TUESDAY 29TH JULY 2025

PoS transactions hit N10.45trn, record 209% increase

www.thisdaylive.com

Tinubu Rewards Each Falcons Player with

Recalls how his wife almost abandoned his dinner due to the tension-soaked match

All 36 governors gift N10m each to players and technical crew

First Lady describes players as role models, shining examples of courage and excellence

Team’s victory symbol of national unity, inspiration, triumph of belief, says Dikko

L-R: Imo State Governor, Mr. Hope Uzodimma; Kwara State Governor, Mr. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq; Super Falcons Assistant Captain, Osinachi Ohale; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu; Captain Rasheedat Ajibade; Wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima; and Chairman, National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, during the reception hosted by President Tinubu for the victorious Super Falcons at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday

Chuks Okocha in Abuja Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has accused President Bola Tinubu of presenting inaccurate

NCDMB Facilitates Creation of Over

50,000 Jobs, 12 million

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

About 15 years after its emergence, the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has boosted the creation of over 50,000 jobs and 12 million training man-hours in the Nigerian Oil and GasThisindustry. was revealed in the book titled, “Local Content: A Journey of Strategic Communication and Economic Transformation”, authored by the General Manager, Corporate Communications, NCDMB, Dr. Obinna Ezeobi.

Ezeobi had in his book, reviewed by Mayor Okoroha, a Public Affairs Analyst and Special Adviser to Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, in Port Harcourt, stated that the impact of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Contact Development (NOGICD) Act of 2010, was enormous in achieving the vision of local content and Nigerian economy growth.

Ezeobi highlights the Act’s transformative effect, noting the increase in local content from five percent to 56 percent over 15 years, the creation of 50,000 jobs, and over 12 million training man-hours.

He emphasised the role of communication in overcoming initial scepticism about the Act’s implementation, quoting former NCDMB Executive Secretary Ernest

Nwapa: “Our immediate challenge was to convince the public that we were serious about local content.”

Ezeobi argued that, “the NOGICD Act’s impact evidenced by the growth of local content from five percent in 2010 to 56 percent by December 2024, the creation of over 50,000 direct jobs, and the retention of over $8billion annually in the Nigerian economy, owes much to strategic communication efforts by the NCDMB.”

In chapter five of the book, sub-headed “Local Content and Trajectory of National Development”, which explored the economic implications of local content, addressing the ‘resource curse’ and Dutch disease’ phenomena, Ezeobi argued that local content mitigates these challenges by retaining economic value and fostering industrialisation.

He cited the establishment of pipe mills and steel fabrication capacities as evidence of progress.

Ezeobi also examined the synergy between local content and Corporate Social Responsibility, stressing that the NOGICD Act enhances International Oil Company’s social license to operate by integrating host communities into the oil value chain.

Reviewing the book further, Okoroha, added that, “is a landmark text that chronicles the success of

the NOGICD Act while offering a blueprint for effective communication and policy implementation. Dr Obinna Joseph Ezeobi’s expertise, grounded in 15 years at NCDMB, makes this book an authoritative

Training Man-hours

resource.”

Also reflecting on the book, Senior Special Adviser, Media to Rivers State Government, Hector Igbikiowubo, noted that Ezeobi has proved to be developmental in his

educational status by obtaining his doctorate from the University of Port Harcourt, and unveiling a strategic book on his convocation. Igbikiowubo added that “This book is not merely a documen-

tation of policy evolution; it is a masterclass in how strategic communication, stakeholder engagement, and visionary leadership can transform legislative intent into tangible economic progress.”

Nigeria to Sign MoU with Consortium on Green Legacy Programme

Optimistic about planting 20bn trees through the arrangement

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

The federal government has initiated the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with a consortium comprising the Dalberg Group and Campo Group.

This move, which was in pursuance of Nigeria’s Green Legacy Programme comes as the Organisation of Southern Cooperation (OSC) has chosen Nigeria as the site to build its first-ever South-South Technology Transfer Centre for Africa just as is also proposed for Nigeria to host its African South-South Summit.

This was made public yesterday, during a meeting between Vice President Kashim Shettima and the

Airlines Must Pay First Need Compensation to Passengers or Risks Sanctions, NCAA Warns

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) yesterday, charged local and international airlines operating in Nigeria to comply with the First Need compensation regulation where a passenger’s luggage is short-landed.

Short-landed baggage, NCAA clarified, refers to checked baggage accidentally left behind at the origin airport that arrives on a later flight.

The NCAA noted that part 19 of the Civil Aviation Regulation 2023 provides that affected local passengers are paid N10,000 and international passengers $170 in the event of land-landed baggage.

According to the agency, “For international airlines, they have a window to pay the amount defined in their terms of carriage failure, which attracts $170 without reduc-

tion. This is to enable passengers to purchase basic needs before their baggage arrives.”

The Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, NCAA, Mr. Michael Achimugu, who spoke at a meeting held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, with the regional managers of domestic airlines in attendance, said going forward, the Authority would sanction airlines that refused to comply with the First Need compensation policy.

He encouraged airlines to always pay the First Need to impacted passengers before they escalate to the Authority.

Achimugu stated, “This engagement perhaps should be the last time we will have to discuss the issue of this First Need. For a while now, it’s been a grey area.”

“Recall the NCAA has sent letters

to the airlines about First Need. There has not been much compliance by the airlines,” the Director noted.

“The regulations are very clear. One cannot say for certain if the airlines are intentionally disregarding the regulations or if there is some miscommunication along the line.

“I met with some station managers who seemed not to be aware of the regulations. We thought that the right thing to do is to have this conversation with you to understand what the challenges have been. Why are we not paying First Need for short-handed baggage?” He queried.

“Part 19 of the Civil Aviation Regulation 2023 makes it clear. If the baggage of a passenger doesn’t arrive with the passenger, for domestic airline, the passenger gets N10,000 and you have seven days to deliver the bag at their address at no cost to passenger.

consortium comprising the Dalberg Group and Campo Group, which navigated Ethiopia’s 46 billion tree planting success, on the sidelines of the ongoing United Nations Food Systems Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Shettima, in a statement issued by his Media Assistant, Stanley Nkwocha, was quoted to have said, “We have very tall and ambitious projects here, and where there is a will, there is always a way. But experience is not something you buy in the market square. You have to have it, and you have to earn it by supporting the Ethiopian government to succeed.

“We are optimistic about the 20 billion trees. If Ethiopia, a hilly country made up of highlands and mountains, can succeed in planting 46 billion trees, then I believe our 25 billion is even a modest figure. So, I want us to start planting up to 10 billion trees.”

Reiterating Nigeria’s commitment to the green revolution initiative, the

Vice President described President Bola Tinubu as a transformational leader bent on redefining the meaning and concept of leadership in Africa.

Shettima said President Tinubu remains the most courageous leader in the contemporary history of Nigeria who is willing to take risks and make far-reaching decisions to transform the Nigerian economy.

Meanwhile, the OSC has sought the support of the Nigerian government to establish the South-South Technology Transfer Centres, designed to facilitate exchanges of technologies among its member states.

This, the organisation said, was deserving of Nigeria, given the renewed leadership and educational strides of Tinubu.

The leadership of the organisation made the request, when Shettima played host to its Secretary General, Mr. Manssour Bin Mussallam, on the sidelines of the ongoing United Nations Food Systems Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Shettima, urged the OSC to look inward and come up with ingenious solutions to the developmental challenges among its member states, noting that the South constitutes more than 70 per cent of the global population.

“Part of the reason why I was eager to meet with you has to do with the core mandate of the Organisation of Southern Cooperation, which is to build a balanced and inclusive education system. And in this age of economic nationalism, the South needs to look inward to come up with ingenious solutions towards addressing developmental challenges among its member states.

“If you add China and India as part of the global south, we constitute a chunk of the global solution. For me and my boss (President Tinubu), we are very passionate about education. Africa missed the agricultural age; we missed the industrial age. We are now in the knowledge-driven post-industrial age and post-industrial revolution.

CAR Viral Video Attempt to Undermine China-Africa Relations, NGO Alleges

Michael olugbode in Abuja

A non-governmental organisation (NGO), SINOAFRIK Media Documentation and Development Network, has reacted to a recent viral video showing six Nigerians in the Central African Republic (CAR) complaining about abandonment and passport seizure by a Nigerian businessman working for a Chinese company.

In a statement signed by its Programme Director, Austin Maho, made available to the press, the body

decried what it described as “unusual negative media sensationalisation about Chinese interests fueled by propagandist media” as responsible for the widely circulated video which it said, “was designed to tarnish the image of the Chinese company and undermine China Africa relations.”

In a recent viral video, six Nigerians were seen lamenting their faith in the hands of a purported Chinese company that hired them in Nigeria, took them to the CAR, and abandoned them without pay while also withholding their international

passports. Their sponsor, now identified as Abdulrauf Ademola, has since issued a statement refuting the allegations made by the six Nigerian workers who accused him of passport seizure, unpaid salaries, and abandonment in the widely circulated video. Owing to this, SINOAFRIK, in the statement, cautioned Nigerians, especially social media users, to be wary of the antics of media manipulators who are out to destroy the relationship between Nigeria and China and Africa in general.

L-R: New U.S. Consul General in Lagos, Mr. Rick Swart receiving the Lagos State government plaque from the Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu during a courtesy visit at the Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja, ... yesterday

Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

Launch of afrinvest haLaL fund...

L-R: Managing Director, Afrinvest Asset Management, Christopher Omoh; Fund Analyst, Afrinvest, Hassan Orekoya; Group Managing , Afrinvest West Africa, Ike Chioke; Marble Advisory representative, Mustakeem Thanni; and Senior Business Development Manager, Afrinvest Kano Office, Kabir Ibrahim, during the launch of Afrinvest Halal Fund in Lagos…weekend

In Major Boost, BPP, NASENI Sign Offtake

MoU for Made in Nigeria Products

Effective immediately, MDAs to prioritise local purchase, open contracting portal saved country N173 billion, $155 million, €1.7 million, says Adedokun Halilu: We have over 14 market-ready products

James emejo in Abuja Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), yesterday, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) to establish a structured bridge between production and procurement for Made in Nigeria products.

The deal, which is more of an offtake agreement, will go long way in addressing the problem of lack of patronage of locally made products

in the country.

Director-General of BPP, Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, and Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive, NASENI, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, signed the deal on behalf of their respective institutions. Adedokun said the collaboration was centred on “how we take locally made solutions off the shelf and place them at the centre of public service delivery”.

He said the MoU aimed to align policies with priorities, and give

practical force to the Nigeria First Policy.

Under the terms of the agreement, NASENI’s innovations, including tractors, tablets, surveillance drones, and solar backup systems, will now be actively prioritised in the procurement plans of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) of government.

The BPP director-general said, “We are institutionalising a framework that makes local options not just preferable, but the default option before all others.

“However, let me be very clear here - this is not an act of protectionism. It is an act of patriotism grounded in performance.

“NASENI has invested in quality assurance. Its products are certified by national institutions such as SON and NAFDAC.

“Our role at the BPP is to ensure that these standards are rewarded with access, and that MDAs no longer look outside when the best is being made inside.”

Adedokun added, “For the avoid-

REA Strikes Deal with NCoS to Enhance Security Infrastructure in Prisons Nationwide

Signs MoUs with several Rescos on provision of clean energy Says over 160mw of green solar deployed to 1,650 communities

emmanuel

The Rural Electrification Agency (REA), the federal government’s agency responsible for expanding access to electricity in rural and underserved communities, yesterday signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) on clean energy with the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCos) to enhance security infrastructure, vocational rehabilitation and operational efficiency in their facilities nationwide.

Besides, the REA struck various deals with 15 other organisations in a bid to scale up the provision of renewable energy to various Nigerian organisations and far-flung communities in the country.

Aside from the deal with the NCoS, other organisations and private firms included: African Energy Council; Nigerian Incentives-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL); Green Energy Mission Africa; Energy Grid Solution Limited and Barton Heyman Limited.

Besides, the list of Renewable Energy Companies (Rescos) were: Grey Sak Ltd; COOD CRL; PVG Solar; Auxano; Tranos; Esodora Ltd; Suntisolar as well as JRB Solar and SEPLAT Energy.

Speaking at the event in Abuja, the Chief Executive Officer of the REA, Abba Aliyu, noted that the organisation has continued to blaze the trail in terms of enforcement of MoUs, noting that through a previous

deal with the Police Trust Fund (PTF), it was able to catalyse the emergence of smart police stations in several parts of Nigeria.

With Huawei, a Chinese top-tier manufacturer of renewable energy equipment, he noted that the agreement led to the deployment of a first-of-its-kind renewable testing and simulation centre in Nigeria.

“I’m happy to state that we have catalysed the private funding, debt funding for the Rescos to the tune of N100 billion provided by First City Monument Bank (FCMB) for financing the deployment of renewable energy across the country.

“We also have catalysed the funding of $20 million by International Finance Corporation (IFC) as a concessional debt financing for the Rescos, which as of today, four of our Rescos have accessed that funding. Through that MoU also, we were able to design and commence the first-of-its-kind Resco Next-Gen programme,” Aliyu stated.

As of today, he stated that the REA has signed with 13 sub-national governments, catalysing the deployment of about 200 mini-grids that are currently being constructed in the states.

While thanking the Controller General of the NCoS for his proactive approach, Aliyu assured that in the next round of deployment of mini-grids, the correctional services would include the organisation to make life easier for inmates.

Earlier, in his remarks the REA Executive Director, Technical Services, Umar Umar, noted that currently the REA is implementing projects across all the 36 states of Nigeria and the FCT, with over 160 megawatts of green solar capacity deployed, electrifying over 1,650 communities and powering over 1,000 health care centres and connecting more than 6 million Nigerians.

“With the Nigerian Correctional Service, we are introducing clean energy solutions to enhance security infrastructure, vocational rehabilitation and operational efficiency in correctional facilities,” he added.

These partnerships, he said, also support the government of Nigeria’s ambitious energy transition plan, which targets achieving net zero emissions by 2060 and universal energy access by 2030.

In his remarks, the Controller General of the NCoS, Sylvester Nwakuche, described the agreement as a transformative step toward inclusion and reintegration in the service.

He said: “We are not just signing an MoU today. We are leveraging a collaboration that will provide renewable energy, support rehabilitation, and enhance vocational training within our facilities.”

According to him, the initiative represented a second chance for thousands of inmates, many of whom are often forgotten in national development planning, a number he

put at about 81,000.

“Over 81,000 of my sons and daughters are in incarceration in a community that is often forgotten when the larger society is making progress. Today, we are not just empowering infrastructure, we are empowering lives,” the NCoS boss said.

ance of doubt, let me say it here that we will be backing this commitment with reform action.

“First, we are integrating NASENI’s catalogue into the Nigeria Open Contracting Portal (NOCOPO). This means NASENI offerings will now be visible, verifiable, and measurable across all MDAs.”

He stated that between January and June, NOCOPO’s enhanced price intelligence helped Nigeria save over N173 billion, $155 million dollars, and €1.7 million.

According to him, “These are not just savings on paper. They are savings that free up resources for more schools, hospitals, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises.”

He said BPP’s revised thresholds, now N5 billion for goods and N10 billion for works, meant MDAs could act faster, “while we continue to strengthen post-review and audit mechanisms”.

He stated that BPP’s joint efforts with EFCC and ICPC had already led to significant recoveries, adding that the MoU further insulates the procurement system from manipulation by formally validating and promoting local alternatives.

Adedokun said under the partnership, both agencies will jointly set up a Technical Working Committee (TWC) to synchronise production timelines with procurement cycles.

The body will serve as the operational engine of the partnership, tracking outcomes, identifying bottlenecks, and ensuring continuous improvement, he stated.

The BPP boss commended NASENI for its efforts in putting Nigerian-made innovation on the map. He stated, “To MDAs, I say this clearly; prioritising these products is not just compliance. It is common sense.

“To citizens, I invite you to track these procurements on NOCOPO. Your vigilance ensures our accountability.

“Let us build a procurement system where every naira spent strengthens our factories, empowers our engineers, and affirms our belief in Nigeria.

“Let us move from paperwork to partnership, from preference to performance, and from policy to progress.”

He said, “The MoU is unambiguous. It only requires our fidelity to achieve the end we both seek.

“On our part at the BPP, we have committed to the success of this partnership in the national interest.

“As I often point out, whenever the opportunity arises, public procurement represents nearly one-third of our national expenditure. It is one of the most consequential tools for economic stimulation, job creation, and value for money.

Auchi Youths Protest Ravaging Gully Erosion, Kidnapping

adibe emenyonu in Benin City

Youths in Auchi, the administrative headquarters of Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, on Monday, staged a peaceful protest over the gully erosion ravaging the community and incessant kidnapping of people in the area.

The youths converged at the popular Jattu Junction with their placards, calling on the government to address the gully erosion and incessant kidnapping in the community.

The youths, under the umbrella of Auchi Youth Council (AYC), blocked the Jattu axis of the Benin-Auchi road to draw the attention of government to their problem.

Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Mr. Chalaman Momoh, told

journalists that the protest was to draw the attention of government and relevant authorities to the gullies and incessant kidnapping in the community.

Momoh said, “We are here to cry out to the government on the issue of gully erosion that is ravaging our community.

“We have written to the government and we have not gotten response.

“We are also having the issue of kidnapping every day. We have these kidnappers going into the homes of our people in the community and picking them unhindered.

“So, we are here to show solidarity and we are calling on government to come to Auchi to salvage the gully erosion menace and put an end to the incessant kidnapping of our people

in the community.” Coordinator, Edo Take It Back Movement, Mr. Hafiz Lawal, said no fewer than 15 persons in Auchi had been kidnapped with over N70 million paid as ransom. Lawal, who is also Coordinator of Coalition for Edo North Youths for Good Governance (CENYGG), listed the gully erosion sites as Utsokhwilli gully, water tanker road, and AuchiIgarra road.

Lawal stated that the protest, tagged, “Fix erosion ravaging Auchi and incessant kidnapping,” was to draw government attention to their demands.

“The demands we are placing before government is the erosion ravaging Auchi, and the issue of insecurity, with 15 persons from Auchi so far kidnapped,” he added.

addeh in Abuja

At UN Food Systems Summit, Nigeria, Other African Nations Demand Collective Action Against

Food

Insecurity

Shettima: Nigeria now deploying modern technology to enhance agricultural production As EU denies scaling down humanitarian assistance to Nigeria

Deji Elumoye and Michael Olugbode in Abuja

Nigeria and other African nations, as well as the United Nations (UN), have called for collective action, shared purpose and determination to combat food insecurity both on the continent and globally.

According to them, Africa needs predictable concession finance to invest in agriculture, rural transformation, infrastructure and literacy, while climate finance must be aligned with the food system.

The appeal came as Vice President Kashim Shettima said Nigeria was scaling its agricultural drive with modern technology, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), geospatial analytics, and satellite-driven climate intelligence to end food insecurity in the country.

In a related development, European Union (EU) denied a claim by Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) that Northern Nigeria was witnessing alarming malnutrition crisis due to shrinking funding from international donor agencies.

Country Representative of MSF in Nigeria, Ahmed Aldikhari was quoted in a statement issued last week by MSF, to have said, “The year 2024 marked a turning point in northern Nigeria’s nutritional crisis, with an increase of 25 percent from

the previous year.

“But the true scale of the crisis exceeds all predictions. We are currently witnessing massive budget cuts, particularly from the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union, which are having a real impact on the treatment of malnourished children.”

Shettima, who joined other African leaders on Monday at the opening session of the United Nations Food Systems Summit Stocktake (UNFSS+4) in Addis Ababa, said the target was to ensure a future anchored on abundance, equity, and human dignity.

According to him, while food insecurity has now become a shared affliction that is no longer taking cover in distant lands, African nations must learn to swim against the tide, amid climate change and other global challenges.

He stated, “The Fourth Industrial Revolution has not only disrupted the old order but gifted us instruments that were once confined to the imagination. Artificial intelligence, geospatial analytics, and satellite-driven climate intelligence are now part of our agricultural vocabulary.

“We are deploying these tools to monitor production, enhance transparency, connect producers to markets, and reduce waste across the value chain.”

Instead of diplomatic pleasantries,

Shettima urged participants at the summit to leave the event with a conviction that Africa will succeed. He advised African countries to rise with a shared purpose and determination to make the continent food secure.

Shettima stated, “A broken food system in any part of the world diminishes the dignity of humanity as a whole. Let us rise with a shared

purpose. Let us build a world where no child sleeps on an empty stomach, where no farmer is forgotten, and where food is not a luxury but a human right.”

The vice president stated that Nigeria had also pursued institutional reforms robustly, including deepening partnerships across sectors and prioritising agro-industrialisation as

a key driver of inclusive growth. He said this followed the unveiling of the National Food Systems Transformation Pathway, leading to the rollout of targeted investments in infrastructure and human capacity.

Stating that the declaration of a national emergency on food security in Nigeria did not just amount to raising the alarm, Shettima said,

“It’s the reason we are advancing the Presidential Initiative on Food Security, a mission designed to upscale the cultivation of vital staples – maize, rice, cassava, and wheat.

“We are backing this with climatesmart innovations, financial inclusion for smallholder farmers, and an expansion of extension services, particularly for women and youth.”

Nigerians Must Go Protest in Ghana: FG to Evolve Diplomatic Resolution of Crisis

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Nigerian government has promised to handle the ongoing widespread protest by Ghanaians against Nigerians in their country diplomatically.

Some Ghanaians had accused several Nigerians living in Ghana of involvement in crime.

But the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said, “We will engage them diplomatically.”

Nigeria and Ghana, both colonised by Great Britain, had kept good relations since the days of colonialism,

Glo Strengthens Network Infrastructure for Faster Data Speeds, Reliable Connections

Telecommunication giant Globacom has reeled out ongoing network improvement projects aimed at enhancing customer experience.

Globacom, according to officials, has been working round the clock to ensure that subscribers across the country continue to get value for money especially with the recent tariff increment approved by regulatory authorities.

The network upgrade involves the deployment of new base stations to cover new locations and densification to improve coverage in areas with growing population to guarantee excellent network quality for both voice and data services all over the country.

Globacom is also relocating its fibre infrastructure in several locations where road constructions

across the country have impacted network quality.

The locations include Auchi-Okene, Benin-Ekpoma, Lafia-Akwanga, Minna-Abuja, and Funtua-Gusau.

“We decided, at a huge cost, to relocate the fibres, many of which had been vandalized in several places by uncoordinated road construction activities, in order to bring best-inclass services to customers”, the company disclosed.

The exercises point to brighter days for Glo customers as it is also about to complete the deployment of several hundreds of new sites across the country.

The network has this year alone also deployed thousands of 4G LTE sites across key cities and locations across the country, while 150 new ones are being deployed currently

to scale up the number. This will ensure faster and more reliable data service.

To complement this, there has also been a massive upgrade of the backhaul capacity in terms of microwave and fibre, as well as a well-planned improvement in the core network, which is going on seamlessly.

The company assured the ongoing efforts will lead to enhanced service delivery, superior network quality, and expanded coverage. Additionally, customers can expect faster data speeds and improved overall network performance.

Globacom targets to add over a thousand new sites over the next one year, with a focus on adding more LTE sites to the existing ones to deepen its reliable data reach.

and remained best of allies.

However, recently there had been tension in the relationship, as Ghanaians, who at the peak of their country’s economic depression in the 1980s took refuge in Nigeria, attacked Nigerians staying in the country, alleging that they are involved in varied crimes.

Just last week, there was widespread protest in Ghana following repeated incidents of criminal activities blamed on foreign nationals.

Some Ghanaians had staged a protest at the popular Obra Spot in Accra, demanding the immediate expulsion of Nigerians from their country over alleged involvement in crime and social vices.

The protesters, who gathered in large numbers, displayed placards with messages, such as “Nigerians Must Go”, “End Kidnapping”,

“End Prostitution”, “End Armed Robbery”, “End Fraud”, and “End Ritual Murders.”

They accused some Nigerians in Ghana of fuelling insecurity and moral decadence in their country, with some of the placards carried by the protesters reading, “Who protects the right and freedom of Ghanaians?”, “Nigerians are kidnapping and using people for rituals”, and “Our kids are getting missing.”

In a viral video, several protesters are seen draped in the Ghanaian national flag while others donned red clothing — a traditional symbol of resistance.

One female protester, dressed in red and holding a placard, declared, “Nigerians must go because you cannot be in someone’s country and be doing anyhow.”

Another placard read, “Our Health

At Stake Due to Mass Prostitution,” explaining growing public frustration over perceived health and safety risks allegedly linked to activities of some Nigerian nationals in the country.

The protest came amid rising tension between Ghanaian citizens and segments of the Nigerian community, following repeated incidents of criminal activity blamed on foreign nationals.

One protester, riding on a motorcycle, explained how the presence of Nigerians in Ghana was fuelling insecurity in the country.

He said a time would come when even they and their children wouldn’t be able to go out to buy things and return home safely.

He pointed to the incident involving an official of the Ghana High Commission, who recently died in Abuja, after a robbery incident.

Sokoto Govt Revs Up Transportation Sector with 30 New Mass Transit Buses, E-Ticketing System

Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto

The Sokoto State Government has released 30 additional mass transit buses to enhance inter-state and intra-city transportation in the state. The Deputy Governor, Idris Muhammed Gobir, presented the keys to the State Commissioner for Transportation, Hon. Bala Kokani. A statement by Abubakar Bawa, the Director General, Media and Publicity, Government House, Sokot, said the new buses are part of the state government’s efforts to improve the mass transit system and reduce

the hardship faced by passengers. The buses come with an e-ticketing system, which allows passengers to book and pay for their transport fares online.

He further said the e-ticketing system will ensure transparency and accountability in the day-to-day operation of the state’s mass transit service. He urged the Ministry of Transportation to ensure effective supervision and regular maintenance of the buses, emphasizing that they were purchased with taxpayers’ money.

“The e-ticketing system will

also ensure that passengers can conveniently book and pay for their transport fares online without any difficulty,” Gobir explained. “This will reduce the stress and hassle associated with manual ticketing and make our transportation system more efficient and convenient.”

The State Commissioner for Transportation, Hon. Bala Kokani, assured that the vehicles would be properly maintained. He praised Governor Ahmed Aliyu for his consistent support to the mass transit sector, which has improved the comfort and convenience of passengers.

L-R: Partner, AO and FA Consulting, Mr Olawale Abiola; President and Chairman, Governing Council of Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria, Mrs. Uto Ukpanah; and Chairman, 2025 Investiture Planning Committee of ICSAN, Mrs Nkechi Onyenso, at the 30th Investiture ceremony of the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria held in Lagos... yesterday

Senate Committee Urges NDIC to Strengthen Internal Controls, Prioritise Risks Detection in Banking Sector

New NDIC chief executive reaffirms commitment to safer financial system Uwaleke seeks amendment of NDIC Act to modernise deposit protection frameworks

James Emejo in Abuja

Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and Other Financial Institutions, yesterday, tasked the newly appointed leadership of Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) to prioritise early detection of risks to safeguard depositors’ funds in the banking system.

Speaking at the opening of the 2025 NDIC Retreat in Niger State, Chairman of the committee, Senator Mukhail Abiru, stressed the need to adopt a proactive approach to financial crisis prevention rather than focusing on interventions after institutions might have collapsed.

The new NDIC Managing Director/ Chief Executive, Dr. Oludare Sunday, said the corporation remained committed to reviewing its risk management system amid emerging challenges, like cybersecurity.

Director, Institute of Capital Market Studies, Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Professor Uche Uwaleke, urged the senate committee to consider forward-looking reforms in Nigeria’s deposit insurance system through amendments to the NDIC Act 2023.

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, honoured all 24 players and 11 technical crew members of Nigeria’s senior women’s national football team, Super Falcons, with the national award of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), following their historic victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco last Saturday.

At the presidential reception held in their honour at the new Banquet Hall of State House, Abuja, Tinubu also directed the allocation of a three-bedroom apartment to each player and technical crew member at the government’s Renewed Hope Housing Scheme.

Tinubu further approved a cash award of the naira equivalent of $100,000 to each of the 24 players, and $50,000 equivalent to each technical crew member.

Amid cheers from the team members, the president said, “You have inspired millions, especially young girls who now see proof that their dreams are valid and

Uwaleke said the proposed amendments will modernise deposit protection frameworks and further align with the core principles of the International Association of Deposit Insurers (IADI).

He said by aligning with international best practices, Nigeria could build a more resilient, flexible, and responsive deposit insurance system.

Abiru said amid the growing prevalence of cyber threats and digital vulnerabilities in the financial system, NDIC must strengthen its risk management systems and maintain a high level of vigilance.

He stated, “We live in rapidly changing times. Beyond the usual challenges banks face, we are also dealing with cyber-attacks and other risks.

“I am sure you are already thinking of how to incorporate risk management to address these issues in the banking sector, which you are now beginning to oversee.”

The lawmaker assured NDIC of continuous legislative support to enable the agency perform its mandate effectively.

achievable.

“You have inspired me, too. And it’s great for a nation to have assets that are the hope of today, tomorrow, and the day after. You represent that hope. You ignited that hope. And we will continue to encourage you, the next generation, and other generations after you.”

Tinubu recounted the emotional moments of the final match, stating how the team’s performance lifted the nation’s spirit and united Nigerians from all walks of life.

He told the Falcons, “Your victory represents more than a sporting accomplishment. It is a triumph of courage, determination, discipline, and consistency.

