to develop our ports as a launch pad for catalysing the industrialisation of Africa.

“We must carefully develop meaningful discussions and partnership that does not set us back to extractive partnerships but a respectful approach to building our region and strengthening our position in the world.

located in South America, has its heartbeat in Africa. Your country played a crucial role in Africa’s liberation movements, standing with us during the anti-apartheid struggles in Southern Africa. “We are mightily proud of you because you represent resilience, unity, and selfless leadership.”

The Vice President noted that there were cultural and ancestral ties between Nigeria and Cuba, saying a significant percentage of Cuba’s population has African roots, many of whom trace their lineage to Nigeria.

His words: “About 70 percent of Cuban Africans are from Nigeria. For us, Cuba is a sacred land where every progressive African identifies with”.

He assured the Cuban delegation that Nigeria would continue to honour its commitments and seek ways to bolster partnerships, particularly in healthcare and vaccine development.

“Our hearts and souls are with you. No matter how long the night is, it

The Chairman of the Board at Flutterwave Technology Solutions Limited, Africa’s leading payment technology company, Mr. Dipo Fatokun, shared insights on the future of Africa’s financial ecosystem at Harvard Business School.

His panel discussion, titled, “Building Robust Pan-African Financial Systems,” focused on the innovations and strategies needed to drive a more interconnected, efficient, secure, and inclusive financial landscape across the continent.

will give way to the light of the dawn. We will support you in whatever way we can, especially in strengthening our partnership in healthcare and vaccination programmes,” Shettima stated.

Earlier, the Cuban Foreign Minister, Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, outlined the enduring friendship between Nigeria and Cuba with events marking the milestone 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

“We are commemorating 50 years of diplomatic relations between Cuba and Nigeria. In the formation of our nations, our nationality, and culture, there is an important African and Nigerian descent.

“The contributions made by African persons in Cuba to our development are immense.

“Without the support of Africans and Nigeria from the very beginning of the Cuban revolution, we could hardly have survived. We shared common goals in our collective struggle

Fatokun, according to a statement, highlighted the transformative potential of emerging technologies like blockchain in improving payments in Africa.

He cited an example from Nigeria, “The Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) which is the central switch is collaborating with a local company to integrate blockchain technology. This means we can eliminate, not reduce, payment failures.”

“Imagine a scenario when your card payment fails at a fuel station

against colonialism, apartheid, and racism,” he said.

Also speaking, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, emphasised the significance of the longstanding relationship and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deeper collaboration.

“He (Foreign Minister Parrilla) has visited us to strengthen the relationship between both countries, which has existed since 1974. We stood side-byside with each other during the years of struggle to liberate African states from oppressive regimes.

“Today, we signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to further strengthen bilateral and multilateral ties. We discussed numerous subjects of mutual interest, including economic relations, tourism, science and technology, and many more,” Tuggar said. Tuggar, earlier explained that the MoU bothered on strengthening relations, especially in the area of trade, medicine and science and technology.

after you filled your car, instead of waiting for manual reversal, the system automatically corrects in real time, increasing payment reliability.

“When digital payments work seamlessly, adoption will naturally increase,” Fatokun added.

In 2023, global losses from fraud reached $485.6 billion, according to NASDAQ. While fraud can’t be fully stopped, it’s crucial for fintech companies, regulators, and law enforcement to work together to reduce these risks.

Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; Vice President, Kashim Shettima; President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, during the breaking of the Ramadan fast with members of the House of Representatives at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday

PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI

Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

MULTICHOICE PRESS CONFERENCE FOR THE 11TH AMVCA...

L-R: Senior Brand Manager, Amstel Malta and Hi-Malt, Nigerian Breweries

Francis Obiajulu;

Africa Intelligence: Tinubu Has Picked Gilbert Chagoury

A new report by Africa Intelligence, a specialised publication that publishes exclusive information on the continent, has indicated that the contract for renovation of Lagos ports has been awarded to ITB Nigeria, a company owned by the Lebanese-Nigerian, Gilbert Chagoury.

According to the report, the close associate of President Bola Tinubu is set to embark on another major new project in the African

for $700m

megalopolis, after it was awarded the “controversial” Lagos-Calabar coastal highway.

Tracking the process leading to the handing over of the contract, Africa Intelligence stated that there had been very little doubt in recent weeks in Lagos about which firm would bag the $700 million contract to renovate the city’s two main ports, Tin Can and Apapa. It stated that the Nigerian government, in a meeting in early February with the Federal Executive Council (FEC), duly chose Chagoury Group,

Lagos Ports Renovation Project

and its subsidiary ITB Nigeria, headed by Ramzi Chidiac.

“Despite the group’s lack of experience in the port sector, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who had the final say on the matter, decided to once again place his trust in his ‘confidant’, the Lebanese-Nigerian billionaire Gilbert Chagoury,” the report added. Africa Intelligence said ITB Nigeria did not respond to its request for comment.

The contract for the expansive port project now appears to be taking the form of a similar one given to Hitech

Construction Company Ltd., owned by Gilbert Chagoury. The LagosCalabar Coastal Highway, which the Chagoury group is handling, is a significant infrastructure project aimed at enhancing connectivity along Nigeria’s southern corridor. Spanning approximately 700 kilometres, the highway will traverse several states, including Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River, culminating in Calabar. The selection process for the road has been a topic of discussion since its award.

Bamidele: Beneficiaries of Subsidies Ganged up against Tinubu’s Government at Inception

Says 2025 budget will largely solve Nigeria’s problem

The Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele yesterday explained how key beneficiaries of fuel subsidies made governance difficult for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the first eighteenth month of his administration.

Bamidele, currently representing Ekiti Central in the Senate, also expressed confidence that the 2025 Appropriation Act would largely solve the country’s socio-economic challenges not only at the national level, but also at the sub-national level. He made this clarification in a statement by his Directorate of Media and Public Affairs, highlighting the imperatives of fuel subsidy removal at the inception of the Tinubu administration.

He specifically explained the socio-economic and political

predicament that confronted the president, describing how the economic predators fought and undermined his administration because he removed the fuel subsidy in the overriding public interest.

Bamidele said: “I am convinced that the president did the right thing by removing the fuel subsidy, for which the 9th National Assembly made provision till May 2023. But the people that made governance difficult for President Tinubu were those benefiting from fuel subsidies.

“It was not common men and women of this country who were benefiting from the fuel subsidy. It was not. It was members of the cabal who had access to the fuel subsidy. They are the ones taking away this privilege all in the name and on behalf of masses. And the

masses did not benefit from it.

“I was part of the 9th National Assembly. At that time, we had agreed with the executive arm that the fuel subsidy should be removed because it was no longer in the overriding interest of the country.

“The Tinubu administration acted based on the policy direction the National Assembly approved before his inauguration on May 29, 2023.

“In the 2023 budget, the National Assembly only made provision for fuel subsidy till May 2023. Whether President Tinubu was removed at his inauguration or not, there was no longer funding for subsidy because we did not make provision for it beyond May 2023.

“He did not say he was going to remove the fuel subsidy. He simply said fuel subsidy was gone simply because the National Assembly only

Tinubu Appoints Bishop Kukah As Pro-Chancellor of Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has appointed the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Bishop Matthew Kukah, as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, Kaduna State. Additionally, the President, according to a release issued on Monday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, appointed principal officers for the university. They include Prof. Qurix Williams

Barnabas as Vice Chancellor, Sanusi Gambo Adamu, Registrar; Ibrahim Dalhat, Bursar, and Prof. Daniel Abubakar as university Librarian.

President Tinubu also approved the appointment of Mr Thomas Etuh, representing the North Central, Chief Fabian Nwaora (South East), Prof Femi Taiwo (South West) and Zarah Bukar (North East) as members of the university’s Governing Council. All the appointees were carefully selected based on their distinguished careers, leadership experience, and dedication to advancing education

in Nigeria.

The President implored the new appointees to use their collective expertise to position the university as a hub for academic excellence and research, aligning with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

President Tinubu also urged the newly appointed officers to provide visionary leadership and lay a solid foundation for the university’s growth as it prepares to admit its first cohort of students in September, 2025.

made provision for it till May 2023. Even if he did not say it, the fuel subsidy would have gone in two days after his inauguration.”

Bamidele noted that if the National Assembly made provision for subsidy, it would definitely deny all the sib-national governments from receiving adequate statutory transfers from the Federation Accounts to run their administration.

He further noted that if the fuel subsidy was retained, it would have automatically plunged the country into an intractable fiscal crisis, possibly another economic meltdown because the country no longer had the capacity to fund the subsidy programme again.

But the federal government clarified that Hitech was chosen to handle the road project costing over N15 trillion, due to its expertise in concrete paving—a crucial requirement for the project, especially in areas with high water tables.

Minister of Works, David Umahi, recently highlighted that Hitech’s prior experience, notably the successful reconstruction of the Oworonshoki-Apapa Road, demonstrated its capability in concrete road construction.

Despite all the pushback on the Lagos-Calabar project, the government has insisted that the procurement process adhered to Nigerian laws, employing methods such as restrictive procurement, selective/competitive bidding, and open bidding.

However, the road infrastructure project continues to face criticism from various quarters. Concerns have been raised about the transparency of the contract award and the potential environmental and social impacts of the highway’s construction.

But the new report stated that the work, which the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) said would begin in the second quarter of 2025, will be financed by a loan from Nigeria’s Citibank and backed by UK Export Finance, Britain’s official export credit agency.

In addition, Afreximbank had offered its services, and APM Terminals, a subsidiary of the Danish maritime giant, Maersk, and operator of the port of Apapa, offered an investment of $500 million in January 2024.

The offer is still on the table of NPA, which has been headed since July by Abubakar Dantsoho, the

Africa Intelligence report added, Chagoury is also seeking to impose Dubai-based DP World as a new port operator in Lagos. Tinubu met with the firm’s boss, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, in Abuja on February 26, along with Chagoury and Marine and Blue Economy Minister Adegboyega Oyetola, who is a cousin of the president.

Africa Intelligence said DP World had in recent months been mulling boosting its presence in Nigeria, and Lagos, in particular, stating that Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima met with bin Sulayem last September on the side-lines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

DP World told Africa Intelligence in October that they were “considering investment in ports and infrastructure development opportunities” and “should a suitable opportunity arise in Nigeria” they “will consider it”.

The report added, “The situation is being monitored by the various operators already present in Lagos, such as APM Terminals, whose concession for Apapa will end in 2031, and by those present in the port of Tin Can, where some concessions are already available.

“The two sites account for most of Lagos’s port activity, with the rest handled by Lekki port, operated by CMA Terminals, a subsidiary of France’s CMA CGM, which is owned by Rodolphe Saadé. Thanks to a clause in his contract with the NPA, Saadé has ensured that no new port that can receive containers coming directly from abroad will be built before December 2028.”

OECD Report: Global GDP Growth to Drop Marginally from 3.2% in 2024 to 3.1% in 2025

Oluchi Chibuzor

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in its Economic Outlook report released yesterday revealed that global gross domestic product (GDP) growth would moderate from 3.2 percent in 2024 to 3.1 percent in 2025

This was as higher trade barriers in several G20 economies and increased policy uncertainty weigh on investment and household spending.

This was disclosed in the OECD interim Report March 2025, with the theme, ‘Steering Through Uncertainty.’

It noted that even though the global economy remained resilient

in 2024, some signs of weakness were appearing against a backdrop of slower growth, lingering inflation, and an uncertain policy environment.

“The global economy remained resilient in 2024, expanding at a solid annualised pace of 3.2 percent through the second half of the year.

However, recent activity indicators point to a softening of global growth prospects.

“Business and consumer sentiment have weakened in some countries. Inflationary pressures continue to linger in many economies. At the same time, policy uncertainty has been high and significant risks remain.

“Further fragmentation of the global economy is a key concern.

Higher-than-expected inflation would prompt more restrictive monetary policy and could give rise to disruptive repricing in financial markets. “On the upside, agreements that lower tariffs from current levels could result in stronger growth,” the report highlighted.

According to the report, annual real GDP growth in the United States was projected to slow from its very strong recent pace, to 2.2 percent in 2025 and 1.6 percent in 2026, while Euro area real GDP growth is projected to be 1.0 percent in 2025 and 1.2 percent in 2026, as heightened uncertainty keeps growth subdued, as growth in China is projected to slow from 4.8 percent this year to 4.4 percent in 2026.

PLC,

Managing Director, Dentsu Aegis, Marian Ogaziechi; Executive Head of Content and Channels, West Africa, MultiChoice, Dr Busola Tejumola; Executive Head, DStv Media Sales, MultiChoice, Doris Ohanugo; Communication Manager, PR and Digital, Nigerian Breweries PLC, Stephanie Mordi; and Host of the AMVCA, IK Osakioduwa, at the MultiChoice Press Conference for the 11th AMVCA held in Lagos… recently

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

MBAH MARKS 53RD BIRTHDAY ANNIVERSARY...

Ugwuanyi, as the governor cuts his 53rd anniversary cake during a dinner organised in his honour at the Government

7 Years After Signing MoU, Nigeria-Brazil

$1.1bn

Green Imperative Project Kicks Off

Shettima: President poised to enhance nation’s food security, agric productivity

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

As part of measures to ensure food security in the country, Nigeria and Brazil on Monday signed the commercial phase of the $1.1 billion Green Imperative Project (GIP) to boost agriculture productivity and enhance private-sector investment in Nigeria.

GIP, the largest agricultural project in Africa which priotises the development of sustainable, low-carbon agriculture, aims to develop structural conditions to boost food production in Nigeria in an efficient and competitive manner.

The MoU for the $1.1 billion GIP 1 was signed in 2018, while the $4.3 billion phase 2 of the project and the $2.5 billion JBS were signed in Brazil during President Bola Tinubu’s visit to that country last year.

This is just as Vice President Kashim Shettima described the signing of the commercial phase of the GIP 1 as part of ongoing efforts by the administration of President Tinubu to enhance food security in the country.

Speaking during the signing of the commercial phase of the GIP 1 at the State House, Abuja, Shettima

said the GIP will leverage on strategic opportunities to drive the nation’s economic growth and boost investor confidence.

According to him: “As this administration addresses the food security challenges we are facing and dovetails the 8-point agenda of President Bola Tinubu, it is imperative for us to synergise and use existing initiatives such as the GIP for the purpose of policy continuity, for the purpose of utilising or leveraging on strategic opportunities to drive our economic growth and also to enhance investor confidence.”

The Vice President noted that while the GIP aligns with all the policies and programmes of the Tinubu administration, it will link small-scale farmers with all the agricultural value chains in the country.

He noted: “We have been battling with low agricultural productivity for decades, and as I have always said, entrepreneurial capitalism is embedded in the very psyche of the average Nigerian, but what our people are lacking is the wherewithal to be placed on the first ladder of development.

“This GIP is a wonderful oppor-

Eno: No Dispute Between Akwa Ibom, Cross River on 76 Oil Wells

Okon Bassey in Uyo

Akwa Ibom State Government has emphasised that it has no dispute with Cross River State over the ownership of the 76 oil wells in the State.

Akwa lbom State Governor, Umo Eno, said this at the weekend, during the monthly prayer meeting held at the Government House Chapel, Uyo.

Eno stressed that the Supreme Court had twice ruled in favor of Akwa Ibom State, declaring Cross River a non-littoral State.

He urged citizens of the State not to engage in a matter that had been legally settled.

Eno also harped on the importance of respecting and honouring past and present leaders of the State for their contributions to the State’s development.

He condemned external influences attempting to discredit Akwa Ibom leaders without factual evidence.

“It is difficult to understand how individuals who are not from Akwa Ibom seek to run down our leaders

on baseless allegations.

“As Governor, I can confidently say that I have seen no evidence supporting such false accusations against our past leaders,” he added.

The Governor encouraged citizens to continue praying for the State, the President, and the nation, emphasising the need for divine guidance in governance.

He also urged contractors and business owners to take advantage of the newly launched state procurement portal, which provides transparent access to government contracts.

Ene announced that over 400 jobs are currently available through the portal and encouraged qualified individuals to register.

“We have several projects, including the construction of the Aviation Village, Commissioners’ Quarters, Legislators’ Quarters, and Judges’ Quarters.

“We will not award multiple projects to one person. These contracts will be given to qualified Akwa Ibom people who are duly registered on the portal.”

tunity because it seamlessly aligns with all the policies and programmes of this government. It’s a private sector driven initiative that targets the small-scale farmer and links him up with all the agricultural value chains.

“Today, to me, is a highpoint of our leadership in this country. Yes, we have started seven years behind but the journey of a thousand miles begins with a step. 2025 as rightly captured by His Excellency, the Brazilian Ambassador to Nigeria, is a milestone year in our journey towards food security and diversification of our nation’s economy.”

Shettima gave credit to the Ministers of Agriculture, Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Justice, Foreign Affairs, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, among others, for the success of the project.

In his remarks, the Ambassador

of Brazil to Nigeria, Carlos Garcete said it is a great honour for Brazil to associate with the Green Imperative Project (GIP), saying “over the past seven years, there has been negotiation with the Nigerian government with a view to obtaining the necessary funds from private and regional development banks to finance this ambitious project, which is worth approximately $1.1billion dollars.”

He noted that the project will allow for the importation of agricultural equipment such as tractors, spare parts and assembling of machines will be done in Nigeria with the Nigerian labour, stressing that “in the event of breakdown of any tractor, it will be possible to carry out any repairs here in Nigeria by the personnel who will be trained by GIP.”

On behalf the Brazilian government, Mr. Garcete thanked President Bola Tinubu for bringing the long

negotiation to a fruitful conclusion.

In his goodwill message, Governor of Jigawa State, Alhaji Umar Namadi, expressed delight over the signing of the agreement noting that “for us at the sub-national, it is a very important day for us because agriculture plays important role in the economy of the country.”

He also noted that the signing of the agreement underscores the high level commitment of the Tinubu Administration in improving and transforming agriculture in Nigeria.

“This commitment which is demonstrated from the highest level from the President to the Vice President, I think those of us at the subnational have nothing to do except to toe the line because this is our project,” he stated.

Also speaking, Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, said Benue State, being the food basket of the nation is the happiest state

among the subnationals to witness the signing of the agreement. Assuring that the state government will give full support to the success of the project, he said, “Benue State does not only hold the basket but the food and its surpluses for the nation.”

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, who also witnessed the signing of the agreement, said the exercise is a good example of the South-South Cooperation between Nigeria and Brazil, adding that “the Brazilian Minister of Foreign Affairs was in Nigeria last week where he had bilateral meeting with the Nigerian President.”

According to him, both countries are very passionate about the project, having seen what Brazil has achieved and how it turned a barren savannah into one of the prolific agriculture site in the world today.

KPMG, Others to Drive Private Sector-led Investment Initiative to Boost Food Security

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

The federal government has announced a private sector-led Large-Scale Agribusiness Financing Programme, designed to drive food security through large-scale investment in industrial agriculture in the country.

The investment fund model designed to mobilise large-scale financing for the production and processing of critical crops, including oil palm, rice, maize,

cassava, sugar, and soybean was unveiled at a high-level meeting between the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun and the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), Dr. Armstrong Takang, in Abuja.

A statement issued last night by the Director, Information and Public Relations, Mr. Mohammed Manga disclosed that during the meeting,

KPMG and private sector operators outlined an investment fund model designed to mobilise largescale financing for the production and processing of critical crops, including oil palm, rice, maize, cassava, sugar, and soybean.

The statement read: “In a groundbreaking move, the private sector has unveiled a pioneering investment fund to revolutionize Nigeria’s agricultural landscape and drive food security.

“This initiative takes the form

President’s Son Pays Medical Bills of Some Nigerians to Mark Ramadan

Daji Sani in Yola

The son of President Bola Tinubu, Mr. Seyi Tinubu, has paid the medical bills of some Nigerians to mark the Ramadan fast, in demonstration of the virtues of togetherness and unity

While in Adamawa State, Seyi took time to extend philanthropic gestures, including a visit to the Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital, Yola, where he toured some wards and settled the bills of patients.

He was also at a number of

mosques and orphanage homes, where he gave out food items and other valuables

Seyi told the youth drawn from across Adamawa State that the national students loan scheme and some other youth-centred programmes of the federal government were products of his father’s passion for the good of young people

Seyi, who was in Yola late in the evening of Sunday, March 16, when he observed the day’s breaking of Ramadan fast with some youths, stressed that his father wanted

Nigerian children to thrive.

He said, “This is the only president that conceived students’ loan programme, the only president that created platform for young people to thrive, the only president who creates economy that benefits everybody.”

Seyi added that his father was the sort of president who did not seek to enrich his pockets but strove always to reposition the country for national prosperity.

He explained that he was in Yola for iftar (Ramadan fast-breaking meal) and to generally mix with his peers.

of a private sector-led Large-Scale Agribusiness Financing Programme, presented to the Federal Government as a collaborative effort to drive food sovereignty through large-scale investment in industrial agriculture.

“At a high-level meeting with the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, and the CEO of Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), Dr Armstrong Takang, held in his office in Abuja, KPMG and private sector operators outlined an investment fund model designed to mobilise large-scale financing for the production and processing of critical crops, including oil palm, rice, maize, cassava, sugar, and soybean.

“The proposal aligns with the administration’s vision to reduce Nigeria’s £3 billion annual food import bill by expanding mechanised farming, strengthening local refining capacity, and enhancing food security. It emphasises private sector participation, transparency, and scalability.

“HM Edun and Dr Takang welcomed the initiative, reaffirming the government’s commitment to working with the private sector to unlock investment and drive sustainable agricultural transformation.

L-R: Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai; former Governor of Enugu State, Barr. Sullivan Chime; celebrant and Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah; and former Governor of Enugu State, Hon. Ifeanyi

House, Enugu

NLC Replies Obasanjo, Says His Attack on Labour Uncharitable

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has dismissed as false and uncharitable allegations of compromise and poor negotiating skills levelled against leadership of the labour unions by former president Olusegun Obasanjo

While acknowledging the fact that the N70,000 new minimum wage fell short of expectations and does not reflect reality of the cost of living, the NLC said the federal government and employers of labour under auspices of the Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA) should be blamed for their role in foisting the poor wage on the workers.

The NLC was reacting to criticism contained in Obasanjo’s recent book accusing the leadership of labour unions of failing to negotiate appropriate national minimum wage for Nigerian workers. Regarding the minimum wage, the

attractive investment destinations in Nigeria, but alleged that the former administration of Senator Ibikunle Amosun demolished his factory twice before he decided to leave the state.

But in response to the allegation, yesterday, Amosun told Dangote that he was not among the class of people he could compromise, bully, or blackmail.

Speaking during the visit, Dangote said, “I would especially like to commend, in a special way, my good friend and brother, Your Excellency, the governor of Ogun State, for your vision and deliberate policies that focus on attracting enterprises through immense support for the private sector, which is now attracting investors.

“Our factory at Itori was pulled down twice. When we started the second time, they not only demolished

FINALLY,

NLC said Obasanjo only rehashed the argument of organised labour that it did not even cover transportation costs for some workers, let alone food, housing, and family upkeep.

A statement signed by the NLC President, Joe Ajaero, noted that contrary to Obasanjo’s assertion that workers have become victims of those meant to protect their interests, the leadership of organised labour made strident efforts to negotiate a reasonable wage for the workers despite the arm twisting tactics deployed by the federal government.

He said: “We are delighted to have an ally in a personality as distinguished as our former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo. In his latest book, ‘Nigeria: Past and Future,’ Chief Olusegun Obasanjo rehashed our argument when he writes inter alia, “The minimum wage does not even cover transportation costs for some workers, let alone food, housing, and

the factory, but also the fence, so we left. But right now, because of His Excellency, our governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, we are back. When you visit the factory, you will be surprised at what we have done.

“We had earlier abandoned our vision of investing in the Olokola Free Trade Zone (OKFTZ), but because of your policies and investor-friendly environment, I want to say we are back and will work with the state government to return to Olokola, and plans are underway to construct the largest port in the country.”

Giving an update on the company’s ongoing projects in the state, Dangote said two new lines with a capacity of six million metric tons of cement per annum had been constructed at Itori, while the 12 million metric tons per annum cement plant was

family upkeep.”

“It was why we asked for N610,000, which we had described as the barest acceptable minimum complete with a breakdown.

“Government and NECA for inexplicable reasons made a counter offer of N50,000 without an explanation as to how much would go to what.

“This inevitably led to a stalemate in negotiations and ultimately, a strike action which was suspended only after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu took over negotiations and made the offer of N70,000, a few thousands above the recommended figure by the Minimum Wage Committee.”

Ajaero said Tinubu accepted to pay the N250,000 which was the last threshold of Labour but subject to raising the pump price of petrol to N2,500 or more per litre.

He said torn between foisting additional hardship on the citizenry and taking the N70,000, the leadership of

at Ibeshe.

Upon completion, Dangoted assured that the total capacity of the company’s cement plants in the state would be in the neighbourhood of 18 million metric tons per annum, making it the highest cement-producing state or region in Africa.

“With the contributions of other cement producers in the state, Ogun remains far ahead of other countries across Africa in terms of cement production,” he said.

Dangote Cement, according to him, was the leading cement producer in Africa with a capacity of 52 million metric tons per annum across the African continent.

He added that 70 per cent of the production was carried out in Nigeria, with the Obajana plant in Kogi State accounting for 16.25 million metric

labour opted for the latter even when they knew N70,000 was inadequate just to minimise the pain.

However, Ajaero said there were some “incentives” meant to accompany the N70,000.

For instance, he explained that the minimum wage cycle was reduced from five to three years, meaning that negotiations for a new minimum wage could begin as early as 2026.

Other incentives included CNG buses for workers; free conversion kits for workers’ vehicles etc.

“Thus, this is contrary to Chief Obasanjo’s assertion that workers have become victims of those meant to protect their interests.

“Of course, we do agree with Chief Obasanjo that: ‘Workers need more attention than they are getting. It is their right, and they have been denied it for too long.’

“However, it is important to point out that it is malevolent governments

tons per annum, the largest in Africa.

He said investment in the manufacturing of the product had made Nigeria self-sufficient in cement, just as the country was now self-sufficient in fertiliser, with the surplus going to the export market, and earning foreign exchange.

Dangote stated that the company’s target was to make Nigeria self- sufficient in whatever it consumed.

He said his company was currently meeting domestic demand for petrol, aviation fuel, and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) from its 650,000 barrels per day refinery at Ibeju-Lekki.

Dangote said Nigeria was a growing economy, hence the need for private companies to complement government efforts. He assured that his company would continue to demonstrate its belief in the country

and predatory employers that deny workers these rights and not union leaders.

“In every community, organisation or institution possibility does exist of bad eggs. It is the same with trade unions but it is no reason to cast aspersions on most unions as Chief Obasanjo has done. We do not know his motive,” he said

The NLC said a bit of soulsearching by Obasanjo would have made him understand that he was also culpable, right from causing the arrest and detention of union leaders to the killing of protesting workers.

“On our part here, our struggles with the government have been in the public domain, right from the unhealthy use of government institutions to hamstring us: from court injuctions to harassment by the police and other security services, and even to other hideous acts of intimidation and brutalisation of the

and its people by making investments targeted at transforming the economy.

He appreciated traditional rulers and the people of Itori for their support and partnership, which enabled the smooth and speedy take-off of the cement plant.

Dangote added that the encouragement from the people of Yewaland had fostered smooth operations, assuring of continued adherence to its Corporate Social Responsibilities to the host communities.

THISDAY learnt yesterday that polypropylene products from the 900,000 metric tonnes per annum Dangote Petrochemical Plant would officially be unveiled in early April 2025.

Polypropylene would be the latest from a variety of petroleum products being produced and sold

RIVERS STATE ASSEMBLY BEGINS IMPEACHMENT PROCESS AGAINST FUBARA, ORDU

of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and his oath of office.

“The Supreme Court in Suit No.: SC/CV/1174/2024 condemned his actions when it stated that the eighth respondent’s fear of impeachment by the House of Assembly is no justification for his attacks on the House of Assembly, the constitution, the government of Rivers State, and the rule of law.

“Political disagreements cannot justify these attacks and contempt for the rule of law by the governor of a state or any person. What the eighth respondent has done is to destroy the government because of fear of being impeached.”

Amaewhule asked the governor to reply the notice of the allegations made against him by 26 members of the house.

be investigated.” Amaewhule asked with the governor to be guided accordingly and accept his regards. Fubara, while denying allegation that he was frustrating a re-presentation of the 2025 appropriation bill, confirmed receipt of the impeachment letter.

But the governor called for a rethink by all parties to the political crisis in the state as the pro-Nyesom Wike lawmakers began the much-awaited impeachment process.

On the allegation of disobedience to the apex court’s judgement, claimed by Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Dr Enemi George, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Joe Johnson, said only a rethink would save Rivers State and its people.

personal and/or sectional interests.”

“Do you still arrest or beat up people after paying them to keep quiet? There is something amiss here. This ‘senior government official close to the President’ who made this statement should be questioned more closely.

DANGOTE TO BUILD 18M MTA CEMENT PLANT IN ITORI, LARGEST SEAPORT AT OLOKOLA IN OGUN STATE Continued

in Nigeria and many parts of the world by the Dangote-owned facility as the company continued to assert its leadership position in the global petroleum refining and supply business.

Abiodun described the day Dangote refinery’s ground-breaking was performed in Lagos as “the day of heartbreak for the sons and daughters of Ogun State as they watched helplessly on television”. He said it was an indication that the project had left Olokola.

Abiodun stated, “I want to thank you for coming back to Ogun State and also for your belief and trust in your country, Nigeria. I want to thank you for all that you have done, the number of people you have employed, and the impact you continue to make, not just in this state, but in Nigeria as a whole.

He stated, “I received a copy of the notice dated 14th day of March, 2025 of allegations of gross misconduct brought against you by 26 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, which is not less than one-third (1/3) of the membership of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

“Pursuant to Section 188 (1) and (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), I, Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule, DSSRS, Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, hereby forward to your Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara GSSRS, a copy of the said Notice of Allegation of Gross Misconduct received by me on the 14th day of March 2025, copy attached.

“You are requested to reply to the allegations made against you in the said Notice of Allegations of Gross Misconduct accordingly.

“In doing this, your attention is drawn to the provisions of Section 188 (3) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), which provides thus: within 14 days of the presentation of the notice to the Speaker of the House of Assembly (whether or not any statement made by holder of the office in reply to the allegation contained in the notice) the House of Assembly shall resolve by motion, without any debate whether or not the allegation shall

The governor spoke through the information commissioner.

Johnson accused the Assembly of embarking on a futile image laundering by wrongly claiming that Fubara was frustrating the re-presentation of the budget.

He said the governor, by all intents and purposes, was prepared, willing and ready to re-present the 2025 budget and carry out full implementation of all aspects of the bizarre and utterly controversial judgement of the apex court for the sake of peace.

Addressing journalists in Port Harcourt, Johnson said, “Should this opportunity to pull the state from the precipice fail, the people and residents of the state, without exception, are bound to suffer avoidable calamities of economic, social, and political upheavals that might sink us deeper into unimaginable crises.”

Johnson alleged that members of the Assembly had by their actions refused to allow the governor to fully implement the judgement of the Supreme Court on the long-drawn political and legal battle that had lingered since after the ill-fated attempt to impeach him on October 30, 2023.

He stated, “Right from when this unjustified onslaught against Governor Fubara started, the gentleman has never left anyone in doubt about his unwavering commitment to peace and resolute determination to put Rivers people first over and above

Listing the steps taken by the governor so far, the government’s spokesman said, “A few days after the Friday, February 28, 2025 judgement of the apex court on the consolidated cases touching on the seizure of federation revenue allocation due the state, annulment of the credible, free, fair and peaceful local government elections of Saturday, October 5, 2024, re-presentation of the 2025 budget to the state House of Assembly, and the most contentious defection issue (which was never before the apex court, but surprisingly vaguely touched by the learned jurists of the five-man panel), Governor Fubara has never left anyone in doubt about his preparedness not only to obey, but fully implement the Supreme Court judgement, no matter the unfortunate and unfavourable outcome.”

The commissioner listed the actions from state-wide broadcast declaring his intention to obey the court orders, the order dissolving the 23 elected local councils, the order on the Rivers State Local Electoral Commission (RSIEC) to commence fresh elections, the announcement of new election date with steps and processes.

He stated, “At that stakeholders meeting, the electoral umpire set the ball rolling for conduct of a fresh LGAs elections by releasing the elections timetable and elections guidelines, fixing August 9, 2025 for the exercise. This is in full compliance of the Supreme Court judgement ordering a fresh election into the third tier of government.”

He said the contribution of the RSHA was to go into a frenzy, issuing a 48-hour ultimatum to the State Chief Executive to re-represent the 2025 budget.

“But observers who are knowledgeable on legislative procedures saw this RSHA action as an aberration and abuse of legislative duties and privileges.

“While Rivers people were yet to digest the unfolding drama, the Amaewhule-led house issued another 48-hour ultimatum to the Chairman of RSIEC, the highly respected retired Justice, Adolphus Enebeli, who was appointed RSIEC

Chairman by the former governor of the state and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike.

“They followed this bizarre action up with the issuance of a warrant of arrest of the gentleman and Commissioners of RSIEC. Not done with that, they declared the appointment of 19 Commissioners by Governor Fubara as illegal, prompting the affected Commissioners to drag Amaewhule and his colleagues to court.

