THURSDAY 22ND MAY 2025

After $5bn Bonga North, Shell to Take Bonga Southwest FID

Local content opportunities swell TotalEnergies’ optimistic about Ntokon FID, rallies FG, agencies

Dike Onwuamaeze The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) and the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) yesterday lamented the continued decision of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to maintain the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) at 27.5 per cent since November 2024, despite a global wave of interest rate reductions aimed at revitalising economic productivity and combating stagflation. Specifically, the LCCI stressed that the current MPR level was prohibitively high for private sector development. Likewise, NECA expressed concern over the CBN’s continued reliance on monetary policy tightening.

The MPC at the end of its meeting on Tuesday decided to keep all its monetary policy tools unchanged.

Speaking during an interview on News Central TV, a Nigerian media company, Zulum decried the bureaucratic bottlenecks currently bedevilling the procurement of military equipment, and urged

Emmanuel Addeh and Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

AT WORLD EDUCATION FORUM SUMMIT IN LONDON...

ECOWAS, EU, Germany Collaborate to Combat Cybercrime Threats in West Africa

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the German Federal Foreign Office and the European Union, have convened a high-level briefing and workshop on Cyber Diplomacy for the ECOWAS Permanent Representatives Committee (PRC) to combat the growing threat of cybercrime in Nigeria and other West African countries.

According to a statement yesterday, by the German Embassy, “On 20 May 2025, the ECOWAS Commission in partnership with the German Federal Foreign Office and the European Union, under the Joint Platform for Advancing Cyber Security, hosted a High-Level Briefing and Workshop on Cyber Diplomacy for the ECOWAS Permanent Representatives Committee (PRC) in Abuja, Nigeria.”

The statement further read that: “As cyber threats grow in complexity and scale, particularly in a rapidly digitalising West Africa, strengthening cyber-security and international cooperation has become imperative to safeguard sustainable development and foster regional cyber resilience.

“Against this backdrop, the workshop aimed to enhance awareness of cybersecurity as a strategic foreign policy issue and foster regional dialogue on cyber diplomacy.”

The statement revealed that: “The event forms part of the ECOWAS-Germany-EU initiative on advancing cybersecurity. It

seeks to implement the ECOWAS Cybersecurity Action Plan developed jointly under Germany’s G7 Presidency with a focus on building cyber diplomacy skills, advancing confidence-building measures (CBMs), and strengthening critical infrastructure across the region.”

The German Ambassador to Nigeria, Annett Günther opened the event on behalf of the German Embassy.

In her remarks, she emphasised: “In an era where cyber threats know no borders, diplomacy is key to defend our shared values

of security, trust, and cooperation in cyberspace. “Cyber-diplomacy promotes cross-border cooperation and represents a crucial stride towards fostering a more secure and interconnected cyberspace –globally, and particularly here in West Africa.”

ECOWAS Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy and Digitalisation, Mr. Sédiko Douka, and Chair of the ECOWAS PRC, Amb. Musa Nuhu, also addressed the gathering, underscoring the strategic value of digital resilience and multilateral engagement.

The workshop marked another milestone in the ongoing implementation of the ECOWAS Cybersecurity Agenda and reaffirmed the commitment of all partners to strengthening regional security, trust, and sustainable digital transformation.

IsDB Launches Platform to Connect Nigeria, Others to Innovative Digital Tool

The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) has launched its innovative Matchmaking Platform for the SouthSouth Cooperation (SSC) under the spirit and theme of ‘From the South to the South, and by the South.’

The platform for member-countries of the IsDB, including Nigeria was launched during a high-level event held in Algiers, the Algerian capital, as part of the 2025 IsDB Group Annual Meetings.

The platform offers membercountries (Nigeria and others) seamless access to over 300 on-boarded Resource Centres across 11 thematic areas, showcasing a proven track record of technical expertise, development cooperation, and innovation. It also allows new institutions and resource centres to join the ecosystem and ensures real-time feedback and knowledge sharing.

Senior representatives from IsDB management, Member Country

delegations, including Nigeria, and development partners participated actively in the matchmaking process.

The ceremony featured opening remarks by the IsDB’s Director-General for Global Practices and Partnerships, Dr. Issa Faye, as well as the IsDB’s Director of the Cooperation & Capacity Development Department, Mrs. May Ali Babiker, followed by a live demonstration of the platform and reflections from Algerian government officials, including the Mr. Abdelkrim Bouzred, Ministry of Finance (IsDB Governor Office) and Mr. Abed Hallouz, the Director General of the Algerian Agency for International Cooperation, recognising Algeria’s growing strategic role in the SSC ecosystem and future contribution to this platform.

In his keynote address, Faye stated that the platform was more than just a digital tool.

According to him, “It is a manifestation of our commitment to institutionalising a scalable

Tinubu Celebrates Two British-Nigerian Mayors, Bright, Jackson, Upon Inauguration in London

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu yesterday rejoiced with two British Nigerians, Opeyemi Bright and Jason Jackson, on their historic election and inauguration as Mayors in London. The President, in a statement by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, commended Bright and Jackson for sustaining the legacy of good works by Nigerians in the diaspora and consistently promoting the values of honesty, integrity, hard work, and commitment to the well-being of others. According to Tinubu, their stories would inspire countless

young people—both at home and in the diaspora—to pursue excellence and serve their communities with distinction.

“On behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, I extend heartfelt congratulations to Mayors Opeyemi Bright and Jason Jackson. I urge you to continue giving your best in your new roles as the first citizens of Barking and Dagenham, and Islington.

“I have every confidence in your abilities and look forward to the positive impact you will make in your respective boroughs,” the President further stated.

Bright was sworn in as the Civic

Mayor of Barking and Dagenham, making history as the borough’s youngest-ever mayor at just 29, following seven years of outstanding service to her community.

Also, Jackson has also become the first Nigerian-born Mayor of Islington since the borough’s establishment in 1900, following a rapid rise through local government as a councillor and committee chair.

Before becoming Mayor, Bright was the borough’s youngest Labour councillor at 22, a feat achieved in 2018. Jackson was first elected as a councillor in 2022 and became Chair of Islington’s Homes and Communities Committee in 2023.

Reverse Linkage model built for our Member Countries and a gateway for sustainable and inclusive cooperation, enabling seekers and providers of expertise to connect, collaborate, and co-create impactful solutions.”

He disclosed that the IsDB Matchmaking Platform was developed under the Roadmap for Scaling Up the Reverse Linkage Mechanism and brought to life by the IsDB’s Reverse Linkage Division.

“It directly responds to the requests of the IsDB’s Governors and is a key outcome of the Riyadh Declaration at 50, adopted during the IsDB’s Golden Jubilee in 2024. This declaration reaffirmed South-South Cooperation as a central pillar of the IsDB’s future direction,” he added.

A highlight of the event included unveiling the mapping of the Algerian

Resource Centres, conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance and the Algerian Agency for International Cooperation.

With over 35 Algerian institutions soon to be fully integrated into the platform, Algeria is positioned to emerge as a prominent provider and partner within this platform.

The official launch of the platform’s digital portal by the IsDB team, including the interaction from member countries which symbolises a new chapter in the IsDB’s SSC journey, underscoring the enthusiasm and readiness of stakeholders to engage with the platform.

The IsDB Matchmaking Platform is now live and accessible. It provides users with intuitive tools to search, connect, and initiate collaboration with institutions across the IsDB network.

Meanwhile, at the inauguration of the connecting tool, the leaders of the IsDB lauded Algeria as a country that embodies, as always, “the spirit of brotherhood and hospitality and opened its heart before its doors for the third time, becoming the first member country, other than the headquarters country, to host the Annual Meetings three times since the establishment of the bank, reflecting the country’s firm belief in the value of this well-established institution and the nobility of its mission.

“Since its inception, the IsDB Group has been supporting Algeria’s development efforts through various financing and development activities, totalling about $3 billion, which reflects the depth of our partnership and the strength of cooperation ties.”

Access Bank Named Nigeria’s Most Valuable Brand for 4th Consecutive Year

Nume Ekeghe

Access Bank Plc has once again clinched the title of Nigeria’s most valuable brand, marking the fourth consecutive year the financial institution has topped the “Nigeria 25” rankings by Brand Finance, the global leader in brand valuation.

According to a statement, the 2025 edition of the report reaffirmed Access Bank’s dominance in the brand space and reflects its continued strength in innovation, customer engagement, and regional expansion. The bank’s consistent performance in brand equity is credited to its deliberate focus on digital transformation, inclusive banking, and strategic positioning within Nigeria’s evolving financial landscape.

According to Brand Finance, banking brands now account for 59 per cent of the total brand value among

Nigeria’s top 25, up from previous years. The sector’s growing influence is evident in the latest rankings, where financial institutions have overtaken other industries to dominate the top tier — a trend that highlights the sector’s resilience, adaptability, and central role in Nigeria’s economic progress.

The Nigeria 25 2025 ranking also highlights considerable shifts in the country’s strongest brands, with banking brands rising through the ranks to dominate the top 10.

This demonstrates a growing recognition of the sector’s resilience and adaptability, particularly as financial services play an increasingly crucial role in driving Nigeria’s economy forward.

Managing Director, Brand Finance Nigeria, Babatunde Odumeru, in a statement added: “Nigerian banking brands continue to grow, successfully

navigating a challenging economic landscape with strategic agility while also maintaining customer loyalty.”

Commenting on the ranking, Managing Director/CEO of Access Bank, Roosevelt Ogbonna, said: “This recognition as Nigeria’s most valuable brand for the fourth year running is a testament to the strength of our people, our customers’ trust, and the strategic clarity that drives everything we do.

“At Access Bank, we remain committed to delivering value through innovation, financial inclusion, and impactful partnerships across Africa and beyond.”

Also speaking on the milestone, Acting Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc, Bolaji Agbede, stated: “Access Bank’s brand leadership reflects the Group’s long-term vision of becoming the world’s most respected African financial institution.

Sunday Okobi in Algiers

L-R: Country Director, British Council in Nigeria, Donna McGowan; Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri; and Nigeria’s Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, at the World Education Forum Summit in London, yesterday

INAUGURATION OF PDP SOUTH WEST ZONAL EXECUTIVE...

L-R: Ogun State PDP governorship candidate in the last election, Hon Ladi Adebutu; Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke; Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde; and PDP South West Zonal Chairman, Hon Kamorudeen Ajisafe, during the inauguration of the PDP South West Zonal Executive held at the Zonal Headquarters, Adagunodo House, Ibadan

FG to Unveil Reconstructed N156bn Eleme-

Onne Section of East-West Road in December

The Minister of Works, Dr. David Umahi, yesterday, assured Nigerians that the reconstruction of the 15km section of the East-West Road (Section IIIA) from Port Harcourt (Eleme Junction) to Onne Junction in Rivers State would be completed and commissioned in December.

The Minister gave the assurance when he inspected the N156 billion project currently handled by Reynolds Construction Company (Nigeria) Limited. The project which is within the economic corridor of Nigeria, leading to the petrochemical, refinery, Onne wharf and a lot of other companies, both international and local has

suffered years of dilapidation.

The stretch of the road has also witnessed a series of protests from the indigenes and other users, after many persons died in an accident resulting from the bad state of the road.

The former President Muhammad Buhari had commissioned the projects before he exited office and

said the execution would be done by the current administration led by President Bola Tinubu.

During his inspection of the road project yesterday, Umahi expressed satisfaction with the quality of work being done by the contractor on the first carriage way. He stated that he has directed the contractor to conclude with car-

House Urges FG to Declare State of Emergency on FCT Healthcare System

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The House of Representatives has urged the federal government to declare a state of emergency in the healthcare system of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

It also urged the federal government to design a long-term healthcare infrastructure development plan that aligns with the growing population of the FCT, ensuring sustainable and quality healthcare delivery.

It added that the federal government must also ensure that emergency funds are released for the upgrade of hospitals, recruitment of medical personnel, and acquisition of critical medical equipment.

The resolutions of the House followed the adoption of a motion sponsored at plenary yesterday, by Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi.

Presenting the motion, the

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The Managing Director, Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Oluwaseun Faleye, has said the Fund will be partnering the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), in training and retraining of the workforce in the area of digital literacy and proficiency. He said technology, digital skills and literacy are critical tools to boost service delivery in the operations of the fund and other government agencies.

A statement signed by the Deputy General Manager and Head Corporate Affairs, NSITF, Alexandra Mede, said the MD assured the NSITF is committed to specialized training and continuous training of its workers to ensure effective service delivery. It said the partnership deal was

lawmaker decried the alarming strain on the healthcare system in the FCT, with government hospitals and medical facilities being severely overstretched, resulting in a critical shortage of bed spaces and medical personnel.

Ezechi explained that the population of the FCT has surged significantly over the past two decades, while many of the existing government hospitals were constructed several years ago, with little or no expansion to match the growing demand for healthcare services.

The lawmaker stressed that patients in need of critical medical attention are often left unattended or subjected to long waiting hours due to the unavailability of hospital beds and limited capacity of existing facilities, leading to preventable loss of lives daily.

Ezechi noted that the lack of

sufficient medical personnel, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers, further exacerbates the crisis, reducing the quality of care and increasing the burden on the few available staff.

Exechi expressed concern that if immediate interventions were not made, the healthcare crisis might escalate to unmanageable levels, undermining the right to health and threatening the well-being of residents in the nation’s capital.

He, however, expressed optimism that a strategic review and upgrade of health infrastructure in the FCT, along with a comprehensive recruitment drive for medical professionals, would address the urgent needs and ensure better health outcomes.

The Green, therefore, Chamber called on the Federal Ministry of Health and the FCT Administration to immediately assess the state of health facilities in the nation’s capital

with the aim of identifying critical areas for expansion, upgrade, and resource allocation.

The House resolved to constitute an ad-hoc committee to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the current state of healthcare facilities in the FCT and submit a report within four weeks with recommendations for improvement.

The House called on the, “federal government to declare a state of emergency in the healthcare system of the FCT, ensuring that emergency funds are released for the upgrade of hospitals, recruitment of medical personnel, and acquisition of critical medical equipment.”

It further stressed the need to “encourage the FCT Administration to partner with private sector stakeholders and international health agencies to boost capacity in the short term while long-term solutions are being implemented.”

riageway ahead of its commissioning at the end of this month.

Expressing the President’s commitment to ensuring all ongoing construction roads in the State and its environs are completed within a stipulated period, the Minister said the project’s quality durability would last over 50-100 years without maintenance.

He added: “I decided to pay a visit here, and this is about my ninth visit on this project because of how important this project is to Mr. President.

“This project is within a very serious economic corridor of Nigeria. We have a lot of facilities here, including Indorama, the refinery, and a lot of other companies. So, this is very important, and I am very happy with the quality of work being done.

“We have directed the contractor to wrap up this carriageway because it’s selected for commissioning in the next ten days, and they have to do it day and night, and I am very confident that they will achieve it”.

Commending Tinubu for his courage in the development of the country, especially constructing roads across States in the country, he said, “Before, Nigeria was building roads but today, the President is constructing roads.”

Speaking further on the road, Umahi explained: “I know that there are some sections that we earmarked for flyovers and bridges. I have directed them to use asphalt to complete that until when dry season comes and we can re-engage on the flyover. And that has been isolated as a separate item of the

work.

“By June 1, 2025, they will go back to Onne to continue with the Port Harcourt-bound doing exactly what they have done on the Eket bound.

“The total value of the project is N156 billion and it is 30 kilometers by four lanes. It has solar lights, we are going to install CCTV, I am going to put tolling points and relief parks so that people don’t park on the road again. It’s going to be a beauty on earth when we finish.

“By December, the entire stretch of the road will be completed. So, Mr. President can elect to commission this carriage way now, as we are doing in all our projects within the six geopolitical zones.”

“The ones we have completed substantially, we commission or he’s left to say let the second carriage way be totally completed and in December, we can have an elaborate ceremony”, Umahi added.

Earlier, the Federal Controller of Works in charge of Rivers State, Enwereama Tarilade, revealed that what was left for the near-completed carriageway was 60 metres, assuring that it would be completed in 10 days from inspection day.

She stressed: “We made a promise some time ago that this section of the road, this carriageway, would be completed and open up to the public, and that has been fulfilled.

“What is left here is about 60 metres and in two days’ time, this place will be opened to the public. This is 15.25mtrs and is wide enough for ongoing and outgoing traffic to use while we move over to the other carriageway.”

reached when Chief Executive Officer of DBI, David Daser, paid a courtesy visit to NSITF boss in Abuja on Wednesday. Faleye pointed out the fund is embracing and employing every measure to deepen inhouse capacity, and work with any organization that would help achieve this purpose.

The statement said Faleye has approved the partnership with the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), and directed that a mini-committee be put in place to work out all modalities for the training and retraining of the NSITF workforce in the area of digital literacy and proficiency. He also said the certification from the institute would be very helpful to NSITF and other agencies of government and workers across all sectors.

The DBI President in his speech earlier said the institute is geographically spread across the country to cater for an institution like the NISTF with workers spread across the country.

Daser said: “We have partners we can actually leverage in case we have to do something in the South-South, and other geopolitical zones of the country. So why we are here is to seek a collaboration, to help you achieve your vision for NSITF. We want to serve as a friend, partner in progress for you here.

“While we help you in training your staff in IT, we will also, if it’s possible, include that certification into the career progression of staff of NSITF. So, we are here as friends and partners, as fellow government organizations”.

Wale Igbintade

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) yesterday rearraigned Petro Union Oil & Gas Company Limited and three of its directors before Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke of the Federal High Court in Lagos over an alleged £2.556 billion fraud.

The defendants were brought before the court on a 13-count amended charge bordering on conspiracy, forgery, and attempted fraud involving a purported Barclays Bank cheque.

EFCC’s counsel, Mr. Rotimi Jacobs (SAN), informed the court of a newly amended charge and requested that it be read to the defendants to enable them to take their pleas. All defendants pleaded not guilty.

Following their pleas, the defence

counsel urged the court to allow the defendants to continue on the existing bail terms, a request that was granted by Justice Aneke.

The case was adjourned to June 26 and 27, 2025, for trial. The defendants are: Petro Union Oil & Gas Company Limited, Kingsley Okpala, Chidi Okpalaeze, and Emmanuel Okpalaeze.

The amended charge alleged that the defendants, along with one Princess Gladys Okpalaeze (currently at large), fraudulently procured and presented a Barclays Bank cheque dated December 29, 1994, in the sum of £2.556 billion, purportedly intended for investment in refinery and petrochemical infrastructure in Nigeria.

According to the EFCC, the defendants presented the cheque to

Union Bank Plc and other financial institutions, knowing it had been unlawfully obtained. The charges also allege forgery and the use of falsified documents, including forged Central Bank of Nigeria statements of account and Corporate Affairs Commission filings made in the name of a deceased person. The EFCC further claimed that between 2006 and 2020, the defendants attempted to use the forged instruments to unlawfully obtain the funds from Union Bank. The prosecution stated that the alleged offences violate provisions of the Miscellaneous Offences Act, the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006, and the Criminal Code Act—all of which carry severe penalties upon conviction.

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

INAUGURATION OF THE NEW BOARD OF AMCON...

L-R: Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Mrs. Lydia Shehu

Minister of the Economy, Mr. Olawale Edun; Chairman, Board of Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), Dr. Bala Mohammed Bello; and Managing Director/CEO of AMCON, Mr. Gbenga Alade, at the inauguration of the new AMCON Board at the Ministry of Finance, Abuja, yesterday

Afreximbank Grew Assets

James Emejo in Abuja African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) yesterday announced that its on and off- balance sheet assets increased to $42.7 billion at the end of the first quarter of the year (Q1 2025).

While on-balance sheet assets grew by 4.85 per cent to $37 billion, driven primarily by a 58 per cent surge in cash balances, off-balance sheet assets, including letters of credit and guarantee volumes, also increased by a 19 per cent to $5.7 billion.

According to the bank’s consolidated financial statements and its subsidiaries, for the first quarter of the year (Q1 2025), net loans and advances closed at $27.8 billion, down from the 2024 closing position, reflecting early repayments from certain customers on account of improved foreign currency balances position of some sovereign borrowers.

Loan Asset Quality remained strong, with the Non-Performing Loans (NPL) ratio at 2.44 per cent, a modest increase from 2.33 per cent in 2024 – and well below the bank’s strategic NPL ceiling of four per cent. The bank said net interest income grew by 4.53 per cent to $411.2 million compared to prior year, driven by growth in interest earning assets, complemented by effective management of borrowing costs, helping the bank to cushion the

marginal decline in total interest income due to softening benchmark rates.

Similarly, fee income from guarantees and letters of credit increased by 47 per cent and 36 per cent, respectively, partially offsetting lower advisory fees to contribute to total unfunded income of $26.9 million in Q1. While this represented a 7.41 per cent decrease from $29 million in Q1 2024, the strong performance in off-balance sheet assets was in line with the bank’s strategy to grow unfunded business.

Group’s total assets and contingent liabilities increased by 6.4 per cent to $42.7 billion, up from $40.1 billion in 2024.

Reacting to the performance in a statement, Afreximbank’s Senior Executive Vice President, Mr. Denys Denya, said, “Our QI 2025 results, which were in line with expectations, reflected a strong and resilient financial performance, notwithstanding continued macroeconomic challenges.

“With solid profitability growth, a strengthened liquidity position, and a well-capitalised balance sheet, the group is firmly positioned to continue playing a pivotal role in advancing the aspirations of Africa and the Caribbean for economic transformation and sustainable development.”

The group posted strong net income of $215 million, a 21 per cent increase year-on-year from

$178 million in the prior period.

However, driven by inflationary pressures and growing personnel costs, operating expenses rose by 23 per cent to $75.4 million.

The Afreximbank group maintained a healthy Cost-to-Income Ratio of 16 per cent below its strategic range of 17-30 per cent.

The bank’s liquidity profile strengthened considerably, with liquid assets now comprising 20 per cent of total assets, up from 13 per cent at the close of 2024.

$42.7bn

$27.8bn in Q1

The higher liquidity position was as a result of successful fund-raising, coupled with loan repayments received during the quarter.

Shareholders’ funds increased by 3.4 per cent to $7.5 billion, driven by strong internally generated capital of $215.4 million in addition to new equity investments under the second General Capital Increase (GCI II) programme.

The performance provides a springboard for the bank to continue playing its pivotal role of

advancing the aspirations of Africa and the Caribbean for economic transformation and sustainable development in the months and years ahead.

In line with the bank’s strategic objective of driving Industrialisation and export development, the bank and the government of Kenya ratified a number of initiatives designed to support the development of Industrial Parks (IPs) and Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Kenya under the $3 billion Kenya

country programme. These projects, which included Dongo Kundu Industrial Park in Mombasa and Naivasha SEZ II in Mai Mahiu, are key components of Kenya’s Vision 2030 plan to boost export manufacturing and industrialisation. Afreximbank’s support for these initiatives will specifically enhance infrastructure development, attract investment, and strategically position Kenya as a key hub for African and global commerce.

Bagudu Seeks Improved Citizens Participation in Budgetary Processes

James Emejo in Abuja

Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, yesterday, urged civil society organisations (CSOs) and other development partners to raise citizens’ awareness on the importance of participating in the government’s budgetary processes to promote transparency, accountability, and a deeper understanding of governance.

Bagudu gave the charge when members of Open Government Partnership (OGP) Global Support Unit, led by its lead person,

AFRIMA to Train 1.2m Young Africans in 5 Years

Commences global touring in 2026

As part of its commitment to one of its seven core pillars, the All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA, is set to launch the AFRIMA Kreative Academy, TAKA.

TAKA is a project designed to reshape Africa’s creative sector through education, skills development, and job creation to empower 1.2 million young Africans over the next five years with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed in the fast-growing global music industry.

Themed ‘Learn and Prosper’, the program is designed to equip and empower young Africans between the ages of 18 and 35, with a special focus on underserved and vulnerable communities across the continent.

AFRIMA Founder and Executive Producer, Mike Dada, said with over two decades of experience in the creative industry, the awards platform is launching this academy to address the urgent need for skilled professionals in Africa’s growing music scene.

He added that despite the continent’s talent, there is still a major gap in structured training and access to opportunities.

Dada, who announced the initiative during the 2025 AFRIMA Music Conference, Calendar and Host City Unveiling event hosted by the African Union Commission (AUC) at its headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, last Tuesday, said TAKA will provide world-class training in

key areas of the music ecosystem and value chain.