“Honestly, I didn’t want to watch the match. I didn’t want to have high blood pressure. But people came in and turned my TV on that channel. When it was 2-0, I got very offended and restless.

“But I was still watching with the spirit of resilience, determination, and courage. And after that penalty, my strength was lifted, and I believe that of the nation was lifted, too.

“But you almost made me

A member of the committee, Senator Babangida Hussaini (Jigawa North-West), said proactive regulation in the banking sector was inevitable.

Hussaini stated, “Let me also echo what was said earlier: prevention is better than cure. The main goal of the corporation is to protect bank customers and investors.

“It is important that you focus on preventing distress in the banking sector, not just on how to respond after failures.

“Make sure that people do not lose their money in banks, in the first place.”

Hussaini also called for intensified supervision and an institutional review of legacy cases, including insider abuses. He referenced an earlier report by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which contained details of insider abuses, and advised the new management to revisit the files and ensure that necessary actions were taken.

He said, “We observed some lapses in supervision during our oversight visit to the Kano office. Strengthening your internal control and early

angrier because your mother (the First Lady) was in the kitchen, nearly abandoning my dinner.

“She doesn’t watch the game except when the girls are playing. And at the end of the final whistle, it was joy all over the country.”

The president assured the team of his administration’s continued support and commitment to sports development, pledging that the government would invest further in women’s football and youth talent development across the country.

“Your story is a story of hope. And in this era of Renewed Hope, we celebrate you, not just as champions of Africa, but as champions of the Nigerian dream,” Tinubu stated.

In a further show of appreciation, Chairman of Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, announced a donation of N10 million to each of the players and technical team members on behalf of the 36 state governors.

Earlier, wife of the president, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, described

warning systems will help prevent distress before it happens.”

In his remarks, the NDIC managing director vowed to maintain regular engagement with the legislature to ensure transparency and alignment on key issues.

He thanked the committee for the confidence reposed in the new team and pledged to consolidate on past achievements. Sunday said, “We have heard the charge by the chairman of the committee. Like we discussed earlier, there is no intention to reinvent the wheel.

“If things are working, we will simply fine-tune them and make them better. That is the promise we are making.

“We have been charged to review our risk management system, especially in light of developments like cybersecurity threats.

“We will treat that with all the seriousness it deserves. It is part of the vision we have for NDIC.”

Sunday added, “We thank the National Assembly for the legislative support we have enjoyed so far and the ongoing cooperation. We ask that

the Super Falcons as role models and shining examples of courage and excellence.

Mrs. Tinubu congratulated the team for their exceptional performance and unwavering spirit, describing their journey as “a testament to resilience, teamwork, and determination. You played with passion, confidence, and an unshakeable belief in yourselves—that it is not over until it is over”.

The first lady said, “The zeal you displayed on the pitch was nothing short of inspirational. You never wavered and reminded the world why Nigeria remains a powerhouse in African women’s football.”

Mrs. Tinubu prayed for the team’s continued success and shared an earlier conversation with President Tinubu about the team’s bright future as world champions.

“I told Mr. President this morning that you are going on to win the World Cup, and he thought I was too ambitious. But Ajibade, the team captain, just seconded that, and that is possible,” she said.

On her part, Super Falcons

Jonathan, West African Elders Join Global Leaders as Banjul Hosts Inaugural Sahel Summit

UNDP,

GJF Forum seeks to rebuild social cohesion, public trust in the region

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Former Nigerian president Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, ex-president of Mali Dioncounda Traore and some members of the West African Elders Forum (WAEF) will be arriving in Banjul, Tuesday to join more than 200 political leaders, policymakers, civil society representatives and development partners from across the world, for the first-ever Sahel Governance Forum, billed for July 30-31 2025.

The two-day conference with the theme “The Future of Governance: (Re)building Social Cohesion and Public Trust”, is holding against a backdrop of complex challenges, deepening political transitions, and urgent calls for governance systems that deliver for citizens in the Sahel States.

Convened by the Government of the Republic of The Gambia, in collaboration with the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the forum arrives at a critical moment for the region.

A statement released by the UNDP noted that heightened

insecurity, transitions, and rising social fragmentation have deepened mistrust and sparked growing calls from Sahelians for more inclusive, transparent and responsive governance.

It quoted the Gambian President Adama Barrow as saying the “Forum is a vital step toward redefining governance in the region, adding that “The Gambia is proud to host this important forum and ensure the benefits of sustainable peace and development are within reach for all Sahelians.”

Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, former Nigerian president and founder of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, stated the forum could not come at a more urgent time.”

He said further: “Across the Sahel, people are demanding governance that is not only effective, but also equitable and inclusive. This forum is about listening, action, and reimagining governance so it truly delivers for all.”.

Home to more than 350 million people, including one of the youngest and most dynamic populations in the world, the Sahel holds vast human and natural capital.

Yet its potential remains largely

untapped, held back by weakened institutions, repeated unconstitutional changes of government, violent extremism and the erosion of the social contract.

Recognizing that sustainable peace and development in the Sahel cannot be achieved without legitimate, transparent and participatory governance, the Forum aims to shift from reactive crisis response to long-term investment in state legitimacy, civic leadership and inclusive governance.

A key milestone will be the official launch of the flagship report, “The Future of Governance in the Sahel”, developed by UNDP, the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), and the Office of the Special Coordinator for Development in the Sahel.

Based on wide-ranging consultations across the 10 countries under the United Nations Integrated Strategy for the Sahel (UNISS), the report presents a bold, citizeninformed roadmap to rebuild trust, strengthen justice systems, enhance economic governance, and elevate citizen participation.

“The Sahel is at a crossroads,” said Ahunna Eziakonwa, UN

Assistant Secretary-General, UNDP Assistant Administrator and Regional Director for Africa. “We must use this forum as an opportunity to build a new governance compact that restores public trust, puts people at the centre and ensures institutions serve all, not just a few,” she added.

industry data from the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS), underscoring growing consumer reliance on digital platforms and increased integration of cashless channels across the financial system.

A breakdown of the NIBSS Instant Payment (NIP) data for the first quarter of 2025 showed that electronic transactions began the year on a strong note, with N100.06 trillion processed in January. This was followed by a decline in February to N88.87 trillion, likely due to the shorter number of days in the month. However, transaction values rose again in March to N96.07 trillion, closing the quarter just below the January peak.

When compared to the same period in 2024, the growth was evident.

this support be sustained.

“We, in turn, assure you that we will do our best to meet with the committee regularly and fulfil our responsibilities.”

In his keynote address on “Strengthening Legislative and Policy Frameworks to Enhance Deposit Insurance in Nigeria,” Uwaleke said in the light of current digital realities, the current NDIC Act did not adequately empower the corporation to monitor, assess, or resolve risks emerging from fintech firms.

He said the Act lacked provisions for fast-track resolution of digital-only financial institutions, stating that many fintechs rely on float accounts in commercial banks.

As a result, he said, “if the bank fails, NDIC covers the fintech’s funds, but what if the fintech itself collapses? Singapore (SDIC) explicitly covers e-wallets (e.g., GrabPay, Revolut).”

Among other proposed legislative interventions, Uwaleke called for amendment of all relevant sections requiring cooperation of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) by substituting the word “collaboration” for “concur-

Captain, Rasheedat Ajibade, said the victory was for the team and for every Nigerian girl who dreams of achieving greatness.

“Today, I stand before you not just as the captain of the Super Falcons, but as a proud daughter of Nigeria, carrying the dreams, resilience, and spirit of our great nation,” she said.

“On behalf of my teammates, coaches, and technical staff, I express our heartfelt gratitude for this warm reception and the unwavering belief you have shown in us,” she added.

Emphasising the significance of their 10th WAFCON title, the team captain further said, “This victory is not just a trophy. It is a testament to the unyielding spirit of Nigeria.

“It is a celebration of every young girl in our villages, towns, and cities who dares to dream… This 10th title is for you, Mr. President, for Nigerians, for Super Falcons, and for every young child who believes and dreams to be on this stage someday.”

Ajibade called for continued support from the government and stakeholders to elevate Nigeria’s

Tinubu said he was ashamed to call my name and mocked me, saying, ‘Na statistics we go chop?

All I want is to put food on the table of Nigerians.’

“Now, two years into his four-year tenure, Nigeria is ranked among the hungriest nations in the world, with millions unsure of where their next meal will come from.”

Obi accused the president of relying on “false data” to misrepresent the true state of the economy.

He said, “President Tinubu is

NIP transactions in January 2024 stood at N72.11 trillion, increasing to N79.33 trillion in February and N83.05 trillion in March. The figures highlighted a steady year-on-year rise in transaction value for each month, indicating continued growth in the use of instant electronic payments for both retail and business purposes.

A month-by-month breakdown for the first quarter of 2025, PoS transactions for the period showed that the value of payments processed through PoS terminals stood at N4.12 trillion in January. This declined to N3.12 trillion in February before recording a modest recovery to N3.22 trillion in March.

In comparison, PoS transaction values for the same period in 2024 were significantly lower.

rence”.

He pointed out that the proposed amendment will put the country in conformity with the IADI Principle No. 4, which required Deposit Insurer to work in collaboration with other financial safety-net participants. He further called for the amendment of “Section 89 (1), which provides that ‘the corporation may be granted access to reports of examination conducted by the Central Bank of Nigeria, by substituting ‘shall’ for ‘may’.”

global standing in women’s football. Chairman of National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, described the team’s victory as a symbol of national unity, inspiration, and the triumph of belief, courage, and excellence.

Dikko credited Tinubu’s administration with investing in sports development and women’s empowerment. He stated, “The Super Falcons’ triumph is a fruit of your unwavering support for sports and women. You have always believed that sports can unite us, heal us, and uplift our spirits as one of the major drivers of the economy. And today, we have seen it happen.” He commended Mrs. Tinubu for her “constant support for our women in sports,” saying, “This win goes beyond sports. It is a powerful symbol of our national unity and cohesion.

“In those 90 minutes, Nigerians everywhere, from the north, south, east and west held their breath, prayed together, cheered the team, and finally celebrated together. That is the power of sports, and, indeed, the power of our women in sports.”

now overfeeding Nigerians with wrong statistics — from unemployment figures to inflation rates and now GDP rebasing — all to paint a rosy picture of our deteriorating economic and household conditions.”

Obi stressed that effective leadership must be anchored on truth, vision, and integrity, stating, “Governance is not rocket science. It is not a gamble. It requires sincerity of purpose, character, competence, capacity and compassion.”

January 2024 recorded N850.09 billion, while February and March saw N805.05 billion and N961.86 billion, respectively. The year-on-year increase reflects a sharp rise in the use of PoS terminals for payments across the country. The growth in transaction value was accompanied by a notable increase in the number of active PoS terminals deployed nationwide. In January 2025, 5.5 million terminals were in use across Nigeria. This rose to 5.8 million in February and reached 5.9 million by the end of March. By contrast, terminal deployment in the same period of 2024 was much lower, with 2.4 million active terminals in January and 2.5 million in February and 2.6 million in March.

Dr. Oludare Sunday

Army, DSS, Hybrid Forces Kill 45 Bandits in Niger as NAF

Airstrikes Destroy ISWAP Tactical Base in Southern Tumbuns

Kill ISWAP terrorist commanders, fighters

Aleke in Abuja

of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with Hybrid Forces, backed by intelligence support from the Department of State Services (DSS) killed no fewer than 45 bandits that had been terrorising communities in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State.

The operation came as the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) yesterday said a precise air interdiction by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai destroyed a concealed Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) Tactical Base in Southern Tumbuns, Borno State. Security sources said the bandits were killed in Iburu community over the weekend during an intelligence-led ambush operation.

The sources disclosed that the DSS, on intercepting intelligence that the terrorists, riding several motorcycles, were advancing to attack Iburu and neighbouring villages, quickly alerted soldiers on standby.

According to the sources, a gunfight ensued, with the troops killing at least 45 terrorists. The sources quoted the villagers as saying that they counted at least 40 dead bodies believed to be those of the bandits. They also counted dozens of the bandits’ motorcycles, which were destroyed during the gunfight.

Fashola Hails Rise of Creative Economy at Grace Etigwe-Uwa’s Solo Art Exhibition

sunday ehigiator

Former Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola, yesterday lauded the rise of creative professionals and the growing global recognition of talent as he delivered a keynote address at the solo art exhibition of Grace Olanma Etigwe-Uwa, themed, ‘Lost in a World of Light’.

The exhibition, held in Lagos, attracted a host of dignitaries, including legal luminaries, art enthusiasts, and family members, who gathered to celebrate the creative vision of the young photographer and filmmaker.

Describing the exhibition as a “generational moment,” Fashola noted the shift in societal attitudes toward non-traditional career paths and underscored the economic power of talent in the 21st century.

“Forty years ago, it would have

NANS

been almost heresy to tell my father I wanted to be a photographer,” he said. “Today, creatives are not only redefining professionalism but are also reshaping the global economy. They are now so successful; they hire lawyers, engineers, and accountants.”

Fashola praised Grace’s artistic journey and highlighted the importance of platforms that support emerging talent. “This is our next job,” he said, “to provide the resources, infrastructure, and environments where our young people can thrive creatively.”

The exhibition, “Lost in a World of Light,” presents a series of deeply personal photographic works exploring inner clarity, light, and resilience amid adversity. From London to Makoko, Etigwe-Uwa captures moments that reflect joy, struggle, and faith, a journey she said was inspired by divine direction

and her commitment to impact.

“The theme speaks to clarity, even when you’re lost, there’s always a light at the end,” said Grace. “I want people to come here, see the art, and feel like a part of them has been touched and transformed.”

In an emotional moment, her father, renowned lawyer Etigwe Uwa, SAN, expressed his pride in his daughter’s accomplishments.

“For any parent whose child does well, it’s a joyful day,” he said. “Grace has exhibited internationally, and we’re proud she brought her work back home. Her theme reminds us that even in light, one can still be lost. But some people, even in poverty, radiate joy and light from within.”

The exhibition, which runs from July 27 to 29, features a rich collection of photographs taken across various locations, including

Scotland, London, and the Makoko community in Lagos.

The Makoko series, in particular, documents life on water and the beauty of human connection amid hardship.

“I don’t believe in showing class,” Grace shared. “When I went to Makoko, I played with the children. We connected as equals. They even followed me to the land when I was leaving, that’s an impact.”

Grace, who has previously exhibited her work in Canada and the UK, including at an Applesponsored event attended by CEO Tim Cook, described this as her first solo exhibition in Nigeria and a meaningful return to her roots.

The sources regretted that two members of the hybrid forces, fighting alongside soldiers, paid the supreme price, while four others were said to be receiving treatment for serious gunshot injuries at a public hospital in the state capital.

In April, the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adeniyi, had raised the alarm over terrorist activities around the Babanna border in Niger State.

Adeniyi said his men were lucky to have survived an ambush by the terrorists, who were angered by the Customs officers’ seizure of 500 jerry cans of petrol that smugglers were delivering to them.

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), yesterday, revealed that the decisive air attack on terrorist operations in the Lake Chad region led to the killing of several high-value Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) commanders and fighters.

A statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the mission, carried out on July 27, targeted Arina Woje, a notorious ISWAP enclave in the Southern Tumbuns of Borno State, known as a sanctuary for insurgent leaders.

Ejodame said the strikes

followed a series of credible Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) sorties that confirmed the return of terrorist elements to the area after recent inter-factional clashes.

He said, “ISR data revealed significant terrorist activity, including the movement of foot soldiers, the reactivation of structures, and the concealment of possible command centres and logistics depots beneath dense foliage.

“Acting on credible intelligence, NAF air assets were dispatched to undertake a focused strike mission. On arrival, aircrew acquired and prosecuted pre-selected targets using precision-guided munitions, achieving devastating effects.”

Ejodame stated that preliminary battle damage assessments revealed the destruction of several structures housing key ISWAP leaders, fighters, and logistics storage facilities, effectively disrupting the group’s operational planning and resupply efforts in the region.

This operation, according to him, reflected NAF’s continued resolve to dislodge terrorist elements, deny them freedom of movement, and support ground forces in restoring peace and stability across Nigeria. He stressed that it also reinforced the value of intelligence-driven air power missions in modern counter-terrorism operations.

Threatens Mass Protest Over Activities of Police’s Dragon Squad in Ogun NAPTIP Staff Walk Abuja Streets,

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has threatened mass protest over harassment and activities of members of Dragon Squad, a police unit that has been terrorising residents of Ogun State, particularly students. It said the squad, apart from arresting and detaining Ogun residents who are majorly youths and students, has been acting as security backing to suspected land grabbers who invaded part of Ita Oshin and Oke Ata communities in Abeokuta, to unleash mayhem and wreak havoc.

To this end, the student body called on the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun to urgently intervene and rein in the terrors of the squad. The National President of NANS, Ladoja Olushola, in a statement issued on Monday noted that the squad claimed to be established by the Office of the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 2, Onikan, Lagos State, has continued to perpetrate harassment and intimidation against the residents and students of Abeokuta, on the pretext of going after “Yahoo Boys”. Olushola added that the squad, being led by one DSP Akeem

Adeyemi, has its office in the Laderin Estate in the state capital, where several innocent people were being detained.

He examined that Adeyemi, who was part of the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and Zonal Intervention Squad (ZIS) located in Obada-Oko Area of the state, has continued to lead his team to terrorise, extort, detain and raid their homes of residents illegally.

He noted that despite several complaints made by the residents to the office of the Commissioner of Police in Ogun State, the activities of the Dragon Squad have continued unchecked.

Dangers of Human Trafficking

Michael olugbode in Abuja

Staff of National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) walked through the streets of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja on Monday to sensitize the public to the dangers of human trafficking.

This was part of activities lined up to celebrate the 2025 World Day Against Human Trafficking with staff led by the agency’s Director General, Hajiya Binta Bello.

They shared flyers showing the dangers of human trafficking and how to handle cases of human trafficking while on the long walk from the Old Parade Ground through to Unity Fountain in Abuja.

Speaking to journalists at the end of the walk, the Director General said: “In the course of the walk this morning, we have distributed

various Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials to the people.

“We have sensitized them along the routes, and we have also taken a few reports of cases of human trafficking. This is aimed at enhancing the understanding of the people on issues of human trafficking so that they can develop the needed resistance to the antics of the traffickers.”

She added that: “On the other hand, our action is a show of force and a clear message to human traffickers in the country that a hard time awaits them if they continue in their nefarious activities.

“By distributing a symbolic “Red Card” among other leaflets this morning, we have issued notices to the organized trafficking syndicates in Nigeria and within the African Corridor that their time is up.

“NAPTIP frowns at the continuous deceit, recruitment, trafficking, and exploitation of our target population by these traffickers. This is an affront to our collective resolve and might, and it must stop now.

“We have expanded our stakeholders, network to include major actors at the grassroots level. This is a deliberate and strategic preventive mechanism to create the desired awareness in the rural communities within the 774 local Government councils across the country.

“We have also brought on board major service providers such as the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), organized professional and community-based women’s groups, religious and traditional leaders, state governments across Nigeria, and other critical partners.”

Courtesy visit to Mr Governor...

L-R: CEO, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Abdullahi; Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Executive Vice President, Dubai World Trade Centre, Trixie LohMirmand and Vice President, Dubai World Trade Centre, Richard Brook, during a courtesy visit at Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja ... yesterday

Linus

Troops

30TH SESSION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY IN KINGSTON...

4,252 Nigerians Die Yearly of Hepatitis, Says FG

NCDC: 152 Nigerians die from Lassa fever within 26 weeks N17.9 trillion spent on Hepatitis treatment annually

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The federal government said 4,252 Nigerians lost their lives yearly due to liver cancer caused mainly by untreated hepatitis.

It further said the country currently lost between N13.3 trillion and N17.9 triollion annually in direct and indirect costs due to hepatitis.

Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Pate, made the revelations on Monday at a press briefing to commemorate World Hepatitis Day.

In another health-related development, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) said there were 811 confirmed cases of Lassa Fever and 152 deaths so far recorded in 2025.

In its latest the Lassa Fever Situation Report published for Week 28 (7th–13th July, 2025), the centre said 11 new confirmed cases were reported in Ondo, Edo, and Benue states.

According to the agency, 89 per cent of confirmed cases were from five states – Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi.

Pate, who was represented by Director of Public Health at the ministry, Dr. Godwin Ntadom, stated that Nigeria had the thirdhighest burden of hepatitis globally, with over 20 million people infected with hepatitis.

He said, “The nation faces an

overwhelming burden, with over 20 million people living with Hepatitis B and C: 18.2 million are affected by Hepatitis B, and 2.5 million by Hepatitis C.

“Over 8.1 per cent of the Nigerian population is infected with Hepatitis B, and despite the availability of vaccination and treatment, over 90 per cent of those infected are undiagnosed and unknowingly transmit the virus to others, including children. Symptoms are often misdiagnosed as malaria.

“Conditions such as fever, fatigue, and malaise are typically treated with self-medication, while the virus silently damages the liver and may progress to liver failure or cancer. Tragically, 4,252 Nigerians die each year from liver cancer caused by untreated hepatitis.

“The socioeconomic cost of this epidemic is staggering; Nigeria loses between N13.3 trillion and N17.9 trillion annually in direct and indirect costs.”

The minister said the federal government was flagging off a nationwide health campaign initiative tagged Project 365, meant to conduct constituency-by-constituency screening, diagnosis, and treatment campaign.

According to Pate, the aim is to try and eliminate Hepatitis C and interrupt the transmission of Hepatitis B in Nigeria by 2030.

He listed other measures being

undertaken by the government to include increased budgetary support for hepatitis programmes, creation of a Viral Elimination Fund, tax incentives, and regulatory reforms to encourage local pharmaceutical production, and legislative backing for expanded access to diagnostics and treatment across all geopolitical zones; and regulatory reforms to streamline approval processes for hepatitis-related commodities.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that is caused by a variety of infectious and non-infectious agents, leading to a range of health problems, including severe liver damage and cancer, some of which can be fatal. There are five main strains of the hepatitis virus, referred to as types A, B, C, D, and E. Meanwhile, in its report, NCDC said Case Fatality Rate (CFR) was 18.7 percent, higher than the 17.3 percent reported same period in 2024.

The centre reported that the predominant age group affected by the Lassa Fever was 21-30 years. It said the number of suspected and confirmed cases decreased compared to that reported for the same period in 2024, while the male-to-female ratio for confirmed cases was 1:0.8. It added that there was no new healthcare worker affected in the reporting week 28, assuring that the national Lassa fever multi-partner, multi-sectoral Technical Working Group is coordinating the response activities at all levels.

Nigerian Doctors Give FG Notice of 21-Day Indefinite Strike

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), the umbrella body of all medical doctors in the country, has given the federal government 21 days to meet their welfare demands of face total, indefinite nationwide strike.

The decision was reached at an emergency Delegates Meeting (EDM) of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) held in Abuja on Sunday.

In a communique signed by its President, Prof. Bala Audu, the association listed the demands of the doctors to include; the recent circular released by the National Salaries income and

Commissioner

Wages Commission (NSIWC) on the review of the Consolidated Medical Salary Scale (CONMESS) for Medical Doctors and the persistent delay of the Federal Government to pay accrued 7-month arrears of the 25/35 percent arrears of the last CONMESS adjustment.

Others grievances include; the failure of the FG to respect previously signed Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs), the seemingly neglect of the health sector by the Government at all levels, as well as

other demands as itemized by the Association.

NMA also condemned the attitude of the Federal Government and its officials to issues affecting Nigerian doctors.

The communique reads: “The EDM issued a 21-day notice of a total and indefinite strike in line with the relevant labour laws effective from 27th July 2025 should the government fail to address its demands comprehensively within this period.

“The EDM remains optimistic that

the government in its concern to the health needs of Nigerian citizens, and the welfare of the patriotic Nigerian doctors working tirelessly under unpleasant conditions and economic realities will be responsive to these concerns to avert this impending industrial disharmony in the health sector.

“The EDM mandated the NOC and the NTNT to bring their experience to bear in all engagements with the Nigerian government to deliver tangible results to the Nigerian doctor”.

IVLPAAN Holds Negotiation Masterclass, Trains 100 Professionals

The Edo State Government said it is making cultism and other social vices unattractive by ensuring that every child is well taught, trained, developed and have ability to lead the state in the nearest future.

It also said the Governor Monday Okpebholo administration has shown commitment for a better society by equipping schools and employing teachers.

Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, stated this on the sideline, at the NEPL/Seplat Empowerment Programme for teachers in Edo and Delta States.

Dr. Iyamu said Governor Okpebholo was in tune with the incentives President Bola Tinubu

rolled out to boost admission in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

Iyamu said Governor Okpebholo remained committed to promote whatever that would advance the course of the Edo child.

“We are fully in alignment and we have started the publicity. We cannot rely solely on certificate anymore. Those that are going to be trained in technical education have been encouraged especially with the stipend that goes with their membership.

“We are fully aligned as a state.

Whatever thing that will advance the course of the average Edo child, Governor Monday Okpebholo is fully committed and we are driving the change”, he stated.

Iyamu who thanked Seplat for the initiative to train teachers, noted:

“We appreciate Seplat Energy for this initiative. The teacher plays significant role in the life of a child. 40 percent of the modeling of every child, the quality of the child depends on the teacher.

“We want to make sure our teachers are at par with excellence. It is a laudable one. Governor Okpebholo is committed to a better society. That is why we are building schools and employing teachers.

“He wants every child to be well taught, trained, developed and lead the state in the nearest future. He wants to make cultism and other social vices unattractive. We are committed as a government to see how we can make that change.”

The International Visitor Leadership Program Alumni Association of Nigeria (IVLPAAN) recently hosted a transformative edition of its “Empower-to-Prosper Series,” delivering a high-impact masterclass on the art and strategy of negotiation.

Themed “Negotiate With Power: How to Charge Appropriately for Your Value,” the event addressed the rising importance of negotiation as a core professional competency in Nigeria’s increasingly competitive business landscape.

Held at the American Corner, Concord Newspaper Complex, Ikeja, Lagos, the masterclass brought together a dynamic mix of professionals, creatives, and entrepreneurs, all eager to enhance their ability to articulate value, price confidently, and secure high-value deals without underselling themselves.

The programme featured practical tools, real-life case studies, and

expert-led sessions designed to equip participants with the mindset and methodology required for successful negotiations.

IVLPAAN President, Adedayo Oketola, opened the session with a welcome address, highlighting the association’s mission to empower changemakers through mentorship, leadership development, and social impact initiatives.

The first session, “Mastering Your Value & Crafting Winning Negotiation Strategies,” was led by Odunola Onadipe, Chief Operating Officer at Detail Commercial Solicitors.

Onadipe walked participants through the process of identifying their market value and developing compelling value propositions anchored in core competencies and niche expertise.

She emphasised the emotional and psychological dimensions of negotiation, stressing that suc-

cessful outcomes often hinge on understanding the motives, fears, and communication styles of others.

A major highlight was her breakdown of the BATNA (Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement) model, which she advocated as a crucial tool in negotiation strategy. In the second session titled “From Pitch to Payment – Closing HighValue Deals Without Underselling Yourself,” Dr. Peter Ogudoro, Managing Consultant at Ogudoro Leadership Trainers and Founder of the Nigerian Teachers Community, delivered thought-provoking insights on attracting rather than chasing clients in today’s fast-paced economy. Ogudoro, an accomplished educationist and career strategist, encouraged participants to embrace humility in professional settings, even when it means attributing success to superiors to secure long-term growth.

L-R: Director, Maritime Safety and Security, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Babatunde Bombata; Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Olufemi Oloruntola; and Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, during the 30th Session of the International Seabed Authority in Kingston, Jamaica…recently

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

LAUNCH OF INNOVATIVE YOUTH STORYTELLING COMPETITION...

L-R: Member, Board of Advisors for Plotweaver, Mr. Noah Ibrahim; Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board, Mrs. Adebukola Agbaminoja; and Project Lead, Lagos Youth Storytelling Competition, Mr. Otome Oyo, during a press conference to launch innovative youth storytelling competition in partnership with Plotweaver, held at Ikeja... recently

SEC Wades into Tourist Company of Nigeria’s Crisis, Says Idigbe-led Board Remains in Place

Pledges to continue to uphold its regulatory mandate

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) yesterday intervened in the crisis rocking the Tourist Company of Nigeria Plc (TCN), insisting that the Board led by Anthony Idigbe (SAN) remains in place.

In a statement yesterday, SEC

frowned upon the purported removal of Idigbe as chairman of the board of the company, saying that the action of the so-called board members that allegedly displaced the existing board remain unrecognised.

Recently, a leadership crisis erupted at the TCN following a controversial boardroom shake-up involving Idigbe. On July 22, 2025, the company’s board purportedly held an emergency meeting where Idigbe was reportedly removed as chairman and replaced by Mrs. Erejuwa Gbadebo.

The board also announced the replacement of OOT Nominees Limited as company secretary, citing governance concerns and a conflict of interest. However, Idigbe

has strongly refuted reports of his removal, describing the development as false and procedurally flawed. He said the meeting was adjourned before any such action could be taken and insisted the matter was not on the agenda. He also questioned the legality of an Annual General Meeting (AGM) allegedly held on July 25, arguing it had been

Cross River Says Akwa Ibom Not Interested in Resolving Dispute over 76 Oil Wells

Bassey Inyang in Calabar

The Cross River State Government has reacted to claims by the Akwa Ibom State Government that it will not surrender the rights to the benefits that accrued to it following the decision of the Supreme Court 2012 which declared it the owner of 76 Oil Wells hitherto disputed by both states.