“As if they are bent on fighting at all fronts, these lawmakers who should be settling to the business of law-making for the good governance of Rivers State, accused the Chief Judge of Rivers State, Simeon Chibuzor Amadi, of age falsification, even inviting the operatives of the DSS to investigate him instead of reporting him to the Nigerian Judicial Council (NJC) the only authorised body responsible for investigation and discipline of judicial officers across the federation.”

The governor frowned on the action of the lawmakers, who reported the same chief judge they screened now

to the security agencies instead of the Judicial Service Commission.

The governor said he still took further actions for peace to reign by writing personally to the lawmakers to give him a date to meet. He also said he had to use substituted service (newspaper publication) when the lawmakers continued to deny seeing the letters.

The governor recalled how he went to the House of Assembly complex to present the budget thinking the lawmakers had had a rethink but was locked out.

“It is, thus, worrisome to hear the lawmakers alleging that Governor Fubara did not communicate properly, falsely claiming that his letter to them was only read on social media! Haba!!”

He said the governor was acting in good faith notwithstanding that false narratives were being peddled by the same people frustrating compliance with the judgement of court.

“To the chagrin of all right thinking persons, the Assembly members announced that it was proceeding on vacation and legislative activities adjourned sine die,” he said.

“The way you selflessly continue to promote this country all over the world, we can’t thank you enough. Your life and story continue to be an inspiring narrative for all young men. You have excelled in everywhere you touch; you have the Midas touch.

“These are, indeed, giant strides. For us in Ogun State, we welcome your return to the state. Today is a historic day, March 17, 2025, the same March when you did the ground-breaking in Lagos for the refinery, and you are now coming back in March to Ogun State.

“Not only have you chosen to complete Itori, but you have also chosen to come back and develop the biggest port in Nigeria. For this, I thank you.”

Amosun: Dangote Can’t Bully, Blackmail Compromise Me

Meanwhile, Amosun, yesterday, told the chairman of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, that he was not and would never be among the class of people he could compromise, bully or blackmail.

INFLATION DECLINES TO 23.18% AMID LOWER FOOD, ENERGY PRICES

cornmeal, cassava, bambara beans (dried), etc.”

Core inflation, which excludes the prices of volatile agricultural produces and energy, also declined by 2.12 per cent to 23.01 per cent, year-on-year in February 2025, compared to the 25.13 per cent in February 2024.

On a month-on-month basis, the core index stood at 2.52 per cent in February while the average 12-month annual inflation rate was 25.33 per cent for the 12 months ending February 2025, higher than 21.72 per cent in February 2024.

The statistical agency further noted that food and non-alcoholic beverages; restaurants and accommodation services; and transport contributed 9.28 per cent, 2.99 per cent and 2.47 per cent, respectfully, to inflation.

Other contributors were housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels, which accounted for 1.95 per cent of inflationary concerns.

Education services contributed 1.44 per cent, health 1.40 per cent, clothing and footwear 1.17 per cent, information and communication 0.76 per cent, and personal care, social protection, and miscellaneous goods and services 0.76 per cent.

There were also furnishing, household equipment, and routine household maintenance 0.69 per cent; insurance and financial services 0.11 per cent; and alcoholic beverages, tobacco, recreation, sport, and culture, sport, and culture 0.07 per cent.

Year-on-year, in February 2025, urban inflation declined to 25.15 per cent, compared to 33.66 per cent in February 2024. On a month-onmonth basis, the urban index stood at 2.40 per cent.

Similarly, rural inflation dropped to 19.89 per cent year-on-year, from 29.99 per cent in February 2024. Month-on-month, the rural index stood at 1.16 per cent in the review month.

At state level, headline inflation

was highest in Edo (33.59 per cent), Enugu (30.72 per cent), and Sokoto (30.19 per cent), while Kaduna (15.45 per cent), Akwa Ibom (15.53 per cent), and Plateau (15.74 per cent) recorded the lowest year-on-year rise. Month-on-month, however, inflation was highest in Sokoto (11.98 per cent), Kogi (11.38 per cent), and Edo (8.87 per cent), while Kaduna (-8.83 per cent), Ondo (-4.78 per cent) and Plateau (-3.73 per cent) recorded the lowest rise.

Year-on-year, the food index was highest in Sokoto (38.34 per cent), Edo (35.08 per cent), Nasarawa (33.53 per cent), while Adamawa (12.18 per cent), Ondo (13.66 per cent), and Oyo (15.55 per cent) recorded the slowest increase.

Month-on-month, food inflation was highest in Sokoto (18.83 per cent), Nasarawa (15.32 per cent), and Kogi (11.65 per cent), while Ondo (-9.81 per cent), Kaduna (-8.91 per cent), and Oyo (-6.42 per cent) recorded decline.

leadership of the Congress.

Obasanjo

AWARD CEREMONY...

FAO Warns Member Countries Against H5N1 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza

Urges countries to strengthen outbreak response, enhance surveillance, reporting for poultry sector FAO, WOAH launch 10-year plan to combat high pathogenicity avian influenza

Oluchi Chibuzor

Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), a specialised agency of the United Nations focused on leading global efforts to fight hunger and improve food security, warned member countries about the danger of neglecting the spread of H5N1

highly pathogenic avian influenza, and called for action.

FAO stressed that timely action could avert the loss of hundreds of millions of poultry crucial for food security, nutrition and affordability of poultry products. The agency, in a statement released yesterday, said the warning came at

the end of a briefing with member countries in Rome.

FAO’s Deputy Director-General, Godfrey Magwenzi, described the spread of the disease as unprecedented, stressing that the complex challenges posed by the influenza is how to protect millions of people that depend on poultry for meat and eggs.

Magwenzi said, “The spread of the disease is unprecedented leading to serious impacts on food security and food supply in countries, including loss of valuable nutrition, rural jobs and income, shocks to local economies, and of course increasing costs to consumers.

“Among the complex challenges

CAN: Sani Has Given Christians Hope, Sense of Belonging in Kaduna

John Shiklam in Kaduna Kaduna State Chapter of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) says the Governor Uba Sani administration has given hope and sense of belonging to Christians in the state. State chairman of CAN, Caleb Maaji, stated this on Sunday, when the governor hosted the CAN leadership in the state to Iftar dinner at Government House, Kaduna.

Maaji said Sani’s style of governance was a departure from the previous administration.

He said Christians will continue to pray for the success of the governor because he had given them a feeling of acceptance and value.

He commended Sani for his

policy of inclusivity, which sought to carry all segments of the state along to contribute their quota in developing Kaduna.

The CAN chairman said, “The difference between this administration and the last one is clear.

“Governor Uba Sani’s mode of governance is a departure from the previous administration. This has given hope to Christians in Kaduna State.

“Your leadership has become our prayer point. We will never stop praying for you until your good becomes better, and your better, the best.”

Maaji recalled that in 2023, Sani attended the Christmas carol for the first time in Kaduna State, and he promised to attend subsequent ones.

He stated, “Last year (2024), he

fulfilled his promise as he attended Christmas Carol for the second time.

“You showed us love and even supported us. We thank you very much.”

Responding, Sani said his administration was striving to bring back the lost glory of Kaduna State.

He said upon assumption of office in 2023, he met with several stakeholders in an effort to find lasting solutions to ethno-religious crises and security challenges that were ravaging the state.

Sani said everyone was dissatisfied with what was happening, adding that after wide consultations, he concluded that governing with justice, fairness, and equity would help to solve the problem.

NSCDC Arrests 17 Vandals for Attacks on Pipelines in Niger Delta

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested 17 suspected vandals for their alleged role in the killing of an officer of the corps during an operation in the Niger Delta. A statement by the spokesman of the corps Afolabi Babawale on Monday read that the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad (CG’S SIS) in a tactically coordinated intelligencebased operations have arrested 17 suspects for the alleged role played in a renewed hostility attack on oil and gas installations in the Niger Delta region. They were accused of attacking NSCDC Operatives and Tantita Security Service base which led to the killing of Assistant Superintendent

Umar Aliyu with Service number 6363 and stealing of a speed boat belonging to Tantita Security Services.

Speaking on the arrest, the CG’S SIS Boss Commandant, Apollo Dandaura, hinted that a high-profile syndicates of 17 sea pirates were arrested by his men in synergy with other sister security agencies, following an intelligence-based coordinated operations at Tonogbe, Ekeremo Local Government Area of Bayelsa State on 6th March, 2025.

He said: “Earlier in January 21st, 2025, there was an attack against the Joint Task Force combining operatives of the NSCDC and Tantita Security Services at their Base in Torugbene II unit at Ekeremo LGA in Bayelsa State by suspected vandals and sea pirates who were heavily armed with sophisticated weapons”.

“Upon arrival at the base, they shot sporadically at the officers and

innocent civilians which led to the killing of ASC Umar Aliyu, his Ak 47 official riffle was carted away; Ebikame Seimeneyefa of Tantita Security was shot and Tantita speed boat was also hijacked and stolen”.

Dandaura disclosed that an intensive undercover and investigative operation was carried out in synergy with sister security agencies and Tantita, which led to successful tracking and arrest of the 17 suspects.

He said: “We mounted a round the clock and relentless onslaught against the suspects in collaboration with sister security agencies and the Tantita Security and succeeded in smashing the 17 deadly sea pirates led by a notorious vandal, kidnapper and armed robber called Ziakede Amatu, who hails from Norgbene community in Ekeremo, Bayelsa State and has been terrorizing the community and all neighbouring states.

He said he had been fair to every section of the state since he assumed office.

the governor stated, “My administration is executing developmental projects in all the 23 local governments in Kaduna State, not just in areas where I was voted. Road projects are ongoing, and some have been completed. I have built schools across the state.

“I have rehabilitated hospitals in all the three senatorial districts.”

avian influenza poses are how to protect poultry production systems to ensure food security and the nutrition of the millions who rely on poultry for meat and eggs.

“Additional challenges revolve around safeguarding biodiversity, livelihoods and safe trade, and preventing social impacts, most often borne by poultry farmers.”

FAO said the spread of H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza, bringing loss of hundreds of millions of poultry worldwide with increased spill-over into mammals, highlighted the urgent need for strengthened biosecurity, monitoring and surveillance, rapid-response mechanisms, and risk communication to safeguard the poultry sector and protect livelihoods and economies.

FAO Deputy Director-General, Beth Bechdol, emphasised that this was a transboundary issue requiring a global, coordinated response.

According to Bechdol, “FAO has been on the front lines of tackling this virus for over 20 years – supporting governments in detecting, preventing, and responding to outbreaks.”

To strengthen the efforts, the

statement said FAO and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) had launched a 10-year Global Strategy for the Prevention and Control of High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza.

Bechdol highlighted FAO’s role in combating avian influenza and other potential pandemic threats, underscoring the importance of strong veterinary and animal health system capacity in every country.

“A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. By working together, we can reduce the impact of avian influenza and protect both animal and human health – locally and globally,” she said.

FAO said members were told that the last four years had seen a major shift in avian influenza in terms of geographical spread, with increased spill-over to mammals and massive losses in domestic birds, impacting food security and driving up prices for poultry products.

“Large numbers of wild birds have succumbed to the disease, harming biodiversity with at least 300 newly affected wild bird species since 2021,” FAO said.

Oyebanji Hails President Tinubu’s Reforms for Boosting State Development

Receives Silverbird Man of the Year Award

Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti

Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his transformative reforms and policies, saying they have empowered the sub-national governments to implement impactful development projects.

Specifically, Governor Oyebanji said the President’s policies are the driving force behind his administration’s achievements and successes.

The governor stated this on Sunday at the Silverbird Man of the Year Awards, held at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos State, where he received the Man of the Year Award in recognition of his remarkable achievements and outstanding contributions to national development.

Governor Oyebanji, who was accompanied to the stage to receive the award by all former governors of the state - Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Dr. Ayodele Fayose, Engr. Segun Oni, and Dr. Kayode Fayemi; the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, and other eminent

personalities from Ekiti State, said the President’s reforms have helped free up critical resources to states, allowing states to pursue their developmental goals and ensure the delivery of democratic dividends to the people.

While expressing his gratitude to the founder and management of Silverbird Group for nominating him and Nigerians for voting for him, the Governor said the award serves as both recognition and a challenge to do more in delivering quality leadership and impactful policies.

He said he remained committed to continuing his efforts in transforming the state and improving the lives of the citizens.

His words: “Today’s award is about the people, some of them are here with me, some in Ekiti State, some in the Diaspora, friends of our government that have stood by us, chief among them are the former Governors, Senate Leader, National and State Assembly members, Exco members and our corporate friends that have been supporting us to deliver on out promises to Ekiti

people, this award goes to you.

“To the Silverbird Group, we are not unmindful of the responsibility this award imposes on us and I promise you that I am going to be a good ambassador of the brand and sharing this podium today with great men that have won this award before us, I can assure you that I will not let you down.

“The award I receive today is dedicated to God Almighty and also to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu whose policies free resources to sub-nationals to implement their programmes and we are extremely grateful.”

Speaking earlier while presenting the award to the governor, the founder of Silverbird Group, Senator Ben Murray Bruce, commended Oyebanji’s exemplary leadership and impactful governance, stressing that the presence of all the former governors of the state to support the governor at the event was a clear testament of his widespread acceptance and high regard in which he is held.

L-R: Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr (Mrs) Olayemi Oyebanji; Governor Abiodun Oyebanji; recipient of Silverbird Governor of the Year award and Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu; First Lady, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu; and Founder of Silverbird Group, Senator Ben Murray-Bruce, during the award ceremony at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, on Sunday

LAUNCH OF ‘MYLAGOSAPP’...

L-R: Chief Digital Officer of MTN Nigeria, A’isha Mumuni;

Loan Controversy: Otudeko, Others Must Appear Before Challenging Jurisdiction, Court Rules

Adjourns for settlement report as AGF intervenes

Wale Igbintade

Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke of the Federal High Court, Lagos, ruled yesterday that Oba Otudeko, a former chairman of FBN Holdings Plc and three others must appear for arraignment before their applications challenging the court’s jurisdiction would be heard.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had filed a 13-count charge against Otudeko, former First Bank’s Managing Director Olabisi Onasanya; former Honeywell board member Soji Akintayo, and the company Anchorage Leisure Ltd. The case was marked FHC/L/20C/2025.

The defendants were accused of allegedly obtaining N12.3 billion from First Bank under false pretenses. During the proceedings, only Onasanya and Akintayo were present in court.

Mrs. Bilikisu Buhari-Bala appeared for the prosecution.

Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN) represented the first defendant (Otudeko), Mr. Olumide Fusika (SAN) represented the second defendant (Onasanya), Mr. Kehinde Ogunwumiju (SAN) represented the third defendant (Akintayo), while Dr. Charles Adeogun-Philips (SAN) represented the fourth defendant (Anchorage Leisure Ltd).

Mr. Babajide Koku (SAN) held a watching brief for the nominal

complainant (First Bank of Nigeria).

Ruling on various applications challenging the court’s jurisdiction, Justice Aneke held that, based on Section 396(2) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), all defendants must first appear for arraignment before any jurisdictional objections can be considered.

Citing legal precedents, the judge emphasised that preliminary objections cannot be entertained until the defendants are arraigned and their pleas taken.

He referenced the Court of Appeal’s ruling in the Yahaya Bello versus EFCC’s case, which established that no applications could be heard before arraignment.

Following the ruling, Olanipekun, counsel to Otudeko, informed the court that on March 12, 2025, counsel for all parties and the prosecution met at the Attorney General of the Federation’s (AGF) office to explore an amicable resolution.

He stated that substantial progress was made at the meeting and that the AGF had directed all parties to avoid actions that could jeopardise the settlement process.

Furthermore, the AGF instructed that no additional applications should be filed while settlement discussions were ongoing.

Olanipekun also informed the court that the next meeting with the AGF was scheduled for April 9, 2025, in Abuja, and requested an

adjournment for a settlement report.

EFCC’s prosecutor Bilikisu BuhariBala opposed the request, arguing that the case should be adjourned for both a settlement report and the defendants’ arraignment.

At this point, Olanipekun reiter-

ated that, as a senior member of the Bar, he could not mislead the court and confirmed that the AGF had indeed brokered the settlement talks. He urged the court to support the peaceful resolution process by granting an adjournment solely for

a settlement report, rather than arraignment.

Other defence counsel, including Ogunwumiju (SAN), Fusika (SAN), Adeogun-Philips (SAN), and Koku (SAN) (representing First Bank), confirmed their pres-

ence at the settlement meeting and unanimously supported the request for an adjournment solely for a settlement report. Justice Aneke granted the request and adjourned the case to May 8, 2025, for a settlement report.

Court Declares AGF Lacks Powers to Prosecute Electoral Offences

Alex Enumah in Abuja

A Federal High Court in Abuja, has declared that the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice does not have the powers to initiate, maintain and prosecute offences under the Electoral Act, 2022.

Justice Inyang Ekwo made the declaration on Monday, while delivering judgement in a suit filed by the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 governorship election in Ogun State, Oladipupo Adebutu and nine others.

Meanwhile, the AGF is the sole defendant in the suit marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/1038/23.

The plaintiffs had in their Originating Summons prayed the court to stop the office of the AGF from prosecuting them

MRA Condemns Brutal Assault on Journalist by Church Members

Wale Igbintade

Media Rights Agenda (MRA) has strongly condemned the brutal assault on Port Harcourt-based broadcast journalist, Mr. Precious Amadi, by members of Salvation Ministries Church in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The organisation called on the federal government and law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and ensure that all those responsible are identified, prosecuted, and punished.

According to reports, Mr. Amadi was violently attacked and left unconscious after he posted a report on Facebook about a fire outbreak at the church’s premises at 17 Birabi Street, Port Harcourt.

Recounting the incident, Mr. Amadi explained that he had assisted

church members in removing flammable furniture from the premises and attempted – unsuccessfully - to contact the Rivers State Fire Service.

Despite his efforts to help, he was falsely accused of spying and subsequently assaulted by church members under the supervision of some junior pastors. During the attack, his two mobile phones were destroyed, and he sustained multiple injuries.

He was also unlawfully detained for several hours. Furthermore, his Facebook posts calling for help were deleted without his consent, and his phone data was wiped in an apparent attempt to erase evidence of the assault.

In a statement issued in Lagos, MRA’s Programme Officer, Mr. John Gbadamosi, described the attack as a “despicable act and a

grave violation of media freedom and human rights.”

Mr. Gbadamosi emphasized: “Violence against journalists is completely unacceptable and constitutes a direct attack on media freedom and the right to freedom of expression - both fundamental pillars of any democratic society. No journalist should ever face intimidation, harassment, or physical harm for their reporting.”

He urged the federal government and law enforcement agencies to thoroughly investigate the incident and hold accountable everyone involved, including those who carried out, ordered, or supervised the attack. He stressed that, “the safety and protection of journalists must be guaranteed at all times, and any attempt to suppress media freedom must be met with the full force of the law.”

over allegations of vote-buying levelled against Adebutu by the Ogun State governor, Dapo Abiodun and the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Besides, they asked the court to hold that the AGF cannot initiate, commence and continue the prosecution of electoral offences under the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2022 in view of Sections 153, 158, 160 and Paragraph 15, Part 1, 3rd Schedule of the Constitution.

Among the issues raised for determination are whether the prosecution of electoral offences under the Electoral Act, 2022 is not the exclusive reserve of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in line with

Section 145(2) of the Electoral Act and Sections 153, 158, 160 and Paragraph 15, Part 1, 3rd Schedule of the Constitution.

Justice Ekwo, in his judgement, agreed with the plaintiffs that, it is only INEC that can initiate and maintain criminal proceedings for offences under the Electoral Act, 2022.

The Judge further held that, the initiation, commencement and prosecution of electoral offences under the Electoral Act, 2022 by the office of the AGF and Minister of Justice is a violation of Sections 153, 158, 160 and Paragraph 15, Part 1, 3rd Schedule of the Constitution and Sections 144 and 145(2) of the Electoral Act and the independence of INEC. In addition, he held that the defendant by exercising the power to prosecute the plaintiffs in a manner not in accordance with the law is ultra vires, adding that, “The power of the AGF to take over any proceedings can be challenged if the exercise of the power is not in accordance with the law”. The court however did no grant some of the prayers of the plaintiffs, on the grounds that doing so will amount to tampering with decisions of courts of coordinate jurisdiction. Ekwo subsequently held that, the plaintiff has established his case according to the law and is entitled to justice.

Soludo: With Homeland Security, Anambra Now One of the Safest States in the Country

Funmi Ogundare

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, yesterday, identified as one of his major feats, the creation of Homeland Security, which he claimed has made the state one of the safest in the country.

Highlighting the significant improvements in the state’s security situation, Soludo, in a televised interview to mark his third year in office, recalled a time when criminal gangs had a firm grip on local governments, causing widespread fear.

However, with the introduction of the state’s new homeland security law and the creation of a modern security framework, Anambra, he said, had transformed into one of

the safest states in Nigeria.

“We’ve implemented a thorough security strategy that addresses the root causes of crime, including cultism, kidnapping, and drug abuse,” he explained.

He also acknowledged the crucial role of cooperation between state and federal security agencies in achieving these results.

Emphasised his strides in the state’s healthcare system in the past three years, the governor explained that Anambra recently won the national prize for primary health, securing a prize of $700,000, and was also named the South-east regional champion in the same category.

“This is not just any award. It reflects the hard work we have put into our health sector,

especially primary health,” Soludo remarked, noting the state’s dedication to enhancing its healthcare infrastructure. Since assuming office, Soludo’s administration has refurbished 326 primary health centres across all electoral wards, ensuring that each facility was equipped with necessary medical personnel and resources. More than 1,000 healthcare workers, including doctors, nurses, and pharmacists, had been recruited to bolster the state’s health system. Anambra’s focus on improving maternal health was also a key highlight. The state, Soludo noted, introduced free antenatal care, including free drugs and delivery services, benefiting over 102,000 women.

Nollywood icon, Joke Silva; Chief Executive Officer of MTN Nigeria, Karl Toriola; Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr Femi Hamzat (who represented the state Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu); and Chief Information Officer at MTN Nigeria, Shoyinka Shodunke, at the launch of ‘MyLagosApp’ in Lagos… recently

MAIDEN DELTAS UNITE SUMMIT OF THE UNITED NATIONS CONVENTION...

Seated (L-R):

Femi Falana: Let the Senate Be Guided By History on Senator Natasha’s Geneva Trip

There’ll be consequences if DSS arrests her, CUPP warns FG NeWSD flays her suspension

Chuks Okocha and Sunday Aborisade in Abuja Lawyer. And human rights activist, Mr. Femi Falana, SAN, has cautioned against the move to get Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan arrested on her return from foreign trip.

Also, the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), has warned the federal government that there would be dire consequences on the nation’s democracy if the embattled Kogi Central Senator was arrested by security agencies whenever she returns to Nigeria from the United States.

Similarly, the Network of Women for Sustainable Development

(NeWSD), has condemned what it called, “the illegal and unjust suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from the Nigerian Senate for six months.”

Falana noted that it was public knowledge that the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, a party to the case in Court and the accusation of sexual harassment, accused his accuser, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan of embarrassing the government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria by reporting her suspension by the Senate to the Inter Parliamentary Union.

Falana also said contrary to the jaundiced views of the Senate leader, it was the official probe of the

circumstances of her trip by security forces that would further expose Nigeria to needless embarrassment and undeserved ridicule.

He, therefore, advised the DSS, and National Intelligence Agency (NIA), to study the report of the investigation of late Dr. Beko Ramsome Kuti and himself travelling out of the country during the Sani Abacha military junta before embarking on the futile attempt to probe Senator Natasha AkpotiUduaghan for having the temerity to externalise the “internal affair of the Senate”.

Falana stressed that any probe of Akpoti-Uduaghan would particularly embarrass some top officials of the President Bola Tinubu administration,

who were once accused of travelling out of Nigeria to embarrass the defunct military junta.

According to Falana, “In 1994, Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, the Chairman of the Campaign for Democracy (CD) travelled to India to attend the meeting of the Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative. At the material time, he was the only African member of the international body.

“At about the same time, I travelled to Canada to deliver some lectures on the human rights situation in Nigeria. During my stay in Canada, I received an award on behalf of the CD.

“Upon our return to Nigeria on January 14, 1995, both of us were arrested and kept at the Nigeria

Akpabio: We’ll Amend 2022 Electoral Act to Allow for Statutory Delegates at Primaries

Asks NBA to expose quacks among them

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, yesterday, said the National Assembly would amend the 2022 Electoral Act to ensure the inclusion of statutory delegates in political parties’ primaries ahead of the 2027 general election.

He disclosed this in Abuja while having in audience the National leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA),whom he admonished to weed out quacks from the legal profession.

Akpabio noted that the omission of statutory delegates from primaries of political parties in the 2022 Electoral Act was a costly mistake that must be corrected before the next round of general election.

“There were defects in the last Electoral Act that was amended. So, we want to cure some of the defects that we found in our electoral system. I can tell you one.

“Without any particular intention of the Parliament, in the 2023 elections and the 2022 primaries, we inadvertently,

created what I may call super-delegates.

“Because all the statutory delegates, starting from the President, the Vice President, the Governors, Deputy Governors, the Senate President, Deputy Senate President, Speaker, Deputy Speaker, members of Parliament, National, Sub-National, Chairman of Councils, and all, were omitted as delegates.

“These are areas that we think we can look at in order to make our democracy more participatory, because democracy is all about number.

Anyanwu taking judiciary on wild goose chase, alleges Ex-national legal adviser

Chuks Okocha and Emmanuel Addeh

The Zonal Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), South-south Zone, Mr George Turnah, has expressed regret over the resignation of a party stalwart and former Technical Adviser to Governor Douye Diri, Jeremiah Owoupele, calling for a reversal of the party’s decline.

This was as a former Legal Adviser of the PDP, Jacob Mark, has criticised Samuel Anyanwu for what he described as the height of abuse of court process in an attempt to evade compliance with the judgment that removed him as PDP National Secretary.

Describing Owoupele’s departure

from the party as a significant loss, Turnah stated that his resignation highlighted the discontent and frustration that have permeated the ranks of the party, especially in Bayelsa.

In a statement by his Media Assistant, Kelvin Loveday-Egbo, Turnah, said “Owoupele’s resignation underscores the deep-rooted issues plaguing our party, particularly the ineffective leadership under the current State Working Committee.

“The lack of vision, poor reward systems, and apparent neglect by the party’s leadership in the state have forced dedicated members like Owoupele to seek alternatives.

“His voice represents the sentiments of many young and

vibrant pillars of our party, who feel marginalised and disenfranchised. The leadership failure and highhandedness displayed by the current State Working Committee have created an environment of impunity and illegality,” he stated.

According to Turnah, this has directly contributed to the decline of the party’s influence in the state, coupled with the inability to grasp the fundamentals of effective party administration, resulting in a crisis that has hampered progress and unity.

On his part, Mark, while speaking in an interview with ARISE NEWS, yesterday, accused Anyanwu of manipulating the judiciary to prolong his stay in office despite multiple rulings against him.

“We ended up at a national level bringing out the president, we had about 2,380, because we had 3,000 people in each of the local government areas, who were omitted from the amendment.

“It meant that all others unless you contested to be an ad hoc delegate you are not welcome at the primaries to select flag bearers of the legislative houses, governorship and then of course flag bearer of the presidential conventions in all the political parties across the country.

Immigration Service Guest House at Ikoyi, Lagos State. A combined team of State Security Service, Nigeria Intelligence Agency and Nigeria Immigration Service personnel interrogated us.

“We were accused of travelling out of Nigeria illegally as we did not pass through any of the official routes. It was further stated that we ought to have obtained security clearance since we were aware that our names were on the ‘watch list’ compiled by the security forces.

“I pointed out to the interrogators that the so-called watch list was discriminatory and illegal. I referred to the case of Shugaba v Minister of Interior wherein the Court of Appeal had ruled that a Nigerian citizen has the right of egress and ingress.

“At that stage, we were asked to produce and submit our passports. We flatly turned down the request on the ground that they were likely to be confiscated to prevent us from further exercising our fundamental right to freedom of movement guaranteed by Article 12 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights (Ratification and Enforcement) Act.

“Indeed, we informed our interrogators that the passports were kept in the house of a comrade in Cotonou, Benin Republic which was our adopted route for travelling out of Nigeria.

“Our interrogators said that they had confirmed from the airports, seaports and land borders that we did not present our passports to immigration officers for stamping. We replied that, on a daily basis, over a million Nigerian people travel in

and out of Nigeria without stamping their passports in the artificial borders created by the British and French colonialists which are maintained by the neo-colonialists in power; in the member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

“As the federal military regime was completely embarrassed by the global demand for our release, the security forces granted us bail pending the conclusion of investigation.

“Our lawyer, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, stood surety for us and we were released to him. Even though we were detained for a week, we were not charged for the alleged offence of illegal travelling out of Nigeria.

“For the umpteenth time, the attention of the Senate and the security forces ought to be drawn to the case of the Speaker, Bauchi State House of Assembly v Honourable Rifkatu Danna (2017) 49 WRN 82.

“The respondent was the only woman in the House of Assembly of 31 members. She was suspended indefinitely for criticising the relocation of the Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area. As far as the House members were concerned, her speech was considered ‘derogatory’.

“In setting aside her indefinite suspension from the House, the Bauchi Chief Judge held that her suspension beyond 14 days was illegal and uncomfortable. But the Court of Appeal declared that the House lacks the vires to subject her to any form of suspension from the House as it was a denial of the rights of the people of her Bogoro Constituency to be represented in the government.

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The All Progressives Party (APC) has said former governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, was blinded by ego, driven by untamed emotion, and brimming with a vengeful desire to “collapse the system.”

National Publicity Secretary of the party, Felix Morka, stated this in a statement, yesterday, while reacting to the recent interview that El-Rufai granted BBC Hausa.

El-Rufai had said in the interview that APC has deviated from the progressive ideals of its founders, and turned into a party where “everyone is now pursuing personal interests…”

He noted: “Today, El-Rufai stands diminished as the epitome of a self-

interested politician, blinded by ego, driven by untamed emotion, and brimming with a vengeful desire to collapse the system.

“In his BBC interview under reference, El-Rufai supplied the real reason for his soreness, stating that he was disappointed by the way he was treated by President Bola Tinubu and his administration, in ostensible reference to his failed ministerial bid.”

Morka added that his claim that he exited APC because the party had deviated from its founding values or progressive ideology was a smokescreen to weaponise personal grievance garbed as principled dissent.

Morka emphasised El-Rufai’s allegation of a drift from party’s founding values exists only in his foggy imagination.

“Assuming that matters of political conviction had anything to do with his exit, exactly how is the Social Democratic Party (SDP), El-Rufai’s new political abode, an ideological safe haven?

“El-Rufai’s appears traumatised by his failure to land a ministerial position. Nursing a bruised ego, he now lashes out at the platform on which he rode to political prominence,” Morka said. The spokesperson stressed that APC’s commitment to its founding values and ideals remained as valid and progressive today as they were then.

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri (5th left); National Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Amb. Boladei Igali (left); Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (South-South), Gift Johnbull (2nd left); President of the Asian Institute of Technology, Prof. Pai Chi-Li (3rd left); and other delegates at the maiden Deltas Unite summit of the United Nations Convention on Conserving River Deltas at the Asian Institute of Technology in Bangkok, Thailand, yesterday

in Abuja

Oborevwori: Delta Committed to Sustaining Peace in Riverine Communities

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta yesterday said the state government was committed to maintaining the existing peace in the riverine communities to sustain oil production, the mainstay of the nation’s economy.

The governor, who stated this when the course participants of the Naval War College Nigeria (NWCN), Calabar, visited at Government House, Asaba, said Delta remained highest in oil production.

Represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, Oborevwori

said the current administration has constructed several kilometers of roads and drainage channels in the riverine areas of the state.

Oborevwori disclosed that his administration through the M.O.R.E Agenda was committed to “fostering inclusive development and enhancing the quality of lives of our people.

“This administration is also committed to maintaining the prevailing peace in the riverine communities as the state is the highest in crude oil production, the mainstay of the economy of Nigeria.

C’River Moves to Revive Oil Palm Estates

The Cross River Council on Privatisation has disclosed that neglect by past administrations and communal disputes have led to the decline of oil palm estates in the state.

Director-General of the Council, Mr Bassey Okon, revealed this during the bid opening event for the privatisation of the Erei Farm Settlement yesterday in Calabar.

The Erei Farm Settlement comprises the Ikun, Urugbam, and Egbor Oil Palm Estates, all located in Biase Local Government Area of Cross River.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), two investors, El-Darl Farms Limited and Bella Van Baass Limited, have expressed interest in acquiring the estates.

The DG highlighted the government’s commitment to economic growth via strategic private-sector partnerships,

adding that efforts were underway to revive old agroallied estates.

“We are here to open technical bids for the estates, established in 1961 under the Eastern Nigerian Development Corporation, and due for revitalisation,” Okon said.

He noted that years of neglect, reinvestment failure, and communal disputes had led to the estates’ decline and loss of productive potential over time.

“These estates have not been replanted in decades, despite best agricultural practices recommending regular replanting for long-term productivity,” he stated.

Okon said Governor Bassey Otu’s people-first agenda ensures that all initiatives prioritise job creation, economic empowerment, and sustainable development for the benefit of residents.