This will comprise but not limited to music production, music business and entrepreneurship, event technical production, digital technology and the Internet of Things (IoT).

He said the academy will operate three training cycles each year, with each cycle running for four months over five years.

To ensure the highest quality of training, he added that AFRIMA will bring together some of the best minds in the industry including top music producers, successful artists, expert sound engineers, and experienced event professionals from both Africa and the diaspora.

Ms Maureen Karuki, paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja.

Bagudu, who is the incoming OGP State Actors Co-chair, said President Bola Tinubu remained committed to promoting transparency, evident through bold reforms, including the HOPE Initiative on Governance, Education, and Health.

He listed other reforms to include the foreign exchange market reforms, fuel subsidy adjustments, taxation processes to establish a simplified and updated tax system for easier compliance, and digitisation of revenue collection.

The minister said the consumer credit scheme will provide an opportunity for spreading payments on houses for private and public servants, alongside agricultural projects and manufacturing sector reforms.

He explained that in a constitutional federal system like Nigeria, democracy, particularly concerning the preparation of the budget, placed significant demand on the legislative body, along with the additional challenge of prioritising projects for their constituencies.

He said, “The citizens could be judgmental when there is no clear understanding of why specific projects are placed at various locations during budget preparation.”

Bagudu said it was crucial for OGP and other development partners to assist the country in informing citizens, through educated narratives, to ensure a better understanding of the government, its structures, and other nations willing to make difficult decisions to achieve a higher revenue-to-GDP ratio.

In a statement issued by the ministry’s Director of Information and Public Relations, Julie OsagieJacobs, Bagudu further stated that advocacy could encourage citizens to emphasise quality requests through their representatives to ensure their needs were prioritised in the budget. The minister emphasised, “These are areas that can help to boost citizen participation in governance.” Earlier, Kariuki announced that OGP was at its best when led and coordinated by the ministry. She also stated that the visit aimed to seek the political will and leadership that the ministry could contribute to OGP, given that OGP experienced a significant leap when its office was situated within the ministry. She said they also aimed to collaborate in enhancing budget transparency.

Risk Managers Seek Collaboration with NEMA on Disaster Management

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Governing Council of the Chartered Risk Management Institute of Nigeria (CRMI), has called for the deepening of the collaboration between the organisation and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

To this end, the President of CRMI, Prof. Ezekiel Oseni, alongside his team, paid a visit to the headquarters of NEMA in Abuja. The delegation was received by the Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, a

statement by the Head, NEMA Press Unit, Manzo Ezekiel, stated. Speaking on the purpose of the visit, Oseni stated that it was aimed at fostering strategic partnership between NEMA and the institute to advance risk management and disaster preparedness across Nigeria. He extended an invitation for NEMA to be represented on the Governing Council of CRMI, emphasising that such collaboration would enhance the institute’s impact in the area of disaster management for the benefit of Nigerians.

Responding, the Director General of NEMA, Umar, commended CRMI for its efforts in promoting a culture of risk reduction. She reaffirmed NEMA’s commitment to disaster risk reduction, noting that proactive risk management is essential for mitigating disasters. The DG of NEMA appreciated the opportunity given for the agency to be represented on the CRMI governing council and confirmed acceptance of the offer, signaling the agency’s readiness to strengthen its engagement with CRMI.

Jafia; Minister of state for Finance, Mrs. Doris Nkiruka Uzoka-Anite; Minister of Finance and Coordinating

CBN Proposes AI-driven AML Compliance Across Financial Institutions

Nume Ekeghe

In a bold move to enhance the resilience and transparency of Nigeria’s financial system, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has released a draft Baseline Standard for Automated Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (CFT) Solutions.

The initiative is geared towards leveraging technology to deepen real-time surveillance and compliance across financial institutions.

The apex bank is calling for stakeholders’ feedback on the proposed standards, which are aimed at aligning Nigeria’s financial integrity framework with global best practices.

Director of Banking Supervision, Dr. Olubukola Akinwunmi, in explaining the rationale for the draft posted on its website yesterday, noted

27.5% mpr

The manufacturers’ association expressed its view in a statement titled, “MAN Calls for Urgent Interest Rate Cut to Protect Nigeria’s Industrial Base,” signed by the Director General of MAN, Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir.

Ajayi-Kadir said the CBN was given to seeking to attract speculative foreign portfolio investors at the expense of Nigeria’s manufacturing base, which is now choked by unsustainable borrowing costs.

MAN stated that the rigid stance of the MPC has continued to create unintended consequences that might deepen the parlous performance of the productive sector and earnestly, “beseech the CBN to urgently recon-

that the high level of digitalisation in Nigeria’s financial landscape now necessitated a robust and automated compliance framework. He added that the draft standard was expected to promote operational efficiency and strengthen adherence to AML/CFT regulations by regulated institutions.

It added: “In recognition of the high level of digitalisation within the financial system and rapid emergence of innovative products, the CBN has developed a draft document titled, “Baseline Standards for Automated Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Solutions.

“The Standard is aimed at promoting operational efficiency and regulatory compliance to AML/ CFT/CPF requirements by financial institutions in Nigeria.

“This standard is informed by a

sider its monetary stance.” He said: “A nation cannot industrialise on the back of prohibitively expensive credit. With the benchmark interest rate held at 27.5 per cent, Nigeria has become the 6th most expensive country to source credit as local manufacturers grapple with an average lending rate of over 37 percent.

“This policy posture is not only inflationary, but is suffocating the capacity of the manufacturing sector.

“Compounded by other limiting factors, our members—small, medium and even large-scale—are finding it increasingly difficult to stay afloat, expand production lines, or even

comprehensive assessment of existing solutions within the industry. It aligns with global best practices and international regulatory frameworks, including the recommendations of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).”

According to the draft, automated AML systems are expected to feature real-time monitoring, politically exposed person (PEP) identification, sanction screening, risk profiling, transaction analysis, and compliance reporting. The systems must also support case management and trend analysis through a centralised dashboard interface.

One of the key innovations is the inclusion of AI-powered fuzzy matching algorithms to identify name variations and detect potential matches across domestic and global watch lists. The draft also mandates that institutions periodically conduct

meet basic operational costs.”

Ajayi-Kadir argued that domestic production would fall with highlypriced credit, which he said could constrain the country to “imports poverty” by relying on extensive importation of manufactured goods.

He added: “Our concerns go beyond the debilitating impact on our numbers business. The ‘Nigeria First Policy,’ which seeks to strengthen local industry and reduce import dependence, may be under severe threat.

“At the heart of its successful implementation lies access to affordable financing to boost capacity utilisation. Unfortunately, the current

stress testing and set clear thresholds for false positives to improve system accuracy and reduce compliance friction.

“The AML solution shall have AI/ML capabilities for anomaly detection, behavioural pattern recognition, automated risk scoring, and adaptive learning to recommend improvements based on insights from flagged alerts and resolution outcomes,” the document states.

In a further step to deter illicit flows, the CBN noted that the system must generate real-time alerts for high-risk activities including excessive cash deposits, cross-border transactions, and crypto-related activities. Institutions are expected to screen and act on such alerts within a defined timeline.

To support comprehensive customer due diligence, financial

interest rate regime constrains finance costs for our members, surging by over 44 percent from ₦1.43 trillion in 2023 to ₦2.06 trillion in 2024 and rising.

“This represents a sharp increase that has directly depressed productivity and led to underutilisation of industrial capacity.”

The director general of MAN noted that high cost of credit has not only diminished the flow of investments into the manufacturing sector but has also dulled the return on existing investments, with Small and Medium Industries hit the hardest.

He added that confidence in the industrial outlook has waned, as evi-

Zulum T o T I nubu: To En D In SE cur ITY, lISTE n T o mI l ITA r Y, n o T S Y cop HA n TS

the unnecessarily tedious processes.

Zulum boasted that the government could end the scourge of terrorism in six months if it was able to remove contractocracy, a situation where the anti-terrorism system benefited principally the interests of contractors rather than broader national interests.

The governor lamented that contractocracy was fuelling insurgency in the country.

The senate also called on the military authorities to intensify the antiterrorism fight, following a fresh wave of Boko Haram attacks that had left dozens dead, entire communities destroyed, and thousands displaced across the North-east states of Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe.

During the interview, Zulum revealed that over 80,000 persons had recently been displaced from Marte Local Government Area alone by the insurgents. He said the state government was complementing the efforts of the armed forces, with the deployment of over 1,000 civilian joint task force and vigilance group members.

He stated, “My plea is that, let us deal with this matter decisively. The president of Nigeria should listen to those that can distinguish their right and from left. Those that can tell him the right thing and not sycophants. He has a large heart to do the right thing. But he needs to understand what is happening on the ground.

“A few days ago, I said there was a resurgence of insurgency in Borno State. I commended the federal government for doing very well and that we should come together to resolve the crisis. Some people said there is no insecurity in Borno State. We should not politicise insecurity.”

Zulum explained that there was a need for the state and federal government to pull resources together to properly fund the ongoing operations. He maintained that while not all contractors were bad, there should be government-to-government negotiation in the procurement of arms, rather than doing it through middlemen.

The governor stated, “We must prioritise security. National and subnational governments must pool resources together to procure equipment. The army does not have the necessary equipment on ground to fight the insurgency. Right now, the insurgents are using drones to fight soldiers on the ground.”

Zulum also accused some military officers and politicians of acting as

informants and collaborators for Boko Haram terrorists, vowing that the government would deal ruthlessly with saboteurs frustrating the efforts of his administration.

He stressed, “We have informants and collaborators within the Nigerian armed forces, within the politicians, and within the communities. What we shall do is to strengthen our intelligence and to deal with them ruthlessly.

“Let’s remove contractocracy. In six months, we can put an end to this madness. We need not politicise insecurity.”

He said while it could not be ruled out that some surrendered or repentant insurgents would renege and return to the insurgents’ fold, it was also important to deploy non-kinetic means to ensure that terrorism ended soon.

The governor maintained, “Insurgency will never end with kinetic measures alone. We must ensure that the non-kinetic measures are also put in place. What I mean by non-kinetic measures are socio-political and economic dimensions of the crisis.

“Insurgency will never be ended by corrective measures alone. Among the 300,000 or more that have repented, I cannot rule out the possibility of a few of them going back to the bush.”

While reiterating his opposition to the creation of state police, Zulum backed the recent plan by the federal government to deploy forest guards. But he advised that the guards should be recruited from impacted communities.

Zulum, who was full of praise, particularly for the army, said they knew what it would take to deal with the insurgents. He urged the president to listen to the military and equip them properly.

He said confidently that with the right approach and unity among all tiers of government, insurgency would be decisively dealt with.

The insurgency in Borno State is one of the most protracted and devastating conflicts in West Africa’s recent history. The crisis began in 2009 with the emergence of the jihadist group, Boko Haram.

Over time, Boko Haram fractured, giving rise to a more organised and militarily strategic faction known as the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), affiliated with the global Islamic State network.

The effect on Borno State has been catastrophic. Tens of thousands have been killed, and millions have been

displaced, forced to flee their homes to seek refuge in overcrowded camps or urban centres.

The conflict has also destroyed infrastructure, crippled local economies, and created one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises.

Senate Asks Military to Halt Fresh Boko Haram Attacks in North-east

The senate called on the military authorities to intensify actions to contain a fresh wave of Boko Haram attacks that had left dozens dead, entire communities destroyed, and thousands displaced across the North-east states of Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe.

The resolution followed a motion by Aminu Iya Abbas (Adamawa Central) and backed by more than a dozen senators during plenary on Wednesday.

Abbas recounted recent attacks that devastated his constituency.

He said, “In Kwampre and Zar, homes were burnt and schools destroyed on February 25. In Banga and Lar, five people were killed on April 15, and churches and homes

Opportunity Fair (NOGOF) 2025 organised by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).

Similarly, TotalEnergies expressed optimism in taking an FID on its recently discovered oil field, Ntokon, saying it was currently in consultation with the federal government and the relevant agencies to make that happen.

The two oil majors made the announcements while showcasing the local content opportunities that abound in their projects, both the ones carried out in the past, the ones ongoing and the ones being expected, in line with the objective of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act of 2010.

The theme of the conference was, “Driving Investment and Production Growth: Shaping Sustainable Future for Nigeria Oil and Gas Industry through Indigenous Capacity Development.”

Reeling out his organisation’s projects in Nigeria, located on the oil mining lease (OML) 118, with immense local content opportunities, Oranyeli mentioned the Bonga Main,

institutions will also be required to integrate AML solutions with national databases, such as the Bank Verification Number (BVN) and National Identity Number (NIN), ensuring real-time onboarding and verification.

Additionally, the AML tools must incorporate Know Your Customer (KYC) and Know Your Business (KYB) functionality, enabling automated risk profiling based on historical data, behavioral patterns, and typologies related to money laundering and terrorist financing.

The proposed standard comes at a time when regulators across the world are embracing digital surveillance frameworks to close regulatory gaps and improve oversight, especially with the rise in virtual assets and cross-border financial flows.

The CBN has encouraged financial

dent in the dip in the Manufacturers CEO’s Confidence Index from 50.7 points to 48.3 points, which mirrored the growing anxiety of manufacturers.

“A nation that woos foreign portfolio investors at the expense of its real sector may unwittingly be aspiring to build prosperity on the back of volatility.

“We are disturbed by the implicit prioritisation of short-term foreign capital inflows over the long-term health of domestic industries.

“While maintaining a high interest rate of 27.5 percent may temporarily attract speculative foreign portfolio investors, it is doing so at the expense of Nigeria’s manufacturing base,

institutions and stakeholders

review and provide comments on the draft framework, which is expected to be finalised following public consultations.

which is now choked by unsustainable borrowing costs,” he said. Ajayi-Kadir pointed out that what was evident now in the Nigerian economy was the contrast between the widening profitability of the banking sector buoyed by elevated interest margins and manufacturers’ shrinking margins, rising debts, and declining productivity.

He declared that this was an economic paradox that must be urgently addressed.

“The current monetary policy trajectory risks turning banks into vaults of idle wealth, while the real economy—where jobs are created and value is added—faces suffocation,” said Ajayi-Kadir, who warned that “a society that rewards intermediaries over producers invites long-term decline.”

were set ablaze.

“Then on April 26, 11 volunteer vigilantes from a neighbouring local government were murdered while defending a corporate community.

“Just last week, the attack on Kulda community in Hong LGA on May 16 was particularly devastating.

“Sixteen people were killed, and 90 per cent of homes and places of worship were reduced to ashes. These people now live as refugees in their own land.”

Senate Whip, Mohammed Monguno (Borno North), expressed concern that previously restored peace in parts of Borno State was rapidly deteriorating.

The senate also raised concerns over the redeployment of military resources from the North-east to North-west, where operations against banditry had been given priority.

In its resolutions, the senate asked the government to urgently strengthen military presence in the most affected areas—particularly in Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa State

It also urged the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide immediate humanitarian

Bonga North and Bonga South West.

For Bonga Main, he said Shell wants to extend the life of the asset, which he said required carrying a Turn-Around Maintenance (TAM) in the first quarter of 2026.

He added that the company would use the opportunity of the TAM to ensure that they deal with the critical systems that would allow Bonga to produce for another 15 years.

“So, we have a lot of opportunities around all the normal things we do in the turnaround maintenance.

“So, we’ll see a bit of the detail around these opportunities like security vessels, barges, hotels, and of course helicopter services,” Oranyeli said.

On OML 135, he said Shell was still in the feasibility phase, pointing out that there are great opportunities for local contractors in the project.

For shallow water projects expected between 2025 and 2030, he listed the H1 asset, which is located in OML 144 where Shell has a joint venture with Sunlink.

According to the general manager, the project holds huge job opportunities for local firms in such areas as drilling wells, wells re-entry among

relief to displaced residents.

In another development, the senate passed for second reading a bill to regulate and formalise employment in the informal sector through private agency involvement.

Sponsored by Musa Sani, the bill sought to regulate and formalise the employment of domestic workers, apprentices, interns and other informal sector employees in Nigeria.

It intended to empower the National Directorate of Employment to issue license and monitor privately owned employment agencies whose responsibility would be to enrol employees in their data bank.

Sani explained that the bill would safeguard and enhance their social security and oversee their recruitment by employers who engaged in legitimate occupation on such terms and conditions as might be agreed by the parties.

He stated that the informal sector was usually regarded as the residual labour market where labour was heterogeneous and sources of income were not largely wage dependent, working time was discretionary, and some jobs were not paid for at all.

others, but we are actually leveraging existing infrastructure to ensure that.

Oranyeli further said, “So that’s also a good one for people who want to look at opportunities in the sector.

So, where we are in terms of all our projects? Again, remember I talked about Bonga Main life extension.

“We need to ensure that within 15 years, we have our Bonga full, getting us back to even the 225,000 barrels of oil a day. And that’s why we have a lot of this further development opportunities, which we have matured.

“Like I said earlier, Bonga North Tranche 1, we’ve already taken FID, it’s now where we are trying to execute.

“Again, Bonga Southwest will take FID by 2027, and so we’re working all the concepts together to get it in.”

Also in his presentation at the conference, Deputy General Manager, Nigerian Content, TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited, Mr. Cyprian Ojum, said his company was optimistic of taking FID on its recently discovered oil field, Ntokon, saying the company was currently in consultation with the federal government and the relevant agencies to make that happen.

He described access to affordable credit as “the oxygen that sustains industrial growth,” adding that no economy has ever grown by starving its manufacturers of oxygen.

He further argued that recent disinflationary trends provided justification for the CBN to cut rates as the improvement in the real interest rates has given financial investors higher inflation-adjusted returns. He added that, “maintaining a high nominal interest rate under current inflation conditions is neither necessary nor justifiable, and will only prolong the pain for manufacturers and consumers alike.”

MAN, therefore, called on the CBN to cut the benchmark interest rate significantly to reflect current realities and ease the credit burden on manufacturers.

It also said the CBN should deploy moral suasion and policy incentives for commercial banks to facilitate single-digit concessionary interest rates to the manufacturing sector and also facilitate the approval of the N1

He said TotalEnergies has built its business on the platform supporting Nigerian content by providing opportunities companies that have proven capacity to deliver jobs for it.

He cited the Egina project, which he described as a jumbo project and the biggest in Africa that was hosted in Nigeria, with a record 67 per cent local content participation in building that project. According to him, 67 per cent meant involving Nigerians, involving Nigerian-made goods, involving Nigerian top services, involving Nigerian procurement, involving Nigerian fabrication, construction, transportation and installation, and that’s a big win.

Ojum said TotalEnergies did not relent in its support for local content after the Egina project, as it proceeded to the Ikike project in 2019 until it came alive in 2021. For Ikike, project, he said the company had 90 per cent local content participation and that four major contractors were Nigerians. He also listed the Usan project which achieved 60 per cent of

to

CBN Governor, Yemi Cardoso

All members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the general public may recall the 600th meeting of the National Working Committee (NWC) held on Tuesday, 29th April, 2025 wherein the NWC resolved to hold the 99th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on Tuesday, 27th May, 2025, and the Acting National Chairman, H.E. Amb. Iliya Damagum’s Media address on the same Tuesday, 29th April, 2025 on the summoning of NEC.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

HOMAL VS NIHOTOUR & OTHERS

The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) was created in 1987 consequent on a tripartite agreement executed between the United Nations Development Programme, the International Labour Organization and the Nigerian Government. Nevertheless, for inexplicable reasons the two International Organisations later withdrew their participation in the activities of NIHOTOUR few years after its creation. From its creation and for many years thereafter, NIHOTOUR had no legal basis for its establishment. It was not until 2017 when tourism stakeholders were invited to the Federal House of Representatives to review a bill to set up NIHOTOUR. At the public hearing, the stakeholders objected to many sections of the bill on the basis that the sections usurped on the power of state governments and functions of some other Federal Government agencies as provided by the 1999 constitution as amended.

NIHOTOUR ACT 2022

From 2017, nothing else was heard on the Bill, until when announcement regarding the enactment of National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (Establishment) Act was made in the year 2022. Ongoing through the Act, it was discovered that many sections that the stakeholders advised against were still retained in the Act.

UNCONSTITUTIONAL POWERS

While some of the powers bestowed on NIHOTOUR are validly necessary for its operation as a training agency of Federal Government, nevertheless we considered all those aspects dealing with certification and registration of all employees, grading of personnel and quality of services rendered by hospitality, travel and tourism in Nigeria as invalid and ultra vires the constitution. Hence, in 2022, we drew the attention of those at the helm of affairs of NIHOTOUR then to avert plunging NIHOTOUR into a long drawn legal battle by refraining from those contentious and empire seeking sections.

OUR MEMBERS HARASSMENT

However, we have observed that since the current Director General of NIHOTOUR assumed office late last year, his major interest had been the implementation of those unacceptable sections under the Act. First, our members' Chief Executives were invited to travel down to Abuja by NIHOTOUR with less than 48 hours' notice in February, 2025. This letter was immediately followed by another letter in early March, 2025 demanding the immediate registration of our members' CEO and their Heads of Departments.

Based on proper legal advice received, our association wrote a letter to NIHOTOUR dated 10th March, 2025 objecting to the registration demands. However, rather than responding to our letter, NIHOTOUR continue issuing letters demanding registration from our members. We have also noticed the visit made by NIHOTOUR DG and his team to Nigerian Immigration Service and the Deputy Inspector General of Police with a view to obtaining their assistance in compelling our members' registration. Few days ago, NIHOTOUR sent a letter to our Association alleging that our members' registrations due to NIHOTOUR are being diverted by us to our Association account. All these steps are being taken to harass and brow beat our members into submission.

REGISTRATION AND CERTIFICATION OF HOSPITALITY ENTERPRISES

We wish to advise our members to ignore the threats being made by NIHOTOUR regarding registration of their personnel and their establishment. The Supreme Court in its judgement delivered on 19th July, 2013 in the Suit No: SC.340/2010 between A.G Federation v A. G Lagos State had settled the fact that tourism and regulation of same is a residual matter under 1999 constitution as amended and therefore within the sole legislative power of states. Therefore, we strongly believe that, all the sections in NIHOTOUR Act that offend these constitutional provisions are null and void.

PENDING SUIT & RULE OF LAW

In view of the fact that, it is apparent that NIHOTOUR is hell bent on securing registration of our members' business at all cost, we have filed an action at the Federal High Court, Lagos against NIHOTOUR, AG of Federation and others in Suit No: FHC/L/906/2025 The case is pending before Justice Alagoa. With this case we expect NIHOTOUR to convince the court why it must depart from the decision of the Supreme Court in SUIT SC.340/2010. When the case came up this week NIHOTOUR lawyers were in court. Same was adjourned till 30th September, 2025 for mention with an advice from the court that all the parties should maintain their current positions. With this development our members are advised to go about their normal activities without fear of being sealed off by NIHOTOUR, until the court decides.

MR. ADENIYI OLOGUN Director General

Celebrating the exemplary life of our father

CHIEF (DR) ADOLPHUS GODWIN KARIBI-WHYTE

ourt of Nigeria(Retir ON, DSSRS , JSC R

29th Jan, 1932- 22nd May, 2020

Former Judge of The International Court for the former Yugoslavia, ICTY Chairman, Nigerian Constitutional Conference (1994-1995)

A loving husband, father, grand father, and brother. It has been Five (5) full years since your departure on to glory. You left us an indelible legacy and beautiful memories.

Time has passed, but fond memories still remain. Daddy, you are loved and missed every passing day. You left a void no one can fill.

Your wife Faith Asrame, children , grandchildren, siblings, cousins, and loved ones miss you dearly.

Dein na sime

DAGOGO KARIBI-WHYTE, Esq For the family

Happy 95th Heavenly Birthday To Our Father,

Late High Chief (Dr.) O. B Lulu-Briggs

, oon, dcf, dssrs

Iniikeiroari V of Kalabari Kingdom & Paramount Head of Oruwari Briggs House of Abonnema

“There

are those who write history. There are those who make history. There are those who experience history.” ― Martin Luther King Jr.

Opuda, you propelled the renaissance that awakened a renewed pride and dignity in the Young-Briggs chieftaincy stool and the larger Oruwari Briggs House of Abonnema. You institutionalised the Lulu-Briggs family within the pantheon of the Kalabari tradition, erected monuments and expanded the frontiers of our chieftaincy institution.

You built businesses and deployed huge resources in philanthropy. You participated actively in politics and wanted a better Nigeria.