Following the handover of the Bakassi peninsula to the Republic of Cameroon in 2008 following the judgement of the Internal Court of Justice, ICJ, which declared Cross River South as non-littoral state, the ownership of the 76 oil wells was handed over to Akwa Ibom State by the federal government.

A press statement entitled “Re: 76 Oil Wells: Restatement Of Facts Updated Version” issued on Monday by the Cross River State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, accused the Akwa Ibom State of spreading inaccurate information, and outright falsehood against the Cross River State Government, and

its people.

“The attention of the Cross River State Government (CRSG) has been drawn to a Press Release issued by Uko Udom, SAN, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Akwa Ibom State on the 24th July, 2025 wherein several misrepresentations and outright falsehood were made against the government and the good people of Cross River State.

“Given the sensitivity of the issue, the Cross River State Government would ordinarily not join in litigating this matter in the Court of Public Opinion, just as our sister state desires in the light of her various publications on the subject matter.

“Nevertheless, this time, it is important to clarify the misinformation peddled by the Akwa Ibom State Government on this issue,” the statement said.

The commissioner said although the case over the ownership of the Bakassi Peninsula in the ICJ was largely favourable to the Republic of Cameroon, it didn’t affect all parts of Bakassi, especially it’s western flank

which is still in Cross River State.

Ekpang said the renewed agitation for a revisit of the issue of the 76 Oil Wells followed the discovery of fresh facts which clearly indicated that Cross River State the 76 Oil Wells were wrongly awarded to Akwa Ibom State.

“The ICJ delivered its Judgment in 2002 ceding the Southern portion of the Bakassi Peninsula to Cameroon leaving out Western Bakassi in Nigeria in the Judgment.

“The clear implication of that judgment is that Western Bakassi remains in Cross River State and in Nigeria.

“It must be noted that the judgment of the International Court of Justice was implemented by the Signing of the Green Tree Agreement in 2008 where Nigeria and Cameroon, with the help of the United Nations which set up the structures for the handover of Southern Bakassi Peninsular to Cameroon and initiated the Joint Boundary Demarcation Committee known as the Cameroon-Nigeria Mixed Commission with the man-

NGML Signs Agreement with Firm for Developmemt of CNG Plant in Kogi

David-Chyddy

NNPC Gas Marketing Limited (NGML) has entered into a joint venture agreement with Zuid Energies Limited for the development of a 6MMSCFD capacity Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) plant and a 40MMSCFD LNG facility in Ajaokuta, Kogi State. NGML said the agreement was part of its strategic drive to expand gas marketing and distribution across Nigeria.

The signing ceremony took place on the sidelines of the MobilityCNG Stakeholders Workshop held in Abuja on Friday.

The group in a press statement said: “The agreement demonstrates NGML’s commitment to leveraging private sector partnerships to deliver innovative Virtual Pipeline Solutions that enable efficient gas supply to off-grid and underserved areas.”

The workshop brought together key players and regulators in the

downstream value chain, including the leadership of NGML and Zuid Energies Limited, who represented their firms in signing the joint venture agreement. The theme of the workshop was; Deepening Industry Alignment for a Sustainable Mobility-CNG Sub-Sector. Participants said the aim was to deepen industry alignment, discuss commercial opportunities, and present solutions related to the Presidential CNG Initiative.

date of mapping out the land and maritime boundary between Nigeria and Cameroon.

“While the Committee was yet to commence its work of mapping out the actual boundary line of the territories belonging to Nigeria and Cameroon over Bakassi and Lake Chad, the National Boundary Commission and the Revenue Mobilization, Allocation and Fiscal Commission held a retreat in Kano in August 2008 and applied what they called the “Technical Option” as against the “Historic Title Option” earlier used in demarcating the boundary between Cross River and Akwa Ibom States and awarded the 76 oil wells located in western Bakassi to Akwa Ibom State,” the commissioner further stated. “

cancelled by regulators and that the circulated agenda was forged.

But aligning with the position of Idigbe, SEC, in the statement, maintained that the July 25, 2025 AGM was held in clear disregard of an express directive from the commission and in contravention of extant Nigerian laws governing such meetings.

“The Securities and Exchange Commission (the Commission) has keenly followed recent disturbing developments in The Tourist Company of Nigeria Plc (TCN) championed by some majority shareholders in the company.

“These developments include purportedly proceeding with an Annual General Meeting which was suspended by the Commission, and passing resolutions altering the Board composition by purportedly removing SEC appointed members of the Board and the Board Secretary without recourse to the Commission.

“The Commission, pursuant to its core mandate under the Investments and Securities Act, 2025, had taken regulatory steps including appointing two Interim Independent Directors into the Board of TCN Plc to ensure its survival as a going concern and to protect the interest of all shareholders especially those whose holdings cannot give them access to the Management and control of the company.

“The recent steps taken by the majority shareholders are poised

Group Lauds Governor

of the state.

The Ebonyi State Government led by Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru has received accolades from the people of Oshiri, Onicha Local Government Area on his infrastructure and poverty alleviation projects across the state.

This is coming as the community under the aegis of Innocent Unah Solidarity Movement (IUSM), marched on their ancestral streets to drum up support for the governor. Speaking during a man-march event in Oshiri, the coordinator, Innocent Unah Solidarity Movement, Godfrey Chukwu, said that Nwifuru has been visionary in his approach to governance in Ebonyi State and has taken giant strides towards infrastructure development

He said that IUSM is a group of good governance and sustainable leadership advocates drawn from the 16 clans of Oshiri community in Ebonyi State.

He also said his regime has seen the advancement of education infrastructure in the state, with the establishment of specialised universities, including those in aeronautics and ICT, science and technology.

According to him, “We are therefore expressing our gratitude to Governor Nwifuru for making Ebonyi people feel the impact of governance through his visionary leadership.”

The group also called on Nwifuru to extend the dividends of his good governance to the people

to thwart the gains already made by the said regulatory intervention which had brought stability into the company and returned its shares to positive values.

“The Commission, by this notice, informs the general public and all stakeholders that TCN Plc remains under the Commission’s regulatory involvement. The Commission does not recognise the purported Annual General Meeting (AGM) of TCN Plc of July 25, 2025 held in clear disregard of an express directive from the Commission and in contravention of extant laws governing such meetings.

“ The Commission shall accordingly discountenance any resolution passed in the said meeting until all legacy issues are fully resolved,” the SEC noted in the statement. It pointed out that the Board of TCN Plc remains as constituted prior to the purported AGM, and the SEC appointed independent directors would remain on the Board of TCN Plc to ensure good governance, stability, the protection of minority investors and to ultimately maintain an orderly and fair market.

The Commission said it remains a law-abiding agency and would accordingly use all legal machinery at its disposal to uphold its regulatory mandate of investor protection and ensuring market discipline, urging all stakeholders and the investing public to be guided accordingly.

of Oshiri through appointment of Oshiri daughters and sons to positions of responsibility so that they can join the governor in the good works of sustainable building of Ebonyi State.

On his part, publicity secretary to the group, Gabriel Moses Unah, said the group “pleads with the governor to extend his inclusive governance dividends to the people of Oshiri by appointing them as commissioners, advisers. I am certain that Oshiri will give the governor 100 percent of the votes come 2027.”

Unah noted that it is lamentable that no Oshiri indigene has ever been appointed commissioner since the creation of the state in 1996, contrary to the inclusive governance stance of Governor Nwifuru.

Eleke in Awka

Oluchi Chibuzor

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

LAWYER

'Insecurity in Plateau is Premeditated Genocide and Land Grabbing'

Plateau State attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Philemon daffi

LAWYER

'Insecurity in Plateau is PremeditatedGenocide and Land Grabbing'

Whether Montreal Convention Provides the Exclusive Framework for Claims Arising from Carriage by Air

Page IV

Bode Olanipekun, SAN Donates

Physiotherapy Centre to LUTH in Honour of His Father

Page V

Quotable

‘The present Constitution actually disincentivises federating units from being productive, because too much power is concentrated at the Centre.’. - Professor Mike Ozekhome, CON, SAN, Human Rights Activist and Constitutional Lawyer

57 Lawyers Earn Prestigious SAN Rank, Swearing-in Set for September 29

Page V

Senate Recess Confirms Full Suspension Period for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

Page V

Plateau State attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Philemon daffi

How Suspects’ Rights Are Abused

Continuing with our series on the lawlessness of law enforcement/ allowing themselves to be used as tools of oppression against the people, it is apposite for me to consider some of the fundamental rights that a Suspect has upon arrest, and how again, these rights are usually breached and abused by arresting officers.

Ernesto Miranda v State of Arizona: American Miranda Warning/Rights

"You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say, can be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an Attorney. If you cannot afford one, one will be appointed for you."

These are globally known as the Miranda Warning/Rights (MR) which are supposed to be recited by the arresting officer at the point of arrest, or before a suspect is interrogated. These fundamental rights of a Suspect, though part of the Fifth and Sixth Amendments to the US Constitution, that is, the right to remain silent, the right against self-incrimination and the Suspect’s right to legal representation of his/her choice, and the right to legal aid when a Suspect cannot afford legal representation, were established from the USA Supreme Court case of Ernesto Miranda v State of Arizona 384 U.S. 436 (1966). In this case, Mr Miranda was arrested for armed robbery, kidnap and rape. He was interrogated by the Police, and he confessed to the crime without being cautioned about his right to remain silent and not to answer questions, or to legal representation. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled Miranda’s confession to be inadmissible, because the Police didn’t inform him of his rights before the interrogation and the confession was taken.

Even though Mr Miranda was subsequently retried and convicted, his confession was excluded, and his conviction was based on other evidence. In USA, obtaining a confession without reading the MR renders such confession inadmissible as evidence, but, doesn’t necessarily signal the end of a case if there’s other evidence available to conduct or prove the case.

American vs UK Miranda Warning Most countries have their own version of the MR, or at least rights to protect a Suspect. For example, the MR of the UK states thus: "You do not have to say anything. But, it may harm your defence if you do not mention when questioned, something which you later rely on in court. Anything you do say, may be given in evidence".

The American MR is different from that of the British, in that while the former emphasises on the right to remain silent, the latter emphasises on the importance of giving answers to questions which may be relevant to the Suspect’s defence during the trial. I would imagine that, for example, the details of a Suspect’s alibi would be important here. In Ehigiegba v State (2020) LPELR50372(CA) per Samuel Chukwudumebi Oseji, JCA (as he then was), the Court of Appeal held that: “The law relating to Alibi is that an accused person who wishes to raise the defence of Alibi, must do so at the earliest opportunity while making his extra-judicial statement. This is to enable the Police investigate the Alibi. An Alibi raised by an accused person in the course of his testimony in Court is one raised too late in the day, and does not deserve any valuable consideration.” Also see Njovens & Ors v State (1973) LPELR-2042(SC) per George Baptist Ayodola Coker, JSC. The British MR also doesn’t inform the Suspect of his/her right to legal representation or legal aid, though obviously it should be a given that a Suspect is also entitled to this. Unlike USA, in the UK, the non-recitation of the MR before interrogation doesn’t necessarily render a confessional statement inadmissible; it could depend on the circumstances of the case and/ or the Judge’s discretion.

Nigeria: Police Caution

While in Nigeria, we do not have the MR the way they do in the USA or UK, we have some similar rights provided for in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended)(the Constitution) and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015 (ACJA). Sections 35(2) & 6(2)(a) of the Constitution & ACJA respectively, provide for the right to remain silent or avoid answering questions on arrest (self-incrimination) - at least, until the appearance of a legal representative or person the Suspect wants to consult. Section 6(2)(b)-(c) of ACJA also mandates the Police or arresting Officer, to inform the Suspect of their right to legal representation and free legal aid where applicable. The Nigerian version of the MR, places emphasis on the right to be informed

onikepo

onIkepo BraIThwaITe

braithwaite

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

The Advocate

“The U.S. Supreme Court ruled Miranda’s confession to be inadmissible, because the Police didn’t inform him of his rights before the interrogation and the confession was taken….Not only are Nigerian Suspects not allowed to enjoy their right to remain silent when they are arrested, they are made to incriminate themselves while words are also put into their mouths by the Police. Additionally, their statements are taken in the absence of legal representation, without being video recorded! So much for the Police Caution or MR!"

of the reason for arrest immediately (Section 6(1) of ACJA) or within 24 hours (Section 35(3) of the Constitution).

Sometimes, the Nigeria Police Statement of Witness/Accused Police Caution (PC) includes this statement: “In the case of (the) accused person caution will be given and recorded here in (the) manuscript. I XY (Male/Female) have been duly cautioned in B Language that I am not obliged to say anything unless I wish to do so, but, whatever I say shall be taken down in writing and may be given in evidence”. But, unfortunately, not only is the PC not particularly followed, it appears that there are no consequences for non-adherence to it. Suspects' statements/confessions are admissible, even if the Suspect isn’t cautioned. And, since the PC appears on the Statement Form, it is assumed, even if it is wrongly, that the Suspect has been cautioned. The only time there may be some consequences, is if the accused person can prove that his/ her extra-judicial confessional statement was taken by the Police under duress. Usually, this is proven or disproven at the beginning of a criminal trial, in a ‘trial-within-trial’, to ascertain the voluntariness of such statement.

In Awelle v People of Lagos State (2016) LPELR-41395(CA) per Tijjani Abubakar, JCA (as he then was), the Court of Appeal held that “….where the prosecution fails to comply with the mandatory provisions of Section 9(3) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law, any confessional statement extracted from an accused person without video recording or in the presence of Counsel for the accused shall be rendered impotent”.

Upon arrest, the suspect is usually inter-

rogated and asked to make a statement, often times, this is done in the absence of their legal practitioner and without a video recording. See Section 15(4) of ACJA; FRN v Akaeze 2024 12 N.W.L.R.

Part 1951; Charles v State of Lagos (2023) LPELR-60632(SC) per Helen Moronkeji Ogunwumiju, JSC on the video recording of confessional statements being mandatory. Unfortunately, the PC written on the statement form is just for decoration, and the Suspect is mostly not allowed to remain silent. Though the issue of the the right to remain silent and avoid answering questions is closely intertwined with voluntariness of a confessional statement, for the purpose of this discussion I’m interested in the former, because they are part of the PC.

The right to remain silent and avoid selfincrimination is breached incessantly, and Suspects are forced to talk, even sometimes tortured into making confessional statements. One day I was listening to a Police Officer giving his testimony in court during a trial, and I couldn’t believe my ears when the witness said that Defendant X had been injured badly, possibly as a result of a gun shot when the Police was arresting him, but he wasn’t taken to hospital or given any treatment until a few days later, coincidentally, immediately after Defendant X’s confessional statement had been taken! Not only was the injured Defendant X not allowed to remain silent or have a legal representative present while he was making the statement, the excruciating pain he felt as a result of his injuries was used as the tool to make Defendant X incriminate himself! In Atuche v FRN

2015 4 N.W.L.R. Part 1449 Page 306 at 330 per Ikyegh, JCA, the Court of Appeal defined incriminate as “to identify (oneself or another) a being involved in the commission of a crime”. Also see the case of Umar v State (2016) LPELR-41182(CA). In Rabiu v State (2010) LPELR-4888(CA) per Mary Ukaego Peter-Odili, JCA (as she then was), the Court of Appeal held thus: “….the purported confessional statement of the Accused/Appellant was not produced through his free will. This is because there has been incontrovertible evidence showing that the statement, though under caution, was obtained after serious violence done to the person of the Appellant alongside threats and inducement, and therefore, the voluntariness that ought to be present to give validity to the Statement was absent. That the superior Police Officer endorsed the statement did not cure the fundamental damage done to the voluntariness of that statement, thereby rendering it inadmissible in evidence”. Just like Rabiu v State (Supra), Defendant X hadn’t been allowed to remain silent; his statement, which was one of self-incrimination, was improperly obtained after he had been seriously injured and left in acute pain without medical treatment.

Sometimes, the Police ask Suspects basic questions - personal details - name address, age, etc and then proceed to fill the Statement Form for them. In one incident, I was surprised when Defendant Y whose statement had been thumb-printed, was able to sign a document in my presence! I had assumed that he couldn’t speak English, nor read or write. He said he could - but that, the Police had insisted that they would fill in the Statement Form for Defendant Y. Not only are Nigerian Suspects not allowed to enjoy their right to remain silent when they are arrested, they are made to incriminate themselves while words are also put into their mouths by the Police. Additionally, their statements are taken in the absence of legal representation, without being video recorded! So much for the Police Caution or MR!

Conclusion

In my almost 34 years of practice as a Lawyer, I'm not sure that I can say that I have ever seen many extra-judicial statements of accused persons countersigned by their Lawyers. They are usually countersigned by the Police. And, maybe that's why most statements are confessional statements! Because, whether the MR or PC, these Suspects’ rights are breached by law enforcement agents with reckless abandon.

How many sane people would sit down to implicate themselves so deeply, and admit to committing heinous crimes to the level that we see in so-called confessional statements? Not many. Yet, the irony is that possibly 50% or more of convictions on criminal cases across Nigeria, are secured based on confessions! Or is it that most Nigerian Suspects have loose tongues, so much so that they readily and voluntarily use their own mouths to hang themselves?! I think not. Something is certainly not right with what transpires between law enforcement agents and Suspects, from arrest to taking statements and beyond. The sum and substance of it is that, in reality, it is the opposite of the MR or PC that obtains, just as it is with other parts of the criminal justice process - the presumption of innocence until proven guilty (Section 36(5) of the Constitution), is in reality, more like guilty until proven innocent. Instead of bringing Suspects to trial within the timelines specified in Section 35(4)-(5) of the Constitution, Defendants languish in prison for years, awaiting trial and congesting the prisons, with or without the services of Counsel. And, instead of being given the right to remain silent etc, Suspects are coerced by all means, including physical torture, to confess. See the Anti-Torture Act 2017.

The Nigerian administration of criminal justice system would do better to have something like the UK Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE), which outlines the procedure that must be followed to regulate the process from arrest of a Suspect to charge. It should be the Handbook, not just for law enforcement, but for Lawyers and Judicial Officers on the clear, unambiguous steps that must be followed to satisfy the MR or in the case of Nigeria, the rights of Suspects set out in the PC, Constitution and ACJA.

P.S.

Congratulations to the 2025 SANs! Isn't it interesting that while the LPPC has reduced the number of Academics being conferred with the rank to only one per year, SANs are now being called Professors without necessarily going through the rigours that Academicians must pass through, before reaching the helm of their career to become Professors!

Inspector General of police, dr kayode egbetokun

Whether Montreal Convention Provides the Exclusive Framework for Claims Arising from Carriage by Air

Facts

The 1st Respondent, a domestic air carrier, operated an aircraft, McDonnell Douglas MD-84 with registration number 5N-RAM. On 3rd June, 2012, the 1st Respondent contracted to convey a certain Mrs Oluwatosin Ibironke Anibaba, the wife of the Appellant, from Abuja to Lagos on flight 9J-992. At approximately 3:35 pm, the aircraft crashed in the lju-Ishaga area of Lagos State, resulting in the death of all the 153 passengers on board, including Mrs Anibaba. The Appellant, the personal representative of the deceased and her husband, alleged that the crash was caused by the negligence of the deceased pilot, Mr Peter Simon Waxton, whose personal representative is the second Respondent. He subsequently instituted an action on 30th May, 2014 seeking extensive reliefs spanning funeral expenses, loss of personal belongings, loss of earnings, dependency claims, pre-death pain and suffering, and posthumous loss of companionship, among others. The monetary claim was for several millions of Naira and United States Dollars. On 20th February 2020, the Federal High Court awarded the Appellant the sum of US$61,000.00, along with a post-judgement interest of 10% per annum, rejecting many of the other reliefs sought, based on insufficient evidence or lack of legal basis.

Dissatisfied with the judgement, the Appellant appealed to the Court of Appeal, which court partially allowed the appeal, revising upward the awards for pain, suffering, and loss of companionship to a total of US$250,000.00. However, it ordered that the Naira equivalent be calculated at the exchange rate prevailing as of the date of the cause of action being 3rd June, 2012. The Appellant further appealed to the Supreme Court and the Respondent cross-appealed, challenging certain aspects of the judgement of the Court of Appeal.

Issues for Determination

The Appellant formulated the following issues for determination of the appeal:

i. Whether the learned Justices of the Court of Appeal erred in law and occasioned a miscarriage of justice, when they directed that the judgement sum in United States dollars be converted to Naira at the prevailing exchange rate as of the date of the cause of action, instead of the date of judgement or payment, as required by law.

ii. Whether the learned Justices of the Court of Appeal misconstrued Article 29 of the Montreal Convention (domesticated in the Third Schedule of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority Act, 2006, by holding that the Appellant was not entitled to bring an additional claim under the Fatal Accidents Law and the Administration of Estate Law of Lagos State.

iii. Whether the lower court erred in affirming the trial court's refusal to grant several heads of damages claimed by the Appellant, despite cogent evidence presented.

iv. Whether the Court of Appeal was wrong in only increasing the meagre award of USD60,000 for pain, suffering, and loss of companionship to USD250,000, which the Appellant contends remains inadequate.

Arguments

On the first issue, the Appellant submitted that the lower court was right to set aside the trial court's award of the respective sums of US$20,000.00, US$30,000.00 and US$10,000.00 in favour of the Appellant for the pain, loss of companionship and affection suffered by the Appellant, his daughter and the deceased's parents respectively, for being meagre, and that the lower court was right in increasing the sums awarded. However, Counsel for Appellant contended that the Justices erred by suo motu converting the increased judgement sums from United States Dollars to Nigerian Naira at the prevailing exchange rate on the date the cause of action arose. Counsel argued that the court also erred in interpreting the phrase "shall be converted to Naira at the existing official exchange rate" of Article 23 of the Montreal Convention, as referring to the exchange rate at the date of the cause of action. In response, the Respondents submitted that the lower court erred in increasing the judgement sum, especially because the basis for the heads of damages for which they were granted were not recognised or recoverable under Nigerian law, being contrary to Article 29 of the Montreal Convention, as domesticated, and that damages for pain and suffering are non-quantifiable; and as such, not recoverable. Further, that pain, suffering, loss of companionship, and affection, constitute non-compensatory damages specifically excluded under Article 29 of the Convention.

On issue two, the Appellant submitted that the matter at the trial court was brought pursuant to the Montreal Convention for the Unification of Certain Rules for International Carriage by Air, 1999 (the Convention) as incorporated into the Nigerian Law by Section 48(2) of the Civil Aviation Act, 2006 (the “NCAA” or the “Convention as domesticated”); the Fatal Accident Law of Lagos State, Cap F1 laws of Lagos State, and that the lower court failed to properly interpret and apply the provisions of Article 29 of the Montreal Convention and Article

Honourable Tijjani Abubakar, JSC

In the Supreme Court of Nigeria Holden at abuja

On Friday, the 17th day of January, 2025

Before their lordships

Mohammed lawal Garba Tijjani abubakar

Chidiebere Nwaoma uwa

Stephen Jonah adah

Jamilu yammama Tukur Justices, Supreme Court SC./CV/1191/2022

Between

MR FeMI aNIBaBa aPPellaNT

(Suing as administrator of the estate of Mrs Oluwatosin Ibironke anibaba (deceased) for and on behalf of the dependents of the deceased and the estate of the deceased)

And

1. daNa aIRlINeS lIMITed ReSPONdeNTS

2. STaCy VeOleTTe SelleRS

(Sued as the personal representative of The estate of Mr Peter Simon Waxton - deceased)

(Lead Judgement delivered by Honourable Tijjani Abubakar, JSC)

24 of the Warsaw Convention to the facts of the case. Responding, it was contended for the Respondents that the Fatal Accidents Law of Lagos State 2003 and the Administration of Estates Law of Lagos State 2003 were inapplicable to aviation-related matters, and Article 29 of the Convention as domesticated, expressly precluded the application of domestic laws to claims governed by the Convention.

On the third issue, the Appellant highlighted that at page 44 of the judgement of the lower court, the court labelled as speculative all heads of damages refused by the trial court, which included claims for future dependence on the deceased's earnings, income, pension, and services, as well as claims for future healthcare costs and the deceased’s pre-death pain and suffering. The Appellant posited that these claims, except for the deceased’s pre-death pain and suffering, were economic claims that would have continued to accrue had the deceased not died in the air disaster. He argued that the trial court erred by dismissing these claims as speculative, without evaluating the substantial oral and documentary evidence adduced in their support, and that this was further compounded by affirming

“Accordingly, claims for damages in Nigeria arising from the death of a passenger in carriage by air, must be brought solely under the Montreal Convention as domesticated, subject to its conditions and limits…while the Convention serves as the exclusive framework for establishing liability, domestic laws like the Fatal Accidents Laws and Administration of Estates Law, act as necessary adjuncts in determining the procedural and distributive aspects of claims”

the decision of the trial court on the ground that the claims were couched in future, but that the mere fact that the claims were future-oriented does not render them speculative. As a rebuttal, the Respondents argued that the lower court properly evaluated the evidence before it, and correctly dismissed the Appellant's claims for lack of proof.

On issue four, the Appellant contended that, despite the upward review of the judgement sum by the lower court, it failed to consider material evidence, including the uncontroverted testimony that the family of Peter Simon Waxton, the Pilot of the ill-fated Dana flight, was compensated with the sum of US$4,400,000.00 in similar circumstances, and the unchallenged evidence that the deceased was pregnant at the time of her death, which resulted in a compounded loss to the Appellant and the other dependents of not only the deceased, but also their unborn child. The Appellant highlighted the precedent of Supreme Court of Texas, which affirmed a jury’s award of $500,000 for mental anguish suffered by a deceased from the time of a plane’s breakup until it hit the ground, and urged the Apex Court to substantially increase the sums awarded as damages and resolve all the issues for determination in his favour. Reacting to the submission, the Respondents argued that Section 48(2) of the NCAA 2006 and Articles 17 and 29 of the Convention as domesticated, all claims regarding a carrier’s liability in respect of the death of a passenger are subject to the compensation limits in Article 21 thereof. The compensation must be linked to actual damage sustained, which must be strictly proved.

Court’s Judgement and Rationale

The Supreme Court examined the first issue raised and held that the wordings of the Convention, specifically Article 29, were clear and unambiguous to the effect that claims for damages arising from international air carriage must be governed exclusively by the terms of

the Convention. The Apex Court cited SIDHU v BRITISH AIRWAYS PLC [1997] 1 ALL ER 193 where the House of Lords held that the Warsaw Convention (the predecessor to the Montreal Convention) provided the sole remedy for passengers, in claims arising from international carriage by air. As such, the Supreme Court held that given the comprehensive nature of the liability regime established by the Convention as domesticated in Nigeria, it operates as the exclusive framework for addressing claims arising from carriage by air. Accordingly, claims for damages in Nigeria arising from the death of a passenger in carriage by air, must be brought solely under the Montreal Convention as domesticated, subject to its conditions and limits. Their Lordships also noted that Article 29 of the Convention recognises the role of domestic laws in determining eligible claimants, that is,. determining the persons entitled to bring claims and their respective rights. Thus, while the Convention serves as the exclusive framework for establishing liability, domestic laws like the Fatal Accidents Laws and Administration of Estates Law, act as necessary adjuncts in determining the procedural and distributive aspects of claims. Deciding issue two, Their Lordships held that damages for pain, suffering, loss of companionship, and affection fall within the ambit of general damages, which are compensatory in nature, and that these heads of damages are distinct from punitive or exemplary damages which is prohibited by the convention. The court adjudged that the trial court’s findings on pain, suffering, loss of companionship, and affection were properly grounded in the evidence presented, and the reassessment by the lower court did not violate the limitations imposed by Article 29 of the Montreal Convention, to the contrary, it ensured that the claimant was adequately compensated for the harm suffered, consistent with the established principles of law. On the argument that the lower court suo motu increased the award of damages, the Supreme Court held that the record of appeal showed that the decision of the lower court to increase the award was a direct response to the issues formulated, and the arguments canvassed by the Appellant that the award of US$60,000.00 was manifestly inadequate.

Determining other issues raised, the Supreme Court held that (i) the sum awarded by the lower court was adequate in the circumstance, and required no further upward review and that (ii) the claims for future dependence on the deceased’s earnings, income, pension, and services, as well as claims for future healthcare costs and the deceased’s pre-death pain and suffering, were correctly deemed speculative as the inherent uncertainties of life, including potential loss of employment, health issues, or remarriage were legitimate considerations that negate the plausibility of such claims; and they were not supported by any concrete or compelling evidence. Finally, on the exchange rate to be adopted in converting the award of damages into Naira, the currency of enforcement, the Supreme Court examined the provisions of the original text of Article 23 of the Montreal Convention which provide that in judicial proceedings, conversion of the sums into national currencies shall be made according to their value in terms of Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) as defined by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) at the date of judgement. Therefore, in construing the domesticated version of Article 23, it is axiomatic that domestic legislation implementing an international convention must, as far as possible, be interpreted in harmony with the purpose and intent of the convention, particularly where no conflicting domestic provisions exist. Accordingly, Their Lordships held that the absence of specificity in the domesticated text of Article 23 cannot be divorced from the clarity provided by its parent provision under the Montreal Convention. Additionally the court highlighted the principle that judicial awards do not become enforceable until judgement is delivered as being relevant, and firmly held that the lower court fell into grave irredeemable error in holding that conversion to Naira must occur at the official exchange rate prevailing at the date of the cause of action rather than the date of judgement. The Court held that the appeal succeeded in part, as the judgement sum was awarded in favour of the Appellant at the existing exchange rate on the date of the judgement of the trial Court, being the 20th day of February, 2020, with post-judgement interest at rate of 10% per annum until full liquidation of the judgement sum.