“It is with great pleasure that I welcome you all to this courtesy call to kick-start your study tour of the State with effect from today, March 17, 2025.

“I am aware that the tour is

a vital aspect of your course curriculum. A delegation of 60 officials under the leadership of Rear Admiral A.O. Olodude and supported by Commodore C.U. Yahaya, Commandant and

Deputy-Commandant of the College, respectively.

“This underscores the seriousness of the study and the state government is pleased to identify with the College.

“Your study theme, “Maritime Security: A Panacea for Viable Socio-Economic Development” holds the pathway to the safety and development of the blue economy of Nigeria.”

Akpoti-Uduaghan Erred Taking Our Matters to IPU, Says Ex-NAPAC USA Chairman

Sunday Okobi

The embattled Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has been flayed over her recent participation in the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) meeting in New York, United States, where she was accused of “prioritising a personal quarrel over the collective objective of the nation.”

The former leader of the NigerianAmerican Public Affair

Committee?? (NAPAC USA)

Mr. Ike Chidolue, in a statement yesterday, lamented that AkpotiUduaghan chose to prioritise and scandalise the country in a way that distracted international development partners from the issues in the country.

According to him, “Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s decision to publicly indict the leadership of Nigeria’s Parliament at the Inter-Parliamentary Union

(IPU) without any official delegation or endorsement transcends mere political grievance.

“It represents a serious breach of parliamentary ethics, an affront to national sovereignty, and a reckless gamble with Nigeria’s diplomatic credibility. Stripped of emotion, her actions set a dangerous precedent— one where personal grievance is paraded as national advocacy, and national institutions are sacrificed on the altar of personal vindication.

The widespread condemnation and accusations of international sabotage are not misplaced, they are justified.”

Querying her presence at the UN gathering despite her suspension, Chidolue said: “Attending the IPU in a self-sponsored capacity, Senator Natasha positioned her private conflict as a national crisis, thereby undermining the dignity and constitutional authority of the Nigerian Senate.

Kano Workers to Validate Own March Salaries, Set for Pay Parade

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano yesterday said his administration will conduct a pay parade to determine the actual number of workers on the state’s payroll.

Yusuf disclosed this shortly after he received the report of a special committee set up to investigate complaints of discrepancies

arising from payment of workers’ February salaries. He said the measure would also enable the government to ascertain the actual amount of money the government it is paying per worker.

According to him, the exercise aims to identify and eliminate ghost workers, ensuring that the state’s resources are utilized efficiently.

“The pay parade is the only

way we can know the actual number of the civil servants; it is the only way we can know how much is paid per head,” he said.

This was even as the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Farouk Umar, confirmed that the civil servants will validate their salaries for the month of March before payment to guard against any discrepancies in the process.

Umar said the measure was necessitated by workers’ complaints of discrepancies including deductions in their January and February salaries. He said the workers had been instructed through their Ministries, Departments and Agencies(MDAs to endeavour to verify the salaries put on their names and report any observed discrepancy for necessary action.

Enugu Witnessing Progress Under Mbah, Says NUSA

The Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) has said Enugu State is witnessing unprecedented progress and development under the Gov. Peter Mbah administration.

NUSA, the apex body representing Nigerians living in South Africa, said this yesterday in a congratulatory message to the governor on his 53rd birthday anniversary.

The congratulatory message was signed by the President of NUSA, Mr Smart Nwobi, who is also the Secretary-General, Enugu State Union South Africa.

The group expressed deep admiration for the governor’s commitment to elevating the state’s potential and improving the lives of its citizens.

“We are honoured to extend our warmest and most heartfelt felicitations to you on the auspicious occasion of your 53rd birthday,” NUSA said in the message. It added that as the premier organisation overseeing the interests of Nigerians in South Africa, it recognises the governor’s exceptional leadership and transformative achievements.

“Your remarkable vision and dedicated service have not gone unnoticed both within Nigeria and among the Diaspora community.

Dr Adam England “unbelievably excited” to be appointed Principal of Rugby School Nigeria

ugby School Nigeria, based at Eko Atlantic City in Lagos, is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr Adam England as its Principal. Dr England brings with him twenty years of leadership experience in both the United Kingdom and Africa, most recently serving as Director General of École Internationale Ruban Vert in Libreville, Gabon.

As the school prepares to welcome its first A Level students this September and fully open its senior school for girls and boys from the age of 11+ in September 2026, anticipation continues to grow for this groundbreaking educational institution, attracting aspiring students from across Nigeria and West Africa.

Dr England is eager to build a thriving and dynamic school community, stating: “I am unbelievably excited at the thought of returning to Lagos as

Principal of Rugby School Nigeria. Anybody who knows me understands how much I enjoyed my time working in Nigeria.”

He adds: “Before then I shall be spending some time at Rugby School England, absorbing its ‘Whole Person Whole Point’ philosophy and its global approach to teaching and learning.”

Dr England holds degrees in English and French from Warwick and Swansea University, along with a doctorate in English Literature. His connection to Nigeria runs deep, having previously worked in Lagos and developed a profound appreciation for the country’s culture and people.

His leadership experience includes serving as Chairman of the Independent Schools Council of Wales, and he is also a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts. While his grown-up children reside in London, Dr England will be joined in Lagos by his partner Tricia, who works in primary education.

“To return as Principal of such a prestigious school, working on a purpose-built campus with some of the best colleagues in the industry, is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” he concludes.

Gareth Parker-Jones, Head Master of Rugby School (UK) commented: “We have long connections with Nigeria and some fantastic students have studied here. They have really embodied the character, the values of Rugby School. So to be able to offer that to more Nigerian students, now in Lagos, is something which I'm really excited for and I can't wait for the opening this September.”

For further information and admissions enquiries, parents can contact admissions@rugbyschoolnigeria.com or go to www.RugbySchoolNigeria.com.

announced

Dr Adam England

as Principal of Rugby School Nigeria

(left) with Gareth Parker-Jones, Head Master of Rugby School (UK).

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

www.thisdaylive.com

opinion@thisdaylive.com

STILL RIDING ON THE CURRENCY OF HOPE

The Tinubu administration is marching on confidently, writes RONKE BELLO

See page 21

WHY AFRICAN COUNTRIES SHOULD TRADE AMONGST THEMSELVES

ETIM ETIM argues that AfCFTA has the potential to boost employment, and strengthens Africa’s global competitiveness

See page 21

Winning a war often requires more than just military might, argues JOSHUA OCHEJA

WINNING A WAR: BEYOND BULLETS

The global threat of terrorism has prompted nations to explore diverse solutions to mitigate its impact. In Nigeria, the military has traditionally relied on kinetic operations, focusing on physical force and supporting systems. However, in recent times, the military has adopted non-kinetic strategies, prioritizing diplomacy and other non-combatant methods that appeal to human sensibilities in its counterinsurgency operations. This approach is crucial in asymmetric and irregular warfare, where subtle and multifaceted strategies are essential.

The wisdom of this approach is echoed in the timeless principles outlined by Sun Tzu, a renowned Chinese military strategist and philosopher, in his classic work, "The Art of War." Sun Tzu advocated for using conventional methods (kinetic) to engage in battle but emphasized the importance of unconventional methods (non-kinetic) to secure victory. This ancient wisdom remains remarkably relevant today, underscoring the value of integrating both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to achieve success in Nigeria's counterinsurgency operations in the North East and other parts of the country.

The deployment of unconventional methods is crucial in Nigeria's counterinsurgency efforts, particularly against Boko Haram in Northeast Nigeria. I recall a conversation with a high-ranking military officer who shared his experiences while serving as a commander in one of the military units in Borno State. Upon assuming command, he realized that success depended not only on military firepower but also on understanding local dynamics and systematically meeting the locals at the point of their needs. In his area of operation, he discovered a deeper issue: a long-standing cold war between indigenes and settlers. The indigenes, who felt entitled, did not engage in productive activities, while the settlers were economically empowered through their entrepreneurial pursuits. In an attempt to undermine the settlers' influence, the indigenes would often provide Boko Haram with false information, labelling the settlers as military spies. Tragically, this led to the settlers being disproportionately targeted by Boko Haram attacks.

One of the first things he did was to convene several meetings with the various district heads in his Area of Responsibility (AOR). The outcome of these meetings was a unanimous desire among the locals to return to their farming livelihoods, which had been hindered by the activities of Boko Haram insurgents. Armed with this critical information, he collaborated with his lieutenants to identify and disrupt insurgent movements, conducting clearance operations to detonate landmines and create barriers. Furthermore, he negotiated a reciprocal arrangement with the district heads, promising to secure their farms in exchange for sensitive and relevant information about the insurgents. This strategic approach proved to be the turning point in the counterinsurgency efforts in his AOR.

He deployed a non-military strategy of sourcing for seedlings for the farmers, and creating a roster for designated farming days. On these days, the military provides security escorts for the farmers to and from their fields. Initially, the locals were sceptical about

the success of this strategy, given their past experiences with Boko Haram. Sensing their reservations, he adapted his approach, creating a new roster that enlisted the participation of young, agile, and idle youths. Surprisingly, they readily bought into the strategy. The example illustrated above clearly demonstrates the symbiotic relationship between kinetic and non-kinetic strategies in counterinsurgency operations. This is particularly relevant given the multidimensional nature of insurgency, which is inherently asymmetric. The use of brute force alone often times is not sufficient. This is why insurgencies can persist for extended periods, as evident in the protracted Boko Haram conflict. The second lesson from the above example is that by engaging the redundant youths, the recruitment drive of the Boko Haram insurgents in the area was affected, as the youths were meaningfully engaged and could not be enticed into joining their ranks. We must understand the interplay here: on one hand, a critical constituency was shielded from the lures of the Boko Haram insurgents, thereby depleting their ranks as a result of the military's engagement in kinetic operations. On the other hand, the locals now saw the military as their saviour, rather than an occupying force in the area. Non-kinetic operations in the military's counterinsurgency efforts are undermined by the political class's failure to fully recognize the strategic importance of this strategy in warfare. Winning a war often requires more than just military might. The military cannot simultaneously conduct kinetic operations and bear the sole responsibility for non-kinetic operations, which demand significant resources, long-term planning, and consistent implementation.

Traditionally, military formations receive funding for welfare and logistical requirements. However, supporting humanitarian interventions for locals within their Area of Responsibility strains their operational effectiveness. This diversion of resources underscores the need for a more comprehensive approach to counterinsurgency, one that acknowledges the importance of non-kinetic operations and provides dedicated support and funding. A good example of this challenge is a community ravaged by insurgency, where a primary healthcare center is urgently needed. While the military can provide temporary shelter and deploy military medical personnel, its impact is limited compared to a comprehensive government intervention. It's essential to remember that the military is

not trained for humanitarian interventions. However, the exigency of the situation and the need to win the war, not just battles, have necessitated the military's adoption of non-kinetic strategies in its counterterrorism operations against non-state actors.

In my opinion, this remains the missing link. Often, there is no government presence in warravaged localities, and the political leadership leaves this burden on the shoulders of a military that is already stretched in combat with insurgents. This is a misnomer and a significant gap in the government's approach to security issues. In asymmetric warfare, success requires a two-pronged approach: engaging in battle to win the war, not just the battle. Winning the hearts and minds of the people is as crucial as the military's artillery sophistication. Until the political class fully acknowledges the importance of non-kinetic operations and takes up that responsibility, Boko Haram insurgents and other non-state actors will continue to exploit this vulnerability.

An example was the relative success of Abu Musab al-Barnawi's leadership of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). His approach was focused on winning the hearts and minds of the local populace by providing social services and economic opportunities to the local population. ISWAP implemented initiatives that addressed the basic needs of the community, including digging wells, distributing seeds and fertilizers, creating safe pastures for herders, and using clerics to encourage internally displaced persons to return to their communities. By assuming the role of a de facto government, ISWAP won the allegiance of the local population, making it increasingly challenging for the military to gain traction in the region. This scenario underscores the limitations of military force alone in counterinsurgency efforts, highlighting the need for a multi-pronged approach that prioritizes winning the hearts and minds of the local population.

Despite the military's notable progress in humanitarian interventions, infrastructure development, and community engagement, the full potential of these initiatives remains untapped due to the government's limited recognition of non-kinetic strategies as a vital component of counterinsurgency operations. This oversight is particularly striking in the context of the Boko Haram insurgency, which has devastated the country since 2009.

To effectively counter insurgency, the government must take a more proactive role in supporting the military's efforts. This involves implementing initiatives that build trust with local communities, promote economic empowerment, support education and vocational training, and facilitate reconciliation and reintegration of former combatants. A solely kinetic approach has limitations, and a more comprehensive strategy is needed to win the war, not just battles. I believe this paradigm shift is crucial in vanquishing extremist groups like Boko Haram in North East Nigeria and other parts of the country challenged by the activities of non-state actors, and can ultimately lead to lasting peace and stability in Nigeria.

Ocheja, PhD, specializes in the intricate military histories of Nigeria and Africa

The Tinubu administration is marching on confidently, writes RONKE BELLO

STILL

RIDING ON THE CURRENCY OF HOPE

Between the last editions of my articles “Currency Of Hope” and now, a lot has occurred in the administrative space of our beloved nation-state Nigeria. There is absolutely no facet of governance that has not been affected by a new policy or ongoing reforms hopefully for better. After all the only hope in any reform lies in the expected better outcomes, speed in performance embedded in a constant and sustained engagement with the citizens.

These led me back to pick up the document “Renewed Hope: Action Plan For A Better Nigeria”(2023). That was our campaign manifesto for the Tinubu Presidency and I bet some of us know the document word for word as we interpreted this again and again during the hard fought campaign preceding elections. It is a 75page document that covers major areas of governance from National Security, The Economy to Agriculture, Digital Economy, Women Empowerment, Education, Sports Development, Aviation, Arts , Culture and Tourism ,Judicial Reforms, Foreign Policies and much more.

In that well researched document lies the pact this administration made with the Nigerian people for the first four years and from whence many of these reforms are being introduced. I will encourage all managers of policies in this administration (whether they were part of the campaign or not) to have that document as a working tool on their tables as a guide for a clearer understanding of the pact, the journey and the hopeful destination. And these must be continually tracked, monitored and measured because it has automatically become the peoples’ scorecard of our performance in the next few years.

Thus it is with great excitement that the nation recently noticed a drop in the alarming rising prices of foodstuff. Many reasons have been alluded to this development. Daniel Bwala, one of the President’s spokesperson said “The reason the food prices are crashing is because we have dealt a heavy blow to insecurity, hence farmers enthusiastically go to farm and do what they do best. “

While the well respected Waziri Adio, who was once described (by the international renowned online media The Cable ) as the czar of Nigeria’s extractive industry in his recent article “The Savoury Fall in Food Prices” which should be read by all policy handlers in the agriculture industry writes, “We need to fully understand the drivers of this positive trend, and ensure that we pay more serious, systematic and sustainable attention not just to food prices but also to the larger issue of food security.”

As he noted this fall in food prices didn’t go unnoticed by both local and the international media. This is not only an ongoing achievement but one that resonates with our pact with Nigeria in the Renewed Hope document on pages 26 to 29 “Agriculture; plant the right seed, feed the entire nation”. “We vow to help the farmer and his/her community in new and significant ways that will usher in a true and complete rebirth of the Nigerian agriculture.”

Since food is only one area of the essence of human life, Nigerians rightfully are hoping in fact demanding for reduction

of prices in other important areas especially medicare because without mincing words medicines is certainly out of the reach of most Nigerians! Though hope renewed, the ongoing promise made on Healthcare in pages 4548 of our document that “Primary healthcare will remain the bedrock of our system. Deploying adequate infrastructure and Human Resources to address …all pressing issues of primary health care” is assured.

This week, President Bola Tinubu approved the employment of 774 National Health Fellows, a pivotal initiative led by the Federal Ministry of Health to foster sustained improvements within Nigeria’s healthcare system.

On Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship, we recognize that a great and prosperous nation is hinged on having strong and prosperous youths that make up a huge percentage of our population. Our pact with Nigerians on pages 57 to 59 of our document states that “Building the future, from day one our administration will partner with the youths “. This has been continually fulfilled by the number of youths in government which is unprecedented in our democratic history thus far. This week the president went further by inaugurating National Youth Confab Committee where he tasked them by these words : “Look at me in the face, tell me whatever you think is wrong and the way you want things done. We’ll try to implement all of it as long as it is for the prosperity of this country.” Indeed a statesman “whose eyes are on the next generation”!

These are not to conclude that we are there yet; but we must be dealers of hope while working extra hard to bring our nation to that glorious height we all desire and can be proud of, that is why I agree with Rohini Nilekani who said “We cannot be mere consumers of good governance, we must be participants; we must be co-creators”.

As we approach the half time of our first tenure we must keep marching forward deliberately with huge steps embedded in high performances, formidable information dissemination, needed support of the sub-nationals and the huge contributions of ideas and opinions from the citizens which we must develop capacity to absolve and reflect on. For these are the very foundations of a strong and prosperous nation.

May God bless Nigeria.

Academic,

ETIM ETIM argues that AfCFTA has the potential to boost employment, and strengthens Africa’s global competitiveness

WHY AFRICAN COUNTRIES SHOULD TRADE AMONGST THEMSELVES

Africans could be incredibly hard on themselves. We complain about bad leadership, corruption, economy, the weather and even our accent. But the continent continues to record noticeable achievements in key sectors. Take intra-African trade, for example. Decades ago, we rarely had anything to buy from one another. But according to Afrexim Bank, in 2023, despite a volatile global economic landscape, intra-African trade remained resilient, standing as a beacon of hope for sustainable development in Africa. It grew at 7.2% yearon-year, reaching $192 billion, which accounted for 15% of total African trade in 2023, up from 13.6% from the previous year. Although this is a notable triumph, African business leaders are not resting on their oars. They want to trade more amongst themselves; break down barriers that keep us from visiting each other more freely and integrate the continent into a large economic bloc. But there are important challenges to overcome before the continent could deepen its intratrade volume. Last week, Access Bank Plc hosted the inaugural Africa Trade Conference in Cape Town, South Africa, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and trade experts to drive solutions for accelerating intra-African trade and unlocking the continent’s economic potential. The conference tackled critical challenges, including limited access to capital, market information gaps, trust deficits between trading partners, and the urgent need for modernised trade infrastructure.

Roosevelt Ogbonna, the bank’s Managing Director/ CEO delivered the opening remarks, setting the tone for discussions by highlighting the critical barriers hindering trade across Africa. He emphasised the urgent need for financial sector collaboration to facilitate seamless access to capital and foster a business environment where African enterprises can scale and compete globally. “We must invest in the initiatives that ensure that we can bring businesses together, forge trust, and create the connections necessary for trade. In doing so, we must stamp out the narrative that 'Made in Africa' is inferior to any product made anywhere else in the world. We must buy Africa, be proud to wear Africa, and invest in Africa because that is what the continent needs to leap forward into the next generation,” Ogbonna stated.

He highlighted the need for Africa to take control of its economic destiny by fostering deeper collaboration, investing in financial infrastructure, and creating home grown solutions that drive sustainable growth.

Ogbonna underscored the shifting dynamics of global trade and increasing need for Africa to look inward. The world, he noted, has become more fragmented, with rising nationalist tendencies and supply chain disruptions that have disproportionately impacted the continent. These challenges, he argued, present an opportunity for Africa to strengthen its trade networks, support local businesses, and build the resilience needed to compete on a global scale. However, for this vision to become a reality, several structural barriers must be addressed. One of the critical issues is the challenges businesses face in securing capital. While many African enterprises have the ambition to scale, the excessive cost of financing often inhibits their ability to expand. He advocated a financial services sector that is designed to empower businesses, making capital more accessible and affordable.

Beyond financial constraints, limited access to market intelligence remains a major hurdle. Many African businesses lack the necessary insights to identify trade opportunities beyond their local markets. Leveraging technology to enhance information-sharing can bridge this gap, enabling businesses to make informed decisions and seize growth prospects across the continent.

Apart from capital, Ogbonna highlighted the critical role of access to information. Many businesses struggle to find the data and intelligence necessary to make informed decisions and identify opportunities beyond their national borders. He stressed that leveraging technology to bridge this gap will be instrumental in driving cross-border trade and creating a more connected Africa. He also addressed the issue of trust between trading partners, noting that historic challenges, inconsistent regulations, and varying standards have contributed to a lack of confidence in intraAfrica trade. Overcoming this scepticism, he affirmed, requires deliberate efforts to harmonise standards, foster cooperation, and shift perceptions about the quality of African goods and services. He urged African businesses to take pride in what they produce, invest in local industries, and reject the notion that products made on the continent are inferior to those from elsewhere.

Bello,Ph.D,

Policy Analyst , Publicist and Author writes from Abuja

His words: “Many businesses on the continent struggle to find capital or access to capital and the right structure of capital, and when they do find it, the cost of capital is so significant that it makes it unbelievably expensive for them to be able to raise capital and still do business competitively. That has to change. We have to create a financial services sector that empowers businesses, one that makes it easier and seamless for businesses to be able to access capital, to able to invest in growth, invest in innovation, and of course, the muscle they need to expand beyond their local boundaries. It is clear that we need to create a network of Africa financial giants who are willing to create home grown solutions to support the continent in achieving the objectives that we have set for ourselves.”

There is also the urgent need to modernise Africa’s trade routes and infrastructure. Drawing on historical examples, he pointed out that Africa once had well-established trade corridors that connected it to the Middle East and Asia. Today, however, inefficient transport networks and regulatory bottlenecks make it easier for businesses in Angola to trade with Portugal than with South Africa or Nigeria. He called for a renewed commitment to building the infrastructure and regulatory frameworks necessary to facilitate seamless trade across the continent, ensuring that goods, services, and capital can move freely between African nations. The Access Bank Africa Trade Conference represents a significant step toward fostering dialogue, building partnerships, and driving policy initiatives that support Africa’s economic transformation. As the continent continues to navigate global uncertainties, events like this serve as a reminder that Africa’s future lies in its ability to collaborate, innovate, and build a sustainable trade ecosystem that benefits all. With Africa’s population projected to surge to 2.5 billion by 2050 from 1.2 billion, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) stands as the most significant free trade initiative since the formation of the World Trade Organisation. By fostering economic integration, AfCFTA has the potential to reshape trade dynamics across the continent, creating a unified market that enhances industrialisation, boosts employment, and strengthens Africa’s global competitiveness.

is a Journalist and Author

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

POLICE AND DIGNITY FOR THE DEAD

The dead should be treated with dignity

The displeasure expressed by legal practitioners from Plateau State over the manner the police handled the death of a former Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), David Parradang, is well justified. Releasing a graphic image of the corpse to the media and a hasty statement about the circumstances preceding the death were insensitive. Under the aegis of Plateau Lawyers Bar Forum (PBLF), chairman, Ledak Dazuk Dafer, and secretary, Niri Isaac Darong, described the police response as inappropriate, and undermined the dignity of the deceased and infringed upon the family’s right to mourn privately.

While calling for a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding Parradang’s death, the PBLF has also advocated the “establishment of stricter guidelines to prevent the release of sensitive information and images in future cases.” We hope that the police and other authorities in the country will see it as a teachable moment because this is not an isolated incident. In Nigeria today, the treatment meted to some dead persons is troubling, utterly contemptuous, and traumatic, especially for their families.

constitutes a major health hazard for communities living around such an environment, especially at a time the country is battling bouts of disease outbreak.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), one of the ways to offer respect for the dead is for mortuaries to give each corpse the dignity it deserves through freezing, cabinet placement and proper labelling for easy identification. Unfortunately, these cannot be provided in many of these facilities, including where the remains of those who served and died in defence of the country are kept.

The fact that thousands of unclaimed corpses are lying in different morgues in Nigeria has encouraged a lot of unwholesome practices by mortuary attendants

T H I S D AY

EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU

DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE

MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI

EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

It is indeed a measure of how much premium is placed on humanity in the country that even after they are dead, Nigerians are not treated with dignity. A former Chief of Army Staff, the late Taoreed Lagbaja, once lamented decomposing corpses in mortuaries of some Nigerian Army barracks across the country. While hundreds of corpses stay in mortuaries for years without anybody coming forward to claim them, some new corpses are dumped at these ill-maintained facilities by relatives or security operatives who bring in dead accident victims or dead armed robbers, thereby increasing the pile of bodies. This development

T H I S D AY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA

GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE

DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI

SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI

CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI

DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

Letters to the Editor

Meanwhile, the fact that thousands of unclaimed corpses are lying in different morgues in Nigeria has encouraged a lot of unwholesome practices by mortuary attendants. There are stories of the sale of human parts. Besides, most of the mortuaries are housed in ramshackle buildings, and reek of filth and decaying bodies. Corpses are washed in the open, to the gaze of everyone, and kept in unrefrigerated and dirty containers, making them to decompose at will. To compound the situation, water used in bathing the dead is improperly disposed of as it is often carelessly poured on the ground where it can easily seep into shallow wells. These dead bodies are also piled on top of one another with fluids from those on upper cabinet freely dripping to those beneath.

While it may not be the fault of the health authorities that there are large unclaimed bodies in mortuary facilities, they should make conscious efforts to ensure every corpse is buried with dignity irrespective of how long they may have been abandoned. Beyond that, there is the immediate issue of how relevant authorities treat the dead, including in the announcements. The case of Parradang presents a glaring example. The police must embrace a more respectful culture of reporting the circumstances under which death occurred so as not to aggravate the grief of deceased families.

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

WHY I’M PASSIONATE ABOUT GIRLS' EMPOWERMENT

Give girls the power to dream, lead, and create, and they will shape a brighter, stronger, and better world.

I’ll never forget what happened to a bright young girl who happened to be our former neighbour while growing up as a teenager. She was full of dreams but trapped by circumstances.

She sometimes picks and repairs her household bad-working condition electronics without being taught the skills. She had a sharp mind, an eagerness to learn as impressive as that, but no access to quality education.

Her parents prioritized her brothers' schooling, believing she only needed basic literacy before marriage. That moment changed everything for me; coupled with many others that I later encountered as I grew up.

Too many girls are held back, not by lack of potential, but by lack of opportunity and societal narratives. Thousands are denied education, left out of leadership conversations, or given limited choices when it comes to their health and future.

Imagine the innovations, solutions, and transforma-

tions the world is missing because we fail to invest in them. Education isn’t just about books, it’s about empowerment.

When a girl learns, she gains confidence.

When she understands her health, she makes informed choices. When she develops leadership skills, she paves the way for others.

Yet, in many places, cultural norms, economic hardship, and outdated beliefs still rob girls of these opportunities. This is why I advocate, mentor, and create initiatives that give young girls the tools they need to lead, thrive, and break barriers.

But I can’t do it alone.

How can we do better for the next generation?

Share your thoughts, initiatives, or ideas in the comments. Let’s shape a future where every girl has the power to rise!

Grace Ehi Ekainu, an educator and creative writer, Kano State

NO INFLUENCE ON ME

Like many sane, and a bit older people I have wondered about the nature and purpose of 'influencers'. This concern has been highlighted by the stupidity of an influencer, Sam Jones, who stole a baby wombat from her mother. Yes, as an Australian, I appreciate the irony of that given how many aboriginal mums had their baby's stolen from them.

There are legal consequences of harming native animals, but rather than face that possibility, she took the cowards approach and fled the country immediately. How could she think stealing a baby animal would improve her image?

The purpose, and appreciation, of influencers escapes me as I tend to make up my own mind on what I want to pay for, or accept my partners wisdom. There have always been ads based on the popularity of a sports person even though they were usually more comedians than influence.

It seems that we should seek guidance from wiser people, ignore social media and live our own life without the influence of mostly pretty airheads.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia

LAWYER

TUeSday, M a RCH 18, 2025

Frequent Grid Collapse: Causes and Effects

MiniSTeR of poweR, adebayo adelabU

Quotables

‘We must not allow the enemies of democracy, to derail our democratic process. It is also a challenge to those who are in power, the Federal, State, Local Government….By seriously addressing the crises of poverty, injustice, illegal arrest, detention without trial…...’ - Femi Falana, SAN

‘Now that the Supreme Court has drawn the Governor’s attention to his malfeasance, we believe that the Governor will take heed and begin to do the right things, in line with our Constitution.’ - Hon. Martin Amaewhule, Speaker, Rivers State House of Assembly

Effect of Absence of NBA Stamp and Seal of Law Officer on Processes

Page IV

2025 NBA AGC: Julius Malema Confirmed as Keynote Speaker

Page V

Digital Rights: EU Warns Against Violation in Nigeria

Page V

NBA Remuneration Committee Urges All Banks to Comply with Legal Practitioners Remuneration Order 2023

Page V

'Disciplinary Injunction': Considering the Suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan from the Senate

Page VI

Senate Vs Akpoti-Uduaghan: A Case of ‘Two Fighting’

Background

I had decided that I wouldn’t spend any more time on the ongoing saga between SP Akpabio, the Senate and Senator Natasha Akpoti, because like Senator Shehu Sani pointed out in an interview last week on Channels TV’s Politics Today, and another Senator from Osun State also stated on the floor of the Senate Chamber, the disagreement is not about nation building, the living conditions of Nigerians, lawmaking or constitutional functions of the Senate, but, rather, it’s about an issue triggered by the sitting arrangement in the Senate Chamber, culminating in an allegation of sexual harassment against SP Akpabio by Senator Akpoti, and an unlawful suspension as a result of alleged misconduct by Senator Akpoti on the Senate floor. See Speaker, Bauchi State House of Assembly v Rifikatu Samson Danna (2017) 49 W.R.N. (CA) and Sections 14(2)(c) & 42(1)(a) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended)(the Constitution) on the issue of suspension from the Senate. Last week, I exhausted myself on why Senator Akpoti’s suspension is unconstitutional, and supported this position with case law. There’s no need to repeat it. However, I must restate the fact that I am a woman, and I have zero tolerance for sexual harassment, be it men against women, vice versa (or same sex).

Deeper Matters Arising

But, on the surface, though it looks like ’two fighting’ or bickering between two Senators, it goes beyond that. For starters, it highlights the drastic decline in many Nigerian institutions, weakening as the years go by, many falling to an all time low, and others qualifying as weak institutions, because unfortunately, they are populated by those who lack capacity, and their output isn’t based upon proper structures that should have been put in place for their optimal performance.

1) Whether the Senate Standing Orders 2023 (SSO) permits suspension or not, the SSO inferior to the Constitution. See the case of Saraki v FRN (2016) LPELR-40013(SC) per Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, JSC (later CJN). And, to the extent that such suspension is unconstitutional, it shows a lack of respect for the grundnorm and the rule of law on the part of the Senate; for the highest lawmaking body in the land to go ahead to proclaim their disregard to the world with such gusto and aplomb (relish too). How unfortunate! Two wrongs, certainly do not make a right. The fact that Senator Akpoti may have breached the rules of the Senate, doesn’t allow the Senate to mete out to her, a punishment that is unlawful. It is worse that members of the leadership of the Senate, are qualified Lawyers. This does not augur well for our democracy, and the optics are awful. I found it both troubling and appalling that, after much ado, at a plenary session, the Senators would still pass a voice resolution upholding the suspension of Senator Akpoti for six months unless she submits a written apology to the Senate, when her suspension is clearly unlawful.

The Seventh Schedule to the Constitution contains, inter alia, the Oath of a Member of the National Assembly, which includes performing their functions in accordance to the Constitution, as well as preserving, protecting and defending the Constitution. Breaching the provisions of the Constitution amounts to contravening their oath of office, and is contrary to Paragraph 9 of the Code of Conduct for Public Officers Fifth Schedule to the Constitution, and such erring Public Officer (see also Paragraph 1 of the Fifth Schedule to the Constitution Paragraph 3 Part II Public Officers for the Purposes of the Code of Conduct) can be reported to the Code of Conduct Bureau where they can face the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), at which, if they are found guilty, can mete out various sanctions, including vacation of office or seat in any legislative house (see Fifth Schedule to the Constitution Code of Conduct Tribunal Paragraph 18, particularly 18(2)(a)). Of course, such decision of the CCT can lie on appeal to the Court of Appeal. All the bickering Senators should bear this in mind, and know their limits.

2) Section 6(6)(b) of the Constitution allows all matters pertaining to the determination of the civil rights and obligations of a person, to be determined by the court. The only matters that aren’t justiciable are those excepted by Section 6(6)(c) of the Constitution, that is, those pertaining to the Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy. While it is understandable that issues concerning the day to day functioning of Legislature may not be those that should be adjudicated upon, it goes without saying that if someone’s fundamental rights are breached on the floor of any Legislature, it falls within the Section 6(6)(b) matters. If someone was murdered in a fight between two Senators

onIkePo BraIThwaITe

onikepo braithwaite

onikepo.braithwaite@thisdaylive. com onikepob@yahoo.com

The Advocate

“I must restate the fact that I am a woman, and I have zero tolerance for sexual harassment…. In her submission to the IPU, Senator Akpoti….. omitted to mention the issue of her misconduct on the floor of the Senate, and attributed her unlawful suspension from the Senate, solely to the fact that it was because she made sexual harassment allegations against SP Akpabio. This is not true….Senator Akpoti appeared to have breached the SSO in full public glare”

during the course of the proceedings of the House, would they not be arrested? Senator Akpoti would be well within her rights to go to court to pray the court that for one, her fundamental right to fair hearing may likely to be breached by the Senate Committee on Ethics - Sections 36(1) & 46(1) of the Constitution allow her to do so. This is not the same as, interfering in the normal day to day functioning of the Senate. Be that as it may, it is trite that the Senate should have obeyed the court order, as a court order is valid and binding until it is set aside. See the case of Kubor & Anor v Dickson & Ors (2012) LPELR-9817(SC) per Clara Bata Ogunbiyi, JSC.