Today, not only are we among notable families, but we are rendering services to society and keeping alive your legacies of entrepreneurship, philanthropy, respect for traditional institutions, reverence for our ancestors and love for God,

family and community.

We can’t believe it’s almost seven years since you ascended to be with your creator and your ancestors. Your presence remains strong despite your absence and it guides us daily.

When you set out to deploy your time and wealth in the propagation of your ancestry and the service of humanity, little did you know that you were making indelible history that would be experienced by generations unborn.

On this your 95th posthumous birthday, we remember the kind and selfless father and leader you were.

On behalf of the Lulu-Briggs family, the Young-Briggs Chieftaincy House and the entire Oruwari Briggs House of Abonnema, I wish our hero a happy heavenly birthday.

OPUDA (ALABO) DUMO LULU-BRIGGS

Iniikeiroari VI of Kalabari Kingdom

Paramount Head of Oruwari Briggs House of Abonnema

www.thisdaylive.com

GOLF CLUB APPOINTMENT

Leave Wike out of it, writes KENDRICK DAFE

See page 21

HONOUR TO WHOM IT'S DUE

The honour bestowed on Ahmed Wase and others by the Jasawa Community is well-deserved, reckons DANLADI IBRAHIM

See page 21

EDITORIAL ACCIDENTS ON THE WATERWAYS

opinion@thisdaylive.com

Nigeria will lose if only one political party stands unchallenged, MONDAY PHILIPS EKPE warns

APC’S SNOWBALLING INVINCIBILITY

I read my piece published two weeks ago titled, “Defections and Rumours of Defections”, again and realised that it was an unfinished work. My words that got me: “As for the deflated Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), it remains to be seen how what is left of its bravado can salvage anything to keep it afloat, relevant and competitive in what appears to be a looming contest between an all-conquering All Progressives Alliance (APC) and its cowered, disjointed opponents.”

Last week, a former Governor of Benue State, Senator Gabriel Suswan, was on Arise News and gave credence to what has become the fear of lovers of multi-party democracy. Without any pretentions, the PDP chieftain declared that he was only waiting for the outcomes of the efforts of the newly-inaugurated Senator Bukola Saraki-led committee of the party saddled with the duty of mending its badlybroken fences. If they fail, he confessed, he is left with two options: join the opposition coalition being contemplated or decamp to APC. Of these choices, the former looks increasingly less likely as its arrowheadsWazirin Atiku Abubakar, two-term former vice president, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai and Mr Peter Obi, two-term ex-governors - appear to be groping since their highly-publicised visit to former President Muhammadu Buhari few weeks ago. Luckily for him, his second alternative - escaping into the ruling partyis in vogue and has given bandwagon effect a new meaning in our ever-evolving, if not selfdestructive, political space.

The ongoing enlargement of APC has brought on us all the pressure to divert our focus from the issues that impact directly on life and living, matters that stare into our eyes and intimidate us daily without any readiness to blink first soon. Things like what the country’s response should be to the crumbling oil prices, how to push back the resurgent terrorism, what exactly to do in the face of the purchasing power of citizens that has refused to look up, and other persistent survival challenges. Quite unprecedentedly, less than two years into the present administration, politics has effectively elbowed governance to the back seat, against all expectations and common sense. And the preeminent stories centre on the thinning out of dissent to the pleasure of the chest-beating men and women in power.

Some statements made in recent times by the APC Chairman, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, provide windows into the minds of his colleagues and the dilemma that Nigerians may have to contend or live with in the foreseeable future. One, that his party’s victory in the 2027 general election is already a done deal. Two, that there’s nothing wrong if Nigeria runs a one-party system, putting her in the league of countries like China that have achieved greatness through it. And, three, that PDP will become history as early as the end of 2025.

Those prophecies and wishes shouldn’t ordinarily cause anyone insomnia. Afterall,

many chairmen of parties that produce governments in power here are known for pompous and extravagant utterances. Arguably the most spectacular example in this regard is the late ex-Chairman of PDP, Chief Vincent Ogbulafor, who boasted in 2008 that his party would be in the nation’s driver’s seat for six decades. That was approximately midway into what would eventually be the party’s 16-year reign.

The explanation he later gave in 2016 for that truncated prediction should be of interest to watchers of Nigeria’s chequered political journey. As he put it, “some time ago, I used to read in the newspapers that the umbrella of the PDP is torn. Each time I read that, I would laugh and then say to myself that the umbrella is still strong and very intact and ready to accommodate more people. I don’t care if Nigeria becomes a one-party state. We can do it and the PDP can contain all…. When I was PDP chairman, there was peace, and I brought in four non-PDP states: Abia, Imo, Sokoto and Bauchi. Twenty-eight states were under me; 28 PDP governors and a good number of National Assembly members and that was why I said PDP would be in office for 60 years.”

He went on to also reveal that he warned President Goodluck Jonathan about the consequences of tinkering with the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) which was very powerful at the time, a counsel that was ignored. The repercussions were grave. Ogbulafor’s endnote: “Some solid governors left the party - people like Rotimi Amaechi, Bukola Saraki and Aliyu Wamakko. Those are the areas where you get a good number of voters. When they left, the party collapsed.” If he thought PDP had fallen nine years ago when the trauma of losing the political top spot was fresh, what would he say now that its own guardians and beneficiaries are gladly desecrating its once revered structures and clout?

Either history repeats itself or men simply refuse to learn from it. I can’t think of a more fitting truism here. It seems the spirit that possessed Ogbulafor 17 years back has now entered Ganduje. The former Kano State

governor may have aligned himself with that force which refuses to acknowledge the primacy of any platform as a privilege to serve creditably but, instead, indulges in self-importance, vainglory and a feeling of indomitability or even immortality. One major difference between the two men, however, is that times have changed and the current atmosphere is relatively more fouled than the previous one. Not surprisingly, though.

The steady deterioration of many aspects of national life continues unchecked. Shortlived as it was, the Second Republic paraded principled leaders of parties like Alhaji Shehu Shagari, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Mallam Aminu Kano, Alhaji Waziri Ibrahim and Dr Tunji Braithwaite. If anyone tells younger Nigerians that during the period, Alhaji Abubakar Rimi, governor of Kano, had cause to leave his Peoples’ Redemption Party (PRP) for the Nigerian Peoples’ Party (NPP) led by Azikiwe, and willingly left his “lucrative” position, would they believe? Even with all their frailties, those politicians demonstrated some decorum and a far more elevated sense of responsibility and fidelity, if not to the constitution and the people, towards their own conscience. All in this same Nigeria!

It is this Fourth Republic and the longest in Nigeria’s odyssey that’s degenerating at a dizzying pace in terms of integrity. At any rate, what is now clearly a near all-powerful APC shouldn’t gladden the hearts of its operatives and entire membership, especially the primely positioned ones among them. The erasure of ideological lines between political parties will continue to mock any pretence to true democratic credentials. Whatever it was that motivated past political functionaries had over the years shifted its base from the head and heart to the stomach. That condition doesn’t make today’s political class look smarter, unfortunately. Rather, it strips it naked publicly. And gives it away as an assembly of greedy individuals, blinded to basic noble truths about selfless service to humanity, pure pursuit of general happiness and the endless value of legacies.

As everybody tends to gravitate towards the centre, President Bola Tinubu in particular shouldn’t rejoice just yet. And he doesn’t even need to coerce his rivals for them to join his team, as some allegations go. Majority of our politicians would choose self-interest, safety, convenience and anticipated electoral fortunes over principled stand any day. In the midst of all this, the Nigerian people are apparently helpless. May the increasing prospects of having one tall, dominating party in the country not torpedo our hardwon democracy. It’s not too late to learn that no amount of strategies or strongarm will be able to contain the backlashes that would come from any political architecture that stifles diversity and freedom and enthrones unbridled authoritarianism.

Dr Ekpe is a member of THISDAY Editorial Board

Leave Wike out of it, writes KENDRICK DAFE

GOLF CLUB APPOINTMENT

A little learning is a dangerous thing Drink deep, or taste not the Pierian spring… Alexander Pope

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has come under attack following his inauguration of the board of IBB Golf and Country Club, Abuja last month. The latest attack is from someone that goes by the name, Dr Tonye Clinton Jaja.

From the headline of his article, Jaja prefixes his name by Dr (Doctor). I did a search on the World Wide Web and I came across where he presented himself as a lecturer, with PhD in Law (Legislative Drafting) from the University of London (Institute of Advanced Legal Studies).

This means he should naturally be a philosopher; someone who should not fall in the category of people Pope referred to as not drinking deep the Pierian spring. But he has not drunk deep. One, the headline of his article is a red-flag. I am worried that he spelt one simple word differently (“Poop” in the headline, and “pooh” in Par. 10) in a 734word article. The one in Par. 10 is an interjection so it gave me a hell of trouble making sense out of the message the Doctor intended to pass across.

Two, his ancient Greek myth of King Midas allegory of greed and avarice makes nonsense of his tale. There is absolutely no semblance between Wike and King Midas in the narration. Wike has not sought the assistance of the spirits to turn into gold the things he touches. The phrase “Midas touch” comes from this myth and is used to say that somebody has a good fortune.

Three, the Doctor, should not have made boo-boos in something as basic as appointments. Federal appointments are made at the pleasure of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The Ministry of FCT is a federal government entity as shown in its name, so all appointments here are made by the president and actions by the minister therein, are in the president’s stead. Bad mouthing Wike in a matter like this would not change anything.

Four, in the second paragraph of the article, the author stated that there would not have been any matter before the court had the Hon. President of the Court of Appeal “…rejected the appointment in the first place.”

From here, it can be seen clearly that the writer is hired by those who went to court to challenge the appointment. He did not write as a social critic. He did not write to correct an abnormally. He is a mouthpiece for those who wanted to be appointed but could not be.

Things will always go wrong if Doctors like the writer of this article are hired to midwife very important national tasks. If a Jaja, with a PhD in law, cannot write convincingly, then we should not be surprised when students fail examinations.

More so, the Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN, he mentioned, is one of those who sought to be made chairman, Board of Trustees for IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja. This clearly shows bias by the writer. In any case, can’t the president of Nigeria do as he deems fit in making appointments?

The golf club had been engulfed in lead-

ership crisis for a long time. The president, in his wisdom, felt someone of great honour and nobility should step in to bring stability. Wike is beyond reproach in this case so no amount of mudsling can change anything.

Dr Jaja hinged his argument on conflict of interest. The Hon. President of the Court of Appeal, though head of the court, does not act on the day-to-day cases in the court. In fact, the president most often gets to hear about cases only after they have been decided.

It is the Presiding Justices (PJs) of the court’s divisions that assign justices to panels to adjudicate on matters.

I will not buy the claim that heading the board of the club conflicts with her position as the president of the court. If that were so, it would have happened long ago because being a Justice of the Court of Appeal alone gives one enough opportunity to deal with the course of justice as one wants, not as the law prescribes. As a PJ many years ago, she did not thwart the course of justice. It cannot happen now!

Judges are human beings with blood flowing in their veins. Can’t they enjoy a whiff of the freedom of association provided by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria?

It appears mouthing Wike! Wike! is now a pastime for many. Wike is only an agent of the president. He can only act as instructed by his employer.

Everyone has their own time. They should wait. When their time comes, they can as well ascend and do as it pleases them. For now, it is a call to duty, not for those rummaging through the heaps.

International tournaments are frequently held at the Club. President Bola Tinubu’s administration is on a mission to economic recovery. One strong means to achieving this is Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). The golf club is apparently one of the drivers of FDIs. It must be jealously guarded.

Lastly, let it be known to the writer and his co-travelers that the President of the Court of Appeal’s appointment on the board of the golf club is purely on merit. She is coming there to reform, reorganize, heal and develop the place, not to use the position for her personal advancement. As chairman of the board, she is not involved in the daily running of the club. That is the job of the captain of the club. She will only bring in motherly care and wise counsel.

Dafe, a golfer, writes from Port Harcourt

The honour bestowed on Ahmed Wase and others by the Jasawa Community is welldeserved, reckons DANLADI IBRAHIM

HONOUR TO WHOM IT'S DUE

It was the great Indian political leader, Mahatma Gandhi, who once said that leadership is not about flexing muscles, but about getting along with people.

The Jasawa Community in Jos seemed to have realised this, hence decided to recognise leaders that have not only been getting along with them but whom they have been getting along with in their developmental strides.

The Jasawa community, which comprises mainly the Hausa-Fulani communities in the old Jos, decided to reward those that have identified with it in its moments of harvest, as well as its difficult moments over the years.

The community has come a long way as an entity in the struggle for the betterment of its peoples, and has been resilient and dogged to causes that would improve the lots of its citizens. It has, over the years, contributed immensely to the development of Plateau State, through trade and commerce, farming and various empowerment programmes.

That it is now going the extra mile to honour those that stood by it over the years and contributed in uplifting the standard of living of its inhabitants, comes as a testimonial to those to be honoured, marking them out for their worthiness, compassion, sincerity and belief in advancing the course of humanity.

This year's annual merit award of the Jasawa Community Development Association, held May 11, 2025, honoured five illustrious and outstanding personalities.

They are Professor Sheikh Khalid Aliyu, Rt. Hon. Ahmed Idris Wase, CON, Alhaji Murtala Ahmadu Laushi, Alhaji Hassan Sallau Natija and Alhaji Salis Umar Danzaki.

It is meant to be a celebration of excellence, dedication, and selfless service to deserving personalities with friends and family, as well as members of the entire community.

Though from Wase local government area in Plateau South senatorial zone, it is instructive that the Jasawa community decided to go beyond their immediate environment to honour the immediate past deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ahmed Idris Wase.

Many commentators have described the development as a loud testament to how the former deputy speaker has been impacting positively the lives of even those who are not

within his own constituency.

A commentator, Garba Sarki, who lives in Jos, said this shows not just the benevolence of the immediate past deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, but that he is also a cosmopolitan person.

He said: "While other politicians would do projects or assist only those within the voting constituency with the expectation that the gesture would be reciprocated when it's time for elections, the award of merit by the Jasawa community to Hon. Wase shows that he is not that type of politician but one who is genuine in advancing the course of humanity."

Many would agree with this position because it was through Wase's intervention that hundreds of rural roads, water schemes and electrification projects, classrooms, empowerment and solar streetlight projects in several parts of the country came to be.

In his capacity as the deputy speaker of the 9th Assembly, Rt. Hon. Ahmed Idris Wase sponsored several bills targeted at improving Healthcare Access for different zones of the country, and championed the establishment of Orthopaedic Hospitals in each of the Six Geopolitical Zones by amending the Act to create three additional Orthopaedic Hospitals that previously had none, viz—Edo (South South), Jos (North Central) and Jalingo (North East).

It was through these that the Federal Medical Centre at Wase and the Orthopaedic Hospital Jos, Plateau State were established.

As chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Federal Character, he fought consistently to bridge the disparity and imbalances between various states and regions in terms of employment and infrastructure distribution, in order to bring them in line with the constitutional requirement of federal character.

Many agree that Wase is deserving of this and many more recognitions as he has demonstrated that the effect of good governance and quality representation can be felt everywhere.

Ibrahim wrote from Lokogoma, Abuja

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

ACCIDENTS ON THE WATERWAYS

The authorities could do more by enforcing minimum safety standards

In the latest of what has become a familiar tragedy in the country, no fewer than 27 passengers lost their lives in a boat mishap last week in Kwara State. The passengers were returning from a market trip in Niger State when the incident occurred. This unfortunate accident happened barely a few months after over 100 villagers lost their lives in a boat accident in Gbajibo community, Kaiama Local Government Area of the same state. Although reports of investigations into these accidents are hardly released to the public by the National Inland Waterways (NIWA), overcrowding is the usual suspect.

It is a notorious fact that there is hardly any ferry, canoe or the so-called ‘flying boat’ that keeps to the exact passenger number specification. In many instances, boats are loaded with the number of passengers that is twice their capacity, especially at peak periods when people are in a hurry to get back to their places of abode. Consequently, when the canoes encounter stormy conditions along the water, the sheer weight of the human cargo and other luggage would make them easily susceptible to capsize.

lagoons, lakes, and intra-coastal waters. NIWA’s mandate also includes providing “regulatory, economical and operational leadership in the nation’s inland waterways system and develop infrastructural facilities for efficient intermodal transportation system that is safe, seamless and affordable”. But the agency has been reduced to counting dead bodies after these tragedies.

It is unfortunate that almost everything worthwhile and ordinarily should be easily achieved always looks like a mountain in Nigeria. With the existence of waterfronts in various parts of the country and the increasingly devastating state of our roads, innovative leaders would have explored the options of water transportation by heavily investing in our waterways with a view to making them safe. That sadly is not the case even though water transportation is one clear source of de-congesting many of the roads across the country.

Aside from overloading, most of these boats are old and suffer from lack of proper maintenance. Perhaps more important is the obvious lack of safety standards

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

Aside from overloading, most of these boats are old and suffer from lack of proper maintenance. Perhaps more important is the obvious lack of safety standards. In fact, not much is known about the existence of any mandatory operational guidelines for ownership of ferries and boats and the minimum standards that must be met to be in the business of ferrying people through the waters. In the latest incident, there are reports that the boat operated in the dark. This is where a lack of regulatory oversight comes in.

Established in 1997, NIWA is saddled with the task of managing the nation’s 3000 navigable waterways from the Nigeria/Niger Republic and Nigeria/Cameroon borders to the Atlantic Ocean. These comprise Rivers Niger and Benue as well as the creeks,

EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN

THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

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

Going forward, we reiterate our call that operational standards be enforced nationally for those in the business of ferry and canoe transportation. Provision of emergency services along the waterways is also worth considering. It is even more disturbing that we have marine police in the country who always seem to be nowhere to be found in environs where water tragedies occur. If they are marine police, shouldn't they be permanently stationed around waterways and swiftly swing to action when tragedies occur on the waters by promptly rescuing victims?

It is understandable that boat accidents are inevitable in the creeks and coastlines especially given the fact that the people living in those areas have no alternative means of transportation. And perhaps because of that, they tend to pile into whatever watercraft happens to be moving towards the direction they are going. But as we have reiterated several times on this page, authorities in the sector must put in place the necessary safety measures. Travelling by water should not be a suicide mission.

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.

DETERIORATING CONDITIONS OF PAMBEGUA NURSING SCHOOL

Permit me a space to draw the attention of Governor Uba Sani to the deteriorating condition of school of nursing Pambegua campus. The campus was established by the former administration of Nasir el-Rufai to decongest the two campuses of Kaduna and Kafanchan, improve access to nursing profession and provide trained and qualitative nurses to boost health care delivery in the state. The campus was opened in 2024 and study began in earnest. During the take off,the campus faced numerous challenges such as lack of accommodation and befitting classes for the study. However, the good people of Pambegua community wholeheartedly supported the campus to ensure seamless teaching and learning activities. For instance,a memorandum of understanding was entered between some members of the community to provide rented apartments for the school management.Part of the agreement reached was that, after registration, the college will remit house rents to the landlords. Unfortunately, this arrangement has been breached.The landlords have complained that they are yet to receive a kobo, despite the fact that deduction has been made from the students tuition fees. Angered by this development,the landlords have promised to evict

the students if their rents are not paid as arranged. At present,the campus lacks hostel. Besides, the campus lacks potable water supply since November last year. The provost has failed to repair the broken water pump which would have addressed the perennial water supply on the campus.The campus also lacks adequate teaching staff as it depends on community volunteer teaching staff.The school provost is being accused of doing little or nothing to surmount these multi-faceted problems. Therefore, Pambegua community is passionately appealing to the executive governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani,to come to the aid of the school through the following measures: building and rehabilitation of the campus 's hostel to accommodate the ever increasing number of students, drilling of boreholes to curb acute water scarcity, installation of solar energy to address the power challenges, and above all deployment of teaching staff to fill in the shortage of personals.

Ibrahim Mustapha, Pambegua, Kaduna Stat

FROM BAD TO WORSE?

Just when you think it couldn't get worse Trump officials are deporting people who have migrated from Vietnam and Myanmar to South Sudan despite a Court order that states it is unlawful. Although courts might not comment on the humanitarian aspects, it is certainly heartless and dangerous.

South Sudan has been in a theatre of war for a long time and still faces ethnic conflicts. The Myanmar migrants have fled from similar ethnic based conflicts and sending them into more conflict seems quite cruel. Vietnam has also had a troubled past, even if it seems settled now.

The questions are simple, how can the administration keep ignoring the courts and how can they pile more pain onto people that have suffered enough? It's hard to know how they can answer these questions with honesty and integrity.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia

Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE

Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com

08033025611 sms only

Adu: Nigeria’s Security Architecture Needs Overhauling for Effective Result

a member of the all Progressives Congress and Deputy Director-General of Governor Lucky aiyedatiwa Campaign Council in Ondo state, Mr sylvester Olumuyiwa adu, in this interview speaks on Ondo Governor’s electoral victory in all the 18 local government areas of the sunshine state, godfatherism in politics, need to overhaul Nigeria’s security system and state policing. Folalumi Alaran brings excerpts.

Iwould like you to reflect on your experience as the Deputy State Director-General of the Aiyedatiwa Campaign Council.

Within two months of an intensive campaign, what lessons did you learn, particularly in light of the opposition’s allegations that the election was unsatisfactory?

Thank you very much. For any project one embarks on, it is crucial to conduct a thorough risk assessment and develop strategic, tactical, and operational policies before execution. Additionally, it is essential to continuously review each step taken in the course of executing the plan and remain open to feedback to ensure necessary adjustments are made. This approach led to the introduction of new initiatives, resulting in continuous improvements that ultimately secured our 18-0 victory.

Running a political campaign effectively requires strategic thinking, adaptability, and a commitment to ongoing improvements. This ultimately contributed to the victory of the APC candidate, who is now our governor.

The key lessons learned are the importance of strategic planning, listening to people, embracing innovative ideas, and maintaining a mindset of continuous improvement, especially in a competitive political environment where scrutiny is high.

Now that Governor Aiyedatiwa has received the mandate of the electorate to continue in office, as a strong party leader and opinion moulder in Ondo State, what are your expectations of the governor?

Well, first and foremost, there are two ways of looking at this. It is one thing to say we want him to build a hospital; a 20-storey building, for instance or to establish community health centres in underserved areas. We could also consider setting up industrial hubs in strategic locations, which could lead to the creation of a water corporation where households are metered and billed monthly, similar to the electricity sector. I might say, okay, I want him to engage in discussions with banks to secure funding for about 2,000 BRT buses, some operating within the streets and others running between local government areas. These could be my expectations of him. However, it would seem as though I was making demands without considering the federal allocation or the state’s internally generated revenue. Sincerely speaking, these are the fundamental determining factors. I expect him to make the most of both federal allocations and internally generated revenue to ensure lasting infrastructural development and leave a legacy that people will remember. In addition, I believe he needs to establish an advisory council comprising individuals with proven success stories, people who can introduce innovative ideas that may not necessarily require government funds but could be bank-funded. Such initiatives would, in turn, generate revenue and sustain themselves through investment returns.

So, these are my expectations of him.

The Nigerian Constitution outlines specific conditions for declaring a state of emergency. Based on your legal expertise, does the current situation in Rivers state meet the criteria for such a declaration?

As long as the specifics of any law are not explicitly stated and there are no judicial precedents from court rulings, it may be difficult to categorically declare that such a step is unlawful. Most of the differing opinions on this matter stem from individual interpretations of the constitution rather than clear constitutional provisions. The constitution does not explicitly state whether a state of emergency requires the suspension or non-suspension of government. But again, we must consider the circumstances surrounding that decision.

If it is in the best interest of the people and the nation at large, then that is what we should focus on. When we examine the laws, we can see that they can always be improved upon. In fact, to the best of my knowledge, we are not doing enough in this regard. That is precisely why we have

legislative houses, they are meant to constantly review, repeal, amend, suspend, or even abolish certain provisions of the law where necessary.

So, when issues like this arise, it challenges the legislative houses to reassess these laws and establish precedents that can guide future decisions. Those who argue that the decision is wrong and those who insist it is right may both have valid reasons. But is there a clear constitutional provision stating how it should be handled? If such a decision is made in the interest of peace and national progress, I would not oppose it. That is my stance on the matter. I will not categorically say those arguing against it are wrong, nor will I say those supporting it are entirely correct. To the best of my knowledge, both perspectives are based on interpretations rather than explicit constitutional provisions.