Their Lordships also considered the Respondents’ cross-appeal which issue was considered with the issues in the main claim, on propriety of the award of the sum of US$250,000.00 as general damages for pain, suffering, loss of companionship, and affection, which are claimed to be non-pecuniary, non-quantifiable, and non- recoverable under aviation claims or Nigerian law. The court found the cross-appeal unmeritorious, and dismissed same.

Appeal Allowed in Part.

Representation

Babatunde Ajibade, SAN with Kolawole Mayomi and Peter Olalere for the Appellant.

Taiwo Kola-Balogun (Mrs) with O. Onuigbo for the Respondents/Cross-Appellants.

L-R: Bode Olanipekun, SAN; Mrs Tolu Olanipekun; Chief Medical Director, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Prof Lanre Adeyemo; Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Honouree, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN; SSG Lagos State, Bimbola Salu- Hundeyin; Vice Chancellor, Unilag, Prof Folasade Ogunsola; and Chief Kenny Martins KOLAWOLE ALLI

L-R: Mrs Tolu Olanipekun; Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Honouree, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN; and Bode Olanipekun, SAN

Bode Olanipekun, SAN Donates Physiotherapy Centre to LUTH in Honour of His Father

Stories by Steve Aya

In a heartwarming display of philanthropy and filial devotion, Mr Bode Olanipekun, SAN, on last Saturday commissioned and donated the Wole Olanipekun Physiotherapy Centre to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Idi-Araba. The state-of-the-art facility, named in honour of his Father, Chief Wole Olanipekun, CFR, SAN, marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s healthcare and legal communities.

The unveiling ceremony, held on the hospital grounds, drew a distinguished crowd of medical professionals, legal luminaries, University officials, and members of the public. The atmosphere was one of celebration and gratitude, as Speakers praised the Olanipekun family’s enduring commitment to public service and education.

Delivering his address, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State praised the Olanipekun family for their enduring commitment to public service:

“This Centre is not just a building it is a symbol of compassion, vision, and legacy. Mr Bode Olanipekun

has shown us that, honouring one’s roots can also uplift an entire community. Lagos State is proud to witness this moment, and we remain committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen our healthcare infrastructure.”

The Governor, who celebrated his relationship with Bode Olanipekun, confirmed how he had to keep his peace about the project since he was informed to keep it to himself, also emphasised the importance of private public partnerships in advancing healthcare, and called on other well-meaning Nigerians to emulate such gestures.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, expressed deep appreciation for the donation.

“This Centre is a bridge between law and medicine, between legacy and innovation. It will serve not only as a healing space, but also as a training ground for our students. We are grateful to the Olanipekun family, for investing in the future of physiotherapy and medical education.”

She noted that the Facility aligns

with UNILAG’s “Future-Ready” agenda, and will enhance the University’s capacity to train world-class healthcare professionals.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Chief Medical Director of LUTH, Professor Wasiu Lanre Adeyemo lauded the donation as transformative: He traced the history of the project to his meeting with Mr Bode and his wife some

two years ago.

“Today, we celebrate not just a gift, but a vision. The Wole Olanipekun Physiotherapy Centre, is a testament to what is possible when leadership meets compassion. It will significantly boost our rehabilitation services, and support our mission to deliver world-class care.”

He highlighted the Centre’s

modern equipment, and its role in expanding access to physiotherapy for patients across Lagos and beyond.

Mr Bode Olanipekun, SAN, Managing Partner at Wole Olanipekun & Co., in his speech described the donation as “a gift of healing in the name of a man who has spent his life uplifting others”.

He thanked and credited his wife

Tolu, for the success of the project, members of his family, his friends, especially Governor Sanwo-Olu for putting up with him. The Honouree, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, in his response, thanked his son and reaffirmed his belief in giving back to society. “We are stewards of grace”, he said. “And it is our duty to use that grace to heal, to teach, and

#EndSARS: Court Awards Damages Against Police for Violating Protesters' Rights

A Federal High Court in Lagos has ruled that Police Officers violated the rights of peaceful Protesters during a memorial event on October 20, 2024, and must pay N10 million in compensation.

The Judge, M. Kakaki, said the Protesters were harassed without cause, even though they were peacefully remembering victims of the #EndSARS protests. The ruling was a strong message, that Police must follow the law and respect people’s rights.

The Protesters had gathered at the Lekki Tollgate, to mark

the fourth anniversary of the 2020 #EndSARS shootings. But, instead of letting them express themselves, Police Officers fired tear gas, used live bullets, and forcefully broke up the event. Several people were injured, and later arrested. Some were allegedly beaten and held for hours, without being charged or allowed to contact anyone.

In court, the Judge said the people had a right to peaceful protest under Nigeria’s Constitution. He also said an earlier court ruling that limited

protests to certain parks in Lagos, didn’t apply to the October event.

That meant the Police had no legal reason to arrest them. He added that when people’s rights are abused, courts have the power to order compensation, even if the victims didn’t ask for money.

The people who brought the case, include 22 individuals and three human rights groups. They said they were badly treated by Police during the protest. One man said Officers kicked him in the groin. A woman said she was groped, and another Protester

57 Lawyers Earn Prestigious SAN Rank, Swearing-in Set for September 29

The Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee (LPPC) has approved the elevation of 57 distinguished legal professionals to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), the highest recognition of excellence in Nigeria’s legal profession. The decision was reached at the Committee’s 169th plenary session held on Thursday, under the Chairmanship of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, GCON.

The newly elevated SANs include 56 Advocates and one Academic, Professor Chima Josephat Ubanyionwu, whose scholarly contributions to the field of law were adjudged worthy of the honour. This year’s selection continues the tradition of rewarding outstanding courtroom advocacy, and impactful legal scholarship in Nigeria. According to the LPPC’s official statement, three petitions were submitted against some of the Applicants during the selection process. However, following a detailed review, the Committee unanimously concluded that all three petitions lacked merit and were dismissed, accordingly.

All newly shortlisted SANs are required to attend a Pre-Swearing-In Induction Programme, in line with directives from the Body of Senior

Advocates of Nigeria (BOSAN). The induction, mandatory for formal conferment, aims to prepare conferees for the heightened responsibilities and ethical standards expected of them.

The LPPC also issued a strong reminder to all SAN-designates to refrain from publishing advertisements, congratulatory messages, or goodwill announcements related to their nominations. Such public displays are prohibited under Paragraph 25(1) of the LPPC Guidelines and Rule 39(3) of the Rules of Professional Conduct (2023). Violators risk facing disciplinary sanctions.

The official Swearing-In Ceremony for the 2025 SANs is scheduled for Monday, September 29, 2025, at the Supreme Court Complex in Abuja. The Chief Justice of Nigeria will preside over the formal conferment, marking the culmination of a rigorous vetting and selection process.

Legal analysts have noted the increasing competitiveness of the SAN conferment process, especially with only two women, Mrs Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya and Mrs Chinyere Ekene Moneme, making the list this year. In recent years, calls for greater gender equity and transparency in the selection process have intensified.

This year’s SAN list also includes notable names from across the country’s legal jurisdictions and sectors, including private practice, public service, and academia. The full list reflects a broad mix of legal professionals who have distinguished themselves, through decades of courtroom advocacy and legal service.

Full List of the 2025 Senior Advocates of Nigeria

1. Theophilus Kolawole Esan

2. Fedude Zimughan

3. Ernest Chikwendu Ikeji

4. Victor Esiri Akpoguma

5. Leslie Akujuobi Njemanze

6. Akintunde Wilson Adewale

7. Preye Agedah

8. Omamuzo Erebe

9. Hannibal Egbe Uwaifo

10. Olumide Ekisola

11. George Ejie Ukaegbu

12. Oromena Justice Ajakpovi

13. Tairu Adebayo

14. Bawa Akhimie Osali Ibrahim

15. Suleh Umar

16. Emeka Akabogu

17. Godwin Sunday Ogboji

18. Godwin Aimuagbonrie Idiagbonya

19. Adeol u Olusegun Salako

20. Adetunji Oso

21. Achinike Godwin WilliamWobodo

22. Shuaib Agbarere Mustapha

23. Adizua Chu-Chu Okoroafor

24. Olanrewaju Tasleem Akinsola

25. Amaechi Fidelis Iteshi

26. Adakole Edwin Inegedu

27. Oyinkansola BadejoOkusanya (female)

28. David Ogenyi Ogebe

29. Aminu Sani Gadanya

30. Oluseun Awonuga Adeniyi

31. Ikechukwu Raphael Uwanna

32. Ayodeji Joseph Ademola

33. Kelechi Nwaiwu

34. Lawal Garba Hudu

35. Ibim Simeon Dokubo

36. Luka Abubakar Haruna Musa

37. Shakeer Adedayo Oshodi

38. Oluwole Tolulope Jimi-Bada

39. Mubarak Tijani Adekilekun

40. Chinyere Ekene Moneme (female)

41. Shuaibu Magaji Labaran

42. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh

43. Augustine Enenche Audu

44. Ali Dussah Zubairu

45. Adeyemi Adebambo Pitan

46. Habeeb Abdulrahman Oredola

47. Abdulakeem Labi-Lawal

48. Victor Agunzi

49. Nkwegu Luke Ogbagaegwu

50. Bidemi Ifedunni AdemolaBello

51. Temilolu Femi Adamolekun

52. Abdulkarim Kabiru Maude

53. Adedayo Gbolahan Adesina

54. Usman Yusuf Zaiyanu

55. Taiwo Azeez Hassan

56. Olufemi Olubunmi Oyewole

57. Prof. Chima Josephat Ubanyionwu (Academic)

said she was hit with a tear gas canister and then dragged, despite bleeding. The court found these claims, credible and serious.

The Applicants’ Lawyer, Joseph Opute, argued that the actions of the Police broke several parts of the Constitution, including rights to dignity and freedom of movement. The court agreed, and told the Inspector-General of Police and the Lagos Police Commissioner to pay the N10 million in damages together. The Judge also rejected Lagos State’s argument that the protest was illegal, because of the earlier court order.

Human rights activists, welcomed the ruling. Lawyer, Ayo Ademiluyi, called it a win for democracy and freedom of expression. He warned against Government attempts to control where and when people can protest, comparing it to life under dictatorship. One of the Protesters, Mr Soweto, said the judgement gives hope to activists and shows that the fight for justice is not in vain.

The #EndSARS movement, began in 2020 as a protest against police brutality. Although the Government disbanded SARS, the protest continued after the Lekki Tollgate shooting, which many consider a massacre. Since then, the Government has often used force to stop anniversary events. This court ruling could be a turning point, in defending Nigerians’ right to speak up and demand justice.

Senate Recess Confirms Full Suspension Period for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

Chioma Dike

The Nigerian Senate has adjourned plenary until September 23, 2025, effectively ensuring that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan will serve out her full six-month

suspension.

Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6, 2025, following accusations of insubordination after she objected to a seat reassignment during a February 20 plenary. The Senate

Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, later found her guilty and recommended the penalty. Her suspension was originally due to end on September 6, but with the Senate now on recess, she will remain out of plenary sessions until

after the break. Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, while announcing the recess on Thursday, stated that the adjournment aligns with the legislative calendar, and that Committee work will continue during the break.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

The Patriots Reignite the Debate for Restructuring and Rewriting the Constitution

Introduction

Barely a fortnight ago, a National Summit on The Future of Nigeria’s Constitutional Democracy was convened by The Patriots, (Nigeria’s foremost group of elder statesmen and women, intellectuals and civic leaders) under the distinguished leadership of Chief Emeka Anyaoku, GCON, former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, in collaboration with the Nigerian Political Summit Group (NPSG).

The Summit, which was held in Abuja between 16th and 17th July, 2025 respectively, examined the deep-rooted and systemic challenges confronting Nigeria and its diverse peoples. The Patriots, before the Summit itself, had undertaken some zonal consultations through Town Hall meetings and memoranda from all the six geopolitical zones of the country. Consultative meetings were also held by diaspora, socio-cultural groups (Afenifere, Arewa, Pande, Middlebelt Forum, Ohaneze Indigbo, women, youths, labour, persons living with disability, students leaders, professional bodies, market men/women, traditional rulers, religious leaders, elder statesmen/women, security experts, etc. All these generated a mass movement and a consensus of views reflected in the Patriots’ resolutions. These resolutions therefore, represent a thoughtful and deliberate synthesis of the consensus reached at the Summit, offering clear, constructive and principled solutions to the Nation’s constitutional and governance crisis. At the end of the deliberations, a Communiqué was issued, recommending in summary the following:

*An Urgent Need for a New Constitutional Order

*A Constituent Assembly to draft a New Constitution

*’A Referendum to approve the draft Constitution

*Materials to be considered by the Constituent Assembly would include the 1960, 1979, 1999 Constitutions and the deliberations of the 2014 National Conference.

Although the Patriots ought to be commended for their efforts, there is still the danger that the approach they are recommending and want adopted is not lawful, in that a vital step necessary to initiate the process has once again been sadly, and perhaps, even deliberately overlooked - how to legitimise and constitutionally initiate the restructuring process, before setting up a Constituent Assembly.

The main restructuring challenge for us in Nigeria today, is simply a question of how best we can rewrite our existing Constitution or restructure our polity, whilst still having in place the 1999 Constitution (as amended). If, as in our case here in Nigeria, an existing Constitutional order and a system of governance is already in place, it would be unconstitutional for anyone to attempt to usurp the Constitution without first receiving a clear mandate from the people. This is absolutely essential in my view. It can’t be abrogated, compromised or ignored. This is because the people are the source and donor of all political power. They voted in our present crop of elective

This article by Stephen Kola-Balogun discusses the National Summit on The Future of Nigeria’s Constitutional democracy recently convened by the Patriots, on the need to redraw a new Constitution for Nigeria after 25 years of the 1999 Constitution which was foisted on us by the Military, and how to go about making this a reality. The author emphasises the fact that the People of Nigeria must be consulted before and throughout the process, since sovereignty belongs to them, and goes further to explain how this can be achieved through the establishment of a Referendum authority created under the Independent National electoral Commission (INeC). He highlights the Chilean example, which can be used as a guide for this process

representatives. The Government and its organs are equally created by the 1999 Constitution, and logic suggests that as our elected representatives, they preside over how we are governed, limited only by the power that has been granted to them, by that same instrument from which their powers and existence is derived, namely the 1999 Constitution.

We have long ago passed the stage in Nigeria where a select or handful group of leaders, can think they can impose their views on us. No person or group of people can do that. This, in many respects, is why the deliberations of the National Conference in 2014 were

“The combined effect of Section 14 of the 1999 Constitution, as well as Item 60 on the Exclusive Legislative list in the Second Schedule of the 1999 Constitution, is that both the Executive and Legislative arms of Government are empowered to establish a Referendum Authority…. INEC could be given additional responsibility by the National Assembly, to manage a Referendum Authority….”

archived and not acted upon. There must first be a consultation process by which you obtain peoples views, like what the Patriots have just done. Thereafter, you test the acceptance or rejection of those views in a national referendum.

In short, even if we are to adopt and restructure along the lines suggested by the Patriots, how can we know for certain that the majority of the people buy into and accept those ideas?

Besides, the system of government in Nigeria today which they want jettisoned, has been operational now for over a quarter of a century. There is an implied and deemed acceptance, of the constitutional order which we have in place.

It is therefore, my argument that the people Must be consulted in a national referendum first, in order to give legal backing to what the Patriots seek to achieve. If you don’t obtain the consent of the people first, then any attempt to replace the Constitution would be akin to a civilian coup, because there is no legitimacy for doing so. Yes it may be difficult to get the desired approval at the onset, but it’s a necessity that can’t be ignored.

The National Assembly are elected as our representatives, under the 1999

Constitution. They are saddled with the responsibility of amending it whenever necessary; but, if you want to replace the 1999 Constitution completely (the very constitutional document that gives them their authority), then even they don’t have that power to do so without first consulting the people. They would therefore, have to return to the people and ask them this question. They must get their consent to change the grundnorm. Nothing else can suffice, because such an act would be unconstitutional.

Is there a Legal Framework or Constitutional Basis to be able to hold a Referendum in Nigeria?

There is no direct provision for a referendum in our Constitution, but it is more than implied. We often criticise the 1999 Constitution for being imperfect, but there are several aspects to it that have not been fully explored or understood. What then, is the legal framework that exists within the 1999 Constitution, that can provide ample basis for a future referendum at the onset that may ultimately lead to a new and radically changed Constitution, brought about by a people’s plebiscite or referendum?

The Chapter of the 1999 Constitution which contains the provisions on the

Stephen Kola-Balogun

Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy, provides some useful answers.

Section 14 of the 1999 Constitution provides as follows :

Section 14 (1)

“The Federal Republic of Nigeria shall be a State based on the principles of democracy and social justice.”

Section 14( 2) further provides

“It is hereby, accordingly, declared that(a) sovereignty belongs to the people of Nigeria from whom government through this Constitution derives all its power and authority”.

Now, if the Constitution states that sovereignty belongs to the people, it also stands to reason that the same power can be given back to the people whenever they ask, demand or need it. The conundrum however, is that no one seems to know or understand how to go about doing this. A clue can be found in the Second Schedule of the Constitution, which outlines the various items on the Exclusive Legislative list.

Item 60 provides for the establishment and regulation of authorities for the Federation or any part thereof - (a) to promote and enforce the observance of the Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles contained in this Constitution.

Establishing a Referendum Authority Under the Control of INEC

The combined effect of Section 14 of the 1999 Constitution, as well as Item 60 on the Exclusive Legislative list in the Second Schedule of the 1999 Constitution, is that both the Executive and Legislative arms of Government are empowered to establish a Referendum Authority, to give effect to the implementation of key parts and aspects of the 1999 Constitution, such as the need for a referendum. The Proposed Referendum Authority, does not necessarily have to be set up to be an Independent Statutory Authority. Part I of the Third Schedule to the 1999 Constitution, outlines the Federal Executive Bodies mentioned under Section 153 of the 1999 Constitution. Section 14 of the Third Schedule provides for INEC. Section 15 of the same Schedule outlines the powers of INEC.

Subsection 15(i) provides as follows: (i) Carry out such other functions as may be conferred upon it by an Act of the National Assembly. In other words, INEC could be given additional responsibility by the National Assembly, to manage a Referendum Authority within the purview of its responsibilities, without the need to set up a separate entity. INEC will, among other things, determine the criteria and threshold for a National Referendum. It is not unusual, to have electoral bodies and referendum bodies fused together. This is the practice, for example, in Australia. In addition to what has been highlighted above, Item 67 of the Exclusive Legislative list also provides that laws can also be made with regard to any other matter, with respect to which the National Assembly has power to make laws in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution. Item 68 further states that, the National Assembly can also make laws with regard to any matter incidental or supplementary to any matter mentioned elsewhere in the Exclusive Legislative list. It is interesting to note that, Section 8(3) (b)(c) and (d) of the 1999 Constitution provides for the use of a Referendum, when there is a proposal to create a new local government area. A Referendum Authority could therefore, also be used

The Patriots Reignite the Debate for Restructuring and Rewriting the Constitution

at State level whenever there is a request to create a new local government area. We don’t need to wait for such a request before putting the legal framework in place. In short, a Referendum Authority under INEC would provide the mechanism and legal framework for a referendum at both Federal, State and local government level’s of government. Finally, some might argue that our courts have long decided that Section 6(6)(c) of the 1999 Constitution provides that, except as otherwise provided by the Constitution, any issue or question as to whether any act or omission by any authority or person as to whether any law or any judicial decision is in conformity with the Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy set out in Chapter II of the Constitution, is not justiciable. It is however, my argument that, since Item 60 is on the Exclusive Legislative list, it is clearly spelt out elsewhere in the Constitution, and, as such, Section 6(6)(c) does not apply. And, issues relating to Item 60 will serve as an exception to those provisions, and will thus, be justiciable. See Archbishop Okogie v AG Lagos State 1981 2 NCLR 337; AG Ondo State v AG Federation & 35 Ors 2002 9 N.W.L.R. Part 772.

The Chilean Plebiscite as a Guide

The Patriots have themselves made recommendations for a referendum, but their suggestions are for the referendum to take place after the deliberations of a Constituent Assembly, instead of having two referendums, the first taking place at the onset. The first referendum would therefore, serve to initiate and legitimise the restructuring process, while a second referendum would approve the deliberations and draft Constitution of a Constituent Assembly

“…..a new process, the “Agreement for Chile”in December 2022, in a second attempt to fashion out a new Constitution with different rules. The agreement states that, a group of 50 directly-elected constitutional advisors will draft the Constitution, based on a preliminary draft prepared by a Commission of 24 experts appointed by Congress. Additionally, a 14-member body appointed by Congress was to ensure that the proposed text aligns with the 12 institutional and fundamental principles outlined in the Agreement for Chile”

There is precedent for this sort of approach, in far away Chile. Although Chile is not as diverse a country as Nigeria, it does at least boast of being the longest and narrowest country in the world. For over 40 years, Chile had been operating under a Constitution that was bequeathed to it by it’s former military dictator, General Augustus Pinochet; but, in recent years they started becoming disgruntled, agitated and intolerant of the imperfections of their Constitution, culminating in October 2019 of mass protests that rocked the Chilean capital of Santiago and many other cities in the country. These strikes were reminiscent in many respects, of the #EndSARS movement that engulfed us here in Nigeria just a few years ago. The critical and significant difference being that, the Chilean uprising, unlike ours here in Nigeria, transformed into a minirevolution that forced the Government to act and organise a national plebiscite, asking whether or not Chileans wanted to rewrite their existing Constitution. The following year, on 25th October, 2020 to be precise, the government held the plebiscite seeking to reform the Constitution dating back from the years of military dictatorship under General Pinochet. The Pinochet military regime (just like that of General Abdulsalam here in Nigeria in 1999), had foisted upon the Chilean people, a Constitution of which they had little say or input. The Constitution stood in place, for over 40 years. A simple question was put to them, asking whether or not Chileans wanted to rewrite their Constitution. Proponents of ‘Apruebo’ (I approve) viewed the idea of a new constitution as a means to expand democratic freedoms and participation, as well as overcome deep rooted social inequalities. Those in the opposite camp, ‘Rechazo’ (I reject) were opposed to the drafting of a fundamentally new charter, suggesting that the process could result in the erosion of fundamental democratic principles and open a Pandora’s box of unknown economic and social consequences, just like some of our concerns here.

A second question on the October ballot, had to do with the mechanism for drafting a new Constitution. At stake were two different procedural models, namely the election of an entirely new Constituent Assembly, or a hybrid model of current Legislators in addition to elected citizens. The Patriots didn’t consider this important feature, in writing a new Constitution. It was further agreed that if Chilean citizens did vote to approve a new

Constitution, a subsequent vote would be held to choose the representatives who would draft the Constitution. A final vote approving the draft of the new Constitution, was then scheduled to take place later in 2022.

It is worth noting that, the 25th of October, 2020 Plebiscite date was itself rescheduled from an earlier date, due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The date of the exit Plebiscite was also modified. It was projected to take place in September of the third quarter of 2022, at the latest. In April 2022, it was announced that the referendum would be held on the 4th of September, 2022. It is important to note that, Chileans ultimately voted for the hybrid system in redrafting their Constitution, made up of some existing Legislators and others specifically elected into a Convention tasked with the responsibility of drafting the new Constitution. The new Constitution as drafted, was once again put to the Chilean people for their approval in another plebiscite, but the people rejected it as being too radical. As a consequence, the old Constitution continues to operate until a new draft Constitution is approved.

In the interim, lawmakers then announced a new process, the “Agreement for Chile” in December 2022, in a second attempt to fashion out a new Constitution with different rules. The agreement states that a group of 50 directly-elected constitutional advisors will draft the Constitution, based on a preliminary draft prepared by a Commission of 24 experts appointed by Congress. Additionally, a 14-member body appointed by Congress was to ensure that the proposed text aligns with the 12 institutional and fundamental principles outlined in the Agreement for Chile. Although the entire process has not been perfect, there can be no doubting the transparency of the Chilean approach, and the determination of the people to ultimately come up with a workable Constitution acceptable to the vast majority of Chileans.

Conclusion

The Patriots would do well to study and possibly adopt the Chilean template, while also noting the possible pitfalls that may be encountered along the way. This should be the talking point in the President’s bid for a second term which would secure his legacy, or alternatively, the opposition’s bid to form a new government whichever the case may be; but, let’s keep this fundamental issue of debate on the front burner.

Stephen Kola-Balogun, Legal Practitioner, This Day Lawyer Columnist - “My Brief by SKB”

'Insecurity in Plateau is Premeditated Genocide and Land Grabbing'

It used to be the envy of other States in Nigeria, as it was once the jewel of tourism of the nation. But, today, Plateau State has gradually become a sort of theatre of war, as marauding terrorists, insurgents and criminals continue their incessant violent attacks on hapless communities in the hitherto peaceful State. In an engaging chat over the weekend, the Plateau State Attorney-General and commissioner for Justice, Philemon Daffi narrated to onikepo Braithwaite and Jude Igbanoi his aspirations, challenges and successes as a-G of one of the most troubled States in Nigeria, referring to the insecurity the State is currently facing as Genocide, and a deliberate attempt to displace Plateau indigenes and take over their land, because the State is endowed with arable land that is also rich in mineral resources

Hon. Attorney-General, kindly, share the highlights of the agenda you set for your Ministry and yourself on your assumption of office. How have you performed so far? What is the state of the Laws of Plateau State? It is on record that you have initiated many Bills before the Plateau State House of Assembly. Have they been passed? What in-

novations have you initiated since assumption of office to enhance speedier justice delivery, including digitalisation and digitisation of procedures?

Upon assuming office, I set a clear agenda anchored on six key result areas:

1. Providing fair and equal access to justice

We are committed to ensuring that justice is not a privilege for

“…. we have proposed a Bill to Plateau State House of Assembly for the creation of office of AttorneyGeneral, as separate from Commissioner for Justice. We believe that if the offices are, it will enhance more robust performance and service delivery. The functions and duties present practical and philosophical challenges and/or contradictions……”

a few, but a right for all. We have streamlined legal aid services, strengthened the Citizens Mediation Centre, and expanded access to the Multi-Door Courthouse system. We have actively promoted legal awareness campaigns across communities, to educate citizens on their rights. Furthermore, we have initiated community outreach programmes in rural areas, bringing mediation and legal services closer to the people.

2. Ensuring Justice processes are user-sensitive and understandable

Our justice system must serve the people, and for that, it must be accessible, user-friendly, and transparent. We have, through the Plateau State Justice Reform Team, simplified filing procedures, made court forms more understandable, and introduced user-friendly guides for self-representation in minor matters. The Ministry has also initiated customer service desks at key offices, to assist citizens

and demystify justice processes. We are currently and radically revising procedural laws to make them less cumbersome, and more responsive to modern realities.

3. Delivering efficient, cost-effective legal services to Government

We have prioritised the delivery of timely and professional legal advice to government agencies, thereby reducing reliance on external Counsel and cutting costs. We strengthened the Ministry's internal legal research capacities, by subscribing to LawPavilion - an online legal research tool - and ensuring every legal officer has access. Additionally, we have enhanced the Ministry’s internet infrastructure for better connectivity and digital workflow, making research, drafting, and communication more efficient.

4. Gaining public confidence in Justice administration

The credibility of our justice system hinges on public trust. We have consistently enforced court judgements, promoted transparency in prosecutions, and upheld the rule of law, irrespective

Plateau State Attorney-General and commissioner for Justice, Philemon Daffi

'Insecurity in Plateau is Premeditated Genocide and Land Grabbing'

of status or political pressure. By addressing long-standing judgement debts, especially the payment of over N4.8 billion judgement debts, we signalled Government’s commitment to justice. Regular media briefings, stakeholder engagements, and community dialogues, have also been institutionalised to foster openness.

5. Enhancing prosecutorial capacity and sector reforms

We have embarked on comprehensive capacity-building programmes for prosecutors, including training on emerging areas like cybercrime, terrorism, and human trafficking, Special Training on Drafting Commercial Transactions PPP, Taxation and Memoranda of Understanding carried out by the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies. The Ministry has invested in prosecutorial tools, established a dedicated Case Review Committee for sensitive matters, and enforced prosecutorial guidelines to ensure fairness and professionalism. Sectoral reforms have included the push for legislative reviews, digitalisation of prosecution records, and inter-agency collaboration with security and law enforcement agencies. We have sponsored 10 staff of the Ministry of Justice to be trained on Legislative Drafting at a Masters Degree level at the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies.

6. State of Plateau State Laws and Legislative Efforts

So far, we have significantly advanced these goals, notably through the comprehensive Law Reform Project - a first in Plateau’s history. We embarked on a sectoral review of 166 laws, with over 70% of the second-level reviews completed. This addresses outdated laws, and strengthens the justice framework for governance and investment.

The laws of Plateau were fragmented, outdated, and in some cases, colonial relics. We discovered that 73% of existing laws predate the 21st century, with some carrying colonial terminologies and fines as low as N500. Through the Law Reform Committee and partnership with PAC Solicitors, we undertook a holistic review, and I personally initiated critical Bills to modernise our legal landscape. Some Bills are already with the House of Assembly, with others awaiting harmonisation post-review.