The other side of the argument is that the SSO provides that any matter that has judicial remedy cannot be brought by way of petition to the Senate. Sexual harassment is a criminal offence with judicial remedy. I am therefore surprised that even at the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), Senator Akpoti, a Lawyer who should be conversant with the SSO, is still talking about re-presenting her sexual harassment petition to the Senate Committee. If she has a case, by now, she should have reported the matter to the Police, so that it can be filed in a court of competent jurisdiction and prosecuted. After all, unlike the Executive, SP Akpabio doesn’t enjoy the Section 308 immunity from suit and legal process while in office. I also read the IPU’s Complaint Form, and Question 18 thereof also asks if the Complainant has reported the complaint to the appropriate authorities, and if not, requests for an explanation for not doing so. Why hasn’t Senator Akpoti taken the proper steps, regarding her sexual harassment allegation?

It is quite embarrassing and shameful, that members of the highest legislative body in the land, are not conversant with

the Constitution, the laws they enact or even their own Rules.

3) Senator Akpoti’s allegations of sexual harassment against SP Akpabio, are entirely different from any alleged misconduct by her in the chamber of the Senate. Sexual harassment is a malaise which happens all over the world, including Nigeria. It is a serious matter that must not be taken lightly, particularly because of the many who are subjected to this degrading treatment. See Section 34(1)(a) of the Constitution. A case in view is that of the Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Foreign Affairs who appears to have been notorious for allegedly sexually harassing women, even to the extent of taking it beyond the shores of Nigeria. It is reported that he was about to be declared as ‘persona non grata’, in Canada, which in diplomatic terms, means someone who is no longer welcome in a place, before he was brought back to Nigeria. There is an allegation against him in Senegal, that he threatened a female Bank Official who was able to expose him by substantiating her allegations against him, because she had a recording of the incident. Several other ladies have come out with the same sexual harassment allegations against the Permanent Secretary, including an aide to the Minister of Foreign Affairs. The recording of him in Senegal is certainly strong prima facie evidence against the Permanent Secretary, that he is quite capable of sexual harassment.

4) IPU

Senator Akpoti took her matter to the IPU, which doesn’t appear to have any punitive powers, even though one of its functions is to defend the fundamental rights of Parliamentarians of member countries.

There are several issues of fundamental rights in this circumstance - the unconstitutional suspension of Senator Akpoti, her allegation of sexual harassment against SP Akpabio, the right to fair hearing for both of them, SP Akpabio’s right to respect and dignity, particularly if the allegations against him are unsubstantiated. See the case of NDPHC Ltd v Michael (2024) LPELR-79937(SC) per Tijjani Abubakar, JSC. In her submission to the IPU, Senator Akpoti talked about the malaise of sexual harassment in the political space and educational institutions in Nigeria, and the fact that there are so few women in the Senate - these are cogent issues. She however, omitted to mention the issue of her misconduct on the floor of the Senate, and attributed her unlawful suspension from the Senate, solely to the fact that it was because she made sexual harassment allegations against SP Akpabio. This is not true. We cannot ignore the fact that Senator Akpoti appeared to have breached the SSO in full public glare, and that even if there may be more to it than meets the eye as she claims, that’s the reason the Senate gave for the unlawful suspension. If we are to be fair, we cannot discountenance what most Nigerians who watch television, saw transpire on the floor of the Senate on February 20, 2025 - Senator Akpoti failed to take her assigned seat; she insisted on being recognised standing; she disobeyed the Senate President, whose word is final; she spoke in loud tones - in short, she didn’t exactly portray the decorum that is required by the Behaviour of Senators of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in the SSO, whatever may have been the provocation. While courtesy may demand that a Senator be informed prior to their seat being changed, it may not be mandatory that a Senator must be informed before such action is taken.

Weeks after Senator Akpoti made such a weighty allegation against SP Akpabio, she still didn’t seize the opportunity on the global IPU platform to buttress her sexual allegation claims with any evidence, and many are wondering why. Or maybe the proof is included in Question 18 of the IPU Form, which requests for detailed information of the alleged human rights violation. Question 7 asks that if the rights violation complained of is by a female Parliamentarian, whether the violations are gender based, directed against women. Senator Akpoti appears to be the first female Senator to be suspended, during the subsistence of the Fourth Republic, even though there have been other female Senators since 1999. Those who have been suspended are all men - Senators Nzeribe, Ali Ndume, Omo Agege, Abdul Ningi, Joseph Waku and Femi Okurounmu; so one cannot safely conclude that Senator Akpoti’s suspension is gender related.

Conclusion

We see evidence of wrongdoing, on the parts of both the Senate and Senator Akpoti. It is disgraceful. It would have been desirable for Senator Akpoti to reveal at least one piece of evidence she has against SP Akpabio, particularly as she has gone global with her allegations of sexual harassment. For the multitude of women (and men) who have had to pass through this horrible malaise of sexual harassment, it could be unfair to belittle their terrible experiences by crying wolf without showing there is a wolf. It is puzzling that for someone who is vocal, and one who is seen to fight boldly for her rights, she didn’t reveal that information at the earliest opportunity, let alone on the IPU platform. Going forward, women mustn’t make it more difficult for women who have these complaints, to be believed. As Lawyers, that is, Senators Akpabio, Akpoti and I, we are well aware that it is trite that, ‘he who alleges must prove’. And, while I do not expect Senator Akpoti to provide proof beyond every shadow of doubt (see Stephen v State (2013) LPELR-20178(SC) per John Afolabi Fabiyi, JSC), any reasonable person, by now, expects to see some proof (also see the American case of Anita Hill v Justice Clarence Thomas (1991)). Senator Akpoti’s submission to the IPU omitting material facts about her behaviour in the Senate Chamber, is being economical with the truth, and may be perceived as trying to make herself appear to be totally blameless in order to further her cause. But, like I said last week, her punishment for alleged misconduct on the Senate floor, shouldn’t have been more than sending her home for the rest of the legislative day.

For those who say that SP Akpabio has been rather silent about the allegations levelled against him, the burden of proof initially lies on Senator Akpoti who has alleged the sexual misconduct, and only after that is discharged does it shift to SP Akpabio to disprove the allegation. Lastly, the Senate has portrayed Nigeria to the world, as being an unserious country! We have been plagued with insurgency, insecurity poverty, possibly the highest number of out-of-school children in the world and economic crises, and instead of concentrating on these crucial issues, we prefer to spend our time taking the ‘two fighting’ global!

Senate President, Godswill akpabio

Senator natasha akpoti-Uduaghan

Effect of Absence of NBA Stamp and Seal of Law Officer on Processes

Facts

The Appellant was arraigned along with one Yahaya Ayodeji (2nd accused) before the trial court, on a 10-count Amended Charge bordering on offences of criminal conspiracy and deriving benefit from contracts emanating from their place of employment, contrary to Sections 12 and 26 of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission Act 2000. The charge was preferred by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

The Appellant was the Procurement Officer of a World Bank Project known as Economic Reform and Governance Project (ERGP), domiciled in the office of the Accountant-General of the Federation. While occupying the office, contracts relating to the project were awarded to two companies, namely AY-Quest Worldwide Ltd (where one Abdullahi Dogonyaro Mohammed, found to be the same person as the Appellant, as well as the 2nd Defendant had interests as directors and shareholders) and Q-Bridgers Worldwide Synergy Ltd, where the said Abdullahi Dogonyaro Mohammed was a shareholder and director.

At the conclusion of trial, the court found the Appellant and the co-accused guilty of counts 1, 3, 4, 5 and 9 of the charge and sentenced them to 7 years imprisonment each; while on Counts 2, 6, 7, 8 and 10, the Appellant alone was convicted and sentenced to 7 years imprisonment, both sentences to run concurrently. Dissatisfied with judgement of the trial court, the Appellant appealed to the Court of Appeal. At the close of hearing, the Court of Appeal dismissed the appeal for lacking in merit and affirmed the conviction and sentence of the Appellant. Displeased, the Appellant appealed to the Supreme Court.

Issue for Determination

The Supreme Court considered the following issues for determination of the appeal:

i. Whether the Lower Court was wrong to hold that the absence of Counsel’s stamp and seal on the amended 10 count charge preferred against the Appellant by the Prosecution, did not rob the trial Court of jurisdiction to determine the charge. ii. Whether the lower Court was right in holding that the Prosecution proved the charge against the Appellant beyond reasonable doubt?

Arguments

Arguing the first issue, Counsel for the Appellant submitted that the Amended 10-count charge was incurably defective and robbed the trial court of jurisdiction, since the charge was not signed and sealed in accordance to the provisions of Rule 10(1), (2) and (3) of the Rules of Professional Conduct, 2007 (“RPC”). Counsel submitted further that C.O. Ugwu Esq. who signed the Amended Charge did not affix his seal, that the seal on the charge is that of another Lawyer, Sylvanus Tahir, and that it is not the intent of the drafters of Section 2(1) and 24 of the Legal Practitioners Act and Rule 10(1) and (2) of the RPC for a court process to be signed by one Lawyer a seal affixed by another Lawyer. Finally, under this issue, Counsel argued that the court below misconceived the intent of Section 3 of the Law Officers Act, when it held that it was applicable to the EFCC. He argued that the provision does not cure defect in the charge, and urged the court to resolve issue one in favour of the Appellant.

In response, Counsel for the Respondent argued that the absence of Counsel’s seal on the amended charge rendered it irregular, but didn’t void the charge; and that the irregularity of the process does not affect the jurisdiction of the court. In addition, Counsel submitted that by Section 3 of the Law Officers Act, the Respondent’s Counsel doesn’t need the stamp and seal of the NBA to identify and authenticate him as a Barrister, Advocate and Solicitor of the Supreme Court. Counsel posited that by the definition of a Law Officer in the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015 (ACJA), Law Officers also include officers of the EFCC and other such agencies.

On issue two, Counsel for the Appellant argued that the court below was wrong to have affirmed the conviction of the Appellant based on the

In the Supreme Court of Nigeria Holden at abuja

On Friday, the 19th day of July, 2024

Before their lordships adamu Jauro

Jummai Hannatu Sankey

Obande Festus Ogbuinya Habeeb adewale Olumuyiwa abiru

Mohammed Baba Idris Justices, Supreme Court SC.853/2018

Between MOHaMMed dOGONyaRO audu

aPPeLLaNT and

FedeRaL RePuBLIC OF NIGeRIa

ReSPONdeNT (Lead Judgement delivered by Honourable Jummai Hannatu Sankey, JSC)

evidence on record. Counsel contended that the court below and the trial court both erred, when they held that the Respondent had discharged the burden of proof placed on it by law. Specifically, that for count one, Exhibit G being the statement of a co-accused, cannot be used to establish the offence of conspiracy as the statement of a co-accused, except adopted, cannot be used against an accused. Counsel submitted further that (i) the Respondent failed to prove the identity of the Appellant and that the evidence of PW3, a Forensic Examiner with the Respondent, who examined the specimen signatures of the Appellant, did not establish the identity of the Appellant; (ii) the Court of Appeal was wrong to have refused to expunge Exhibits A-H which were erroneously admitted in evidence.

In response, Counsel for the Respondent submitted that both the trial court and the Court of Appeal were right in holding that the Respondent proved the elements of the offences for which the Appellant stood trial. He therefore, urged the court not to interfere with the concurrent findings of the lower courts; more so, that the Appellant did not

“Counsel from the EFCC…were Law Officers…and by this, they are deemed to be Barristers, Solicitors and Advocates of the Supreme Court….affixing the stamp and seal on the charge as required, becomes superfluous in the case of law officers who are deemed by law to be Solicitors and Advocates of the Supreme Court. Thus, a Law Officer already deemed by Law/Statute to be a genuine Legal Practitioner/Lawyer, cannot be disqualified for neglecting, omitting or failing to affix his stamp and seal on a court process”

court process. More so, it is settled law that the absence of the seal and stamp of Counsel renders a process filed in court irregular, and is not capable of affecting the jurisdiction of the court. - YAKI v BAGUDU (2015) ALL FWLR (PT. 810) 1026. Issue one was therefore, resolved against the Appellant.

Deciding the second issue, the Apex Court held that contrary to the description ascribed to Exhibit G by the Appellant, the statement of the co-accused was certainly not a confession as it was not direct, positive and unequivocal. Rather, it greatly equivocated, in that the co-accused, while admitting to having a joint interest with the Appellant in the company, AY Quest Ltd, denied using the company to execute any contract with the World Bank Project in the Accountant-General’s office as stated in the charge for conspiracy. Secondly, that there were numerous other independent pieces of evidence, outside Exhibit G, presented by the prosecution in proof of the offence of conspiracy against the Appellant. Thus, the offence of conspiracy against the Appellant was established by credible evidence, even without Exhibit G, the statement of the co-accused. Furthermore, resolving the argument on the failure to prove the Appellant’s identity, the Supreme Court held that, from the Record of Appeal, the identity of the Appellant was clearly established through credible evidence presented by the Respondent such as Exhibits A and B, the account opening package and statements of account of the two companies in question and the CAC documents showing the ownership of both companies respectively – which all had the Appellant’s real name, signature, photograph and address. Additionally, PW3 who established his credentials as a highly trained and experienced Forensics Examiner analysed five sets of signatures signed by the Appellant in open court and showed that they all belonged to the same person, notwithstanding the slight variation in the names on some of the documents.

show how the concurrent findings were perverse. Counsel also argued that the statement of the co-accused - Exhibit G, was not a confessional statement. To amount to a confession, it must be positive, direct and infer that the maker committed the offence. On the identity of the Appellant, Counsel submitted that the exhibits on record, among others, contain the name, picture, signature and address of the Appellant and all point to the Appellant. Finally, Counsel urged the court to hold that the Respondent proved the private interest of the Appellant in the contracts, and contrary to the submission of the Appellant, all the Exhibits tendered were admissible in law.

Court’s Judgement and Rationale Deciding the first issue, Their Lordships held that, the Amended Charge was not defective for the reason canvassed by the Appellant, and even in the total absence of the stamp and seal of Counsel, it was still a competent charge, as such an omission only rendered the charge irregular and thus, voidable, and not void. The Supreme Court was also in total agreement with the Court of Appeal that Counsel from the EFCC who prosecuted the case were Law Officers covered by Section 3 of the Law Officers Act, Laws of the Federation, 2014 and by this, they are deemed to be Barristers, Solicitors and Advocates of the Supreme Court of Nigeria. That being the case, affixing the stamp and seal on the charge as required, becomes superfluous in the case of law officers who are deemed by law to be Solicitors and Advocates of the Supreme Court. Thus, a Law Officer already deemed by Law/Statute to be a genuine Legal Practitioner/Lawyer, cannot be disqualified for neglecting, omitting or failing to affix his stamp and seal on a

On the argument about admissibility of Exhibits D and E, the Supreme Court held that the proceedings of the trial court, as contained in the record of appeal, disclose that the Appellant did not object to the admissibility of the documents when tendered by the Respondent. Thus, the Appellant waived the right to challenge these documents, and couldn’t purport to do so on appeal before the Court of Appeal or the Supreme Court – JOHN v THE STATE (2011) LPELR-8152(SC) 17-19. The Apex Court also agreed with the Respondent that both documents were duly certified by the 2nd accused person, from whose custody it emanated and acting as a public officer, in satisfaction of Section 104(1) and (2) of the Evidence Act 2011. Regarding the contention that no legal fees was paid for the certification, the court held that it was not shown that legal fees were prescribed for certification of documents from the office of the Accountant-General. Distinguishing the provisions of Section 104 of the Evidence Act 2011 from the provisions of Section 111(1) of the Evidence Act, 1990 (which was interpreted in TABIK INVESTMENT LTD v GTB PLC (2011) 17 NWLR (PT. 1276) 240), the Supreme Court held that while the provisions are similar on requirement for payment of legal fees for certification, Section 104 qualifies the requirement with the words - “prescribed in that respect”. This refers to legal fees laid down by the body, organisation or person in the custody of a public document, and on whom a demand is made for a certified true copy of that document. Thus, where the body, organisation or person in the custody of a public document and on whom a demand is made for a certified true copy does not have a prescribed legal fee for the issuance of a certified true copy of the document, then the payment of legal fees cannot be a mandatory requirement for the certification of a document. It is not compulsory or obligatory otherwise. Issue two was therefore, resolved against the Appellant.

In conclusion, the Supreme Court held that the Appellant had failed to fulfil any of the conditions that would warrant the court to interfere with the findings of fact of the Lower Courts.

Appeal Dismissed.

Representation

E. O. Adekwu with C. Atakpa for the Appellant. C. O. Ugwu for the Respondent.

Reported by Optimum

(An affiliate of Babalakin & Co.)

Honourable Jummai Hannatu Sankey, JSC

L-R: Executive Director, Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD), Yunusa Ya'au; Digital Technologies Lawyer, France and USA, Hannah Marie; Board Member, Avocats Sans Frontières France (ASF), Ivan Paneff and Programme Manager, European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Wynyfred Achu-Egbuson, during the training of Lawyers and Judges on Digital Rights by ASF France in Abuja recently Emeka Obegolu, SAN

2025 NBA AGC: Julius Malema Confirmed as Keynote Speaker

Alex Enumah in a buja

South Africa’s fiery Politician and Human Rights crusader, Julius Malema has been confirmed as the Keynote Speaker at this year’s Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association scheduled to hold in Port Harcourt in August, 2025.

Julius Malema is the President, Economic Freedom Fighters, South Africa. Born on March 3, 1981, in Seshego, Limpopo , he’s a prominent South African political leader and activist. His political journey spans over 30 years, starting with grassroots activism in COSAS and the ANC Youth League, eventually leading to the formation of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in 2013.

Known for his fearless leadership, Malema

advocates for economic liberation, youth empowerment, and social

justice.

Despite controversies and opposition, he

remains a powerful voice for the marginalised.

He holds multiple

and

Digital Rights: EU Warns Against Violation in Nigeria

Enock Reuben in abuja

The European Union, EU, has called for better protection for the rights of Nigerians in the digital sphere, and urged the Government to do more to curb the rising violation of citizens' rights to information. This call was made last Thursday, at the opening of the two-day training for Judges and Lawyers on digital rights in Abuja. The training was organised by the EU under the e-RIGHTS Project through Avocats Sans Frontières in conjunction with the Centre for Information Technology and Development, CITAD and Spaces For Change.

Speaking at the event was the EU Programme Manager for Society Youth and Hu-

man Rights, delegation to ECOWAS and Nigeria, Wynyfred Achu-Egbuson, she said any society that suppresses online freedom is invariably an attack on democracy, digital rights are human rights which must be protected. She also said “Nigerians have experienced a ban on twitter, several attempts to legislate regulations that could infringe on the rights of citizens, arrests of citizens due to their posts online, to mention a few”.

“It is crucial for people not to only recognise how these advancements have reshaped fundamental human rights such as freedom of expression and access to information, but also to understand that they have given rise to new rights.

Criminal Complaint Against Nollywood Actress, Lizzy Anjorin Dismissed

Stories by Steve Aya

An Upper Area Court I in Ilorin, Kwara State, has dismissed the criminal complaint suit filed against popular Nollywood actress and businesswoman, Elizabeth Anjorin, also known as Lizzy Anjorin.

The legal dispute, which involved Saheed Mosadoluwa (Ibile) and Harmony Gardens and Estate Development Limited, saw intense legal arguments from both sides.

A. M. Abdulraheem, represented the Complainant, while Lizzy Anjorin was defended by a team of Lawyers, including Prof O. Y. Abdulhamid, I. M. Adedo, Taofeeq Olateju, and Abdullahi.

The Attorney-General’s intervention took over the case, and applied for its termination.

Presiding over the matter, Yunus Kayode granted the Attorney- General’s

application, resulting in the dismissal of both the initial complaint filed on February 26, 2025, and the counter-complaint filed on March 11, 2025.

In delivering the judgement on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, the court stated,

“Having listened to the submissions from the Complainant’s Counsel and that of the Defendant, and particularly the application of the Attorney-General to take up this case and pray for termination of the case, on this premise, the direct complaint dated February 24, 2025, and the cross-complaint dated March 11, 2025, are hereby terminated and the Defendants are hereby discharged”.

In an interview on Friday, Lizzy Anjorin, described the case as a “cross-sue”, stating that she and the Complainant became Defendants.

“The case bordered on a land dispute, and it all happened in Lagos. But, the

Complainant went ahead to file a criminal suit against me in Ilorin, Kwara State. When I got there, I presented my evidence, cross-sued and both of us became Defendants.

“I was summoned on Friday based on his case and I showed up, but, we counter-sued him, and on Tuesday, they sent his summons but he didn’t show up, and when they wanted to continue with the case we filed against him, I withdrew it”, Anjorin said.

“However, sessions and events of this nature enhance understanding of what other parts of the world are doing, and review what is being done in Nigeria to determine whether it is fit for purpose or there are needs for adjustments and how these adjustments can be done.”

Also at the occasion, the Nigerian Bar Association,

which was represented by the Assistant General Secretary, Mr Henry Barnabas, highly commended the EU and AFS for the training. He admitted to the rampant cases of arrest of internet operators in Nigeria. He said that NBA will continue to protect and defend digital rights, in Nigeria.

In the same vein, the Executive Director, Centre

for Information Technology Agency Development (CITAD), Mr Yunusa Ya-au, has expressed support for Avocats Sans Frontières (ASF) France on its move to enhance digital rights in Nigeria, through the e-RIGHTS project which also enjoys the support of the European Union. He encouraged Lawyers to rise up to the task, by taking up cases of digital rights violation.

NBA Remuneration Committee Urges All Banks to Comply with Legal Practitioners Remuneration Order 2023

The Nigerian Bar Association Remuneration Committee, led by Chief Emeka Obegolu, SAN, has formally notified all Banks in Nigeria, to comply with the Legal Practitioners’ Remuneration Order 2023, which took effect on May 16, 2023.

The Order, issued under Section 15(3) of the Legal Practitioners Act, sets a minimum fee structure for legal services, including property transactions and advisory work, to ensure fairness and transparency. Key provisions prohibit Lawyers from accepting fees below the prescribed rates, and mandate compliance with the Order for all legal engagements. The NBA warned that non-compliance may result in regulatory sanctions, and urged all Banks to integrate the Order’s provisions into their operations.

Court Bars FCCPC from Penalising Multichoice over Tariff Hike

An Abuja Federal High Court has barred the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) from taking any punitive actions against MultiChoice Nigeria Ltd, in connection with the recent increase in DStv and GOtv subscription rates.

Justice James Omotosho issued the order on Wednesday, following an ex-parte motion filed by Moyosore Onigbanjo, SAN, Counsel for MultiChoice.

The motion, marked FHC/ ABJ/CS/379/2025, sought

to prevent the FCCPC from implementing any sanctions against the company until the determination of a pending motion for an interlocutory injunction.

The FCCPC had summoned MultiChoice to appear for a hearing on February 27, to explain its March 1 price hike for subscription packages.

The Commission expressed concerns over recurring price increases, possible abuse of market dominance, and anti-competitive practices in the pay-TV sector. It warned

that failure to provide sufficient justification for the price adjustments, could lead to sanctions.

In response, MultiChoice filed a suit on March 3, challenging the FCCPC’s authority to regulate subscription fees. Onigbanjo argued that Nigeria operates a free-market economy, where businesses are not required to seek Government approval before adjusting prices. He also pointed out that, the FCCPC Act does not empower the Commission to control pricing.

Thai Lady Convicted for Smuggling 46.60kg of Marijuana into Nigeria

The Federal High Court, Lagos, has convicted and sentenced a Thai lady, Patthaphi Wimonnat, to five years imprisonment, for smuggling 46.60 kg of Cannabis Sativa popularly called Marijuana into Nigeria.

Justice Ambrose LewisAllagoa convicted and sentenced the lady to the jail-term on Friday, after she pleaded guilty to one count charge brought against her by the National Drug

Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

The convicted Thai, according to the NDLEA Prosecutor, Abu Ibrahim, was arrested with the Cannabis Sativa, on February 20, 2025, at the arrival Hall of Terminal 2, Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos, during the inward clearance of passengers aboard Qatar Airways flight from Thailand via Doha, Qatar.

Abu had told the court that the illegal actions of the convicted Thailand citizen, contravened Section 11(a) of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Act Cap. N30, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004, and punishable under the same Act.

The convicted Thai admitted committing the illegal act, and pleaded guilty to the charge. Based on her guilty plea, the Prosecutor, while

citing plethoras of authorities, urged the court to convict and sentence her based on her guilty plea, exhibits tendered. However, the convict through her team of Lawyers, begged the court to temper justice with mercy, adding that the convict was deceived into making such a mistake. The Lawyers also told the court that the convict has “become remorseful and would do something differently if given a second chance”.

Julius Malema

degrees from UNISA

is pursuing a Master’s degree at Wits

University, while serving as a Member of the South African Parliament.

This article by Sylvester Udemezue isn’t a commentary aboºut the merit of the accusations by, or actions of the Senate leadership against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, nor about the propriety or legality of Senate's power of discipline against its members, nor about the allegations by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against the Senate President, but a focus on examining the extent of legal propriety and validity (if any) of the proceedings and procedural steps leading to suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan on March 6, 2025

Background

Dissatisfied with the Senate resolution to refer her to the Senate’s Disciplinary Committee, Senator AkpotiUduaghan had proceeded to Court to seek redress in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/384/2025. On 05 March, 2025, the Federal High Court issued an interim injunction restraining the Senate from conducting disciplinary proceedings against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, following an altercation with Senate President Part Godswill Akpabio on February 20, 2025. According to the document, the Kogi Senator prayed that the court grant an order restraining the Senate and its Ethics Committee from 'proceeding with the purported investigation' against her. Akpoti-Uduaghan asked the court to grant an order 'declaring that any action taken during the pendency of this suit is null, void, and of no effect whatsoever'. The Kogi Senator also prayed for a court order allowing the Defendants to be served with the originating summons and other related documents through substituted means. 'An order of this honourable court granting an Interim Injunction restraining the 2nd Defendant/Defendant’s Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Code of Conduct headed by the 4th Defendant from proceeding with the purported investigation against the Plaintiff/Applicant for alleged misconduct sequel to the events that occurred at the plenary of the 2nd Defendant on the 20th day of February, 2025, pursuant to the referral by the 2nd Defendant on 25th February, 2025 pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice for Interlocutory Injunction’, a part of the application read. In his decision, the trial Judge, Justice Egwuatu ruled that the Defendants should come and show cause within 72 hours, upon the service of the order, why an interlocutory injunction should not be issued against them. Justice Egwuatu granted the prayer that the Defendants should be served by substituted means. The Judge adjourned the case to March 10, 2025, for the Defendants to show why the Applicant’s reliefs should not be granted.

Professor Ali Ahmad

However, Professor of Law and former Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Ali Ahmad, faulted the interim injunction from courts stopping the National Assembly from performing its constitutional function. In a chat with Daily Trust in Lagos shortly after the injunction, Prof Ahmad said:

“It is unfortunate that the court has just issued an interim order, stopping the Senate from performing its constitutional function. This is an aberration. Sections 4,5,6 of the Constitution grants each of the arms of government its distinct powers, adding, It’s wrong for an arm of government to purport to stop another arm from exercising its constitutionally donated powers, it cannot do that. When a court stops the Senate from performing its constitutionally guaranteed powers, it’s not done anywhere, it’s just like the assembly and the executive passing a law and assenting to the law, to say that the court cannot pass the judgement, that it is unconstitutional, or National Assembly passing a resolution that the President cannot sign a budget or cannot present a budget. These are presidential executive powers. Judicial powers, nobody can stop the Judiciary, legislative powers of investigation under Section 88, no court in the land can stop them. So, if a court is now issuing an interim order to stop the ethics and privileges committee, I’m not saying what the Senate President did is good or not, I’m concerned about the powers of the legislature. This has gone far, for too long. There have been several judgements, even in the Appeal Court, saying procedurally, no court can stop the National Assembly from performing its legislative, investigative function especially in this matter when the investigation centres on another Senator. Our courts should be mindful of granting interim orders. It is an abuse of the judicial powers, and it should stop. That is my honest opinion. Look at the Diezani (former Petroleum Minister) cases, the Senate wanted to investigate but she would rush to court for interim orders which are all unconstitutional, stopping the Senate, the National Assembly from performing its constitutionally mandated functions. We have said it, but the courts continue to do that. Something should be done. No interim order can stop the National Assembly from performing its constitutionally mandated power in Section 4. Judiciary purports to use its power under

'Disciplinary Injunction': Considering the Suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan from the Senate

This article by Sylvester Udemezue isn’t a commentary about the merit of the accusations by, or actions of the Senate leadership against Senator Natasha akpotiuduaghan, nor about the propriety or legality of Senate's power of discipline against its members, nor about the allegations by Senator Natasha akpoti-uduaghan against the Senate President, but a focus on examining the extent of legal propriety and validity (if any) of the proceedings and procedural steps leading to suspension of Senator Natasha akpoti-uduaghan on March 6, 2025

Section 6. Section 6 is not above Section 4, neither are both sections above Section 5. Sections 4, 5 and 6 are on the same plain.” [See: *"Natasha: It’s an aberration for courts to stop Senate from performing its duty – Ex-Kwara Speaker"*; 06 March 2025; Daily Trust]

Questions and Answers

One question arising from Prof Ali Ahmad's suggestions, is whether the Senate is entitled to disobey or flagrantly flout an order of a court of law, on the ground that the Senate believes that "no court can stop the National Assembly from performing its legislative, investigative function, especially in this matter when the investigation centres on another Senator", or because the Senate thinks that "It’s wrong for an arm of government to purport to stop another arm from exercising its constitutionally donated powers?" The second question arising, is this: What is the proper course of conduct on the part of the Senate, whenever the Senate feels that a court of law has improperly issued a restraining order against the Senate? With due respect, while I agree that "it’s wrong for an arm of government to purport to stop another arm from exercising its constitutionally donated powers", I respectfully submit that the Senate of the Federal Republic is not entitled, nor at liberty to disobey any order of a court of law, however perverse or wrong or improper the Senate thinks the order is. Disobedience of a court order is an act of grave contempt against the institution of administration of justice, and an affront against the rule of law. The right step open to the Senate where it believes that a restraining order has been improperly made by a court against the Senate, is to take necessary legal steps to have such a restraining order set aside or otherwise vacated.

“I respectfully submit that the Senate of the Federal Republic is not entitled, nor at liberty to disobey any order of a court of law, however perverse or wrong or improper the Senate thinks the order is. Disobedience of a court order is an act of grave contempt against the institution of administration of justice, and an affront against the rule of law”

Until the order is set aside or vacated, the Senate and every person or institution against whom the order is made, are bound by the order and must obey the order.

The rule of law demands that all orders issued by a competent court, unless and until set aside, overruled or otherwise repealed, must be obeyed to the letter. It’s immaterial that anyone or group thinks the order(s) is valid, invalid, or whatever. Ogundare, JSC, in Rossek v.A.C.B. Ltd. (1993) 8 NWLR (Pt. 312) 382 at Pg. 434-435 said: "A party, who knows of an order, whether null or valid, regular or irregular cannot be permitted to disobey it..... It would be most dangerous to hold that the suitors, or their solicitors, could themselves Judge whether an order was null or valid – whether it was regular or irregular…. As long as it existed, it must not be disobeyed". This view was earlier stated by Romer L.J in Hadkinson v Hadkinson (1952) 2 All ER 567 where he observed that "It is the plain and unqualified obligation of every person against, or in respect of whom an order is made by a court of competent jurisdiction, to obey it unless and until that order is discharged. The uncompromising nature of this obligation is shown by the fact that, it extends even to cases where the person affected by an order believes it to be irregular or even void.... If that Court never had jurisdiction in the matter, then its decision is, without jurisdiction, void, but, then should a court of law not even decide the point? That is, the court without jurisdiction decided without jurisdiction? Should the decision be ignored? Surely, it would not make for peace and finality which a decision of a court seeks to attain. It would at least be against public policy for persons, without the backing of the court, to pronounce a court decision a nullity, act in breach of the decision, whereas others may set out to obey it. In my respectful view it is not only desirable but necessary to have such decisions set aside first by another court, before any act is built upon it despite the colourful dictum of the law Lord in U.A.C. v Macfoy (Supra).” Generally, therefore, orders of a competent Court must be obeyed as long as they subsist, if the authority and administration of the Court are not to be brought into disrepute, scorn or disrespect. They remain binding on parties thereto until set aside by a superior court of competent jurisdiction, or declared null and void. Thus, once a party knows of the subsistence of an order of Court, whether valid or not and whether regular or irregular or even perverse, he is obliged to obey it. It is therefore, submitted that the Senate has no right or power to disobey any order of a court of law,

on the ground that the court has no power to stop performance of Senate's constitutional responsibility. Again, even where No express restraining order has been issued, the rule of law and the doctrine of Lis Pendens require that a party who is aware of a pending application seeking injunctive reliefs against the party, is no longer entitled to take any further steps that could frustrate the pending matter or alter the status quo. Temitope Onabanjo wrote on DNLLEGALANDSTYLE, and I agree, as follows: "The meaning of lis pendens is – ‘a pending legal action’, wherein Lis means the ‘suit’ and Pendens means ‘continuing or pending’. The doctrine has been derived from a latin maxim 'Ut pendent nihil innovetur' which means that during litigation nothing should be changed". Gbenga Ojo wrote: “Lis pendens denotes those principles and rules of law which define and limit the operation of the common law maxim, to the effect that nothing relating to the subject-matter of a suit can be changed while the suit is pending”. [See: ”Defining the Scope and Limit of the Doctrine of Lis Pendens: Need for a Restatement of Principles” by Gbenga Ojo published in The Gravitas Review of Business & Property Law, Vol.6 No.3 (Sept 2015)]. The implication of the aforesaid, in the instant case, is that No arm or organ of the Senate was entitled to take any further steps in respect of the suit pending against the Senate, unless and until the final determination thereof.