Yes, there is the power to take such an action, depending on the prevailing situation in the country. If a situation threatens to bring chaos or anarchy, such measures

We need to tackle these issues from the root. We also have to work with what we currently have. The security agencies are not capable of handling the situation because they lack the necessary resources to do so. That is my position on the matter. We need to address these issues from multiple angles—ensuring that we have competent personnel to provide the security services needed for our nation and also tackling the root causes of these problems.

can be taken. However, the debate is about whether the government has the right to suspend governance during a state of emergency. This is not explicitly stated in the constitution. Nowhere does the constitution categorically say that when a state of emergency is declared, the government must or must not be suspended. Therefore, the circumstances surrounding the decision should ultimately determine what course of action is taken. This presents a challenge to our legislative houses, both at the lower and upper chambers, as well as at the state level to review the relevant laws and consider necessary improvements.

When we talk about godfatherism in politics, many believe it hinders true leadership. What is your take on this?

You see, this is precisely why Nigeria is not progressing. This is why we are where we are today. I have said it time and again, and I will continue to say it. Whatever I do today is not because I want people to vote for me, I do it because I am thinking of my accountability before God. If you share the same parents with me or bear the same surname, or even if you have lived with me for 30 years, I will still not support you for a position unless you are more qualified than others contesting for it. Because you have to think about the interests of society at large, not just what I will gain from supporting that man. And that is what we see today. It is not only at the highest level; even at the lower level, on the streets, you see individuals saying, “He doesn’t know me, so why must I vote for him?”

They do not even think about analysing, I mean, comparing those contesting the election to genuinely consider the best candidate, whether they are close to that person or not. And this is exactly what those we call godfathers do. Why must you insist that your candidate must be put in a position against the will of the majority? That is why we are where we are today. They dictate to them and do not allow them to work.

Recently, was it not just yesterday, I heard a man saying that they want to unbundle INEC so that other agencies can take on some of its responsibilities to frustrate this issue of godfatherism and also take the power of conducting local government elections away from governors, who dictate who should be made local government chairmen in their states. We should think about our future, not just today. I should not continue supporting a system simply because I am a beneficiary of it. It would be a mistake to think I will remain in politics forever. We should think about our future, the people coming after us, and our society as a whole. We are suffering because of all these issues.

Why must an individual dictate who holds positions in society against the will of the people? That is why people say, “If you don’t give me money, I won’t vote for you.” Because, most times, they believe their votes do not count. So, for me, I do not think we should continue like this. What we need is to start thinking about introducing good legislation to put an end to this system. Godfatherism often places incompetent people in positions instead of those who can truly work in the nation’s best interests. We are going through a lot.

NOTE:

How Environmental Pollution is Devastating the Health of Nigerian Children

Environmental pollution remains one of the most pressing but underreported threats to public health in Nigeria—particularly for children. From the remote mining communities of Zamfara to the bustling streets of cities, hazardous contaminants like lead continue to silently claim young lives and impair futures. Despite growing evidence of the scale and severity of the crisis, little has been done to stem the tide. Onuminya Innocent examines how environmental toxins—especially legacy lead—are devastating Nigerian children’s health, and what must be done to reverse the trend

The devastating impact of environmental pollution on the health of Nigerian children is a ticking time bomb. Recently, scores of children died from lead poisoning in Sokoto State—a tragic reminder of the dangers that lurk in our environment.

Lead poisoning is a silent killer capable of causing permanent brain damage, developmental problems, and even death. In Nigeria, artisanal gold mining practices have led to widespread contamination of soil, water, and air with lead. Children, with their developing brains and natural curiosity, are particularly vulnerable.

The Cost of Exposure

The effects of lead poisoning are both far-reaching and devastating. Exposure to lead can damage the brain, kidneys, bones, and nervous system. Children who survive such poisoning often face long-term developmental challenges, including reduced IQ scores and stunted growth.

The situation in Zamfara State is a grim example. In 2010, hundreds of children died from lead poisoning, while thousands more were treated for exposure. The cause was traced to artisanal gold mining, which released highly toxic lead dust into the environment.

Legacy Lead: A Hidden Menace Legacy lead—residual pollution from decades of industrial activity, vehicle emissions, and deteriorating infrastructure—continues to pose a grave threat to Nigeria’s public health. Despite its dangers, it remains a largely neglected issue in the country. Nwoko Chukwudi, a doctoral researcher studying the behaviour of potentially toxic metals, is among the few working to address this environmental crisis. “Legacy lead is a ticking time bomb,” Chukwudi warns. “It’s essential we understand how it behaves in different environmental conditions to mitigate its harmful effects.”

Legacy lead contamination is widespread, particularly in urban centres, where the substance persists in soil, air, and water. Children, pregnant women, and other vulnerable groups face the greatest risk, as even minimal exposure can

result in irreversible damage to cognitive development and overall health. Research and Policy Response

Understanding the chemical and physical behaviour of legacy lead is crucial, yet it remains a complex challenge. Nevertheless, researchers like Chukwudi are collecting vital data that could inform more effective urban planning, public health policy, and environmental regulation.

One of the key goals of this research is to guide urban development strategies. “This

research can help us identify areas that require immediate attention and develop strategies to mitigate lead contamination,” Chukwudi explains.

The implications for public health are equally significant. Mapping areas with high levels of lead can help healthcare providers and policymakers better target interventions.

“We need to raise awareness about the dangers of legacy lead and work together to create a safer, healthier environment for all Nigerians,” Chukwudi emphasises.

Children

at the Forefront of Risk

Globally, lead poisoning remains a serious environmental health hazard, affecting millions of children—and Nigeria is no exception. The World Health Organization (WHO) has categorised lead poisoning as a major public health concern, especially in developing countries. Children are disproportionately affected due to their physiology and behaviour. They absorb four to five times more lead than adults from the same source, and their hand-to-mouth habits increase the likelihood of ingesting lead-contaminated dust, soil, or paint particles.

The health consequences are severe and irreversible. Lead poisoning in children can result in permanent intellectual disabilities, neurological impairment, behavioural disorders, immune system suppression, damage to reproductive organs, and kidney failure.

Sources of Contamination

In Nigeria, the sources of lead exposure are varied and pervasive. These include deteriorating lead-based paints in homes, schools, and public buildings; contaminated soil and dust in playgrounds and residential areas; and informal recycling of lead-acid batteries and other materials. In urban areas especially, legacy lead continues to contaminate the environment long after its original use, lingering in air particles, soil deposits, and water channels.

Call to Action

The time to act is now. The Nigerian government, healthcare professionals, and communities must urgently collaborate to tackle the lead poisoning crisis. This includes ramping up public education campaigns, enforcing stricter safety regulations, improving diagnostic and treatment services, and supporting community-based initiatives to create safe environments.

Lead poisoning is a preventable tragedy. With sustained awareness, targeted policies, and robust research, Nigeria can protect its children from this silent threat and ensure a healthier, more secure future for the generations to come.

Nigerian Air Force Marks 61st Anniversary with Free Medical Outreach in Mafoluku, Lagos

Chiemelie Ezeobi

As part of its 61st anniversary celebrations, the Nigerian Air Force Logistics Command in Lagos organised a free medical outreach for residents of Mafoluku community, providing vital healthcare services to those who may not otherwise have access.

Air Vice Marshal Zayyan Abdullah, Chief of Staff, Logistics Command, who represented the Air Officer Commanding, Air Vice Marshal Adeniran Kolade Ademuwagun, explained that the outreach was part of a nationwide initiative directed by NAF Headquarters.

“The Nigerian Air Force was established in 1964. At 61 years, this is a significant period in the life of any institution. It is a moment of pride and celebration for us—the officers and men of the Nigerian Air Force,” he said.

The services offered free of charge included general medical screening, malaria testing, blood pressure checks, dental examinations, and distribution of essential medications, mosquito nets, and eyeglasses.

“These services are provided at no cost as a gesture of our gratitude and commitment to the health and well-being of

where civilians can view military equipment and aircraft.

“We’ve had open days at our bases where the public can come and see various types of aircraft that have been used in defence operations. These assets were acquired by the Federal Government using resources that belong to all Nigerians, including taxpayer money. So it is only right that the public sees what their support has enabled us to achieve,” he said.

The Nigerian Air Force has also extended its outreach to schools, where officers deliver career talks aimed at inspiring young people to consider future service in the Force.

“We are targeting the younger generation. We want to catch them young—to inform and inspire them to consider joining the Air Force after their secondary or university education. It’s about preparing future leaders who will continue the work of nation-building,” the AOC added.

relationship is very vital to security and like the chief of staff said, we need to win the hearts and minds of the host community so when they see something they will say something. Also, we have had a cordial relationship with the host community as we are giving back to them.”

“Our mission today is to give back to our host community as directed by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal HB Abubakar. Civilians are always welcome at our hospitals, and our services remain heavily subsidised when compared to other medical institutions,” Air Commodore Obi further explained when asked if the pro bono would extend to the hospital after the outreach.

Princess Adenike Dosumu, Chairperson of Community Development Service in Mafoluku, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the outreach.

our community,” the AOC said.

He added that the outreach was designed to bring healthcare to the doorsteps of residents who might face financial or logistical challenges accessing regular medical facilities.

“While many already patronise

our hospitals, we recognise that some people may not be able to come due to various constraints.

That’s why we’ve decided to bring medical services to their doorstep.

Those with minor health concerns are being treated here today, and for more complicated cases, we

refer them to hospitals for further diagnosis and treatment,” he explained.

He also emphasised the Force’s commitment to transparency and community engagement through other anniversary activities, including open days

Also speaking, Air Commodore Kingsley Obi, Commander of the 661 Nigerian Air Force Reference Hospital in Lagos, reaffirmed the importance of the outreach, noting the Force’s ongoing efforts to build strong civil-military relations.

“We believe that civil-military

“Many people in our community don’t like going to the hospital. Some say it’s because of the cost, others mention the stress involved. So bringing this directly to our doorstep—I’m very happy,” she said. “Since the day I told them the Air Force was coming, they’ve been so happy.

Air Vice Marshal Zayyan Abdullah, Chief of Staff, Logistics Command, representative of the Air Officer Commanding, Air Vice Marshal Adeniran Ademuwagun, leading by example at the Nigerian Air Force medical outreach for Mafoluku Community while Air Commodore Kingsley Obi, Commander, 661 Nigerian Air Force Reference Hospital in Lagos (third right) and others observe

With 47.73% Spread, Nigeria

Still Far from Attaining 70% Broadband Penetration Target

Emma Okonji

Despite the assurance by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) that Nigeria’s broadband penetration would reach and surpass 70 per cent threshold by the end of 2025, it appears such assurance is far from reality, considering the current broadband penetration level of 47.73 per cent with 103.5 million broadband subscriptions as at March 2025.

NCC had in 2023, assured Nigerians that the country would attain 50 per cent broadband penetration threshold by the end of 2023 and possibly surpasse the 70 per cent target by 2025, as contained in the Nigeria National Broadband Plan (NNBP) 2020-2025.

NCC’s assurance was

based on the contribution of telecommunications’ sector to the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP), which increased significantly to 16 per cent in the second quarter of 2023, coupled with the various regulatory efforts put in place by the telecoms regulator.

As at March 2024, broadband penetration was 43.53 per cent, but it grew slightly to 45.61 per cent in January 2025, before reaching 47.73 in March 2025.

Given the slow growth rate in broadband penetration since 2023, it is evident that Nigeria did not attain the 50 per cent broadband target by 2023 and may likely not also attain the 70 per cent broadband target by the end of 2025, which is just seven months away.

Latest statistics on broadband subscriptions and penetration published by the NCC, on its official website, showed that Nigeria attained 44.43 per cent penetration, with 96 million broadband subscriptions in December 2024. A breakdown of the numbers showed that in January 2025, Nigeria attained 45.61 broadband penetration, with 98 million broadband subscriptions. In February 2025, the country attained 46.58 broadband penetration, with 100 million broadband subscriptions, before attaining 47.73 broadband penetration level, with 103 million broadband subscriptions in March 2025.

According to the statistics, Nigeria had attained 43.83 per cent broadband penetration in April

2024, with 95 million broadband subscriptions, which dropped to 43.80 per cent broadband penetration with 94 million subscriptions by May 2024. The figures however increased slightly to 43.92 per cent broadband penetration, with 95 million broadband subscriptions in June 2024.

Further analysis revealed that there was another increase in July 2024, when Nigeria attained 44.04 per cent broadband penetration with 95.4 million broadband subscriptions, but the figures dropped again to 43.16 per cent broadband penetration, with 93.5 million broadband subscriptions in August 2024, with a further drop to 41.56 per cent broadband penetration and 90 million broadband subscriptions in September 2024.

The figures however increased to

42.24 per cent broadband penetration, with 91 million broadband subscriptions in October 2024. As at November 2024, broadband penetration was 43.16 per cent, with 93 million broadband subscriptions, before increasing further to 44.43 per cent broadband penetration, with 96 million broadband subscriptions in December 2024.

Responding to the concerns of industry stakeholders over the slow growth rate of broadband penetration , the Chairman, Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbenga Adebayo, told THISDAY in a telephone interview, that if Nigeria does not improve on her investments in the telecoms sector, it would be difficult to attain 70 per cent broadband penetration

by December 2025. According to Adebayo, “The target year 2025 is few months from now, and if we do not have real investors in the telecoms sector who will invest for a minimum turnaround of the sector, it will affect the growth of the telecoms industry, which will also affect the vision of achieving 70 per cent broadband penetration by December 2025. To achieve rapid growth in broadband penetration, we need ubiquitous broadband connectivity, and more fibre optic cable connections from the shores of the sea in Nigeria to the hinterlands where there is high demand for broadband connectivity. We also need more upgrades of cell sites that are formerly on microwave and we need more fibre-to-the-home connectivity.”

Nigerian Students Hopeful in Huawei’s Global ICT Competition Finals

Emma Okonji in Shenzhen, China

Twelve Nigerian students that are studying in various Nigerian universities, and participating in the ongoing Huawei Global ICT Competition Finals, are hopeful they will make Nigeria proud in the final competition that is holding in Shenzhen, China.

A total of 48 students from sub-Saharan Region, are part of the several students from across the globe that are competing in the finals.

One of the Nigerian students from Federal University of Technology, Mina, Victor Akande, who is on the Computing Track Team, yesterday, spoke of Nigerian students’ readiness to excel in the global competition.

According to him, “Nigerian students representing various groups in the competition, are in high spirit to win in the Competition.”

The competition, which began on Tuesday, will end on Saturday

this week May 24, 2025, with an awards ceremony. This year’s competition includes four tracks: Network, Cloud, Computing and AI Innovation, giving students a chance to showcase their expertise across a variety of technical areas.

In its ninth edition, the Huawei ICT Competition 2024-2025 with the theme, “Connection, Glory and Future,” has had an overwhelming response, attracting over 210,000 students and teachers from more than 2,000 colleges and universities in upwards of 100 countries and regions.

Skill gaps are categorically considered the biggest barrier to business transformation according to the WEF’s Future of Jobs Survey respondents, with 63 per cent of employers identifying them as a major barrier over the 2025- 2030 period. The gap spans critical areas such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, big data, and the Internet of Things (IoT). Huawei

is helping to prepare students to be the workforce of the future through its ICT Academy and ICT competitions.

Speaking about the initiative, President of Huawei’s ICT Strategy & Business Development Department, Ritchie Peng, said: “Digital transformation is reshaping industries faster than ever, and the biggest barrier to growth today is the shortage of skilled ICT professionals. By training the next generation through programs like the Huawei ICT Competition and our ICT Academy, we’re fostering innovation and ensuring that talent development keeps pace with the rapid technological advances we are seeing today.”

“At Huawei, we firmly believe that investing in talent is the most powerful way to shape the digital future. By empowering students with cutting-edge ICT knowledge and hands-on experience, we’re not only supporting individual careers but also

accelerating the digital transformation of industries and helping societies worldwide,” Peng further said.

As part of the competition, Huawei, yesterday, held the ‘Huawei Most Valuable Instructor Forum 2025’, where instructors and facilitators drawn from various universities of the world, gave insight into the Huawei ICT Academy and the Global ICT Competition.

The training facilitators spoke more on how to foster collaboration between the academia and the industry, as well as on experimental and flexible learning models, including innovative approaches to improving learning outcomes.

At a panel session yesterday, which was moderated by Executive Manager, ICT Talent Partner Development Department at Huawei Technologies, Tamara Tavsultanova, the panelists discussed ‘Innovative Approaches to Improving Learning Outcomes’. Panelists drawn from various universities of the world,

Market data a s at t uesday,

stressed more on new technologies and their impacts on learners.

Mr. Knimi Bakna Musa from the Federal University of Technology, Mina, Nigeria, stressed the need for trainees and students to be well prepared for today’s digital industry jobs.

According to him, onboarding of technologies in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics, are fast driving tech innovation among trainees and students. He advised Huawei to concentrate more on Integrating the strategies that would further boost tech innovation across the globe.

Dr. Martin Abdullah Anwer from Sainaddin University in Iraq, spoke about how students that graduated from Huawei ICT Academy are doing well in various organisations globally, where they have been employed.

Dr. Tamer Saleh EISayed Mostafa from Egyptian-Russian University in Egypt, spoke about the ripple effect

of training students, who in turn train other students on skills learnt. Other panelists said the training from Huawei ICT Academy had made a great impact in preparing trainees and students for global tech jobs.

The global Huawei ICT Competition is open to students in higher education institutions around the world that partner with the Huawei ICT Academy. Through the competition, Huawei aims to provide students with a platform to compete healthily and exchange ideas, enhancing their ICT knowledge, improving practical skills, and fostering innovation using the latest technologies and platforms. Students take part in hands-on labs, workshops, and real-world scenarios, guided by Huaweicertified instructors, as they learn about Huawei technologies in domains such Networking, Cloud Computing and AI.

Abdul: Innovation is Expanding Frontiers of Gospel Music in Nigeria

Top Nigerian AfroGospel music artiste and record label owner, Mike Abdul, in this interview speaks on Nigeria’s gospel music industry, his songs and future plans. Excerpts

Your songs— “Ojoro”, “Igwe,” “Korede,” “Morire,” “Eyan Jesu,” “I Can Carry My Body”, and “30 Billion Halleluyah”—were all big hits. But we hear something new is coming. What can you share?

Thank you. I’m really grateful for how those songs connected with people. I see my music in layers, and one of those is what I call the “street department.”

That’s where we connect with everyday people—bring joy, push positive values, and share the gospel in a way that feels familiar and relatable. Music that the people understand, sounds they already vibe with.

Right now, something fresh is on the way—it’s energetic, bold, and full of character. I’m excited for people to hear it. It’s something else entirely. It is called Fuji Rush.

What makes Fuji Rush stand out in terms of sound and message?

Fuji Rush is built on strong percussion. It’s intense and rhythmic, but it also has a base. It’s not just about the beat—it’s energetic, layered, and musical.

It’s Fuji at its core, but with elements of pop and other genres woven in. What’s interesting is how gospel is now pushing the boundaries of Fuji, which traditionally wasn’t seen as gospel-friendly. That shift is exciting. Rap has done it. Afrobeat has done it. Fuji Rush is doing it. (Hahaha)

This isn’t about keeping gospel music in a corner—it’s about going into the culture, speaking the language of the streets, and flipping the narrative. That’s the energy Fuji Rush is bringing.

We’re halfway into 2025. How is the year going for you so far?

It’s been a good year. We’ve seen results from the work we put in last year, especially with Ojoro. I honestly didn’t think churches would start singing it, but it’s happening—and that says a lot.

It shows that the language and style people thought were too “outside” for church are now becoming part of the message. We’ve managed to make that crossover, and it’s beautiful to see. We’re not borrowing from the streets anymore—we’re owning the conversation.

The first half of the year has been strong. I’m looking forward to what’s coming next.

People often say your approach to gospel music is very different. How do you feel about that?

It’s a good thing. If people can tell that there’s something unusual about my style but still get the message, then it’s working. That tells me the innovation is doing what it’s supposed to do—helping the message reach people in new ways. And if it’s working, we’re encouraged to do more. That’s the idea.

The Nigerian music scene—gospel included—is known to be competitive and thriving. Wouldn’t you agree? Absolutely. The numbers say it all. If you

check streaming platforms, the reach and impact are massive. Nigerian music is making waves globally, and gospel music, Afrogospel, is part of that story. We’re not just seeing growth—we’re seeing influence.

But gospel still has room for improvement, right?

Yes, there’s progress, but there’s still a lot of work to do.

We’re not where we used to be, which is great, but we’re not where we want to be yet. Personally, I want to see stadiums filled with people showing up for gospel music. I want to see gospel influencing the whole entertainment space.

Imagine if gospel music became the standard— that if you’re not involved in it, audiences don’t even engage. That’s the kind of shift I’m aiming

for. We’ll get there. I want to be part of that movement. Where do you think AfroGospel will be in the next 10 years?

It will evolve, no doubt. People change, culture changes—music has to change with it. The gospel will always find a way to connect. It’s built for that. AfroGospel will adapt, grow, and stay relevant. And as long as there are people to reach, it’ll keep doing what it was meant to do—create real change.

Can you describe the moment you experienced your big break in music?

It was a great feeling—like, “Wow, I made it.” But at the same time, I realized the real work had just begun. Everything before that point felt like preparation— learning, discipline, trying things out. But after the breakthrough, it became more than just making music. It became about purpose.

Now it’s about setting goals, building something meaningful, and staying consistent. That’s when I knew this wasn’t just talent anymore—it was responsibility.

Have you ever thought about quitting?

Not really. Quitting doesn’t cross my mind. Challenges come, yes, and sometimes it feels like you’ve hit a wall. But for me, that’s usually a sign that there’s another level ahead.

Obstacles excite me. They’re reminders that growth is still happening. That’s how I see it.

How do you balance your music career and family life?

Discipline is key. Marriage isn’t something you just do because everyone’s doing it—it’s a serious decision. You need to understand what it requires and respect it. I try to keep work separate from family. Home is a safe space, and I protect that. If family members want to contribute to what I’m doing, that’s fine, but I never impose it. Boundaries matter.

Tell us one thing about Mike Abdul that nobody knows.

If nobody knows it, then maybe that’s how it should stay. (Hahaha) Let’s leave some things as a mystery.

LASG to Release AI Guidelines, Champion Ethical Investment in $20trn Industry

Stories by Emma Okonji

The Lagos State government is gearing up to release its firstever guidelines for Artificial Intelligence (AI), as part of a broader push to ensure technology serves people, not just profits. Lagos State Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Olatubosun Alake, announced the initiative, while delivering a keynote on responsible and inclusive AI investment during the launch of a new AI innovation platform in Lagos. With the global AI industry

projected to hit $20 trillion, Alake said now is the time to ask hard questions such as “Are we building systems we’ll proudly let our children use or ones we’ll have to shield them from?”

According to Alake, “AI is already helping us diagnose diseases, detect financial fraud, and improve how governments serve their people. But without the right guardrails, these same tools can be weaponised or used to deepen inequality.

binding, these will serve as a framework to promote transparency, user privacy, and fairness across AI projects developed in the state.”

To help steer development in the right direction, the Lagos State government will soon unveil its AI guidelines. While not legally

Female Entrepreneurs Urged to Leverage Tech Innovation for Growth

Nigerian female entrepreneurs have been advised to leverage technology innovation to enhance business growth and remain globally competitive in today’s world of technology-driven business.

Chairman, Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME), Delta State, Judith Ojevwe Nwachukwu, gave the advice during her keynote presentation at the ‘She Can With ICT Graduation and Expo’ ceremony in Lagos recently, organised by Women’s Technology Empowerment Centre (W.TEC), where over 5,000 female entrepreneurs graduated in fashion and technology training.

Nwachukwu advised the

graduating female entrepreneurs to leverage technology in driving their businesses, adding that with technology, their businesses can grow rapidly, have good return on investment and remain globally competitive.

She also advised them on the power of networking and collaboration and the need to build resilient mindset that would urge them to do more and never to limit themselves as women in the society.

Director, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Lola Olusola, who is also the Cofounder of Horizon Shores, spoke about the need for Nigerian female entrepreneurs to embrace digital

marketing and increase the number of female entrepreneurs in Nigeria.

Executive Director at W.TEC, Mrs. Oreoluwa Lesi, said the training was targeted at female entrepreneurs that are into fashion design, but do not know how to leverage technology to grow their business.

According to her, ACT Foundation and Access Bank, funded the training programme, where over 5,000 female entrepreneurs were trained online with basic technology and business skills to grow their businesses.