In the area of legislative initiatives we have proposed and successfully passed five Bills into law; Plateau State Law Reform Commission Law; The Citizens’ Mediation Centre Law; The Electricity Market Law; The Energy Corporation Law; and the Office of the Public Defender Law. We now have a law in the State Assembly,@ to establish the Office of the Attorney-General which has passed 2nd Reading.

Innovations for Speedier Justice Delivery

We initiated digitalisation of case management and court processes, to enhance access and reduce delays. We also strengthened the Multi-Door Courthouse and ADR mechanisms, known as Mediation Centre within the Ministry of Justice Complex, promoting out-of-court settlements, thereby easing court congestion. Our Ministry is on the path to full digitisation of justice services, in line with the best global practices. Please, give an overview of your Ministry’s strengths and challenges so far. Justice sector reforms, prosecutorial capacity, rate of convictions, prison congestions, etc.

Our strength lies in our professional staff and para-legals, commitment to justice reforms, and the Governor’s support. Challenges include case backlog, prison congestion, outdated infrastructure, and the evolving complexity of securityrelated prosecutions. However, we are addressing these through capacity building, prosecutorial training, and legislative reforms.

We have improved prosecutorial capacity through targeted training for prosecutors, investigators, and Magistrates. We have handled 460 criminal cases, and legal advice proffered in all, 340 cases filed. We have secured 42 convictions.

We addressed prison congestion through the operations of the Office of the Public Defender, which

“The security situation in Plateau State, is a pre-meditated Onslaught/Genocide….Simply put, our case is a case of genocide and land grabbing, as opposed to the deliberately sponsored and financed narrative of ‘farmers-herders clashes’. Period! There are clear elements of criminality, terrorism, and ethnic cleansing….Some people…think we do not deserve to live….where the surface is lush and the bowels of the land is sufficiently pregnant with all kinds of precious metals and stupendous resources. They think that their ancestors’ failed attempt at grabbing our land, must be perpetrated”

secured Bail for 304 detainees and processed 74 others to court.

How well have you balanced your role as AG which is more or less acting as the State Government’s Lawyer and that of the people, and Commissioner for Justice which apart from managing your Ministry, includes creating good policies for your State. Some have argued that there is a clash in the roles, even in the capacity of AG as Lawyer to the Government and the people, and there has been a debate as to whether the office of the Attorney-General should be separated from that of Commissioner for Justice. Have you experienced this clash in these roles? Do you believe that the two offices should be separated, and the roles clearly set out?

The dual role, requires a delicate balance. As AG, I am the legal adviser to the Government; as Commissioner, I ensure justice policies benefit the public. While some advocate for splitting the roles, I believe that with integrity and clear policy direction - as we have done, both mandates can coexist without conflict. However, institutional clarity remains a valid debate, and we have proposed a Bill to Plateau State House of Assembly for the creation of office of Attorney-General, as separate from Commissioner for Justice. We believe that if the offices are, it will enhance more robust performance and service delivery. The functions and duties present practical and philosophical challenges and/or contradictions accordingly, as we earlier posited, we have presented an Executive Bill for the establishment of the office of the Attorney-General, as a statutory and an autonomous office within the governance structure of our State. This is in consonance with best practices and constitutional expectations, and it seeks to clarify and separate these functions to ensure better service delivery both to Government and our people.

What are your biggest chal-

lenges as AG of one of the most troubled States in Nigeria?

My biggest challenge is prosecuting crime amid insecurity, resource constraints, and political complexities the proclivity of both State and non-State actors. The threat from insurgents and criminal networks, complicates law enforcement and prosecution. However, with the help of God almighty, no mountain is unsurmountable. We are doing our best to ensure that, we overcome the security and political challenges.

Plateau has been on the boil for years now due to criminal activities of insurgents, terrorists and herdsmen. What is the attraction of Plateau to these terrorists and criminals? Though some have called the security in your State Farmer-Herder crisis, many have denied it, saying that they are unprovoked attacks, even going as far as calling it genocide. Your Governor has blamed insecurity in the State on political differences, while others blame it on ethnic and religious differences. How exactly is it or do you see it? What, in your view, is the cause of these frequents attacks?

The security situation in Plateau State, is a pre-meditated Onslaught/ Genocide.

There are essentially three kinds of warfare on the planet, and all have consistently been deployed against Plateau State over the years; they are kinetic, information and economic. Simply put, our case is a case of genocide and land grabbing, as opposed to the deliberately sponsored and financed narrative of ‘farmers-herders clashes’. Period! There are clear elements of criminality, terrorism, and ethnic cleansing. We’ve seen coordinated attacks that defy simplistic narratives. Some people somewhere sit out there, and think we do not deserve to live in the beauty and ambiance of nature that God has provided for us ex Gracia, where the surface is lush and the bowels of the land is sufficiently pregnant with all kinds of precious

Plateau State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Philemon Daffi

'Insecurity in Plateau is Premeditated Genocide and Land Grabbing'

metals and stupendous resources. They think that their ancestors’ failed attempt at grabbing our land, must be perpetrated. We are resolved, more than ever before, to defend the land using legal and legitimate established frameworks. It can never be in our lifetime, that our land will be taken over by miscreants and bandits. The State remains committed to justice for victims, and tackling the root causes through policy and legal reforms.

The persistent insecurity in Plateau State, is neither accidental nor random. It is a calculated, systematic campaign - often spearheaded by armed militias - aimed at dispossessing indigenous communities of their ancestral lands. The grim pattern is familiar: villages are invaded under the cover of darkness, defenceless native farmers are killed, survivors are displaced, and the attackers seize the abandoned lands, occupying homes and cultivating farmlands that belong to the natives and rename the villages. These facts are traceable and verifiable, any day and time. This strategy of violent displacement, brazen land grabbing, and demographic conquest threatens the cultural, economic, and territorial integrity of Plateau State.

What has the State Government done to stem these attacks against the people of Plateau, after all, the Governor is the Chief Security of the State? The way Nigeria’s security architecture has been designed, are States equipped enough to handle insecurity? Do you think the Federal Government is doing enough to fight insecurity in the Benue Plateau?

Governor Mutfwang has strengthened community engagements, improved security collaboration, and invested in peace-building agencies. While the constitutional limits on State control of security remain, Plateau is not passive - we are proactive within legal bounds.

Despite constitutional constraints, the administration of Governor Caleb Mutfwang has refused to fold its arms. We have reinforced community engagement, encouraged local intelligence gathering, and enhanced collaboration with conventional security agencies. Our investment in peace-building institutions and conflict resolution mechanisms, underscores our belief that sustainable peace requires both proactive governance and community participation. While the constitutional limitations hinder direct control over security apparatuses, Plateau State continues to utilise every legal avenue to protect its people and territory.

The centralised security structure, has limitations. States like Plateau, need constitutional empowerment for local security management. We advocate for greater devolution of security responsibilities.

Nigeria’s centralised security framework - where policing and armed

security are the exclusive preserve of the Federal Government - is outdated and ill-suited for modern security challenges, especially those with local dimensions like we face in Plateau. The result is a sluggish, often reactive security response. By the time Federal commands are issued, lives have been lost, homes destroyed, and communities displaced. This gap between Federal authority and local reality, demands a fundamental restructuring of Nigeria’s security architecture.

We therefore, advocate for constitutional reform that places security on the Concurrent Legislative List, allowing States to establish, manage, and command their own security outfits, working in tandem with Federal agencies. Security is too important - and too immediate - to be left solely in the hands of distant Federal command structures.

What are your views on State Police? Will its establishment help to curb insecurity?

State Police is a necessary Constitutional imperative. We strongly support the creation of State Police and Community Policing frameworks. Plateau’s complex terrain and peculiar security dynamics, require localised, culturally aware and rapidly deployable security structures. Indigenous security operatives, drawn from the communities they serve, understand the terrain, the people, and the unique flashpoints. They are bet-

“Nigeria’s centralised security framework - where policing and armed security are the exclusive preserve of the Federal Government - is outdated and ill-suited for modern security challenges, especially those with local dimensions like we face in Plateau. The result is a sluggish, often reactive security response….The establishment of State Police is not a political option - it is a national necessity for the protection of lives, properties, and constitutional rights”

ter positioned to prevent attacks, respond swiftly, and de-escalate tensions.

The establishment of State Police is not a political option - it is a national necessity for the protection of lives, properties, and constitutional rights.

I strongly support, the establishment of State Police. Plateau’s unique security challenges require localised intelligence and response mechanisms, which Federal agencies alone cannot ever effectively provide.

Your State used to be a prime location for tourists, local and international, with a temperate weather, pristine, picturesque scenery and many attractions. This, no doubt, has been negatively impacted by insecurity. What plans does the Government have to ensure that Plateau gets back its status as the number one choice destination in Africa for tourists?

We are combining security reforms with legal and policy initiatives, to promote tourism. Our goal is to restore investor and tourist confidence through a stable, secure, and legally conducive environment.

Peace and security are the bedrock of socio-economic development. Plateau State, once celebrated for its scenic landscapes, hospitable climate, and vibrant cultural heritage, is committed to reclaiming its place as Nigeria’s tourism jewel.

To this end, we are marrying security reforms with legislative and policy initiatives aimed at restoring investor confidence, promoting tourism, and fostering a stable, law-abiding society. By ensuring a secure, peaceful, and legally conducive environment, we invite tourists, investors, and partners to experience the best of Plateau - a land of peace, beauty, and opportunity.

It was recently reported that your State cleared a total of N573 million judgement debts. This is unprecedented. How did you as AG, persuade the

Governor Mutfwang to do this?

Many have even criticised Section 84 of the Sheriffs & Civil Process Act 1945 as a stumbling block to Government and its agencies paying judgement debts, because of the prior approval required from the AGF or AGS as the case may be, before judgement debts can be paid despite court orders and the genuineness of the claim. Kindly, comment on this

This achievement, underscores our commitment to justice. The Governor and indeed, the Government, likes and enjoys respecting and obeying court judgements, which enhances Government’s credibility, After all, he is one of the greatest beneficiaries of court judgements in the 21st century.

On Section 84 of the Sheriffs & Civil Process Act, it indeed, poses practical hurdles. While meant to protect public funds, it often delays justice. A reform balancing accountability and enforcement is necessary, hence, the settlement of the Judgement Debts. As the Chief Law Officer of Plateau State, if I do not encourage respect for the decisions of the Courts, we will be setting a dangerous precedent that will not be well with the State and indeed, discredit the profession.

What ADR mechanisms do you have in your State? To what extent do you use them in justice administration?

We’ve enhanced the Multi-Door Courthouse, established Citizens Mediation Centre by legislation, and actively encouraged ADR. These mechanisms have significantly contributed to reducing court congestion, and promoting harmonious dispute resolutions. Our Citizens Mediation Centre, in the last 2 years, received 128 petitions, resolved 73 and has 55 pending. The office of the Public Defender resolved 116 gender based violence cases, detainee bail processing and custodial centre decongestion. These ADR mechanisms have significantly contributed to speeding up justice, and reducing the burden on conventional courts.

Thank you Honourable AttorneyGeneral.

Plateau State Attorney-General and commissioner for Justice, Philemon Daffi

Politics

Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE

Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com

08033025611 sms only

As Senate Holds Special Valedictory Session for Buhari...

In an atmosphere thick with emotion and reverence, the Senate recently held a special valedictory session for former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died in London, the United Kingdom on July 13, 2025, after a brief illness. sunday Aborisade captures the session.

The solemn plenary brought the red chamber to a standstill as senators from across party lines set politics aside to pay tribute to a man they described as a paradox of simplicity and authority, incorruptibility and empathy, discipline and compassion.

It was a session marked by candid recollections, warm memories, and respectful critique, befitting for a man whose leadership journey began in the barracks and ended in the highest office of Nigeria’s democracy.

Opening the tributes, Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele (Ekiti Central) described Buhari as “a gallant soldier and a successful democrat.

He noted that his contributions to Nigeria’s national life were as historic as they were transformative. From his modest beginnings in Daura, Katsina State, where he was raised by his mother, Zulaihat, after the death of his father.

Bamidele recalled how Buhari rose to the height of national service, entering the Nigerian Military Training College in 1962 and receiving his commission a year later.

His military career, the Senate Leader explained, started from fighting in the Nigerian Civil War to becoming Governor of the North-Eastern State and the first Governor of Borno, later serving as Federal Commissioner for Petroleum and founding Chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).

Although not a direct architect of the 1983 coup, Buhari emerged as Head of State in its aftermath, running an anticorruption regime anchored on the War Against Indiscipline (WAI), until his ouster in 1985, Bamidele clarified.

Despite the controversy surrounding his military leadership, Bamidele emphasized that Buhari’s loyalty to the Nigerian project was never in doubt.

After retiring from military service, the ranking Senator said Buhari’s second act came in the form of democratic ambition.

Bamidele said, “He (Buhari) contested presidential elections in 2003, 2007, and 2011 before finally winning in 2015 under the All Progressives Congress (APC), becoming the second Nigerian,

after Olusegun Obasanjo, to rule both as a soldier and as a civilian president.”

As senators took turns to eulogize him, it became clear that Buhari’s legacy was not one-dimensional. He was as much remembered for his policies, some divisive, others widely praised, as he was for his personal conduct.

Senator Henry Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa West) offered a nuanced tribute. “I had my disagreements with some of his policies, especially the removal of the Chief Justice, the currency redesign, and the failure to restructure the country. But I never doubted his integrity,” he said.

“Despite our political differences, during my re-election, he ensured a free and fair process. That spoke volumes,” Dickson added.

Former Senate President, Ahmad Lawan spoke from years of close proximity to the late president. “He left behind no property, no wealth, just a legacy of service. That’s the essence of life,” he said, praising Buhari’s rare sense of self-denial and simplicity in an era of conspicuous consumption.

Senator Adams Oshiomhole shared a deeply personal moment that underscored Buhari’s confidence in those he trusted. “He once sent me to represent him in Turkey. For someone from my background, that was a great honour. He gave me wings I never imagined I’d earn.”

A chorus of voices affirmed a consistent theme. Buhari’s incorruptibility.

Senator Mohammed Monguno recounted a moment that revealed Buhari’s resistance to even symbolic forms of impropriety.

“After a dinner at the Villa, I joked that we Kanuris and Fulanis used to leave with brown envelopes. He looked at me and said, ‘I won’t give you any envelope. I’ve been to Kirikiri once, and I don’t plan to go back.’”

Monguno, however, clarified that the conversation was lighthearted and not reflective of any actual corrupt practice, but underscored the president’s firm anticorruption stance.

Senate President, Godswill Akpabio cautioned against politicizing anecdotes.

“When you said brown envelope, you were referring to transport, not corruption,” he further clarified. Still, the room understood the underlying truth: Buhari’s integrity was uncompromising, often to a fault.

What was perhaps most striking about the Senate’s tribute was the attention paid to Buhari’s lesser-known compassion.

Akpabio shared the story of a woman arrested in Lagos during the WAI era for street trading.

“Instead of jailing her, Buhari intervened, arranged for her children to be enrolled in school, and provided funds to relocate her to a legal market stall,” Akpabio explained.

“Discipline was his public image but compassion was his hidden strength,” the Senate President further stated.

He also remembered a time when Buhari postponed reassigning a minister simply so the minister’s family could enjoy their

This was not merely a legislative formality, but a national reckoning with the life of a man who gave structure to chaos, demanded order in disorder, and left behind a nation still grappling with the high standards he set. In a country where public service is often marred by the scandal and forgotten legacies, the senate’s valedictory for Buhari was a reminder that character, however complex or contested, endures beyond the corridors of power.

weekend in peace. “It wasn’t a sack letter, just a reassignment. But he thought of the man’s children first. That tells you the depth of his humanity.”

Senator Abdulaziz Yari offered a poignant recollection of Buhari’s hesitation to enter politics.

He said, “In 2000, we asked him to run for office. He said no. He feared that if the people voted for him and he was rigged out, there could be protests and people might die. That’s not a man chasing power. That’s a man thinking of lives.”

Yari recounted that it was only after clerics urged him not to ignore the call of the people that Buhari finally agreed to run in 2003.

“He (Buhari) believed that if the people asked and he refused, God might one day ask him why he said no. And so, he came,” he said.

In its final act of tribute, the Senate passed three unanimous resolutions: a minute of silence in Buhari’s honour, commendation of the federal government for the state burial, and a recommendation that a national monument be named after him to immortalize his service.

Lawan commended President Bola Tinubu for the dignified burial and observance of national mourning, including a week-long suspension of Senate activities. “This is the minimum standard we must now adopt as a nation,” he said.

Akpabio echoed the sentiment of his predecessor saying: “This Senate has done the right thing by recording in its books not just the death of a former president, but the life of a man who gave Nigeria everything he had.”

As Senators rose for a final minute of silence, the gravity of the moment was clear.

This was not merely a legislative formality, but a national reckoning with the life of a man who gave structure to chaos, demanded order in disorder, and left behind a nation still grappling with the high standards he set.

In a country where public service is often marred by the scandal and forgotten legacies, the Senate’s valedictory for Buhari was a reminder that character, however complex or contested, endures beyond the corridors of power.

Buhari

Akpabio

Bamidele

Oluwagboye: Impact of Digitvant MFB’s Flagship Product has Extended Beyond Financial Lifeline

Oluchi Chibuzor

The Chairman, Board of Directors, Digitvant MFB, Mr Kayode John Oluwagboye, has said that the impact of its flagship product, Market Monie has extended beyond the financial lifeline the bank has given to over 50,000 businesses, but the dignity that is integral in its service.

Oluwagboye who stated this during a press conference to unveil the bank in Lagos, said while the bank is in business to make profit, it will not do so at the expense of the dignity and self esteem of its customers.

“This is one of the things that stand us out as you will hear from some of our customers during this event. This is because we are Digitvant Microfinance Bank: a digitally driven financial institution

with a human heart. A key decision that the Board took at the very foundation of this bank is the appointment of a female Managing Director in person of Mrs. Florence Ogunyamoju. This was not a token appointment nor an affirmative action but a deliberate, strategic choice,” he said.

The bank, he added, will transform the financial lives of millions across Nigeria, directly and indirectly, starting from the informal markets, to emerging entrepreneurs, and those who might not be considered ‘attractive prospects’ by traditional banking structures.

“At Digitvant, we have not only opened our doors to the public; we have opened opportunities, pathways, and access points to dignity, growth, and financial inclusion for Nigerians.

“So how did we get here? We envisioned a bank that would meet people where they are: in their daily hustles, in the rhythm of market life, in the aspirations of micro and small business owners. A bank that would speak the language of simplicity, accessibility, and trust. A bank that would leverage digital tools not for elitism, but for empowerment. A bank they could call their own,” he said.

Speaking, the Managing Director of the bank, Mrs Florence Ogunyamoju said Digitvant MFB is fully licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and insured by the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC).

She said the bank operate at the intersection of microfinance and digital innovation, offering a robust model that promotes economic empowerment and sustainable financial inclusion.

APMT Unveils One-yearTransition Plan to Solar-powered Operations

APM Terminals Apapa has announced a one-year road map towards its transition from reliance on diesel as a fuel source to gas, and eventually to solar and battery powered solutions.

This was made known in a press statement by the Terminal Manager, Steen Knudsen to the press over the weekend.

He said, “As a company, we acknowledge transition is not an overnight journey and so we have designed a roadmap on how we move from current state to future state where our operations are fully decarbonised. “Currently, we have commissioned two new CNG generators of 4MW capacity in our terminal which is shifting our reliance from diesel to gas as a fuel source for our power generation. This step also resonates with

the Nigerian’s government’s commitment towards using gas for power generation.”

Knudsen added that with this shift, all the terminal’s reefer plugs, buildings and lighting will be powered by gas. He said the replacing diesel with gas a fuel source, would reduce the terminal’s carbon emissions, while continuing the transition into more environmentally friendly options, as more sustainable and renewable energy solutions become available.

He said, “In the next six to twelve months, we will further decarbonise our operations through onsite solar solution which will further displace our consumption by up to 30% and increase our self-generation capabilities.

“We are dedicated to reducing our carbon footprint

worldwide, aiming for net zero emissions by 2040. Our approach integrates sustainable practices that boost efficiency while minimizing environmental impact.”

Head of Procurement, APM Terminals Nigeria, Chinyere Adenaike, described the terminal’s goal as achieving its net zero ambition through full electrification of the terminal equipment as well as 100% reliance on renewable electricity to power operations.

She said, “This vision can only be achieved through strong commitment and deeper collaboration from government as well as through private investments in order to strengthen critical power infrastructure and introducing favourable regulations enabling this energy transition and sustainable port operations.”

FCMB Hosts ICCN Banking Commission, Calls for Trade Interventions

First City Monument Bank (FCMB) and stakeholders in international trade, under the auspices of the International Chamber of Commerce Nigeria (ICCN) Banking Commission, have advocated sustainable solutions and interventions aimed at empowering Nigerian businesses to seize opportunities within the global market. They stated that by fostering innovative and futurefocused solutions, the country can enhance its competitiveness, facilitate trade connectivity and support the long-term growth of its export sector. The stakeholders made the call at the commission’s general meeting, hosted by FCMB in Lagos. The gathering brought together industry leaders, key

stakeholders, and banking professionals to address vital issues, exchange insights, and develop collaborative strategies regarding the trajectory of international trade and commerce in Nigeria.

In her remarks at the meeting, FCMB’s Executive Director, Corporate Services and Service Management, Felicia Obozuwa, said: “In today’s rapidly evolving global economy, it is essential that we respond to emerging challenges and also take proactive measures to offer solutions that lead to sustainable growth. The opportunity for Nigeria to bolster its position in international trade is considerable.”

Also speaking, the Chairman of the ICCN Banking Commission, Dr. (Mrs.) Omolara Akanji said:

“International trade is not just a pathway for economic growth, but a bridge that connects us to the global marketplace. Banks play a vital role in this ecosystem; they are trade facilitators, providing the financial services that empower our exporters to compete and thrive on the world stage. ICCN Banking Commission will continue strengthening the collaboration between the banking sector and businesses, ensuring that every Nigerian entrepreneur has the support they need to reach international markets and contribute to our nation’s prosperity. We are committed to using artificial intelligence tools to drive this. We commend FCMB for playing a vital role towards achieving the objectives of the

Guinness Announced as Gold Sponsor for BBNaija 10

Guinness Nigeria has charged Nigerian youth on creativity and resilience, in tandem with the brand’s vision.

The firm which recently announced its partnership with Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) as Gold Sponsor of season 10, explained that the move underscores its mission to Inspire and support the country’s vibrant youth.

Marketing and Innovations

Director at Guinness Nigeria, Yinka Bakare stated that the partnership marks a strategic alignment between both Guinness and BBNaija, now in its tenth edition.

She said,”As the show celebrates a decade of unforgettable entertainment, we are stepping into the spotlight to bring the bold experiences, authentic connections, and extraordinary moments it is

known for to viewers across the continent.”

Also commenting on the partnership, CEO of Multichoice Nigeria, John Ugbe said, “Guinness is a brand that speaks directly to the passion and creativity of the BBNaija audience. Their involvement this season is a natural fit, and we’re thrilled to have them on board to elevate the experience for our fans.”

Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya),

(Nigeria),

(Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

Ellah Lakes Gets Shareholders’ Approval to Raise N250bn via Public Offer

Kayode Tokede

The management of Ellah Lakes Plc has gotten shareholders’ approval to raise up to N250 billion in equity capital via public offer, private placement or other equity issuance instruments.

This was part of the resolutions shareholders approved during the company’s Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) held in Lagos.

The shareholders also

approved of the company’s long-term strategic transformation that include: acquisition of a major agricultural asset, which expands Ellah Lakes’ operational footprint and accelerating its’ national agribusiness growth strategy, conversion of existing director and shareholder loans into equity, strengthening the companys’ balance sheet and financial structure.

The management also got shareholders’ approval to in-

crease the company’s authorised share capital to accommodate the forthcoming equity issuance and transaction-related share allocations.

These decisions reflect a unified commitment by the Board and shareholders to position Ellah Lakes as a scalable, vertically integrated agricultural platform focused on delivering sustainable value.

Speaking to shareholders, Managing Director/CEO, Ellah

Lakes, Mr. Chuka Mordi, said, “We are truly excited about the transformational potential of this transaction, which is expected to position Ellah Lakes among the top five agribusiness producers in Nigeria.

“With Nigeria’s population growth driving long-term demand for food and agricultural processing and given the scale of assets we are bringing on board, we anticipate an addition of over N200 billion to our

balance sheet. This expansion sets the stage for accelerated revenue growth, with measurable impact expected by Q1 2027.”

Over the last financial year, Ellah Lakes recorded significant operational and infrastructure progress, part of which are N68.7 million in third quarter (Q3 2025) revenue from sales, representing a transition into early-stage commercial activity.

Revenue has begun to

materialise from initial harvests and pre-commercial outputs, reflecting execution of its’ operational rollout and launching of its piggery business, designed to supply affordable, locally produced protein to the domestic market. The Agribusiness diversification initiative is anchored by internal feed production and supported by bioenergy solutions, reinforcing cost efficiency and sustainability.

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF JULY/28/25

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AMCON’S QUIET REFORMS

AMCON’s subtle transformation provides a significant lesson, argues PAT ONUKWULI

See page XV

EPIDEMIC OF FAKE DOCUMENTS

ILIYASU GASHINBAKI contends that the growing cases of forged documents reflect a deeper crisis of trust and accountability

See page XV

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The issues raised by Abduljelili El-Okene are unfortunate, reckons TUNDE OLUSUNLE

OKUNLAND AND PROSPECTS OF "AWALOKAN" IN 2027 KOGI GUBER POLITICS

A titleless piece authored by a certain "Comrade Adabara Abduljelili El-Okene," made the rounds on the social media last weekend. Shared on many platforms peopled largely by the OkunYoruba of Kogi State, the kernel of the piece was the insinuation of a *growing pattern of marginalisation of the Ebira people of Kogi State, by Nigerian Presidents from the Yoruba country.* Two of such Presidents, Abduljelili Okene observes in his missive, are Olusegun Obasanjo who served between 1999 and 2007, and Bola Tinubu, the incumbent who has been in office since 2023. ElOkene is an unknown quantity in national public intellection. The sole plausible claim of his script to authenticity, which should command a rejoinder, is a telephone number affixed to his payoff line at the bottom of the document. Aside from being an eternal student of Nigeria's sociopolitics, I am myself from Kogi State.

Just so Abduljelili El-Okene knows a bit about me, I served three Governors of the state, the departed pioneer democratically elected Abubakar Audu, and his military successors, Colonels Paul Omeruo and Bzigu Afakirya, of blessed memory, between 1992 and 1997. For the avoidance of doubt, I was Director of Information and Public Affairs to Audu, and Chief Press Secretary to Omeruo and Afakirya. Substantially, I am a repertory of invaluable knowledge about sociopolitical fluxes in Kogi State through its evolution. In addition to this, I was a very close personal staff to Obasanjo all through the eight year duration of his regime. Having worked as his media attache during his pre-election campaign which began in the last quarter of 1998, I was subsequently appointed by him and deployed to the ante-room of his office, overlooking his oakwood desk and swivel chair in his armor-glazed office. I encountered and engaged with tons and tons of paperwork. Not many people are better qualified than I am, to perspectivise the issues raised by Abduljelili El-Okene.

Let me begin by educating Adabara El-Okene, that Obasanjo indeed took a well-informed decision to pragmatically mitigate the scripted exclusion and marginalisation of Okunland from state politics, during his regime. All through Obasanjo’s eight years in Aso Villa, the predominantly Igalaspeaking Kogi Eastern zone, produced Abubakar Audu and Ibrahim Idris, who succeeded Audu as Governor, in 2003. All through these eight years, the *Ebiras produced the Deputy Governors in the recently transited Patrick Adaba, mni, and Philip Salawu. Salawu remained in office for eight years with Idris, both exiting office in January 2012.* A sensitive Obasanjo availed Okunland some reprieve from domestic political asphyxiation by ensuring that all four Ministers he appointed in his administration, were from that part of Kogi State. As against Adebara's jumbled ordering of the list, General David Jemibewon, CFR, (Police Affairs); Chief Kola Jamodu, CON; (Commerce and Industry); Professor Eyitayo Lambo, (Health), and Chief Bayo Ojo, SAN, CON, served the Obasanjo era in that sequence. I should add that Prince Olusola Akanmode, who was tapped by Obasanjo’s deputy, Vice President Atiku Abubakar, GCON, as his Chief of Staff, had but his solid, sterling credentials to qualify him for the job

Despite the fact that El-Okene's Ebira kinsfolk

locked down the position of Deputy Governor of Kogi State all through his years in office, *Obasanjo appointed other respected Ebira technocrats into key positions in his government. Former banker, Alhaji Usman Bello who vied for, but lost in his bid to be Governor of Kogi State in 1999, was promptly compensated by Obasanjo who appointed him Nigeria's Ambassador to Sudan, a position he held for four years. Engineer Joseph Makoju, CON, and Dr Onukaba Adinoyi-Ojo, both sadly of blessed memory, were Special Adviser on Power, and Managing Director of the Daily Times of Nigeria Plc, respectively. Following the privatisation of the Daily Times in 2003, Onukaba was taken up by Obasanjo’s deputy, Vice President Atiku Abubakar, GCON, as Media Adviser during Obasanjo’s second term in office. Within Obasanjo’s time in office, one of his closest aides, the late Wisdom Baiye, from Ebiraland, a career diplomat and Ambassador, was Deputy Chief of Protocol and Presidential Interpreter. You don't get closer to a President than that.*

Abduljelili El-Okene remembers that Mohammed Bello Adoke, SAN, CFR, was Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, (AGF), under the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan, GCFR, between 2010 and 2015. He is, however, silent on the fact that *Austin Oniwon, who is also Ebira, was Group Managing Director, (GMD), of the coveted Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, (NNPC), also under Jonathan. Within the Nigerian governance scheme, being GMD of the NNPC is better preferred than being Minister in several ministries. Yusuf Abubakar, a retired Army General also from the Ebira nationality, was Ambassador of Nigeria to South Korea, within the duration of the subsisting Fourth Republic.*

To refresh Abduljelili El-Okene's mind, if political capital is to be measured by totalitarian capture of state power, his people have made a good job of their eventful occupation of *Lugard House, Lokoja,* seat of administration of Kogi State within the past 10 years. Yahaya Bello's fortuitous advent as Governor of Kogi State in January 2016, has consolidated Ebira dominance of the levers of the politics of the state. Abubakar Audu who was coasting home as flag bearer of the All Progressives Congress, (APC), in the November 2015 gubernatorial poll during which he contested against the erstwhile incumbent, Captain Idris Wada, of the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP), died mysteriously before the conclusion of the election. Bello who emerged second in the primary which was to produce Audu as Governor, became the "beneficiary" of the electoral votes

already garnered by Audu, in an unprecedented, most astounding, even uncanny turn of events. Bello's eight year rule dug deep gashes on the minds of the generality of Kogi indigenes, which continue to ache even till this day. He pampered his people with projects and political patronage. His style was famously totalitarian and absolutist. He privileged himself a "third term" by singlehandedly recruiting and anointing his biological cousin as they say, Ahmed Ododo, as successor. Bello, for the information of Abduljelili El-Okene, has assumed the role of self-styled godfather of Ebira politics. In Ododo's teething weeks as Governor, he affirmed to his kinsmen, Bello is the supremo who could overrule him as Governor on any subject related to Ebira sociopolitics!