In Akiboye v Adeko (2011) 6 NWLR (Part 1244) 415, the Court of Appeal stated that the doctrine of lis pendens had evolved for the purpose of preventing one party from fraudulently seeking to overreach the decision of the court. However, for the doctrine to apply, the following mandatory conditions must be fulfilled: (I) That at the time of taking the action complained of, the suit regarding the dispute/subject was already pending. The doctrine of Lis Pendens will apply, only if the action was taken after the matter was already brought before the court. In this instance, did the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan happen during the pendency of the suit instituted by her against the Senate? (II) That the other party had been served with the originating processes in the pending action. Had the Senate been served with the court processes, as of the time the Senate suspended Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan? (III) That the action complained of relates to the subject of the dispute, and is capable of overreaching the decision of the court in the suit. Does the subject-matter of the matter that led to her suspension relate to or connected to the pending lawsuit? It's respectfully submitted that, by virtue of the fact that the Senate itself and the Ethics Committee are parties to the pending lawsuit, the Senate and all its organs and arms were bound by both lis pendens

Senator Natasha akpoti-Uduaghan

'Disciplinary Injunction:' considering the Suspension of Senator akpoti-Uduaghan from the Senate

and any outcome and legal implications or effects of the pending suit, even if the Court had not made any restraining order yet. In Military Government of Lagos State v Emeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu (1986) 1 NWLR (Pt.18) 621, the Supreme Court stated as follows: “After a Defendant has been notified with the pendency of a suit seeking an injunction against him, even though a temporary injunction be not granted, he (the Defendant) acts at his own peril, and subject to the power of the court to restore the status wholly irrespective of the merits as may be ultimately decided…. They [parties] have no right to take the matter into their own hands once the court was seised of it”. In the United States of America case of Porter v Lee, 328 U.S. 246 at Page 251, 66 S.Ct. 1096, at Page 1099, 90 L. Ed. 1199, the court had declared that 'where a Defendant with notice in an injunction proceeding completes the acts sought to be enjoined, the court may by mandatory injunction restore the status quo'. In the case of Bello v AG of Lagos State (2007) 2 NWLR (Pt.1017) Pg.115, while the matter was still pending in court, the Appellant did a publication in a newspaper in respect of the subject-matter of the suit, the lower court held that the Appellant (as Appellant/ Plaintiff in the court below) was in contempt of court. The Court of Appeal affirmed the decision of the lower court. In Peter Obi v INEC (SC No:2) [2007] Vol. 9 M.J.S.C 1, the Supreme Court said: “As at 14th April, 2007 when the 1st Respondent (INEC) was conducting gubernatorial election in Anambra State, the seat of the Governor of that State was not vacant. That election was a wasteful and unnecessary exercise. The 1st Respondent (INEC) was aware at that time that, the Appellant was in court pursuing his legal rights. A body that has respect for the rule of law, which the INEC ought to be, would have waited for the outcome of the court proceedings; particularly when it was aware of it”.

At this juncture, the question must be asked, Was the Senate Aware of the Pending Lawsuit, filed by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan? I think the answer is Yes; the Senate was fully aware of the restraining order made against it on March 5 by the Federal High Court. A 05 March 2025 report by BusinessDay Newspaper, published under the heading, *"Natasha’s Sexual Harassment Petition dead on arrival – Senate",* had it that "The Senate has declared that the sexual harassment petition filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio is 'dead on arrival' on two grounds as disclosed by Neda Imasuen, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions:

Ground One: The Petition contravened Senate Rules as the petition was signed by Akpoti-Uduaghan herself. Senator Neda Imasuen cited Order 40(4), which prohibits Senators from presenting petitions signed by themselves, adding "No Senator may present to the Senate a petition signed by him or herself. That petition ought to have been presented by another Senator. That was not done, which is a direct contravention of our Rule Book”.

Ground Two: Senator Neda Imasuen explained that "The allegations contained in the petition were already before a Court. That petition, for what you read on the floor and for what I’ve seen, is making some allegations that are already in court. It is the procedure of this Committee that when a petition is before any law court, we do not touch such petitions”. Acknowledging that he had been served with legal documents from M.J. Numa and Partners, warning the Senate against intervening in the matter, Senator Neda Imasuen, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, stated further: "They have presented to me a motion and a rule order from the court, attempting to stop this Committee from doing its work. This is unacceptable. We should actually let the world know that, there is what they call separation of powers in our Constitution”.

Two interesting facts emerge from Senator Neda Imasuen's statements, above: (1). The Senator had been served with the Court processes in the case filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan; hence the Senate was fully aware of the pendency of the lawsuit. (2) As of 05 March 2025, the Senate had been served with a copy of the Federal High Court injunction restraining the Senate, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions and the Committee Chairman, from proceeding with the disciplinary proceedings against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduagha; hence, the Senate was fully aware of the restraining injunction against the Senate.

There's a third, and even much more interesting takeaway from Senator Neda Imasuen's statement; *"It is the procedure of this Committee that when a petition is before any law court, we do not touch such petitions".* This, in effect, means judging by Senator Neda Imasuen's own confessions, that the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions does not deal with any petition touching on any matter before a Court of law. Now look at

these two scenarios:

Scenario One: Senator Natasha AkpotiUduaghan brought a Petition against the Senate President which petition was referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions. The Committee dismissed the petition as "dead on arrival", on grounds that "It is the procedure of this Committee that when a petition is before any law court, we do not touch such petitions".

Scenario Two: However, when the Senate passed a resolution bringing a complaint/petition against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan which petition was then referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, the Committee proceeded to deal with the petition, and recommended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan's suspension which was immediately approved by the Senate vide a resolution passed on 06 March, 2025. All this notwithstanding that the subject-matter of the complaint against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was pending in court, and notwithstanding that there was even a restraining order of court against both the Senate and the Committee, which order had been duly served on the Senate and on the Committee.

Different strokes for similar situations; a convenient adherence to Lis Pendens; a lopsided respect for the rule of law; and a clear violation of Quod Approbo Non Reprobo, the Latin legal maxim which means "that which I approve, I cannot disapprove", and it translates to the legal doctrine of "cannot approbate and reprobate at the same time", meaning once you've chosen a course of action or position, you cannot later contradict it to gain an undue advantage. The doctrine signifies that after a person has asserted or acknowledged a particular stand or position, they cannot later choose a different one to gain benefit from both. In the present case, the Senate wouldn't deal with Natasha's petition because it's about a matter that's pending in court, but, would readily deal with the complaint against Natasha even when it's about a matter also pending in court and in respect of which there's even a pending restraining order against the Senate, duly served on the Senate.

The Senate was deliberate about its decision to flout the Court order. Despite the court’s order for the Senate Committee halt its investigation into a petition against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, the Committee proceeded with deliberations on the matter. It was reported that the Chairman of the Senate Committee who acknowledged the court’s enrolment order, said the Committee would not defer to the directive, insisting that no court has the power to interfere in the internal affairs of Parliament. He was reported to have said: “There is a separation of powers.

As parliamentarians, we know what our Rules say. What we do here, isn’t subject to any court. The issue before us, is alleged misconduct on the floor of the Senate. It isn’t subject to any court”.

On 06 March 2025, despite the court injunction, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for six months. The Senate also resolved to suspend Mrs Apoti-Uduagan's

“The query may further be raised, whether the Senate President, in presiding over the case, has not turned himself into a judge in his own case, he being the Complainant, Prosecutor and Arbiter (Judge) all at the same time?”

salary and allowances while all her security aides would be withdrawn during the suspension period. The Senate suspended her for six months over alleged misconduct and refusal to comply with the Chamber’s sitting arrangement during the plenary session on 20 February, and resolved that if Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan submits a written apology, the leadership of the chamber may consider lifting the suspension before the six-month period expires. The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, announced the suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan after it was supported in a voice vote by a majority of Senators during the plenary. The controversy began when Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan refused to occupy her new seat because it was done without her consent, insisting that the action violated her privileges.

Faith of Senate’s Resolution Suspending Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

From the legal principles and authorities discussed above, it's my respectful opinion that the Senate resolution suspending Senator Natasha AkpotiUduaghan may not survive the test of the rule of law. As a preview of the fate probably awaiting such a resolution, let me refer to two past but similar scenarios of flagrant disobedience of a court order, where the Court granted what I prefer to call Disciplinary Injunction to reverse preemptive actions taken by one of the parties during the pendency of a lawsuit and remedy the contemptuous situation; this type of order is usually made without the court considering the merits of the case.

Scenario One: "A breaking news in Nigeria on Monday, January 07, 2019, has it that a Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, presided over by Hon. Justice Kolawole Omotosho, on Monday nullified the direct and indirect primary elections allegedly conducted by two factions of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State. An online news medium, barristerNG. com, reports that the court order followed a suit filed by an APC Governorship aspirant in Rivers State, Senator Magnus Abe. According to the trial Judge, both factions of the APC had acted in disrespect of a pending suit before a Port Harcourt High Court by purporting to have produced candidates for Governorship, National and State Assembly polls, while the suit was still pending. The Judge accordingly, declared that “both the direct and indirect primaries purportedly held by the APC in Rivers State are illegal and cannot stand in the face of the law.” The Federal High Court decision subsequently went up to the Supreme Court through the Court of Appeal...was later endorsed by the Supreme Court of Nigeria'_ [See: *"Contempt of Court: Why Nigeria’s Federal High Court is Right on Rivers State APC"* by Sylvester Udemezue; 08 January 2025; BarristerNG]

Scenario Two: PremiumTimes' report of 23 August 2022 had it that: "The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Tuesday, reversed the suspension Joyce Oduah as Secretary General of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA). On Tuesday, the judge set aside the action of the NBA’s National Executive Committee (NEC) on the grounds that it constituted an affront to the rule of law and overreaching court’s proceedings in the suit. Justice Mohammed, while ruling on an application filed and argued by Ayotunde Ogunleye on behalf of Mrs Oduah, held that the NBA-NEC which gave legal effect to the General Secretary’s suspension acted in 'bad faith and in utter disregard for the proceedings of the court.' The judge agreed with Mr Ogunleye that the ratification done on 21 August ought not to have been carried out by the NEC in view of the pendency of a suit challenging Mrs Oduah’s suspension. [The Judge] further said that 'The purported ratification (of the General Secretary’s suspension) was not only an affront to the court, but a denigration of the sanctity of the judiciary which, on several occasions, has been condemned by the Supreme Court of

Nigeria... with or without express order of court, no party ought to have taken any further steps on the subject-matter of the litigation. The judge said that the action of the NBA-NEC in relation to the unlawful ratification was “irritating, annoying, condemnable and liable to be set aside since the actors in the illegal ratification cannot claim ignorance of the position of law on such contemptuous attitude.” [Read more: *"Court nullifies Suspension of NBA’s General Secretary, Joyce Oduah"* PremiumTimes; 23 August 2022] In such cases of disregard for pending proceedings, what the courts will do and have always done, is to undo what the Defendant or Respondent has proceeded to do in the meantime, irrespective of the merits of the matter; an order of Disciplinary Injunction is granted to revert preemptive action taken by one of the parties to the pending lawsuit, and this is done without the court considering the merits of the case. See Ezegbu v First African Trust Bank Limited (CA4) (1992) 1 NWLR (Pt. 220) 699; Vaswani Trading Co. v Savalakh & Co. (1972) 1 All NLR 283.... A final lesson one must take away from all this is that, litigants and their Lawyers alike who are involved in proceedings before courts of law, must imbibe the appropriate manner of dealing with pending courts proceedings, court orders and the Judiciary as a whole, bearing in mind what negative or disastrous consequences their contemptuous and disdainful conducts towards judicial officers and their orders may have on the litigants themselves, and on administration of justice and rule of law, without which democracy cannot survive”.

Conclusion

Finally, although this is not the focus of the present commentary, one other serious question that may arise in the Senator Natasha’s brouhaha, is whether the Senate President (Godswill Akpabio) who was allegedly insulted, complained against and personally accused by Senator Natasha! was entitled to have presided over the trial and determination of the charge of Senator Natasha in view of the requirements of the twin pillars of natural justice, especially the rule of nemo judex in causa sua (one cannot be a judge in his own case). The query may further be raised, whether the Senate President, in presiding over the case, has not turned himself into a judge in his own case, he being the Complainant, Prosecutor and Arbiter (Judge) all at the same time?

In Danladi Kachia v Zaria L A 1969 N.N.L.R. 82, the Court had this to say:"This allegation, in our view, goes beyond contempt of court, but constitutes an imputation that may harm the reputation of the Judge. …. It is personal to the Judge. In our view, the Judge was therefore, personally interested in the case and was therefore, debarred from hearing the case…. We cannot envisage a case that would give raise to a higher reasonable apprehension of bias on the part of the accused, than the present one. He was accused of defaming the Judge, who tried him and convicted him virtually of that offence. We must allow the appeal on this ground. The appeal is allowed. Conviction and sentences are set aside”.

It is important to suggest that in determining the legal propriety or otherwise of Senator Godswill Akpabio presiding over the trial and suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan in this particular case, regard may be given to dictum of Lord Denning, MR, in the English case of R v Amber Valley DC, Ex Parte Jackson [1985] 1 WLR 298, [1984] 3 All ER 50), referred to with approval in the Nigerian case of Zaman v State (2015) LPELR-24595(CA): "The court looks at the impression, which would be given to other people. Even if he was as impartial as could be, nevertheless if right-minded persons would think that, in the circumstances, there was a real likelihood of bias on his part, then he should not sit. And, if he does sit, his decision cannot stand”. It is irrelevant whether he was in fact biased, because justice is rooted in [public] confidence”.

Sylvester Udemezue (Udems), Legal Practitioner, Law Teacher, and the Proctor of The Reality Ministry of Truth, Law and Justice (TRM) [A Nonaligned, Nonprofit Public Interest Law Advocacy Group]

Sylvester Udemezue

Frequent Grid Collapse: Causes and Effects

For a country whose population is said to be over 200 million citizens, Nigeria generates barely 14,000 megawatts of electricity out of at least 33,000mw needed.. The blame game and buck-passing between Generating Companies and distribution companies, hasn’t helped matters at all. Today, the nation is grappling with frequent collapses of the national grid, and most parts of Nigeria are thrown into darkness for days. The negative effect of this on this on the economy, is unimaginable. Former Director General of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory commission, Dr Sam Amadi, gives an in-depth analysis of the unfortunate situation, and suggests ways of facing the challenges, while painting a hopeful and positive future

Frequent Grid Collapse and the National Economy

In recent years, Nigeria has experienced the worst system collapses in its recent history. It is doubtful that there is any other time since 1999, that Nigeria has experienced a more unreliable power supply than now. It is true

that our generation capacity has improved from about 6,000mw to about 14,000mw from 1999 to 2025, but, ironically, we now experience more frequent and longer lasting blackouts than in 1999 when we began the journey to structural reform of the electricity industry.

“The truth is that, Nigerian electricity grid collapsed in the 1990s. The result was that, a population of more than 150 million people by then, could only access less than 2000mw of electricity from the grid. This was the lowest electricity per capita, in the entire world. Nigeria still has one of the lowest per capita wattage in the world, even lower than some of our poorer African neighbours”

What is responsible for this wrong turn in the power sector reform? What are the costs for this level of unreliability, and what can we do to cure the sector of gross instability and inefficiency?

Rome was Not Built in a Day, but Rome Was Built!

The truth is that, Nigerian electricity grid collapsed in the 1990s. The result was that, a population of more than 150 million people by then, could only access less than 2000mw of electricity from the grid. This was the lowest electricity per capita, in the entire world. Nigeria still has one of the lowest per capita wattage in the world, even lower than some of our poorer African neighbours. How did that happen, considering that we have our first grid electricity

as early as 1896, less than two decades after England had the first grid power. We ought to be richer in electricity supply than 2000mw in 2000. But, we failed to do what other countries did. By a conservative estimate, a country should increase its generation and distribution capacity by an average of 3000mw every two years. This is to cater for more urbanisation that increases electricity demand. We did not do this. The last of major power project in Nigeria before we commenced power sector reform in 2000 was Egbim Power Plant in Lagos. It was set up by President Shehu Shagari and completed around 1988. It has a capacity of about 1,300mw, but has never operated at its full capacity. So, we commenced reform with 6,000mw installed capacity, and about 2000 daily supply.

If we consider distribution and

Dr Sam Amadi

Frequent Grid collapse: causes and effects

transmission capabilities of the national grid, then our situation was worse in 2000. Our distribution network was woeful as the monopoly public utility that generated, transmitted and distributed electricity in Nigeria, the Nigeria Electric Power Authority, (NEPA) was grossly incapacitated due to low investment and maintenance of the national grid. In matter of corporate governance, things were worse. NEPA never had an audited account until 2013 prior to privatisation, when the regulator, NERC, ordered and facilitated account audit of all PHCN successor companies. NEPA and subsequently, PHCN (Power Holdings Company of Nigeria, NEPA’s successor-in-title) never had competent and independent Boards, hence, their operations were grossly inefficient and corrupt. The result was a collapsed electricity industry, with no financial viability by 2000.

The reform assumption was that, privatisation would cure the twin problem of financial viability and operational efficiency. The central diagnosis is that, government monopoly ownership of the electricity utility is the cause of the systemic inefficiency and financial non-viability of the industry. From an economic theory perspective, the doctrine of principal-agent problem suggested that until government is no longer the owner of the assets, it will be difficult to secure accountability for resource utilisation. Again, based on the soft budget line argument, the proponents of privatisation argue that public utilities would not be commercially efficient since they have assurance of public finance to cover their unprofitability. Once we divest to private firms, we cure both the principal-agent and soft budget line problems.

Since privatisation in November 2013, we have not seen significant changes in both financial viability and operational efficiency. The assumption that the new investors will finance expansion and improve services which will result in more and better electricity supply to businesses and homes, has not materialised. Since 2013, the Federal Government has continued to finance critical infrastructure in the electricity industry, and providing grants to distribution companies. The distribution companies have not implemented robust change management strategies partly because they do not have capacity to leverage financial resources,

and because they have not been afforded cost-reflective tariffs. Either way, the assumption of financial viability accompanying privatisation, has proved to be nothing but an assumption.

To state it in simple terms, the reason we are having repeated system collapse of the national grid is because the national grid is very fragile, unreliable and inefficiently and ineffectively managed. The collapse of the grid, despite a decade of privatisation, tells a story about the poor diagnosis of the crisis of the sector in 2000, and the subsequent administration of wrong cures since then. At any rate, the continuing unreliability of the electricity grid in Nigeria tells a story of the lack of success of the reform. Locating who should be blamed, becomes a blame game. The Federal Government continues to blame two actors for the failure of the reform. First, are the private owners who have not made the required level of financial investment to upgrade the grid, and consumers who are unwilling to pay prices of electricity that can finance continuous production. These actors in turn blame the Government for the failure. For

“The last of major power project in Nigeria before we commenced power sector reform in 2000 was Egbin Power Plant in Lagos. It was set up by President Shehu Shagari, and completed around 1988…. the reason we are having repeated system collapse of the national grid, is because the national grid is very fragile, unreliable and inefficiently and ineffectively managed”

the private investors, Government should be blamed for lacking the political will to enforce efficient pricing of electrical services. For consumers, Government should be blamed, for selling assets to inefficient and bankrupt investors.

But, the truth lies somewhere in the middle. It is true that the privatisation process was hurried and full of errors that, in hindsight, were avoidable. One notable error is selling the distribution companies for fees, and using the fees to pay off workers who are mostly still in employment. The proceeds of the divestment of the distribution companies, should have been dedicated to reinvestment in network expansion and maintenance and metering. This would have improved the quality of services in the short term, to create support for long-term expansion. If the distribution assets were sold for a token and firm investment decisions backed by credible financial instruments were made by the investors on recovery and expansion of network capacity, there would have been more reliability of the grid and less volatility as is the case today. The investors blame failure on the fact that they are not allowed to charge the appropriate tariffs that will ensure recovery of costs, and incentivise further financial borrowing to expand the network. That is true. But, the other truth is that the Nigerian electricity industry has undergone several tariff reviews. We have moved the rate of tariffs in the industry

upwards. The tariffs may not be at the most appropriate level. But, the tariffs have gone up. At some points, the rate of increase of tariff for some customer classes, breach the regulatory rule that does not allow rate shock. A tariff increase of over 50%, is a rate shock that is not conventionally allowed. The problem of tariff in the Nigerian electricity industry, is that we want to use tariff increase to solve a structural problem of inefficiency. This is a misnomer. Tariffs should gradually increase. But, more importantly, inefficiency should quickly reduce. The inefficiency measured in terms of Aggregate Technical, Commercial and Collection (ATC&C) losses are very high. The basis of divestment of the eleven distribution companies to private investors, is that they would make huge financial investment in network upgrade and metering to quickly reduce the losses level. They have not done that. Once the losses levels are high, tariffs will be overstretched to cover them. And there is a limit to what tariffs can do in a market where costs escalate, and household incomes dwindle because of monetary policies of government like removal of subsidies in PMS and floating of the currency. The devaluation of the Naira relative to the Dollar, means that there will be cost escalation in the industry. This destroys the financial profile of all the utilities. There are two ways to respond: keep increasing tariffs till they catch up with rising costs, or improve efficiency to reduce costs. The operators of the Nigerian electricity market, are trapped in the quest for ever increasing tariffs. But, that is a hopeless quest. The Nigerian

Frequent Grid collapse: causes and effects

household income index, does not support the rate of tariff increase that fills the holes caused monetary policies. Higher increase in tariffs will lead to greater inclination to steal electricity and bypass the grid. This will worsen the financial viability of the industry and further worsen socioeconomic stability, including an increase in inflation.

The Economic Costs of Grid Collapses

In 2024, the Nigerian electricity grid collapsed 13 times. In the month of February alone, it collapsed three times. This tells a story of gross unreliability and fragility. We have never had this frequency of grid collapse since 1999, except for a particular year under President Buhari.

The economic consequences of grid collapses, are immense. First, grid collapse has financial costs on the operators of the electricity market. It means direct revenue losses for the distribution companies, and additional costs for black-start and other ancillary services in the electricity market. It is estimated that frequent grid collapses, cost generating companies about N21billion as losses. This is huge considering the level of financial distress in the industry. But, more than that, grid collapse posts huge costs on businesses, especially small and medium enterprises that cannot externalise those costs. Those small and medium enterprises that cannot migrate to solar or other off-grid solutions to mitigate the frequency and duration of grid outages will lose business, and if it continues, they will likely exit the market. A conservative estimate of economic losses from grid collapses, put it to about $26b annually. This does not include the costs of alternative power which comes to about $22 billion. Academic research published in an Adeleke University Journal of Engineering and Technology estimates that 1% rise in electricity outage in Sub-Saharan Africa leads to 4.86% decline in the GDP of the region, which comes to about $38 billion losses in GDP.

Customers also suffer losses, on account of frequent grid collapses. Frequent grid collapses have an impact on the life of equipment and gadgets. This is another economic cost that affects household income. As there is no legal framework to

compensate customers for damages to property during grid collapses, it means that customers are forced to spend on replacement of damaged goods. It also leads to loss of business opportunities and reduction in life expectancy, as provision of electricity has direct bearing on health and education outcomes.

Mitigating these Costs: A Socio-Legal Approach

The cause of frequent grid collapses in Nigeria, has two primary sources. First is the degraded state of networks and infrastructure in the electricity industry. Neither the Federal Government nor the private investors, are making the required investments in the network to strengthen and expand it to cope with challenges of higher energy demand and more generation capacity. The fragility of the grid means that, we continue to have stranded electricity that would have improved the quality and quantity of electricity supplied to homes and businesses in Nigeria. Without a viable financial plan for the industry, we may not raise the

“The proceeds of the divestment of the distribution companies, should have been dedicated to reinvestment in network expansion and maintenance and metering. This would have improved the quality of services in the short term, to create support for long-term expansion….. The basis of divestment of the eleven distribution companies to private investors, is that they would make huge financial investment in network upgrade and metering to quickly reduce the losses level. They have not done that”

money to finance quick and significant upgrade in facilities and network to deal with the fragility and unreliability of the grid. Where will the money come from? That should be the major challenge for policymakers and regulators.

Another cause of the frequent grid collapse, is the poor management culture in the industry. The private investors lack both the required financial ability and the managerial capacity, to turn things around in a reasonable period. The result is that the ATC&C losses are still very high. This means that we will continue to be grossly inefficient, in production and supply of electricity. The response to these problems is both policy and regulatory. Is there a legal framework, to support the redress of this crisis that undermines our quest for competitiveness?

The aspect of the policy response, is that the Constitution in Section16 mandates the Nigerian State to pursue economic growth together with social justice. That section has three basic imperatives. The first imperative is economic growth imperative. This requires the management of Nigeria’s economy, to aim at high economic growth. The obligation of the policymakers and managers of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) under Section 13 of the Constitution, is to ensure compliance with provisions of Chapter 2 of the Constitution. In this way, they have to ensure that there is high economic growth. You cannot attain high economic growth, with epileptic power supply. It is estimated that

the unreliable power supply in Nigeria, reduces GDP growth prospect by more than 2%

The second imperative is the “social justice imperative’. The questions to ask with respect to the social justice imperative, is whether the management of the national grid benefit the worse off? What model of social justice is implied in the regulation of access to electricity? Is it egalitarianism, equality- equality of what? The third imperative is the “regulatory imperative”. The national economy must be regulated, to ensure social justice and equality. Unregulated free market is arguably unconstitutional. Some would argue that the express language of Section 16 seems to import a fourth imperative. The “public enterprise imperative”. This means that the national grid should be operated by public enterprises. Well, this may be far-fetched.

But, what is clear is that there is an obligation imposed by the Constitution on the management of the grid to achieve strategic national interest. But, this is at the wholesale policy level. At the retail level where citizens seek compensation for losses and damages, what options are available for them? Since the Electric Power Sector Reform Act 2005 removed the protection granted to NEPA from liability for losses and damages to consumers, any consumer can sue the operators of the national grid for losses and damages arising from frequent grid collapses. There will be a lot of discoveries and interrogatories, for such a case to succeed. But, no doubt, there is not legal exclusion of liability, for the gross inefficiency of the management of the national grid.

Jogging to Bond: UBA’s Unique Way of Fostering Teamwork and Excellence

Anchored on the premise of “Built to Last, Made for You”, the United Bank for Africa (UBA), has undoubtedly built a legacy of excellence in shaping Africa’s financial future. Spanning 20 African countries and four global financial hubs-United States, United Kingdom, France, and UAE, the bank has been intentional about building team spirit, strengthening bonds, and pushing boundaries together. In line with these ethos, it instituted the quarterly ‘Jogging to Bond’ event to boost staff energy, teamwork, and fitness. This quarter, the first edition for the year 2025 leveled up to strengthen bonds and a healthier, stronger UBA Tribe, writes Chiemelie Ezeobi

At the United Bank for Africa (UBA), there’s a belief that the journey to excellence begins with collaboration and connection. One of the most vibrant expressions of this philosophy is their Jogging to Bond event, held quarterly, bringing employees together for a unique mix of physical activity, teamwork, and family-friendly fun.

As the sun rose on March 1st, 2025, UBA staff from all corners of the globe gathered for the latest edition of this event, aptly themed “Execute Your Game.” However, this was not just another fitness initiative—it was a statement about the culture that UBA fosters: one that prioritises people, teamwork, and the spirit of competition to drive success.

The Power of People

At the heart of UBA’s ethos is a people-first approach. Tomiwa Shotiloye, the Directorate Head of Resources at UBA PLC, explained the rationale behind Jogging to Bond: “We’re in the business of service, and service is delivered through our people. We care about people, and we aim to create an environment where teamwork is valued. We’ve always emphasised a team-oriented culture where employees can bond, build relationships, and push each other to be their best.”

This event, held every quarter, serves as more than just an opportunity for physical exercise—it’s an avenue for UBA employees

Shotiloye. “We want to create an environment where family and work life intersect, reinforcing the importance of support and community.”

By weaving together work and family, UBA ensures that the relationships built during these events are meaningful and long-lasting. It fosters a sense of belonging and unity that transcends beyond the office, nurturing a well-rounded and committed workforce.

A Competitive Edge

While Jogging to Bond is fundamentally about fostering connections, UBA also injects an element of friendly competition to make things even more exciting. Teams of employees are formed to compete in a variety of games and activities, ranging from traditional board games to more physically demanding challenges. The goal is not only to bond but also to tap into that competitive spirit which drives individuals to give their best.

This year, four teams—Team Blue, Team Grey, Team Green, and Team Purple—battled it out for the coveted first-place title. The games included table tennis, billiards, tic-tac-toe, snakes and ladders, and an obstacle course, to name a few. There was also a variety of lighter games such as Jenga, Scrabble, and PS4 games, ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy.

Team Green emerged victori -

ous with a total of 32 points, a clear testament to their collaboration and strategy. However, as Shotiloye aptly put it, “The competition is about learning the value of teamwork. No one wins alone; success comes from working together, supporting each other, and playing as one.”

More Than Just Fun and Games

For UBA, Jogging to Bond is not just about pushing employees to be physically fit or awarding prizes—it’s about instilling a culture of excellence in every aspect of work.

The competitive spirit that runs through the event is directly translatable to the workplace.

The lessons learned from working together, celebrating each other’s strengths, and supporting one another in achieving common goals carry over into their professional lives.

“The Lion Spirit, as we call it, is something that runs deep at UBA,” said Shotiloye, referencing the bank’s mascot and core values.

“This event is a reflection of the spirit of excellence we instill in our employees. It’s a way to bring everyone together, celebrate our collective efforts, and prepare us to work more effectively as a team.”

The connection forged during these events contributes to better workplace dynamics and productivity. Employees return to their desks with a renewed sense of collaboration, knowing that they are part of something bigger than themselves—a united force

working towards common goals.

Looking Ahead: Leveling Up Season 2025 is being touted as a year of leveling up for UBA. As the Jogging to Bond event continues to evolve, the emphasis will remain on pushing boundaries—physically, mentally, and professionally. For UBA, the investment in its people is the most crucial element in driving organisational success, and initiatives like Jogging to Bond are a testament to this commitment.

“It’s about creating an atmosphere where excellence is celebrated, teamwork is prioritized, and everyone has a chance to level up,” Shotiloye said. “This event has been running for over 10 years, and it keeps growing. It’s no longer just a local initiative; it’s something celebrated across all UBA locations worldwide.”

Conclusion

Jogging to Bond is more than just an event; it’s a manifestation of UBA’s core values in action. By blending physical activity, friendly competition, and a family-centered atmosphere, UBA is creating a culture where excellence and collaboration are key drivers of success. This quarterly exercise continues to inspire employees to not only perform better at work but also to connect on a deeper level with their colleagues, creating a powerful force that drives the bank’s growth and success globally.

For UBA, it’s clear: when employees bond, they perform at their best. And when they perform at their best, excellence follows.

UBA Staff during its quarterly Jogging To Bond event held at the National Stadium, Surulere... recently

Staff members having fun during the UBA Jogging to Bond event held at the National Stadium, Surulere

Deputy Managing Director, Muyiwa Akinyemi, addressing members of staff during the Jogging to Bond event, held at the National Stadium Surulere

Members of staff during the Jogging to Bond event, held at the National Stadium Surulere at the weekend

Women Leading Change: How Titi Ogufere and Mojisola Hunponu-Wusu are Transforming the Design Industry

Two visionary Nigerian women, Titi Ogufere and Mojisola Hunponu-Wusu, are transforming the design industry through an innovative partnership. By combining their expertise and resources, they are empowering designers, makers, and manufacturers, and driving sustainable development in the industry. Writes

MARY NNAH

Titi Ogufere, founder of Design Week Lagos, and Mojisola Hunponu-Wusu, founder and CEO of Woodhall Capital, have joined forces to launch the Design Den initiative. This innovative programme provides financing, mentorship, and market access to designers, promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainability in the industry.

Their partnership is a powerful symbol of women's leadership and collaboration, showcasing the impact of collective action in creating positive change. As we commemorate International Women's Month, their accomplishments highlight the vital importance of empowering women and advancing gender equality across all areas of life.

This collaboration partnership between Design Week Lagos, founded by Ogufere, and Woodhall Capital, led by HunponuWusu, aims to provide sustainable financing solutions, promote innovation, and drive economic growth in the industry.

Design Week Lagos, which opened its 2025 edition recently at the Ecobank Pan African Centre on Ozumba Mbadiwe, Victoria Island, Lagos, is a platform that showcases the best of Nigerian and African design.