Speaking about how technology has helped in driving businesses, Lesi said most of the women

entrepreneur started out as a small business, with little access to capital. “Usually the initial capital comes from personal savings or friends and family. So there are so many things they are not able to do because they lack capital. So what the training is doing is showing them how they can use technology to basically bypass all those financial huddles,” Lesi said, adding that with technology, female entrepreneurs can position themselves properly online, using digital marketing strategies.

She encouraged the female entrepreneurs to use the knowledge that they’ve learnt to improve and grow their businesses.

FG Reconvenes Meeting to Fast-track Implementation of China-Nigeria FOCAC Agreements

Raheem Akingbolu

The federal government has reconvened a high-level interministerial follow-up meeting to accelerate the implementation of agreements signed at the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Beijing.

The session, co-organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership

(NCSP), focused on reviewing progress, addressing challenges, and ensuring the swift execution of commitments aimed at fostering inclusive economic development.

The meeting, chaired by Director of Regions at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Janet Olisa, brought together key representatives from Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) involved in the bilateral

cooperation. MDAs provided situation reports and outlined steps to strengthen collaboration for the successful implementation of signed agreements. Olisa reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to leveraging its strategic partnership with China for inclusive economic development. She emphasized the urgency of converting memoranda of understanding (MOUs) into

actionable projects that deliver tangible benefits to Nigerians.

Director-General of NCSP, Mr. Joseph Tegbe, reiterated the agency’s role in coordinating implementation efforts and called on MDAs to be proactive. “This partnership offers Nigeria a unique opportunity to unlock investments that will drive job creation, economic diversification, and long-term prosperity,” he stated.

Backing his call, the Special Assistant to the President on ICT Development and Digital

Innovation, Mr. Tokoni Peter Igoin, emphasised federal government’s own steps toward digital safety. He highlighted the National Cybercrime Centre’s role in tackling emerging threats and supporting local efforts like those in Lagos.

Report: Shortage of Project Talent Endangers Global Growth

The new Global Project Management Talent Gap report from Project Management Institute (PMI), has predicted that shortage of project talent could hamper global growth if up to 30 million new project professionals are not produced by 2035.

According to the report, as the world accelerates into an era defined by economic uncertainty, disruption, and digital transformation, it is clear that project professionals are more essential than ever.

“There are almost 40 million project professionals in the global workforce today. To put this in perspective, the global workforce includes approximately 25 million software developers and around 30 million nurses, underscoring the scale and significance of the project management profession,” the report said.

However, projected demand is rising sharply, particularly in fast-growing regions like South Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, and China, where major infrastructure projects, industrial expansion, and digital transformation are creating unprecedented needs for skilled training.

President and CEO of PMI,

Pierre Le Manh, said: “Our world is in flux: economically, politically, environmentally. The need for change is everywhere. And change only happens through successful projects. That makes this a defining moment for project professionals.”

According to him, “We don’t just need millions more of them, we need them ready to lead, to deliver, to turn bold ideas into real and sustainable outcomes. The talent gap in our profession isn’t just a workforce issue. It’s a barrier to progress for business and for the future of the world.”

According to the MD, PMI subSaharan Africa, George Asamani, “Sub-Saharan Africa will require as many as 4.6 million project professionals by 2035, up from 2.6 million today, a nearly 75 per cent increase that translates into a talent shortfall of roughly two million. Addressing the gap will demand scaled investment in professional training and deeper collaboration with universities and governments. Expanding access to globally recognised certifications will be essential to ensuring workforce readiness and building execution capacity on the continent.”

Warri’s Modern Queen: Olori Atuwatse III Blends Tradition with Change

By Adeniyi ifetayo

In October 2024, Her Majesty Olori Atuwatse III became the first African Royal woman to receive the Freedom of the City of London. In the grand Guildhall, before British dignitaries and African well-wishers, she accepted the rare honour with poise.

But for the Queen Consort of Warri Kingdom, it was more than ceremonial. It was a call to continue uplifting communities, particularly across Africa.

Born Ivie Okunbo to the noble family , Olori Atuwatse III hails from one of Nigeria’s most respected families. Her father, the late Captain Idahosa Wells Okunbo, was a business magnate and philanthropist.

Raised in a life of comfort and influence, she chose the path of service. She earned a law degree from the London School of Economics and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2010. Her early ventures, such as co-founding a fashion label in the UK and pioneering a breakfast delivery service in Lagos, reflected both creativity and entrepreneurial flair. But marriage to Prince Utieyinoritsetsola Emiko in 2014 marked a turning point in her journey.

When her husband ascended the throne as Ogiame Atuwatse III in August 2021, Olori stepped into a role steeped in centuries of tradition.

Yet, she was never content with a symbolic presence. From the outset, she used her platform to advocate for vulnerable populations especially women, children, and underserved communities across the Niger Delta.

Her primary avenue for impact is the Royal Iwere Foundation, a vehicle for social intervention projects that target health, education, and economic empowerment.

Through Royal Iwere Foundation, she brings medical care, skills training, and educational outreach to hard-to-reach riverine villages in the Warri Kingdom. These communities, often lacking basic infrastructure, now benefit from periodic visits that deliver hope, healing, and opportunity.

At the heart of her mission is the empowerment of women. The EstablishHER program, founded under her guidance, offers grants and mentoring for female entrepreneurs across Nigeria.

Olori personally engages with the recipients, offering advice and inspiration. Her belief is firm:

when women are empowered, communities thrive. This is evident in her advocacy for girl-child education, where she not only provides scholarships but actively visits schools to encourage and inspire students.

Yet, despite her embrace of modern strategies, she remains rooted in tradition. As Queen Consort, Olori Atuwatse III takes part in age-old Itsekiri

ceremonies, often adorned in coral beads and traditional fabrics. Locals call her “Mama Iwere,” and not just out of courtesy. In a kingdom once defined by hierarchy and distance, she has built an image of warmth and accessibility. She has been spotted reading to children under trees, distributing sanitary products to girls, and encouraging local artisans

to pursue global markets.

Olori’s influence has extended far beyond Warri. Her recent tours to the United States and United Kingdom were not only diplomatic they were deeply personal. In cities like Atlanta and London, she met with African diaspora communities, forging new alliances and exploring ways to connect global Africans to their roots.

At a town hall in Georgia, she remarked, “African royalty often feels mythical, but we are real and we’re ready to collaborate.” Her ability to connect with people, across status and borders, has made her a new kind of monarch one as comfortable in a palace as she is in a classroom or conference hall.

Together with her husband, she also co-founded Elevate Africa, a program designed to nurture young leaders with funding, mentorship, and access to global networks. By supporting innovation, the Olori sees herself as investing in the future of the continent. She once stated, “Progress is not a betrayal of heritage it is the highest expression of it.”

In a country where traditional institutions often clash with contemporary values, Olori Atuwatse III represents a rare bridge. She is deeply spiritual, openly Christian, and often speaks about how faith grounds her in both purpose and patience. Behind the scenes, she juggles the demands of motherhood and monarchy with remarkable composure. As the mother of three, she speaks candidly about raising children in the public eye and the quiet strength required to lead a life so visible yet so personal.

Olori Atuwatse III is redefining the possibilities of modern royalty in Africa. Her reign is not defined by spectacle but by substance. Her impact is not measured in titles but in lives touched. Whether advocating for gender equity, revitalizing local heritage, or engaging the African diaspora, she moves with grace and determination.

In doing so, she has carved a new path one that honours the past while embracing the promise of the future. Through it all, she remains a Queen in service, not just to a throne, but to a people. Every 22nd May is your day set aside to celebrate your birthday as you have become a gift not just to Itsekiri nation but the continent of Africa especially Nigeria. Hearty congratulations to a social entrepreneur, builder, support system, forward thinking, Queen Consort of Warri kingdom, Olori Atuwatse iii, the wife of Olu of Warri kingdom.

PDP’s Incurable Virus is Why It’s Not Being Considered for Coalition, Declares Babachir

Says alliance soon to announce new platform to assuage the anxiety of Nigerians

A former Secretary to the Government of the

Lawal, has revealed that the politicians pushing for a strong opposition coalition had considered the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as a no-go area because of her internal challenges which he

considered incurable virus.

Babachir, who spoke when he appeared on Arise Television’s ‘The Morning Show’, disclosed that part of the consideration of the coalition’s

technical committee was examining whether the alliance should register a new party or adopt and upgrade an existing one.

The former SGF also confirmed

NLC to FG: It’s Sin to Destabilise Workers’ Party; You Are the Problem, LP Fires Back

chuks Okocha and Onyebuchi ezigbo in Abuja

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has alleged that agencies of the federal government were involved in the destabilisation of the Labour Party, describing it a sin to do such to. the workers’ party.

But the Labour Party faction led by Julius Abure, hasblamed the crisis befalling the party on the NLC led by Comrade Joe Ajero in cohoots with Nenadi Usman and others, instead of pointing fingers at the federal government.

The allegation by the Labour

Movement came just as the leadership of the Board of Trustees of the Labour Party convened a meeting of the National Executive Council (NEC) to plan way forward and set in motion processes for the conduct of congresses nationwide.

Speaking at the opening of the meeting held at Top Rank Hotel in Abuja, the NLC President, Joe Ajaero, said federal government has been afraid of Labour Party right from the onset due to its link with the workers.

“All agencies of government are involved in this destabilisation plot. So, it’s better we understand it clearly and tell them that they should remove

their hands in the disorganisation of the workers. It is a sin to destabilise the workers party,” he said.

Ajaero explained that the govern- ment was afraid of the name Labour Party from onset and would not have registered it but for the wisdom applied by Labour Party that the promoters of the party who first named it party for Social Democracy before changing it to Labour Party after registration.

“All over the world, the labour Party is organised and ran by the trade unions. Over 57 countries of the world have functional Labour Party. Why would Nigeria’s case be different and why would government

put eyes in Labour Party in Nigeria,” he said.

But the Abure faction of the Labour Party, in a statement by the National Publicity Secretary of the Labour party, Obiora Ifoh, said, ‘’We must state clearly and categorically that if there is any person or organisation that has destabilised the Labour Party or who is working to destabilise the party, it is no other person than Joe Ajero and the NLC.

‘’We must also state here that after the general election in 2023, the party has no issues at all, we had no faction and we had no major disagreement in the party.

that former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, was a committed and active member of the group championing the coalition campaign to wrest power from President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.

According to him, the coalition was mostly driven by politicians, who agreed to form an alliance against the ruling party.

Asked why the meetings and conversations about the coalition spearheaded by Atiku had not featured the PDP, Babachir stated that the PDP has an incurable virus.

“In all the meetings I’ve attended so far, nobody has ever bothered about adopting the PDP as the platform. We all agree that PDP has an incurable virus.

“No anti-biotics can cure what is ailing the PDP and we don’t want to go into a house that we cannot modify; that is not willing to change,” he said.

Babachir also disclosed that the politicians behind the coalition opposition would soon announce their new platform to assuage the anxiety

of Nigerians, who are worried about the coalition’s political party. With the PDP considered as a no-go area, Babachir’s revelation implied that Atiku might dump the party anytime soon. The PDP has been hit with a seemingly intractable leadership crisis since it lost the 2023 presidential election. Lawal, has dismissed the wave of political defections to the ruling APC, saying most defectors were motivated by hunger and self-preservation, not ideology or principle.

He also said some governors could not afford to lose their polling units, let alone their wards during elections in 2027

He said, “It’s not every Nigerian that can withstand hunger and not every Nigerian can survive a poverty condition. So most of these politicians that are defecting to APC are probably driven by the desire to safeguard their stomachs and to safeguard their luxurious lifestyles that they have acquired while in government, using the people’s money. So, to them, it’s okay, they can go that way. That’s what they choose to do.”

Olori Atuwatse III

chuks Okocha in Abuja and emma Okonji and Agnes ekebuike in Lagos

Federation, Babachir

APM Terminals: Sustainable Growth in Africa Only Possible through PPP

Oluchi Chibuzor

Lasting infrastructure, inclusive employment and sustainable growth in Africa is only possible when governments and businesses work together (Public-Private sector partnership), sharing knowledge and co-investing in the future, APM Terminals Regional Managing Director, Africa and Europe, Igor van den Essen has said.

He made this known at the recently concluded Africa CEO Forum, which held in Abidjan, Cote D Ivoire.

At the panel session on themed, “Charting New Trade Routes: Strengthening the Resilience of African Supply Chains,” Igor said the essential role of publicprivate partnerships to enable long-term development had bene a recurring theme throughout the forum.

“This is precisely the mindset guiding our engagement in, for instance, Nigeria. We are in active discussions with the port authority and government partners to upgrade our terminal in Lagos to service larger vessels, strengthen connectivity and lower the cost of doing business. This is operational excellence in action, built on local collaboration, long-term planning and customercentric design to create joint predictability and stability.”

He added that Africa was set to play a vital role in global trade, driven by its rapidly growing populations and economies. Yet, without major investment in ports, roads and rail, its infrastructure gap will only widen.

“Economic development

is directly linked to robust port infrastructure. Seaport upgrades, inland connectivity and corridor developments are among the most effective levers for improving competitiveness, boosting exports and driving the economy. Investing in infrastructure is investing in Africa’s future. It strengthens local industries, attracts private investment and provides the foundation for stable and self-sustaining growth.

“That’s why our investments go beyond the quay. We’re building integrated logistics services, including cold chain solutions, distribution hubs and digital tools that boost safety, reliability and performance across the board. Integration is how we remove barriers, unlock efficiencies and deliver results for all stakeholders,” Igor said.

Rite Foods CEO Charges NUTM Students on Opportunities in Nigeria

As part of efforts at human capital building and value orientation among young Nigerians, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Rite Foods Limited, Seleem Adegunwa, charged students of the Nigerian University of Technology and Management (NUTM) to take advantage of the immense opportunities in the Nigerian ecosystem.

The Rite Foods’ boss, who was accompanied by his top management team to the institution at Apapa, Lagos, urged the students to

take hold of the opportunities that abound in the country, adopt measures of attaining their dreams, be courageous, committed to their course, and be proudly Nigerian. He drew an analogy from the company, with the Proudly Nigerian mantra, which from a humble beginning, has become a leading company in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), with award-winning brands that are produced in a world-class factory, with modern technology and infrastructure here in Nigeria.

Adegunwa affirmed that the company with unparalleled brands in the highly competitive Nigerian food and beverage industry entered the market with disruptive innovation that is uncommon for an indigenous brand, as evident in the Fearless Energy Drink’s first-ever polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle package, and the Nigerian Symbol on the Bigi Carbonated Soft Drink design, which was later copied by competitors, among others.

How Terra Premium is Catering to Nigeria’s Diverse Tastes

Have you ever paused in the seasoning aisle, picked up a pack labeled “Premium,” and wondered what exactly makes a seasoning cube premium? Is it just a marketing label, or does it carry a deeper story? Like a nod to modern sophistication and a promise of unparalleled taste and quality, an innovation has emerged in the seasoning space, one that speaks directly to the refined expectations of today’s discerning shoppers.

Terra Premium Seasoning Cube embodies the evolution of seasoning, catering to the heightened expectations of today’s Nigerian shoppers. From the sleek glint of its packaging under supermarket lights to the depth of aroma released when a cube hits the pot, the entire experience is curated to appeal to the modern palate.

Designed in chicken and

beef flavours specifically for modern trade outlets such as supermarkets and hypermarkets, Terra stands out with its elegant packaging and refined branding. Its presence signals a new era of luxury in the seasoning category. But beyond the aesthetics lies something deeper, a masterful blend of spices and high-quality ingredients, meticulously chosen to elevate everyday meals.

What makes Terra Premium truly exceptional is its dedication to growing alongside Nigeria. Consumers have not only embraced it but also made it a kitchen essential. They praise its unique blend of spices and recommend it to friends and family. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many loving the rich flavor it adds to dishes. It enhances meals without overpowering them, transforming everyday

food into extraordinary culinary experiences.

Chief Marketing Officer, TGI Group, Probal Bhattacharya, explained, “Terra Premium was created with a clear vision to redefine what premium means in the seasoning category. From its elegant packaging to its bold shelf presence, every detail is tailored for today’s modern retail spaces, like supermarkets and hypermarkets. We are delivering a sophisticated experience from the moment a consumer sees it on the shelf to the kitchen.

Terra Premium is setting a new standard; it’s the first of its kind in Nigeria’s seasoning landscape, and we’re proud to lead the way.”

From the first glimpse on the shelf to the final flavour note in the pot, Terra Premium delivers more than just flavor, it delivers an experience.

LASG Endorses Drinks Fest Lagos 2025

The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture via the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, has officially endorsed Drinks Fest Lagos 2025, a two-day celebration of the city’s vibrant beverage culture and entertainment scene.

A concept of Without a Box PR, this inaugural festival will take place on May 30th and 31st, 2025, at the Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Drinks Fest Lagos is a

one-of-a-kind experience that brings together the best of Lagos nightlife. It features drink brand showcases, vendor exhibitions, and top-tier musical performances. The event aims to capture the pulse of the city’s dynamic spirit while creating meaningful connections between brands and consumers.

“We are incredibly honoured to receive the endorsement of the Lagos State Government for the maiden edition of Drinks Fest Lagos. This support not only validates the vision behind the festival but also energises

our mission to showcase Lagos as the heartbeat of Africa’s nightlife and cultural innovation,” said Theodore Nyingifa, Chief Organiser of Drinks Fest Lagos and Lead Consultant at Without a Box PR.

“This exciting partnership reiterates our administration’s continued commitment to supporting vibrant initiatives, fostering bold brand collaborations, and building a dynamic community of fun-lovers with a vibrant landscape” said Idris Aregbe, Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture.

Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

L-R: APM Terminals Regional Managing Director, Africa and Europe, Igor van den Essen; Candidate, Presidency of AfDB, Samuel MAIMBO; Chief Executive Officer, CEVA Logistics, Mathieu Friedberg and Managing Director, Port Autonome d’Abidjan, Hien Yacouba SIE at a panel session during the just concluded Africa CEO Forum held in Abidjan… recently

Stock Market Depreciates by 0.10% on Sell Pressure in Oando, Others

Kayode Tokede

The stock market yesterday closed negative note as a major indicator dropped by 0.10 per cent on investors sell pressure in Oando Plc (4.8 per cent decline) and 26 others.

Precisely, the Nigerian Exchange Limited All-Share Index (NGX ASI) declined by 111.37 basis points, or 0.10

per cent to close at 109,619.10 basis points. Also, market capitalisation dipped by N70 billion to close at N68.896 trillion.

Accordingly, the NGX ASI Month-to-Date and Year-to-Date returns settled at +3.6per cent and +6.5per cent, respectively.

Despite the decline, investor sentiment, as measured by market breadth closed positive as 29 stocks gained,

while 27 lost. RT Briscoe Nigeria emerged the highest price gainer of 10 per cent to close at N2.09, per share. Eunisell Interlinked followed with a gain of 9.75 per cent to close at N12.95, while Livestock Feeds rose by 9.61 per cent to close at N8.90, per share.

Linkage Assurance appreciated by 9.46 per cent to close at N1.62, while Meyer advanced by 8.89 per cent

to close at N9.80, per share. On the other side, Champion Breweries and Lasaco Assurance led others on the losers’ chart with 10 per cent each to close at N7.20 and N2.52 respectively, while McNichols followed with a decline of 9.45 per cent to close at N2.30, per share.

Multiverse Mining & Exploration lost 7.22 per cent to close at N9.00, while Sovereign Trust Insurance

depreciated by 6.80 per cent to close at 96 kobo, per share. The total volume of trades rose by 33.6 per cent to 664.159 million units, valued at N12.996 billion, and exchanged in 19,439 deals. Transactions in the shares of Japaul Gold & Ventures led the activity with 90.022 million shares worth N186.472 million. Tantalizer followed with a volume of 82.749 million shares valued at N231

million, while Fidelity Bank traded 67.688 million shares valued at N1.255 billion. Nigerian Breweries traded 52.243 million shares worth N3.132 billion, while Custodian Investment traded 36.493 million shares worth N719.281 million. On market outlook, Afrinvest Limited said, “we expect the local bourse to return to the green territory due to the improved market sentiment, barring any negative shock.”

tribute

Suleman Momoh: A Life Unscripted

by Maero Ozako

My mind has taken leaps, skipped hills and swam across the Niger to write not just a eulogy but a testimony which I hope, pulses with the fullness of Sule’s life. While I feel the ache of the loss of this dear brother of mine, I also hear his laughter, remember the grace, and the mischief that Sule carried like a second skin.

Suleman Momoh passed away on May 13, 2025, and with his passing, the world dimmed—just a little. “Was” feels like a betrayal of the present tense he so richly filled. That word is still too raw, too sharp. But this is what death does: it teaches us about life, what life tries—and often fails—to teach us about death.

The words of Lolu Akinwunmi, CEO of Prima Garnet and Nitro 121 could not be truer;

“If love could have saved you, Suleman Momoh, you would have lived forever.”

Sule was executive director at Nitro 121 till his passing.

And yet, Sule’s life defied death’s usual shadows because he didn’t just live—he loved. Fiercely. Loudly. Unconditionally. Unscripted.

Sule’s heart could not be contained- it knew no bounds.

Sule gave and gave and gave—with no tally, no transaction, no expectation. Perhaps that’s why the outpouring of love after his passing caught even those of us closest to him by surprise. The love has come from everywhere—from old colleagues, new friends, clients, family, and people we didn’t even know he’d touched. But Sule never kept score. Maybe God gave him an extra chamber in his heart—because how else do you explain the capacity of love in his heart?

He treated everyone ever so fairly. No one person could claim to be his “best friend.” We all were.

Unscripted Kindness was Sule’s vesthis shimi! There was no script to Sule’s life. He didn’t curate his kindness for applause or perform generosity for the camera. He simply lived love—without ego, without motive. His warmth and humour transcended status, shape, or title. Tall, short, big, small, CEO or street vendor—Sule treated everyone with the same joy and unlimited respect.

I once thought his gentle, generous spirit was reserved for a few of us. Now I know better. It was for everyone he encountered. That realization humbles me.

Sule was The Clown, the Creative, the Confidant. He was a clown as a way of life—his jokes were unforgettable. Both of us had a running gag. Whenever I gave him a creative brief, he’d quip:

“Aunty Mero, abeg, make you do, you get to get money o! If you poor, me sef go poor! That’s why I dey do your work quick quick!”

I still laugh through tears remembering how he’d joke during brainstorming sessions;

“Wetin you dey look? You never see Oyibo before?” And to think that Sule was dark skinned, this was funny!

Sule was many things: Executive Director at Nitro 121, advertising genius, designer of the Proudly Nigeria and RRS logos, published author under the name Omone King. He wrote and published @ book- UNLOCKING YOUR POTENTIAL which is sold on Amazon. He designed countless logos for my projects—CHUMMIES, VEX MONEY—always delivering brilliance without billing.

He was a fantastic writer. A philosopher. And yes, the book on proverbs he once asked me to translate into Pidgin? I did. He never published it, classic Sule always putting other people’s projects before his. I hope his family will publish this book

someday. . That book is a gem waiting to shine.

Sule’s loyalty was not just a trait—it was his nature; as natural to him as breathing. Apart from my daughter Zulu, my mother, and my late brother Efere, no one else has matched Sule’s unwavering presence in our lives. And he wasn’t family by blood. He was just Sule.

In my single-mother journey, he walked beside Zulu and I like a protective brother. When Zulu landed her first job, he was the first to scream, to cheer, to joke! Of course, when Zulu got her first salary, she sent him “pocket money.” He was elated! He celebrated every little win like it was his own.

When my sister Oghale heard of his passing, she said, “Aunty Maero, that was one brother who loved you through and through.” And it’s true. He was my brother. Not by birth, but by bond.

We spent a glorious few days together in February last year—Zulu, Sule, his beloved wife IJ (his “smallie”), and I. It was a creative retreat, a spontaneous gift of time and laughter. I was so happy to connect and enlist him on this. He cracked jokes till nightfall; stories till our stomachs hurt from laughing. If you knew Sule, you know—there was always gist. Always joy. He was madly in love with his wife and crazy about their children: Joann, Jessie, and Jaden. He spoke about them constantly,

searched endlessly for opportunities to give them more—better schools, brighter futures. Watching Jaden’s heartbreak at the funeral shattered me. How do you explain a love that big, that constant, that now feels like a missing limb?