Bello announced while hosting political leaders from Okunland during a recent yuletide visit to him, that "discussions about power shift to that part of the state, can only be negotiated when his protege, Ododo, must have completed his second term in 2031!" This is on record. El-Okene will do well to surf the internet to find the relevant video clip. Bello is standing trial on allegations of corrupt misappropriation of over N100Billion, during his eight-year quasi-fascism. His recent request to seek medical attention abroad mid-trial, was flatly rejected by the court hearing his matter, which admonished him to seek treatment in the "world class hospital" he reportedly built in Okene, the political and cultural headquarters of Kogi Central district. Bello recently unleashed a N1.2Billion, ($30million) customised *Escalade-based armored Rezvani Vengeance SUV,* reputed to be one of the "world's toughest three-row SUVs." He has also taken a fourth wife, consolidating his place as contemporary god of Kogi politics.

Abduljelili El-Okene's disappointment with Tinubu for not consulting with the "incumbent Governor of Kogi State or Ebira stakeholders" before making appointments close to the heart of his people, is palpable, albeit laughable. That Tinubu has elected to compensate the family of late Governor Audu a major figure in Nigeria's Third and Fourth Republic politics by appointing his son Shaibu, (Igalaland) Minister for Steel, is distressing to El-Okene. That Tinubu has also looked the way of Okunland in his choice of Professor Nasir Naeem Abdulsalam as Managing Director of the Ajaokuta Steel Company, is equally vexatious to ElOkene. It must be stated very unambiguously that it is presumptuous of him or any other person for that matter, to think the President owes them any obligations whatsoever in make his preferences and decisions. The buck stops on his desk. The database of qualified Nigerians across disciplines available to the President is humongous. His obligation to Nigerians is to make the best decisions in the interest of the generality of his constituents, irrespective of ethnicity or religion. Come to think of it, Tinubu could well have appointed an indigene of his home state, Lagos as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, (FCTA), for the period of his sojourn in State House, Abuja! Olusunle, PhD, Fellow of the Association of Nigerian Authors, (FANA), is an Adjunct Professor of Creative Writing at the University of Abuja

AMCON’s subtle transformation provides a significant lesson, argues PAT ONUKWULI

AMCON’S QUIET REFORMS

In every nation's economic history, there are moments when rescuing institutions also becomes a restoration of values.

Nigeria’s struggle with systemic debt and banking instability is not just a story of toxic loans and failed institutions.

It is also a reflection of a deeper national question: whether the rules of engagement between citizens, markets, and the state are guided by fairness and responsibility.

When borrowers default without consequences and lenders operate without restraint, the victim is trust. That trust lies in governance, in justice, and in the belief that the economy rewards effort and respects obligations.

As the political philosopher John Locke once noted, “Where there is no law, there is no freedom.” Without enforced rules and honoured obligations, the economic space becomes not a marketplace but a gamble.

Institutions such as the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) are not merely financial tools; they serve as reminders that opportunity comes with responsibility, and that the legitimacy of economic systems is earned not only through profit but also through fairness and accountability.

AMCON was established in 2010 at the height of a significant financial crisis in Nigeria. The banking sector was on the verge of collapse.

Non-performing loans exceeded 34 per cent. Ten banks were critically undercapitalised, and over N5 trillion in toxic assets threatened to destabilise the economy. The country was on the edge of a financial breakdown that could have escalated into a broader economic catastrophe.

In response, it was set up as a stabilising force. Supported by the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Ministry of Finance, it acquired over N4 trillion in non-performing loans. It issued zero-coupon bonds to inject liquidity into struggling banks.

It removed harmful assets from the balance sheets of commercial banks. The Corporation became a holding ground for financial dysfunction, enabling banks to regain stability and allowing the economy to recover from the brink of collapse.

Initially, this intervention was successful. By 2013, the non-performing loan ratio had fallen to just 5 per cent. AMCON became an unsung hero, operating behind the scenes but essential to Nigeria’s financial recovery.

Over time, however, the Corporation’s sense of urgency began to wane. Litigation slowed asset resolution. Sales stagnated. Public perception budged towards viewing AMCON as a permanent agency rather than a temporary entity.

That narrative, however, is now shifting. Since his appointment as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer in early 2024, Gbenga Alade has begun a subtle yet deliberate recalibration of the Corporation’s vision.

Supported by a revitalised executive team, the Corporation is refocusing on its original purpose. This leadership is not just overseeing an old mandate; it is actively reimagining AMCON’s role in today’s financial landscape, where accountability, efficiency, and closure are not merely aims but standards.

Signs of this new direction are already evident. Over the past year, it has successfully sold several significant assets, including shares in Arik Air and key electricity distribution companies.

Internal data indicate that more than N1.2 trillion in recoveries have been achieved since the

company's inception.

The current government plans to build on this progress with targeted efforts, which are expected to generate substantial recoveries within the next three years.

Asset disposal is now viewed not just as a technical task, but as a strategic priority linked to AMCON’s broader responsibilities to the economy.

Institutional collaboration has also improved. It now works more closely with the Central Bank, the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, and the judiciary.

The adoption of special court procedures for debt-related cases has reduced some of the longstanding delays that previously hampered the Corporation’s recovery efforts.

While challenges remain, this enhanced alignment indicates a cultural shift. The prevailing message is that financial indiscipline should no longer be accepted as the cost of doing business in Nigeria.

The challenges, however, remain considerable. It continues to pursue well-connected debtors whose obligations have endured for years.

Some cases have been in court for over a decade, complicated by evasive tactics and a judicial system that remains slow-moving. The Corporation still manages approximately N4.4 trillion in unresolved obligations.

Many assets under its care are linked to sluggish sectors that attract low investor interest. Despite these hurdles, the current leadership remains focused.

Their aim is not just to recover funds but to demonstrate that a public institution can fulfil its mandate with integrity and precision.

A broader national understanding of its role is urgently required. This is not an institution that exists merely for its purpose. It is a tool created to protect Nigeria’s banking infrastructure and to emphasise that debts must be paid.

When AMCON operates effectively, it sends a clear message to banks, borrowers, and international investors. It shows that Nigeria takes financial governance seriously.

Support is essential for this outcome. Legislators must avoid politicising AMCON’s mandate. The judiciary should continue prioritising commercial enforcement.

Financial institutions must uphold higher ethical standards.

The Nigerian public must also recognise that economic reform involves more than just balances and figures; it also reflects national values.

AMCON functions like a reservoir designed to hold back the floodwaters of any financial crisis.

Once the skies clear, that reservoir should not be hastily dismantled or ignored. It must be maintained until its purpose is truly fulfilled. Only then can it be retired in a way that fortifies the financial environment better than before.

As Nigeria advances towards economic maturity, AMCON’s subtle transformation provides a significant lesson. Institutions matter not only for their actions but also for how they uphold principles of responsibility, fairness, and accountability.

The Corporation may never achieve widespread recognition, but its success will be evident in the resilience of banks, the confidence of investors, and the renewed trust of ordinary Nigerians in the system that shapes their financial future.

Dr. Onukwuli, a governance and public affairs analyst, writes from Bolton, UK.

ILIYASU GASHINBAKI contends that the growing cases of forged documents reflect a deeper crisis of trust and accountability

EPIDEMIC OF FAKE DOCUMENTS

Document fraud has become one of our most corrosive and overlooked threats. From forged degrees and falsified tax certificates to manipulated national IDs, the epidemic of fake documents is not just an administrative headache, it is a crisis eroding democracy, weakening institutions, and sabotaging economic progress. The growing cases of forged documents are not merely administrative lapses; they reflect a deeper crisis of trust and accountability. In 2020, for instance, a landmark Supreme Court ruling disqualified Bayelsa governor-elect David Lyon on the eve of his swearing-in because his running mate, Biobarakuma DegiEremienyo, had submitted forged academic credentials to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The fallout flipped the political landscape overnight, handing victory to the opposition. In 2018, then Federal Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, resigned after an investigation revealed she forged her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) exemption certificate. Her case laid bare how even the highest offices could be breached by document fraud. Even more embarrassing is the involvement of youngsters in this menace. In July 2023, Mmesoma Ejikeme, a 19-year-old, manipulated her United Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) score from 249 to 362 using a forged QR code, briefly positioning herself as the national top scorer. It took weeks of media frenzy, Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) investigation, and public uproar to uncover the truth. It is sobering that between 2021 and 2024, the Federal Ministry of Education blacklisted 18 illegal “foreign” universities operating within and outside the country. These degree mills, I must emphasise, churned out thousands of fake certificates used to gain jobs, public office, and professional recognition. In January 2024 alone, over 1,500 individuals were caught using fake foreign degrees in recruitment processes across both public and private sectors! In 2022, Abidemi Rufai, an aide to the Governor of Ogun State, was convicted in the U.S. for fraudulently claiming over $350,000 in COVID-19 relief funds using stolen identities. His crime may have been committed abroad, but its consequences boomeranged home, reinforcing global suspicion toward Nigerian documentation. Unfortunately, I must confess, the sore issue of document fraud does not stop at just schools and politics. The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) is currently prosecuting 156 companies for submitting forged Tax Clearance Certificates (TCCs) to secure government contracts, a scam that runs into billions of Naira. Document fraud is not only a matter of dishonesty; it poses a direct threat to public safety, credibility, and economic stability. A doctor with a fake license is a killer in waiting. An engineer with forged credentials will approve a plan that can lead to building collapse or other structures including bridges. A public servant with falsified documents can sign away a nation’s wealth. According to a 2023 report by Ask Nigeria, the country ranked 9th in Africa for identity fraud attempts involving national IDs, with an 18% fraud rate. In Q1 of 2023 alone, The Guardian newspapers reported over 82,000 verified data breaches, underscoring the scale of systemic failure in credential security. In today’s digital economy, certificates are more than paper, they are passports to trust. From job applications to electoral contests, from contract bidding to security clearance, documents authenticate not just competence, but character. When this trust collapses, so do systems. The rising tide of forged documentation threatens not only domestic institutions, but Nigeria’s international standing. Honest Nigerian professionals abroad face extra scrutiny while student visa applications are delayed and recruiters question every certificate. One scandal from one individual ripples across the reputation of millions. Document fraud is a national cancer, and forensic science is the scalpel. Happily, the Chartered Institute of Forensics and Certified Fraud Investigators of Nigeria (CIFCFIN) is leading a quiet but critical campaign to combat this crisis. In recent months, CIFCFIN has partnered with the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) to screen electoral candidates

with forensic tools before primaries; proposed collaboration with the Ministry of Interior, National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to support identity management with forensic authentication; proposed forensic audits within educational institutions, electoral bodies, and procurement agencies. But I believe more should be done. I am therefore suggesting the following as panacea to the intractable problem of document fraud in Nigeria. One, collaboration with Chartered Institute of Forensics and Certified Fraud Investigators of Nigeria for the creation of a National Credential Verification Portal to Integrate databases from West African Examination Council (WAEC), JAMB, NYSC, National University Commission (NUC), and professional bodies into a secure, tamper-proof system for real-time document authentication. Two, mandatory Forensic Screening in Public appointments and elections to ensure forensic vetting of certificates and documents. Three, establishment of a Federal Document Fraud Unit (FDFU) under the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) or the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) or the Nigerian Police Force, trained in forensic document examination and empowered to prosecute offenders quickly and publicly.Four, strengthening the NUC and Licensing Oversight bodies such as professional associations to audit degrees issued locally and overseas, and immediately sanction any accredited body that issues false certifications. Five, introducing Mandatory Forensic Training in Higher Education such as Law, ICT, and public administration programmes, to build a next generation workforce that is accountability-literate. Six, establish a public registry to blacklist offenders and digitally flag repeat offenders, with legal oversight for persons disqualified for credential fraud, serving as a deterrent to recurrence. Seven, collaborate Internationally with global institutions to track and trace transnational credential fraud, especially for immigration, education, and employment applications. Document fraud is not just an ethical failing; it is a systemic cancer eroding the foundations of Nigeria’s governance, economy, and global reputation. From politics to education, procurement to public safety, the cost of forged documents is counted in lost lives, failed institutions, and diminished national pride. The evidence is overwhelming; the consequences, undeniable. Yet within this crisis, lies a powerful opportunity for reform. By embracing forensic science, digitizing our verification systems, and embedding integrity into our institutions, Nigeria can begin to restore public trust and international respect.

Dr. Gashinbaki is the Founder/Chairman, Governing Council, Chartered Institute of Forensics and Certified Fraud Investigators of Nigeria. He can be reached at president@cifcfin.org

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

THE PREVALENCE OF LEAD POISONING

There is need to regulate artisanal mining practices

Rich in mineral deposits including gold, Zamfara State first recorded a major lead poisoning epidemic in 2010 in Anka and Bukkuyum Local Government Areas, killing about 400 inhabitants, mainly children. A significant number of the children died within a short period, highlighting the severity of the infection. The poisoning was linked to unsafe artisanal gold mining practices, where gold ore with high lead content was processed in residential areas. Another lead poisoning epidemic seven years later in Yar-Galma village also killed many children, most of them under five years old. The contamination occurred through soil and dust exposure, with children being particularly affected due significantly to hand-to-mouth behaviour and accidental ingestion of contaminated objects.

Despite the ban on illegal mining, the practice is still booming, leading to another outbreak of lead poisoning in Bungudu local government area of the state. Like previous tragedies, the recent incident was traced to unsafe artisanal gold mining practices which led to environmental contamination and the poisoning of hundreds of residents. Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, had warned that mining activities remain on hold until the release of standard operating procedures, but the people are too desperate to care.

dren inhaled to their peril. Therefore, the menace of lead poisoning due principally to the activities of illegal miners is commonplace. Some recent “mysteries” leading to the death of 164 children in Sokoto State were traced to metal poisoning. A decade ago, no fewer than 28 children died after suffering symptoms of convulsions, insomnia and hallucinations in Kawo and Magiro, two remote villages in Niger State. Doctors without Borders (MSF) later discovered that the children died due to extremely high levels of lead in their bodies.

Simba Tirima, an environmental scientist, noted that the outbreak resulted from unregulated rudimentary processing of lead-rich gold ores in the villages.

Traditional institutions and local authorities have a responsibility to ensure that government directives are obeyed

T H I S D AY

EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU

DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE

MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI

EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN

Artisanal mining is a poverty-driven activity that is widespread in many communities across the country as an important source of income. Indeed, many have transformed their villages into processing sites for all kinds of minerals including heavy metals that are associated with poisoning of humans - lead, mercury, arsenic and cadmium. In a bid to separate the gold, the villagers grind the rocks, resulting in dust containing high levels of lead to settle on soil and other nearby surfaces, and in the process exposing the locals to the poison. Besides, many of the miners are themselves carriers of death. Some of them took home their dusty clothes and shoes contaminated with lead, which their innocent chil-

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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

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Lead is colourless, odourless and tasteless, making it an insidious killer. Besides death, the short-term effects of lead poisoning include acute fever, convulsion, loss of consciousness and blindness, while the long-term effects include anaemia, renal failure and brain damage in children, who are often the main victims. Some of them are left with severe handicaps in form of paralysis while others are afflicted with severe mental retardation and other health disorders.

Over the years, however, some interventions have largely reduced deaths from lead poisoning. The government and other international organisations have implemented measures to clean contaminated soil and water sources in the affected communities. Organisations like Doctors Without Borders (MSF) played a major role in providing medical care, conducting assessments, and assisting with environmental remediation. But as some recent outbreaks have shown, there are still challenges in preventing future incidents.

There is therefore need to regulate artisanal mining practices, and ensure safer methods are employed. Traditional institutions and local authorities have a responsibility to ensure that government directives are obeyed. The recent approval for the deployment of satellite technology to monitor mining sites nationwide will help in containing illegal mining practices. Communities must be stopped from digging their own graves.

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.

NEMA’S PUSH TO AVERT ANOTHER FLOOD TRAGEDY

As the rains intensify across Nigeria, the fear of another devastating flood season looms large. From the urban sprawl of Lagos to the riverbanks of Lokoja, Maiduguri to Makurdi, flooding remains one of the country’s most predictable but poorly mitigated disasters. In 2023 alone, over 676 lives were lost and more than 2.4 million people were displaced across 33 states, according to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). But this year, a stronger sense of urgency is taking shape—driven by the renewed momentum at NEMA under the leadership of its Director General, Hajiya Zubaida Umar.

The alarm bells rang again last week after the Chad Basin Development Authority warned of the gradual release of water from the Alau Dam in Borno State. Without hesitation, NEMA’s Maiduguri Operations Office launched rapid assessments, dispatching field teams to monitor water levels across vulnerable locations, including Fori, Al Amin Daggash, Gwange, and Moro-Moro Bridge. Their findings were reassuring—water levels remained within safe bounds—but the agency is leaving nothing to chance.

“This is not the time for complacency,” said Zubaida Umar, during a recent emergency preparedness meeting in Abuja. “NEMA is operating on 24-hour alert, and our teams are fully mobilized across the country. We are committed to a proactive approach that saves lives before the first wave hits.”

Her words reflect a strategic shift in Nigeria’s disaster management philosophy—from reactive firefighting to forward-looking resilience planning. Surveillance is being maintained, early warning systems are active, and inter-agency coordination has been reinforced. These actions are part of what officials describe as a national pivot toward anticipatory disaster response.

Environmental experts say Nigeria’s flood vulnerability stems from multiple sources: poor urban planning, clogged drainage systems, illegal constructions on floodplains, and the accelerating impacts of climate change. But there are also structural failings. According to the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), at least 148 Local Government Areas are at high risk of severe flooding in 2025. These forecasts are no longer abstract warnings—they are blueprints for disaster unless acted upon.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) has cautioned that, without major adaptation measures, disaster-induced displacements in Nigeria could double by 2030. This grim projection underscores the critical role of institutions like NEMA in both emergency preparedness and public education.

This year, the agency has scaled up sensitization campaigns in riverine and high-risk communities, pre-positioned relief items in key states, and strengthened collaboration with State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs) to ensure faster local responses. Radio jingles, town hall meetings,

and media partnerships have all been deployed to increase community-level awareness.

What distinguishes the current leadership, however, is its emphasis on visibility and grassroots engagement. Umar’s frequent field visits and media briefings show a hands-on, people-centered approach—one that prioritizes early engagement over post-crisis response. “Preparedness is no longer an abstract term,” she told stakeholders recently. “It must translate into action, infrastructure, and trust at the community level.”

Yet, major challenges persist. Many state governments underfund their SEMAs, some local authorities ignore hydrological warnings, and illegal structures continue to spring up along waterways. Post-disaster rehabilitation is often delayed, weakening long-term resilience.

To make progress sustainable, experts are calling for tighter enforcement of environmental regulations, stronger legislative backing for disaster agencies, and a national budget that treats emergency preparedness as a frontline development issue—not an afterthought. While NEMA’s recent steps are commendable, systemic change requires a whole-of-government approach, from federal ministries to local councils. Abdulhamid Abdullahi Aliyu writes on disaster management, humanitarian response, and national development

BUSINESS WORLD

Despite repeated assurances and several intervention schemes introduced in the last 12 years of the power sector privatisation, Nigeria’s electricity metering gap remains stubbornly wide, with over 5.4 million active customers still without metering devices.

Data from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) revealed that more than 46 per cent of electricity consumers in the country remain unmetered, underscoring the persistent challenges in eliminating estimated billing and ensuring fair and accurate electricity charges.

According to the latest factsheet released by NERC for April 2025, only 6,274,936 out of Nigeria’s 11,700,422 active electricity customers are currently metered, translating to a national metering rate of 53.63 percent.

While some Distribution Companies (Discos) have made modest gains, the overall progress falls short of expectations given the scale of investments, both public and private, that have gone into metering projects over the years.

In the whole of April, a total of 77,634 new meters were installed, a figure consider insignificant compared to the millions of customers still subjected to the controversial estimated billing system. The persistent metering gap not only affects consumer trust but continues to fuel tensions between electricity providers and the general public.

A closer examination of the metering status across the 12 electricity Distribution Companies (Discos) indicated wide disparities in performance among the top three and the bottom three. Ikeja Electric (IE) led the top pack with a metering rate of

83.77 per cent, followed by Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) at 81.62 per cent, and Abuja Disco at 71.65 per cent. These three companies fell within what NERC classified as the “green zone,” indicating a relatively satisfactory metering performance.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, Yola Disco recorded the lowest metering rate at just 28.53 per cent. Other poor performers include Jos (29.33 per cent), Kaduna (33.35 per cent), and Kano (34.76 per cent), all of which have more than two-thirds of their customers still relying on estimated billing.

The data further showed that Benin and Ibadan Discos, despite having large customer bases, also fall within the amber zone with metering rates of 50.08 per cent and 48.96 per cent respectively. Enugu Disco is similarly placed with a rate of 46.26 per cent, while Port

Harcourt Disco reported a slightly better figure at 61.31 per cent.

However, THISDAY’s checks showed that the metering gap persists in spite of numerous governmentbacked efforts, including the National Mass Metering Programme (NMMP), which was launched in 2020 to bridge the shortfall in consumer metering.

The initiative, funded through the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), aimed to provide up to 6 million free meters to Nigerians over several phases. However, progress has been slow, often impeded by logistical delays, procurement bottlenecks, and a lack of sustained coordination between federal authorities and the Discos.

Consumer advocacy groups have called on the federal government and NERC to intensify efforts toward full metering, arguing that electricity remains one of the few utilities in Nigeria where consumers often pay for services not actually consumed.

They contend that the lack of meters hampers transparency, makes energy planning difficult, and leads to widespread consumer dissatisfaction.

But on several occasions, the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, although has repeatedly emphasised the urgency of bridging the metering deficit, has insisted that the efforts and acceleration of the current government in the sector have not been witnessed before now.

According to the minister, President Bola Tinubu’s administration has moved beyond mere rhetoric. “That’s why the Presidential Metering Initiative (PMI) was established. We plan to install over 10 million meters within the next five years, at least two million meters annually,” Adelabu said recently.

He added: “The target is to procure a minimum of 2 million

meters on annual basis for the next five years, that’s about 10 million meters, which we believe will completely eliminate the existing metre gap and billing will become transparent, it will become objective, and it will become fair and just to our people.”

In addition to metering, the NERC factsheet also shed light on customer service standards and complaints received by Discos across the country.

It showed that a total of 78,483 complaints were recorded in April, with metering issues accounting for 42 per cent, billing disputes representing 23 per cent, service interruptions contributing 9 per cent, and miscellaneous complaints comprising the remaining 26 per cent.

Dike Onwuamaeze

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has stated that realising Nigeria’s desire to achieve a $1 trillion economy in 2030 would require strategic transformation of the foundational structure of the Nigerian economy, particularly the industrial sector, and sustained annual GDP growth rate of 7.0 per cent.

This was stated by the Director General of MAN, Mr. Segun AjayiKadir, in his response to THISDAY’s question on whether Nigeria could achieve the projected $1 trillion economy in 2030.

Ajayi-Kadir said that achieving

$1 trillion economy by 2030 is ambitious but a technically attainable goal over the medium to long term.

He, however, said that “achieving this target is not a matter of arithmetic growth. It demands a strategic transformation of the economy’s foundational structure, particularly the industrial sector.

“With the newly rebased nominal GDP at $243 billion, reaching the $1 trillion threshold by 2030 would require consistent nominal growth between 12 per cent and 14 per cent annually (assuming currency stability), or real GDP growth between 6.0 per cent and 7.0 per cent per annum,

a figure that is nearly double the current real growth rate of 3.38 per cent recorded in 2024.”

Ajayi-Kadir also noted that the road to this milestone is fraught with structural bottlenecks that must be urgently addressed.

He pointed out that a growth path that merely expands the size of low-productivity sectors, such as informal trade and consumptiondriven services would only deepen inequality, reinforce economic vulnerability, and perpetuate jobless growth.

He, therefore, called on the federal government to make industrial transformation the anchor of Nigeria’s economic strategy.

“Achieving a $1 trillion economy is not simply about increasing output. It is about building an economy that works, that creates jobs, that competes, and that uplifts the majority. Without a strong, modern, and competitive manufacturing base, the $1 trillion goal may be a struggle that is measured only in numbers, but not in national prosperity,” he said.

He declared unequivocally that the credible path to a $1 trillion economy is prioritisation of an industrial-led development model.

“This requires a deliberate and strategic revival of industrial output, with a particular focus on high-value-added and exportable

manufactured goods, supported by unmitigated government patronage. Reliable and affordable energy supply must be central to this effort; without stable and cost-effective electricity, the manufacturing sector cannot thrive and contribute meaningfully to the GDP.

“Equally critical is the upgrade of core infrastructure such as transport networks, logistics systems, and broadband connectivity to support efficient production and regional trade integration,” he said.

He also said that “A coherent, investor-friendly policy environment across fiscal, trade, and monetary

domains are also essential to attract and retain long-term capital. Above all, Nigeria must boost productivity across strategic subsectors such as agro-processing, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and light engineering, where industrial linkages and employment potential are strongest.”

According to him, strengthening the Naira, curtailing inflation and ensuring inclusive and sustained growth are essential components of any credible path that would lead to the attainment of $1 trillion economy for Nigeria.

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Amid Collateral Hurdles, NCGC Seeks Collaboration

Nume

Ekeghe

The National Credit Guarantee Company (NCGC) has called for more collaboration by stakeholders in Nigeria’s financial ecosystem to close the country’s widening credit gap for Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), which is estimated to have excluded 80 percent of MSMEs from formal lending channels.

Managing Director of NCGC, Mr. Bonaventure Okhaimo, made the call in Lagos yesterday during the company’s inaugural Stakeholders’ Engagement Forum themed, “Unlocking Access to Finance Through Credit Guarantees and Strategic Partnership.” The forum brought together bank CEOs, development finance institutions (DFIs), microfinance banks, fintechs, and policy leaders to explore ways to improve credit access to MSMEs.

According to him, “Nigeria’s macroeconomic outlook reflects a steady trajectory toward inclusive and sustainable growth, driven by gradual reforms and sectoral diversification. Recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) shows a commendable Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth of 3.13 per cent in Q1 2025 after rebasing, a significant improvement from the previous quarters. This growth was supported by strong performance in the services and non-oil sectors, indicating the economy’s growing resilience amid inflationary pressures, rising interest rates, volatile exchange rates, and elevated energy costs that have significantly eroded the purchasing power of consumers and increased operating expenses for MSMEs and local manufacturers.”

He further stated: “The funding gap for Nigerian MSMEs is

Entrepreneur Highlights Smart Strategies for Shortlet Industry

The Chief Executive Officer, Dee One Luxury Apartments, Adedayo Adewumi, has listed some smart steps for entrepreneurs in the shortlet industry to remain afloat.

In a statement, he said entrepreneurs must start small but start smart adding, “My advice would be to start small but start smart. Don’t wait for everything to be perfect—begin with what you have, learn quickly, and iterate. Understand your market deeply, especially in dynamic sectors like hospitality and real estate.

“Also, never underestimate the power of customer service; in the shortlet business, how you treat your guests determines your brand reputation. Finally, build resilience—there will be tough times, but consistency pays off.”

He, however, urged the federal government to as a matter of urgency, address the challenges hindering entrepreneurship development in the country.

He added that infrastructure, policy instability, and power supply still remain some of the biggest challenges hindering entrepreneurs in the country.

He also noted other challenges include a lack of internet access, saying that road networks are still unreliable in many parts of the country, and increasing operational costs.

“Additionally, entrepreneurs struggle with regulatory uncertainties, multiple taxation, and a lack of access to credit facilities. These factors combine to make scaling a business much more difficult than it should be,” he added.