The event featured an impressive lineup of designers, manufacturers, interior makers, and craftsmen and women, all showcasing their unique and innovative designs.

However, despite the abundance of creativity and innovation in the industry, many designers struggle to scale due to limited access to financing, lack of structured investment, and an absence of industrial infrastructure. This is where the partnership between Design Week Lagos and Woodhall Capital comes in.

Titi Ogufere, founder of Design & Innovation Exhibition, which organises the Design Week Lagos, emphasised the importance of financing in unlocking the potential of the design industry.

“Nigeria is rich in creativity, but many designers struggle to scale due to limited access to financing. Our partnership with Woodhall Capital is a game-changer, providing structured funding and support to designers, makers, and manufacturers”, said Ogufere.

Mojisola Hunponu-Wusu, founder and CEO of Woodhall Capital, highlighted the need for sustainable financing solutions in the design industry.

"Creativity without funding is just a concept. Our initiative, Design Den, provides a platform for designers to access financing, mentorship, and market access. We believe that by empowering designers, we can drive economic growth, create jobs, and promote sustainable development."

The Design Den initiative is a firstof-its-kind programme that provides financing, mentorship, and market access to designers, makers, and manufacturers.

The programme is designed to promote innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainability in the design industry, with a focus on empowering women and promoting gender equality.

As part of the initiative, Design Week Lagos and Woodhall Capital will provide training, mentorship, and financing to selected designers, makers, and manufacturers.

The programme will also provide market access, helping participants to connect with potential customers, investors, and partners.

Ogufere noted that the partnership with Woodhall Capital is a strategic move to provide designers with the necessary tools to succeed. "We are excited to partner with Woodhall Capital to provide financing solutions to designers.

This partnership is a testament to our commitment to empowering designers and promoting sustainable development in the industry."

Hunponu-Wusu added that the initiative is designed to promote economic growth and job creation in the design industry. "We believe that by providing financing solutions to designers, we can drive economic growth, create jobs, and promote sustainable development. Our initiative, Design Den, is a platform for designers to access financing, mentorship, and market access."

The partnership between Design Week Lagos and Woodhall Capital is a demonstration of the power of collaboration and innovation in driving

economic growth and promoting sustainable development.

As the world marks International Women's Month, this initiative serves as a reminder of the importance of empowering women and promoting gender equality in all aspects of life.

According to Ogufere, "The design industry has the potential to drive economic growth and create jobs, but it requires access to financing and mentorship. Our partnership with Woodhall Capital is designed to provide designers with the necessary tools to succeed and promote sustainable development in the industry."

Hunponu-Wusu added, "We believe that by empowering designers, we can drive economic growth, create jobs, and promote sustainable development. Our initiative, Design Den, is a platform for designers to access financing, mentorship, and market access."

The Design Den initiative is a call to action for designers, makers, and manufacturers to take advantage of the opportunities available to them.

As Ogufere noted, "This partnership is a call to action for designers, makers, and manufacturers to take advantage of the opportunities available to them. We are committed to empowering designers and promoting sustainable development in the industry."

Hunponu-Wusu added, "We believe that by working together, we can drive economic growth, create jobs, and promote sustainable development in the design industry. Our initiative, Design Den, is a platform for designers to access financing, mentorship, and market access."

The collaboration between Design Week Lagos and Woodhall Capital is a significant milestone, offering a new model for the design industry and promoting sustainable development, thanks to the innovative approach of Ogufere and Hunponu-Wusu.

The Design Den initiative is a step in the right direction, providing designers with the necessary tools to succeed and promote sustainable development in the industry.

Ogufere and Hunponu-Wusu are leading the charge in empowering designers and promoting sustainable development in the industry. Their partnership is a shining example of what can be achieved when women come together to drive positive change.

As International Women's Month is observed, the contributions of women like Ogufere and Hunponu-Wusu are recognised for their role in shaping the future of design. The impact of the Design Den initiative and the growth of the design industry in Nigeria and globally will be closely watched.

The future of design is bright, and with initiatives like Design Den, we can expect to see even more innovative and sustainable designs coming out of Nigeria and Africa.

The partnership is a pioneering initiative that has the potential to transform the design industry and promote sustainable development.

By empowering designers and providing sustainable financing solutions, Ogufere and Hunponu-Wusu are paving the way for a brighter future for the industry and for women in design.

Their partnership is a powerful symbol of women's leadership and collaboration, showcasing the impact of collective action in creating positive change. The impact of the Design Den initiative and the growth of the design industry in Nigeria and globally will be closely watched.

The contributions of women like Ogufere and Hunponu-Wusu are recognised for their role in shaping the future of design. Their efforts to empower designers and advance sustainable development demonstrate the impact of women's leadership and collaboration.

Their legacy will continue to inspire and empower women and girls around the world, reminding us that together, we can create a brighter, more sustainable future for all.

As we look to the future, it is clear that the design industry has a critical role to play in driving economic growth and promoting sustainable development. The Design Den initiative is a pioneering step in this direction, providing designers with the necessary tools to succeed and promote sustainable development in the industry.

Titi Ogufere and Mojisola Hunponu-Wusu

Ajayi: The Liberalisation of Exchange Rate Has Improved Access to Dollars

Nume Ekeghe

The Chief Executive Officer of Rand Merchant Bank (RMB) Nigeria, Bayo Ajayi, has highlighted the opportunities presented by the government’s economic reforms, citing that policies such as the liberalization of the exchange rate have improved access to foreign exchange.

He made this statement at an exclusive Economic Forum organised by RMB Nigeria, where business leaders, policymakers, and financial experts gathered to address the complexities of Nigeria’s reform landscape.

The event, themed, “Beyond the Change: Steering Through Nigeria’s Reform Complexities,” provided a platform for critical discussions on macroeconomic trends, financial markets, taxation, digital finance, infrastructure,

and risk management.

He said: “The liberalisation of the exchange rate has improved access to dollars, reduced interest rates reflecting market prices, and enabled investment opportunities for investors,” Ajayi stated. “Secondly, the tax reform, which aims to reduce rates from 30 per cent to 25 per cent, will encourage business growth and attract more foreign direct investment into the country, strengthening the macroeconomic landscape. As the current administration continues to drive economic reforms, we expect these policies to have a positive impact on the economy.”

A key discussion at the event focused on strategic business positioning amidst policy shifts, moderated by Samantha Singh-Jami, RMB Research for Africa. Panelists including Dr. Christian Ebeke, IMF Resident Representative for Nigeria; Mr.

Kenneth Erikume, Partner at PwC; Mr. Deepak Bhojak, Group Treasurer at Tolaram Group; and Mr. Tilewa Adebajo, CEO of The CFG Advisory, explored how businesses can navigate policy changes while maintaining profitability.

Ebeke noted that the removal of fuel subsidies played a crucial role in stabilising Nigeria’s economy, stating that, “The impact of government reforms is very clear. It has resulted in improvements in the current account, a reduction in the debt ratio, increased Foreign Direct Investment, and greater financial stability compared to previous years.”

Chief Information Security Officer at RMB Nigeria, Mr. Ifeyemi Ifekoya examined the risks and opportunities associated with emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain Technology.

TAJBank To Issue N20bn Mudarabah Sukuk on NGX

TAJBank, said it has is finalising arrangements on the raising the sum of N20 billion Mudarabah Sukuk bond on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) to beef up its additional Tier 1 capital with the aim of fueling its business expansion drive.

The issuance is part of its N100 billion Sukuk programme.

The new investment initiative is coming after about two years following the issuance of the firstever N10 billion Sukuk bond on the Exchange in 2023.

Specifically, the new Mudarabah Sukuk bond, is designed to offer

a stable and ethical investment option, allows investors to participate in the bank’s profit-sharing ventures, and underscores TAJBank’s commitment to expanding access to innovative financial solutions and promoting financial inclusion in the country.

According to the management of the bank, the Mudarabah Sukuk issuance terms and conditions, now undergoing final regulatory assessment and approval processes, is open to all investors, both individuals and corporates and the goal is to provide a reliable source of extra income,

accessible from the comfort of your home.

Commenting on the current moves to raise the N20 billion Sukuk bond on the NGX during a virtual chat with journalists, the Founder/CEO of TAJBank, Mr Hamid Joda, said: “We are excited to bring this Mudarabah Sukuk to the market, offering a compelling investment opportunity that aligns with ethical financial principles. This listing on the NGX will enable a wider range of investors to participate in our growth and benefit from our profit-sharing model.”

Nigerite Staff Co-operative Expands into Real Estate

In a strategic move aimed at diversifying its investment portfolio and enhancing the economic well-being of its members, the Nigerite Staff (Ikeja) Co-Operative Multipurpose Society has announced its entry into the real estate sector.

The society’s President, Olarenwaju Kazeem, made the announcement during the 2024 Annual General Meeting and Account report, held during the weekend in Lagos.

According to Kazeem, the real estate venture is expected to generate significant returns on investment, which will in turn boost the economic fortunes of the society’s members.

“We are excited to announce our entry into the real estate

sector, which is a critical component of any economy. This move is part of our strategy to create a sustainable source of income for the society, beyond our traditional loans and savings model,” he added.

“This project is a game-changer for our members, who will have access to affordable housing and commercial spaces,” Kazeem said. “We are committed to creating value for our members, and this project is just the beginning.”

The Nigerite Staff Co-Operative Society has been in operation for several years, providing loans and other financial services to its members. The society has a strong track record of delivering benefits to its members, and the move into real estate is expected to take this to the next level.

As Kazeem noted, the

economic benefits of being a member of the society are enormous. “We provide loans to our members at very competitive rates, and we also offer other benefits such as car loans and building loans. Our members can also access business loans to support their entrepreneurial ventures.”

The society’s move into real estate underscores its dedication to innovation and excellence, demonstrating its ability to adapt and evolve in a rapidly changing economic landscape. As Kazeem promised,

“We will continue to explore new opportunities and create value for our members. The future is bright, and we are excited to see what’s next,” Kazeem added.

MediaFuse-Dentsu Nigeria Leads Marketing Transformation with AI

As the marketing communications sector experiences a major transformation fueled by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and creative innovation, MediaFuseDentsu Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to adapting and evolving its strategies. With a strong focus on sustainability and innovation, the agency is positioning itself as a leader in this transformation.Speaking at a three-day 2025 Management Strategy Conference, themed, ‘MediaFuse-Dentsu: Driving Through a Sustain-

able Data and Technology Strategy’, held recently, in Lagos, Emeka Chris Okeke, Group Chief Executive Officer of the organisation emphasised the need for adaptation in an evolving landscape. “The pace of change is phenomenal, and Nigeria is not exempted from these shifts. The Marketing Communications industry is transitioning to a future where AI, data science, and platform development will play pivotal roles,” he stated.

The conference attracted key leaders from Dentsu SubSaharan Africa, including CEO,

Dawn Rowlands and Chief Data Officer, Paul Stemmet. Industry experts also shared valuable insights on key topics shaping the future of marketing communications and business strategy in Nigeria.

CEO of Data Science Nigeria (DSN) and CEO/Co-Founder of EqualyzAI, Dr. Bayo Adekanmbi, who spoke on ‘Building a Sustainable Data and Technology Strategy for Marketing Communications in Nigeria’, highlighted the critical role of AI and datadriven decision-making in the industry.

Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo),

(Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic

Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE)

Merey (Venezuela).

Kayode Tokede

Mary Nnah

Funmi Ogundare

Africa Prudential Announces 95% PBT Growth, 60 Kobo Dividend

Kayode Tokede

Africa Prudential Plc has announced a Profit Before Tax (PBT) that nearly doubled to N2.81 billion in 2024 financial year, about 95 per cent increase over N1.44 billion declared in 2023 financial year.

The leading share registration and business solutions provider listed on the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) also announced N1.81

billion Profit After Tax (PAT) in 2024, up by 88 per cent from N962.9 million in 2023.

In addition to profit & loss figures, the company declared N5.19 billion gross revenue in 2024, representing an increase of 31.5 per cent from N3.95 billion in 2023, to reflect strong revenue growth and operational efficiency.

Building on its legacy of consistent shareholder rewards, Africa Prudential introduced an interim divi-

dend of 15 kobo per share at half-year 2024.

Investors will now receive a final dividend of 60 kobo per share, bringing the total dividend for the year to 75 kobo, a 67per cent increase from the 45 kobo paid in 2023.

In terms of value, shareholders will be sharing about N1.2 billion total dividend payout following an outstanding financial performance in 2024.

The company also achieved significant balance sheet expan-

sion, with total assets at N34.84 billion as of December 31, 2024, a growth of 52per cent from N22.98 billion in 2023.

Speaking on the 2024 financial year results, Managing Director/ CEO of Africa Prudential, Catherine Nwosu reaffirmed the company’s commitment to growth and innovation.

She said, “Our 2024 performance is a demonstration of our long-term strategy

and adaptability in a dynamic market.

“We have doubled our profitability and continue to prove to our shareholders that we are fully committed to value creation.

“Next year will even be more phenomenal as we are on track to roll out a long line up of innovative products and services developed to enhance service delivery in the capital market.

“We remain dedicated to

delivering superior value to our shareholders, expanding our service offerings, and redefining capital market solutions across Africa.”

With a solid earnings trajectory, robust balance sheet, and disciplined financial management, Africa Prudential is well-positioned for sustained profitability, market leadership, and long-term growth. The company stock price closed March 17, 2025 at N35.1 per share.

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 14 March-2025, unless otherwise stated.

Offer price: The price at which units of a

or ETF are bought by investors.

Bid Price: The price at which Investors redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF. Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total return an investor would

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS

There are growing concerns over the ability of the federal government to fully implement Nigeria’s almost N55 trillion budget for 2025 as the deficit in the country’s crude oil production benchmark of 2.06 million barrels per day climbed to over 390,000 bpd in February.

Data obtained from both the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) indicated that in February, Nigeria was neither able to meet its OPEC quota of 1.5 million bpd, nor did it move closer to hitting its crude output forecast of over 2 million bpd in this year’s budget.

While OPEC does not compute condensate production, Nigeria

has quite a good volume of the commodity and is usually part of its total expected crude oil output in the budget every year.

In all, while Nigeria was supposed to move closer to the 2.06 million crude oil and condensate benchmark in this year’s fiscal document, in February, the country recorded a reduced production of 1.671 million bpd, to increase the output gap.

The NUPRC data on Nigeria’s crude oil production saw oil and condensate output falling from 1.73 million bpd in January, a major blow to the successful implementation of this year’s budget.

Nigeria is targeting a crude oil production of 2.06 million bpd, including condensate in its 2025 budget, pegging it at $75 per barrel oil price for the year. However, none of the parameters have been met

this year.

Nigeria, Africa’s largest oil producer, has long struggled with fluctuating oil production due to a mix of operational, economic, and security challenges. Despite its vast reserves of up to 37.5 billion barrels, the country faces persistent issues that undermine its ability to meet production targets and maximise revenue from its oil sector.

One of the most pressing concerns is oil theft and pipeline vandalism. In the Niger Delta, organised criminal networks siphon off significant volumes of crude oil, leading to substantial losses for both the government and oil companies.

The damaged pipelines not only disrupt supply but also result in environmental degradation, further complicating efforts to maintain stable production.

Another major issue is aging infrastructure and underinvestment. Many oil fields and pipelines are decades old and require extensive maintenance or upgrades. Beyond domestic challenges, external factors such as fluctuating global oil prices also affect the country. When prices drop, investment in new projects slows, and government revenues shrink, affecting the broader economy.

But according to the NUPRC data, among others, production decreased in Ebok stream/terminal from 283,239 barrels to 278,452 barrels; it fell from 120,796 barrels to 40,447 in Ajapa terminal and slumped from 4 million barrels to 3.68 million barrels in Bonga in February.

In addition, during the period under consideration, production from Erha terminal fell from 2.1 million barrels to 1.8 million barrels; 2.1

million barrels to 1.8 million barrels in Egina; from 504,000 barrels to 200,000 barrels in Oyo terminal and from 425,878 barrela to 408,590 barrels in Pennington. Besides, the biggest volumes of output slump, took place at the Bonny terminal from 8.1 million barrels to 6.3 million barrels; also it rescued from about 1 million barrels to 876,000 in Brass; 4.63 million barrels to 4.2 million barrels in Qua Iboe; 8.8 million barrels to 7.7 million barrels in Forcados; 4.4 million barrels in Excravos to 3.8 million barrels and 2.3 million barrels to 2 million barrels in Odudu terminal.

“Lowest and peak production in February were 1.60 million bpd and 1.76 million bpd respectively. The daily average production in February was 1,671,953 barrels per

The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has condemned the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC) imposition of outrageous annual dues on private or non-quoted companies.

This condemnation comes against the backdrop of the recent implementation of the Financial Reporting Council Amendment Act 2023 (FRC Act), which widened the net of companies that fell under the FRC’s purview and also reviewed the payment structure of these companies as their annual dues moved from N1 million to hundreds of millions of naira based on their annual turnover.

According to the Director General of NECA, Smatt-Oyerinde, the policy would not only contradict the Federal Government’s efforts to stimulate economic growth, attract investment, streamline the tax regime, and promote job creation but also threaten the survival of thousands of private enterprises already grappling with rising operational costs, multiple taxation, regulatory bottlenecks, and economic uncertainty.

Smatt-Oyerinde described the imposition of the arbitrary

NECA declared the introduction of the levies unjust and unconscionable, particularly when the dues for quoted or listed companies are capped at N25 million.

levies as strange, especially at a time when the government was championing the Ease of Doing Business (Executive Order 001) and actively seeking foreign and local investments to boost Nigeria’s economic growth as well as streamline the imposition of taxes and levies within the country.

He noted with concern the increasing cost of running businesses in Nigeria at this time, noting that any additional financial demand would add unnecessary strain and stifle business expansion.

“Many companies especially those in manufacturing, trading, and essential services—operate on

thin margins. Imposing additional costs increases the risk of layoffs, business closures, and economic downturns. Apart from that, the perception that regulatory agencies can impose arbitrary fees on businesses, sending a negative signal to both local and foreign investors and weakening Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global economy. It will only serve to discourage investment when this is most needed to boost the economy,” he said.

He therefore called on the Federal Government, National Assembly, and all relevant authorities to act swiftly to

protect businesses from unjustified regulatory exploitation and take a more pragmatic approach to implementing economic policies to ensure job security for the people and the survival of businesses in Nigeria.

He further urged the Federal Government to suspend the enforcement of the new FRC annual dues on private companies and revert to the previous regime of N1 million (one million naira) until a transparent and comprehensive review is conducted.

In the same vein, he urged the National Assembly to initiate an immediate legislative review of

the FRC Act (as amended in 2023) to remove ambiguities, streamline FRC oversight and ensure fairness in the regulatory framework. Additionally, he stressed the need for the FG, through the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, to engage with key stakeholders in the Organised Private Sector (NECA, MAN, NACCIMA, and other business advocacy groups) to develop a fair, justifiable, and economically sustainable compliance framework.

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

FG to Begin Digital Mapping of Abuja, Surveyor General Briefs NCAA, ONSA

Stories by Emmanuel Addeh in abuja

In readiness for the digital drone mapping of Abuja, the office of the

Surveyor General of the Federation (OSGOF) has briefed the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA).

A statement from the Surveyor General’s office signed by the Head, Information and Public Relations, Henry David, said the necessary clearance had also been obtained

Green Energy Stocks Fall to Five-year Low as Support Wanes

Green energy stocks have fallen back to levels last seen five years ago, as uncertainty over political support for the clean energy transition away from fossil fuels has depressed the market.

The S&P Global Clean Energy Transition Index, an important barometer that tracks the performance of big clean energy companies, has dropped 16 per cent over the past 12 months.

Some investors believed shares would start to recover late last year as interest rates levelled off or fell and electricity prices climbed, the Financial Times reported.

But US President Donald Trump’s decision to freeze Inflation Reduction Act funding for green projects and withdraw the country from the Paris climate agreement have contributed to negative sentiment. Support for measures to cut fossil fuels is also under pressure in some European markets.

Head of Sustainable Equity at global investment manager Ninety One, Deirdre Cooper, said pessimism hanging over the decarbonisation sector was “exceptional” and mismatched with underlying company performance.

“I have never seen such bearishness in terms of the valuation for companies with structural growth The market is assuming no growth for decarbonisation,” Cooper said.

“In general, underperformance was in part driven by ongoing challenges such as the interest rate and inflationary environment, meaning higher project costs and policy uncertainty impacting the clean energy sector,” added analysts at S&P Dow Jones Indices.

After peaking in early 2021, the S&P Global Clean Energy Index started to fall steadily as interest rates rose, with clean

energy projects particularly vulnerable to higher borrowing costs due to high upfront costs.

from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the military, for Safety Operational Risk Assessment (SORA).

In his opening remarks at the briefing the Surveyor General of the Federation (SGOF), Abduganiyu Adebomehin, lauded all the government organisations for their collaboration to make the project a success,

Reiterating part of the benefits of the drone digital mapping, the SGOF

said that once the 3D mapping is concluded, it could serve many uses, including deployment in agriculture.

The Head of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing, Hafiz Azeez, whose office it is to supervise the project, said during drone digital mapping exercises, the privacy of members of the public and their safety would not in any way be compromised.

Responding at the SORA briefing, the General Manager,

General Aviation, NCAA , Capt. Maikano Wilson, expressed delight that the project is taking place and praised the cooperation of all concerned.

The company team leader and partner, Field Operation, Frank Pichel, said: “ We would be mindful of the environment during the exercise and take cognizance of peoples safety and all the regulations law will be followed strictly during the exercise.“

NERC Transfers Oversight of Plateau’s Electricity Market to PSERC

In compliance with the amended constitution of Nigeria and the Electricity Act 2023, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has issued an order to transfer regulatory oversight of the electricity market in Plateau state from the commission to the Plateau State Electricity Regulatory Commission (PSERC).

NERC, in a note, recalled that with the EA 2023, the commission

retains the role as a central regulator with regulatory oversight of interstate/international generation, transmission, supply, trading and system operations.

The law, it said, also mandates any state that intends to establish and regulate intrastate electricity markets to deliver a formal notification of its processes and requests NERC to transfer regulatory authority over electricity

operations in the state to the state regulator.

“Based on this, the Government of Plateau State complied with the conditions precedent in the laws, duly notified NERC and requested for the transfer of regulatory oversight of the intrastate electricity market in Plateau state.

“The transfer Order by NERC has the following provisions: Direct Jos Electricity Distribution Plc (JED)

to incorporate a subsidiary (JED SubCo) to assume responsibilities for intrastate supply and distribution of electricity in Plateau state from JED. “JED shall complete the incorporation of JED SubCo within 60 days from March 12, 2025. The sub-company shall apply for and obtain licence for the intrastate supply and distribution of electricity from PSERC, among other directives,” it stated.

IEA Sees Global Oil Market Surplus in 2025 on Declining Demand

Global oil supply could exceed demand by around 600,000 barrels per day this year, the International Energy Agency has said, due to growth led by the United States and weaker than expected global demand.

The outlook of ample supplies despite sanctions on major exporters Russia and Iran highlights the challenge for for the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) plus Russia and other allies,

in balancing the market.

Last month, the IEA had suggested a slightly narrower surplus of around 500,000 bpd, according to Reuters calculations based on the agency’s data.

World oil demand is now expected to rise by 1.03 million bpd in 2025, the IEA said, down 70,000 bpd from last month’s forecast, with growth driven largely by Asia and specifically China.

Why Isn’t Credit a Fundamental Human Right?

Uzoma Nwagba

Last weekend we marked the World Consumer Rights Day. I reflect on some of the seminal moments in recent history in which people demanded their rights. I remember the African anti-colonial movements of the 1950s, the US Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, and the Arab Spring of the 2010s. Surely millions of people did not march — even at the risk of death — just to have their rights “acknowledged.” They marched for what rights can do, i.e. enforce their freedom to live a dignified life. A dignified life requires access to basic decent experiences (such as a respectable home and community, reliable energy, mobility, education, connectivity, and healthcare). If a dignified life is central to our humanity, then access to credit — essential for many to activate such a life— should be considered a fundamental human right.

Now, let’s talk about Nigeria: a nation brimming with potential, yet shackled by a financial system that leaves most people out in the heat. The numbers don’t lie: only about 3% of Nigerian workers have accessed any formal consumer credit in the past year. To achieve the “visible impact” of consumer credit seen in the BRICS countries, Nigeria’s consumer credit sector would need to reach 50% of our GDP — that is, a staggering ₦176 trillion. We are not close; the current gap stands at ₦141.3 trillion. Multiples of the required capital already circulate within Nigeria’s financial system — or could be mobilized with minimal effort — but consumer credit remains out of reach for millions. This is not due to a lack of funds, but rather because trust in the system is broken.

This is more than a policy problem — it is also a problem of innovation. As argued by Clay Christensen and his co authors (Efosa Ojomo and Karen Dillon) in The Prosperity Paradox, true prosperity is not about pushing

resources; it is about creating markets. It is about applying market creating innovation to make a product or service widely accessible to a large swath of previous non consumers, thereby growing the industry and — consequently — attracting (pulling) the right infrastructure, regulation, and ecosystems to accelerate and sustain it.

In our application of the prosperity model, credit plays two roles:

• First, credit is a product. Like any product, it needs market creating innovation to reach those who have been left out. A few innovations that come to mind include mobile nano loans, instant credit decisions embedded at points of purchase (including in e commerce), “buy now, pay later” options

for basic goods, the simple digitisation of records from local savings groups to attract more loan capital, and tailored products for underserved groups (such as women and youth) designed specifically for their contexts. These are not just loans; they’re lifelines. We must accelerate the work of our innovators solving these. Innovations are also critical in the securitisation of loans — for example, by developing alternative forms of collateral and improving collections infrastructure. We should fully democratise the CBN’s movable collateral registry and global standing instruction (GSI) so that every kind of ethical lender can use it. We should also consider what additional assets people can pledge ethically — e.g. digital assets, agricultural output, perhaps even legally quantifiable labour — to engender more trust.

• Second, credit is a market creating innovation in itself. It unlocks access to products and services across other industries, thereby converting millions of previous non consumers of those products. It would fully democratise access to solar home systems, opening the door for a million first time consumers of constant, clean alternative energy. It brings another million people into the digital economy as first time owners of laptops and smartphones through credit (our current smartphone penetration is less than 30%). It is the antidote to transportation poverty, enabling millions others to purchase vehicles of all types. It facilitates access to improved or brand new homes. And for each of these industries — solar, electronics, mobility, construction, furniture — the benefits multiply: industries thrive, and jobs are created. This “dual efficacy of credit” makes it an incredibly powerful tool for self actualisation and a dignified life. There is therefore no reason why consumer credit — on an individual level — should not be

treated with the same gravity as a fundamental human right.

CREDICORP gets this. We’re not just pushing loans; we’re building an ecosystem. Our mandate is clear: to accelerate access to consumer credit for 50% of all working Nigerians by 2030. We’re laser focused on removing the structural, market, and policy barriers that hold Nigeria’s back from credit access.

• Strengthening Nigeria’s credit infrastructure: We want to ensure that every economically active citizen has a dependable and all encompassing credit score. This score becomes personal equity, facilitating further access to consumer credit.

• Offering wholesale capital and credit guarantees: We empower financial institutions to expand their reach.

• Driving a cultural reorientation: We promote understanding of responsible consumer credit as a tool for growth and empowerment, making it less daunting for both consumers and lenders (including technical assistance for lenders). Our growing impact and beneficiaries keep us going, on the journey to one million credit backed consumers across a series of initiatives. Our model relies heavily on co-creating with our growing list of partners, including financial institutions, regulators, aggregators, innovators, and multilateral organisations — on a journey that is not just long but exciting.

On this World Consumer Rights Day, we re-subscribe to the rights to life, to liberty, and to self-actualisation. For most people in a modern economy, self-actualisation starts with credit.

• Uzoma Nwagba is the Managing Director/CEO of the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation, a development finance institution of the Federal Government of Nigeria. He is a passionate advocate for personal empowerment, a global Dwight Eisenhower Fellow and Desmond Tutu Fellow, with a long track record driving impact at the intersection of technology and finance.

Adebiyi: Telecom is Backbone of Nigerian Digital Economy

The Founder, Whistles Alliance Integrated Services and former MTN Nigeria’s Chief Sales and Distribution Officer, Mr. Adekunle Adebiyi, shares his nearly 25 years’ experience on the evolution of Nigeria’s telecom sector and how it is driving digitisation of the Nigerian economy, e-commerce and financial inclusion. Excerpts

Your career in the telecom industry has spanned well over two decades, marked by several groundbreaking achievements. How would you describe the evolution of the telecom sector in Nigeria during this time?

Ihave watched Nigeria’s telecom industry evolve over the past 25 years, and it’s been an incredible journey. I joined the industry the same year GSM came to Nigeria, with Econet -the first GSM operator to go live in Nigeria; So I’ve had a front-row seat to its transformation—from the days when having mobile connectivity was a rare privilege to now, when telecom is the very backbone of our digital economy. One of the most remarkable changes has been the shift from voice-based services to a focus on data and digital transactions.

This evolution has opened up countless opportunities: it’s driven financial inclusion, boosted e-commerce, and sparked business growth, creating millions of jobs along the way. Of course, we still face challenges like expanding rural connectivity, keeping services affordable, and investing in better infrastructure. But I’m genuinely optimistic—if we get the policies right and keep pushing the boundaries of innovation, telecom will continue to drive Nigeria’s next phase of economic transformation.

GSM network operators are at the heart of Nigeria’s digital transformation. What key roles have they played in shaping the country’s digital economy, and what more can they do to accelerate growth?

GSM operators have been the foundation of Nigeria’s digital economy, enabling connectivity, commerce, and financial inclusion. In 2024, these operators contributed 16% to the country’s GDP. Over the years, they have expanded mobile broadband access and supported critical industries such as fintech, e-commerce, education, and government services. This robust infrastructure empowers both individuals and corporate bodies to achieve more—faster.

Looking ahead, growth will come from expanding into underserved regions, strengthening 5G adoption, and enhancing digital payment infrastructures. As the future of finance becomes increasingly mobile-first, GSM operators must continue to foster public-private partnerships. Additionally, sectors like healthcare and transportation are set to benefit even further from these advancements.

At MTN Nigeria, you led the enrollment of one million subscribers within six months for the National Identity Management Commission—a remarkable feat. How did you make it happen?

Thank you! That project was one of the most ambitious and rewarding challenges I’ve taken on. It wasn’t just about numbers; it was about strategy, speed, and execution at scale.

We knew that accessibility was key, so we leveraged MTN’s vast agent network to bring the registration process closer to the people—whether in cities, towns, or rural areas. We also introduced tech-driven solutions to speed up data capture and reduce delays, which made the process more efficient. To handle the volume, we mobilised and trained over 5,000 personnel across Nigeria, ensuring that the rollout was smooth and fast. And because awareness was crucial, we launched public education campaigns to encourage people to register.

The result is one I am proud. Over one million Nigerians registered within six months, and our efforts earned MTN the Best Telco Contribution Award from NIMC. For me, this experience reaffirmed the power of innovation, collaboration, and execution at scale—when you have the right strategy and team, even the biggest challenges can be turned into success stories.

Many in the industry have described your career as one built on integrity and fairness. What formed this disposition in you?

Integrity, to me, is the foundation of any successful career. Your values are your greatest asset—they open doors, build trust, and define your leadership. Another core value of mine is hard work. I’ve always believed that aligning my personal values with those of the organization I work for is essential in building trust and fostering genuine relationships. Throughout my career—whether in telecom, fintech, or consulting—I’ve prioritized three things: Transparency in decision-making—Being open and honest in all business dealings. Excellence in execution—Because results matter just as much as good intentions. I approach every role as an opportunity to create value, build strong relationships, and drive real impact. These principles, along with dedication and hard work, have been my guiding forces throughout my journey.

You faced a challenging period when you left MTN following allegations of misconduct, only to be cleared after a year-long investigation. What did you learn from that experience?

I am proud of my contributions to MTN and grateful for the opportunities I had. However, at that point, I no longer felt the environment was right for me, so I decided to move on. That experience taught me the power of resilience, patience, and the importance of truth prevailing.

After a year-long investigation, I was fully cleared, and I was paid all that was due to me. It was a difficult period, but I remained focused on my track record and the impact I had made, knowing that my work and integrity would ultimately stand the test of time. I still appreciate MTN, and I am proud of the legacy I built there—driving landmark achievements such as leading the team that crossed the N1 trillion revenue mark.

However, it became clear that it was time for a new chapter—one where I could continue to apply my expertise and drive impact in industries that align with my values and vision for innovation. Since then, I have continued to contribute meaningfully to telecoms, fintech, and financial inclusion, proving that real leadership is not about titles but about making a lasting difference. The lesson? Stay true to your values, trust in your work, and never let circumstances define your potential. In the end, results always speak louder than controversy.

Looking back at your 25 years in the telecom industry, what contributions are you most proud of?

I have been fortunate to lead some truly transformational projects that have shaped Nigeria’s telecom industry. When I think about my proudest moments, a few stand out.

One was driving MTN’s first ever N1 trillion revenue milestone it wasn’t just about the number, but about strategic execution, market expansion, and delivering real value. Another was expanding electronic recharge adoption to over 50%, which helped move the market toward digital transactions and financial inclusion.