We worked together at Prima Garnet over 25 years ago. Advertising, for those who know, is a volatile space. Ego clashes. Deadline heat. Tempers flying. But Sule? Always calm. Always on time. Always composed.

I once witnessed someone accuse him of something unfounded. He almost got angry. And our MD, Lolu, said:

“If anyone can annoy Sule, that person has to be a devil.”

That’s how rare his anger was. Peace was his posture. Always. Sule never counted the cost. Even after I left advertising, Sule remained my creative partner. After my brother Efere passed, he filled that gaping space. Without saying so, he just… stepped in. No fanfare. Just love.

His fingerprints are on countless legacies—designs, books, ideas. He nudged others to dream. Lolu shared how Sule encouraged him to finish his manuscript—and designed the cover. That book will be dedicated to Sule. So will Yetunde Adesina’s, who also said Sule pushed her to write and made the cover happen.

He was always pushing others forward,

even while quietly placing himself last. What Now?

His colleagues at Nitro 121 held a tribute that captured his essence. No theatrics. Just deep, aching love. There were no dry eyes in the room. And for a moment, I foolishly believed Sule might jump out and shout:

“Wetin dey do una? Why una dey cry? Person nor dey play again? I never go anywhere o!”

Oh, how I wish.

If there’s one flaw Sule had, it’s that he remembered everyone… and forgot himself. He carried too many people’s burdens. Gave too much. Loved too loud. And we didn’t always give it back while he was still here.

But maybe, in honoring his memory, we finally can.

Suleman Momoh was not a man with a script. He didn’t live life according to anyone’s expectations. He was the kind of man who reminds you why people are worth loving—loudly, patiently, imperfectly. He was not my friend. He was my brother.

And now, the world is quieter without his laughter echoing through it.

•Maero Ozako a child rights advocate and children’s motivator is a copywywriter, published author and illustrator of several children’s books and her latest novel; Yanga girl. She writes from Lagos.

Late Suleman Momoh

Gamin G Week

Edited by nseobonG okon-ekonG |

gamingweek1117@gmail.com | Tel: 08114495324

In Season Three of Compliance Training for

Nseobong Okon-Ekong and Iyke Bede attended a recent training in Lagos for operators in the gaming industry during which participants learned practical steps required to meet anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing standards specific to the gaming industry

To strengthen regulatory compliance within Nigeria’s gaming sector, the three major umbrella trade groups in the sector; Association of Nigerian Bookmakers (ANB), Nigeria Licensed Lottery Operators Forum and the Association for Casino and Machine Operators in Nigeria invited personnel from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), through its Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering (SCUML) and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) for a focused training session for gaming operators and other stakeholders classified as Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs).

The session, titled ‘Training/Interactive Session on Compliance 3.0 with SCUML and NFIU’, was designed to deepen participants’ understanding of their legal obligations, the risks of non-compliance, and the practical steps required to meet anti-money laundering (AML)

and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) standards specific to the gaming industry.

The training opened with a detailed presentation by ACE II Folashade Oluwasanya of SCUML, who provided a comprehensive breakdown of the 2022 Anti-Money Laundering Act. Her presentation laid out the regulatory framework within which gaming operators are expected to function, and the various tools available to help them meet these obligations.

The overall goal of the instructions was to make it clear that where there are laws, there are commensurate punishment. Participants were reminded that there is increased scrutiny on the sector because it has been identified as a pliable avenue for money laundering and terrorism financing.

She highlighted that registration with SCUML remains a fundamental requirement. Operators not registered are automatically flagged during inspections, which could be onsite, offsite, or spot

Crypto Betting Is Here: What Banks, Bettors, and Regulators Need to Know

The entire gaming ecosystem; operators, regulators, bettors and the payment gateways are grappling with the emergence of crypto betting, writes Davidson Abraham

The intersection of cryptocurrency and online sports betting is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s happening now. As digital assets continue to gain traction, a growing number of betting platforms are beginning to accept cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and stablecoins such as USDT for deposits and withdrawals. This shift is driven by tech-savvy users, rapid transactions,

and the increasing involvement of fintech firms offering secure and compliant payment solutions. In states like Colorado and New Jersey in the United States of America, where online sports betting is legal and regulated, platforms have begun experimenting with crypto payments. These states have relatively progressive regulatory frameworks that support financial innovation,

inspections—the last requiring no prior notification. Oluwasanya also stressed the importance of tracking currency transactions, and cash-based transactions, which are common in the gaming environment. Operators were urged to develop strong internal control systems that include Know Your Customer (KYC) and Customer Due Diligence (CDD) processes, with particular attention to identifying both legal and beneficial owners of registered companies in Nigeria, aided by resources such as the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) portal. A demonstration of how this can be achieved was carried out during the training session, as participants were taken through a step-by-step procedure to unmask the real owners of any corporate entity. A beneficial owner was identified as anyone who controls shares of a company, five per cent and above. It was emphasized that a legal owner of a company can be quite different from a beneficial owner. Operators in the gaming sector were alerted

creating a favorable environment for fintech-betting partnerships. Companies like BitPay, MoonPay, and Coinbase Commerce act as intermediaries— handling crypto-to-fiat conversions and embedding anti-fraud mechanisms to help betting platforms remain compliant. This enables users to fund their accounts directly with crypto while shielding platforms from regulatory breaches.

However, banks remain cautious. Despite the growing interest, most traditional financial institutions are reluctant to facilitate transactions between crypto wallets and gambling platforms. Their concerns are rooted in anti-money laundering (AML) laws and know-your-customer (KYC) compliance requirements. The pseudo-anonymous nature of many crypto transactions raises red flags about traceability, source of funds, and potential fraud. Until clear, unified federal guidelines are introduced—especially from bodies like the SEC, FinCEN, and the U.S. Treasury—banks are likely to maintain their distance.

Globally, this trend is also expanding. In regions with limited banking access but strong mobile and crypto penetration, such as parts of Africa and South America, crypto betting is emerging as an accessible alternative. On the other hand, some jurisdictions ban gambling entirely, pushing users toward grey or offshore platforms that operate with little oversight.

Platforms like Stake.com and Roobet, though not fully regulated in the U.S., have gained popularity through VPN use and aggressive crypto marketing. Meanwhile, regulated giants like FanDuel and DraftKings have yet to integrate crypto directly but are reportedly exploring options, pending clearer regulation.

For regulators, the challenge lies in balancing innovation with risk. For bettors, the promise is speed, accessibility, and decentralization. And for fintechs, the opportunity is to bridge a compliance gap that banks still hesitate to close.

Crypto betting is here—and it’s only getting started.

on the existence of a Targeted Financial Sanctions (TFS) list and the importance of always checking if their clients or vendors are on this record. Once identified, a gaming operator must stop dealing with them and to report to the appropriate government agency immediately. Owing to the fact that some individuals may bear the same names, participants at the training were taught how to check their unique identifiers. For instance, date of birth, place of birth, state of origin, local government area and nationality. The trainers laid emphasis on the difference between money laundering and terrorism financing. While money laundering was identified as a way of making dirty money clean, terrorism financing was described as any form of aiding or abetting terrorist operations.

Another phrase that attracted participants’ interest was about politically exposed persons (PEPs)—for example, civil servants from the designation of Assistant Director. If persons under this category carry on, even the smallest financial transaction with a gaming industry operator, they are supposed to file a report on it to the appropriate government agency. PEPs require a heightened level of scrutiny due to their exposure to public funds and influence. The session outlined clear steps for implementing an effective compliance structure, including establishing AML policies, appointing a compliance officer, and ongoing staff training. Particular attention was given to the requirement for operators to report Suspicious Transactions (STRs) to the NFIU. Participants were also introduced to NIPSER, a platform used to check entities linked to terrorism financing. This tool, along with proper internal screening procedures, is intended to strengthen the industry’s defence against abuse.

Oluwasanya also noted the cash transaction thresholds that must be reported: N5 million for individuals and N10 million for businesses. These thresholds are critical in determining when reports should be filed and in identifying unusual transaction patterns.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Folashade oluwasanya of eFCC addressing participants

L-R: adewale akande, bimpe akingba, Rosemary ogbetou, Yomi oketope, Dominic offor, ibinabo amachree, Tamunopreye Tuadibofa, Folashade oluwasanya, okorn okorn, Chima onwuka and oluseyi oni

COURTESY VISIT OF THE CRMI GOVERNING COUNCIL MEMBERS TO NEMA...

L-R: Governing Council Member, Chartered Risk Management Institute (CRMI), Mrs. Augusta Ehighalna; First Vice President, CRMI, Mr. Kevin Ugwuoke; Director General, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs. Zubaida Umar; President of CRMI, Professor Ezekiel Oseni; CRMI Council Member, Mrs. Olubanke Akanni; and CRMI Registrar, Dr. Victor Olannye, during the courtesy visit of the CRMI Governing Council members to NEMA Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday

Ministry, EFCC Inspect Seized 753-Unit

Abuja Estate, Set for Valuation of Property

FG

to complete

The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, alongside the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, yesterday led a joint team on a physical site inspection of a confiscated housing estate comprising 753 housing units.

The estate, earlier seized from a former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Godwin

project before sale of apartments Olukoyede

Emefiele, was recovered by the EFCC and officially handed over to the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development on Tuesday, following a directive by President Bola Tinubu.

During the inspection, Dangiwa announced that the ministry would immediately commence its technical assessments by conducting integrity tests on the buildings. Upon successful evaluation, the structures, he said, will be completed and made available for sale to Nigerians

through the ‘Renewed Hope’ Portal, which is already operational.

The minister emphasised the federal government’s commitment to transparency and accountability, calling on public office holders to steer clear of corrupt practices, separate statements in Abuja by the ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Badamasi Haiba, as well as the anti-graft agency, said.

“The government of the day is serious about fighting corruption,”

he stated, commending the EFCC and its leadership for what he described as a landmark recovery and one of the most significant in the nation’s history within such a short span of time.

says units may increase after remodelling meters, including duplexes and other apartments.

The minister commended the EFCC for its ‘remarkable efforts’ in asset recovery across the country, especially the ‘landmark’ recovery and handover of the 753 unit of houses located on Plot 109, Cadastral Zone C09, Lokogoma District, measuring 150,500 square

Shadow Govt: Court Orders Service of Court Papers on Utomi in Lagos

Fixes hearing for June 25

A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered service of court documents on the 2007 presidential candidate of African Democratic Congress (ADC), Professor Pat Utomi, in relation to a suit pending over his announced plan to establish a shadow government in the country.

In the suit marked: FHC/ABJ/ CS/937/2025, filed by the Department of State Services (DSS) through a team of lawyers, led by Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN), the service argued that, not only was the planned shadow government an aberration, it constituted a grave attack on the constitution and a threat to the current democratically elected government.

On Wednesday, Justice James

Omotosho granted an ex-parte motion argued by Kehinde for an order allowing service of court documents on Utomi, listed as the sole defendant, at his Lagos address by means of courier service.

The plaintiff gave Utomi’s Lagos address as: No. 6 Balarabe Musa Crescent, off Samuel Manuwa Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, Lagos State. Omotosho adjourned till June 25 for hearing, before which Utomi was expected to have filed his defence.

In the suit instituted on May 13, the DSS expressed concern that such a structure, styled as a “shadow government”, if left unchecked, might incite political unrest, cause intergroup tensions, and embolden other unlawful actors or separatist entities to replicate similar parallel arrangements, all of which posed

a grave threat to national security.

The plaintiff wants the court to declare the purported “shadow government” or “’shadow cabinet” being planned by Utomi and his associates as “unconstitutional and amounts to an attempt to create a parallel authority not recognised by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended)”.

The DSS is also seeking a declaration that “under Sections 1(1), 1(2) and 14(2)(a) of the constitution, the establishment or operation of any governmental authority or structure outside the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended). is unconstitutional, null, and void”.

The plaintiff wants the court to issue an order of perpetual

Alleged Corruption: Protesters Demand Kyari’s Deportation from UAE

Alex

Some young Nigerians on Wednesday stormed the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Embassy in Abuja, demanding deportation of the immediate past Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, to continue the ongoing probe over alleged corruption and sabotage.

The protesters under the platform of Young Professionals Forum (YPF), claimed that Kyari’s alleged corrupt

practices have had far-reaching implications for the economy and energy sector.

According to them, Kyari’s tenure was marked by deliberate obstruction of local refining initiatives, blatant disregard for national interests, and personal enrichment.

One of the leaders of the group, Sambari Benjamin claimed that Kyari’s actions have crippled national productivity, drained Nigeria’s foreign exchange reserves, and increased the vulnerability of consumers to adulterated petroleum

products.

They therefore called on the UAE government to refuse Kyari residency, asylum and to blacklist him to prevent his escape from justice.

“We believe that Mele Kyari’s actions have brought shame to our nation and our people. His alleged corrupt practices have had devastating consequences for our economy and our people. We cannot stand idly by while those in positions of authority abuse their power for personal gain.

injunction, restraining Utomi, his agents and associates “from further taking any steps towards the establishment or operation of a ‘shadow government,’ ‘shadow cabinet’ or any similar entity not recognised by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended)”.

Among the grounds on which the plaintiff is hinging its prayers includes that Section 1(1) of the constitution declares its supremacy and binding force on all persons and authorities in Nigeria.

The recovery came following a final forfeiture order granted by Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the Federal Capital Territory High, FCT, Court, Abuja, on December 2, 2024.

The minister described the recovery as unprecedented. “I have to seriously commend the stewardship of the Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, on this outstanding recovery.

“As you can all see, this is the biggest recovery of its kind in the history of this country, 753 housing units recovered within just about a year of his appointment. Many more recoveries are ongoing, and we assure Nigerians that we will see more of such results. Nigerians will be better for it,” he said.

He further urged the public to support the EFCC in its mission to cleanse the country of economic and financial crimes. “Nigerians should continue to trust in the efforts of the EFCC Chairman.

“I believe his drive stems from the goodwill of Mr. President, who has given him the mandate and the leverage to perform and he is utilising it very well. Nigerians should have confidence in the EFCC and the capable leadership of Mr. Olukoyede in achieving a corruption-free nation,” he added.

Speaking at the event, the EFCC Chairman, Olukoyede, clarified that what Nigerians had previously seen

on television was merely an aerial view of the estate. “The essence of this visit is to show that it is real,” he said.

Olukoyede reiterated the commission’s commitment to transparency and accountability in the management of recovered assets. He explained that the visit was a follow-up to the handover of the estate to the federal government through the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development.

“This inspection follows our meeting with the Honourable Minister yesterday (Tuesday) regarding the handover of this recovered property. We wanted Nigerians to see firsthand the impact of the anti-corruption fight. We’ve walked for over an hour, yet we haven’t exhausted the estate. This shows the enormity of what has been recovered,” the EFCC boss said.

He noted that although 753 units were initially declared, the number might increase after remodeling and valuation. “The figures we gave were based on architectural drawings and preliminary assessments. After remodelling, we may discover even more units. But what’s most important is that this property now belongs to the federal government and will be put to good use.”

Olukoyede emphasised that the recovery was a tangible result of the president’s agenda, which prioritises the use of anti-corruption tools to drive economic development.

Aviation: BAG Adopts $1 Passengers’ Safety Charge on Int’l Commercial Departing Flights

Implementation scheduled to commence 1 January 2026

The seven-member states of Banjul Accord Group (BAG), yesterday adopted the proposed one ($1) United States Dollar Passenger Safety Charge (PSC) on international commercial departing flights as a sustainable funding mechanism for BAG, BAGASOO, and BAGAIA.

BAG hinted that while economic integration and trade facilitation are essential for the development of BAG-member states and the region, it also agreed that on full implementation of the PSC, member states’ contributions would be phased out.

The PSC implementation, it added is scheduled to commence on 1 Janu-

ary 2026, with full implementation expected by 2030, allowing time for the necessary amendments to national legislation.

BAG, in its plenary at the closing ceremony of its 18th Plenary and Meeting of the Council of Ministers in Abuja, acknowledged the report and expressed appreciation for the continued support in advancing the course of civil aviation in the region.

The report by BAG Secretariat which provides a comprehensive summary of the discussions and resolutions, noted the increase in the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) funding from Five Million Euros (€ 5,000,000.00) to Ten Million Euros (€10,000,000.00) and agreed to continue to utilise the

support from EASA. Full operationalisation of the BAG Multilateral Air Services Agreement (MASA) was recommended to transform the region into a single domestic airspace, facilitating unrestricted market access.

Speaking on the PSC, the Director-General, Civil Aviation, Nigeria, Capt. Chris Najomo said the proposal if accepted by the various countries government will also help drive implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and the Yamoussoukro Decision (YD). He added with improved connectivity within Africa; air ticket prices would reduce significantly as well as travel time.

Enumah in Abuja

Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

Alex Enumah in Abuja

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

55Th annual gEnEral mEETing Of nEm

insurancE...

L-R: Director, NEM Insurance Plc,Mr. Kelechi Okoro; Director, Daphne Oterie Dafinone; Director, Abisola Giwa Osagie; Managing Director/CEO, NEM Insurance Plc, Mr. Andrew

Smart; Director, Joy Teluwo; Director, Yakasai Ahmed, and Company Secretary/Legal Adviser, Ifunanya Iwuagwu, during the 55th annual general meeting of

Group Chairman, Mr.

Insurance Plc held in Lagos ... recently

UTME: Oloyede Flays Calls for Resignation, Says ‘Truck Pushers Cannot Direct Pilots’

Observes minute silence for candidate who died by suicide To conduct another mop-up exam for absent candidates

Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Professor Ishaq Oloyede, has rejected demands by critics for his resignation following challenges during the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

Speaking yesterday during a meeting with key stakeholders, including chief external examiners and civil society organisations, in Abuja, Oloyede dismissed the calls for his resignation, stating that those criticising his leadership lack the competence to question his stewardship.

“Truck pushers cannot direct pilots,” he said, in reference to critics whom he believed were unqualified to advise on matters of education.

In a related development, JAMB announced it will conduct another mop-up examination for candidates who missed their just-concluded Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

Oloyede acknowledged the emotional strain experienced while announcing the UTME results but clarified that it was not indicative of institutional weakness. He stressed that JAMB remained committed to resolving issues affecting the examination process. He also rejected any suggestion that administrative failures were due to incompetence or ethnic bias.

Oloyede stated, “JAMB will conduct a special mop-up examination for candidates who missed the 2025 UTME for genuine reasons, covering approximately 5.6 per

cent of total candidates.

“We are creating a new mopup. Even those who missed the earlier exam due to absence will be given another opportunity. It’s not extraordinary. In any academic setting, makeup exams are normal.”

Oloyede’s remarks followed demands for his resignation, particularly from the South-east Caucus of the House of Representatives, following controversies that trailed this year’s UTME.

He emphasised that JAMB was committed to inclusiveness and fairness in the exam process and reassured stakeholders that the mop-up will ensure no candidate was unjustly left out.

He said, “People say, ‘Where is he from?’ That never mattered to me. I’ve worked with people based on their competence, not their ethnicity. The idea that this is a conspiracy is baseless.”

He added that many public reactions were fuelled by ignorance and misinformation, calling on stakeholders and the media to stop politicising educational issues.

Oloyede also reminded the public that UTME was a placement test, not a measure of intelligence.

“UTME ranks candidates for available spaces in tertiary institutions. It is not the final measure of a student’s intelligence or future,” he said.

He stressed that university admissions took into account multiple criteria, including post-UTME scores and institutional assessments.

The registrar spoke emotionally about the suicide of a 19-year-old candidate, Opesusi Timilehin, over

low UTME scores and called for a minute of silence in her honour during the meeting.

“That tragedy broke all of us. Unfortunately, there were also false reports – some parents called me pretending their children had died, only to ask for money later,” Oloyede claimed. He revealed he initially considered resigning over the incident but was persuaded to stay the course by those who believed the candidates needed his continued leadership.

Oloyede explained, “When this happened, my first reaction was to resign. But people advised me that the students will never

forgive you – it would appear as though you abandoned them in their moment of need.”

While many expected the results of the rescheduled UTME to be released on Wednesday, Oloyede was silent on the issue during the meeting.

However, JAMB spokesperson Dr. Fabian Benjamin, assured that the results will be released shortly via an official press statement.

Oloyede concluded the session by expressing gratitude to stakeholders and reaffirming his commitment to accountability, transparency, and fairness in the conduct of JAMB’s duties.

“Let us not descend to the level of opportunists exploiting challenges for personal or political gain. We will fix what went wrong and continue to build an examination system Nigeria can be proud of,” he said.

The JAMB registrar added, “But when things started happening and people are saying, ‘Which one is you?’ which is unfortunate because you need not look at where you come from. But I never knew, because I knew him as a human being who was performing his services. So please, let us not descend to the level of those people who are out there.

“I say it for the fourth time that no conspiracy theory is relevant to this case. There is nothing to say north, south, or that you buy more outside. Something happened like people who have been doing something well for years and something just went wrong. I did not throw them under the bus. No.”

He further urged stakeholders to stop ethnic profiling of education and criticised those who exploit difficulties to promote ethnic or conspiracy-driven narratives. He asserted that many criticisms of JAMB’s operations were rooted in ignorance.

NAAT Threatens Trade Dispute with FG Over Sharing of N50bn

Demands reversal

National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) said it had resolved to declare a trade dispute with Federal Ministry of Education and National Universities Commission (NUC) over issues bordering on the welfare of its members with regard to sharing of the recently released N50 billion earmarked for payment of Earned Allowances.

NAAT said it was concerned that its members were yet to receive

payment of seven months’ arrears of Occupational Hazard Allowance and others.

According to NAAT, the sharing method adopted by the education ministry and NUC allocated 80 per cent of the N50 billion to members of Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and 20 per cent to members of NAAT, Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU), and Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU).

A statement signed by NAAT President, Comrade Ibeji Nwokoma, said, “Arising from an emergency virtual meeting of the National Executive Council (NEC) it held on Wednesday, NAAT rejected what it described as unfair and unjust shar-

ing formula adopted by the Federal Ministry of Education on the N50 billion Earmarked for Payment of Earned Allowances.”

Furthermore, NAAT said it will demand immediate commencement of processes by the ministry for the release of a separate N50b to take care of Earned Allowances of NAAT members as contained in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) of August 17, 2022 signed between Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) and NAAT, since the Federal Ministry of Education decided to allocate the recently released funds to ASUU members.

The statement said, “NAAT resolved to declare a trade dispute with Federal Ministry of Education

and National Universities Commission on issues bordering on welfare of our members on the sharing formula of the recently released N50 billion earmarked for payment of Earned Allowances and the payment of seven (7) month arrears of Occupational Hazard Allowance and others.

“The practice where public officers promote uneven and lopsided allocation of funds meant for payment of Earned Allowances to all categories of university staff leaves much to be desired.

“NAAT condemns such actions in its entirety and calls for its immediate reversal in the interest of industrial peace and harmonious working relationship between various stakeholders in the system.”

sunday aborisade in Abuja

A coalition of gender equality advocates, Nigeria Women in Leadership (WIL) Cohort, has called on Nigeria’s private sector and labour policymakers to take urgent, measurable action to end the systemic exclusion of women from formal employment.

The demand followed new data from the Women in the Workplace 2024 report published by McKinsey & Company, showing that women held just one in three entry-level roles in Nigeria’s private sector.

The statement said the data painted a sober picture of the challenges facing Nigerian women in formal employment.

It read, “While women make up nearly half of the country’s labour force, their representation in private sector jobs remains low, dropping even further as they move up the ladder.

“In the finance sector, women’s representation drops by 19 percentage points between entry-level and executive roles.

“This report speaks to what many Nigerian women already know. The real problem starts from the entry-level hiring process.”

The coalition, in a statement in Abuja yesterday, signed by HannatuFavour Asheolge, said an analysed gender representation data from 65 companies in Nigeria, Kenya, and India by McKinsey found that in Nigeria, women held only 33 per cent of entry-level private sector jobs, despite being nearly half the workforce.

The statement quoted Executive Director of Women in Management and Business and Public Service (WIMBIZ), Omowunmi Akingbohungbe, as lamenting the development.

Akingbohungbe stated, “If we are serious about growth, we need to build systems that ensure women get equal opportunity from the start and the relevant support to help them rise.

“Companies that fail to harness the full talent pool are holding themselves back. Civil society advocates are calling on Nigerian companies to take bold, measurable action on workplace gender equity starting with gender-equal entry-level hiring targets and report on the progress publicly.

Senate Summons

sunday aborisade in Abuja

The senate, yesterday, summoned National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to provide explanations over the increasing use of harmful chemicals by fruit sellers to induce artificial ripening of fruits across the country.