The government should prioritise ease of doing business, streamline registration processes, reduce multiple taxation, and improve access to affordable financing.

According to him, Infrastructure investments in power, broadband internet, and transportation would directly reduce the burden on entrepreneurs.

Comms/e-Business

Asst.

Asst.

Correspondents

KayodeTokede

ebere

He also urged the federal government to engage more with local entrepreneurs when designing policies.

Highlighting some of the ways entrepreneurs can raise funds, he said funds could be raised through personal savings, family/friends, cooperative societies, microfinance banks, and government grants.

“The key is to start lean, build traction, and seek external funding with proven results,” he stressed.

According to him, his business has grown into a structured shortlet brand, using digital tools for bookings, guest verification, and automation.

staggering, as an estimated 80 per cent of MSMEs lack access to formal credit due to unavailability of collateral requirements, high-risk perception from lenders, and the inflationary pressure leading to high borrowing costs that have historically stifled MSMEs growth.”

Delivering the keynote address, Chief Consultant at B. Adedipe

Emmanuel Addeh in a buja

TotalEnergies has reported a 23 per cent fall in second-quarter earnings, the French oil major’s worst performance in four years, as lower oil and gas prices outweighed a rise in production

Sunday Ehigiator

In a bold move to deepen its commitment to youth development and sustainable innovation, LAPO Microfinance Bank has announced its sponsorship of two high-impact, youth-centred events, TEDxZamaru and TEDxEnugu. The bank, renowned for its inclusive financial services and grassroots outreach, said the sponsorship aligns with its strategic support for the United Nations

Associates Limited, Dr. Biodun Adedipe, backed the emergence of NCGC as a long-overdue response to Nigeria’s credit market challenges.

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Kano Region, and the Kano State Ministry of Land and Physical Planning have reached an agreement to resolve legal disputes that had stalled the Kumbotso–Rimin Zakara 330kV transmission line project.

The meeting, held last week was convened by the ministry to address litigation surrounding land ownership and compensation,

Peter Uzoho

Chairman of Geometric Power Limited and former Minister of Power, Prof. Barth Nnaji has called on the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to reconcile the worrying disparity in gas-topower prices which is contributing to the challenge in gas supply to power generation companies (Gencos).

Nnaji made the call in Lagos while speaking at the Oriental News Nigeria 2025 Conference, with the

He said: “Back in Nigeria, about 20 years ago, I was part of a team working on the Financial System Strategy (FSS 2020). We examined how to deepen the credit market to support Nigeria’s economic growth. Our analysis showed that properly calibrated credit policies could grow Nigeria’s economy by as much as $963 billion and position it among the world’s top 20 economies by 2020.

and power sales.

Adjusted net income fell to $3.6 billion for the three months to June 30, down from $4.7 billion a year earlier and $4.2 billion in the first quarter, Reuters reported.

Chief Executive of the company, Patrick Pouyanne, told analysts

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4 (Quality Education), Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities).

According to a statement signed by the Director of Marketing and Corporate Communications at LAPO, Oluremi Akande, the two TEDx events, independently organised offshoots of the globally renowned TED conference, will serve as powerful platforms for young Nigerians to exchange bold

“Today’s event reminds me of that aspiration. It represents a renewed effort to reimagine

on a call that the company could maintain shareholder returns in a low oil price environment, as several expressed concern about a sharp increase in the company’s net debt.

Brent crude prices have fallen 20 per cent from a year ago,

ideas, drive community-based innovation, and inspire collective action for national development.

He said, “Our partnership with TEDxZamaru and TEDxEnugu reflects our enduring commitment to youth development and nation-building. We are investing in platforms that shape future leaders and entrepreneurs, people who will drive Nigeria’s economic and social progress. For LAPO MfB, this represents more than a sponsorship; it is a deliberate

credit’s role in Nigeria’s industrial development. In evaluating credit market strength, we often measure the ratio of private sector credit to GDP. Sadly, Nigeria’s performance in this regard remains poor. Among the top 10 African economies, Nigeria ranks at the bottom in terms of private sector credit to GDP.”

reaching $67.9 per barrel in the second quarter of 2025, as members of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and allies such as Russia started to unwind output cuts of 2.17 million barrels per day in April.

effort to foster a knowledge-driven society anchored in innovation, empowerment, and shared prosperity.

“This isn’t the bank’s first foray into the TEDx ecosystem. LAPO MfB previously supported TEDxLagos and TEDxUNIMED, where its involvement helped amplify conversations around inclusive finance, gender equity, and the role of innovation in driving grassroots transformation.”

which had significantly delayed progress, a statement by the TCN’s General Manager, Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, said.

Under the terms of the agreement, the Kano state government will compensate individuals whose cases remain under legal consideration and provide alternative land to affected parties. The resolution removes the final obstacles to the project’s completion.

“TCN is optimistic that the

agreement will accelerate work on the transmission line, which is critical to improving electricity infrastructure and supporting industrial development in the northern parts of the nation.

The development is a major breakthrough in the ongoing efforts to further strengthen the national grid,” it stated.

Meanwhile, TCN has announced that a vandal was electrocuted while attempting to vandalise transmission Tower 34 along

theme: “Integrating Nigeria’s Gas Potential into Strategic Energy Transition Initiatives”.

Specifically, he urged NERC and NMDPRA to reconcile the gap between the regulated $2.42 per million British thermal units (MMBTU) domestic gas price for power generation and the prevailing market rate of $2.70 to $9.

He advocated a more realistic tariff framework that aligns with actual gas procurement costs for electricity Gencos.

Nnaji noted that while the official domestic gas price for power generation was formerly pegged at $2.42 per MMBtu, the

NMDPRA revised this down to $2.13/MMBtu effective April 1, 2025.

He, however, noted that in reality, Gencos often source gas from the open market where prices range from $2.70 to as high as $9/MMBtu, depending on supply constraints and contract terms.

“Because most electricity is generated using gas, sourcincos depend heavily on sourcing this gas from the open market, the disparity between the regulated and actual prices continues to strain the sector,” Nnaji said.

He warned that the pricing gap is worsening the liquidity challenge

the Nkalagu-Abakaliki 132kV Transmission Line in Ebonyi state.

“The body of the electrocuted vandal hanging on the tower has since been brought down. TCN has consistently warned against such acts, emphasising the potentially fatal consequences of tampering with transmission infrastructure, which carries high voltages critical to national development and poses significant risks to health and safety,” the company stated.

in the power sector, contributing significantly to the N1.1 trillion electricity subsidy recorded in the first half of 2025 and the N5 trillion debt owed Gencos by the federal government. According to him, the gasto-power benchmark being below market realities places an unsustainable burden on power producers.

He also emphasised the need for more cost-reflective electricity tariffs, explaining that the current pricing structure fails to cover the operational and maintenance costs of Gencos, particularly as many critical inputs are imported.

Emmanuel Addeh in abuja

Oluwaseun Fagesi

In the world of industrial mining, human capital is often the most unpredictable resource. When Segilola Resources Operating Limited (SROL), Nigeria’s premier exploration and gold mining company, acquired its flagship project—the Segilola Gold Mine (Nigeria’s first industrial-scale gold mine) —there was no ready-made workforce waiting. The Nigerian mining industry, still in its infancy, lacked a critical mass of mining-specific trained personnel, frameworks, and even benchmarks.

Yet today, the Segilola Gold Project employs over 2125 people, 99 per cent of whom are Nigerian, including women operating heavy-duty mining equipment. How did a company operating in a mining talent-scarce environment build a resilient, skilled, and inclusive workforce from scratch? This is a story about intentionality in recognising that in new or underserved sectors, talent doesn’t come ready-made—you must grow it.

SROL’s due diligence before acquiring the Segilola Project painted a clear picture:

• There was no significant mining talent pool in Nigeria.

• Mining education and technical training were limited.

• Gender diversity in mining was almost nonexistent.

However, walking away wasn’t an option for SROL. Instead, the company adopted a resolute long-term perspective, understanding that the only way forward was to build the team that Nigeria’s mining future needed.

SROL’s strategy was centered on three key pillars:

1. Leverage Transferable Skills

Many Nigerians had experience in the oil and gas sector, which had matured over decades. SROL saw an opportunity to transition this workforce into mining roles—with the right training.

2. Create a Culture of Understudies

Every expatriate expert at the Segilola mine has a Nigerian understudy. This ensured immediate knowledge transfer and long-term continuity.

3. On-the-Job and External Training Programs

Over 5,870 training hours were delivered

“With new exploration licenses and a long-term focus in Nigeria, SROL isn’t done building. It’s now scaling this human capital model across future projects. The model—grounded in training, inclusion, local governance, and strategic patience—is not mining-specific. It can be adapted for any emerging sector in Africa, from renewable energy to agritech.”

in 2024 alone. Youth internships and empowerment programs ensured that training reached both current staff and future pipeline candidates.

Unlike typical top-down recruitment models, SROL embedded cultural governance leaders from its host communities directly into the hiring process. community leaders were notified of vacancies as part of the recruitment committees and were encouraged to nominate qualified indigenes, especially youth and women. This led to over 576 competent host community members employed—positively exceeding the employment quotas stipulated in the Community Development Agreements (CDA).

This trust-first approach didn’t just meet employment quotas, it transformed local communities into active talent partners, not just passive beneficiaries, empowering them and fostering optimism for the future. Mining has traditionally been maledominated, but SROL knew that innovation couldn’t thrive in a homogenous workforce. A deliberate initiative saw women trained as dump truck drivers and eventually pit controllers. Several of them had backgrounds in teaching, catering, or nursing—with no prior

exposure to mining.

Gender parity was not just a goal; it was a requirement built into shortlisting protocols: every interview shortlist had to include at least one female CV. These actions were not symbolic. They disrupted expectations, attracted untapped talent, and demonstrated that diversity and safety can coexist underground.

By 2024, the data spoke for itself:

• 1,934 employees, with 99% Nigerians and 27 % from host communities

• Four women transitioned into heavy equipment operator roles

• Zero industrial strikes or lockouts

• Two awards (one national and one international) recognising excellence in labour Internally, a recognition program celebrates contractor excellence in fair labour practices, safety, and performance—embedding the right behaviors across the value chain.

With new exploration licenses and a longterm focus in Nigeria, SROL isn’t done building. It’s now scaling this human capital model across future projects. The model—grounded in training, inclusion, local governance, and strategic patience—is not mining-specific. It can be adapted for any emerging sector in Africa, from renewable energy to agritech.

Four ways to build teams where none exist.

• Leverage adjacent sectors: Look for transferable skills in related industries and close gaps with training.

• Build shadow teams: Pair every expert with a local understudy to embed knowledge from day one.

• Share ownership with communities: Involve local governance and cultural structures in hiring and workforce planning.

• Don’t fear inexperience—train for it: Hire for attitude and potential, then invest in upskilling.

Too often, companies entering nascent sectors search for ready-made solutions—trained people, firm policies, robust institutions. But the truth is, pioneers don’t inherit structure—they build it.

SROL’s journey shows that investing in people early—and inclusively—not only secures a license to operate but builds a legacy of local empowerment and business resilience. For any company entering an emerging or underserved industry, this isn’t just an HR strategy.

It’s your strategy!

• Oluwaseun Fagesi, MCIPM CPHRCanada, is the HR Manager Segilola Resources Operating Limited

From Ground Zero to Gold Standard: How SROL Built a World-Class Team in Nigeria’s Burgeoning Mining Sector Pan

Peter Uzoho

Pan Ocean & Newcross Companies recently gathered stakeholders in the Nigerian oil and gas industry in Lagos to celebrate and bid farewell to the company’s former Director and current Chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), Alhaji Kida Musa for his contributions to the organisation. Musa served the Pan Ocean/ Newcross Group for 15 months as the director of technical and sustainability after his retirement from TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited in 2020.

Speaking at a send-forth ceremony organised to honour Musa, Chairman of Pan Ocean & Newcross Companies, Dr Festus Fadeyi, who recalled the beautiful experiences he had with Musa when he first joined the organisation, thanked his ex employee for making significant contributions that led to landmark transformation in the company.

While congratulating Musa on his recent well-deserved appointment as NNPCL chairman, Fadeyi said Pan Ocean experienced growth amid a complex yet dynamic energy landscape marked by regulatory changes, asset consolidations, and

industry-wide transition.

“Congratulations on your well-deserved appointment as the chairman of NNPC Limited. Thank you for all your time and contribution. Please remember that you will always be a valued part of our team from now and forever,” he said.

In her remarks, the Company Secretary/Legal Adviser at Pan Ocean, Mrs Folashade Alli, appreciated Musa for his impactful service and contribution to the company during his short stay with them.

Describing their ex director as an extraordinary man, Alli said Musa immediately established the group technical and sustainability committee at Pan Ocean and immediately transformed the way reporting was done at the board.

She narrated: “Mr. Kida, when he joined Pan Ocean and Newcross Group of Companies, less than 15 months ago, even though his stay has been less than 15 months, I would say it has been very impactful.

“He is such an extraordinary man. When he immediately came on board, the first thing he did was to establish the Group Technical and Sustainability Committee and immediately transformed the way reporting was done at the board.”

Genesis Energy, a pan-African clean energy infrastructure development and asset management company has announced a strategic partnership with Global Citizen, an international advocacy organisation, as a campaign policy partner on its ‘Scaling Up Renewables in Africa Campaign’.

The landmark agreement— formalised during an exclusive high-level event in London— underscores Genesis Energy’s commitment to the African energy sector by driving investment and policy change for cleaner communities, industries, and a

sustainable future, while also supporting global efforts to attract investment in clean energy and bolster energy access.

Through this partnership, Genesis Energy and Global Citizen will collaborate on a unifying, energy-focused campaign that accelerates access to clean energy and amplifies climate solutions.

Leveraging Global Citizen’s advocacy platform and extensive global network, the campaign will engage government leaders, donors, civil society, and private sector actors to mobilise resources and shape policy that enables a just energy transition in Africa.

Speaking on the significance

of the partnership, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Genesis Energy, Mr. Akinwole II Omoboriowo, emphasized the company’s unwavering commitment to accelerating sustainable clean energy access and the company’s mission of “Lighting Up Africa One Community at a Time”.

He remarked: “At GENESIS Energy, we believe clean, reliable energy is the foundation of economic growth, social progress, and environmental sustainability. Through our partnership with Global Citizen, we are raising awareness and championing clean energy’s vital role in closing

Africa’s energy gap.” Co-Founder and Chief Policy, Impact, and Global Affairs Officer, Global Citizen, Michael Sheldrick. stated, “Access to clean, reliable and affordable energy is essential to driving economic development and remains a critical lever in the global fight to eradicate extreme poverty.

“Together, with GENESIS Energy we’re committed to supporting an energy transition that delivers returns - creating jobs, scaling private capital, driving policy change and expanding access to reliable power for millions.”

Peter Uzoho

Eterna Plc, a prominent Nigerian oil and gas downstream player has reported a strong financial turnaround for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, with a 71 per cent increase in revenue, growing from N183.3 billion in 2023 to N313.6 billion in 2024, despite a volatile operating environment.

The company disclosed these results at its 32nd Annual General Meeting (AGM), where shareholders also ratified important board appointments and strategic resolutions to support future growth.

It said gross profit rose by 136 per cent to N39.9 billion, while profit before tax stood at N4.48 billion, marking a significant recovery from the N11.9 billion

pre-tax loss recorded in the previous year.

Shareholders at the AGM commended the company’s resilience and strategic direction, expressing confidence in the leadership team and its ability to drive sustainable growth in the evolving energy landscape.

Speaking during the meeting, Chairman of Eterna, Dr. Gabriel Ogbechie, highlighted

the company’s performance as evidence of its operational discipline and strategic focus.

“Our 2024 performance is a direct result of decisive leadership, strong execution, and the unwavering commitment of our people. As we deepen our footprint across energy value chains, we remain guided by a strategy that prioritizes growth, resilience, and innovation,” he said.

Peter Uzoho

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

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

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

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

GUIDE TO DATA:

Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 25 Jujy-2025, unless otherwise stated.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS

PRESIDENT TINUBU, OYEBANJI ENDORSED FOR SECOND TERM...

Abdullahi: ADC Will Restore Opposition’s

Credibility Amid Economic Missteps

National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Bolaji Abdullahi, yesterday, criticised theBola Tinubu administration’s economic direction, warning that recent fiscal decisions had led to catastrophic consequences for Nigerians.

He defended the ADC emergence as Nigeria’s leading opposition force, countering criticisms of division and lack of structure within the newly formed coalition.

In an interview on Prime Time, Abdullahi questioned the rationale behind the government’s simultaneous removal of fuel subsidies and devaluation of the naira, two decisions he said had worsened the cost of living crisis without adequate safety nets for Nigerians.

“Whatever this government is doing, regardless of intentions, is not working,” Abdullahi stated, adding, “The combination of subsidy removal and naira devaluation has been catastrophic.

The ADC’s fundamental question is: how does a policy affect the livelihood and quality of life of Nigerians?”

He further criticised the National Assembly for acting as a rubber stamp to President

Tinubu’s financial requests, noting that previous loans have shown little in terms of developmental outcomes.

The publicity secretary also took aim at the influence of international financial institutions on Nigeria’s policy direction.

“Who exactly is deciding the direction of the Nigerian economy? Is it those elected by Nigerians or global organisations like the IMF, who have no electoral mandate here?” he asked, referencing recent IMF critiques of Nigeria’s currency policies.

According to Abdullahi, the ADC formation weeks ago has already started to change Nigeria’s political dynamic by offering genuine opposition in a space where he claims the PDP and other parties have failed.

“Before the ADC, government could get away with anything. Other opposition parties had either abdicated their responsibilities or been compromised. We are building a party that’s not just about 2027, but about providing an enduring democratic alternative.”

He dismissed concerns about high-profile personalities within the ADC coalition vying for leadership, including Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, and Atiku Abubakar.

“Why is the APC worried on

our behalf? We are focused on building democratic structures and will handle internal leadership questions transparently and democratically.”

Addressing questions about ADC’s lack of physical infrastructure compared to the established PDP and APC, Abdullahi argued that electoral strength now lies in

grassroots mobilisation, not just brick-and-mortar offices.

“Structures are about people. One dedicated party agent at the polling unit can mobilise

We’re Mulling Proposals by ECONEC That Require Actions to Implement, Says INEC

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has told the ECOWAS Network of Electoral Commissions (ECONEC) that it was considering all the recommendations it proffered after the 2023 general election that requiredadministrative action to implement.

This it said was being mulled while waiting for the conclusion of the ongoing constitution review on aspects that require legislative intervention.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu disclosed this in Abuja yesterday when the ECONEC Post-Election Mission to Nigeria led by Davidetta Browne-Lansanah paid a courtesy call at the commission’s headquarters.

He recalled that ECONEC made 37 recommendations for

Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger Get NonECOWAS Membership of GIABA

Alex Enumah

Despite exiting the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger might be admitted any moment from now as Non ECOWAS members of the regional body’s Inter-Governmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA).

This followed the endorsement of their applications by the GIABA Ministerial Committee (GMC) at its 2nd Extraordinary session which held in Accra, Ghana.

A statement issued yesterday by the region’s anti-money laundering agency, said the GMC agreed to recommend applications to the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS, through

the ECOWAS Council of Ministers, for their consideration and approval.

The GMC is the principal decisionmaking organ of GIABA, comprising the Ministers of Finance, the Ministers of Internal Affairs or Security, and the Ministers of Justice of each GIABA member state.

Following ECOWAS leaders opposition to the sacking of democratically elected government in the three countries by the military, in 2023, the military junta in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger had in January 2024, announced their intentions to quit ECOWAS, and subsequently established a confederation called the Alliance of Sahel States.

Although ECOWAS granted them a six-month grace period to reconsider their decision, they however withdrew formally from

ECOWAS on January 29, 2025, after a one-year notice period.

However, shortly after exiting ECOWAS, Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger brought applications for Non-ECOWAS membership of GIABA.

Meanwhile, the DG has expressed optimism that Nigeria and Burkina Faso will exit from the FATF grey list in October 2025.

The DG further informed the GMC of the admission of the Financial Intelligence Units of The Gambia and Sierra Leone into the Egmont Group in July 2025; the invitation by FATF to the Federal Republic of Nigeria to sit as its guest member from October 2025 to October 2026; as well as the celebration of GIABA’s Silver Jubilee anniversary scheduled to hold in Monrovia in November 2025.

consideration by seven critical institutions and stakeholders in the electoral process.

Yakubu stressed that of these recommendations, 13 were addressed to INEC while 24 required action by other institutions and stakeholders such as the National Assembly, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), civil society organisations, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and political parties under the auspices of their umbrella body, the Nigeria InterParty Advisory Council (PAC).

“Of the 13 observations specifically addressed to INEC, the Commission has considered all the recommendations that require administrative action to implement while waiting for the conclusion of the ongoing legal review by the

National Assembly on aspects of the recommendations that require legislative intervention.

“The Commission has prepared a detailed response on each of the 13 observations, most of which are already contained in our 142 recommendations for electoral reform which resulted from wide-ranging consultations with critical institutions and stakeholders, a copy of which is already available on our website.

“The review report as well as the main 2023 general election report and other relevant documents, are also available on our website. Nevertheless, hard copies of these reports and documents have been included in your document bags for this meeting,” he said.

Earlier, Browne-Lansanah noted that the joint post-2023 election follow-up and needs assessment mission to Nigeria was a peerto-peer review of their presence

during the 2023 elections, but more importantly, the recommendations that they offered, which were outlined in a report of our visit here. She noted: “We have come to see how best INEC has implemented those recommendations. We anticipate that during our engagement, we may be able to understand reasons for some of the issues that came out of the 2023 elections and how INEC was able to navigate in a way that it has found answers to those challenges that abound during the 2023 elections.

“We see this mission as a lesson learned, not just for INEC Nigeria, but also for our own institutions, our own election management bodies, because as we know, problems or challenges that are faced by any election management body are often faced by election management bodies throughout our region.”

IGP: Success of Modern Policing Rests Not Just on Operational Effectiveness But Trust

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, yesterday, said the success of modern policing rested not only on operational effectiveness but also on public trust.

Speaking at the decoration ceremony of officers recently elevated to the prestigious ranks of Assistant Inspectors-General of Police and Commissioners of Police, Egbetokun stressed that trust was earned when the police were seen as approachable, responsive, and respectful.

Urging the newly promoted senior officers to embody the highest ideals of the policing profession, the IGP stated: “Let your leadership reflect courage, discipline, empathy, and,

above all, integrity.” Egbetokun added: “Let your presence inspire confidence. Let your commands be havens of security. Let your leadership be felt not in fear, but in reassurance. I urge each of you to embody the highest ideals of our profession.

“Let your leadership reflect courage, discipline, empathy, and, above all, integrity. At a time when our society calls ever louder for justice and accountability, we must be seen to uphold these values with unwavering resolve.

“It falls to you, as senior officers, to set the tone—by your conduct, your decisions, and the standards you demand of those under your command.”

The IGP noted that the promotion

system today was firmly anchored on fairness and performance.

Noting that with elevation came exposure, Egbetokun said, “You will be watched more closely than ever before. Your decisions, your conduct—both in and out of uniform—will be weighed and measured not just within the Force but by the public at large.” He told them to lead with transparency, respect for the rule of law, and a deep sense of ethical responsibility.

“Your actions will shape perceptions of the Force and influence the course of policing in Nigeria. I charge you also to embrace innovation, to deepen collaboration with our sister agencies, and to actively engage with the communities you serve,” he said.

Funmi Ogundare

dozens more. That’s how Peter Obi performed strongly in 2023 without a traditional structure. We are building a political movement of Nigerians who are fed up.”

L-R: Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele; Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji; Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and Deputy Governor, Ekiti State, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, during a rally to endorse President Bola Tinubu, and Governor Biodun Oyebanji/ Deputy Gov Monisade Afuye for second term in office in Ado Ekiti…yesterday

in Abuja

Best graduating Ph.d student...

Enugu Electricity Commission Insists Only States Can Make Laws on Power Distribution

Says denying states federation account-funded electricity subsidy unlawful Maintains tariff reduction based on rigorous, transparent process

emmanuel addeh in Abuja

The Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission (EERC) yesterday responded to a public notice issued by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), questioning its power tariff slash for Band ‘A’ customers in the state from N209/ kWh to N160 kWh, effective August 1 this year.

EERC accused NERC of “misconceptions and misplaced focus,” arising from the failure to understand the fundamental changes introduced into the power sector through the 2023 constitution amendment, passage of the Electricity Act 2023, and emergence of the sub-national electricity market.

The clarification was made by the Enugu electricity regulatory body in a rejoinder it published on its website, saying that NERC’s notice was intended to secure an exclusive right to determine end-use tariffs in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).

“The question is whether in a fully decentralised electricity supply industry, multiple tariff regimes are not reasonably possible? Furthermore, where a state like Enugu State has assumed full regulatory oversight over its intrastate market, is it precluded from issuing a tariff order for that market?” it asked.

EERC added that while NERC

referenced relevant provisions of the constitution to highlight the powers of the National Assembly and the House of Assembly to make laws on the sector, the federal agency left out the fact that the National Assembly is not authorised to make laws on the matter of distribution of electricity.

It added: “On this constitutional matter, it should be noted that under Paragraph 14(b) of Part II of the Second Schedule to the Constitution, only states have the constitutional right to make laws with respect to the distribution of electricity.

“By virtue of Paragraph 13 of the Part II of the Second Schedule to the Constitution, the National

Assembly is restricted to making laws with respect to ‘the generation and transmission of electricity in or to any part of the Federation and from one State to another State’. Electricity distribution was deliberately excluded,” the state agency maintained.

EERC also said that NERC’s declaration that sub-national governments must “holistically incorporate the wholesale costs of grid supply to their states without any qualification or deviation in their design of tariffs for end-use customers” or be prepared to intervene by way of subsidy as a misapplication of NERC’s authority over the national grid.

It argued: “The jurisdiction over

Adamawa Govt Slams Atiku over Flooding as Governor Fintiri Confirms 23 Lives Lost

Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, yesterday, visited the communities of flooding which occurred on Sunday following a downpour that began around 1:00 a.m., and led to the tragic loss of 23 lives and the destruction of properties worth millions of naira.

Addressing victims at the temporary camp at Aliyu Mustafa College Yola, after inspecting several affected areas, Fintiri announced that the state government would establish a technical committee to assess the extent of the damage.

Describing the situation as tragic

and devastating, the governor sympathised with families who lost loved ones and property, assuring them that the government would support efforts to rebuild and relocate their homes.

Meanwhile, the Adamawa State Government has said it was dismayed by comments from certain leaders, including former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, suggesting that the government was not proactive in addressing the flooding incident..

In a press release by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Humwashi Wonosikou, the government added that, “We

take exception to the insinuation that Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri’s administration neglected the people.

“Contrary to these claims, our government has invested heavily in providing storm drains and waterways, knowing the state’s propensity for flooding.

“We urge the public to recall our swift response to the Borno State flooding disaster, where we were among the first to provide cash and logistical support.

“When the Sunday flood struck Adamawa, the Deputy Governor Prof Kaletapwa Farauta promptly mobilised government agencies,

Northern Group Counters Kwankwaso’s Claim of Northern Neglect Under Tinubu

Folalumi alaran in Abuja

The Northern Youth Frontiers (North West Zone), has refuted recent comments by Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), alleging that the administration of President Bola Tinubu has sidelined the North in its development agenda. In a statement, the North West Coordinator of the group, Saminu Tukur, described Kwankwaso’s claims as misleading and politically motivated, aimed more at triggering controversy than fostering construc-

tive discourse. Tukur further encouraged young Northerners to support efforts that foster unity, growth, and transparent governance, rather than being used as tools in political battles.

He said: “In light of recent statements made by Rabiu Kwankwaso, the leader of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), regarding the alleged neglect of Northern Nigeria by the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Northwest Zone of the Northern Youth Frontiers feels compelled to clarify the facts and set the record straight.

“We recognise the importance of political discourse in our democratic process; however, it is crucial that such discussions are grounded in truth and constructive engagement rather than unfounded claims.

“Kwankwaso’s assertion that the Northern region is being overlooked in terms of development is not only misleading but also appears to be a strategic maneuver aimed at prompting the government to disclose the extensive array of projects that have been initiated or completed in the North under President Tinubu’s leadership.

including the military and marine police, to the scene.

“Under her leadership, and with the governor’s directives, the State Emergency Management Agency was tasked with providing urgent relief to affected citizens.

“We must correct the narrative that the government was silent while others acted. The truth is, the government spearheaded the response efforts,” it stated.

the national grid and generating plants licensed by NERC is distinct and separate from benefits under the electricity subsidy programme of the federal government. The question whether states that have established their electricity markets should benefit from the electricity subsidy programme is an issue of constitutional importance.

“In a federation such as Nigeria, it does not lie with NERC to make this determination as it summarily declared in the notice. The subsidy programme is funded from the Federation Account established under section 162 of the constitution. This account belongs to the three tiers of government in Nigeria and benefit therefrom is determined by the constitution.

“To suggest that a state could be denied a benefit from the Federation Account, such as the electricity subsidy programme, because that state has exercised its constitutional right to establish a sub-national electricity market will be subversive of the constitution.

“The unstated aim of the notice seems to be all about preserving for NERC the exclusive right to determine end-use tariffs in the NESI, and for the states to simply adopt and apply them, notwithstanding the provision of their state laws.