I also led the restructuring of telecom distribution models, ensuring that our business partners remained profitable and sustainable, which in turn strengthened the entire ecosystem among others. But more than just the numbers, what matters most to me is the real impact—helping businesses grow, expanding access to telecom services, and driving innovation.

How has your experience in telecoms shaped your role in fintech and financial inclusion?

Telecoms and fintech are two sides of the same coin because financial inclusion thrives on connectivity. My telecom backgrousnd gave me firsthand experience in scaling business models through distribution, digital innovation, and consumer behaviour insights. This understanding was key when I moved into fintech, where my focus was on building financial solutions that leverage telecom infrastructure to reach unbanked and underserved Nigerians.

Telecoms and fintech are evolving together. What do you see as the most promising opportunities for digital transformation in Africa?

Africa has a promising economic outlook, with abundant natural resources, a growing population, and increasing urbanization. The biggest opportunity lies in deepening financial inclusion through mobile-driven services. Millions of Africans still lack access to banking, and telecom-powered fintech can change that. We have already started to see some level of adoption, but there is still work to be done.

Beyond finance, I see huge potential in digital identity systems—similar to

the NIN enrollment project I led. A wellintegrated digital ID system can unlock better access to financial services, healthcare, and government programs.

Additionally, 5G adoption, IoT, and AI-driven analytics will continue to revolutionise sectors like agriculture, logistics, and smart cities. With the right investments in connectivity and digital education, Africa can build scalable, technology-driven solutions that empower businesses and individuals.

Nigeria’s digital economy is on the rise, but challenges remain. What key steps should the country take to strengthen its digital ecosystem and attract more investments?

We have seen a lot of progress and there has been a steady increase in broadband access over the past few years, there’s still a pressing need to further improve both its quality and reach. Expanding broadband infrastructure isn’t just about adding more connections, but ensuring faster, more reliable services that can support advanced technologies like 5G, AI, and digital commerce.

Alongside this, implementing investmentfriendly policy reforms in the telecom and fintech sectors is essential. Equally important is the focus on digital literacy programs to equip young Nigerians with the tech skills needed for today’s digital landscape, and reinforcing cybersecurity measures to foster trust in digital transactions. I’ve seen firsthand how strong infrastructure fuels economic growth and I believe if we align on these priorities, Nigeria won’t just be a fast-growing digital economy—it will lead Africa’s digital revolution.

Digitalisation is widely seen as the backbone of the modern economy. In your opinion, is Nigeria attracting enough investments in its digital ecosystem? What could be done to create a more investor-friendly environment?

One of the biggest challenges is regulatory uncertainty. Right now, we see frequent policy changes, multiple layers of taxation, and regulatory overlaps that create hesitation for both local and foreign investors. We need a more transparent, streamlined regulatory framework that supports innovation rather than restricts it.

There is also a clear need for infrastructure investment, particularly in broadband expansion and 5G deployment. Without strong digital infrastructure, businesses cannot scale, fintech solutions cannot reach rural areas, and industries relying on digital tools will struggle to grow.

Another key factor is public-private partnerships (PPPs). The private sector has the expertise, technology, and capital, while the government has policy leverage and nationwide reach. A stronger, more structured collaboration can fast-track digital transformation in areas such as smart cities, e-government services, and digital financial inclusion.

We also need to improve investor confidence by tackling macroeconomic challenges such as currency volatility and access to foreign exchange, which can make long-term investments risky.

Finally, what’s next?

My focus remains on driving innovation in telecoms, fintech, and digital transformation—that’s where I believe I can make the biggest impact.

Beyond that, I’m deeply committed to giving back and creating opportunities for others. Education is something I’m passionate about, and I’ll continue to expand my sponsorship program, which has already helped over 150 students get the education they deserve.

I’m also consulting for global telecom firms, helping them scale their operations in emerging markets, using the experience I’ve gained over the years. And of course, I’m always exploring new ways to serve, whether in business, community development, or industry leadership. There’s still so much to do, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.

Adebiyi

Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE

Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com

08033025611 sms only

Akpabio’s Confidence Vote and Natasha’s Trial within Trial

The Senate recently passed voice vote of confidence on President of the Senate, Godswill akpabio, but the circumstances surrounding the suspension of Senator Natasha akpoti-Uduaghan is still haunting the Red Chamber of the National assembly. sunday Aborisade reports.

From allegations that the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct and Public Petitions allegedly attached attendance from one of their meetings to legitimize the report that suspended the Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, to the global attention drawn to her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, the upper chamber of the National Assembly is obviously in serious credibility crisis.

For instance, fresh controversy had trailed Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension as some senators, late last week distanced themselves from the report despite the inclusion of their signatures in the document attached to the report.

They claimed that the signatures attached to her suspension report were allegedly taken from the attendance register during one of their regular meetings.

They also argued that the signatures attached to the panel’s report were not for the endorsement of the suspension report.

The affected lawmakers during a closed-door meeting last week were angry that they were misrepresented hence creating an impression that they supported the suspension.

Some Senators who reportedly signed the committee’s report, were said to have disowned the document in the full glare of their colleagues. They were said to have even protested that they were denied the opportunity to peruse the final draft before it was presented on the floor of the Senate.

Observers believe that the face-saving measure adopted by the Senate leadership last week to pass a vote of confidence on Akpabio, notwithstanding, has not taken away the fact that only a review of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension process and a fair, unbiased and proper probe of her allegation of victimisation and sexual harassment can restore Nigerians’ confidence in the legislative body.

The crisis rocking the federal parliament snowballed into a national embarrassment last week with the dramatic appearance of the female Senator at an Inter Parliamentary Union (IPU) held at the United Nations headquarters in New York, United States where she drew global attention to her plight.

Akpoti-Uduaghan told the global body that

she was suspended for raising issue of sexual harassment against the Senate President.

The Senator did not, however, explain to her audience that she was actually punished for misconduct by causing uproar in the chamber while protesting the sudden change of her seat without her knowledge.

She sought international intervention in her suspension from the Senate and described the action taken against her as unlawful and a deliberate attempt to silence her for speaking out against alleged misconduct in the Nigerian upper legislative chamber.

In trying to douse the tension and embarrassment that AkpotiUduaghan’s allegation had created in the international community, the red chamber said her matter was already in the court of law, which would not allow the legislative institution from dabbling into it based on Order 40 of its standing rules.

The vote of confidence on Akpabio was passed during plenary following a motion moved by the Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (Ekiti Central) and seconded by the Senate Deputy Minority Leader, Senator Olalere Oyewumi (Osun West).

Bamidele rose under Orders 41 and 51 to raise a matter of urgent national importance to draw the attention of his colleagues to the public discourse

that had been diverting the attention of the Senate in the last two weeks.

The Senate Leader said, “Based on the kind of distraction that we have witnessed in the last two weeks as a Senate and as a representative of the Nigerian people, there is the need for us to rest this matter so that we can concentrate on the mandates for which we were elected by the Nigerian people.

“There’s no doubting the fact, or there’s no pretending about the fact that members of public have been genuinely interested in matters happening within this hallowed chamber in the last two weeks, especially with respect to the allegation by one of our distinguished members, home and abroad, as to whether or not she had been sexually harassed.

“I feel it is important once and for all that we place on record where we are on this matter and rest the matter as an institution so that we can concentrate while we allow the court of law and any other agencies who constitute such matters to do their job.

“I begin by recognizing the right of members of public to subject what we do to utmost scrutiny. And I recognize the fact that it is the people that can criticize the government, because we’re a part of the government.”

Bamidele stressed the need for the Senate to explain the true position of Nigerians who, he said, are currently being misled by wrong narratives in certain quarters.

He said, “I also want to make it clear to the public that the issue before us, as of the time we referred this matter to the Ethics and

o bservers believe that the face-saving measure adopted by the senate leadership last week to pass a vote of confidence on Akpabio, notwithstanding, has not taken away the fact that only a review of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension process and a fair, unbiased and proper probe of her allegation of victimisation and sexual harassment can restore n igerians’ confidence in the legislative body.

Privileges Committee, had nothing to do with sexual harassment.

“Some of the critics who have said this Senate allowed Senator Godswill Akpabio, the President of the Senate, to be a judge in his own case and to preside over his own matter, need to be told, with all due respect, that the matter before us and on which Senator Akpabio presided over, as the President of the Senate, had to do with the motion that was referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions.

“While we appreciate the concern of the public on this matter, I just want to emphasize that it is important that we also seek the understanding of the general public that we were elected to serve the people and we are guided.

“Whatever we do in this chamber, we are guided by rules. And these rules are also drawn pursuant to the Constitution of our country.

“So, it is not a rule of men. It is a rule of law. It is not about some men trying to gang up against a woman or anybody. It is about ensuring that our rules are respected.

“That is the only way we can guarantee peace, we can guarantee law and order. That is the only way we can have an atmosphere in which we will be able to do our job and serve the Nigerian people.

“Suspension, as far as we are concerned, is the only alternative to the kind of anarchy that the nation witnessed in the past, where members of parliament had reasons to shout, to get physically engaged with each other, to engage in acts of violence, to tear each other’s clothes and, you know, do all manners of things.”

Akpabio commended his colleagues for passing the confidence vote on him even as he faulted the appearance of Akpoti-Uduaghan at the IPU meeting, saying that her action had seriously embarrassed Nigeria.

Akpabio said, “I’m aware further that she (Akpoti-Uduaghan) has now externalise the matter by attempting to embarrass the Federal Republic of Nigeria by going to give a narrative at the IPU UN event, totally different from what occurred in the Senate.

NOTE:

Akpabio

Akpoti-Uduaghan

RETINAAD MEDIA LAUNCH...

L-R: Group Business Director, Wetherheads Advertising Group, Akintayo Victor Oni; Head of Brand Strategy and Business Development, Wetherheads Advertising Group,

Executive Chairman of Retinaad, Abiodun Iderawumi; Director of Partnership, Research, and Strategy, Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria, Sussie Agbo; Team Lead for Customer Success and Business Development, Retinaad, Benson Eikponobhoa; and Project Manager at Retinaad, Adekunle Obalusi, during the media launch of Retinaad Limited in Lagos, yesterday

Peter Obi: Tinubu’s Attempt to Silence People, Makes Progress of Country Difficult

Defends

corper who called president

‘terrible’ Presidential aide denies calling for her killing WELA threatens legal action against NYSC over alleged harassment of corps member

Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Wale Igbintade in Lagos Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in 2023, Mr Peter Obi, has said the pattern of intimidation adopted by the President Bola Tinubu-led administration to silence opposing views of people, discourages free speech and makes it difficult for the country to progress.

Obi, who stated this while speaking on the position of a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Miss Ushie Rita Uguamaye, who was allegedly facing threats from officials of the Scheme following her criticisms of Tinubu’s economic policies that have made life difficult for Nigerians, warned that suppressing dissenting voice undermines democracy and good governance.

This was as the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Temitope Ajayi, has clarified his post on the need for capital punishment to be meted out to the youth corper, for being rude to the president in a TikTok video posting.

At the same time, women Empowerment and Legal Aid (WELA) has warned that it would take legal action against the NYSC over alleged harassment and intimidation of thecorper serving in Lagos State.

Obi, in a statement on X, stressed that a government that silences its citizens often lacks accountability and transparency.

While condemning the alleged intimidation of the Miss Ushie Rita Uguamaye, Obi urged the Tinubu administration to embrace dialogue

as against repression on the issue of the NYSC corps member.

Obi shared his own experiences with harassment, saying he had faced threats and name-calling simply for offering constructive criticism of government policies and therefore called on Nigerians not to be intimidated into silence but to continue to advocate justice and accountability.

“Nigeria should be a country where citizens can voice their frustrations without fear and where leaders take immediate action to address pressing issues,” he said.

The former governor of Anambra State said listening to citizens’ concerns was essential for national development, especially in key sectors like education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation.

Ajayi Denies Calling for Corper’s Killing

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Temitope Ajayi, has clarified his post on the need for capital punishment to be meted out to a youth corper, Ms. Ushe Uguamaye, for being rude to President Bola Tinubu in a TikTok video posting.

Ajayi, in a statement, said at no point did he call for the killing of the corper.

He stated that his earlier Facebook posting was twisted out of its original meaning by mischief makers to suit their purpose.

The presidential aide confirmed he actually called for capital punishment to be meted out to the corper, which

was expulsion under the NYSC by-laws and protocol.

“It has become imperative to dispel the misrepresentation and patent mischief that has trailed my comment on a Facebook post.

“I suggested that flagrant and open abuse and disregard of NYSC by-laws and established protocol should attract the full NYSC disciplinary measures, particularly regarding a corps member’s recent display of imprudence.

“It is trite to say the maximum punishment under the NYSC protocol is expulsion; nothing beyond the established norms and laws is suggested or remotely implied.

“The NYSC scheme is a historic and treasured national programme that should not be sullied and ridiculed by indiscipline. It symbolises our triumph over division and consistent effort to forge a more potent and virile union.

“Most importantly, we should abide by our old cherished values of dignity, discipline, and respect for one another as citizens.”

The SSA also made further clarifications on his Facebook saying, “The mob get their oxygen from misrepresentations and deliberate mischief.

“I made comments under a post where I advertently wrote that what the lady corper did should attract capital punishment under NYSC which means her indiscretion should attract highest punishment under the NYSC scheme. The highest punishment under NYSC is expulsion.

“There was a follow-up comment under same thread where I provided the context in my usage of capital punishment under NYSC as a metaphor. The follow-up comment that explained the previous comment was ignored.

“It is common sense that there is no death penalty anywhere as punishment under NYSC law.”

WELA Threatens to Sue NYSC

Women Empowerment and

Legal Aid (WELA) has warned that it would take legal action against the NYSC over alleged harassment and intimidation of Uguamaye.

In a statement issued by WELA’s Founder and Chairperson, Mrs. Funmi Falana, SAN, the organisation condemned the reported threats against Uguamaye, stressing that any further intimidation would lead to a fundamental human rights lawsuit against her Local Government Inspector (LGI) and the NYSC.

“We call on the NYSC leadership to immediately put an end to any form of intimidation against Miss Uguamaye and to respect the rights of all corps members to freely express themselves without fear of persecution,” the statement read.

WELA further emphasised that freedom of speech was a constitutional right and that no Nigerian should face reprisals for expressing their opinions.

Uguamaye had, in a viral TikTok video, expressed frustration over Nigeria’s economic hardships, criticiz-

ing the government and describing the president as a “terrible leader.” She also voiced dissatisfaction with Lagos State’s living conditions. Following the video’s circulation, Uguamaye alleged that NYSC officials demanded she delete the post and that she was being targeted for speaking out.

In a subsequent video, she stated “Dear Nigerians, they have my address. In case you don’t see me online, please know who to hold accountable. I didn’t do anything wrong. I just spoke the truth about inflation and economic hardship. Why can’t I speak up?” She also accused an NYSC official of trying to identify her publicly, stating: “I am not a criminal. NYSC rules do not say I committed any crime. Why am I being hunted down for exercising my right to free speech?”

WELA has vowed to take immediate legal steps if the harassment continues, urging the NYSC to respect the constitutional rights of corps members.

NCAA Approves Resumption of Max Air Domestic Operations After Successful Audit

Kasim Sumaina

The Director-General, Nigeria

operations, after the successful completion of an economic and safety audit.

Max Air voluntarily suspended its domestic operations for 90 days after a series of incidents on its flights.

This decision, effective from midnight on January 31, 2025, was welcomed by the NCAA.

During the suspension period, the NCAA conducted a thorough safety and economic audit of the airline.

DANGOTE TO BUILD 18M MTA CEMENT PLANT IN ITORI, LARGEST SEAPORT AT OLOKOLA OGUN STATE

In a statement from the Senator Ibikunle Amosun Media Office, signed by Lanre Akinwale, Amosun said the assumption that everyone had a price was the basis of Dangote’s attack on him.

Dangote had, in a viral footage, accused the Amosun administration of demolishing his Itori Cement Plant on two different occasions, while commending his successor, Dapo Abiodun, for facilitating his return to site.

But Amosun, in his response, titled, “Re: Government Demolished My Cement Factory Twice,” said, “While we will not give vent to this obvious mischief, as it is deliberate, we will advise Alhaji Dangote to furnish the public with details of the land acquisition with relevant planning

approvals, and let us engage in a constructive conversation therefrom.

“However, while we will wait to hear from him, we will like to state that not all Nigerians can be compromised, bullied or blackmailed. The notion that everyone has a price is an expression applicable only to people with weak foundations and questionable upbringing. This is why some of us will continue to uphold high standards in all our undertakings, irrespective of whose ox is gored.”

According to him, “We have just seen a footage in which the Chairman of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, alleged that his cement factory in Itori, Ogun State, was demolished twice while Senator Ibikunle Amosun served as governor.

“We assume that an average person understands how government functions through Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, with each exercising mandates on specific responsibilities, including approvals for physical development.

“It is on this basis that we want to appeal to Alhaji Dangote to avail the public of the requisite approvals for the construction of the structures he alleged were demolished. This will, at least, help the public to put the issue in proper context and for us to know what exactly his grouse is.

“For us, as a government, we believed that there could not be two governments in a state, and Dangote, therefore, could not operate above the law or under a different

set of laws.”

Amosun also said, “It is important to note that at the commissioning of his Ibese Cement factory, Dangote praised the Amosun administration to high heavens for its promotion of investments in Ogun State and for facilitating the commencement of the cement factory after eight years of frustration as he then alleged by other administrations.

“Dangote is just one of the many going concerns in Ogun State, and the Amosun administration is on record to have attracted over 500 companies to the state and was acknowledged by the World Bank as one of the top three states ensuring Ease-of-Doing-Business in Nigeria.

“Highlighted as one of the top reforming states in 2014, which

marked a significant improvement from its previous rankings, the World Bank report attributed this progress to substantial reforms across multiple indicators like construction permits and property registration.

“It is also on record that during Senator Amosun’s administration, Ogun State became the ‘Industrial Capital’ of Nigeria. Our state at the time accounted for about 75 per cent of the Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs), in relation to industry in the country. This is a fact subject to verification.

“This recognition was further given fillip to by former president, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, when he visited Ogun State to commission multinational projects on five different occasions.”

The safety audit involved a comprehensive re-inspection of Max Air’s organisation, procedures, personnel, and aircraft, in line with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations 2023. This audit took place from 26th to 28th February 2025.

A statement on Monday by the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, NCAA, Michael Achimugu, read in part: “Given the results of the audit, which confirm Max Air’s capacity to sustain safe flight operations, the airline will resume domestic flights, effective from midnight on March 17, 2025.”

The statement further said the NCAA would continue to monitor Max Air closely through an enhanced surveillance programme to ensure strict compliance with its regulations.

“The Authority remains committed to ensuring that all airlines adhere to the highest safety standards for the continued well-being of the aviation industry,” the statement stated.

in Abuja

Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Ona Najomo, has approved for Max Air to resume its domestic flight

Emonena Kagho;

LAUNCHING NIGERIA’S ONLINE MORTGAGE  PROCESSING PLATFORM...

L-R: Sales Manager, Novathink Investment & Technology Limited, Alabi Yusuf; Operations Manager, Novathink Investment & Technology Limited, Damilola Akorede  Executive Assistant to the Cofounder/Chief Business Officer, Novathink Investment & Technology Limited,  Caroline Inyang, and Business Development Executive, Novathink Investment & Technology Limited Lukman Idris, during  Green Mortgage launched Nigeria’s online mortgage processing, approval platform in partnership with Thinkmint Nigeria... recently.

WHO: Nigeria, Seven Other Countries May Run Out of HIV Drugs After USAID’s Cuts

The Donald Trump administration’s decision to pause US foreign aid has “substantially disrupted” supply of

HIV treatments in Nigeria and seven other countries, which mightsoon run out of the life-saving medicines, the World Health Organisation (WHO), said yesterday.

The global health agency said Haiti, Kenya, Lesotho, South Sudan, Burkina Faso, Mali, Nigeria and Ukraine could exhaust their supply of HIV treatments in the coming

months.

“The disruptions to HIV programmes could undo 20 years of progress,” WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus, said at a press

Ex-Banker Testifies in Alleged Arik

Wale Igbintade

Air

A former Union Bank staff, Mr. Peter Omokaro, testified yesterday before the Ikeja Special Offences Court in the ongoing trial of a former Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) Managing Director, Ahmed Kuru, over an alleged N76 billion fraud.

Kuru and four others were accused of defrauding Arik Air of N76 billion and $31.5 million.

The other defendants included the former Receiver Manager of Arik Air Ltd., Kamilu Omokide; the airline’s Chief Executive Officer, Capt. Roy Ilegbodu; Union Bank Ltd, and Super Bravo Ltd. Omokaro, the first prosecution witness, was led in evidence by Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) counsel, Dr. Wahab Shittu.

N76bn Fraud Case

A retired Assistant General Manager at Union Bank, Omokaro stated that he worked at the bank from 1980 until his retirement in 2015.

He told the court that he was invited by the EFCC to make a statement regarding the case.

According to Omokaro, Arik Air had approached Union Bank for financial support to purchase aircraft.

However, instead of disbursing cash, the bank provided guarantees for loans that Arik Air secured from foreign financial institutions — HSBC Bank and the US EXIM Bank — to facilitate the purchase of aircraft from Airbus and Boeing.

“Union Bank only guaranteed the facilities secured by Arik Air. The bank, in turn, collected indemnity from the airline, and the aircraft

were delivered,” he testified.

Omokaro explained that in August 2009, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) intervened in Union Bank’s management.

Subsequently, AMCON acquired the bank’s non-performing loans. However, he claimed that Union Bank mistakenly included the guarantees in the assets sold to AMCON.

By early 2011, realising the error, a meeting was held in London involving AMCON, Union Bank, HSBC Bank, and US EXIM Bank — but without Arik Air’s participation.

He said Union Bank attempted to correct the mistake by stepping in as the obligor to take over Arik Air’s responsibility.

However, the primary lenders never called in the guarantee, nor did Union Bank demand indemnity from Arik Air,” Omokaro stated.

Asharami Energy Partners UNEP on Environmental Sustainability in Upstream Oil Sector

Asharami Energy, a Sahara Group upstream company, has joined the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP)-led Oil and Gas Methane Partnership (OGMP) 2.0, in its bid to contribute to the global efforts geared towards methane abatement and reduction of fugitive emissions.

The development, which makes Asharami Energy the first indigenous Nigerian oil and gas operator, and amongst the first in Africa, to achieve this milestone, further reinforces Sahara Group’s commitment to environmental sustainability through responsible emissions management.

Chief Technical Officer, Sahara Upstream, Leste Aihevba, announced the partnership in a statement issued yesterday.

“This is a significant milestone as it signifies our voluntary commitment to sustainability and focus on ESG, which is becoming increasingly important for demonstrating prudent stewardship and climate

sensitive oil and gas development,”

Aihevba stated.

OGMP 2.0 is the most comprehensive, measurement-based reporting framework for the oil and gas sector, recognised globally as the standard for monitoring, reporting, and verifying methane emissions.

Membership in OGMP 2.0 allows Asharami Energy to enhance its emissions data accuracy, align with international best practices, and design targeted mitigation strategies that address the largest sources of methane emissions.

This is expected to boost Asharami Energy’s strategic emissions reduction efforts, fostering transparency and accountability in line with the Global Methane Pledge to reduce global methane emissions by at least 30 percent by 2030.

Aihevba also highlighted Asharami Energy’s focus on operational excellence and reiterated the technical and operational benefits of the partnership with UNEP.

“Joining OGMP 2.0 marks a transformative step for Asharami

Energy.

“It allows us to improve methane abatement and fugitive emissions measurement and transparency while adopting globally recognised strategies for emission reduction.

“By leveraging the insights and frameworks provided by UNEP, we are set to enhance our environmental impact mitigation approach, ensuring that our operations meet and exceed international best practices,” he noted.

Aihevba added that Asharami Energy had since outlined strategic measures aimed at promoting emissions reduction and resource efficiency across all the company’s assets.

“Membership of OGMP 2.0 is just one of the expressions of our commitment to securing the future of the Energy sector responsibly.

“From our remarkable safety standards to collaboration with all stakeholders, especially our host communities, we are actively playing a leading role in transforming upstream operations in Africa,” he added.

He insisted that Union Bank never granted a direct loan to Arik Air and that the airline had not defaulted on its payments.

Instead, he alleged that the bank converted the guarantee into cash to obtain funds from AMCON.

“Union Bank never disbursed cash for the aircraft acquisition. Arik Air remained up to date with its payments,” he told the court.

The prosecution submitted five documents related to the transaction, which the court admitted as evidence.

During cross-examination, Omokaro acknowledged that Ahmed Kuru and Capt. Roy Ilegbodu were not involved in the transaction when it took place in 2010.

“I was not present at the London meeting myself,” he admitted.

Kuru’s lawyer, Mr. Olasupo Shasore (SAN), emphasised that his client was not the Managing Director of AMCON at the time of the deal.

Meanwhile, Union Bank’s counsel, Mr. Olalekan Ojo (SAN), questioned Omokaro about a lawsuit he had previously filed against the bank over his alleged wrongful termination.

The court has adjourned further hearings until March 19, 2025.

conference, reported by Reuters. He added that this could lead to over 10 million additional HIV cases and 3 million HIV-related deaths.

Efforts to tackle HIV, polio, malaria and tuberculosis have been impacted by the US foreign aid pause implemented by President Trump shortly after he took office in January.

The WHO-coordinated Global Measles and Rubella Laboratory Network, with over 700 sites worldwide, also faces imminent shutdown, the agency said.

This comes at a time when measles is making a comeback in the United States.

The United States has a “responsibility to ensure that if it withdraws direct funding for countries, it’s done in an orderly and humane way that allows them to find

alternative sources of funding,” Ghebreyesus said. Funding shortages could also force 80 per cent of WHO-supported essential health care services in Afghanistan to close, the agency said in a separate statement.

As of March 4, 167 health facilities had shut down due to funding shortages, and without urgent intervention, over 220 more facilities could close by June.

The United States’ plans to exit the WHO, have also forced the UN agency, which typically receives about a fifth of its overall annual funding from the U.S, to freeze hiring and initiate budget cuts.

The WHO said yesterday that it planned to cut its funding target for emergency operations to $872 million from $1.2 billion in the 2026-2027 budget period.

UK Commits to Restoring Peace in North-East

Michael Olugbode in Maiduguri

The United Kingdom has expressed its commitment to the restoration of peace, stability and sustainable solutions to the troubled Northeast region, which has been bedeviled by insurgency.

The British Deputy High Commissioner, Gill Atkinson, made the commitment yesterday when she paid a courtesy call on the Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum in Maiduguri.

Atkinson, however, commended Zulum for his commitment to fighting insurgency in Borno State.

“On behalf of the British Government, I recognise the effort of His Excellency, the Governor, in tackling insurgency and supporting the

people of Borno State, particularly aiming to secure a prosperous future for the people displaced by insurgency. “I want to reaffirm the UK’s commitment to supporting peace, stability and sustainable solutions, particularly through the ongoing regional stabilisation facility,” he said. Responding, Secretary to Borno State Government who received the Deputy High Commissioner on behalf of Zulum, expressed appreciation to the UK Government for their partnership and support. He said, “With the UK Government to start with, we have quite a number of very strong partnerships. His Excellency appreciates it, and he specifically instructed me to convey the special message of appreciation.”

Akume Distances Self from Aide Accused of Graft

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has been exculpated of involvement in alleged financial misconduct bothering on corruption, bribery, money laundering and investigation of his Personal Assistant, Andrew Torhile Uchi, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The rebuttal was issued yesterday in a statement by the Director, Information and Public Relations, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), Segun Imohiosen.

The statement insisted that the OSGF leadership was not in any way involved in the al-

leged misconduct, maintaining its commitment to transparency, accountability, and integrity.

“We recognise the efforts of the EFCC on this matter to ensure that those found culpable are held accountable. However, we urge the public not to speculate or draw conclusions as investigations are still ongoing.

“The OSGF appreciates the understanding and support of the public on this matter,” the statement said.

The OSGF’s rebuttal was on the heel of the alleged investigation of Uchi presently with EFCC, over allegations bordering on corruption, bribery and money laundering to the tune of N10 billion.

The investigation was said to be sequel to a petition dovetailing the properties he allegedly acquired in Abuja, Jos, Makurdi, Gboko and Wannune in Tarka Local Government Area of Benue State, amounting to over N6 billion.

A report in the media last week alleged that the EFCC from the investigation carried out from December 2023 to date, had traced about N1.6 billion of money that was allegedly used in buying porch cars through four new generations banks to nine car dealers in Abuja, Kaduna, Lagos, Jos and Makurdi respectively. Two Bureaux de Change operators were also said to in detention for their role in the money laundering scam.

Peter Uzoho

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

GOLDEN MORN LAUNCH…

L-R: Commercial Manager, Nestle Nigeria Plc, Mr. Boladale Odunlami; Corporate Communications, Public Affairs and Sustainability Lead, Victoria Uwadoka; Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Wassim Elhusseini; Category Manager, Dairy, Mr.Omofasa Orhiunu; Country, Human Resources Manager, Mr. Shakiru Lawal; Country Controller, Mr. Namit Mishra, and Business Manager, Nestlé Professional, Funmilayo Osineye, at the unveiling of the Golden Morn 3IN1 in Lagos… yesterday

EFCC Arrests Suspended Edo PSRT Coordinator for Alleged Naira Abuse

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin city

Operatives of the Benin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested the suspended Coordinator of Edo State Public Safety Response Team (PSRT), Mr. Kelly Okungbowa (a.k.a Ebo Stone) for alleged naira abuse.

The EFCC’s Head, Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, revealed this in a statement yesterday.

Okungbowa, who was suspended by the state government over the reckless behaviour of his team which led to the killing of a two-yearold girl, was arrested by the anti-crime agency owing to a viral video where he was

Jandor Returns to APC after Meeting with Tinubu

Segun James

A week after he met President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Bauja, the 2023 Governorship Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State, Dr. Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran, aka, Jamdor, has returned to the All Progressives Congress(APC). He left the party to PDP in 2022.

Adediran said the decision followed consultations with prominent aides of President Bola Tinubu, including the Chief of Staff, Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila and the President’s son, Mr Seyi Tinubu, who he said had been talking to him in the last one year on his possible return.

Adediran who disclosed this at a press conference in Lagos yesterday, said he left the PDP due to problems with the party’s leaders in the state, especially, Chief Bode George, whom he accused of driving every governorship

candidate in the party out.

He made the proverb that until a woman goes through two husbands, she will never know which is better. This he admitted now applied to him, hence, he had to return to the APC after experiencing the difference between both parties.

Jandor had on March 3 dumped PDP over what he described as anti-party activities of some leaders of the party in Lagos State.

He said that his decision to dump PDP followed meetings with the party’s leadership, especially former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar and other prominent political bigwigs in the country on the antipathy activities of some leaders of the party in the state.

“In the process of consultation, we had crucial discussions with some leaders of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), APC, African Democratic Congress (ADC), Young Progressive Party (YPP) among others.”

Fire Destroys Benue Rice Mill in Makurdi

Properties worth millions of naira have been razed by fire at the popular rice mill market in Wurukum, Makurdi, Benue State. Two shops were destroyed with all the rice processing machines, including processed and nonprocessed rice and other items burnt.

The fire incident was said to have happened last Sunday night at about 10p.m. before men of the state fire service swiftly intervened to put out the fire preventing it from spreading to other shops nearby.

One of the affected shop owners, Mrs. Hanmaikyur Mercy, visibly worried about her burnt shop, said she started the shop in December 2023 with about N10 million now lost to the fire, wonders how she could start over again with the current economic situation.

seen spraying and mutilating the naira at a bar on March 9, 2025.

The statement read: “The EFCC has arrested Kelly

Okungbowa (a.k.a Ebo Stone) for alleged naira abuse.

“Okungbowa, who until recently was the Coordinator of the Edo State Public Safety

Response Team (PSRT), now suspended by the State government, was arrested owing to a viral video where he was seen spraying and

mutilating the naira at a bar on March 9, 2025. “He will be charged to court as soon as investigations are completed.”

Scores Injured, Houses Torched as Plateau Community Erupts in Crisis

Seriki Adinoyi in Jos

Scores of persons have been injured and houses and shops torched after a disagreement between traditional worshippers and Muslim youths in Shimankar community of Shendam Local Government Area of Plateau State degenerated in mayhem.

A source from the community said that the violence, which started on Sunday night, lasted till yesterday morning, leaving monumental destruction in the aftermath.

The source said that residents including women and children fled the community to safety, while business activities have completely collapsed.

s of the time of filing this report, the state Police Public

The source, who preferred anonymity, said that the crisis began when traditional worshippers were performing a rite through the community and were waylaid by Muslim youths in the area leading to disagreement and breakdown of law and order.

Relation Officer, Mr. Alfred Alabo, was yet to respond to inquiries about the development. However, Major Samson Zhakom, spokesperson of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), a multi-security task force keeping peace in Plateau said he communicated with relevant security authorities in the troubled and revert.

I Won’t Abandon You to Suffer, Oyebanji Assures Rainstorm Victims

Gbenga Sodeindeinadoekiti

The Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has assured those who fell victims of rainstorm in some communities that the government won’t abandon them to suffer at this trying time.

Oyebanji said just as he had displayed in the past, the government would provide

relief materials to the victims to rebuild their damaged structures. He regretted how citizens were subjected to harrowing experience of homelessness due to the incident in many parts of the state.