The senate resolution followed a motion sponsored by Senator Anthony Ani, titled, “Urgent need to investigate and halt the continuous unwholesome practice of chemical

ripening of fruits in Nigeria.”

While leading the debate on his motion, Ani said ripening of fruits was a natural physiological process that enhanced sweetness, taste, nutrition.

However, he lamented, “What we are seeing today is a dangerous shift towards the use of harmful chemicals in a bid to make fruits look more attractive and ripen faster.”

He explained that while some fruit sellers used relatively safe substances, like ethylene and methyl jasmonate, many others relied on

cheaper, hazardous alternatives, such as calcium carbide, ethylene glycol, and ethephon.

Ani said the substances contained impurities, including arsenic and lead.

“Experts and regulatory agencies have warned that these chemicals can cause serious health problems, such as cancer, kidney and liver failure, neurological disorders, and even death,” Ani said.

The senator expressed sadness that the practice was on the rise in Nigeria.

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

Ikekhua;

Tope

NEM

2025 World FM day celebration...

L-R: Past President, International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Nigeria Chapter, Mr. Stephen Ola Jagun; Managing Director/CEO, Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin; Dean, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, University of Lagos (UNILAG), Prof. Modupe Omirin; Chief Operating Officer, Berger Paints Nigeria Plc, Mr. Celestine Aruoture; President, IFMA Nigeria, Mr. Sheriff Daramola; and Group CEO, Reliance Infosystems, Olayemi Popoola, during the 2025 World FM Day celebration held at the University of Lagos ... recently

Like Zelenskyy, Trump Ambushes S’African President in White House Meeting

Accuses him of killing whites, taking their land

emmanuel addeh in Abuja

Reminiscent of a recent heated encounter with the Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the US President, Donald Trump, yesterday ambushed South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa, during a White House meeting accusing him of a “genocide” of white people in the African country.

The US president, who was hosting Ramaphosa in the Oval Office, said the footage showed the graves of more than a thousand white farmers. “It’s a terrible sight... I’ve never seen anything like it. Those people are all killed,” Trump said.

The lights were later dimmed in the Oval Office as the videos of the alleged killings were shown, including of South African officials allegedly calling for violence against

white farmers, a Sky News report said.

But later, as he left after around three hours at the White House, Ramaphosa insisted his meeting with Trump went “very well”. The White House’s official account on X posted the footage that was shown in the Oval Office, saying it was “proof of persecution in South Africa”.

South Africa has rejected the allegation that white people are disproportionately targeted by crime. The clips included one of a communist politician playing a controversial anti-apartheid song that includes lyrics about killing a farmer.

Trump accused South Africa of failing to address the killing of white farmers. “People are fleeing South Africa for their own safety,” the US president said. “Their land is being

confiscated and in many cases they’re being killed,” he added.

The US president then displayed printed copies of news articles that he said showed white South Africans who had been killed, saying “death, death” as he flipped through them. He added in one article: “Here’s burial sites all over the place, these are all white farmers that are being buried.”

But Ramaphosa pushed back against Trump’s accusations, by responding: “What you saw, the speeches that were being made, that is not government policy. We have a multi-party democracy in South Africa that allows people to express themselves, political parties to adhere to various policies.

“And in many cases, or in some cases, those policies do not go along with government policy.

Our government policy is completely, completely against what he (a person in the video montage) was saying, even in the parliament. And they are a small minority party which is allowed to exist in terms of our constitution.”

As the yells of anguish and violent rhetoric echoed in the Oval Office, President Ramaphosa craned his neck with a stern expression to watch the “evidence” of a repeatedly disproven “white genocide” in his country. He interjected only to question the location of the videos - to which Mr Trump replied, almost with a “duh” tone of voice, “South Africa” - and then pushed on to direct his team to verify them.

That was the singular point of outright defiance from South Africa’s leader in an uncomfortable meeting where facts were dismissed as a

Youths Block Highway in Edo, Protest

Kidnappings, Poor infrastructure

Hundreds of youths on Wednesday blocked the Auchi-Igarra-Ibillo road, protesting the dilapidated state of the road which has resulted in a high rate of kidnapping and poor infrastructure in the entire local government area.

The protesting youths also complained that kidnapping had become a daily occurrence because of the bad roads and lack of adequate infrastructure, lambasting political office holders from the area who they said were not sensitive to the plights of the people.

The protest created gridlock on

the road as travelers including heavy duty vehicles along the road were stalled for several hours.

They also lamented the case of a chieftain of the Labour Party (LP), Okasime Olowojoba, who has been kidnapped for almost a month and is yet to be released despite the kidnappers have already collected over N5 million from the family and friends.

One of the protesters, Paul Lawani, lamented that “We cannot continue to be slaves in our country, the government should come and tell us what they are doing.

“Akoko-Edo Local Government Area has three general hospitals and

none is functioning well; what is clear is that our colonial government knew the large size of Akoko-Edo.

That is it why sited three general hospitals. Today, Akoko-Edo is ripe for a military base, yet we have these bases in areas that may not necessarily need them.

“Is the local government chairman not aware that there is this security challenge before he was given the job? Are they not aware that one of the reasons for this kidnapping is because of this bad road? Instead of fixing the road, they are mounting Tinubu for 2027.

“We also want the state government to come and tell us what they

want to do about this road and kidnapping.

“One of our brothers has been with the kidnappers for almost one month, they have collected money in millions; they are yet to release him.”

The protesters also accused the security agents posted to the area to check insecurity of not taking their job in the area seriously and vowed to continue the protest until the state government attends to them.

It took the Otaru of Igarra, HRH, Oba Adehce Saiki, who sent emissaries to the protesters to open the road for traffic as he had also written to the state government on the poor state of the road and level of kidnappings.

NCF: Nigeria’s Mangrove Under Severe Threat

blessing ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) has raised the alarm over continuous threat to the country’s mangroves, emphasising the need for a sustainable approach to conserving it.

Speaking at a one-day stakeholder engagement on Mangrove Governance in Nigeria’s Niger Delta, held in Port Harcourt, the Director-General of NCF, Dr. Joseph Onoja, highlighted the importance of sustainable harvesting of mangroves as one of the ways of conserving the ecosystem.

Represented by the Director, Technical Programme, NCF, Adedamola

Ogunsesan, the DG noted that Nigeria’s mangroves are moving from third to fourth position globally due to degradation, resulting in loss of ecosystem services such as fishing, coastal protection, and medicinal value. He emphasised that unsustainable harvesting, pollution and other illegal activities in the creeks constitutes threats to the mangroves and ecosystem. “If people cut a tree and remove it from the root, it does not re-germinate. But if you cut it in a way that it can regrow, that means you are sustainably harvesting it,” Onoja said through his representative.

The event, themed “Restoring and

Managing Nigeria’s Mangrove for Environmental and Social Justice,” aimed to promote sustainable management of mangroves.

The NCF boss stressed that protecting mangroves is crucial not only for environmental reasons but also for the people who depend on them for their livelihoods.

“It’s not just important that we just protect them, it’s important because of the ecosystem services that they provide and as time goes on, it becomes an issue for not just the environment but for the people and can lead to insecurity, both in terms of food insecurity and physical

insecurity for the people living in those areas,” he said.

Onoja, however, stated that the challenge facing mangrove conservation is multifaceted, ranging from oil pollution to unsustainable harvest and climate change.

He noted that some mangrove pollution comes from failed infrastructure, while some demand for mangrove usage comes from urban areas, pointing out that environmental justice is also critical in mangrove conservation, ensuring that the benefits of mangroves are equitably distributed and accessible to vulnerable groups, including women and youth.

difference in opinion and outdated videos were played as breaking news, the Sky News report added.

For the rest of the meeting, Nelson Mandela’s former chief negotiator kept calm and played the charm offensive - appealing to Trump’s ego at every sharp turn while maintaining that black South Africans are disproportionately impacted by the country’s harrowing murder rate.

The charm and calm may seem like dull knives in this sword fight but are necessary for peacekeeping in a meeting where £6 billion in trade hangs in the balance. South Africa has the most to lose in the deteriorating bilateral relations, the report said. In just five months, the Trump administration has cut off vital humanitarian aid, including HIV assistance of which South Africa is the biggest beneficiary; expelled South Africa’s ambassador; and offered white South Africans refugee status as millions of black Africans suffer across the continent. The South African leader said there was crime in his country, and the majority of victims were black. But Trump cut him off and said: “The farmers are not black.” The South African president responded: “These are concerns we are willing to talk to you about.”

Lagos Creates Criminal Information System (LCIS)

74962 cases recorded in 7 years

Segun James

The Lagos State Government has said with the introduction of the Lagos Criminal Information System (LCIS), a total of 74,962 cases/inmates were recorded in the state between 2018 and May, 2025.

This was disclosed by the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN), who gave the statistics at the ongoing ministerial press briefing to mark the second year of the second term of the governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, at Alausa, Ikeja.

He also disclosed that the top three crime locations in the state between January, 2024-May, 2025, are Ikeja, Lagos Island and Lekki.

Pedro lamented that the custodial facilities in Lagos are 106% above the built capacity.

Pedro said: “Lagos Criminal Information System (LCIS) is a major initiative and achievement of the Ministry of Justice. The LCIS was created and has been perfected as a platform to automate the processes

“In order to increase efficiency in the criminal justice system in the state we have leveraged technology and new initiatives in the Ministry of Justice notwithstanding the challenges presented by other agencies involved in the criminal justice system.

“We aim to integrate technology into crime prevention, investigation, and trial, including the creation of virtual rooms within the Ministry of Justice to protect witnesses and reduce costs.

“The LCIS was created and has been perfected as a platform to

automate the processes and procedure within the Criminal Justice System in Lagos State.

“The system is a databank of all criminal cases pending in Magistrates and High courts in Lagos State where the defendant is custody in any of the correctional centres in Lagos State or granted bail by the court.

“In other words, we detail record of all Defendants in custody awaiting trial and those already convicted including their biometric, physical, personal picture and offence charged with.

“It is a crime data register that serves as a repository of data of persons who have been in contact with the Criminal Justice System in the State through the courts (excluding police stations).”

He gave a rundown of the recorded criminal cases; from the LCIS, the combined population in the Custodial facilities was 9,096 as at May, 2025

“As at May, 2025, the custodial facilities in Lagos are 106% above the built capacity.

“The system recorded a total of 74,962 cases/inmates between 2018 and May, 2025

“Over 10,000 suspects/cases were processed through between January, 2024-May, 2025

“64% of conviction reported between January 2024-May, 2025 are plea bargain convictions.

“Top three crime locations in Lagos State between January, 2024-May, 2025 are Ikeja, Lagos Island and Lekki.

“The records show that more suspects of Ogun and Oyo origin have been processed through the system more than any other states.”

adibe emenyonu in Benin City

BETWEEN LIFE SCIENCES TEACHING, RESEARCH AND REAL LIFE APPLICATION...

L-R: Deputy Director General, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Prof. Rosemary Audu; Professor of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Prof. Sunday Omilabu; CEO, Katchey Group, Dr. Kate Isa; Co-founder and CEO, Marcelle Ruth

Tinubu: We’ll Transform Nigeria’s Economy Leveraging Local Means, Decentralised Devt

Says food security, regional inclusion key to nation’s stability Declares every region has role to play in national devt Lauds Taraba’s agricultural potential as proof of Nigeria’s shared prosperity

President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, assured Nigerians that his administration would transform the economy using a bottom-up approach, leveraging local resources and decentralising development.

Tinubu also identified food security, along with regional economic inclusion, as the main determinant of Nigeria’s long-term stability.

He announced plans to, through his Renewed Hope Agenda, transform Taraba State into an important centre for agricultural productivity, energy generation, and mineral resource development.

Tinubu spoke in Jalingo yesterday at the opening of Taraba International Investment Summit 2025.

He described the state as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s agricultural and industrial future, saying its agricultural potential is a manifestation of the country’s shared prosperity.

trillion earmarked for manufacturers under the Stabilisation Plan to support industries struggling under current financial pressures.

It also called on the CBN to facilitate significant increase in the capital base of the Bank of Industry (BOI) to scale up its capacity to meet the sector’s growing credit demands, adding that the CBN should, “settle the outstanding $2.4 billion Forex Forward Contracts to restore manufacturers’ confidence and end the unprecedented decapitation of the financial viability of the affected industries, which will also improve access to non-locally available raw materials.”

MAN also demanded that the CBN should facilitate a policy direction that would peg the customs duty exchange rate for importing industrial inputs, especially raw materials and machinery, to prevent further inflationary pass-through effect.

“Industrial confidence is a fragile currency and once broken, it takes time to rebuild. Nigeria cannot afford to lose its manufacturing momentum at a time when the world is repositioning for the next wave of industrial transformation.

“The commendable reform measures of this administration may not be helped by the persistent high cost and constrained access to funds.

“The current monetary policy is not only undermining manufacturers’ confidence but also jeopardising national economic resilience.

“We urge the central bank to act decisively and in synergy with the

by Vice

Tinubu said, “Food sufficiency is the first currency of national stability. This is why we have prioritised agriculture as the anchor of our national strategy.”

He praised Taraba’s vast agricultural assets, and called for a shift from subsistence farming to industrial-scale food

“Ourproduction. farmers must transition from the use of hoes and cutlasses to tractors and harvesters,” he said, stressing that modern tools are vital for increasing productivity and feeding Nigeria’s growing population.

The president stated that Taraba was not just a state with potential, but also a strategic player in the national economy. He described the state as a major player in the production of export-grade tea, coffee, and livestock for the meat industry.

Tinubu stated, “Taraba’s role in this vision is central. From the export-grade tea and coffee grown on its hills to the livestock raised here that feed the

fiscal authority to ensure that Nigeria’s manufacturing sector does not sink deeper into stagnation. The time to act is now,” Ajayi-Kadir said.

Reacting to Tuesday’s decisions of the MPC, the Director General of the LCCI, Dr. Chinyere Almona, said the current MPR level remained prohibitively high for private sector development.

Almona said: “MSMEs, the engine of job creation and productivity in Nigeria, are being squeezed by the high cost of credit.

“Without affordable financing, their capacity to grow, compete, and contribute to economic development is severely limited.”

Similarly, NECA expressed concern over the CBN’s continued reliance on monetary policy tightening.

Speaking on the MPC outcome, the Director-General of NECA, Mr. Adewale Smatt Oyerinde, said: “The decision to retain the MPR, CRR and other policy instruments highlight the CBN’s intention to control inflation.

“However, monetary tightening, in isolation of other critical considerations cannot deliver the comprehensive economic stability the country urgently needs.”

Oyerinde added that businesses have continued to suffer under the weight of exorbitant borrowing costs, even when other economies are progressively reducing the cost of borrowing to stimulate growth.

He noted that while headline inflation figures offer a glimmer of hope, they mask the more deeprooted structural challenges facing

nation’s meat industry, this state is an agricultural powerhouse that must be fully harnessed.

“The Kashimbila Dam, Nigeria’s largest hydroelectric dam, is not merely a monument of engineering. It is a symbol of what is possible when we dream and deliver,” he said.

The president, however, warned that Nigeria’s development goals would not be met by merely exporting raw commodities.

“We cannot live on raw produce and unprocessed minerals. What we need are factories to add value, clusters to drive innovation, and industrial parks to convert ideas into impact.”

He stressed that every region of Nigeria had a role to play in national prosperity, saying each part of Nigeria is a gift to the other.

The president said each region “complements the other so profoundly that the deficiency of one region is often redeemed by the sufficiency of the other.

“Our ultimate awakening as a

the Nigerian economy.

“The marginal drop in inflation must not obscure the deeper structural constraints, particularly in food production and energy supply.

“The cost of doing business remains alarmingly high, and without urgent reforms, the productive sector will continue to struggle,” Oyerinde added.

NECA reiterated the urgent need for a coordinated policy response that goes beyond rate adjustments.

It said strategic fiscal interventions, such as increased investments in transport infrastructure, power supply, and agricultural value chains would reduce production costs and ease inflationary pressures from supply side.

“The government must act decisively to secure farming communities, improve access to quality agricultural inputs and mechanisation, and address logistics bottlenecks.

“These steps are essential to improving supply-side resilience and unlocking productivity,” he added.

“The association emphasised that with over 80 percent of Nigeria’s labour force engaged in the informal and agrarian sectors, neglecting the structural side of inflation only exacerbates existing inequalities and stunts inclusive growth,” NECA said.

NECA added that, “a holistic and inclusive approach is necessary, one that stimulates investment, fosters job creation, and ensures that the fight against inflation does not inadvertently become a brake on development.”

nation begins with this realisation that no part of this country can thrive in isolation. What Taraba offers the nation is more than its breathtaking mountains or fertile valleys; it is a strategic contribution to our shared prosperity.”

He commended Governor Agbu Kefas for his visionary leadership, which he demonstrated by convening the summit. Tinubu said, “There’s no doubt that you have chosen to reshape the destiny of your people.

This is a defining moment for Taraba.

“We are determined to ensure that investment does not remain a

of Lagos and Abuja alone. We are expanding the map of economic inclusion to include Jalingo, Gembu, Takum, Wukari, Bali, and every enterprising corner of Taraba.”

Tinubu further assured the people that the federal government was not a distant observer, but a committed partner in transforming the state’s economic potential into measurable growth.

As the global demand for clean energy minerals, like lithium and cobalt accelerates, Tinubu called on investors to take a long-term view of Taraba’s role in the future of sustainable

and Governor of Kwara State, Abduraheem Abdulrazak, pledged the cooperation of the sub-nationals in developing agriculture in Nigeria.

Obi Decries Relentless Scene of Corruption

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has decried what he termed the relentless scene of corruption that Nigeria has become.

Obi’s comments were in reaction to the N7 trillion budget fraud uncovered by BudgIT in the 2025 federal budget.

Writing on his X handle, Obi said, “I have consistently maintained that for this country to make progress, Nigeria must cease to function as a crime scene and be repositioned for genuine development.

“This entrenched corruption –persistent and deeply rooted – must be nipped in the bud if there is to be any meaningful turnaround.

“How else can we explain the

Nigerian Content participation in building of the Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) as another mark of local content drive by the company.

“During our OML 58 upgrade, which was to upgrade the entire OML58 field, including the Ikike gas plant to make it more efficient, we achieved 90 per cent local participation, and then, the same thing with our Ofon phase 2 project.

“Ofon phase 2 project involved a lot of Nigerians. So, TotalEnergies has been doing this for years. What it means is that Nigerian contractors, Nigerian subcontractors, fabricators, consultants, trainers, capacity builders were all involved in the process.

“Now, coming to Ubeta project. We had FID on Ubeta project in 2024 at a time when the environment was looking bleak. But as we speak today, Ubeta project is on course and Nigerian contractors are doing the job”, he explained.

distressing revelations by BudgIT, which uncovered a staggering N7 trillion in questionable projects inserted into the 2025 national budget? I am convinced that this figure represents only a fraction of the actual amount misappropriated.”

Obi said, “These findings are deeply troubling and confirm my long-held position that we have turned our country into a crime scene.

“We must urgently and aggressively combat corruption, misappropriation, and fiscal recklessness to manage our resources effectively and efficiently, and invest in critical areas of development: health, education, and lifting our people out of poverty.

“The N7 trillion uncovered as fraudulently inserted into the 2025 budget is even greater than the

He said the project involves building a pipeline to take gas to the company’s gas processing plant, where it will be processed and supplied to the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited (NLNG) to meet the Train 7 target. According to him, TotalEnergies expects to start up the work in 2027.

Ojum also mentioned TotalEnergies’ $750 million Ima project as another major project that holds large local content opportunities for indigenous companies.

“Ima project is a shallow water gas development project, about 20 kilometres from the Bonny oil and gas terminal.

“The budget is about $750 million and the objective is also towards keying behind Nigeria’s objective of empowering and expanding the NLNG facilities.

“So, the gas is going to NLNG. And TotalEnergies is going to partner with local people to bring this project

combined allocations to the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, and the Ministry of Agriculture – ministries that are fundamental to national development.”

The former governor of Anambra State explained, “The Ministry of Education was allocated N3.52 trillion. The Ministry of Health received N2.48 trillion. The Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation was allocated N260 billion, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security received N636.08 billion.

“Combined, these four ministries were allocated N6.896 trillion—an already inflated amount—yet still less than the N7 trillion dubiously inserted into the budget.

to pass. The project is in the process,” he stated.

Equally, he listed the Ntokon project, an offshore field in located OML I02, Southeast Port Harcourt and about 60 kilometres and 60 meters water depth.

Ojum added, “So this Ntokon project is almost like the Ima project. It’s also at the same stage right now. We are working on the various processes for the project to have FID. The company is very optimistic with the support of NCDMB, NUPRC, the federal government that this project will definitely see the light of the day.

“So, what is in these projects for the Nigerian contractors? We have engineering and design, we have fabrication, construction, transport and installation, marine services and logistics, security, catering, administration, training for human capacity development, consulting, Research and innovation,” he added.

Deji Elumoye in Abuja and Wole Ayodele in Jalingo

Represented

President Kashim Shettima,

tale

technology. Earlier, Kefas said with the summit, life had come to Taraba. He assured investors that the state was peaceful and safe for business, with huge human and natural resources, saying he has created an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

Speaking on behalf of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), Governor Mohammed Bago of Niger State, who represented the chairman of the forum

Cancer Centre, Dr. Modupe Elebute-Odunsi; and Assistant General Manager, Business Support, Katchey Group, Mrs. Ebube Anowai, at a seminar on Bridging the Gap Between Life Sciences Teaching, Research and Real Life Application held in Lagos, yesterday

PHOTO: SUNDAY ADIGUN

27.5% MPR: MAN, LCCI, NECA L AMENT P R o HI

CORPORaTE sOCiaL REsPONsiBiLiTy iN aCTiON…

L-R: Director, Special Operations, BUA Group, Khalifa Abdulsamad Rabiu; Board Chairman, North-West Development Commission (NWDC), Alhaji Lawal Sama’ila Abdullahi, and other dignitaries during the handover of the administrative building donated by BUA Group to the NWDC in Kano…recently

Ikoawaji Calls for Lasting Truce in Rivers’ Political Crisis, Says It’s Not War

Emma Okonji and agnes Ekebuike

As the political turbulence in Rivers State begins to calm down, an elder statesman and veteran politician, Chief Asukewe Ikoawaji, has asserted that the long-running standoff between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, is fundamentally a “political family matter” and not a crisis

involving the broader Rivers populace.

Speaking yesterday on the Morning Show of ARISE News Channel, the broadcast arm of THISDAY Newspaper, Ikoawaji described the conflict as a dispute between two individuals from the same political lineage. “If you follow me very carefully. I have said it time without number that this matter has nothing to do with the Rivers’ people. It is a political

APC Affirms One-China Principle

Michael Olugbode in abuja

The leadership of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has affirmed its unwavering commitment to the one-China principle, recognising Taiwan as an integral part of the People’s Republic of China (PRC).

Speaking in an interview in Abuja on Wednesday, the APC National Vice-Chairman (NorthEast), Comrade Mustapha Salihu, said the party was in full alignment with the federal government’s diplomatic stance.

“Nigeria is unequivocally committed to the One-China

Principle. Consequently, the policies and principles of the APC will mirror those of our federal government in diplomatic matters.

“China is a significant partner for our nation; they regard us as equals rather than a lesser nation. This perspective fosters a relationship of mutual progress. Therefore, it is wise for the government to support the one-China principle.”

Salihu reiterated APC’s firm support for the government’s diplomatic policies, stating that, “As a party, we stand resolutely behind the one-China principle.”

2024: Signature Bank Declares N768.05m Profit

Signature Bank Limited has recovered from a loss before tax of N2.87 billion in 2023 financial year to a profit before tax of N768.05 million in 2024. The lender also declared gross earnings of N12.84 billion in 2024, about 374per cent increase over N2.69 billion reported in 2023, driven by strong performance in both core lending and fee-based income lines.

Signature Bank expanding substantially with total assets more than doubling to N178.9billion

from N61.22 billion in 2023, while customer deposit stood at N130.6billion in 2024, about 233 per cent increase from N39.20 billion in 2023, to reflect increasing confidence in its brand and services.

The acting Chairman, Signature Bank, Alhaji Tijjani Borodo, disclosed these figures while addressing shareholders during the bank’s third annual general meeting (AGM) held virtually. He said: “Our Profit Before Tax (PBT) swung from a loss of N2.86 billion in 2023 to a profit of N768 million.”