“Under this arrangement, states that accept this usurpation will continue to enjoy the national subsidy

on the generation tariff. And the states that do not will be denied the benefit, and told that they could go and generate their own electricity, even though the SubCos are entitled to a share of the Successor Discos’ minimum offtake obligation from the grid,” EERC argued.

Besides, it faulted NERC’s claim that its new tariff order was arrived at “largely by reducing the current average generation tariff of N112.60 per kWh to NGN45.75 per kWh with an assumption of subsidy component, a difference of N66.85 per kWh.” It said: “EERC states unequivocally that the reduction in the tariff for Band A customers under the Tariff Order was not based on any populist sentiment, or reckless bluster.

“Rather, it is a result of a rigorous and transparent process of tariff determination during which costs and other relevant data from MainPower Electricity Distribution Company Limited were carefully reviewed and analysed based on the provisions of the Enugu State Electricity Law 2023, and EERC’s Tariff Methodology Regulations 2024.”

A major regulatory face-off had recently erupted between NERC and EERC over control of electricity tariffs within the state. The tension reached a peak in July 2025 after EERC unilaterally slashed the tariff for Band A customers in Enugu from N209 to N160.40 per kilowatt-hour.

Lufthansa: Why We Off-loaded Passengers, Luggage on Abuja-Frankfurt Flight

German mega carrier Lufthansa Airlines has explained why it off-loaded passengers and all checked-in luggage from its flight originating from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja to Frankfurt last Wednesday, July 23, 2025, when part of the airport runway was closed for maintenance.

In a letter the airline wrote to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), it disclosed that it knew that part of the airport was under repair because it had earlier received notice to airmen (NOTAM) to that effect, but it had to offload 45 out of the 200 passengers on the flight and all the checked-in luggage to lighten the aircraft for safety reasons because of rainfall

and tailwind.

“We knew about the NOTAM but we made a decision to reduce our load for safety reasons because of the rain and tailwind,” the airline told FAAN.

This confirmed FAAN’s insistence that it issued NOTAM to all airlines operating at the airport and all the international flights operated from the airport as designated, but the runway maintenance was completed on July 24, the following day and the full length of the runway has been at the disposal of airlines. FAAN also disclosed that on the same July 23, British Airways operated Boeing B777 at 0816hrs with 245 passengers and 23crew; Qatar Airways operated Boeing B787 at 1403hrs with 251 passengers and 12 crew; Ethiopian Airlines

operated Boeing B777 LR aircraft

L-R: Wife of the 1st Vice President, CIBN, Mrs Alabi; 1st Vice President CIBN, Mr Dele Alabi FCIB; President/Vice Chancellor Babcock University, Prof Ademola S.Tayo; Wife of the VC, Prof Grace Tayo; President/Chiarman of Council CIBN, Prof. Pius Deji Olanrewaju, FCIB, at the doctoral hooding ceremony of Babcock University where Dr Dele Alabi was awarded the best graduating Ph.D student with CPGA 4.91 out of 5.0…. recently

Chinedu eze

daji sani in Yola

Lagos APC Members Storm Assembly Complex, Call for Removal of Chairman

Segun James

Barely two weeks after the Lagos State Local Government election, scores of the members of the Lagos State Chapter of the All Progessives Congress (APC) yesterday stormed the State House of Assembly Complex, calling for the removal of the state chairman of the party, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi over the handling of the election.

The aggrieved members

drawn from all local government areas of the state, demanded that ‘Ojelabi Must Go’ and ‘We Want Fresh Leadership,’ for the party.

The protest drew a significant security presence, with police officers stationed around the Assembly Complex to prevent any breakdown of law and order.

Speaking with journalists, leader of protesters, Falae Segun, said members are not happy with the management of the

H1 2025: Transcorp Power Posts

N205.8bn

Revenue, Declares

N11.25bn

Interim Dividend

Transcorp Power Plc, one of the power subsidiaries of Nigeria’s leading listed conglomerate, Transnational Corporation Plc, has announced its unaudited financial results for the halfyear (H1) ended June 30, 2025, demonstrating a robust growth and rewarding shareholders with interim dividend payout.

The power generating company declared N205.8 billion revenue in H1 2025, up by 52 per cent from N135.4billion in H1 2024.

The 52 per cent increase in revenue was primarily driven by N150.8 billion energy delivered in H1 2025, a growth of 31 per cent from N93.37billion reported in H1 2024, and capacity charge of N54.99billion in H1 2025, about 31 per cent increase over N42.07billion

reported in H1 2024.

For the H1 2025 under review, the company declared N58.7 billion profit before tax, about 15 per cent increase over N51 billion declared in H1 2024, while profit after tax stood at N44.05 billion in H1 2025, representing an increase of 20 per cent from N36.8 billion reported in H1 2024.

The H1 2025 performance was driven by enhanced generation capacity and improved operational efficiency, a reflection of Transcorp Power’s continued investment in infrastructure and service delivery.

Consistent with its commitment to delivering shareholder value, the company is rewarding shareholders with an interim dividend of N11.25billion, equivalent to N1.50 for every 50 kobo ordinary share, subject to appropriate withholding tax.

affairs of the party in Lagos State.

He added Ojelabi and his team should take an honourable exit and allow the party to breathe in Lagos State.

He said: “We are exercising our democratic rights to be heard as guaranteed by the Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“Our party in the state has been under rudderless leadership since Pastor Ojelabi took over in 2021. “Party members have been pushed to the limits after

condoning his excesses, engaged him to work for the larger interest of the party, prayed for him and even reported him to the leaders.

Niger LG Boss Suspended over Request for Autonomy Enforcement

Laleye Dipo in Minna

One week after dragging the Niger State Government to court over the tenure and funding of local government, the Chairman of Chanchaga Local Government Area of the state, Mr. Aminu Ladan, has been suspended from office.

Ladan had dragged the state

government and four others before a Federal High Court in Abuja seeking the enforcement of the Supreme Court judgment on funding and tenure of local governments.

The matter came up for mention last Friday and was sent to the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) for assignment to a vacation Judge. Ten out of 11 councillors in

the local government council yesterday signed the suspension letter which was released to the media in Minna, the state capital.

Only the majority leader, Mr. Ibrahim Isah Gommna from Minna South ward, did not sign the suspension letter.

The chairman was accused of among others gross misconducts and mismanagement of councils

resources, failure to present to the legislative council the statement of income and expenditure of the council as provided by the law. In addition, he was said to have violated laid down protocols for the sale of land in the local government area as well illegal award of contracts, incompetence, and non-adherence to the rule of law.

Govt Needs to Align HR Mgt with Policies for Effective Implementation

Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in abuja

The President of the Chartered Institute of Human Resources and Strategic Management (CIHRSM), Dr. Tein Jack-Rich, has called on the government to align their policies with human resources management (HRM) for effective

implementation.

With the theme, “Policy Making and Implementation Gaps and Bottlenecks: The HRM Lens,” Jack-Rich made the call at the institute’s investiture of doctorate fellows, fellow members and other inductees, in Abuja.

Represented by a Council member, Sam Orovwuje, Jack-

Rich said:”You need the human resource unit, particularly in the public sector, with a view to aligning policy initiatives in line with the implementation and execution of those policies.”

He noted that “there are a lot of gaps, and these bottlenecks are due to bureaucracy, lack of capacity, and human resource misalignment.”

According to him, the institute is aimed at building an accountable and result-oriented public service.

“Today’s gathering is more than ceremonial. It is a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to building a result-driven, accountable, and strategicallyaligned public service for Nigeria.”

Political Heavyweights Endorse Tinubu, Oyebanji for Second Term in Ekiti

Gbenga Sodeinde in ado ekiti

Amid a crowd that is unprecedented in Ekiti State’s political history, leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), political leaders and stakeholders as well as non-partisan groups, yesterday endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Biodun Oyebanji for second term in their respective offices.

FRSC Accused of Mounting Roadblocks to Delay Christian Worshippers in Abuja

Michael Olugbode in abuja

Worshippers in part of Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory have complained about their harassment while observing their right to worship.

The worshippers, who spoke to journalists in Abuja, complained that some operatives of the Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Corp have

Segun Awofadeji in Gombe

Gombe State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a platform adopted by the coalition of opposition leaders in the country has promised to provide level playing ground to all politicians that joined it.

State chairman of the party, Danladi Ya’u, made

continually harassed Christian worshippers at the Dutse, Kubwa axis of Abuja.

They alleged that the operatives mount a road block between 8.00a.m and 10.00a.m when worshippers are in a rush to attend the early morning church services. They complained that the FRSC officials force car owners to park for checking thereby causing avoidable

the promise in an interview with journalists shortly after the state stakeholders’ meeting held yesterday in the state.

According to him, all aspirants who want to run for elective offices under the platform would be given equal treatment. “We will make sure we give each and every contestant fair and level playing ground when the time of contest

delays and lateness to services on Sundays.

They equally alleged that repeated appeals to the FRSC officials about the weekly harassment of worshippers on Sundays have been ignored.

When our correspondent went to the area to verify the veracity of the allegation, it was observed that motorists were stopped for what seems a routine check.

comes,” he said.

The chairman explained that the meeting was to bring together the state stakeholders and encourage them to support the coalition leaders in building the party.

Ya’u noted that the stakeholders include the party officials, candidates and aspirants in the last elections in the state.

Rights Activist Condemns Attack on FRCN FM Station in Kogi

Ibrahim Oyewale in lokoja

Endorsed alongside Oyebanji, at the well attended event held at the Ekiti Parapo pavilion, AdoEkiti, was his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye. The Governor of Ondo State Governor, Mr. Lucky Ayedatiwa, former Governors of Ekiti State, Niyi Adebayo, Ayodele

Fayose and Segun Oni, as well as the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, took turns to eulogise President Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji and went ahead to endorse them for re-election in the 2026 Ekiti governorship election and the 2027 presidential election.

The ranks of the ruling APC, also swelled at the event, with the defection of former Senate Minority Leader and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Biodun Olujimi, former Ekiti State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Obafemi Adewale (SAN) and a member of the state Assembly, Hon Babatunde Omolayo, together with their supporters.

A Lokoja, Kogi State-based Human Rights Activist and Executive Director, Conscience for Human Rights and Conflicts Resolution (CHRCR), Idris Miliki, has condemned the attack on Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) Prime FM in Lokoja by suspected gunmen. This was disclosed in a statement signed by Idris Miliki and made available to journalists in Lokoja yesterday. He called on the state government to pay more attention to media professionals and institutions in the state.

of Prime FM on July 26, 2025, is worrisome and condemnable.

“We have observed with kin interest, the neglect of media institutions in Kogi State in the past years which is very unfortunate.

According to him, “The state government needs to pay more attention to media practitioners and their institutions in Kogi State. The attack and vandalism

“Media institutions in Kogi State deserve more than the uncared attitude of the immediate-past and current government, as we are dissatisfied and it is disappointing.

MFM Rewards Blind Students for Academic Excellence in Abuja

The Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries(MFM) International Headquarters Annex Wuye, presented the Dr. Daniel Kolawole Olukoya Award of Excellence to the best graduating students of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) School for the Blind , Jabi, Abuja. Through its ‘We Care Ministry’ MFM has intensified its humanitarian initiative by rewarding the overall

best graduating student of school, Mr. Godwin Lazarus, with a brand new Laptop.

Cash gifts of N100,000 and N50,000 went to second best student, Miss Aishat Isah and Master third best, Master Alfred Yahaya, respectively.

Also, all the graduates were given digital walking aids with censor. Presenting the awards on behalf

of the General Overseer, Dr. Daniel Kolawole Olukoya, the Senior Regional Overseer (SRO) , Pastor Edwin Etomi, said that the church was fulfilling God’s mandate in accordance with James 1:27, which enjoined believers to give to the needy, put smiles on their faces, ameliorate their sufferings as well as shine the Light of Jesus Christ to the world.

Kayode Tokede

ADC Chairman Promises to Give Fair Treatment to Contestants in Gombe

Super Falcons Dominate CAF’s 2024 WAFCON Best XI with Four Players

Duro

Ikhazuagbe

Nigeria’s all-conquering Super Falcons that defeated hosts Morocco to win the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) for a record 10th time in Rabat last Saturday have dominated the tournament’s Best XI team.

Of the 11 players listed by CAF, Super Falcons provided four with semifinalists South Africa’s Banyana

Banyana having three players in the squad.

Hosts Morocco and Ghana had two players each for the Best XI of the 2025 edition concluded last Saturday with Super Falcons smiling away with the new WAFCON trophy and the improved $1million star prize. Tournament’s Best Player, Rasheedat Ajibade, led the Nigerian quadruplet. The Super Falcons Captain was the Most Valuable Player

in three of the six matches played by Nigeria en-route winning the trophy. She provided the leadership and inspiration that Falcons needed to win the trophy in Rabat. It therefore was not surprising that she was named the Player of the Tournament.

Next is Esther Okoronkwo, the ubiquitous, vibrant and sleek forward who was instrumental in all Nigeria’s three goals in the final

against Morocco. She converted Falcons first goal from the penalty spot in the 64th minute with the hosts leading with two goals in the first 24 minutes of the epic final.

Okoronkwo’s unselfish diagonal pass to Folashade Ijamilusi resulted in Nigeria’s equaliser while her free kick from outside Morocco’s box was scrambled into net by Jennifer Echegini for the winning goal for Super Falcons. She was indeed the

Galatasaray to Unveil Osimhen on

Saturday August 2

All things been equal, Victor Osimhen, is expected to be unveiled in Istanbul on Saturday shortly before Galatasaray take on Lazio in a high-profile friendly at the RAMS Park.

Yesterday, news out of Turkey confirmed that Galatasaray Vice President, Abdullah Kavukcu, is expected to fly into Naples, Italy with Osimhen to finalise the paperwork for the €75million permanent transfer of the Nigerian striker to Istanbul.

According to Turkish news outlet, Fanatik, the 26-year-old Super Eagles forward, will be presented to Galatasaray fans after the final paperworks that will see the Super Lig champions pay €40 million upfront, with the remaining €35 million due by the end of 2026. The agreement includes a 10% sell-on clause for Napoli and a two-year restriction preventing an immediate return to the Italian Serie A. Osimhen, who spent the 2024/25 season on loan at Galatasaray, made an indelible mark — scoring 37 goals and delivering 8 assists in 41 matches.

The Nigerian star’s performances powered the Yellow-Reds to a league and cup double, rising quickly to cult hero status.

Despite interest from Saudi giants Al-Hilal, who tabled a €160 million offer, Osimhen opted to continue with Galatasaray, a decision that further endeared him to the club’s

supporters.

One of the most expensive departures in Napoli’s history, Osimhen becomes the biggest ever transfer for Galatasarayand Turkish football.

Still, a return to Galatasaray remains a shock to the transfer market with Osimhen previously believed to be on the radar of some of Europe’s biggest clubs including Arsenal, Manchester United and

Chelsea.

Osimhen’s arrival will further strengthen Galatasaray’s attacking options ahead of the new season, and fans are expected to fill RAMS Park to witness the club’s record signing step onto the pitch in red and yellow once more on August 2.

He has has already missed a number of Galatasaray’s preseason friendlies including the Turkish Champion’s 3-1 victory over Cagliari.

NPFL Summons Enyimba Over Ideye’s Poor Welfare Allegation

Says clubs will forfeit three points for assaulting referees Remo to host Rivers Utd in 2025/26 season’s

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has summoned the Coordinator of Enyimba International Football Club of Aba to appear before it on Thursday to respond to the allegations of poor treatment of players of the professional league football club by the management by former Super Eagles player, Brown Ideye.

The NPFL Chairman, Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye, issued the directive yesterday while fielding questions from the media during

the Annual General Meeting of the NPFL and the unveiling of the fixtures for the 2025/26 Match-day 1 fixtures.

Ideye had painted a harsh and embarrassing financial realities faced by players at Enyimba, alleging that the former CAF Champions League winners, never had regard for the welfare and motivation of professional footballers in Nigeria’s topflight league.

He alleged that Enyimba players received as paltry as N7,000 per day—an amount that could barely cover basic expenses.

“At Enyimba, we were receiving N7,000 a day. Sometimes it’s N8,000, sometimes not even N7,000. That’s not for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. That’s for the whole day,” Ideye said. Elegbeleye said since Ideye’s allegation against Enyimba was already in the public domain, the Nigerian league outfit, Enyimba was duty bound to also state its own version of accounts.

“Brown Ideye is my very good friend. I would not be happy if they are treating him badly. Brown Ideye is a pride to us for coming to play in the Premier League

real trojan in the Nigerian forward. The nomination of hard-as-nail diminutive right back, Michelle Alozie, in WAFCON Best XI didn’t come to aficionados of women’s football in the continent as surprise. From the group stage to the final game, Alozie played very crucial roles in Nigeria’s defence. She extinguished the Moroccan forward spearheaded by Ibtissam Jraidi and Ghizlane Chebbak. Alozie even got on the scorer’s sheet in the semifinal, as

her long-range stoppage time goal gave Nigeria 2-1 victory over South Africa and the ticket to the final. Africa’s Best Goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie retained her place in the continent’s Best XI. She kept a clean slate in the group stage till the semifinal, conceding just one goal in five matches. Even with Morocco leading 2-0 in the final, Nnadozie kept her cool, giving hope to her teammates with her commanding role from the rear.

...Ekong, Iwobi, Lookman, Three Other Eagles Splash N24m on Falcons

Six Super Eagles players have donated a combined total sum of N24 million to the Super Falcons following their record-extending win at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final last Saturday in Rabat, Morocco.

The gesture was announced on Monday by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) in a media release that praised the players’ initiative and unity across Nigeria’s senior national teams.

The donors include; William Troost-Ekong (team captain), Olaoluwa Aina, Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Leon Balogun and Joseph Ayodele-Aribo.

The Super Eagles stars made personal contributions in honour of the Super Falcons’ stunning 3–2 comeback victory over hosts

Morocco in the WAFCON final on Saturday — a win that earned Nigeria a record-extending 10th continental title.

The contribution adds to the growing list of accolades and recognitions showered on the women’s team for their historic performance, which has reignited national enthusiasm for women’s football.

Earlier yesterday, the players were handed 100,000USD each in addition to N10million each by the 36 states governors. They were also conferred with National Honours (OON) in addition to a three bedroom house by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during a Presidential reception at the Villa. The 11-team officials were also each rewarded with 50,000 USD and houses in addition to national Honours.

D’Tigress Overcome Hardfighting Mozambique to Qualify for Q’finals

Defending champions of the FIBA Africa Women’s AfroBasket Championship, Nigeria’s D’Tigress snatched their second win of this 2025 edition against Mozambique to qualify for the quarterfinals.

The victory in this one of the most anticipated matchups in women’s African basketball fixture, was not without hard labour as Mozambique proved why they are one of the favorites for the title here in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

For most of the 40 minutes, both teams traded blows. However, the reigning champions eventually prevailed, 60-55, advancing to the quarterfinals as Group D winners with a perfect 2-0 record.

Credit is due to Nigeria, who

brought their experience and desire to remain undefeated in 26 Women’s AfroBasket games dating back to 2015. As the saying goes, big players step up in big moments, and that’s exactly what Ezinne Kalu, the 2019 Women’s AfroBasket Most Valuable Player (MVP), did. She displayed all her skills to avoid what would have been an astonishing upset.

Ezinne Kanu gave everything she possibly could. She turned out Mozambique’s main disruptor, finishing with game-highs of 16 points and five steals.

Erena Emerges SFA’s Vice-president, Reiterates Commitment to Squash Devt in Africa

Adamu Ahmed Erena has reaffirmed his dedication to the advancement of squash across Africa following his election as Vice President (West and Central Africa) of the Squash Federation of Africa (SFA).

Erena, a former President of the Nigeria Squash Federation (NSF), made the pledge on Saturday during the federation’s virtual Annual General Meeting (AGM), where delegates from over 12 African countries participated.

“I remain committed to fostering squash development in Africa and deepening regional cooperation through the SFA platform.

This is a shared journey of growth,” Erena said after securing 77.8 per cent of votes to defeat incumbent NSF President, Boye Oyerinde.

The election saw two Nigerians go head-to-head for the regional vice presidency, with Erena emerging as the clear winner.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwean businessman, Lucky Mlilo, was re-elected unopposed as President of the SFA. The 60-year-old, who made history in 2021 as the first Black African to hold the office since the SFA’s establishment in 1992, will now serve another four-year term.

Super Falcons Captain, Rasheedat Ajibade (right) with the WAFCON trophy. She’s one of the four Nigerian players in the CAF’s 2024 WAFCON Best XI squad released yesterday

Victor Osimhen... to be unveiled by Galatasaray on Saturday in Istanbul

poST-ELEcTion FoLLow-Up/nEEDS TEAm AnD inEc...

L-R: Chairperson, National Elections Commission (NEC) Liberia, Mrs Davideth Lansanah and Chairman, (INEC) Prof Mahmoud Yakubu presenting a souvenir to the Leader of ECOWAS NETWORK OF ELECTORAL COMMISSION (ECONEC) during a Post-Election Follow-up/Needs Team and INEC in Abuja ... yesterday

ABATI

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Super Falcons: Queens Of Africa

Nigeria’s senior female soccer team, the Super Falcons are the Queens of Africa given their superlative, dominant and creative performance, their resilience, and agility at the just concluded Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in Morocco, July 5 – 26. Since the inception of the tournament in 1998, the Super Falcons have won 10 times out of the 13 times that the event has held: 1998, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2016, 2018, and now 2024, missing the trophy only thrice in 2008, 2012 - won by Equatorial Guinea, and in 2022 - South Africa. Ahead of the 2024 WAFCON in Morocco, the manager of the team, Justin Madugu had declared that they were going on a Mission X, that is to win the trophy for a record 10th time. Their victory is the accomplishment of that dream, and a reaffirmation of Nigeria’s supremacy in female football. But the road to that moment was in no way easy. The Falcons beat Tunisia, 3- 0 in their opening match, and further defeated Botswana 0-1 to get to the competitions’ knock-out stage. The next match against Algeria was a goalless draw, but the Falcons had enough points to go through to the quarter finals, having led Group B. Their next opponent was the Copper Queens of Zambia, who had led Group A, and were supposed to be something of a threat. The Super Falcons trounced them 5 – 0. Then they got to the semi-finals to face defending Champions, and a rival team, the Banyana Banyana of South Africa. It was a nail-biting, nerve-wracking, tension-soaked match. The South Africans were determined. Nigeria scored through a spot kick in the 45th minute converted by team captain Rasheedat Ajibade. In the 60th minute, the South Africans also levelled the score through a penalty kick making the match 1- 1. It looked as if the game was heading for extra time, until Michelle Alozie scored in the 94th minute turning a pass from Esther Okoronkwo into a dramatic win for the Falcons. The final match on Saturday, July 26, was no less stunning. The Falcons were trailing 2-0 down by the end of the first half, in front of a crowd of Moroccans solidly behind their home team. It was a different ball game, however, in the second half. The Falcons returned to the pitch fighting as if their lives were at stake. Esther Okoronkwo scored against the Moroccans in the 63rd minute, Folashade Ijamilusi followed up with another goal in the 71st minute, and in the 88thminute Jennifer Echegini, settled the matter with a Nigerian goal that was celebrated across the country. It was an amazing comeback, reminiscent of the Miracle of Damman in 1989, when during the quarter final match between Nigeria’s U-20 football team, the Flying Eagles came back from four goals down to beat the USSR team and went on to win the match subsequently on penalties, 3-5. Women’s football has grown in Africa, and Nigeria’s Super Falcons are the Queens. It is instructive that the individual and collective talent of the Super Falcons is now being rated against the capability of the Super Eagles. Failure is an orphan; success has many parents. This is in part the trite lesson of the Miracle of Rabat. The Falcons returned home yesterday, touching down

at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja at approximately 2:26 pm. to a well-appointed celebration in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, in an open-bus parade across the city before presenting the trophy to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, his wife and other senior government officials at the Presidential Villa. The President had told the Super Falcons that he was waiting to receive the trophy, and he played his part by ensuring that bonuses and allowances for the Falcons were duly paid, but this team didn’t play for money. They played for glory and they brought honour home. They brought history home too, creating a significant moment of celebration. They are Champions, the tenth time. They are also the first to win the newly redesigned WAFCON trophy. They won a title prize of one million dollars. The ladies were exceptional on the field of play: four of them made it to the WAFCON Best XI list. Rasheedat Ajibade was crowned Player of the Tournament, having won Player of the Match thrice, Esther Okoronkwo was Player of the Match in the final against Morocco, Chiamaka Nnadozie was recognized as Goalkeeper of the Tournament having conceded only three goals. Michelle Alozie was also a standout star. The team manager, Justin Madugu, from. Adamawa state, was recognized as the Coach of the Tournament. He was just appointed an interim coach of the Super Falcons in September 2024, and now he has proven that he is a man of pedigree. Other members of the team were just as brilliant: Asisat Oshoala (who says she is not retiring by the way, and nobody should carry fake news), Rinsola Babajide, Chinwedu Ihezuo, Osinachi Ohale, Folashade Ijamilusi, Chioma Okafor. Two members of the team - Ashleigh Plumptre, and Chioma Okafor deserve special praise. Plumptre is a British-Nigerian, Chioma Okafor’s mother is from Malawi. At a time when the likes of Kemi Badenoch and Favour Ofili are rejecting Nigeria, these two ladies opted to stand up for Nigeria. President Tinubu showed a nation’s appreciation by bestowing the National Honour

of OON on the Super Falcons and the entire technical team. He also gave a three-bedroom apartment in Abuja to each of the players and the technical crew and the Naira equivalent of $100, 000 (N153 million) to each of the 24 players and $50, 000 to the 11-man technical crew. Great. But can we possibly extend this honour to those who won the WAFCON nine times earlier and are no longer in the Super Falcons team? They deserve to be appreciated too. The South African team won the fair play award for their on-and-off-field behaviour as well as respect for opponents and officials. They were composed. They were disciplined. They certainly deserve the recognition, but the spirit of sportsmanship that was generally demonstrated at the tournament should be remarked upon and underlined. During the Nigeria-South Africa semi-final, Gabriela Salgado, South African winger was injured in the 87th minute and had to be stretchered off the field, and rushed to the Mohammed VI University Hospital where she underwent surgery in the left leg. The entire Falcons team visited Salgado, the following day at the hospital and presented her with a signed Nigerian jersey and a statement expressing solidarity and wishing her speedy recovery. Salgado also received solidarity messages from Ghana’s Black Queens, CAF, other teams at the tournament, and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. This show of humanity is noteworthy. There are perhaps lessons that male footballers can learn from women footballers both in Africa and worldwide, and the Libyan Football Federation in particular which maltreated the Super Eagles in October 2024 has lessons to learn too. There may have been instances of on-pitch fights and intense altercations in women’s football but they are relatively less frequent. Football should not turn into war by other means, which is why it is shocking that after the WAFCON, Morocco has now reportedly lodged a protest with CAF questioning the nationality of two Nigerian players: Ashleigh Plumptre and Michelle Alozie. Morocco wants Nigeria to lose the title. They

don’t have a case. They were beaten fair and square. Plumptre’s grandfather is from Lagos, Nigeria; Alozie’s parents are Nigerians. Nigerians born and raised abroad have a right to Nigerian citizenship under Section 25 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria.

CAF deserves commendation for organizing a successful 2024 WAFCON, with the quality of officiating, deployment of technology and Morocco for being good hosts (let them not ruin that though by lodging frivolous and vexatious complaints against Nigeria). The weekend that just passed was altogether, a special moment for women’s football, with the WAFCON final played at Rabat on Saturday, followed by the Euro 2025 final between Spain and England in Basel, Switzerland on Sunday. While the Super Falcons were arriving Abuja yesterday, the Lionesses of England were also touching down in London to a similar heroes’ welcome. They had successfully defended their European title on Sunday, beating Spain on penalties, 3-1. They would have an open-bus parade on Tuesday after they were received by the Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner at No. 10. There were anxieties and doubts about the capability of the Lionesses to defend their European title. Many wrote them off. Mary Earps and Fran Kirby had retired a few weeks before Euro 2025. Millie Bright also withdrew from the selection. When the Tournament began, England lost their opening game to France. But as if it was a fairy-tale unfolding, they went on to beat the Netherlands and then, Wales. During the quarter-final against Sweden, the Lionesses were two goals down but luck was on England’s side. They went on to win on penalties. During the semi-finals against Italy, they were also 1-0 down, until Michelle Agyeman scored an equalizer in the 96th minute, and Kelly Chloe put in the winner for England in the 119th minute. Spain led 1-0 in the final match on Sunday, but England still came back to win a penalty shoot-out 3-1. The English ladies were driven by determination, faith and belief. Hannah Hampton who kept the goal, emerged from the shadows of Mary Earps and saved four penalties for England during the tournament, two during the quarter final against Sweden and the other two during the final match against Spain, winning Player of the Match in both instances.

Michelle Agyeman was the Best Young Player of the Tournament. Each time she was introduced as a sub, the flow of the game changed. Lucy Bronze played with a fractured leg. At 37, she was the oldest player at Euro 2025, and yet she played for a total of 598 minutes. The Lionesses have given England what has been described as “the greatest achievement in English football” - the first time England has won a major trophy on foreign soil. The Lionesses are the Queens of Europe. Sarina Wiegman, the manager, has won two finals back-to-back reinventing the glorious days of Emma Carol Hayes, former manager of the Lionesses, who is now the head coach of the United States women’s national team. Wiegman has been a head coach in five successive European finals.

Super Falcons

PHOTO: JuLIuS ATOI