Oyebanji gave the assurance yesterday, while inspecting buildings affected by rainstorm in Iyin, Ifaki and Usi Ekiti, with scores of victims rendered homeless

in the three towns.

Mostly hit by the tornado were private residential buildings, Police Staff Quarters, religious centres, and lock-up shops, spread across the three towns.

Speaking during the on- the- spot assessment, Oyebanji, represented by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, restated the imperative of landlords conducting

regular maintenance on their structures to abate the recurrent cases of building collapse during stormy downpour.

The governor said embracing the maintenance culture, coupled with tree planting around residential buildings to break the storm, are two strategic panaceas to avert landlords falling victims of this traumatising occurrence.

Youngest Lawmaker Initiates Two Bills on Corruption, Religion in Kwara

Hammed ShittuinIlorin

A Nigeria’s youngest lawmaker, who is representing Owode/ Onire constituency in Asa Local Government Council of Kwara State, Hon. Rukayat Shittu, has initiated two bills in the State House of Assembly.

The two bills are Unexplained Wealth Bill, 2025 and Religious

Preaching and Religious Entrepreneurship Regulation Bill, 2025

The two proposed bills are designed to combat corruption and regulate religious exploitation in the state.

Already, the State House of Assembly has prepared for heated debates on the bills that political observers believe the outcome

could set a new precedent for governance, transparency, and religious accountability in the state and Nigeria as a whole.

The lawmaker in a statement yesterday said: “The Unexplained Wealth Bill, 2025 seeks to empower authorities to investigate and prosecute individuals who accumulate suspicious wealth beyond their known legitimate income.

“The bill is seen as a direct attempt to tackle illicit enrichment and deter corruption in both public and private sectors. “This bill is about fairness and accountability.” Hon. Shittu added: “We cannot allow corruption to thrive unchecked. Those who cannot explain their wealth should be held accountable.”

Benue Judiciary Crisis: Coalition Protests in Abuja, Petitions NJC

He said: “We only met fire service on ground putting out the fire, that is just what we could see and this morning as we came to see the shop, everything was gone. We are calling on the state government to help restore our business no matter how small.”

While, the Chairman, Wurukum rice mill market, Terva Igyar, stated that two shops were burnt, including a motorcycle, about six milling machines, bags of rice and other items.

He said he was touch with the Makurdi Local Government Area chairman and the other stakeholders in the development who are coming to assess the situation.

Mercy called on the state Governor, Hyacinth Alia, to help her to bounce back, noting that her three machines, de-stoning machines, polishing and others are gone, including bags of rice. Her son, Iorwa Jeremiah, who describes the situation as unfortunate, said not a single item, not even a bag of rice was removed from their shop as at the time they got there when they were called that fire had engulf their shop.

A group, Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Nigeria has petitioned the National Judicial Council (NJC) , the Chief Justice of the Federation, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun and President Bola Tinubu over the ongoing crisis rocking the Benue state judiciary.

The Chief Convener, Igwe Ude-Umanta, who led a protest yesterday in Abuja said the court of law which was supposed to be the arbiter of

Access ARM Pensions Expands

Oluchi Chibuzor

Access ARM Pensions Limited has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a seamless customer experience by integrating advanced digital solutions and personalised service offerings.

justice where the constitution is interpreted without bias, but today, the reverse is the case and has become more politicised than registered political parties.

The protesters armed with various placards with

inscription like: “Enough of procured court order, Corrupt judges must be expunged from the system,” among others. He said the country’s democracy was in clear danger, saying Kekere-Ekun must save it.

Digital Offerings to Enhance Customer Experience

As part of its strategic vision, the pension fund administrator is leveraging technology and its expanded institutional capacity following the 2024 merger of Access Pensions and ARM Pensions to enhance efficiency and drive financial security for its contributors.

At a recent webinar titled: ‘Retire Ready: The Access ARM Advantage’, senior executives emphasised the company’s focus on service excellence, investment performance, and customer-centric solutions.

Speaking at the event, Head

of Strategy and Products (North), Maryam Musa, highlighted the company’s commitment to enhanced service delivery. She noted that Access ARM is harnessing technology to create a seamless pension experience, ensuring 24/7 accessibility through self-service channels.

Chekwas Okorie: Why I Disagreed with Obasanjo on Lagos-Calabar

Segun James

The Founder of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief Chekwas Okorie, has lamented what he described as distortion of facts and deliberate malicious propaganda against the Lagos-Calabar

Highway contract, saying such talk is a disservice to the development of the country.

Okorie said he particularly disagreed with the statement of former President Olusegun Obasanjo that the project is “wasteful and a fraud.”

“The recent public presentation of former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s book wherein he described the Lagos-Calabar Highway as ‘wasteful and a fraud’ compelled me to weigh in on this debate. I have immense respect for President Obasanjo. In the absence of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe,

Highway

the first republic president of Nigeria and Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the first republic Premier of the old Western Region, President Obasanjo unarguably is the most prolific author amongst Nigeria’s former Heads of State or Presidents on national issues since Nigeria’s independence in 1960.

Adedayo Akinwale in abuja

THE EMERGING COALITION AGAINST TINUBU/APC

inconsequential “inordinate ambition”, “political gyration” that should not disturb anybody, “a mistake”. I do not consider these responses robust and convincing enough. El-Rufai has knocked the very foundations of the party and maligned the President and the best that the APC and Tinubu’s spokespersons can come up with are dismissive one-liners? Not good enough. Not good enough. It would be risky to underestimate or downplay the El-Rufai threat. The Tinubu Presidency should not make the mistake that the Jonathan Presidency made in 2013/2014. When disgruntled politicians started gathering to talk about forming a formidable opposition to the incumbent administration at the time, there were persons in the corridors who boasted that they were making a mistake. I was in the corridors of power then, and I heard some commentators saying that the people in the APC were well-known customers (“customer daa da ni”), and that they would be given what would calm them down. In fact, some members of that coalition at the time even recommended persons to be appointed to the Board of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and they were given appointments. By the time, the ruling PDP and the Jonathan camp realized what was going on, the conspirators within and without had perfected their art of treachery. I am aware that there are some people who are of the firm view that Tinubu is not Jonathan or that 2027 is not 2015, whatever they mean by that, but it is precisely that level of over-confidence and arrogance that could give teeth to the anti-Tinubu plotters. It is wiser not to ever underestimate the opposition, conspirators or fifth columnists. Goliath underestimated David. Lao Tzu, Chinese philosopher, says: There is no greater danger than underestimating your opponent.” George S. Patton, United States Army General, advises, in addition that: “You shouldn’t underestimate an enemy, but it is just as fatal to overestimate him”. The latter part of General Patton’s statement should be carefully underlined and it is possible to extrapolate that the anti-Tinubu coalition faces by its very creation, a number of hurdles. I shall attempt to identify a few.

One, the coalition is bound to be torn apart by the ambition of some of the major partners on the question of which part of the country should their Presidential candidate come from. It stands to reason that some key members of the coalition, from the Northern part of Nigeria would expect to be appointed the flagbearer, which however is likely to be unpopular with the conspirators from the South. The politics of region, geography, religion, and ethnicity is one of the major fault lines in Nigerian democracy. It is never a question of merit but always about where you come from and the type of religion you belong to. This was a major issue in 2010, after the death in office of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, also in 2011, and again in both 2015 and 2023, as it would be most certainly in 2027, and as it has been since the First Republic. After eight years of the Buhari/ Northern Presidency, the Southern partners in the emerging coalition would naturally insist that to replace Tinubu who would have spent four years, the remaining four years must naturally, mutatis mutandis, go to a Presidential candidate of Southern extraction.

Two, in determining the identity of that Presidential candidate of Southern extraction, the ethnic fight would also be more intense at the micro-Southern level. Igbo members of the

President Goodluck Jonathan. At the time, there was very little talk about what the APC coalition wanted to do for the Nigerian people. It was all about personal ambitions and less about good governance and promoting the common good. As it were, however, politics as a wise man once told me is a question of strategy. In Nigeria, the man with the better strategy wins and that means winning by all and any means possible, while the aggrieved party is advised to go to court! Nigerian courts are also not beyond strategy or technicalities. Senator Adeseye Ogunlewe, former Minister of Works, in an interview on TMS/Arise News recently was quite effusive in describing President Tinubu as “a master of the game.” The current onslaught by his political adversaries may yet be the biggest challenge to his political craftsmanship. The anti-Tinubu assailants do not hide the fact that they want to teach him just one lesson: that Nigeria is not Lagos, it is a much bigger deal, with peculiar complexities. It would be interesting to see how the strategies play out and who wins or loses in the end.

Nasir El-Rufai discriminatory practices.

coalition would of course insist that the strongest message that the coalition can convey is to zone the Presidency specifically to the South East, to allay the fears of Igbos about being marginalized out of the highest office in the land. South-South politicians are also likely to play the politics of entitlement. Already, some politicians from that region are pushing the view that if any party wants an alternative to President Tinubu from the South, the best bet would be to allow President Jonathan to return for a second term in office, a clear assurance that after four years of another Jonathan Presidency, power would simply rotate back to the North. Nobody should rule out the interest of South West politicians either. Some of the names that have been mentioned in connection with the emerging coalition, even if they have not personally confirmed their involvement, are also persons who would not hesitate to throw their hats into the ring, should the opportunity present itself. One or two of the names that have been mentioned would most likely insist that the candidate must not be any of Tinubu’s Lagos boys, whether that person has fallen out of favour with Asiwaju or not. Even among those former Tinubu allies who may be tempted to betray him openly, there is a deep-seated resentment of those they regard as Tinubu’s Lagos boys who have been

majorly the ones who have benefitted from his administration so far. The foreseeable in-fighting and intrigues within the new coalition would be the biggest threat that it faces.

Three, there will be a problem with the chosen SDP platform. Mr. Adewole Adebayo, the Presidential candidate of the party in the 2023 Presidential election has stated categorically during an interview on The Morning Show (TMS) of Arise News that he will most certainly be the Presidential candidate of the party in 2027. When reminded of the timbre and calibre of some of the names that have been mentioned as moving into the SDP, he retorted that the SDP is “my party” and that no new person joining the party can come and take his party away from him! As it is, except Adebayo changes his mind through negotiations, and guarantees, the SDP may not promise any safe landing. This is meant to be a grouping of the opposition, but the Labour Party, the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have declared that their own platforms should be the destination, rallying spot for opposition politics.

Four, is history repeating itself? When the now divided bedfellows formed the All Progressives Congress in 2013, it was more or less a special purpose vehicle, and no more than that, to take power back to the North, defeat the PDP, and unseat

NIGER’S CRIPPLING FUEL CRISIS: A WARNING TO AES COUNTRIES

The two countries are said to be working to avoid a break-down of relations, particularly in the critical oil sector, which has also been hit by unresolved disputes over the Niger-Benin oil pipeline, a project designed to boost Niger’s crude exports.

The military junta had failed to publicly acknowledge the gravity of the economic crisis, with the State-controlled media reportedly ordered to maintain a news blackout on the national fuel shortages and the general economic hardship. But public anxiety is mounting amid spiralling inflation, high unemployment, especially among youths, and high cost of living, with desperate motorists resorting to the costly black-market for fuel, that is where the scarce commodity was available.

Despite the AES countries’ populist and arrogant posturing to leave ECOWAS, the regional organisation has left open, diplomatic channels for negotiations and rapprochement.

Ghana’s President John Mahama recently paid visits to the military governments of the three countries, with bilateral and regional issues featuring in the discussions.

Also, as the AES region grapples with heightened jihadist attacks and regional instability, a high-level nine-man delegation from the three countries visited Nigeria recently to understudy non-kinetic approaches to combating violent extremism.

Informed sources said the visit was in recognition of a policy shift in Nigeria borne out of the realisation that military option alone cannot defeat terrorism and insurgency. A recent study showed that about 7% of terrorist groups that operated between 1968 and 2006 were militarily defeated, while more than 40% of groups ended their violence through negotiated settlements.

The AES countries, which accused ECOWAS of being under external influence, as part of the

Senator Heineken Lokpobiri

reasons for their withdrawal, have severed major ties with Paris, closed French military bases and expelled French soldiers from their territories as part of their professed assertion of sovereignty and independence. However, all three are still members of the West African Economic and Monetary Union, UEMOA, with French affiliation.

The French Treasury controls the national currency of the three countries, the franc CFA, fixes the exchange rate, and maintains their bank reserves.

The junta leaders are also broadening relations with Russia and China, including military cooperation with Russia, while accusing ECOWAS of being under foreign influence.

But as the experience from the Niger fuel short-

What I find amusing is a story in The Guardian newspaper of March 17, 2025 titled: “2027: Wike, others affirm support for Tinubu’s second term amid opposition.” Despite the fact that President Tinubu has publicly praised and endorsed Nyesom Wike, the FCT Minister, and would seem to have taken his side in the “One Day, One Trouble” debacle in Rivers State, I do not consider Wike the right and proper person to lead Tinubu’s defence in the public arena. Wike’s belligerent politics should be seen as a costly embarrassment to President Tinubu. He has every right to affirm his loyalty to the President but he does not have what it takes to “help” him against those who want him out of power. The politics that he plays in Rivers State is precisely one of the reasons the opposition is against Tinubu. They accuse him of a Napoleonic approach to power, and so, they are organizing to confront him with their War of The Coalition. The Bourbons are knocking on Tinubu’s doors. Nyesom Wike who carries on as if he is doing Tinubu’s bidding in Rivers State, imposing himself as a Godfather, issuing threats and having his way, one man proving to be more important than the entire state, holding the people to ransom is the kind of impunity that Nasir El-Rufai deplores. It is all the more scandalous as Wike is a mercenary in the APC, a PDP implant behaving like a co-President in an APC government. Wike even organized a media chat with a crew larger than that of President Tinubu! He has now instructed the 27 pro-Wike lawmakers to serve a notice of impeachment on Governor Simi Fubara, barely a week after he boasted that the impeachment of a Governor does not amount to a criminal offence. But the worse chink in his armour is how his obstruction of the democratic process could have grave implications for Nigerian democracy. President Tinubu is advised to remember the blow-out in the Western region during the First Republic. The setting then is similar to the Rivers situation today: the conflict of egos, political gladiators, and the reign of impunity. When the Western region eventually exploded, what became known as the “Wild, Wild West”, the fire that was generated led to cracks across the entire Nigerian estate. History repeats itself tragically, and farcically, for those who refuse to learn from it.

ages and the cut of development aid by advanced economies have shown, regional cooperation and integration are the more realistic options for Africa’s sustained development and survival.

Speaking at the Munich Security Conference (MSC) in Germany in February, President Mahama described the USAID pullback by the President Donald Trump administration and the cut in development aid by Britain as “adversity in opportunity” for Africa. He emphasised the need for African countries to strengthen their economic resilience and reduce dependence on foreign aid.

In his address titled “Building or Burning Bridges: Economic and Development Cooperation Amid Multi-polarisation,” Mahama acknowledged the changing geopolitical dynamics. He noted that while the U.S. played a central role in shaping the post-World War II global order, its current shift could be disruptive.

In the same vein, Nigeria’s Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), recently told African leaders at the African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to consider foreign aid as a thing of the past.

She urged them to be innovative and look inwards “to uplift the lots of your people instead of looking increasingly for help from where help is drying up.”

These teachable lessons are applicable to all African countries, especially the AES group.

It is within the rights of the AES members as sovereign nations to pursue their common interests both as Sahel States and ECOWAS members, just as similar other groups - Mano River Union, Zone of Prosperity, Conseil de l’Entente (Council of Accord or Understanding), UEMOA and the Chad Basin Authority/Commission.

•Paul Ejime is a Global Affairs Analyst and Consultant on Peace & Security and Governance Communication

Mallam

Super Eagles Hit Gym Ahead First Training in Kigali Today

Duro Ikhazuagbe

To avoid jet lag, the few Super Eagles players who opened the team’s Radisson Blu Hotel camp in Kigali yesterday ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifier against hosts Rwanda on Friday, took to the gym to work out while awaiting the arrival of the bulk of the invited 23 Nigerian pros from Europe.

Amongst the early birds that were involved in the workout were; Galatasaray marksman, Victor Osimhen; Olympiacos of Greece defender, Bruno Onyemaechi; Tolu Arokodare of KRC Genk in the Belgian topflight Jupiler league; former Bendel Insurance safe hands now based in Tanzania, Amas Obasogie and the duo from the NPFL, Remo Stars’ Kayode Bankole and Papa Daniel Mustapha of Niger Tornadoes.

Media Officer of the Super Eagles, Promise Efoghe, confirmed from Kigali that top stars like Simon Moses, Victor Boniface, Raphael Onyedika, Jordan Torunarigha, Stanley Nwabali, Samuel Chukwueze, Bright Osayi -Samuel and Igoh Ogbu are expected to troop into camp this Tuesday for the team to have first full training under the watch of Coach Eric Sekou Chelle in the evening.

The Super Eagles will not have feel of the Amahoro Stadium turf until Thursday evening on the eve of the World Cup qualifier with the Amavubi who are joint leaders of the Group C standing with South Africa and Benin Republic on seven points. Lesotho are fourth on five points while Eagles are fifth on three points. Zimbabwe are at the bottom on two points.

Meanwhile, Rwanda’s Algerian coach, Adel Amrouche, has named a 28-man provisional list of players that will face Nigeria on Friday in

2026 WORLD CUP QUALIFIER

and

however, prune the squad to 23 as the countdown to the encounter with Nigeria continues. Midfielders Hakim Sahabo and

Rafael York are among the returnees to the squad of the new coach.

The duo’s last call up was on June 11, 2024, when Amavubi defeated Lesotho 1-0 in South Africa.

The two players were suspended

from the team by former coach Torsten Spittler due to disciplinary reasons.

Also, back to the squad is attacking midfielder Djabel Imanishimwe who plays for Naft Al Wassat in Iraq.

The former APR captain hasn’t

Victor Osimhen was amongst the early birds in Super Eagles Radisson Blu Hotel Camp in Kigali that took part in the gym workout...yesterday

Boxing to Feature as Olympic Sport for LA 2028

The International Olympic Committee executive board has recommended that boxing be included at the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.

The sport was not part of the initial programme when it was announced in 2022, but last month World Boxing was given provisional recognitionas the sport's international governing body.

The recommendation will still need to be approved by the IOC at this week's session in Greece, but outgoing IOC president Thomas Bach expects it to be given the green light.

"After the provisional recognition of World Boxing in February we were in a position to take this decision," Bach said on Monday.

"This recommendation has to go to the session, but I am very confident they will approve it so that all the boxers of the world then have certainty they can participate in the Olympic Games in LA."

The creation of a new global body was the biggest hurdle to the sport's inclusion in the next Games.

The IOC has run boxing at the past two Olympics after the International Boxing Association (IBA) was suspended as the sport's world governing body in 2019 over governance, finance, refereeing and ethical issues.

The Russian-led IBA was then stripped of its status in June 2023 over a failure to implement reforms.

The IOC was at loggerheads with the IBA during last year's Olympics in Paris over the participation of two boxers, Algeria's Imane Khelif and Taiwan's Lin Yu-ting.

The IBA banned the fighters midway through the 2023 World Championships saying they had failed gender eligibility tests, but the IOC allowed them to compete and both won gold medals in their

Amateur boxers slugging it out in a previous Olympic Games. Now the IOC has accepted that the sport be included in the next Games to hold in Los Angeles in 2028 weight classes.

World Boxing was formed in April 2023 and now has 84 members across five continents, including Great Britain. Last month the IOC said World Boxing met several key criteria for

provisional recognition.

President of World Boxing, Boris van der Vorst, welcomed Monday's announcement.

"This is a very significant and important decision for Olympic

boxing and takes the sport one step closer to being restored to the Olympic programme," he said.

"I have no doubt it will be very positively received by everyone connected with boxing, at every level throughout the world, who understands the critical importance to the future of the sport of boxing continuing to remain a part of the Olympic movement.

"On behalf of everyone at World Boxing I would like to thank the Executive Board of the IOC for the trust they have placed in our organisation and we hope for a positive outcome when the IOC Session meets this week.

"World Boxing understands that being part of the Olympic Games is a privilege and not a right and I assure the IOC that if boxing is restored to the programme for LA28, that World Boxing is completely committed to being a trustworthy and reliable partner that will adhere to and uphold the values of the Olympic Charter."

The IOC has said only athletes whose national federations were members of World Boxing by the time of the start of the qualification events for the 2028 Olympics could take part in Los Angeles.

The Ibrahim Musa Gusau-led NFF administration will add another milestone today when the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of Players’ Hostel and a number of new training pitches holds in Abuja.

The groundbreaking will be done by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas GCON.

Named the NFF-FIFA Players’ Hostel, the 68-room facility is located at the heart of Package B of the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, almost directly opposite the NFF Secretariat. It is a two-wing edifice, with A and B sections, and has a total of 62 single rooms, four suites and two executive suites.

Alongside the hostel is the construction of two new training pitches (one synthetic and one natural grass), re-construction of the existing synthetic pitch, sitting terraces for spectators, two dressing rooms for players (each accommodating 27 players at a time) and two dressing rooms for officials. The spectators’ terraces will have 1,838 seats.

The construction, which is projected to last 24 months, is funded by world football-governing body, FIFA through its FIFA Forward 3.0 programme.

The FIFA Forward is the largest and biggest sport development programme

in the world, and was created in 2016 when FIFA President Gianni Infantino was first elected to office.

The core idea is three-fold: increase the investment into football worldwide; achieve more impact with specific and tailor-made projects and; make sure to have more oversight to ensure that the investment in football development is transparent, carefully-managed and effective.

NFF President, Ibrahim Musa Gusau, said: “The NFF is excited about the Players’ Hostel and new training pitches. It is a transformational project around our national teams and we are grateful to FIFA for providing the funds for these amazing facilities.

“Right from the inception of the present NFF administration, we were very clear on what we wanted to do with our FIFA Forward 3.0 funds. Building a players’ hostel and having new training pitches will not only enhance team management, it will substantially reduce expenditure in these areas and enable us to commit more funds to grassroots development programme.”

FIFA’s Deputy Chief Member Associations Officer and Regional Director (Africa), Gelson Fernandes, said: “The main objective of the Forward Programme is to ensure top-quality infrastructure that drives football development worldwide.

Showtime Flag Football on Sunday, officially kicked off its 2025 season with the highly anticipated Showtime Summer Series, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the league’s evolution.

For the first time, the league will feature two major tournaments in a single year – the Showtime Summer Series and the Showtime Fall Series, further solidifying Showtime Flag as the largest professional coed flag football league.

During a press conference held at Showtime Arena, Meadow Hall School, Lekki, key league executives and officials provided insights into the expanded season, the growing impact of flag football, and what fans and athletes can expect from the upcoming tournament.

“This year is a game-changer for Showtime Flag,” said the competition CEO, Manal Nassar. “By introducing the Showtime Summer Series and Showtime Fall Series, we are giving athletes more opportunities to compete, fans more thrilling action to enjoy, and the sport a bigger platform to grow.”

Larry Izamoje Thumbs up Sportsville Award

Accolades and praises have been pouring in for Osa Sunny Adun, the Founder of the first TV Sports Station in Nigeria, Degue Broadcast Network (DBN).

The latest commendation coming from the Chairman and the Chief Executive Officer of Brila FM, Dr Larry Izamoje, shows the quality and evergreen footprint left behind

by Adun in the media industry!

"I recall my days with Osaro Adun, (O.S.A, as we fondly call him), with nostalgia. It was a memorable time working with one of the finest in the industry, the man who saw tomorrow " begins Dr Izamoje, who later founded the first sports radio station in Nigeria, the Brila 88.9 FM

"Like yesterday, I remember 1991

and 1992, the years of unforgettable employer/employee relationship at the popular Awolowo Road, Ikoyi Lagos. "At DBN, goals were specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time driven (S.M.A R.T)!

"Adun was a great rewarder of effort and hard work as he strategically offered mouth watering rewards after completion of sales or projects.

The series kicks off with scrimmages (friendlies), followed by regular games leading to playoffs, and culminating in the grand finale – the Showtime Bowl Season XII Summer Series.

“We are pushing the boundaries of flag football in Africa,” added League Commissioner, Adebare Adejumo.

“With this expansion, we are doubling the excitement, increasing opportunities for talent, and taking the sport to the next level.”

Head Coach, Mike Akpan emphasized the impact on player development, stating, “This new structure allows athletes to refine their skills in a competitive environment for a longer period, which is crucial as we continue to build Nigeria’s presence in global flag football.”

From an officiating standpoint, Head Referee, Henry Agwagu, highlighted the importance of maintaining high standards of the game: “With more tournaments, our officials will have more opportunities to ensure fairness, accuracy, and consistency in officiating, which is key to a professional league.”

over Adun's Recognition

"He was unique in many ways, especially in moments of staff celebration when he joins in to spice up the occasion.

"That Sportsville is honouring him on April 3rd, is highly commendable, it shows the thinking behind this award. Honestly I am so impressed with what you guys at Sportsville are doing.

"Not many people, especially the

young ones in the sports industry, or even the followers of Sports may know that the seed of sports we are all enjoying today was sown by Osa Adun. "I most enthusiastically congratulate my one time employer, (my Oga for life) for this richly deserved honour. I am

featured for Amavubi since February 6, 2022 when he played in an AFCON qualifier against Mozambique. Other key returnees are goalkeeper Maxime Wenssens who wasn’t

selected during Amavubi’s 2025 AFCON qualifiers as well as APR shot-stopper Pierre Ishimwe who has now cemented his place as APR’s number 1.

Kigali

then Lesotho on Tuesday on the same ground. He will,

Obasanjo to Traditional Rulers TUESDAY

“Today,therearecriminals,drugaddicts,vagabonds,banditsandkidnappersas so-calledtraditionalrulers.Thisisagreatpity,andithasgreatlycontributedtothe problemsofNigeria...atraditionalrulersnatchingaballotboxatanelectionpolling stationandrunningawaywithit?Theclassoftraditionalrulerswiththeirdistinction, honouranddignity,asweknewthem...hasbeendilutedandpolluted”--FormerPresident OlusegunObasanjo,lamentsthemoraldecayamongsometraditionalrulerstoday.

WITH REUBEN ABATI

The Emerging Coalition Against Tinubu/APC

It comes as no surprise that the headlines have been dominated in part by the proposed formation of a mega coalition of opposition parties and politicians planning to unseat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and defeat the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the next general elections in 2027.The whistle was blown last week, and since then there have been more revelations about how most of the would-be members of that coalition are aggrieved members of Tinubu’s own political camp – those who felt left out of the sharing of the spoils of victory after the 2023 elections, members of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), originally, a building bloc of the APC, as well as opposition party members. It is still early in the day to describe the exact shape and character of this proposed coalition in general. What is known for now, is that the emerging group is seeking accommodation in the Social Democratic Party (SDP), possibly a take-over of the party completely, and perhaps, an eventual creation of a new platform as was the case with the emergence of the APC in 2013.

What is also known is that Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, a former two-time Governor of Kaduna State, former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, and one of the original 37 persons that founded the APC, is the arrow-head of the latest political development, even if there are others in the background who are yet to take public ownership of their conspiracy. It is to El-Rufai’s credit that he has by his bold action changed the course of Nigeria’s political narrative ahead of 2027. He has ignited the fire

of speculations and provided a meeting ground for all hidden and open anti-Tinubu conspirators. It looks like a scene out of William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar as the plot thickens against the ruler in Aso Rock. More than anything else, El-Rufai has reaffirmed his persona as a man who has fire and

PAULEJIME GUEST COLUMNIST

salt in his mouth to be deployed as it suits him. With the fire in his mouth, he has done considerable damage already to the reputation of the Tinubu administration. He has also de-marketed the APC. In an interview in the Leadership newspaper, three years ago, Governor Nasir El-Rufai, as he then was, was quoted as saying: “I’ll remain in APC till I die, the moment I leave APC, then I have quit politics altogether.” Now, he no longer wants to die in the APC nor is he retiring from politics. Instead, he has left the party. Nigerian politicians and the promises they make! It is the same APC that El-Rufai promised to serve till death do them part that he has now dismissed as a “useless party.” He has accused the Tinubu administration of having no clue about how to run the country and its economic reforms as useless too. We have heard from El-Rufai also that most of Tinubu’s appointees lack merit and ability, and do not deserve the positions that they have been given. He has also not minced words in saying that some of the Ministers bought their positions in the Cabinet. That certainly is a serious allegation: who is doing buying and selling with Ministerial appointments? How much was paid? To whom? By who? Where is the money kept? El-Rufai cannot make such a weighty allegation and leave it at the level of innuendo. His statement is defamatory per se. The onus is on him to provide evidence. For example, he had made the additional claim that the grand, anti-Tinubu/APC coalition that he is leading has the blessing of President Muhammadu Buhari: “I consulted Buhari on Friday; I told him my reasons for leaving the APC and

the responses of other people I consulted. Buhari responded that he is now a statesman, but he knows my worries and prayed for me.” It didn’t take too long before President Buhari issued a statement to restate his loyalty to the APC and his commitment to continue to popularize the party that gave him an opportunity to be President of Nigeria for two terms (2015 – 2023). There is a touch of irony to it all, and perhaps poetic justice. A month ago, February 16, 2025, President Tinubu had publicly congratulated Mallam Nasir El-Rufai on the occasion of his 65th birthday, describing him as an “administrator, scholar, politician…highly regarded for his resourcefulness and brilliance… his endeavours for democracy; his meritorious service to the nation, and mentorship of the younger generation”. One month later, El-Rufai told the BBC Hausa Service: “We knew about Tinubu’s Chicago issues and still supported him; yet he failed Nigeria”. He was speaking to the Hausa listeners of the BBC, and by extension the entire North and Nigeria. President Tinubu got more than five million of his over eight million votes in the 2023 Presidential election from Northern Nigeria. Apparently, El-Rufai and his co-conspirators are determined to discredit him and expose whatever they know, or at best sow the seeds of doubt in the Tinubu Presidency. By mentioning Buhari’s name, he sought to incite the former President’s power base against Tinubu.

Continued on page 38

Niger’s Crippling Fuel Crisis: A Warning to AES Countries

The crippling fuel shortages in Niger and the change in thinking towards development aid by the developed World are clear warnings to Africa on the urgent need to deepen regional integration, and more so for the self-proclaimed Alliance of Sahel States, AES countries, making a public show of quitting the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) at all costs. Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso have effectively formalised their withdrawal from ECOWAS, having served notice to quit the regional economic bloc in January 2024, but the organisation in a demonstration of good faith, has allowed them a nine-month grace period until September 2025 to rejoin if they change their mind.

Last December, the Niger junta leader Abdourahamane Tchiani without any proof, went on his country’s state television to accuse Nigeria of attempts to destabilise Niger. Niger’s Foreign Minister, Bakary Yaou Sangare had also alleged that Nigerian government was complicit in a purported December 13 sabotage of the Niger-Benin oil pipeline in Gaya. The Niger government summoned Nigeria’s Charge d’affaires in Niamey to complain.

Nigeria dismissed all the allegations as unfounded, while the ECOWAS Commission issued a public statement in defence of Nigeria.

As it turned out, and as Nigeria stated then,

to divert attention from the mounting governance problems they faced.

Nigeria has no reason to destabilise its smaller neighbour, which it continues to support materially and otherwise, including in infrastructure development such as road construction, rail projects, and fuel supply at concessionary rates.

Three months on, reality has now dawned on the Tchiani-led junta. Niger has been facing unprecedented severe fuel shortages for several weeks, characterised by winding queues at the few filling stations with supply and the stifling economic activities across the land-locked country, listed by the United Nations Development Report as among the poorest in the World.

With nowhere else to go, the once arrogant Niamey junta turned to Nigeria for a bailout, but this time, without the usual publicity.

According to industry sources in Niamey and Abuja, the situation was so desperate that the Tchiani-led junta swallowed its pride and allowed a delegation led by the Chief Executive of the Niger Petroleum Company, SONIDEP to visit Abuja on an S.O.S. mission.

Following a meeting with Nigerian petroleum industry officials, which was largely unannounced “some 300 fuel trucks were approved for immediate delivery across the border to Niger,” according to the sources. The terms or details of the agreement

The main reaction from the Tinubu camp and the APC has been to wave off the threat as were not available.

Industry officials in Niger blamed the severe fuel shortages on the confrontation between the junta government in Niamey and the Chinese oil companies, which have long dominated Niger’s petroleum sector.

The China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) was said to have granted the Niger government an advance of about US$400 million in 2024, using future crude oil deliveries as collateral to help Niger cope with the lingering effects of the sanctions earlier imposed by ECOWAS following the July 2023 military coup that brought the Tchiani regime to power - the sanctions have since been lifted.

When it was time for Niger to repay the Chinese, the cash-strapped junta government was alleged to have attempted to arm-twist China, forcing the Asian country to slap billions of dollars in tax demand on the Niger Refinery Company.

The escalated crisis culminated in the expulsion of three Chinese officials working in the Niger oil sector last week. Official sources in Niamey said the move was the latest by the military government to “assert greater control over national resources.”

In a separate development, Niger’s Ministry of Tourism is reported to have revoked the licence of a Chinese-operated hotel in Niamey, citing alleged

Continued on page 38

Tchiani was only using the playbook of the AES junta leaders - using propaganda and disinformation

President Bola Tinubu Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri

TRUTH & REASON MISSILE