Rotary Club of Ewutuntun Donates Wheel Chairs

Rotary Club of Ewutuntun , District 9111 is set to donate wheel chairs to the physically challenged to empower mobility, independence and freedom of movement.

President Rotary Club of Ewutuntun, Bukola Alamu, disclosed that “the wheel of life project initiative is aimed to donate wheel chairs to physically challenged individuals in need to enhance their movement, quality of life and promote inclusivity.”

Alamu added that “the wheel of life initiative supports our commitment to saving vulnerable people, community and fostering sustainable development.”

The Chairman, Wheel of Life Project, Oluwafemi Eldorado Falade revealed that the “ donated wheel chairs will enable beneficiaries to regain mobility and independence, access essential services and opportunities; and participate fully in their communities”.

family problem,” he stated.

He emphasised that both Governor Fubara and Wike emerged from the same dominant

political structure that has governed the state since 1999.

According to Ikoawaji, had both leaders treated the matter

as a private family dispute, there would have been no need for external intervention.

“Because he (Wike) has failed

in treating Fubara like a son, that is why it looks as if there is a problem in Rivers State,” he stated.

Nnamdi Kanu: Court Warns Lawyers against Professional Misconduct

alex Enumah in abuja

Justice James Omotosho of a Federal High Court, Abuja, has warned lawyers involved in the trial of Nnamdi Kanu to desist from acts that could be seen as professional misconduct.

The warning was sequel to complaint and observations

concerning a member of the defence team, Aloy Ejimakor and others, said to be in the habit of posting live streaming of proceedings and court documents on the social media.

Kanu is being tried by the federal government on charges bordering on terrorism and treasonable felony.

At yesterday’s proceedings, lead counsel to the defendant, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, informed the court of a letter from the prosecution, dated May 14, wherein the government expressed concerns about some publications the defence team had made.

Agabi who added that they

had apologised to the prosecution about the publications, clarified that they were not responsible for the publications. Responding, the lead prosecution counsel, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, described as embarrassing what they saw in the press with regard to the trial.

Oyebanji: Ekiti Knowledge Zone, Catalyst for Economic, Industrial Development

Gbenga sodeindeinadoEkiti

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has restated the transformation potential of the Ekiti Knowledge Zone(EKZ), describing it as a project that will redefine the

state’s economic and industrial landscape, create prosperity and drive sustainable development.

Governor Oyebanji stated this yesterday during a meeting with the team from African Development Bank (AfDB) led by the Chief

Development Economist, Ms Rosemond Offei-Awuku and the Federal Ministry of Finance team led by Dr (Mrs) Akande Oyebola who were in the state on a supervisory mission to the Ekiti Knowledge Zone.

Emphasising that the EKZ

is rooted in the intellectual and educational strength of Ekiti people, the Governor said the zone is strategically positioned to attract investment and serve as a hub for knowledge-based enterprise in Nigeria.

LG Poll: ‘Adio’s RISE Plan ‘ll Reduce Unemployment in Etiosa

sunday Okobi

Youth Party (YP) chairmanship candidate in Etiosa Local Government Area of Lagos State, Ayodele Adio, has unveiled an ambitious economic blueprint poised to transform Eti-Osa’s economy and create thousands of new jobs.

The plan, dubbed ‘RISE’ (Recycle, Invest, Strengthen, Empower), represents the most comprehensive economic agenda put forward by any candidate in the upcoming local government elections, targeting Eti-Osa’s most pressing challenges

Cattle Breeders Association Admits

George

Okoh in makurdi

The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association has said open grazing ìs no more sustainable in Benue state, assuring the people that it would embrace initiatives to end the practice and ensure peace in Benue rural communities.

The Benue State Secretary of MACBAN, Ibrahim Galma made the declaration. Galma who assured the state that MACBAN would support the project to achieve its aim of having peace in Benue state, noted that the association had been part of the project from its pilot stage.

while capitalising on its unique advantages.

Speaking to an audience of community leaders, business owners, and residents, Adio detailed the four pillars of his economic vision stating that: “Our RISE plan addresses both immediate economic needs and long-term sustainable growth.” “It’s about creating real opportunities for our people while building an economy that works for everyone.” According to Adio, “The first component will tackle Eti-Osa’s growing waste management crisis while creating a new economic sector.

Difficulties in Open Grazing in Benue

While emphasising the need for collaboration between herders and farmers to achieve the aim of the project Galma said: “The position of MACBAN is that we are fully in support of this project from the beginning and we are going to be in this project to the end.”

He spoke at a one-day

Stakeholders’ Engagement/ Launch of AgroPastoral Integration for Peace and Sustainable Development (AIPASD) Project by GoGreen Environmental Health Sustain-ability Initiatives, convened under the Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria (SPRiNG), programme.

Detained Popular Blogger, Awudumu Reigneth, Regains Freedom in Bayelsa

Olusegun samuel in yenagoa

The Director of pro-Wike new media, the New Associates, Miss Awudumu Reigneth, has regained her freedom after meeting her bail condition.

Reigneth arrest and detention had caused public and media

outcries after she was arrested by the police over ‘’alleged trumped-up charges,” including cyberbullying, purportedly fueled by her right to free speech and expression.

Reacting to her release, the pro-Wike political group, the New Associates in Bayelsa State,

applauded the judiciary for not yielding to intimidation in the case involving its member.

The convener and lead of the New Associates, Georger Turnah, commended the judiciary for demonstrating its strong independence in the face of intimidation.

Turnah, who also the Bayelsa State caretaker committee of the Dan-led faction of the People Democratic Party (PDP), in a statement signed by his media assistant, Kevin Loveday-Egbo, stated that Chief Magistrate Baitmizimo demonstrated exceptional courage.

CCII Backs OYHA on Rotational Chairmanship of Council

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

The umbrella body of all socio-cultural groups in Ibadan, the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), yesterday threw its weight behind the

decision of the Oyo State House of Assembly to retain the rotational clause of the Chairmanship of Council of Obas and Chiefs in the state.

The council also appealed to aggrieved members of the

Assembly that are not happy with the development to allow peace to reign in the state.

The President-General of CCII, Chief Sulaimon Ajewole, who made the declaration while speaking with journalists

of Obas

in Ibadan, equally said the council is working in cohort with a social cultural group of Ibarapa indigenes, Ibarapa Consultative Forum (ICF) to pursue the actualisation of the creation of Ibadan state.

KayodeTokede

Chelle Picks Two Super Eagles Squads for Unity Cup, Russia Friendly

Ahmed Musa stages return as Nigeria, Ghana set to renew 74-year rivalry

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Head Coach, Eric Chelle, has selected rave-of-the-moment in France, Moses Simon, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, midfielder Wilfred Ndidi and forward Ahmed Musa among a total of 25 Super Eagles who will execute this month-end’s Unity Cup Tournament in London.

Chelle, who admitted that “we’re looking forward to taking part in the Unity Cup as it will give us the chance to try out a few new players in different roles, helping us

to strengthen our squad before the matches in September and October,” has included a number of standout Nigeria Premier Football League players in the Unity Cup houseparty.

Junior Harrison Nduka, captain of the CHAN-bound Super Eagles B and of champions Remo Stars, will seek a slot in the defence that also has Semi Ajayi, Bruno Onyemaechi, Igoh Ogbu and fellow home-boys Ifeanyi Onyebuchi, Sodiq Ismaila and Waliu Ojetoye, while Papa Daniel Mustapha, Saviour Isaac and Collins Ugwueze will have to contend with

Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka and Chrisantus Uche in midfield.

At the fore, Ahmed Musa, Adamu Abubakar and Sikiru Alimi are up against Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Cyriel Dessers, Nathan Tella, Tolu Arokodare and Kelechi Iheanacho.

The Unity Cup Tournament, involving Nigeria, Jamaica, Ghana and Trinidad and Tobago, will be staged at the 17,250-capacity Gtech Community Stadium in Brentford, West London.

The tournament will kick off with

the first semi-final on Tuesday, 27th May as Trinidad & Tobago tackle Jamaica in the first-ever ‘Trini-Jam’ on UK soil.

The following day, three-time African champions Nigeria will take on four-time African champions Ghana in the second semi-final, which will come with all the intrigues and variables of a 74-year rivalry between the two continental giants.

All four teams will return on Saturday, 31st May for the grand finale, with the losers of the semi-final fixtures featuring in the third-place

Europa

Spurs End 17 Years Trophy Drought, Beat Red Devils to Claim Champions League Spot

Tottenham ended their 17-year wait for a trophy as Brennan Johnson’s first-half goal was enough to beat Manchester United in the Europa League final.

Victory means under-fire head coach Ange Postecoglou has fulfilled a promise to deliver silverware in his second season at Spurs.

Postecoglou, who said he would “never be a clown” in his pre-match address, brought smiles and unbridled joy to the faces of the 15,000 official, and many unofficial, Tottenham fans in Bilbao’s San Mames Stadium. Victory may not save Postecoglou

from a Spurs exit in the coming weeks. But the Australian will leave as a hero after joining Bill Nicholson and Keith Burkinshaw in winning a European trophy with the north London giants.

In addition to following the lead of Newcastle and Crystal Palace in making this a season of glory for clubs who rarely, if ever, win a trophy, Tottenham are also set to benefit from a £100m windfall after qualifying for next season’s Champions League. As had to happen in a battle

between the two lowest-placed teams ever to contest a European final, for the losers, there was no silver lining.

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim will send his side into the final Premier League game of the season against Aston Villa on Sunday with huge questions over his ability to make them competitive following their worst season since the 1973-74 relegation campaign.

Amorim enjoys the backing of the

ownership but his decision to pick Mason Mount ahead of Alejandro Garnacho in an attacking role did not work. And with skipper Bruno Fernandes unusually subdued, United lacked the guile to drag themselves back into the game once they had fallen behind.

They came close to an equaliser with a Rasmus Hojlund header, following Guglielmo Vicario’s error, that was acrobatically cleared off the line by Micky van de Ven midway through the second half.

Vicario then made a dramatic late save to keep out Luke Shaw’s header.

Aruna, Calderano Set to Renew Rivalry in Doha

The long-standing rivalry between two continental giants—Africa’s Quadri Aruna and South America’s Hugo Calderano—will be reignited at the 2025 ITTF World Championships in Doha.

The two stars are set to clash in the fourth round of the Men’s Singles on Thursday, May 22, at the Lusail Arena.

Aruna and Calderano are widely regarded as modern icons of table tennis in their respective regions.

Their relentless spirit and global achievements have earned them legendary status. Both made history as the first players from Africa

and South America to reach the quarterfinals of the Olympic Games at Rio 2016, and each has claimed multiple continental titles and broken into the world’s top 10 rankings. Currently, Calderano is enjoying the best form of his career. He recently captured the 2025 ITTF World Cup title in Macao, defeating world No. 1 Li Shidong and No. 2 Wang Chuqin of China—becoming the first South American to win the prestigious trophy. Aruna’s path to the fourth round

in Doha has been equally impressive. He opened with a commanding 4-0 win over Calderano’s compatriot Victor Ishiy, followed by a thrilling 4-2 victory against Norwegian lefthander Borgar Haug. In the third round, he continued his fine form by overcoming Germany’s Benedikt Duda 4-2. Calderano, the world No. 3, has also been in top shape. He began with a 4-1 win over Mexico’s Rogelio Castro, then delivered a clinical 4-0 performance against

Tunisia’s Wassim Essid, the 2024 African Youth Champion. However, he faced a stern test in the third round against Kazakhstan’s Kirill Gerassimenko. After falling behind 0-2, Calderano adjusted his tactics and rallied to win 4-2, setting the stage for a blockbuster showdown with Aruna.

Looking ahead to the match, Calderano praised his Nigerian rival: “Aruna is a very strong player. He’s been in the top 10 before, and everyone knows what he’s capable of. I’m ready for a big fight—he’s a fighter too—so it’s going to be very exciting,” he said.

game, before the Final to determine The Unity Cup 2025 champions.

For the friendly with Russia’s senior men team at the Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow on Friday, 6th June, Chelle has picked a total of 21 players, with captain William Ekong,

Dele-Bashiru and Raphael Onyedika, and forwards Victor Boniface and Sadiq Umar joining a number of picks from the Unity Cup cohort.

D’Tigress in Homecoming Abuja Tournament with Kenya, Togo

The Nigerian national senior women’s team, D’Tigress, and the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) are gearing up for what will be one of the best basketball events held in Nigeria.

For the first time, the multiple award-winning D’Tigress will play on the national soil after winning five back-to-back Afrobasket championships spearheaded by Nigerian WNBA Coach, Rena Wakama.

The African champions will take on classy Kenya and high-rising Togo teams in Abuja from July 18 to 20, 2025.

The current team is huge and seen as a bumper-pack Nigerian women’s team with 6 WNBA players as the team prepares to defend the title again.

As a part of the tournament in Nigeria, the players will help run women empowerment programmes in this home-coming rendezvous, even as they hold basketball camps for the up-and-coming stars in Abuja.

The event will be hosted at the prestigious Mo Arena Abuja.

The Chief Executive Officer of El Carnival, Mathew Ohio, was emotional when he spoke about

this star event.

Ohi said: “After putting together a welcome party for D’Tigress in Paris at the Olympic Games, we felt it was necessary to promote and showcase the incredible talents of these wonderful ladies in Nigeria. We are excited to be a part of bringing home the best team in Africa.”

The NBBF’s Chairman of the Sponsorship Committee, Ugo Udezue, said it has always been the desire of the Federation’s President, Musa Kida, and the Board to create a fun atmosphere for the Nigerian fans to meet and greet with the players.

“The NBBF President mandated we make this event possible and bring our D’Tigress back home. This will be an exciting and fun atmosphere with a chance for fans to meet and interact with our players for the first time. We are grateful to our sponsors, and we continue to solicit more to make this event a beautiful one,” Ugo said.

D’Tigress International Tournament brings to the public that Nigeria’s dominance in women’s basketball is a testament to the strength, resilience, and excellence of the country’s female athletes.

Osimhen, Ighalo, Obafemi, AJ, Others for 2nd Edition TroostEkong Foundation Celebrity Match

The Troost Ekong Foundation (TEF) is proud to announce the second edition of its high-impact celebrity charity football match, happening on Sunday, June 22nd, 2025 at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, on Lagos Island.

Under the theme “Play for Purpose,” this landmark event brings together some of Africa’s biggest names in sports and entertainment to raise awareness and generate funds for TEF’s ongoing youth development programs in education, healthcare, and grassroots sports.

Founder and Super Eagles Captain, William Troost-Ekong, shared his mind on the big match: “I’m

super excited to bring this year’s TEF Charity Match to Lagos. We’ve been working hard behind the scenes to put together a great game and show in order to raise funds for the foundation’s planned projects.” Confirmed players and personalities include: Victor Osimhen, Odion Ighalo, Ahmed Musa, Raphael Onyedika, Samuel Chukwueze, Carl Ikeme, Obafemi Martins, Victor Boniface, Anthony Joshua, Stanley Nwabali, Alex Song, Theo Attom. They’ll be joined by stars of culture and comedy like Brodda Shaggi, Odumodublvck, Kelechi AFC, and Gilmore, with more surprise guests expected on the day.

ALL FOR ONE...

fellow defenders Olaoluwa Aina and Bright Osayi-Samuel, midfielders Fisayo

Tottenham Hotspur players and officials celebrating ending their 17-year wait for a major trophy after defeating Manchester United 1-0 in Bilbao to win the

League final last night

Super Eagles captains, Ahmed Musa, William Troost-Ekong and Joseph Yobo all giving their support to Ekong as he uses his foundation to support worthy causes

mERCK FoUnDATion pAYS CoURTESY ViSiT To FiRST LADY...

olusegun AD e NIYI

olusegun.adeniyi@thisdaylive.com

On the Trail of Plateau Killers

My daughter, Ifeoluwa, called on Monday to ask why I was in Jos. I explained that I had been appointed as a member of a fact-finding committee on the incessant attacks on communities in Plateau State and the inauguration was scheduled for the next day. She replied, “you have a way of getting yourself involved in all these strange assignments.” Those words echoed in my mind on Tuesday when, inaugurating the panel, Governor Caleb Mutfwang mandated us “to conduct an in-depth assessment of the persistent security breaches, understand the root causes, and propose actionable recommendations for lasting peace, justice, and stability in affected communities” in Plateau State.

My daughter is right. I don’t know what can be stranger than being asked to proffer solutions to the ethno-religious killings that have claimed thousands of lives over a period of more than three decades. But I am in good company here. Our chairman, Major General Nicholas Rogers (Rtd) had commanded ‘Operation Lafiya Dole’ against Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in the Northeastern part of the country and ‘Operation Safe Haven’ in the same Plateau State. Having also served in the United Nations African Mission in Darfur among other assignments, he understands the nature of the crisis we are facing. Another member, AVM Ibrahim Shafi’i (Rtd), also has extensive experience in such matters given his military service and current legal practice. And then we have Jonathan Kure, a retired deputy Director General of the State Security Service (SSS) who once served in Plateau and Lawan Usman Safana, a retired Assistant Director General and former SSS State Director in Plateau State.

Other members of our panel include Yakubu Bawa, a Jos-based legal practitioner, Esther Lolo, a retired Judge of the Kaduna State High Court, Gad Shamaki, a civil society activist and Amina Elelu-Ahmed, a former Director of Legal Service at the National Orientation Agency (NOA). Our Secretary, Timothy Parlong, a legal practitioner and retired permanent secretary in the state civil service, has institutional memories, having served in some of the previous committees on the never-ending crises. Parlong happens to be the only indigene of Plateau State on our panel, which the governor said he carefully selected to demonstrate transparency on the issue.

By our mandate, we are expected to establish the number of communities that have been attacked and the approximate number of casualties from 2005 to date; establish the identities of persons who perpetrated the attacks and their possible motives and sponsors; and identify possible routes for bandits into the state and recommend measures to limit their access. We are also to recommend appropriate succour to identified victims and communities and suggest how to stop further occurrences. Though we are expected to engage with community leaders, victims, security agencies, and other relevant stakeholders across the state, we have just two months to complete our assignment! Before the defining violence of 2001, the reprisal attacks of 2004 and the subsequent ones in recent years under the current democratic dispensation, there were similar violent eruptions under the military. In 1992, we witnessed the Mwaghavul communal crisis in Mangu local government area which recurred in 1995. In 1994, there was the famous ‘Jos Riot’ and in 1997, there were clashes in Lakushi and Sabon Layi in Langtang local government. The consistent pattern

in all these crises, resulting in the loss of thousands of lives, is that victims appear to wait to plot their revenge. Hence, one cycle of killings inevitably leads to another.

Indeed, the gravity of our assignment hit me last Friday when I was with Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Information. Although he did not discourage me, I could deduce from his comments that attempting to seek enduring peace in Plateau State is an uphill task, to put it mildly. A journalist of repute who served as Minister of Youth and Sports under President Muhammadu Buhari, Dare was born and raised in Jos which his family knew as home. But 16 years ago, in December 2009, Dare lost a number of those family members in a gruesome manner. “My only elder brother was hacked down with knives and machete and left to burn” along with their house, Dare recounted in January 2010, following that bout of violence. A year earlier, “precisely November 2008, my immediate junior sister’s husband was burnt down in his house while trying to escape after helping his family to safety. The 10-bedroom family duplex of my in-laws was razed to the ground,” Dare wrote in his recollection. “Two of my childhood friends were knifed to death in the open streets. The three days of reporting for the Voice of America that I spent in Jos after the November 2008 riots were scary. I saw a war zone with survivors walking around like zombies.”

Like most tragic occurrences across the country, there have been numerous panels of inquiry regarding the killings in Plateau State. Governor Mutfwang said as much on Tuesday both at the official inauguration and our private session that followed. He told us we were carefully chosen to reflect the diversity of Jos which is “mini-Nigeria” – a city in which many foreigners have also settled for decades and call their home. “There have been many inquiries in the past. I can assure you that by the time you do that sitting (a public hearing), every critical stakeholder to your assignment will be present,” the governor assured us. “We want to get to the root of these problems and resolve them.”

From the Bola Ajibola Judicial Commission of Inquiry (2009) to the Niki Tobi Judicial Commission of Inquiry (2002), there have indeed been many reports. But I understand why Mutfwang set 2005 as baseline for our assignment. A similar committee chaired by Mr

Thomas Kagnaan had revisited the violence between 2001 and 2004 with its report submitted in October 2004. According to that report, 53,787 persons, comprising almost 19,000 men, more than 17,000 women and 17,000 children were killed during 32 months of tit-for-tat violence. The committee arrived at the figure after visiting affected communities where survivors listed the relations they had lost in the fighting between rival armed militia groups. No fewer than 280,000 people were forced to flee their homes, according to the report, with at least 25,000 houses razed to the ground and some 1,300 cattle slaughtered. That was 21 years ago, and several (and more violent) battles have been fought since then.

I have written dozens of columns on the violence that has reduced the people of Plateau State to little more than undertakers. My most recent, ‘When Will the Killings End?’ was published last September. In July 2023, barely six weeks after assuming office, President Bola Tinubu confronted this problem after a spate of killings. In a statement, ‘Plateau Killings: We Must Break this Cycle of Violence’, he expressed sadness and grief. “It is most unfortunate that in this orgy of violence, an innocent eight-month-old baby in Farin Lamba community of Vwang District, Jos South Local Government, died in a conflict she knew nothing about”, the president said. “A major consequence of perennial conflict is always the tragic loss of innocent lives.”

I agree with the president, but his administration should offer more than mere preachments that have become the defining response from the federal government over the years. It is also commendable that Mutfwang is determined to end the orgy of violence and bloodletting that has defined the state for decades. But other stakeholders, especially religious and traditional rulers, have larger roles to play. Fortunately, this assignment has given me the opportunity to engage some of them in the weeks ahead. And my message

is this: With each side attempting to eliminate the other through what has become a bilateral genocide, to borrow a phrase coined in Rwanda, they must be prepared to end all appeals to hate and guilt by association.

As we drove to town from the airport on Tuesday, I beheld the luscious vegetation. And I wondered why we tend to waste all the resources bestowed upon our country by mother nature. That feeling came back yesterday morning when I decided on an outdoor walk in very cool weather one only gets to experience outside the shores of Nigeria. “Everybody knows that if you eat vegetables, there’s every likelihood that they came from the Plateau,” Mutfwang said on Tuesday while explaining why peace in his state is good for our country. “This is a state that can contribute significantly to Nigeria’s food security and in many respects, when it comes to farming potatoes, for example, you don’t have anywhere outside the Plateau.”

I am not under any illusion that our panel is guaranteed success considering that there had been so many such attempts in the past. The best approach, as Shafi’i counselled on Tuesday, is for each of us to keep an open mind. And that will be our guiding philosophy in this assignment. Perhaps I should conclude with my take two years ago after another round of what I described as a cycle of multilateral killings.

At the end of the day, all the contending parties in the violence must come to the sober realization that they have only been losing lives, wealth and their peace of mind. Their children are de-socialized due to religious and cultural teachings about the sanctity of life being cheerfully violated. A land that was once renowned as a haven of peace and agricultural productivity now exports only tales of man’s inhumanity to man. I hope that by the end of our assignment we can contribute to changing that narrative for an enduring peace in Plateau State.

Amaechi at 60

Ifirst met Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi at the inauguration of the National Stakeholder Working Group (NWSG) of the Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) by President Olusegun Obasanjo on 16th February 2004. Then Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Amaechi was the representative of Southern Speakers with then Gombe State Speaker representing his Northern colleagues. I had been nominated to represent the Nigerian media in the group chaired by Mrs Oby Ezekwesili. Amaechi has, of course, since progressed in his political career. He served eight years as Governor of Rivers State and eight years as Minister of Transportation under President Muhammadu Buhari. Meanwhile, I have kept reminding him in the last 21 years that a friend with political power and influence is a friend lost. But on a serious note, even his most implacable foes would concede one thing to

what you get. As he therefore clocks 60 next Tuesday, I wish him long life and good health.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State

Amaechi: What you see is

L-R: Mr. Leonard Saika; Chairman, Merck Foundation, Prof. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp; First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu; CeO, Merck Foundation, Dr. Rasha Kelej; Ms Veronica Damaschin; and Mr. Seket Choudhary, during a courtesy visit by the management team of the foundation to the First Lady at the State House, Abuja on Wednesday

Amaechi